UPDATE: Susuwe Island Lodge was closed in August 2015 due to fire damage. We do not currently know when the property will be re-opened.
Susuwe Island Lodge is a charming lodge situated in the middle of Namibia’s little-visited Caprivi Strip, on the border that separates Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks. It occupies an enviable perch on a small island in the Kwando River, sheltered under a canopy of riverine trees, and overlooking vast wetlands and savannah plains. The Kwando River brings life to this verdant region, attracting big game and plentiful birdlife.
Susuwe is a small, discrete lodge, comprised of just six stone and thatch chalets, an open-air lounge and dining area, fire pit and, what is our favourite feature, an elevated lookout. Totally unpretentious, it has a relaxed, informal atmosphere. This isn’t to suggest that Susuwe is a basic lodge; the standard of accommodation is very high, and the service impeccable. Each guest chalet has a private deck, lounge and plunge pool. This extra personal space, combined with the small size of Susuwe, makes for a very intimate experience.
A mix of land-based and water activities are available at Susuwe Island Lodge. Game drives focus on Bwabwata National Park. With few visitors, Bwabwata is ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds, but the game is more limited than in other parks, such as nearby Chobe in Botswana. Expect to see large elephant herds, plenty of antelope, varied birdlife and, with some luck, predators such as lion, leopard and even wild dog. Sunrise and sunset boat cruises are a wonderful experience, but again, the game-viewing is fairly limited. We normally recommend that clients visit Caprivi as a relaxing coda to a longer safari incorporating Namibia’s more famous parks.
Accommodation
Just six guest chalets, constructed of stone and thatch and positioned overlooking the Kwando River and surrounding wetlands. Susuwe's chalets are very spacious, each with a large bedroom, separate lounge, en-suite bathroom, private deck and plunge pool. The décor is subtle and attractive. Amenities include overhead fan, hairdryer, mosquito nets, safe, and gauze screen doors. The bathrooms are equipped with flush toilets, dual washbasins, shower and bathtub with river view.
Dining
Meals are typically served al fresco on the outdoor deck overlooking the river, or under shelter in the thatched lounge and dining area. Breakfast is a simple continental spread, or a cooked breakfast if preferred. Lunch is often served out in the bush—a private picnic on the savannah is a marvellous experience. Dinner is a 3-course set menu, accompanied by a good selection of wines and spirits.
Facilities
Lounge and dining area
Viewing decks and elevated lookout
Fire pit
Private pool
Activities
Day and night game drives
River safaris
Bush picnics
Child Policy
Susuwe Island Lodge accommodates children aged twelve and over.
