Plizio Visual Lab

Epupa Falls

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Epupa Falls, located in the remote Kunene Region of northern Namibia, are a spectacular natural wonder formed by the Kunene River as it marks the border with Angola. Unlike many other waterfalls, Epupa is an oasis of lush vegetation in an otherwise arid, rocky landscape. The river drops about 37 meters through a series of cascades and rocky ravines, creating a mist that sustains a unique microclimate. The area is characterized by majestic baobab trees clinging to the cliffs and ancient fan palms (Hyphaene petersiana) lining the riverbanks, which give the falls their name, 'Epupa' means 'falling water' in the Herero language. This region is also the ancestral home of the semi-nomadic Himba people, whose traditional lifestyle adds a profound cultural dimension to the area. For travelers, the falls offer not only sweeping views and photography opportunities but also a chance to experience one of the most untouched and serene wilderness areas in Southern Africa.

Location: Namibia
Nearby: Epupa Falls (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	25	25	25	23	20	20	23	25	27	27	26
Rain mm	90	107	151	35	1	0	0	0	1	12	43	47

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The waterfalls in the far north of Namibia are reached via gravel roads and partly sandy tracks, mostly from Opuwo. The journey takes time, and the road conditions can be rough.

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Best season

The falls are most impressive after the rainy season (mostly April/May) when the Kunene river carries a lot of water. They are attractive year-round, though with significantly less volume in the dry season.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain around the falls consists of rough rocks and gorges, partly shaded by baobab and palm trees. Footpaths to the viewpoints on the edge are uneven and unfenced.

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What to bring

Good hiking shoes for scrambling on the rocks are very important. Ample drinking water, strong sunscreen, and insect repellent for the evening hours should definitely be packed.

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Parking

There is parking directly at the lodges and campsites located near the waterfalls. From there, you can easily reach the viewpoints on foot.

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Safety

Caution is advised on the slippery rock edges; there are hardly any railings at the precipice. Also, you should not swim in the river, as crocodiles are generally resident there.

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Time needed

Visitors usually plan 1 to 2 nights in one of the camps to experience the falls at sunrise and sunset. A walking tour around the falls generally takes 1 to 2 hours.

Geography

Coordinates

-17.00000, 13.20000

Facts

Located on the Kunene River border between Namibia and Angola.
The river slices a deep gorge through hard ancient quartzite and schist.
The topography drops suddenly by roughly 37 meters at the fault line.
The fault causes the river to splinter into dozens of cascading falls.
Creates a deep, humid gorge supporting a lush, tropical microclimate.
Surrounded immediately by incredibly barren, steep rocky hills.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Epupa Falls5 km · NExplore →

Baynes Mountains70 km · SExplore →

Kunene River81 km · SExplore →

Marienfluss Valley89 km · SExplore →

Hartmann Mountains95 km · SWExplore →

Iona National Park103 km · SExplore →

Cunene113 km · SExplore →

Curoca121 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the waterfall worth visiting?

Yes, especially at sunset.

Are there crocodiles?

Yes, be careful in the river.

Can one camp there?

Yes, right by the river.

How is the road?

Gravel, sometimes challenging.

Do I need a visa?

Common for Namibia tourists.

Epupa Falls: where is it located?

Epupa Falls is located in Namibia.

Epupa Falls: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Epupa Falls: why is it worth visiting?

The Epupa Falls, located in the remote Kunene Region of northern Namibia, are a spectacular natural wonder formed by the Kunene River as it marks the border with Angola.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →