The Masai-like Himba people of Kaokoland have retained their traditional semi-nomadic lifestyle. Their land is harsh, inhospitable and fascinating, creating a delicate balance between survival and obliteration.

The Opuwo Country Hotel (also known as Opuwo Country Lodge) overlooking the untouched wilderness, provides a comfortable base from which to explore this beguiling region and to discover the secrets of its proud inhabitants. The lodge is also an excellent base for exploring the Kunene River and the far flung moonscape of valleys, mountains and ravines.

The luxury hotel opened late in 2005, and the rooms are all air conditioned and have en suite bathrooms. It's certainly not luxury compared to other high-end lodges throughout Namibia, but in these parts it's the most luxurious option there is and given the setting it's more than suitable. The air-conditioning alone takes the win.

The main living area houses the bar, restaurant, lounge, wine cellar, curio shop and a large verandah with a view that starts at the pool, sweeps over a mopane-covered valley, and ends in a haze of mountains.

Opuwo means "finished" or "up to here and no further" but really you can continue to the more northern reaches of Namibia from here and if you are heading in that direction, then you are almost certainly guaranteed to stay here along the way.