Situated on the banks of the Kunene River in remote northwest Namibia, Epupa Falls Lodge offers a true wilderness escape beside one of Africa’s most breathtaking waterfalls. This privately-owned eco-lodge seamlessly blends into its surroundings using 90% local materials like Makalani Palms and regional stone. With just 24 guest beds and 40 camping spots, the lodge maintains one of Namibia’s lowest guest footprints while providing intimate access to both the dramatic falls and the indigenous Himba culture. The property combines conservation efforts, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism to create an off-the-beaten-track sanctuary where visitors can truly reconnect with nature.
Their story
Established in 1994 by Koos Verwey, Epupa Falls Lodge pioneered eco-tourism in remote northwest Namibia along the Kunene River. Established in 1994 as Epupa’s oldest lodge, it serves as both a conservation effort and cultural bridge, with one of Namibia’s lowest guest footprints. The lodge has spent three decades cultivating authentic relationships with local Himba communities, offering visitors unique cultural experiences while protecting the region’s riparian vegetation and traditional ways of life. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- Built using 90% local materials, including Makalani Palms and local rocks, the lodge seamlessly integrates with its surroundings.
- The lodge actively preserves the Kunene riparian vegetation and supports Himba cultural conservation.
- Their eco-conscious approach includes water conservation measures and responsible waste management, ensuring the pristine riverbank environment remains protected.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The lodge maintains one of the lowest guest footprints in Namibia, accommodating only 24 guests and approximately 40 campers, which minimizes energy consumption.
- Their eco-friendly approach extends to their dining experience, where they source most fruits and vegetables from their own gardens, reducing transportation energy needs.
- The lodge’s design takes advantage of natural ventilation and lighting, with rooms strategically positioned to minimize energy usage while maximizing guest comfort in the challenging desert climate.
Pioneer in waste management
- The lodge maintains a comprehensive recycling program, separating materials for proper disposal.
- Food waste is composted and used in their on-site vegetable gardens that supply fresh produce to the kitchen.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The lodge grows most fruits and vegetables in their own gardens using natural cultivation methods.
- The kitchen team creates everything from scratch, avoiding processed ingredients and artificial additives.
Actively protects nature and community
- With capacity limited to 24 lodge guests and 40 campers, the lodge maintains one of Namibia’s lowest guest-to-staff ratios, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
- Through authentic cultural experiences and conservation initiatives, the lodge creates meaningful connections between visitors and the local community while safeguarding the region’s natural heritage for future generations.
Most Popular Activities Near Epupa Falls Lodge
- Cultural Himba village experiences with local guides, offering authentic interactions and overnight stays at kraals.
- Guided sunset walks along the Kunene River to observe the Epupa falls and african animals.
- Falls exploration tours with coffee breaks and stunning viewpoints.
- River walks to learn about local birdlife and riparian vegetation.
- Educational tours about Himba traditions, customs and daily life.
- Scenic photography opportunities at various falls viewing decks.
- Swimming in designated river areas and lodge pool.
- Traditional meals featuring locally-grown produce from lodge gardens.
- Relaxing massage treatments by resident masseuse.
- Cultural demonstrations of Himba practices and lifestyle.
Best Time To Visit Epupa Falls Lodge
- The best time to visit Epupa Falls Lodge is from April to mid-July. April marks the end of the rainy season with less muddy roads, and if there’s been good rainfall, waters from Angola reach Epupa by mid-April, making the falls spectacularly beautiful. Temperatures become more pleasant during this period but never reach freezing point, making Namibian winters ideal for visiting.
- From mid-July onwards, the area gets busier with European visitors during school holidays. Easter Weekend and May school holidays are also peak periods, so advance booking is essential.
- The lodge experiences minimal rainfall between November and March, though occasional flash floods can affect road accessibility.