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Ruacana Falls: A Majestic Natural Wonder

Experience the grandeur of Ruacana Falls, a majestic waterfall on the Namibia-Angola border, offering stunning views and cultural encounters.

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Ruacana Falls, located on the Kunene River along the Namibia-Angola border, is a stunning waterfall renowned for its impressive height and breadth. While the falls' flow is subject to seasonal changes and hydroelectric activity, it remains a captivating sight, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Ruacana Falls

Local tips

  • Visit during the rainy season (December to May) to witness the falls at their fullest and most spectacular.
  • Engage with local communities for a richer cultural experience and to learn about the traditions of the Ovambo and Himba people.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife in the area.
  • Pack water and snacks, as amenities may be limited in the immediate vicinity of the falls.
  • Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the local culture, history, and natural environment.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Omusati, drive south on the C46 road for approximately 85 kilometers until you reach the T-junction at Ruacana. Turn left onto the C43 road, and after about 7 kilometers, you will see signs directing you to Ruacana Falls. Follow these signs to arrive at the falls. Parking is available near the viewpoint. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Public Transportation

    From Omusati, take a local taxi or minibus traveling along the C46 road towards Ruacana. The fare should be around N$ 50 to N$ 100, depending on negotiation skills and the distance. Inform the driver that you want to go to Ruacana Falls. After approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, the driver will drop you off at the T-junction. From there, you can either walk to the falls (about 7 kilometers) or wait for another taxi to take you the rest of the way. Expect to pay around N$ 50 to N$ 100 for the taxi from the T-junction to the falls, depending on your negotiation skills.

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Discover more about Ruacana Falls

Ruacana Falls is situated on the Kunene River, which serves as the natural border between Namibia and Angola. The falls are one of the largest in Africa, with a height of 120 meters (390 feet) and a width of 700 meters (2,300 feet) when in full flood. The Kunene River plummets into a 120-meter deep and 700-meter wide gorge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of cascading water and misty spray. Historically, the falls have been a significant landmark and a source of life for the surrounding communities. However, the construction of the Ruacana Hydroelectric Power Station and the Calueque Dam upstream has altered the natural flow of the river. The power station, built in the 1970s, diverts water for hydroelectric production, leading to reduced water levels at the falls for much of the year. Despite this, Ruacana Falls remains a popular tourist destination, particularly during the rainy season (roughly December to May) when the river is at its fullest. During this time, the falls regain their full glory, offering breathtaking views and a powerful display of nature's force. Visitors to Ruacana Falls can explore the surrounding area, which is rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage. The nearby villages provide a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of the Ovambo and Himba people, offering opportunities for cultural immersion and interaction. Nature lovers can appreciate the diverse flora and fauna, with opportunities for birdwatching and hiking along the trails that lead to various viewpoints of the falls. Despite the reduced flow during the dry season, the falls retain their fascination, with the dry riverbed and gorge offering unique opportunities for exploration.

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