From Twyfelfontein you take the D2612 to the C39 and, after 43 kilometres, turn north onto the C43. After about 114 kilometres you reach Palmwag, where there is a veterinary fence check. Fill up in Palmwag, where the fuel station is considered reliable. In Sesfontein travellers have found the pumps dry. On 6 January 2026 a traveller reported a severe washout on the C43 between Twyfelfontein and Palmwag, right behind a crest and without a warning sign. No repair has been reported, so take the crests there slowly.
From Palmwag it is about 110 kilometres on the C43 and finally the D3706 to Sesfontein. Then almost 150 kilometres remain to Opuwo. In between lies the Joubert Pass, where the C43 is paved in places; otherwise it is gravel. Plans to tar it have existed since 2016. Expect gravel for the whole stage, as of October 2026.
For just over 370 kilometres of gravel, plan on six to seven hours of actual driving. In February 2026 one traveller reported that 80 to 90 km/h was possible on the C roads in the north, but at least one rental company caps you at 80 on gravel, even where a sign says 100. In Opuwo the state-owned Namcor opened a fuel station in December 2022. The gravel streets in town itself were in poor condition in November 2025.
Our tipLeave early and split the day into three parts: Palmwag, Sesfontein, Opuwo. At each stop check your tank and the time, because this is not a road you want to be driving after dark.
The route at a glance
- Roads
- D2612, C39, C43, D3706, C43
- Distance
- 371 km
- Surface
- about 0 km tar, 371 km gravel
- Driving time
- 6 to 7 hours
- Fuel on the way
- Palmwag, Opuwo
Distances and times as of October 2026, driving time without stops or detours.
Places to stay in Opuwo and Kaokoveld
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Opuwo Country Lodge Campsite
Kaokoveld
- Pool
- Spa
- Breakfast
- Restaurant
from €36per night on 23 November 2026
Check prices on trivagoTwyfelfontein to Opuwo: frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Twyfelfontein to Opuwo?
Twyfelfontein to Opuwo via Palmwag and Sesfontein is just over 370 kilometres, almost all of it gravel. Allow six to seven hours of actual driving.
Where can I refuel between Twyfelfontein and Opuwo?
Between Twyfelfontein and Opuwo the best place to refuel is Palmwag, whose fuel station is considered reliable. Travellers have found no fuel in Sesfontein, and Opuwo has a Namcor fuel station.
Is the C43 to Opuwo tarred?
The C43 via Palmwag and Sesfontein to Opuwo is gravel, with paved sections only at the Joubert Pass. Plans to tar it have existed since 2016, but as of October 2026 it is still a gravel road.