Kaokoland

Pros & Cons

• Great wilderness experience
• Stunning desert scenery
• Opportunity to see rare desert elephants
• Opportunity to visit a Himba village
• Low densities and variety of wildlife
• Very remote destination
• Few accommodation options
• Very hot climate

Wildlife

There is very little wildlife in Kaokoland. There are desert elephants, but sightings are not easy. Visitors are likely to spot some springbok and a good number of oryx. Watching these majestic antelope, walking through the desert landscape with no greenery in sight, is one of nature’s marvels.

• More about Kaokoland's wildlife

Scenery

Most of Kaokoland is true desert set within incredible mountain scenery. The environment can be somewhat challenging to the eye in the midday sun. However, when the sun rises and sets and the ripples in the sand glow in an orange-red cast among the deep shadows falling over the dunes, it’s impossible not to appreciate the stark beauty.

Weather & Climate

Kaokoland’s desert environment is subject to a vast range of temperatures. It has a well-defined summer (November to April) and winter (May to October). Winter sees little rain, and higher temperatures as the season progresses. Summer is hot and punctuated by thunderstorms.

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Best Time to Visit

Kaokoland’s climate is most pleasant during the Dry season months April to September. The landscape is always spectacular, but it turns beautifully green during the Wet season (November to April). Wildlife viewing is hit-and-miss at any time of year. The only exception is birdlife, which is in migratory abundance when the rains come.

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Want to Visit Kaokoland?

• Kaokoland safaris and tours
• Tour operators for Kaokoland