Kaokoland (Kunene Region)

It is not included in most tourist itineraries, but that is a large part of its appeal. With its stunning landscapes, desert elephant population and cultural experiences with the iconic Himba people, Kaokoland (Kunene Region) tours have a lot to offer.

Wide open spaces across rugged terrain, with beautiful waterfalls at Epupa and Ruacana along the Kunene River. The Ruacana Falls count amongst the largest found in Africa and the Epupa Falls are probably one of the most beautiful. This alone could justify visiting the Kaokoland. Further inland, the Kaokoland is home to a variety flora and fauna despite the harsh environment found here. Scattered across the valleys and dry riverbeds are desert elephants which can sometimes walk up to 200 km to find water. Both they and black rhinos are free roaming and can be tracked and viewed in various parts of the region, as can the elusive desert lions. Easier and more frequent wildlife sightings found here are zebra, springbok, oryx and giraffe. To say their numbers in the Kaokoland are bountiful would be a lie, the region is sparsely populated and the main appeal here is the fantastic landscapes. But wildlife can be found in the Kaokoland, you just need to know where to look.

You can explore the Kaokoland on guided lodge tours, guided camping tours and even on self-drive tours in your own rental car.

The term Kaokoland was given by the Apartheid government and after Independence was replaced by the name Kunene Region in 1992. However, in day-to-day life, the term Kaokoland is still commonly used. The name Kaokoveld strictly speaking refers to an ecosystem on a stretch of coastline; however, it is often used interchangeably with the name Kaokoland.

The Kaokoland is also great 4×4 territory that will challenge any vehicle as much as the driver. The treacherous Van Zyl’s Pass leading into the Marienfluss Valley is possibly the most famous of the passes. However, not all the roads in the Kaokoland consist of mountain passes. You will also encounter normal dirt and gravel roads, which you can sometimes drive for hours without encountering another living soul. What you are rewarded with for driving along the Kaokoland’s roads are amazing panoramic vistas, uninhabited and stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Accommodations are rather limited here, compared to other parts of the country. But those accommodations which are in the Kaokoland will provide you with all the comfort you need and are located in a stunning natural setting. Along the Kunene River, you have a choice of either staying at fantastic safari lodges or camping on one of the beautiful campsites. This part of the Kaokoland is green and lush, in stark contrast to the rest of the region and shade can be found under the baobab trees and makalani palms. The regional capital, Opuwo, is a popular and convenient stop and a good place to restock your supplies. If you are planning to stay for the night, keep in mind that the Opuwo Country Lodge’s infinity pool boasts one of the best views you will find anywhere in Namibia. Further south, in the settlement of Sesfontein, you will also find only a limited number of accommodations and campsites. Amongst the lodges is the Fort Sesfontein Lodge, rebuilt according to the original Fort Sesfontein, which was built by the German Schutztruppe in 1896 in an effort to curb poaching.

Travelling through the Kaokoland, you will encounter several Himba settlements along the way. These iconic and statuesque semi-nomadic people continue to largely resist the encroachment of the western world. The Himba are best known for the red ochre that they use to braid their hair and protect their skin from the harsh sun. Himba women wear ornate hairstyles, which along with jewellery made from iron, copper and shells makes them striking to look at and a popular motive for many photographers. On Kaokoland tours, you have the chance to witness the traditional Himba lifestyle at several cultural villages and living museums, many of which can be incorporated into our itineraries.

The Kaokoland is a region waiting to be discovered by those who are looking to explore a region that lies off the beaten track. By travelling through its desolate valleys and hills you can awaken the adventurer in you and soak in not only amazing and uniquely beautiful landscapes but appreciate the wildlife and the people who inhabit this fascinating land.