Kaokoland Damaraland Namibia 2027
Overview
Kaokoland & Damaraland Safari – Namibia
This unforgettable overland journey begins in Windhoek and heads north to the legendary Etosha National Park, where guests can enjoy a full day exploring one of Africa’s greatest wildlife reserves. From there the adventure continues to the Kunene River and the spectacular Epupa Falls, a lush oasis on Namibia’s remote northern border.
Travelling through Kaokoland, one of the wildest and least-visited regions in Southern Africa, the route follows rugged tracks along the Kunene and across dramatic escarpments into the vast Marienfluss valley. Along the way we pass through traditional Himba areas where this iconic semi-nomadic culture still lives much as it has for centuries.
The journey includes two remote bush camps beneath the desert stars and continues through riverbeds toward Purros, where desert-adapted wildlife such as elephant may occasionally be encountered.
After the wilderness of Kaokoland, the tour relaxes at Palmwag before continuing south to the ancient rock engravings of Twyfelfontein and the dramatic landscapes of Damaraland. The expedition ends on Namibia’s Atlantic coast in Swakopmund.
This tour combines wildlife, culture, remote landscapes and true overland adventure in one of Africa’s last great wilderness regions.
20 March – 2 April 2027
Section 1 – Windhoek to Ruacana
20–23 March 2027
The safari begins in Windhoek, Namibia’s relaxed capital, where guests arrive, prepare vehicles and do final shopping before departure. The route then heads north via Outjo toward Etosha National Park.
Two nights near Etosha allow time to explore one of Africa’s great wildlife reserves. Established in 1907 and covering more than 22,000 km², Etosha is famous for its vast salt pan and exceptional wildlife viewing around its waterholes.
From Etosha the safari continues north to the Kunene River and the border town of Ruacana, gateway to the remote landscapes of Kaokoland.
Section 2 – Ruacana to Epupa Falls
24–25 March 2027
From Ruacana the route follows the Kunene River westward through traditional Himba territory. This semi-nomadic culture has lived in the region for centuries and remains one of Namibia’s most distinctive indigenous communities.
The journey passes Swartbooisdrift and the Dorsland Trekker Monument, marking the route taken by Boer families who crossed these harsh landscapes in the late 1800s.
A scenic 4x4 drive leads to Epupa Falls where the Kunene River tumbles over rocky ledges surrounded by makalani palms. Two nights allow time to relax and explore the falls.
Section 3 – Opuwo to the Marienfluss and Purros
26–29 March 2027
After Epupa the safari travels to Opuwo, the last reliable fuel and shopping stop before entering the remote northern wilderness.
The route climbs the escarpment and descends into the spectacular Marienfluss valley where the first night is spent on the banks of the Kunene River. Here a green ribbon of riverine vegetation contrasts with wide grassy plains and surrounding mountains.
Travelling south through the valley the route passes the well-known Red Drum, Orange Drum, Green Drum and Blue Drum — colourful oil drums long used as navigation markers by travellers crossing this vast landscape.
A bush camp follows on the edge of the Namib Desert, believed to be the oldest desert on Earth. The safari then continues through rugged terrain and riverbeds to reach the remote settlement of Purros, an area known for desert-adapted wildlife including elephant.
Section 4 – Purros to Swakopmund
30 March – 2 April 2027
From Purros the safari continues through the dramatic landscapes of Damaraland to Palmwag for two nights of comfort after the remote northern section.
The route then visits Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 2,000 ancient San rock engravings.
Passing the massive granite dome of Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain, the safari reaches the Atlantic coast.
The journey ends in Swakopmund on 2 April — the perfect place to celebrate the end of an unforgettable Kaokoland adventure.
I have now driven Van Zyl’s Pass and the surrounding alternative routes several times. In my opinion, too much is often said and written about the pass itself, and it can draw attention away from some of the far more spectacular scenery nearby.
On this safari we do not drive Van Zyl’s Pass. However, if you would like to see what it is like, there is a short video available that shows the route and conditions.
The alternative routes we follow offer similar 4x4 driving but pass through landscapes that are, in my view, even more dramatic and rewarding.
A standard 4x4 safari vehicle with low range, as supplied from the factory, is perfectly adequate for this safari. No special modifications or equipment are required.
No prior off-road driving experience is required. I personally guide the tour and will provide all the guidance and support needed along the way.
Between Marble and Marienfluss we cross Klein Van Zyl’s Pass, so I generally prefer that vehicles do not tow. If you have a capable vehicle and are towing a small off-road trailer, I will not prevent it. Road conditions change every year and we will assess them when we arrive.
220V power is available at some camps from time to time, but it should not be relied upon. Guests should plan to be largely self-sufficient for charging equipment.