Kaokoland - Kunene River

Departure en route to Sesfontein and Opuwo over the Sesfontein Pass. The trail continues in a westerly direction to Kaoko Otavi. After a visit there, the journey continues into the Hoarusib River Valley. Encounter various Ovahimba families.

Camping in the Hoarusib River.

Time and again one meets Ovahimba families and the guest will have, if not today, the opportunity to explore an Ovahimba village as well as a traditional hut. The guest learns about the old customs and way of life of this nomadic tribe. The Ovahimba gratefully accept sugar, confectionery, tobacco and other trinkets as gifts.

Overnight open camp in the region of Orupembe, a large Ovahimba settlement.

We continue into the western part of Kaokoland, the Hartmann Valley. Our destination today is Camp Serra Cafema. Fully furnished 2bed tents en suite, with hot and cold water, a swimming pool, small bar – all this in a relaxing atmosphere under lovely shady anatrees (Faidherbia albida) on the banks of the mighty Kunene River.

Overnight in Serra Cafema.

Today guests are indulged with guided 4 x 4 sightseeing tours, hikes in the gorges and valleys of the Hartmann Valley, a boat trip on the Kunene River and a visit to an Ovahimba family living in the vicinity of the Camp. The Hartmann Valley is unique and offers the guests the opportunity to enjoy, in perfect solitude, nature at its purest.

Overnight in Camp Serra Cafema.

Today we say “Adieu Camp Cafema” and embark on our return journey. Via Rooidrom we continue our journey through the northwestern Kaokoland to Orupembe. We traverse almost deserted contrasting landscapes, ranging from desert to Kaokohighland.

Camping in the open.

After breakfast, we leave in southerly direction through the beautiful Hoarusib River valley with Ovahimba settlings and high palm trees. With some luck, will we encounter the desert elephant.

Camping in one of the side arms of the Hoanib River. Often small herds of elephant pass the camp.

Break up camp and game drive in search for elephants. After a short sojourn at Sesfontein, a one-time Schutztruppen outpost which functions as a lodge nowadays, the journey takes us back to Palmwag Lodge.

End of Tour.