Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For visitors interested in tracking black rhinos through the bush, SRT operates the exclusive
Desert Rhino
Camp
( 061-225178;
www.wilderness-safaris.com
;
per person from US$650)
, a joint venture with Wilder-
ness Safaris. Accommodation is in eight East Africa-style linen tents with private bathroom and hot-water bucket
showers. Rates include all meals, wildlife drives and rhino-tracking excursions. Prebooking is essential; 4WD
transfers and air charters are available.
THE SPITZKOPPE
] 064
One of Namibia's most recognisable landmarks, the 1728m-high Spitzkoppe rises like a
mirage above the dusty pro-Namib plains of southern Damaraland. Its dramatic shape has
inspired its nickname, the Matterhorn of Africa, but similarities between this ancient vol-
canic remnant and the glaciated Swiss alp begin and end with its sharp peak. First sum-
mited in 1946, the Spitzkoppe continues to attract hard-core rock climbers bent on tack-
ling Namibia's most challenging peak.
The Spitzkoppe is administered by the Ministry of Environment & Tourism (MET), and
attended to by the local community. Local guides are also available for a negotiable price,
and they provide some illuminating context to this rich cultural site.
Sights & Activities
Beside the Spitzkoppe rise the equally impressive
Pondoks
, which are composed of
enormous granite domes. At the eastern end of this rocky jumble, a wire cable climbs the
granite slopes to a vegetated hollow known as Bushman's Paradise, where an overhang
shelters a vandalised panel of ancient rhino paintings.
Although you do not need technical equipment and expertise to go scrambling, climb-
ing to the top of the Spitzkoppe is a serious and potentially dangerous endeavour. For
starters, you must be fully self-sufficient in terms of climbing gear, food and water, and
preferably be part of a large expedition. Before climbing the Spitzkoppe, seek local advice
and be sure to inform others of your intentions. Also be advised that it can get extremely
hot during the day and surprisingly cold at night and at higher elevations - bring proper
protection.
