Opuwo
The only town in Kaokoland, where Himba, Herero and modern residents share the same streets; the hub for visiting villages and restocking supplies.
Opuwo is the administrative center of northern Kunene Region, and its name means 'the end' in Herero. The town is small, with supermarkets, petrol stations, banks and handicraft shops lining its main street. Himba women smeared with red ochre, Herero women in cow-horn headdresses and long dresses, and Zemba people all shop here, making it the most culturally vivid street scene in Namibia. Visitors usually hire guides here, buy gifts for village visits and fill up with fuel. Ask before photographing people on the street, as some will ask for a tip.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Himba Villages
- Opuwo Market & Himba Crafts
- Opuwo Country Lodge Viewpoint
- Kunene River at Swartbooisdrif
- Ruacana Falls
- Van Zyl's Pass
- Epupa Falls
- Marienfluss Valley