27 May 2023
Plan ahead:
Before you travel to Epupa Falls, research your destination and plan your itinerary carefully. Make sure to include activities and attractions that will appeal to your children, such as rafting, experiencing the Himba culture or if they are a tad bigger, taking a short hike along the Kunene to learn more about the fauna and flora of the area.
Pack appropriately:
Namibia can be hot and dusty, so make sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear, including sun hats, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and insect repellent. And don’t forget that swimming costume! If you’re traveling with younger children, consider bringing a baby carrier and not a stroller. Our sand and rocks will not go well with your stroller.
Stay hydrated:
It’s important to drink plenty of water in Namibia, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure to bring reusable water bottles and refill them regularly. And at this point, we would like to add that some stomach medicines are not a bad option either. Most lodges in Namibia use fresh mineral water from the ground, but in some places, the minerals can be a bit upsetting to the stomach – so you may need to take extra care. Especially when travelling with kids.
Be flexible:
Travelling with kids can be unpredictable, so be prepared to adjust your plans and schedule as needed. Take breaks when necessary and allow time for rest and relaxation. In short, this means that your drive cannot be too long! Use a travel agent to help you plan your trip and book child-friendly accommodations. Don’t think that 200km on a gravel road will take you the same amount of time as a tar road… Please don’t try and do this on your own. And use a travel agent who lives, breathes and understands the Namibian roads.
Consider a self-drive tour:
Renting a car and exploring Namibia on a self-drive tour can be a great option for families. It allows you to set your own pace and stop at attractions and viewpoints along the way. And we highly recommend doing this!
Respect local culture:
Namibia is home to a variety of cultures and traditions – and here at Epupa we have the Himba people that live all around us. It’s important to be respectful and mindful of local customs. Teach your children about the importance of cultural sensitivity and encourage them to ask questions and learn from the local people.
Stay safe:
Namibia is generally a safe country to travel in, but it’s still important to take precautions to keep your family safe. Avoid walking alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and follow local safety guidelines and advice.
Overall, travelling to Namibia with kids can be a wonderful and enriching experience. By planning ahead, staying flexible, and being respectful of local culture, you can create lasting memories for your family.
An informative post re the importance of conservancies and why booking locally is the way forward as opposed to supporting online booking agents like BookingCom.
Travelling to Epupa with Children can be a rewarding and memorable experience for the whole family. Here are some tips and advice by Epupa Falls Lodge.
One of the many reasons to visit Epupa is the incredible variety of trees and plants. Today, we’ll only look at one – the majestic baobabs of Epupa.
