Visit Impalila Island, Namibia
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Impalila Island lies in the middle of the Zambezi River, about 25 minutes from the confluence with the Chobe River.
About 12 kilometres in length and 6 kilometres in width, it is one of the largest islands in the area.
Local culture
The island is inhabited and there are many small fishing and farming villages complete with schools, churches and tiny shops. As many people come to the island from Botswana there is a small immigration office in a hut on the south side of the island.
Climb a baobab tree
The island interior is forested with baobabs, waterfigs, knobthorne, mopane, pod mahogany and star chestnut trees. On the river banks you find jackalberries and the Chobe waterberry tree. In the middle of the island there is a particularly old and large baobab tree which is possible to climb (however, this is extremely dangerous as the 'ladder' consists of nails sticking out of the tree trunk and there are no safety ropes – it is entirely at your own risk). If you make it to the top you can see the point where the four countries of Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia meet.
Wildlife of Impalila Island
Surrounding the island, the area is similar to that found in the northern part of the Okavango Delta where deep water channels are lined with papyrus and there are quiet lagoons covered in waterlilies. While elephants and buffalo are sometimes seen near and on the island, they are more commonly seen beside the Chobe River. Hippo and crocodile can be seen in the waters and there is spectacular birdlife. African skimmers nest on the exposed sandbanks and reed cormorants dry their wings on the papyrus while various kingfishers hover about the water to find food.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Impalila Island by calling one of our Namibia specialists on 01993 838 525
Accommodation choices for Impalila Island
We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Impalila Island. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
Pangolin Voyager Houseboat
The Pangolin Voyager provides an exclusive and very personal experience from which to enjoy Chobe's beautiful surrounds and fabulous wildlife at a very relaxed pace.
Ichingo River Lodge
Small, intimate and very comfortable, the Ichingo River Lodge is tucked into the riverine forest and thus peaceful and secluded.
Ideas for experiencing Impalila Island
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Impalila Island, and which use the best local guides.
Cruising on the Zambezi Houseboat
When cruising on the Zambezi Voyager there are a number of activities that you can enjoy. Game viewing by boat into the Chobe National Park is a remarkable experience - where herds of elephants come down to drink together with other game such as buffalo, giraffe, kudu, waterbuck, puku, lechwe, and baboons.
Map of Impalila Island
Places & hotels on the map
Places near Impalila Island
- Chobe River Front less than 5 miles away
- Katima Mulilo 65 miles away
- The Caprivi Strip 100 miles away
- Mudumu & Nkasa Lupala National Park 114 miles away
- Popa Falls & Mahangu Game Park 234 miles away