Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Getting There & Away
Under normal dry conditions, a 2WD is sufficient to reach the mountain. Turn northwest
off the B2 onto the D1918 towards Henties Bay. After 18km, turn north onto the D3716.
THE BRANDBERG
Driving around this massive pink granite bulge, and marvelling at the ethereal light during
sunset which appears to bounce off it, is a highlight of the region. But inside lies the real
treasure - one of the finest remnants of prehistoric art on the African continent.
The Brandberg (Fire Mountain) is named for the effect created by the setting sun on its
western face, which causes this granite massif to resemble a burning slag heap. Its sum-
mit, Königstein, is Namibia's highest peak at 2573m.
The Brandberg is a reserve and the entry fee for admission is N$50 per person and
N$20 per car. Note that this includes being allocated a compulsory guide - you cannot just
walk around these fragile treasures by yourself. It's good to tip the guide afterwards if
you're happy with their service.
Sights
Tsisab Ravine
The most famous figure in the ravine is the
White Lady of the Brandberg
, which is loc-
ated in Maack's Shelter. The figure, which isn't necessarily a lady (it's still open to inter-
pretation), stands about 40cm high, and is part of a larger painting that depicts a bizarre
hunting procession. In one hand, the figure is carrying what appears to be a flower or pos-
sibly a feather. In the other, the figure is carrying a bow and arrows. However, the painting
is distinct because 'her' hair is straight and light-coloured - distinctly un-African - and
the body is painted white from the chest down.
The first assessment of the painting was in 1948, when Abbé Henri Breuil speculated
that the work had Egyptian or Cretan origins, based on similar ancient art he'd seen
around the Mediterranean. However, this claim was eventually dismissed, and recent
scholars now believe the white lady may in fact be a San boy, who is covered in white
clay as part of an initiation ceremony.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Numas Ravine
Numas Ravine, slicing through the western face of the Brandberg, is another treasure
house of ancient paintings. Most people ask their guide to take them to the rock facing the
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
