Where to see Buffalo in Namibia

Quick facts about Buffalo

Cape buffaloes (Syncerus caffer caffer), the only subspecies of African buffalo found within Namibia, are primarily confined to the Waterberg Plateau National Park and Zambezi Region, formerly known as the Caprivi Strip. Here, the diverse ecosystems of wetlands, floodplains and woodlands provide critical habitat for the species as, although they are well-adapted to semi-arid environments and able to tolerate high temperatures, they are also highly water dependent and will typically be found near rivers and floodplains.

Whilst Namibia’s buffalo populations have fluctuated significantly over the years, with numbers greatly reduced in the early 20th century due to overhunting and habitat loss, there is now thought to be a stable population of an estimated 4,000 individuals in country.

Our recommendations for sighting buffalo in Namibia

For the best buffalo sightings in Namibia, focus on the Zambezi Region, particularly along the Kwando and Zambezi Rivers. Bwabwata National Park and Mudumu National Park offer excellent viewing opportunities, especially during the dry season (May to October) when buffalo congregate near water sources, and early mornings and late afternoons remain optimal times for sightings as herds move to and from drinking spots.

In Bwabwata, the Buffalo Core Area hosts large herds, sometimes exceeding 300 individuals. Waterberg Plateau Park, while hosting a smaller population, provides a unique chance to see buffalo in a different habitat. Viewing buffalo during a boat safari or from a houseboat, such as one of the Chobe Princesses, offers a new and interesting perspective.