- Location: Epupa, Cunene region, Namibia
- Height: 37 m
- Width: 500 m
Namibia , being one of the most visited countries of Africa, is known in the tourist world primarily due to its unique ecosystem and amazing wildlife. In the north of the country there is the famous river Kunene, which is also part of the Angolan-Namibian border. The main attraction of this region is undoubtedly considered to be the majestic Epupa waterfall, which will be discussed later in this article.
General information
The Epupa Falls, as mentioned earlier, is located on the border of the territories of two states - Namibia and Angola, although geographically it still belongs to the Namibian region of Kaokoland. There are several theories about the origin of the name of one of the main national attractions: according to the opinions of some researchers, "Epupa" in translation from the language of the people Herero means "foam", while in the language of the Himba tribe, the same word has another meaning: "falling water ". Anyway, both options characterize the majestic waterfall as well as possible.
What is interesting waterfall?
The main attraction of the Epupa Falls for visitors is to travel through almost impassable forests and untouched wilderness. So, on the way to the waterfall, there are often high baobabs, fig trees and makalani palms. In addition, along the road you can see a lot of ancient rock paintings, which makes visiting this place even more interesting and mysterious.
The river Kunene forms a special ecosystem, thanks to which in this region there are many fascinating entertainments for every taste. Some of them are available for self-study, while others need to be ordered in one of the local lodges. The most popular fun for travelers is:
- Bird watching. In the Kaokoland area, where the Epupa waterfall is located, more than 250 bird species have been recorded, most of which are endemic. Here you can see such rare specimens as: palm thrushes, beetles, African eagles-screamers, red-flecked astralds and many others. etc. It is best to observe the birds during a hiking trip or organized excursion by boat.
- Swimming. Despite some danger of meeting face to face with local inhabitants, including crocodiles, many tourists come here with one goal - to rest on the beach and to buy in a swift stream of boiling foaming water. If you are not afraid to take risks and are confident in your swimming abilities, such extreme entertainment is just for you!
- Trekking. Walking through the territory of the waterfall of Epupa is relatively safe and therefore suitable for people of different ages and levels of physical fitness. It is also an excellent opportunity to meet personally with the representatives of the Himba tribe, who often come to the river Cunene, and learn more about their unique culture and centuries-old traditions.
Where to stay?
Since the area where the waterfall Epupa is located, offers tourists a whole range of entertainment, many holidaymakers stay here for several days, breaking camp or stopping at lodges nearby:
- Epupa Camp - a small campground to the east of the waterfall. On the campsite there is a small swimming pool that allows you to cool after midday heat, a dining room where traditional dishes are served, and a spacious lounge area. The main feature of Epupa Camp is a suspension bridge connecting the lodge with its own private island.
- Epupa Falls Lodge is another great option for accommodation near the main local attraction. The Lodge consists of 9 luxurious safari tents, each with 2 single beds, a private bathroom (with hot water, shower and toilet), 24-hour lighting and a mosquito net. Here you can book an excursion to the waterfall or to the settlement of the Himba people.
- Kapika Waterfall Camp is a mini-hotel, which, unlike all other lodges, is located not directly by the water, but on a high hill, which allows holidaymakers to watch luxurious wildlife views directly from their rooms. On the territory of Kapika Waterfall Camp there is a restaurant and a bar, a small outdoor pool and a private terrace, adjacent to each of the 10 rooms.
How to get there?
Traveling in Namibia by public transport is quite insecure and long, and the concept of "taxi" as such does not exist (taxis in Namibia are represented by large itineraries for 16, and sometimes 32 places). Therefore, the only way to get to the waterfall of Epupa, in addition to a pre-booked sightseeing tour - by yourself, by renting a car , preferably an off-road car. Although the road leading to the destination is not gravel and has quite comfortable conditions for transportation, it is better not to take risks, especially if the planned trip coincides with the rainy season (February-April).
If your way is from Windhoek, prepare for a long journey. The distance between the capital and the region of Epupe is more than 900 km and will take about 10 hours. To get to the waterfall, take the highway B1, C40 and then take the C35 towards C43 (Cunene region).