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A Cautionary Tale First published: 10/01/2009

Once upon a time . . . in July 2008 . . .

Despite the fact that the road had deteriorated after heavy rains earlier in the year, a couple of our Guests decided to drive in one vehicle to Epupa Falls along the river road. This road is serious 4x4 terrain but doesn't normally present too many problems to experienced drivers with 4x4 vehicles. However, this day was to be an exception.

Rescuers find the breakdown - no room to spare on this road

While climbing a hill on a particularly narrow stretch of the road, both the engine and transmission mountings broke. The vehicle ended up slewed across the road and completely blocking it! The following morning, another vehicle came along and couldn't get past. Luckily, however, the second vehicle was equipped with a satellite phone, so the stranded couple were at last able to make contact with us.

Hmm . . . never seen that happen before . . . nor have we . . .

KRL does not operate a recovery service. Nevertheless Pete and Gert dropped everything they were doing to load up the small generator, welding equipment, masses of tools and the hundreds of other items that might be useful or essential, and mounted a rescue mission.

Hard at work with the nitty-gritty . . . or taking a break in the shade?

It was indeed quite a mission, but they eventually managed to put in some bolts and get the engine back in place, and working well enough for the happy couple to continue on their way.

The team's sorted it all in the nick of time . . . as dusk descends . . .

Gert - Pete - Graham - Jonathan - Christian. Eva took the photos.

Graham and Jonathan were the two Good Samaritans.

Pete and Gert returned dirty and exhausted at 10pm that evening.

It was indeed fortunate that more travellers were on the road, and that there were KRL staff available, prepared and able to respond at short notice with the equipment necessary to effect a repair.

Pete and Gert did an amazing job, well beyond the call of duty.

Be warned - travel in two vehicles, and please take the advice of those with local knowledge before setting out into difficult country . . . and you may live happily ever after.

Note: there is an alternative and very good road to Epupa via Epembe which may be used to reach Epupa without encountering any problems of very rough terrain.

If we are aware of impassable roads in the area we normally post a notice to that effect on this website. We recommend you check the site if possible before driving to Kunene River Lodge.