Nkasa Rupara National Park
Zambezi
Nkasa Rupara National Park, formerly known as Mamili National Park, is located in the Zambezi region of Namibia and is the country's largest formally protected wetland area. The park encompasses the Nkasa and Rupara islands along the Kwando/Linyanti River, forming a crucial transboundary link for wildlife migration between Angola, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia. Its flat terrain is dominated by channels, reed beds, lagoons, and seasonally flooded areas that resemble the Okavango Delta ecosystem. The park supports a diverse array of flora including knob thorn, paper-bark acacia, and sausage trees on elevated islands. Fauna is abundant, with large populations of African elephants, buffaloes, hippopotami, and crocodiles, alongside rare antelope species like sitatunga and red lechwe. Over 450 bird species have been recorded, including vulnerable species such as the wattled crane and Pel’s fishing-owl. Seasonal fires, both natural and human-induced, play an ecological role in maintaining the park's grassland balance. Nkasa Rupara is part of the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, contributing to regional conservation efforts and local community benefits.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan to visit during the dry season for easier access and wildlife viewing. Access is via a dirt track off the B8 Trans-Caprivi Highway near Sangwali village. It is recommended to check local conditions as some areas, like Nkasa Island, may be inaccessible due to flooding. Booking guided tours in advance can enhance the experience and support local communities. Discounts may be available for community-based tourism initiatives.
Faits intéressants
- •Nkasa Rupara is Namibia's largest formally protected wetland area.
- •The park forms a transboundary wildlife corridor linking Angola, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia.
- •It hosts about 1,000 buffalo, the largest concentration in Namibia.
- •Approximately 450 bird species have been recorded, including several vulnerable and endangered species.
- •The park's ecosystem is similar to the Okavango Delta wetlands and is driven by periodic flooding.
- •Seasonal fires help maintain the balance between grasslands and woody plants in the park.
Histoire
The park was originally proclaimed as Mamili National Park on March 1, 1990, alongside Mudumu National Park.
In 2012, the Namibian government renamed it Nkasa Rupara National Park to reflect the names of two islands within the park's boundaries.
The former name referenced the Mamili family, traditional leaders of the Mafwe tribe.
Over time, the park has become integral to regional conservation and transboundary wildlife migration corridors.
Guide du lieu
Kwando/Linyanti River Channels
The park is characterized by narrow, permanently filled main river channels and several seasonally flooded channels, creating diverse aquatic habitats vital for many species.
Rupara Island
Accessible via dirt track, Rupara Island features higher ground with woody vegetation, providing habitat for various tree species and wildlife.
Wetland Vegetation and Termitaria Islands
Small islands formed by old termite mounds support diverse tree species including knob thorn, paper-bark acacia, and sausage tree, contributing to the park's unique flora.
Wildlife Corridors and Large Mammals
The park serves as a vital corridor for large mammals like elephants and buffalo moving between Namibia and Botswana, supporting significant populations of these species.
Birdlife Diversity
Home to over 450 bird species, including rare and endangered birds such as the wattled crane and Pel’s fishing-owl, making it a prime destination for birdwatching.