We offer Guests a unique opportunity to explore the rugged interior of north-west Namibia by river - as a stand-alone expedition from Kunene River Lodge, or better still, as an excursion during a longer stay at the Lodge. The camping trip includes a first night at Kunene River Lodge, four days paddling and a final night at Epupa Falls.

The area from Kunene River Lodge to Epupa Falls is one of the last great wilderness areas in Africa - a wild and beautiful home to the Himba people, unspoilt by modern influences.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience will take you into a lost world. Not only can you embrace the peace and solitude of the stunning landscape as you paddle peacefully along the calm river, but you will also experience the adrenaline rush of conquering white water, as you race through rapids along the way.

Depending upon the water level, you will use 2-man Crocs or 8-man Rafts, accompanied by experienced Guides, all trained and registered by the African Paddling Association, and qualified in First-Aid.

The Itinerary

Arrive at Kunene River Lodge before dusk and relax in your beautiful campsite overlooking the Kunene River, where your Guides will later give a short briefing to outline the trip and the packing arrangements.

You may like to enjoy a meal on the deck of our excellent Restaurant, overlooking the river, and/or upgrade to one of our DeLuxe Rooms or A-Frame Chalets (subject to availability and additional charge).

Day 1: Kunene River Lodge to Okakumangwe

We begin by packing all the equipment and personal belongings into the boats. The first day's paddling will be mainly flat water, giving plenty of opportunity to soak up the river atmosphere and get to know each other. By late afternoon, we will reach the campsite, where the Guides will prepare the camp and our evening meal to be eaten around the campfire.

Day 2: Okakumangwe to Enyandi

After breakfast we continue on mainly flat water with opportunities to see Himba kraals next to the river. During this time we will be preparing ourselves for the Enyandi Gorge which we shall encounter tomorrow. On arrival at Enyandi, we set up camp and, if time allows, we will walk to the gorge to see what we can expect in the morning. Later, we will enjoy our meal and relax, taking in the sounds and beauty of the African night around the camp fire, under the stars.

Day 3: Enyandi to Steekboom

Today - the thrills of Enyandi!   After a hearty breakfast, we pack the camp and make sure everything is tied down safely. We start paddling at Enyandi Gorge which snakes through a maze of little islands and through challenging rapids. After the excitement, we paddle on to Steekboom for another evening around the camp fire - time to reminisce.

Day 4: Steekboom to Epupa Falls

The final stretch. After breakfast, we prepare for our last day paddling along the mighty Kunene River and through the Epupa Falls rapids, which we must navigate before we enjoy our final evening together at the Epupa Falls Campsite. On arrival, we set up camp and have time to enjoy a walk around the magnificent Epupa Falls, followed by a cool sundowner on Sundowner Hill or at the campsite. To mark the conclusion of our adventure, the Guides will prepare a festive meal which will surely be shared, along with many memories of our trip, to the magical background music of the Falls and the crackling fire, long into the night.

Departure

Breakfast at Epupa Falls and packing up. Transfer back to the Lodge (about 4 hours) where you may continue your stay. Alternatively, from Epupa, proceed to your next destination (if you have arranged for your vehicle(s) to be brought to Epupa).

Facts and Figures

• Start: Kunene River Lodge
• Finish: Epupa Falls
• Distance: 100km
• Duration: 4 paddling days (possibly less if conditions dictate)
• Paddling distance per day: 20 - 30km
• River Grades (always dependent upon river conditions that day)
        1 - 4 (May - December)
        2 - 5 (January - April)
• Guides' Training and Qualifications:
        African Paddling Association registered
        First Aid qualified
• Group Size: 2 - 8 people
• Backup: We can provide a vehicle and driver to follow the
                 group of paddlers (at additonal cost - on request)

General Kit List for Participants

• Sleeping Bag • Pillow
• Shorts / Board Shorts • T Shirts
• Sarong / Kikoi
• Swimming Costume • Hat
• Wind Breaker / Fleece
• Slip Slops / Water Shoes • Dry Shoes
• Toiletries • Towel
• Insect Repellent • Sun Screen (essential)
• Sunglasses • Torch • Camera
• Your own alcoholic drinks for the trip
If you have your own Dry Bags or Waterproof Bags, you are welcome to use them.

Equipment and Services supplied by Kunene River Lodge

• Boats • Paddles
• Life Jackets • Helmets • Dry Bags
• Tents • Foam Mattresses
• All Crockery • All Cutlery
• All meals during the trip (prepared by the Guides)
• All Camping Fees during the trip
  (including first night at Kunene River Lodge)