Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
To reach the falls, turn north 15km west of Ruacana and follow the signs towards the
border crossing. To visit the gorge, visitors must temporarily exit Namibia by signing the
immigration register. From the Namibian border crossing, bear left (to the right lies the
decrepit Angolan border crossing) to the end of the road. There you can look around the
ruins of the old power station, which was destroyed by Namibian liberation forces. The
buildings are pockmarked with scars from mortar rounds and gunfire, providing a stark
contrast to the otherwise peaceful scene.
Sleeping
Hippo Pools Camp Site $
( 270120; campsite per person N$50)
Also known as Otjipahuriro, this community-run
campsite sits alongside the river and has a good measure of shade and privacy. There are
also
braai
pits, hot showers and environmentally friendly pit toilets. Local community
members can organise trips to Ruacana Falls or to nearby Himba villages for a small fee.
CAMPGROUND
Ruacana Eha Lodge $$$
( 271500;
www.ruacanaehalodge.com.na
; Springbom Ave; campsite per person N$70,
huts per person N$220, s/d N$775/1080; )
This upmarket lodge appeals to travel-
lers of all budgets by offering manicured campsites and rustic A-frame huts alongside its
polished rooms. An attractive oasis in the middle of Ruacana, the Eha Lodge is high-
lighted by its lush gardens and refreshing plunge pool.
LODGE
Getting There & Away
Ruacana is near the junction of roads between Opuwo, Owambo country and the rough
4WD route along the Kunene River to Swartbooi's Drift. Note that mileage signs along
the C46 confuse Ruacana town and the power plant, which are 15km apart. Both are sign-
posted 'Ruacana' - don't let them throw you too badly.
For westbound travellers, the 24-hour petrol station is the last before the Atlantic; it's
also the terminal for afternoon minibuses to and from Oshakati and Ondangwa, costing
around N$30.
