In the far northwest, The Kaokoveld is one of Africa’s last true wildernesses and Namibia at its most enticing, yet most inhospitable. The Kaokoveld is different – so removed from civilisation that it is difficult to relate – a fragile ecosystem easily scarred yet unforgiving in climate and meagre in resources to sustain life.
Stretching from the camelthorn strewn Hoanib riverbed in the South, to the unexpectedly verdant Kunene River in the remote North, this extraordinary, yet largely unknown landscape incorporates the iconic Skeleton Coast, one of the planets most unforgettable places. This is a region of extremes in all senses of the word.
Vegetation is largely confined to the ephemeral watercourses and occasional ancient mountain springs. Away from the river, however, plant growth is minimal and dependent on highly sporadic rainfall. The landscape is one of endless gravel plains, granitic outcrops almost lunar in semblance and Gondwanaland like mountains. Wildlife is thinly dispersed and follows an eternal cycle of feast and famine. It includes the ever-elusive desert adapted elephant, Hartmann's mountain zebra, gemsbok, springbok, the occasional lion and cheetah and Nile crocodile in the Kunene.
Himba villages are situated around springs that seep out from dry riverbeds. The Himba tribe are a cattle-herding culture, characterised by red ochre adornment and animal skin apparel. The beautiful women parade intricate hairstyles and are adorned from birth in exquisite, traditional jewellery. Experiencing this culture is enchanting and humbling
A region of extremes, where the harsh midday light gives way to subdued pastel afternoon colours softening even the most rugged of rock formations. A vast swathe of country, abundant in its emptiness, the Kaokoveld is truly the back of beyond.
