Tucked away in the north-western corner of Namibia, the Kunene region (previously informally known as Kaokoland,) is the epitome of adventure.
Of all of the Namibia holidays you could experience, time spent travelling along the dusty tracks that twist and turn through the virtually untouched landscape will be time you treasure for the rest of your life. This the epitome of adventure, with indescribably beautiful landscapes, an interesting population of wildlife and an atmosphere of utter peace and tranquillity. The Kunene region is magical, remote and popular with those looking to experience a private and more secluded Namibia safari.
In this know-before-you-go guide, we’re providing a couple of quick facts, tips and generally helpful information to assist you in planning an exciting, guaranteed to be unforgettable trip through the Kunune region of Namibia.
When is the best time to visit the Kunene Region?
For the most part Namibia enjoys hot dry weather for a large part of the year. In this region you can expect a wet and rainy season as well, so well thought out planning is essential.
The best time to visit the area is between May and October, when the weather is at its driest. Not only does this minimise the chance of being rained out during your trip, but it also potentially increases wildlife sightings as the animals congregate around water holes when rain is scarce.
If you wish to travel between November and March, be sure to pack for the rainy weather whilst also being prepared to deal with some fairly intense heat.
The Top 3 Attractions
The whole of the Kunene region is an attraction on its own. The ecosystems, landscapes and wildlife all make for an epic adventure, but if you are looking for more specific things to do and places to see, here’s what you can add to your itinerary:
- Kunene River
The surrounding land is barren but along the bed of the Kunene River, the landscape is abundantly green. The Kunene River cuts a lazy path through granite rock and all along the banks, wildlife can be seen drinking their fill and keeping cool in the hot desert heat. The river is a welcome sight after a day of travel and along its banks are various lodges and campsites, many of which offer some of the finest accommodation in Namibia. - Epupa Falls
Nestled in the north west of the Kunene region, the awe-inspiring Epupa Falls is one of the most popular attractions in Namibia and a must visit when you are in the area. Around the falls you can see all sorts of incredible flowers, birds and trees, with ancient Baobab trees and Makalani Palms being a particularly beautiful sight to behold. If you are lucky, you may catch sight of a crocodile enjoying a swim in one of the waterfall’s pools. - Opuwo
Home to the Himba people of Namibia, Opuwo is the capital of the Kunene region and one of the best places to learn about this fascinating tribe. Many Himba people still live much according to the ancient ways of their ancestors, and you can gain an insight into their customs and traditions during a visit to the Ovahimba Living Museum.
Popular Namibia Safari Holidays Which Visit the Kunene Region
At ATC Namibia we offer our guests both fly-in tours, or conventional safari options per road. Here are some tours which include a visit to the Kunene region:
• Best of Namibia (Guided Safari)
On day 4 of this superb tour of Namibia, guests head into the Kunene region for a day of adventure with the evening stay at the Twyfelfontein Country Lodge. Guests may be fortunate enough to see the free-roaming desert elephants.
• Best of Namibia Wilderness (Fly Safari)
Continuing on from Windhoek, Sossusvlei and Swakopmund, on day 6 of this safari per charter flight the journey takes you along the west coast of Namibia and into the Kunene region. There you can look forward to participating in 2 exciting activities and spending the night in the fabulous Doro Nawas Adventure Camp.
• 15 Days Namibia Photo Adventure Safari (Photographic Guided Tour)
An outstanding Namibia tour perfect for both professional and amateur photographers, this tour has guests heading to the Kunene region on day 6. Walk through the same areas where once the hunter-gatherers of the past searched for food and painted rocks tell the story of these ancient people. Numerous artefacts and tools have been discovered here over time, alongside the paintings.
• Three Countries Adventures Safari (Guided Tour)
This exciting tour takes guests into three different countries, through Namibia and on to Botswana and Zimbabwe. In the Kunene region on days 6 & 7, enjoy exciting exploration and the opportunity to get to know the Himba tribe with their unique and enthralling customs and traditional way of living.
• Kaokoland Guided Tour
The ultimate tour of this region of Namibia, this safari consists of an unforgettable 15 days in and around the area, giving guests ample time to experience all of the magic the Kunene region has to offer. Guests will travel from Windhoek and spend exhilerating days exploring, before travelling on to the Etosha National Park and finally returning to Windhoek.
Planning your Kaokoland Trip
With an impressive array of Namibia tour packages available, selecting your ideal itinerary and choosing your preferred mode of travel is all part of the holiday fun. ATC Namibia offer scheduled tours, self-drive or charter-fly-in options and we also offer tailor-made packages to best suit your requirements.
We are passionate about our unique African nation and we offer our guests a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience when booking with ATC Namibia. Our Namibia tour package prices are budget friendly and when booking one of our tours, you can be sure that an unforgettable experience awaits you.