Kaokoland · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Kaokoland: The Untamed Wilderness of Namibia

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Kaokoland, located in the northwestern part of Namibia, is a land of rugged beauty and unspoiled nature. Known for its vast landscapes, towering mountains, and the unique culture of the Himba people, this remote region offers an authentic African experience far from the usual tourist trails. The breathtaking scenery of Kaokoland includes the dramatic Kaokoveld Desert, the majestic Epupa Falls on the Kunene River, and the expansive Marienfluss Valley. Wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with chances to spot desert elephants, giraffes, and even the elusive black rhino in their natural habitat. This is also one of the few places where you can encounter the Himba people, known for their traditional lifestyle and distinctive red ochre body paint. Adventure seekers will relish the opportunities for off-road driving, hiking, and camping under the starlit African sky. The region's remoteness ensures that visitors can enjoy a serene and intimate connection with nature, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Otjiwarongo

Crocodile Farm Otjiwarongo

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Petrified Forest

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Organ Pipes

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

D3214

Twyfelfontein or /Ui-//aes

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Namutoni

Chudop Waterhole

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

The Bridge

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Warmquelle is about 90km north of Palmwag on the C43

Ongongo Waterfall Campsite

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Namutoni

Fort Namutoni

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Purros

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Ruacaná

Omunjandi Restcamp

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Elephant song camp

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Uis

Brandberg Labyrinth

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Ombu Village

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Elephant-Human Relations Aid (EHRA)

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Three Stages Petrified Forest

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Omenje Camp Site | Puros campsite

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Outapi

Ombalantu Baobab Tree

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Outjo

Images of Africa Curio Shop

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Uis

Uis Himba Village

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Palmwag Concession

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Purros

Purros Conservancy

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Juriesdraai

Palmwag Day Visitors Area

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Pillar of Rock

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Leopard's Claw Rock Formation

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Sesfontein Gate

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Bílé písečné duny

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Viewpoint Barab

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Epupa

Himba Village

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Sand Rock

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Bergtuin Viewpoint and Picnic Spot

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Bushman Paintings

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

Brandberg Hiking Trail

Discover Kaokoland: Namibia's untamed wilderness, home to stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of the Himba people.

When is the best time to go to Kaokoland?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsOct–Mar
Longest daylightOct–Mar
Driest periodJun–Aug

Explore places in Kaokoland

    See all →

    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Kaokoland sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Etosha National Park

    Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Etosha National Park, Namibia's premier safari destination teeming with adventure and natural beauty.

    Etosha National Park

    Okaukuejo Etosha

    Experience the breathtaking wildlife of Okaukuejo in Etosha National Park, where nature unfolds in spectacular ways at every turn.

    Okaukuejo Etosha

    Opuwo Country Lodge

    Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Namibia at Opuwo Country Lodge, where comfort meets adventure in a stunning natural setting.

    Opuwo Country Lodge

    Epupa Falls

    Discover the breathtaking beauty of Epupa Falls, a natural oasis on the Namibia-Angola border, perfect for adventure and tranquility.

    Epupa Falls

    Kaokoland Restaurant

    Explore the authentic flavors of Namibia at Kaokoland Restaurant in Opuwo, a culinary haven for tourists seeking local delights.

    Kaokoland Restaurant

    Skeleton Coast National Park

    Explore the rugged beauty and unique wildlife of Skeleton Coast National Park, where desert dunes meet crashing waves and shipwrecks whisper tales of the sea.

    Skeleton Coast National Park

    Khowarib Lodge

    Discover the tranquil charm of Khowarib Lodge, an oasis for travelers in Namibia, blending comfort with nature's breathtaking beauty.

    Khowarib Lodge

    Otjikandero Himba Orphan Village

    Experience the rich culture of the Himba people while supporting orphans at Otjikandero Himba Orphan Village in Namibia.

    Otjikandero Himba Orphan Village

    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge

    Discover the magic of Namibia at Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, where luxury meets the wild in the heart of the Purros Conservancy.

    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge

    Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp

    Experience the raw beauty of Namibia at Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp, where adventure meets luxury in a stunning desert landscape.

    Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp

    Puros Bush Lodge & Community Campsite

    Experience the tranquility of Puros Bush Lodge & Community Campsite, where nature meets comfort in the heart of Namibia's wilderness.

    Puros Bush Lodge & Community Campsite

    Kaoko Info centre

    Explore Opuwo's natural beauty and cultural richness through the essential Kaoko Info Centre, your key to an unforgettable Namibian adventure.

    Kaoko Info centre

    Okahirongo River Camp

    Discover the enchanting Okahirongo River Camp in Namibia's Marienfluss region, where luxury meets wilderness in an unforgettable nature retreat.

    Okahirongo River Camp

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Crocodile Farm Otjiwarongo

    Discover the fascinating world of crocodiles at Crocodile Farm Otjiwarongo, an unforgettable tourist attraction in Namibia filled with adventure and learning.

    Crocodile Farm Otjiwarongo

    Petrified Forest

    Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Petrified Forest in Namibia, where ancient history and stunning landscapes come together in one unforgettable adventure.

    Petrified Forest

    Organ Pipes

    Explore the stunning geological formations of Organ Pipes in Namibia – a natural wonder that captivates every traveler with its breathtaking beauty.

    Organ Pipes

    Chudop Waterhole

    Experience the serene beauty of Chudop Waterhole in Etosha National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

    Chudop Waterhole

    Ongongo Waterfall Campsite

    Discover the serene beauty of Ongongo Waterfall Campsite, a nature lover's paradise in Namibia with stunning waterfalls and camping adventures.

    Ongongo Waterfall Campsite

    The Bridge

    Explore The Bridge, an iconic tourist attraction in Namibia, renowned for its stunning views and rich cultural heritage amidst breathtaking landscapes.

    The Bridge

    Twyfelfontein or /Ui-//aes

    Explore Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in ancient rock art and stunning Namibian landscapes, perfect for history and nature enthusiasts.

    Twyfelfontein or /Ui-//aes

    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge

    Discover the ultimate blend of luxury and nature at Okahirongo Elephant Lodge in Namibia's stunning Purros Conservancy.

    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge

    Fort Namutoni

    Explore Fort Namutoni, a historical gem in Namibia, where colonial architecture meets stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

    Fort Namutoni

    Ombalantu Baobab Tree

    Discover the historic Ombalantu Baobab Tree in Outapi, Namibia, a natural wonder rich in culture and stories that captivates every traveler.

    Ombalantu Baobab Tree

    Omunjandi Restcamp

    Discover the captivating beauty of Namibia at Omunjandi Restcamp, a serene camping farm offering unforgettable outdoor experiences in nature.

    Omunjandi Restcamp

    Elephant-Human Relations Aid (EHRA)

    Discover the Elephant-Human Relations Aid in Namibia: A unique blend of conservation, community engagement, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.

    Elephant-Human Relations Aid (EHRA)

    Ombu Village

    Explore Ombu Village: A Hidden Gem in Namibia, Where Nature Meets Culture for an Unforgettable Experience.

    Ombu Village

    Elephant song camp

    Experience the serenity and wildlife of Namibia at Elephant Song Camp, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

    Elephant song camp

    Three Stages Petrified Forest

    Explore the ancient beauty of the Three Stages Petrified Forest, a geological marvel in Namibia showcasing stunning petrified wood formations.

    Three Stages Petrified Forest

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    The Grove Mall of Namibia

    Explore The Grove Mall of Namibia, a vibrant shopping destination in Windhoek offering diverse shops, dining, and entertainment for all ages.

    The Grove Mall of Namibia

    Dunes Mall

    Explore Dunes Mall in Walvis Bay for an unforgettable shopping experience with diverse stores, delicious dining, and exciting entertainment options.

    Dunes Mall

    The FARMhouse Boutique Guesthouse Upstairs 2

    Experience the charm and hospitality of The FARMhouse Boutique Guesthouse in Outjo, where comfort meets local culture.

    The FARMhouse Boutique Guesthouse Upstairs 2

    SPAR Kunene

    Explore local flavors and essential supplies at SPAR Kunene, Opuwo's vibrant supermarket for tourists and locals alike.

    SPAR Kunene

    OK Foods

    Explore the vibrant local flavors and culinary treasures at OK Foods in Opuwo, your one-stop grocery destination.

    OK Foods

    Khowarib Lodge

    Discover the serene beauty and adventure of Namibia at Khowarib Lodge, your ideal retreat in the heart of nature.

    Khowarib Lodge

    Etosha Trading Post

    Discover the essentials at Etosha Trading Post, your one-stop shop for groceries, fuel, and tire services in the heart of Namibia's wilderness.

    Etosha Trading Post

    PEP Opuwo

    Experience fashion and affordability at PEP Opuwo, Namibia's premier clothing store for the whole family.

    PEP Opuwo

    OK FOODS KHORIXAS

    Experience the best of local produce and baked goods at OK Foods Khorixas, the supermarket that embodies the spirit of Namibia.

    OK FOODS KHORIXAS

    Kamanjab Stores (Sentra)

    Explore local flavors and everyday essentials at Kamanjab Stores, a vibrant supermarket in the heart of Kamanjab, Namibia.

    Kamanjab Stores (Sentra)

    Powersave Supermarket

    Explore Opuwo's vibrant culture at Powersave Supermarket, where local products and fresh produce await.

    Powersave Supermarket

    PEP Khorixas

    Explore affordable and trendy clothing for the whole family at PEP Khorixas, a must-visit shopping destination in Namibia.

    PEP Khorixas

    Choppies Khorixas

    Discover the best of local and international products at Choppies Khorixas, your go-to grocery store in Namibia.

    Choppies Khorixas

    Oase Supermarket

    Explore the flavors of Namibia at Oase Supermarket in Kamanjab, your gateway to local produce and culinary delights.

    Oase Supermarket

    Build it Outjo

    Unleash your creativity at Build It Outjo, the ultimate destination for quality building materials and home improvement essentials in Namibia.

    Build it Outjo

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    Kaokoland Restaurant

    Experience authentic Namibian cuisine at Kaokoland Restaurant – a culinary gem in Opuwo offering a vibrant atmosphere and local flavors.

    Kaokoland Restaurant

    Holiday Special Bar

    Discover the lively ambiance and diverse drink offerings at Holiday Special Bar in Opuwo, a must-visit for tourists seeking local culture.

    Holiday Special Bar

    Peace Garden Bar

    Relax and unwind at the Peace Garden Bar, a vibrant spot in Khorixas offering great drinks and friendly vibes.

    Peace Garden Bar

    Eyambeko Bar

    Discover the vibrant Eyambeko Bar in Opuwo, where local culture and nightlife come alive with delicious drinks and live entertainment.

    Eyambeko Bar

    Wandii's Bar

    Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local culture at Wandii's Bar in Fransfontein, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.

    Wandii's Bar

    D'Light Sports Bar & Restaurant

    Discover the lively atmosphere of D'Light Sports Bar & Restaurant in Ruacana, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and sports excitement await.

    D'Light Sports Bar & Restaurant

    Kambwa lounge

    Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kambwa Lounge in Tsandi, a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and local culture.

    Kambwa lounge

    M SQUARE Pub, Car Wash and Gambling House

    Discover the vibrant dining and entertainment experience at M SQUARE Pub, Car Wash and Gambling House in Okahao.

    M SQUARE Pub, Car Wash and Gambling House

    Omakange Parkies Bar

    Discover the lively charm of Omakange Parkies Bar, a favorite spot for locals and travelers in Amakange, offering great drinks and an inviting atmosphere.

    Omakange Parkies Bar

    Castle Bar

    Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Castle Bar in Opuwo, your go-to spot for relaxation and socializing.

    Castle Bar

    Old Prospectors Pub

    Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local charm at Old Prospectors Pub in Uis, Namibia, where every drink tells a story.

    Old Prospectors Pub

    Nakalondo Bar

    Experience the heart of Namibian culture at Nakalondo Bar in Otjiwarongo, where local flavors and vibrant atmosphere await.

    Nakalondo Bar

    NXT LVL PUB

    Experience the lively atmosphere of NXT LVL PUB in Okahao, where local flavor meets vibrant nightlife and friendly faces.

    NXT LVL PUB

    Unity Sport Club -Green bar

    Experience the local vibe at Unity Sport Club - Green Bar in Khorixas, where relaxation meets entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.

    Unity Sport Club -Green bar

    Hecta Entertainment Center

    Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hecta Entertainment Center, Khorixas' top bar for local brews and lively ambiance.

    Hecta Entertainment Center
    File:Lone tree in front of Dune 45 Sossusvlei Namibia.jpg - Wikimedia  Commons
    Destination guide

    More about Namibia

    Discover Namibia: A land of towering dunes, ancient deserts, and vibrant cultures. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers seeking an unparalleled African experience.

    Tell me more about Namibia
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Explore Kaokoland in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    Lêer:Epupa Falls (detail).jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Himba Woman and Family.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Shipwreck-skeleton-coast.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Marienfluss-2000-1.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Řeka Kunene River, vodopády Epupa Falls - Namibie, Angola -  panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Van Zyl´s Pass.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Sunrise over Hartmann Valley.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.