Sunset cruise near Kunene River Lodge

Relaxing activity after river rafting near Kunene River Lodge

We are cruising in a flat-bottomed barge

We sail upstream Kunene River in a flat-bottomed barge. The river forms the - now peaceful - border between Namibia and Angola. The temperature reaches approx. 33 C even though it is in the middle of winter here in the southern hemisphere. The wind from the speed feels comfortable.

Sunset cruise, near Kunene River Lodge
Namibia 2019

On the river banks, we see Nile crocodiles. It is the most common crocodile in Africa, but despite its name, it is now extinct in the Nile. Nostrils and eyes sit on top of the animal so it can see and breathe when submerged. At this time of year, they spend much of their time on the riverbank, gathering energy from the sun. They are carnivores. They tear the prey and swallow the large pieces of meat whole. They catch their prey when it comes down to drinking.

Nile crocodine, Namibia 2019

We also see monotor lizards (Nile monitor). Actually, right next to our tent at Kunene River Lodge, we have a 1.4 meter long Nile monitor living in the dense vegetation along the river. If you push it up in a corner, it can get aggressive, so we don't do that when it sneaks around in our camp. The mouth contains dangerous bacteria and poison. It eats everything. Video with our "campsite monitor".

Our campsite, just next to Kunene River
Kunene River  Lodge, Namibia 2019

The captain routinely manages all the hidden rocks and sandbanks. After the hectic river rafting earlier this day (link), it's great to be on the river at a more steady pace!

Railing on boat adapted for drinks!
Kunene River Lodge, Namibia 2019

The captain pulls onto a sandy shore on the Angola side of the river and asks if anyone wants drinks? We go for G & T's in this “British” boat. Then we continue upriver until we are close to the big rapid, where I got a great swim and diving experience drinking a lot of Kunene River earlier that day.

Earlier same day close to difficult rapid. Kunene River, Namibia 2019.

Heading back, we see the most amazing sunset over Kunene River from the banks of Angola. It is absolutely enchanting. The bats fly around our ears. Drinks are refilled and the atmosphere is relaxed and festive. There are many interesting people on the trip and it is fun to talk to different nationalities.
Now it's dark when we sail back downriver. The captain avoids rocks and sandbanks. The air is cooler now.

Idylic sunset cruise at Kunene River, Namibia 2019

Sunset Kunene River, Namibia 2019

We see the lights from Kunene River Lodge in the distance. What a nice trip. Now we look forward to the three course menu on the wooden deck next to the river. It's not pure survival traveling in Africa ;-)

Dinner is served! Kunene River Lodge, Namibia 2019