"It can be fairly challenging to reach isolated Kaokoland in the far north-west of Namibia, but the hidden valleys, rugged mountains and extreme landscapes of this wild place are absolutely breathtaking. Kaokoland is the ancestral home of the Himba people, semi-nomadic pastoralists who are known for their striking appearance and elaborate hair styles and jewellery. In the far north the Kunene River, which forms the border between Namibia and Angola, provides the opportunity for some excellent bird watching and an adventure of canoeing or white -water rafting.”
- Narina Exelby
Kaokoland
Kaokoland is very sparsely populated. Out here, in the far north-western reaches of Namibia and in an area the size of Switzerland, there is an average of one person every two kilometres, and the rugged landscape doesn’t support much wildlife. Many people travel to Kaokoland hoping to see the rare desert elephant that roam these wild lands. While “normal” elephant need to drink twice a day, these desert elephant have adapted to the harsh environment by being able to drink water only every four days.
In the far north of Kaokoland the Kunene River creates a thread of green through the harsh landscape, where the palm forest provides a haven for rare and interesting bird species, including the Rufous-tailed palm-thrush, bee-eaters and a variety of kingfishers. The river also provides the opportunity for birding boat trips, as well as canoeing and white-water rafting.
The beautiful Epupa Falls is a 1.5km-long series of jagged waterfalls along the Kunene River that’s surrounded by baobabs, fig trees and makalani palms. Also in the region is the stunning Marienfluss Valley, where occasional trees mark an underground river; the valley is known for the mysterious rock circles scattered across the land. Kaokoland – where cross-roads are sometimes indicated by oil drums – is treasured by 4×4 enthusiasts, many of whom dream of tackling the infamous Van Zyl’s Pass.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 26°C/29°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 26°C/29°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 26°C/29°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 26°C/29°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate, the landscape returns to its semi-arid state as the drought continues.
Midday temperatures are suprisingly cool, averaging around 22°C/72°F, while night temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate, the landscape returns to its semi-arid state as the drought continues.
Midday temperatures are suprisingly cool, averaging around 22°C/72°F, while night temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate, the landscape returns to its semi-arid state as the drought continues.
Midday temperatures are suprisingly cool, averaging around 22°C/72°F, while night temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate, the landscape returns to its semi-arid state as the drought continues.
Midday temperatures are suprisingly cool, averaging around 22°C/72°F, while night temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with average midday temperatures 26°C/29°F, it is however not uncommon for much warmer days than this.
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with average midday temperatures 26°C/29°F, it is however not uncommon for much warmer days than this.
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 26°C/29°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 26°C/29°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Kaokoland has very distinct wet and dry seasons; the wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although Kaokoland can be visited throughout the year, it is at its best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Explore Kaokoland Properties
Kunene River Lodge
Kunene River Lodge
Kunene River Lodge is an adventurous camp enjoying an idyllic setting by the Kunene River. With a simple design and plenty of comforts, this remote camp makes an excellent base to enjoy the thrilling activities on offer along the ..
Serra Cafema
Serra Cafema
Serra Cafema is an oasis amid the moon-like setting of the Namib desert. Surrounded by arid plains and rugged mountains, the camp enjoys a remote riverside location with rustic luxury in bounds. With breathtaking landscapes and ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
