Epupa Falls - Kaokoland area, Namibia

In a country as renowned for its deserts as Namibia it is always welcoming to see places like Epupa Falls. The falls are located on the Kunene River, on the border of Angola and Namibia, in the Kaokoland area of the Kunene Region. The falls are regarded as a major attraction in Namibia, because of the largely unspoiled environment, with fig trees, baobabs, makalani palms, and the coloured rock walls that frame the falls. At the point of the falls the Kunene River has a width of approximately 500 metres, and the series of waterfalls are dropped over a range of 1.5km. The highest of the falls has a drop of over 37 metres. Being on the border of Angola means that this is also a popular tourist destination from that side of the border as well, although the falls are known as the Monte Negro Falls in Angola.

The town of Opuwo is the capital of the Kunene Region in north-western Namibia, and the trip from there to the Epupa waterfalls on the Kunene River is one of the easier Kaokoland adventures. The trip to the falls takes anywhere from 2 to 3 hours and generally a four-wheel drive is not required, unless of course you visit during the rainy season. The track is usually in an acceptable condition, but it is recommended that vehicles should have a good ground clearance because at places like Okongwati travellers will have to cross a riverbed, which can prove difficult otherwise. Just before you reach your destination at Epupa you will climb a hill, which, from the top has some truly enchanting scenery. Visitors are able to see the Kunene valley, with its palms and baobab trees lining the riverbed. In a dry environment like that in Namibia, it feels like discovering a piece of paradise. Epupa means falling water in the language of the Himba (Otjiherero). Even if the temptation to jump into one of the wonderful rock pools at Epupa becomes irresistible Visitors are warned to be very cautious as there are crocodiles in the river! It is not always possible to spot them. Recently some Himba children have fallen victim to the voracious reptiles.

The falls are also home to the Epupa Trails. These are marked trails that visitors can explore, giving them the opportunity to experience the attractive scenery, flora and fauna of the Epupa area in the company of a knowledgeable guide. The Kachira Trail takes 4 hours and finishes with a visit to a Himba settlement. The Crocodile Trail, also about 4 hours, runs along the Kunene River. And the shortest of the trails is the Epupa Trail. This trail concentrates on the waterfalls and only takes 1.5 hours. There is a small fee which benefits the local Himba community. Bookings can be arranged at the falls.