Camping under the stars at Spitzkoppe, that's what you want! In the Namib Desert, about a 2-hour drive from the coastal town of Swakopmund, lies Spitzkoppe. A special location in Namibia where out of nowhere a gigantic granite peak towers high above the vast desert plains. This landscape is over 700 million years old and is the most extraordinary place we have ever camped. Among rocks of the most unusual shapes and sizes and under a breathtaking starry sky. Years ago the San, a local people group, lived here for a very long time. Evidence of this are the petroglyphs you can find here. So one of the activities you can do here is to discover the petroglyphs on the giant rock formations of Spitzkoppe!
Hiking at Spitzkoppe
Spitzkoppe, ago in Damaraland, is a paradise for those who love hiking and climbing. You are free to go wherever you want here, but be sure to carry plenty of water and sunburn. Experienced mountaineers can climb with a guide to the top of the Spitzkoppe, also called the Matterhorn of Namibia, which rises 1784 meters above sea level and 700 meters above the rest of the landscape.
Would you like to visit the petroglyphs at Bushman Paradise and Small Bushmans Paradise? If so, this can only be done with a guide. No one is allowed to visit the petroglyphs without a guide. You can book a guide at the reception desk or on the spot at the location.
One of Spitzkoppe's most popular spots is The Bridge. A natural rock arch that has a beautiful vista of the Pontok Mountains. Visit this spot early in the morning or toward the end of the afternoon to avoid the crowds. In fact, Spitzkoppe allows daytime visitors during the day so tours may pass by this spot during the day.
If it has rained heavily in Namibia during the summer months, chances are there is water in the Rock Pool. To get here, you first have to climb up the rocks until you come out at the pool. Unfortunately there was no water left when we were there, but we can imagine that this is a nice place to relax on hot days. From here you can climb further up for a nice view of the area.
Watching the sunrise and sunset at Spitzkoppe
You experience the real beauty of Spitzkoppe only during sunrise and sunset. Grab a thermos of coffee or beer, pick a boulder, climb up and watch as the sun's rays transform the Matterhorn from a brown to a bright orange color during sunrise. Sunset is just as spectacular as you watch the sky slowly turn yellow, orange, pink and red until the last light leaves the rock formations and the first stars appear in the sky.
Stargazing at Spitzkoppe
Stargazing at Spitzkoppe is, in a word, breathtaking. We spent all evening gazing at the countless stars while sitting around our homemade campfire. Spitzkoppe is the location of choice for astrophotography because of the low light pollution. It is even said that here you also have a good chance of seeing the planets Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.
Spitzkoppe campsite
Scattered throughout the area of Spitzkoppe Campsite you will find 31 camp sites. Some campsites are completely isolated while others are clustered. Whichever spot you're on, you'll have plenty of space and privacy to enjoy the natural wonders around you in peace.
Camping spots at Spitzkoppe are not assigned in advance. It works on a first-come, first-served basis. At the reception desk they cannot tell you which sites are already occupied. Therefore, you may just have to drive around a few times before you find the right spot. We had campsite number 4 and we can definitely recommend this spot. From our spot and from our tent we could see the mysterious Spitzkoppe. We were also able to walk to the iconic Arch and Rock Pool.
The sites are very basic, but what do you expect in such a special location? There is no water or electricity. Some sites have a toilet (read: toilet bowl with fence) and braai facilities. Not all camp sites have enough shade, the spots that do have shade are lucky because of the location of the rocks. During the summer months it can therefore get very hot during the day at Spitzkoppe.
Showers with hot water and toilets that can flush can be found near the reception. Keep in mind that you have to drive here since most of the camping spots are more than 1 kilometer away from the reception. You will also find a restaurant where you can have breakfast, lunch and dinner. Check in advance if you need to make a reservation due to shopping.
Booking your overnight stay at Spitzkoppe campsite
Spitzkoppe Campsite is an iconic spot in Namibia. Consequently, despite having 31 camping spots, it fills up quickly. Booking several months in advance is therefore recommended. This can easily be done online or by sending an email to reservations@logufa.com.
How to reach Spitzkoppe.
During our tour of Namibia, we used maps.me navigation a lot. Prior to our departure, we downloaded the maps of Namibia and got everywhere just fine. This is how we eventually reached Spitzkoppe, but admittedly via a very uncomfortable and probably not much used road (or rather a dirt track). It was a good thing we had a 4×4 jeep with good wheel drive.
Like us, do you travel from Swakopmund to Spitzkoppe then you can choose to drive on the C34 past Hentiesbaai or on the B2. Both roads end up on the D1918. At the height of Uiba Oas Crystal Market turn off and drive down the Pontok Mountains. Follow the signs for Spitzkoppe Camp and you have arrived at your destination. This is definitely more recommended than following the route via maps.me.
Important to know
There are a few points we'd like to tip off for good preparation for a stay at Spitzkoppe.
Bring plenty of water and food. The nearest store is at least an hour away and the store at the reception is very limited.
Going hiking? Then wear sturdy shoes and don't go on flip-flops. The rocks are sharp and you will slip in no time if you don't have a grip. Wear a cap against the sun and be sure to have plenty of water during the hike as well.
Be vigilant for scorpions and snakes around the camp sites and while hiking (we did not spot any).
Want to pick a good camping spot? Then make sure you arrive early at Spitzkoppe Campsite.
Take a tour of Namibia
Do you want to take a trip through Namibia, but aren't quite sure how to go about it? And maybe you're not sure about the itinerary and destinations yet? We will help you get started. During a 1-on-1 video interview we will map your wishes and advise you on the most beautiful places that suit you. Would you rather leave it all up to us? No problem! We organize your trip completely customized. Ask for a travel proposal for your vacation to Namibia.
