The rust-coloured mountains rise in all directions as the last rays of sunlight touch the
earth. The rocky red earth is covered with makalani palms and baobab trees that cling to the edges of a canyon. As the day gives way to the night it is only the sound of rushing water that testifies to the beauty of the location.
One of the most beautiful characteristics of Namibia is probably the vast open
landscapes that are defined by kilometres of nothing. Or so it might seem. In the far
northern stretches of the country just before you think the end of the world is finally
reached, a cascading sheet of water plunges 37 meters into an abyss. Himba women
and children walk around the edges of the Cunene River, washing clothes and even
bathing. The Epupa falls is one of Namibia’s grandest waterfalls although it cannot
compare with the mighty Victoria Falls in size, it is a must-see!
Photo credits: Janke Murray
The Epupa Falls is also known as the Monte Negro Falls in Angola and consists of a
series of large waterfalls formed by the Cunene River. At the falls the river is
approximately 0.5 km wide and drops in a series of waterfalls for about 1.5 km. The
Cunene River forms the border between Namibia and Angola and is one of five perennial
rivers in Namibia – yes Namibia might be a desert, but we do have some water! Although
this area of Namibia seems uninhabited and it is home to the Ovahimba people. In their
native tongue, Herero, Epupa means foam or falling water, which describes the falls
perfectly.
Photo credits: Janke Murray
To reach the Epupa Falls, tourists must travel the northwards to Opuwo. This is the last
town where the local people can buy food or intermingle with tourists and the outside
world. Although they still live in their traditional houses with their traditional culture, the
effects of globalization are certainly fascinating as tradition and modernity meet in this
tiny metropolis. From Opuwo onwards the dusty road to Epupa takes about 3 hours. But
at the end of the road, one is greeted with a spectacular sight of water and life. The
environment is breathtaking almost like a set of a National Geographic article.
Photo credits: Janke Murray
The falls create a memorable spectacle of indigenous plants and a landscape like no
other place in the world. This a place where one can sit back and relax while hearing the
rush of the water and the birds chirping. It is a photographer’s jungle! For the brave and
adventurous the crocodile tours, whitewater rafting, and cultural outings are a must!
This isolated region at the edge of the world is one of Namibia’s wildest frontiers!
Author: Janke Murray