Overview
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About Spitzkoppe
Spitzkoppe is an impressive group of red granite rock formations, located in the Namib desert of Namibia. Its name Spitzkoppe literally translates from German to ‘pointed dome’. The peaks are around 700 million years old and stand out dramatically from the vast surrounding plains. The highest peak, also known as Gross Spitzkoppe, is about 700 meters high from the desert floor and rises about 1784m above sea level. It is often referred to as the Matterhorn of Namibia. Other famous peaks on the site are Little Spitzkoppe and the Pontok Mountain.
Before Namibia became a German colony, the Khoisan people, also known as Bushman, used to live in Spitzkoppe. They roamed across southern Africa as nomads, but often stayed in Spitzkoppe for longer periods. They communicated through illustrations on the rocks, using the blood of animals. To this day, you can still see these rock paintings in Spitzkoppe.
Not only is it a beautiful and impressive place, it is also home to a wide variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes open as you might see a lot of dassies, klipspringers, different species of reptiles like snakes and lizards, and various birds. If you are very lucky, you might even spot a hyena or leopard, but chances are rather small.
Practical
Entrance fee: 130 NAD pp (included in camping rate if you stay the night)
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Things to Do
Rock Paintings at Bushman's paradise and Small Bushman's paradise
At Bushman’s Paradise (Chain)) and the small Bushman’s Paradise, you can see the century-old rock paintings from the Busman people, who used to live in Spitzkoppe ages ago. Both can only be visited on a guided hike. Your guide will tell you more about the Spitzkoppe, the fauna and flora in the area and give you some interesting insights on the rock paintings. Definitely a must-do when in Spitzkoppe.
We did the Bushman’s paradise (Chain) and thought it was an interesting tour that is definitely worth it. Our guide took us along the foot of the hill, then walked up a bit, to return via the other side of the hill past the rock paintings. From there, it was a last steep section down, where there is a chain to hold on to. That’s why this tour is also referred to as chain.
Because damage has been caused to the rock paintings by visitors in the past, it is now mandatory to go with a guide. They do not ask for a fixed fee but for a donation. Guides are available at the entrance to Bushman’s Paradise (Chain) and Small Bushman’s Paradise from 8:00am to 6:00pm. So you can just go there and start your guided tour.
Hiking
Spitzkoppe is a real hiking paradise. Besides the Bushman’s tours to the rock paintings, there are plenty of other hiking trails in Spitzkoppe. Due to the vulnerability of the area, these hikes can only be done with a guide and can be booked at the reception upon arrival. Below, you will find an overview of the hikes you can do, including prices and duration:
- Gross Spitzkoppe hike: 600 NAD pp, + 4-5 hours. It is a challenging hike for experienced hikers to a high viewpoint near the summit of Gross Spitzkoppe and requires some exposed scrambling on the rocks.
- Pontok Hike: 450 NAD pp, + 3 hours. During this hike, you climb the Pontok mountain with a beautiful view on Spitzkoppe.
- Golden Snake Hike: 150 NAD pp (groups > 4 persons: 50 NAD pp), + 3 hours
- Bird Hike (Herero Chat): Half day 400 NAD pp, Full Day 800 NAD pp
- Other hiking trails with guide: 100 NAD pp (groups > 4 persons: 80 NAD pp) + 4-5 hours
Of course, it is possible to explore the Spitzkoppe area by foot yourself and hike from your campsite out in nature without a guide.
Note: You should start hiking the Gross Spitzkoppe hike and the Pontok Hike in the morning, not later than 8:00am, as it get very hot later in the day.
Watch sunrise or sunset at the Rock Arch
The Rock Arch is probably the most famous sight of Spitzkoppe. The beautiful rock formation provides a natural frame on the impressive granite peaks. During sunrise and sunset, the peaks take a beautiful red-orange glow and the play between light and shadow creates even more magic. Most people head towards the rock arch at sunset, so it can be busier here during that time. If you prefer to be alone at the Rock Arch, choose a camping spot near the arch and go there before sunrise.
Watch the turtles in Rock Pool
The Rock Pool is a natural pool in one of giant red rocks. There is only water in it during the rainy season, so it is not really worth going during the dry season. It is sometimes said that you can take a refreshing dip in it, but we are not sure whether we would recommend this. Even though, you may not be able to swim in it, it might still be a fun sight to pass by. We saw several small and larger turtles taking turns sticking their heads above the water. The view from here is also phenomenal.
Find the Old Graves & Old Fort Ruins
The Old Graves may not be the most impressive place, but if you don’t know what to do, you can go there and have a look. The graves are not very precisely marked on the map, so it can still be fun to search for them. Virtually nothing remains of the Old Fort Ruins, so it might be better to skip this.
Stargazing
One of the best things to do in Spitzkoppe is stargazing. Because there is little to no air and light pollution in the area, it is known for its perfect stargaze conditions. That’s why we would definitely recommend staying the night in Spitzkoppe.
On a clear night, stars stretch from horizon to horizon and you can see the Milky Way crossing the sky. Chances are you’ve never seen so many stars before. You can also sometimes see planets such as Mars, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn. Don’t forget to make a wish when you see a shooting star!
Most of the year, the weather is clear at Spitzkoppe. The dry winter months are particularly good, because there are little to no clouds and the crisp winter air makes for clear viewing.
Climbing
Because of the large boulders, Spitzkoppe is also a true paradise for climbers. The Western side was first climbed in 1946 and has since then drawn routes from climbers. You also find many bouldering opportunities in the area.
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Camping in Spitzkoppe
Camping at Spitzkoppe is world famous. To us and many other, it was by far the most beautiful campsite in Namibia. If you drive through Namibia with a roof tent, you should definitely spend a night in Spitzkoppe.
There are 2 campings at Spitzkoppe: Spitzkoppe Kommunity Rest Camp and Spitzkoppe Tented Camp and Campsite.
Spitzkoppe Kommunity Rest Camp
Spitzkoppe Kommunity Rest Camp is the ‘main’ camping at Spitzkoppe. It is especially this camping that is so scenic and unique. There are 31 campsites, some of which are more secluded and others more grouped. The more secluded spots are far apart. You really feel completely alone and you can camp camp in complete peace and tranquility. All campsites have the gigantic red granite rocks as a backdrop and overlook the plain of the Namib desert.
Facilities
Due to its location in the desert, there is no running water and no electricity at the camping sites. However, each campsite has a long drop dry toilet and a place to make a fire. At the reception, you can take a shower, wash your dishes and there’s also a small restaurant. Note that it is located quite far from the campsites, so you’ll have to drive here.
Booking
During high season, it can get very busy at the campsite, so it’s best to book in advance. It is a very popular campsite and it might be sold out. You can book a spot in advance, but you cannot reserve a specific campsite; It’s a first come, first serve principle, so you have to choose your campsite upon arrival. Once you have found your spot, you can leave your chairs and table behind if you still want to get around by car.
The Most Beautiful Spots
The most beautiful spots for sunset in Spitzkoppe are 9A, 9B, 10A, 10C, 11A and 11B, because they are located on the west side of Spitzkoppe. This also means that these camping spots are taken up the fastest. However, we are convinced that literally every spot in Spitzkoppe is phenomenal and has its own unique features! Note that campsite numbers 2, 3, 4 and 5 are overlander only.
Price
Camping at Spitzkoppe Community Rest Camp costs 220 NAD pp. This price is included your entrance fee of 130 NAD pp.
Spitzkoppe Tented Camp & Campsite
Around 500 meters outside the Spitzkoppe Reserve, there’s a second campsite called Spitzkoppe Tented Camp & camping. This campsite is slightly less picturesque than the actual Spitzkoppe campsite, because you do not sleep next to the red granite rocks. However, it is the perfect place to stay when the Spitzkoppe Campsite is fully booked, if you don’t have your own camping gear or if you prefer to have a bit more comfort. Even though you are a little further away from the Spitzkoppe peak, you can also enjoy beautiful views here
Facilities
All campsites have their own private hot shower, flush toilet, electrical point and private bbq area. There also have comfortable pre-set-up bush tents with private bathrooms, so that people who do not have their own camping gear can camp here.
Booking
You can book your tent or campsite in advance on spitzkoppemountaincamp.com
Price
Spitzkoppe Tented Camp costs 210 NAD pp, but does not include the entrance fee of 130 NAD pp.
Alternative to camping
If camping is not really your thing, there are some alternative accommodations to still enjoy the beautiful Spitzkoppe area.
Spitzkoppen Lodge is the only accommodation located within the Spitzkoppe reserve. You can spend the night here in a beautiful chalet with some stunning views, but it will cost you a lot more than camping.
If you are looking for a slightly more budget-friendly alternative, you can also stay at Spitzkoppe Cabin Camp, which is located a few kilometers outside Spitzkoppe Reserve.
How to get there
There is no public transportation in Namibia. The only way to get to Spitzkoppe is by renting a car or join a tour.
In our opinion, the best way to discover Namibia is with a rental car with a roof tent. This way you can spend a magical night at the Spitzkoppe Camping. We can highly recommend the cars from Zambezi Car Rental for this.
Spitzkoppe Reserve has two entrance gates. The main entrance is located in the south. This is also the gate where the reception, the showers and the restaurant is located. From the second gate on the western side of the park, it is around a 10 minute drive to the main entrance through the park.
If you prefer not to drive yourself, you can also visit Spitzkoppe as part of a tour from Swakopmund.
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Best Time to Visit
You can visit Spitzkoppe all year round. During the winter months from May to October, temperatures will be more pleasant than during the warm summer months and the clear nights are ideal for stargazing.
Tips for visiting Spitzkoppe
Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
It can get really hot in the Namib Desert and the sun can be very harsh. Protect yourself against the sun and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
Start Early
When you start your day early, the temperatures are still more pleasant to explore and there's less people.
Bring Water and Snacks
Some activities such as hiking and climbing can be quite tiring. Therefore, always bring enough water and snacks!
Wear sturdy shoes
Always wear sturdy shoes when you go hiking in Spitzkoppe. Not only will you have more grip on the rocks, you may also encounter snakes and scorpions.
Speed Limit
The speed limit in the park is 30km/hr. This limit is for the safety of hikers, animals, to protect yourself and to minimize damage to the rock paintings from blowing dust behind your vehicle. Please, stick to this speed limit.
Drones
Drone flying is only allowed with permission from the management.
Food
Be sure to bring enough food and drinks, because there is no supermarket around Spitzkoppe. In the nearby village there is a shop where you can find something in need, but it is recommended to prepare yourself in advance.
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Win-Win for everyone
Did you know that, if you buy or book something through our links, we receive a small commission?
However, you still pay the same and therefore have no extra costs! So a win-win for everyone. This way, we can continue to add even more travel inspiration and tips to this blog for your next adventure. Thanks a lot!
