BUCKET LIST FOR THIS REGION
- Visit the Damara Living Museum
- Witness the awe-inspiring granite peaks and star-filled skies of Spitzkoppe
- Explore ancient rock engravings at Twyfelfontein
- See desert-adapted elephants meander along the dry Ugab River
- Wonder about the enigmatic Messum Crater, with its concentric hills
- Climb Namibia’s highest mountain, the Brandberg
Top attractions in the area
At the heart of this region lies Twyfelfontein, Namibia’s inaugural World Heritage Site, boasting an abundance of ancient rock engravings. Amidst its wonders, one discovers the majestic Brandberg, adorned with ancient San rock art and offering formidable backpacking adventures, alongside the Petrified Forest, Burnt Mountain, Organ Pipes, the iconic Spitzkoppe, and the rugged beauty of the Erongo Mountains, each a testament to the rich tapestry of nature and history in this captivating land.
TWYFELFONTEIN AND SURROUNDINGS
Twyfelfontein was Namibia’s first World Heritage Site (since 2007). It is an expansive open-air art gallery captivating rock-art connoisseurs. Housing over 2,000 rock engravings, dating back approximately 6,000 years, it stands as one of Africa’s largest and most significant concentrations of rock art. Contemporary research suggests that these engravings were crafted by San medicine people, or shamans, delving into altered states of consciousness for spiritual connection, to invite the rain or heal the sick. Nearby, the Petrified Forest preserves the remnants of a cataclysmic event, where ancient tree trunks turned to stone millions of years ago. Today the Namib’s living fossil plant, Welwitschia mirabilis, grows among these fossilised trunks. South of Twyfelfontein is the Burnt Mountain, a panorama of desolation with colourful rocks contrasting vividly with the grey-black mountain. The Organ Pipes, a mass of vertical basalt columns in a ravine gouged out by a river, is another geological curiosity in the area. Southwest of Twyfelfontein is the Doros Crater, where fossil remains have been found among the rocks.
VINGERKLIP
Dominating the landscape when travelling westwards en route to Khorixas, 95 km west of Outjo is the Vingerklip (Finger Rock) situated amongst the rugged Ugab Terraces. About 35 metres high, this distinctive monolith was shaped by erosion spanning many millennia.
MESSUM CRATER
In the southwestern expanse of the Brandberg, lies the remarkable Messum Crater, which is part of an igneous ring complex on a once active volcano the centre of which collapsed. Dating back some 130 million years, this geological marvel, rich in quartz-rich basalt, stretches 18 to 25 km in diameter. It is surrounded by a ring-shaped range of hills and is home to fine specimens of the ancient desert plant Welwitschia mirabilis. The Messum Crater is a vestige of the Etendeka period, and is regarded as a volcanic feature within the Goboboseb Mountains.
En route to Messum, don’t miss the captivating lichen fields, which play an important role in stabilising the upper layer of soil, augmenting the ecosystem in the Namib desert.
The western part of Messum lies in Dorob National Park and you will need a permit, obtainable at the Henties Bay Tourism Association or the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism offices.
SPITZKOPPE
The rugged Brandberg massif presents a formidable challenge to hikers, notably its highest peak, Königstein, standing at 2,573 metres and marking the zenith of Namibia’s landscape. The Senegalia montis-usti trees, conspicuous in the Brandberg valley, are endemic to this region.
In this imposing terrain the renowned White Lady rock painting nestles in Maack’s Shelter in the picturesque Tsisab Gorge. Named after the surveyor who first documented it in 1918, Maack’s Shelter offers a glimpse into ancient artistry amid a backdrop of sprawling rock formations, remnants of ancient landslides. Although the figure of the White Lady, surrounded by paintings of numerous animals, has faded over the years, a pilgrimage to see it is well worth the effort. Walks to the shelter are conducted daily by National Heritage Council (NHC) guides from 08h00 until 16h30 when the last walk departs. The round-trip takes around two-and-a half hours and is best done early in the morning. This massive outdoor gallery has been nominated for proclamation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Spanning 8,083 square kilometres, the Tsiseb Conservancy, encompassing the Uis and Brandberg environments, is the second-largest conservancy in Namibia. For travellers passing through the nearby town of Uis, the Multi-Purpose Information Centre offers a gateway to the region’s wonders, providing essential amenities and facilitating connections with Dâureb Mountain Guides for those inclined to conquer the Brandberg’s peaks. To preserve the extremely rich rock painting heritage of the Brandberg, hikers planning to ascend the mountain must be accompanied by a guide provided by the NHC. The guides know the mountain intimately, including where to find water which can be a challenge for those unfamiliar with the Brandberg.
In order to preserve the ecological and cultural marvel of the Brandberg, you’ll need a letter of permission issued by the NHC to hike, camp, research or film on the mountain. To request these permissions, contact the NHC at www.nhc-nam.org or (+264) 61 244 375.
Towns in the region
KHORIXAS
Khorixas, the unofficial capital of the former Damaraland, is a useful stopover for refuelling your vehicle and stocking up on basic supplies. While the town itself may not boast many attractions, its surroundings feature rare rock formations, ancient engravings, and peculiar geological wonders, attracting geologists and travellers alike. Khorixas serves as a gateway to the iconic Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock engravings. The Petrified Forest with tree trunks over 300 million years old is situated about 40 kilometres west of Khorixas.
UIS
Uis is renowned for abundant mineral resources. Positioned at the base of Namibia’s tallest peak, the Brandberg, Uis boasts proximity to the renowned White Lady rock painting, believed by some to date back over 20,000 years. Uis is located on the C36, a pivotal route linking the coast to the Damaraland hinterland.
OMARURU
Omaruru, situated in central Namibia, serves as a remarkable example of a town continually rejuvenating itself and prospering in the process. Emerging as a vibrant hub for a dynamic community of artists in recent years, it is a small town with grand aspirations. Like many towns in Namibia, it started as a mission station. Missionary Hugo Hahn was the first European to set foot here. When Omaruru was besieged by Herero forces during the Herero/German war, it was freed by Captain Victor Franke and his men. The Franke Tower, built to commemorate this event, was inaugurated in 1908. The oldest building in Omaruru, the Old Rhenish Mission House, now serves as the town museum. In 1907 Omaruru officially acquired municipality status. By this time Willi Wronsky had built his residence, today’s Wronsky House, at the north end of Wilhelm Zeraua Road; the small Roman Catholic Church on Wilhelm Zeraua Road had been built and dedicated by then; and the Omaruru River had run above ground throughout the entire winter that year, most unusual in this dry part of the country. Every year the artists’ community of Omaruru presents an Artists’ Trail. The open studios and outdoor exhibits draw visitors to Namibia from around Southern Africa and beyond. During 2009 the Omuntu Garden was opened with an exhibition of over 50 sculptures by five Namibian sculptors. The creator of Omuntu, Hanne Alpers, maintains the garden as a permanent display area for sculptural art. Omuntu means ‘human being’ in Oshiwambo.
Local crafts and small industries
On the south-western edge of town you will find Tikoloshe Afrika, a vibrant gallery and workshop where visitors can watch award-winning woodcarvers in action. In an open-air studio they transform weather-worn roots and tree trunks into unique sculptures of animals, varying in size from 10 cm to 10 metres high. Since June 2004, the Kristall Kellerei in Omaruru has been distilling its own brandy. It also produces wines. A range of schnapps is distilled from prickly pears, prosopis roots, lemons and, naturally, grapes. Well worth a visit is the Erongo Mountain Winery situated on the fringe of town along the Omaruru River. The boutique winery is open for personal tours and tastings of their interesting and innovative wines and spirits.
Rock paintings
The Erongo Mountains and the area surrounding Omaruru are extremely rich in rock paintings; among them is Omandumba Guest Farm. At Etemba there are six main sites with rock paintings. The largest of these is the Etemba Cave, where a large number depict humans and animals.
KARIBIB
Karibib is situated on the Khan River halfway between Windhoek and Swakopmund. The town exists mostly due to the railroad development between the coast and inland Namibia. The Karibib railway building is a national monument. Places of interest in the town include the Old Station building; Hälbich House and the Henckert Tourist centre.
This town is well-known for its aragonite marble quarries and gold mining activities. Karibib, with its rich history was originally no more than an unknown waterhole belonging to the West-Hereros. The waterhole and surrounding 20 000 hectares were sold by the Herero headman of Otjimbingwe to Eduard Hälbich of Otjimbingwe.
OTJIMBINGWE
South of Karibib lies a small, weathered village known as Otjimbingwe, its name hinting at its origins as a “place of refreshment” next to the Omusema River’s spring. Despite its current state of obscurity, Otjimbingwe held significant importance during the era of German colonial rule in Deutsch-Südwestafrika, when it was established as the administrative hub. It hosted a mission station from 1849 and witnessed the construction of its first church in 1867. Notable remnants of its colonial past include the Hälbich Trading Store, the historic Rhenish Mission Church, and the Powder Magazine, built in 1872 as a defence against Nama attacks. The town’s legacy also includes the old Windmill, which once powered a wagon factory owned by the Hälbich family. However, with the relocation of Curt von Francois’s garrison to Windhoek in 1890 and the bypassing of Otjimbingwe by the railway line connecting Windhoek and Swakopmund, completed in the early 1900s, the village gradually declined into obscurity.
USAKOS
The small sun-baked town of Usakos in the Khan River valley developed around a station on the old narrow- gauge railway built in 1900. Beyond Usakos is the Trekkopje Battlefield, site of one of the most important battles fought during the short-lived 1915 campaign waged by South Africa against German forces. The Erongo Mountains north of the town are renowned for the rock art found at various sites. A popular stopover for visitors to and from the coast, the Namib Oasis farm stall is well known for its homemade biltong and droëwors, home-cooked meals and handmade gifts.
KAMANJAB
While Kamanjab may not boast significant tourist attractions, its Pots of Hope project is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Spearheaded by Alexia /Naris, this initiative brings together a group of talented rural women and young individuals, pooling their skills to craft exquisite handmade pottery. The project offers support to marginalised women and girls facing economic hardship or abuse. Through their creative endeavours, these women generate income and empowerment.
SESFONTEIN
Sesfontein, set between mountains in the Hoanib Valley, marks the northern edge of Damaraland. The name “Sesfontein” stems from the six nearby springs that provide its water source. Not far from the warm springs of Warmquelle lies Sesfontein Fort. Once a desolate ruin on the verge of collapse, it has since been restored and adapted to welcome tourists. The palm trees within the fort were planted by colonial German police officers who once patrolled the area to combat smuggling and poaching. Nearby, Signal Hill offers a panoramic vista and once hosted a heliograph station erected by German troops.
The Damara
Anthropologists have long puzzled over the origins of the Damara people, with several intriguing facets still shrouded in mystery. Notably, despite their physical distinctions from the Nama and Hai||om peoples, the Damara share the Khoekhoegowab language, adding complexity to their ancestral lineage. Additionally, apart from being dark-skinned, they differ from other Namibian populations of Bantu origin with various other characteristics.
Together with the San, the Damara are one of the oldest nations in Namibia and their origins are unrecorded. Historically, Damara sustenance mirrored that of the San, relying on hunting, gathering veld food, and herding small stock, particularly goats.
The Damara community consists of a number of subdivisions called haoti. These are clusters of clans and extended families that were formerly concentrated in specific areas, consisting of about 11 sub-groups. Phonological research of Khoekhoegowab dialects has provided evidence that the Damara were Khoe- speakers before they came into contact with the Nama. Their original distribution in the central part of Namibia extended from Otavi southwards to Rehoboth and the Khomas Hochland west of Windhoek as well as the areas between the Kuiseb and Swakop rivers. Other areas inhabited by the Damara include the Tsumeb, Grootfontein and Otavi triangle, as well as the arid pro- Namib from Sesfontein southward to the Brandberg.
The Damara were ousted from their traditional areas by the advancing Nama and Ovaherero. In German colonial times they were settled in the Okombahe area, as well as other smaller reserves, including land that was subsequently proclaimed as the Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, west of Windhoek. An area of close to 4.7 million hectares was proclaimed as Damaraland by the South African administration in 1973, with Khorixas as its administrative capital. Following independence, this area became part of the Erongo Region.
EXPERIENCING DAMARA CULTURE
Explore the authentic way of life of the Damara people at the Damara Living Museum, conveniently located just 8 km from the Twyfelfontein World Heritage Site. Delve into the desert existence of the Damara and discover the ingenious methods they employed for daily tasks, from using native plants as toothbrushes to traditional remedies for ailments predating modern medicine. Immerse yourself in a captivating re-creation of bygone eras, offering a hands-on interpretation of history. This unique experience provides insight into how ancient cultures thrived, relying on profound knowledge of the land and the resources offered by the natural environment. By visiting a living museum, you are actively contributing to preserving the traditional wisdom of indigenous cultures while assisting communities in generating income from their rich heritage.
The annual Damara Festival, a vibrant two-day event held at Okombahe, approximately 60 km west of Omaruru, happens every November. This festival pays tribute to departed Damara leaders and endeavours to instil awareness of Damara traditions among younger generations through captivating cultural performances. It’s a celebration of heritage and a testament to the resilience and richness of the Damara culture.
Top adventures in the area
HIKING
Experience the untouched beauty of Damaraland wilderness on foot with the Etendeka Hiking Trails. This unique offering from the Etendeka Lodge Company takes you through the northwest’s remote landscape, where you traverse the terrain on foot. Be prepared to be awed by ancient rock formations or marvel at the desert-adapted plants and wildlife. Sleep under the stars and enjoy the rustic campsites while immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the area.
CYCLING
Embark on a truly transformative journey with the RMB & Wilderness Ride for Rhinos, a cycling tour that winds its way through the rugged terrain of Namibia’s Damaraland. The tour raises funds and awareness for Save the Rhino Trust and Children in the Wilderness, where riders can contribute to the fight against poaching and safeguard the region’s black rhino population. Throughout Namibia, lodges stand ready to cater to cycling enthusiasts, offering a myriad of mountain-bike trails that wind through breathtaking landscapes. For those seeking an adrenaline-fuelled adventure, some lodges provide e-bikes and fat bikes with wide tyres, ideal for exploring the vast desert expanses with ease. In the picturesque Erongo Region, Ai Aiba Lodge beckons adventurers to explore its stunning landscapes at their own pace with a network of mountain biking trails. You can rent an e-bike or bring your own mountain bike. For the ultimate fun, you can join the annual 3-day mountain biking event, Ride the Erongos, held every February at Ai Aiba Lodge. Find out more at www.aiaiba-namibia.com
ZIP LINING
The 15th longest zip line in the world is found at Ugab Terrace Lodge, offering an exciting adrenaline-filled adventure for all ages. From an aerial vantage point you can take in the panoramic views and scenery of this region.
ROCK CLIMBING
Spitzkoppe is considered the pinnacle rock climbing destination in Namibia, captivating adventurers with its rugged beauty and unparalleled challenges. Boasting a diverse array of over 100 routes etched into sculpted rock faces, climbers are treated to a playground of adrenaline-pumping ascents against the backdrop of blazing red sunsets and sweeping vistas that stretch into the vast expanse of the Namib desert. Even the most accessible routes present formidable challenges, requiring skill, determination, and a keen eye for route finding. This magical area attracts climbers all over the world and yet you will still find uncrowded climbing routes and pure wilderness.
Accommodation
DAMARALAND & SURROUNDINGS
A region rich in history and wildlife, where ancient art can be found and prehistoric mega-fauna roams.
- Hoada Camp
- Grootberg Lodge
- Ondudu Safari Lodge
- Khorixas Restcamp
- Hohenstein Lodge
- Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp
- Big Sky Lodges
7a. Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge
7b. Etendeka Mountain Camp & Walking Trails - Chiwani Safari Camps
8a. Mowani Mountain Camp
8b. Camp Kipwe
8c. Mowani Campsite
Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp
Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp Nestled between boulders of a granite outcrop, Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp in the Aba Huab Valley is conveniently situated only a ten-minute drive from the Twyfelfontein rock engravings and near the Damara Living Museum. Guests can choose between two different tent categories, each offering comfort and a unique experience. The combined main areas
Ondudu Safari Lodge
Ondudu Safari Lodge Just 14 kilometres west of the small town of Omaruru you will find The Ondudu Safari Lodge, nestled amongst the rugged granite koppies (hills) of the lower Erongo Mountains. The area is also well- known for its excellent hiking trails, where you can take a relaxing stroll or go on a guided
Mowani Mountain Camp
Mowani Mountain Camp At Mowani Mountain Camp, tranquillity and inner calm awaits you. Take in the breathtaking views across the boulder- strewn landscape from the decks of our 12 View Rooms. Cocooned in the rocks is the Mini Suite, whilst the Luxury Room overlooks the valley – both offer even more comfort with air conditioning
Mowani Campsite
Mowani Campsite Mowani Campsite provides seven sites, all boasting breathtaking views. Nestled among the boulders, each site ensures privacy and features electricity, ablution facilities, a kitchen area, braai (BBQ) facilities, and a shaded area with a bench. Additionally, guests have access to a small shop for essentials and enjoy a refreshing swim in the swimming
Khorixas Restcamp
Khorixas Restcamp In the heart of arid central Namibia, between Swakopmund and Etosha National Park, lies Khorixas Restcamp, a port of call that provides a relaxing environment for travellers weary after a day’s exploration. Near Khorixas is the Burnt Mountain, the Petrified Forest and the famous accumulation of rock engravings at Twyfelfontein, Namibia’s first UNESCO
Hohenstein Lodge
Hohenstein Lodge The Hohenstein Lodge is located at the foot of the highest peak of the Erongo Mountains. In the evening, spectacular sunsets bathe the mountain in fantastic red light. The view over the vast landscape extends as far as the Spitzkoppe peak, protruding as a prominent relief from the plain. The lodge is the
Hoada Camp
Hoada Camp Hidden amongst large grey granite boulders and flourishing mopane trees, Hoada Campsite is situated on the #Khoadi//Hoas Conservancy close to Grootberg Lodge and just 75 kilometres from Kamanjab. It is another effort on the part of the community to raise funds for their people and showcase this isolated and unspoiled wilderness, with gratifying
Grootberg Lodge
Grootberg Lodge Grootberg Lodge is the flagship of the Journeys Namibia portfolio, the first middle-market establishment to be wholly owned by a conservancy and hosted by members of the rural community. Situated on the edge of the Etendeka Plateau, the views across the Klip River Valley will awe you as you enjoy drinks on the
Etendeka Mountain Camp
Etendeka Mountain Camp & Hiking Trails Etendeka Mountain Camp Set in the foothills of the Grootberg massif in northern Damaraland, this property appeals to the traveller who is prepared to step outside of their comfort zone and experience this remote wilderness with its harsh beauty in an authentic way. Here one is reminded that we
Camp Kipwe
Camp Kipwe Nestled against ochre boulders with views to the Aba Huab Valley, lies Camp Kipwe. Stepping into one of our 9 dome-shaped bungalows, you will feel like you are entering a cool, serene cave, with your unique private outdoor bathroom tucked into the rocks. Relax on your veranda, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscape.
Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge
Ai-Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge The Erongo Region of Namibia is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical significance. The ancient rock paintings scattered throughout the Erongo mountain range offers a window into the lives of the San people, who have inhabited these lands for over two millennia.Nestled within this breathtaking landscape is
Community Campsites in this region
A community campsite is a type of camping facility managed and operated by local communities, often in collaboration with conservation organizations or tourism bodies. These campsites are designed to offer tourists a more immersive and culturally enriching experience, while also providing economic benefits to the locals.
- Nestled between the huge boulders in the magnificent mountain world of the Spitzkoppe is the Spitzkoppe Rest Camp.
- Ozohere Campsite is located between and around huge boulders under shady trees, on the banks of the Ugab River between Khorixas and Uis.
- The Aba-Huab Campsite is a busy, bustling campsite located 9 km from the Twyfelfontein rock engravings.
- Doro !Nawas Granietkop Campsite, 20 km southeast of Twyfelfontein, offers exclusive, private sites in alcoves created by granite boulders.
- Situated near the town of Kamanjab, Hoada Campsite is surrounded by golden-yellow grass and mopane trees, boulders and birdsong.
- Fonteine Community Restcamp can be found in the Twyfelfontein area of Damaraland. It offers campsites to travellers passing through.
