Ichingo River Lodge

About Ichingo Chobe River Lodge

Nestled beneath a canopy of trees on the secluded Impalila Island in Namibia, Ichingo Chobe River Lodge offers an intimate river safari experience surrounded by the spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife of the Chobe River. With its peaceful setting, personalised hospitality and excellent fishing opportunities, the lodge is an ideal choice for couples, families and small groups looking to experience the natural beauty of this remarkable corner of southern Africa.

Accommodation comprises just eight spacious, air-conditioned Meru-style safari tents, combining the romance of canvas living with the comforts of a hotel suite. Each tent features an en-suite bathroom with shower and a private balcony overlooking the surrounding landscape. The lodge also has a dedicated family tent, with separate sleeping areas and bathrooms for adults and children.

The main lodge features a comfortable lounge, welcoming bar and an open-air dining area where guests can enjoy their meals in a relaxed riverside setting. An outdoor swimming pool and viewing deck provide the perfect place to unwind between activities, watch the river and take in the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Days at Ichingo are centred around the Chobe River, with opportunities to experience the region's remarkable wildlife and birdlife, enjoy river safaris and discover some of the area's excellent fishing. The drier winter months, from May to October, generally bring larger concentrations of game to the riverbanks, while the summer months, from November to April, welcome migratory birds and bring the landscape to life. Fishing is rewarding throughout the year, with techniques varying according to the season.

Located close to the borders of Botswana and Zambia, Impalila Island offers a distinctive setting for exploring the Chobe region. Access to the lodge is by boat from the Botswana side of the river, adding to the sense of adventure and seclusion.

Whether you're seeking a relaxing riverside escape, memorable wildlife encounters, a family adventure or a dedicated fishing getaway, Ichingo Chobe River Lodge offers a warm and intimate base from which to experience the Chobe River.

Good to know

Reasons to choose Ichingo

Comfortable safari-style accommodation.
You’ll sleep in comfort and style in one of eight large air-conditioned Meru safari tents with en suite bathrooms and private balconies. Our family tent allows your kids to enjoy the adventure of sleeping in their own tent, while you’re right next door.

Tiger Fishing

The first choice for tiger fishing If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know there is excellent tiger fishing through the summer and winter.

All-inclusive experience

Benefit from an utterly hassle-free holiday with all meals, drinks and recreational activities included.

Direct river access

The lodge’s lounge, bar and open air-dining room are set above the flowing waters of the Chobe River with direct access to the river, so you can experience life right on the river’s edge.

Your day, your choice

Enjoy tailormaking your own itinerary – each tent has its own allocated boat and guide.

Diversity of experience

You’ll enjoy a wide variety of experiences with something to suit everyone. Hop on a tender river safari boat to get up close to some of the stunning wildlife, check off over 450 birds on a guided birding safari, or go on land and visit Impalila Island’s 2000-year-old Baobab tree.

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Facilities at Ichingo

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Children and Families

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge welcomes children of all ages.
Children 0 to 3 years are accommodated on a complimentary basis when sharing with two adults.
Children aged 4 to 12 years will receive a 50% discount on the applicable adult rate.
Children aged 13 years and older are charged the applicable adult rate.

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is equipped with 1 family tent which can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children aged 12 and under.
The family tent is subject to availability at time of booking.

Please note that no babysitting services, separate activities and/ or menus are available for children.

Getting there

The lodge is located on the Namibian side of the Chobe River and it easiest to get there from the border at Kasane immigration

When arriving at the Kasane and Namibian Immigration Offices guests need to fill in the required immigration forms to gain access and departure permission from the relevant authorities. This process can take between 45 and 60 minutes to complete and needs to be considered in terms of pre-planning.

For non SADC members we suggest you pre-pay for your visa online before arrival. While you can pay there, if the payments system goes down... it can be a bit of a wait.

On arrival at the Kasane Immigration Office in Botswana a Ichingo Chobe River Lodge staff member will meet you and assist you in the formalities at passport control exiting Botswana and load your luggage into a tender boat.
From here you will travel by tender boat across the Chobe River to the Namibian Immigration Office.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen as there is a short walk to the immigration office.
This process can take between 45 and 60 minutes based on the amount of people entering and exiting the immigration offices. Once you are stamped into Namibia you will be transferred to Ichingo Chobe River Lodge.

Collection is from 13h00 on day of arrival
Drop off is from 08h30 on day of departure