Things to Do at Spitzkoppe in Namibia
Rock Climb, Hike, Camp and See Rock Paintings on an African Vacation
Aug 7, 2009
Rising an impressive 700 meters above the flat surface of the Namibian plains, the Spitzkoppe is a well-known landmark in the area between Usakos and the coast and was formed by the collapse of a giant volcano about 100 million years ago. Subsequent erosion exposed the volcanic rock below.
Where in Namibia is the Spitzkoppe
On the B2 road between Usakos and Swakopmund, tourists to Namibia must turn on the D1918 to Henties Bay. After 18 kilometers the D3716, also a gravel road turns towards the Spitzkoppe. This island of granite in the surrounding flat plains can be seen from a great distance and is difficult to miss.
The Gross Spitzkoppe rises approximately 1728 meters above sea level and is a photographers dream. The Pondok Mountains are to the east of the Spitzkoppe and derives its name from the Afrikaans language meaning they resemble African huts. The Klein Spitzkoppe lies about 10 kilometers to the west with the summit at about 1572 meters above sea level according to Sandra and Willie Olivier, An African Adventurer's Guide to Namibia, Struik Publishers, 2003.
Rock Climbing at the Spitzkoppe
The northwest face of the Gross Spitzkoppe was first successfully climbed in 1946 after which no further attempts were made until 10 years later. Only in 1960 did a party of three rock climbers pioneer a route up the precipitous west face.
Sections of the mountain are E-Grade and cater for experienced climbers. Climbing during the summer months are not advised due the extreme temperatures and the risk of injury on the hot rock surfaces. Several tour operators offer guided climbs and abseiling at the Spitzkoppe. These tours vary from 60 meters abseiling to climbing to the summit and involve staying 3 nights on the mountain. Most operators cater for all levels of experience.
Hiking and Rock Art Viewing at the Spitzkoppe
Several rock-painting sites are scattered over the Spitzkoppe and Erongo Mountains. The most popular site is the Bushman's Paradise, which can be reached by following a track eastwards along the base of the Pondok Mountain. After using a chain handhold to climb up the steep smooth slope, the Bushman's Paradise is reached from where tourists have an excellent view of the surrounding arid plains. Although the site has been declared a national monument in 1954, vandals did extensive damage to the rock paintings.
The area in and around the Spitzkoppe lends itself to both short and long walks and avid hikers will be entertained for hours exploring the many facets of the mountains and the astounding array of fauna and flora present.
Camping at the Spitzkoppe, Namibia
The Spitzkoppe Community Tourist Camp offers tourists accommodation by way of secluded campsites, some with ablution facilities, as well as four basic cabins with outside ablution facilities. The campsites are hidden between the boulders of the mountain offering privacy and spectacular views of the mountain and surroundings.
The local community operates a bar and restaurant, but tourists should inquire at the gate about the operating hours. Due to the aridness of the region, tourists who are not self - sufficient in respect of water must pay additional fees for water usage. Bookings can be made through the Nacobta web site.
Other sights to see in the vicinity of the Spitzkoppe are the Rock Paintings at Twyfelfontein and Brandberg, which is 1-2 hours drive away, the historical buildings of Swakopmund and other tourist attractions around Swakopmund, also about 1-2 hours drive away.
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