The Kaokoveld is known to be one of Africa’s least inhibited areas and last remaining wildernesses. This vast area of land covering 45,700 sq km is bound by the Atlantic Ocean stretches to the Namibian savanna woodlands and to the Namib Desert in the south. The terrain is rough and only fully equipped 4X4 4wd vehicles should attempt to navigate through its untamed and unmarked paths.
This scenic landscape is home to roughly 15,000 Himba, a semi-nomadic pastoral tribe who are used to living in seclusion. Dressed in traditional ware, one can find these people breeding cattle and goats tracking them to different waterholes. Recently the increasing number of tourists to this area is posing a huge threat for the livelihood of the Himba as they are introduced to alcohol, candy, and other modern items.
In addition to the Himba, the land hosts a variety of animal species in their natural habitat. The Community Game Guard has also helped to ensure the safety and preservation of the wildlife that calls this unique location home. The Kaokoveld is one of the last areas that sightings of the endangered black rhinoceros can still occur as these animals feed off of the seasonal plants growing in the area. Another unique species living in this environment is the famous desert elephants which some naturalists believe are actually a subspecies of the elephant family due to their ability to live in such a dry climate and their apparently long legs. Lions have also been sighted in the area. For the avid bird lover, there has also been a recorded 630 various bird species in the limits of the Kaokoveld.
The spectacular Epupa Falls are one of Mother Nature’s most stunningly beautiful sights in Namibia. The collection of waterfalls drop between a meter to 15 meters at a time, but it is the surroundings that make this place truly surreal. One should imagine a picturesque rocky and mountainous environment interjected by a lovely winding river; all the while, the Himba people gather along the riverbed minding to their daily activities. It is a truly remarkable sight to see.
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KUNENE RIVER LODGE
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