Ruacana: Discover the landscape and history

When searching for a hotel in Ruacana, the town’s history and nearby attractions can serve as two points of reference. The surrounding landscape is shaped by rock formations and a lush river, which contrasts with the dry desert to the south. Sunsets and a diverse birdlife are also part of the area. Ruacana can therefore be viewed from several specific perspectives: nature, a named route and the town’s development.

Waterfalls and the surrounding landscape

According to one description, the Ruacana Falls are about 22 kilometres from the town; the road there offers views of mountains and greenery. At high water, usually in March and April, water pours over the edge, forming an almost continuous curtain. The falls are considered a public recreation area where visitors can relax and explore.

Above the falls, the Kunene branches into several channels and rocky islands before plunging over a V-shaped rock ridge into a 123-metre-deep gorge. The 123 metres refers to the depth of the gorge. According to one description, access is via the Ruacana border post between Namibia and Angola. Check the current access requirements at the border post before travelling.

Route and town history

The Omulunga Palm Route runs along Namibia’s northern border, from Ruacana in the west to Nkurenkuru in the east. It is named after the distinctive palms, which are called Omulunga in Ovambo. Ruacana was built in the early 1970s to house employees of the South West Africa Water and Electricity Commission and officials from the Department of Water Affairs. The history of the Ruacana Falls is also connected with the development of the Ruacana hydroelectric power station.

More topics in the wider Kunene destination

The wider Kunene destination offers other distinct cultural and natural attractions. At Twyfelfontein, the core area was declared a national monument in 1948 and is protected under Namibia’s National Heritage Act of 2004. Most of the rock engravings are estimated to be more than 6,000 years old; the site is estimated to have around 2,500 different rock engravings. A visitor centre welcomes guests.

The wider Kunene region also includes the Petrified Forest: it was declared a national monument on 1 March 1950 and is currently operated as a tourist site under the supervision of the National Heritage Council of Namibia. Check current operating details before visiting.

Travellers can take guided hikes on the Grootberg Plateau. Lodge guides can explain the local flora, the rock formations of the Etendeka Mountains and the wildlife. Those wishing to see Twyfelfontein’s rock engravings can join a guided tour into the Huab River Valley, where they may also see desert-adapted elephants. The focus differs: guided hikes at Grootberg and possible elephant sightings in the Huab River Valley.

Discover more destinations: Otjovasandu, Okaholo

Back to the wider travel overview: Omusati.