For those who don't have four free days to paddle from Kunene River Lodge to Epupa Falls, this 2-day trip provides an ideal taster adventure with ample opportunity to explore virtually unknown stretches of the Kunene River and to experience the thrills and challenges of riding the rapids through the Ondorusu Gorge.

In common with the 4-day adventure, you will experience the peace, solitude and beauty of this stunning river and landscape and perhaps sense what it was like to explore Africa when it was totally unknown.

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

Your adventure begins with an early morning road transfer from Kunene River Lodge to the Hippo Pools at Ruacana where you will check that your belongings are securely tied down in the boats, and receive basic safety instructions from your Guides for the day ahead.

Day 1: Hippo Pools to Kunene Stein

The first day's paddling will be mainly through calm water, which is a comfortable way of getting to know your boat and your companions. After taking in the magnificent scenery and slowly adjusting during the day to the pace of the river, we will pitch camp on the riverbank under large shady trees where the Guides will prepare dinner over an open camp fire. Enjoy your meal around the fire, sharing some of the day's reminiscences and soaking up the peace and silence, occasionally broken by the mysterious sounds of the African night.

Day 2: Kunene Stein to Kunene River Lodge

After a night's well-earnt sleep, the new day starts with breakfast. Once packed up, the paddling is easy for a short while, until we reach the famous Ondorusu Gorge. Here we encounter several groups of rapids with descriptive names such as Grandmother's Featherbed, Corkscrew, Surprise and Birthday Shoot. All will become clear on the day!

If the river level is higher, you may be lucky enough to experience Shake Rattle and Roll, Pink Steel and Judgement Day before emerging again into smooth water to paddle gently along the final stretch of the journey to Kunene River Lodge.

Your campsite will be awaiting you on your return. Should you feel the need for a touch of luxury, why not upgrade to one of our A-Frame Chalets or DeLuxe Rooms and/or enjoy a meal from our Restaurant, overlooking the river (subject to availability and additional charge).

Facts and Figures

• Start: Ruacana (Hippo Pools)
• Finish: Kunene River Lodge
• Distance: 50 km
• Duration: 2 paddling days
• Paddling distance per day: 20 - 30 km
• 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: minimum 2 people
• Backup: not required

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
• Meals during the trip will be prepared by the Guides and include:-
        1st Day: Lunch and Dinner
        2nd Day: Breakfast and Lunch
• Night 1 camping on the riverbank
• Night 2 camping at Kunene River Lodge.