Spitzkoppe (“Matterhorn of Namibia”) is a group of bald granite peaks, located between Usakos and Swakopmund in the Namib Desert of Namibia. These prominent peaks, which are more than 120 million years old, stand out dramatically from the flat plains surrounding it. The tallest granite outcrop rises about 1784 metres above sea level, surrounded by smaller peaks and outcrops. Further west you will find the Pontok Mountain range.
This is one of the most beautiful and striking places to visit in Namibia. This is a true paradise for any hiker, climber, geologist or star-gazer and a visit here will be truly worth your while.
There are a couple accommodation options in the area, ranging from a newly established luxury lodge and tented camp to the rooms and campsite that is run by the local community.
During our visit to Spitzkoppe we camped at the local community-run campsite which offers basic campsites nestled between the peaks and outcrops. You will be amazed at the views one can enjoy at each campsite, and it’s quite a hard task to choose the ‘best’ camping spot. We camped here for two nights, and this is the minimum number of nights necessary to properly enjoy and explore what this area has to offer.
While staying here one is excited about the prospect of viewing, photographing and climbing all the different peaks, boulders and outcrops. The views from the top are breath taking and enjoying the sunrise or sunset here, high above the Earth, is an absolute must. The Rock Arch is a well-known rock formation and one of the most striking ones to be found here. Bushmen paintings can be found on the rocks; however some have unfortunately been damaged by vandalism.
If you are a keen climber, hiker or mountaineer, then this is the place for you. Anyone, from beginners to professionals will find that there is a lot on offer. For professionals the accent of the main peak is a real difficult challenge. If you are quite adventurous and okay with a fare bit of height, then you can climb one or two outcrops which are equipped with steel ladders for safety.
In terms of other environment-focused activities, one can enjoy spectacular birding while staying here. Birdlife is diverse, including species that are endemic to the Namib as well as those that are typically found in thorn bush savannah habitats.
This is the ideal place to see raptors of Red Data status like the booted eagle (endangered), black eagle (near threatened), Martial eagle (Endangered) and Peregrine falcon (near-threatened). Other species that you may spot include the Hartlaub’s spurfowl, Ruppell’s korhaan, Ruppell’s parrot, Monteiro’s hornbill, Carp’s tit, Herero chat, white-tailed shrike, Benguela long-billed lark and many more.
A diverse array of frogs (four species) and reptiles are found here as well. 42 lizard species occur in the area of which 19 are endemic to Namibia. One particular species, the Marico gecko’s population and range falls within the Spitzkoppe area, where it lives on the sandy plains.