Top Attractions in the Kaokoveld
This section explores the unique experiences and must-see places in the rugged Kaokoveld area of northwestern Namibia. Known for its wild, untouched terrain, Kaokoveld offers visitors dramatic scenery and a deep sense of isolation. Highlights include the striking Epupa Falls, immersive cultural encounters at the Ovahimba Living Museum and traditional Himba settlements, as well as adventurous trips to the Skeleton Coast. Wildlife lovers will also enjoy tracking rare desert-adapted elephants and lions that roam the arid landscapes.
Ovahimba Living Museum
The Ovahimba Living Museum offers a hands-on opportunity to explore the traditional lifestyle and customs of the Ovahimba people. It serves both as an educational space for visitors and as a cultural learning center for local children. In addition to preserving and sharing the Ovahimba heritage, the museum also supports the community by providing a sustainable source of income.
Epupa Falls
The Kunene River, which forms the natural border between Namibia and Angola, cascades dramatically into a 40-meter-deep gorge at Epupa Falls, located near the small village of Epupa. The name "Epupa" comes from the Herero language and translates to "falling water," a fitting description of this scenic and powerful waterfall.
Ruacana Falls
Like the Epupa Falls, the Ruacana Falls also originate from the Kunene River, which marks the boundary between Namibia and Angola. Near the village of Ruacana, the river takes a sharp turn westward, continuing to form the border between the two countries as it winds its way toward the Atlantic Ocean, eventually reaching the Skeleton Coast.
Skeleton Coast National Park
The Skeleton Coast is a stark yet captivating strip of land along Namibia’s northwestern shoreline, stretching approximately 500 kilometers in length and 40 kilometers in width. This remote region is known for its harsh conditions, where the icy, turbulent Benguela Current from the Atlantic Ocean meets the arid dunes and desert terrain of Namibia, creating a dramatic and otherworldly environment.
