The Kunene River marks the western end of the 1,427-kilometer border between Angola and Namibia, a frontier that separates the arid landscapes of Namibia from the more tropical regions of southern Angola. This was a heavily militarized frontline during the long Angolan Civil War and the Namibian War of Independence, but today it is a peaceful and increasingly busy corridor.
The main crossing for you is at Oshikango (Namibia) and Santa Clara (Angola). This is a bustling and chaotic border town, a major hub for both formal and informal trade. It lies on the main highway connecting the Namibian capital of Windhoek with the major cities of southern Angola. Several smaller crossings exist, including a scenic one at the Ruacana Falls.
The Oshikango-Santa Clara crossing is an intense and vibrant experience. The town is a maze of shops and markets, with a constant flow of people and goods. The border procedures are formal, and you should be prepared for a thorough process, especially when entering Angola.
This border is a fascinating place to witness post-conflict reconstruction and economic revival. The once-hostile frontier is now a vital economic link, with Namibian goods flowing north and Angolans crossing south to shop and access services. It is a journey through a region that is rapidly transforming.