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I don't know if Spitzkoppe deserves its nickname 'Matternhorn of Africa' but I know for sure that this is the place of unique beauty. I didn't expect it to be so special, that's why my delight was even greater. The landscape is just stunning - rust and ochre rocks, groups of enormous boulders and the sense of isolation. We camped at the foot of granite rocks and didn't mind at all the lack of ablution blocks or 'civilised' toilet (there was just a long drop one).
We walked around the bizarre rock formations while some of the group went abseiling from the rock arch nearby. Suddenly we spotted a group of hyraxes observing us curiously. Meeting them was a kind of photo practice before Etosha. At night, sitting around the fire, we gazed at the enormous sky lit with countless stars - far from any civilisation, far from home ...
The Spitzkoppe is a group of bald granite peaks between Usakos and Swakopmund in the Namib desert. The highest peak is 1728 m above the sea level. In the area you can find many examples of Bushmen rock painting.
Written Aug 24, 2010
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Several rock-painting sites are scattered over the Spitzkoppe and Erongo Mountains. The most popular site is the Bushman's Paradise, which can be reached by following a track eastwards along the base of the Pondok Mountain. The site was declared a national monument in 1954.
The paintings include lions, hunters, zebras, elephants and antelopes painted in an ochre red paint. The painting's that are higher up are the older of the bunch (c. 2000 B.C.) while the lower one's and newer (only about 2000 years old). The height of the drawings correspond to the level of the ground prior to erosion.
Written Jun 17, 2010
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Spitzkoppe is the second highest peak in Namibia. It's name is derived from Afrikaans meaning resembling African huts. It is often also called the "Matterhorn of Namibia". It rises 700 meters above the Namibian desert and 1728 meters above sea level.
The area doesn't look like much, but there is lots to see and do in the area including hiking and rockclimbing. It is a photgraphers paradise offering interesting rock formations, wildlife and sunrises/sunsets.
Written Jun 17, 2010
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Spitzkoppe, one of the most often photographed sites in Namibia and the country's well-known landmark, is located close to Swakopmund.
It's famous for its fascinating sunrises and sunsets as well as changing colours.
I climbed up about a quarter of its height and got a serious sunburn. Better be prepared... ;-)
Updated May 26, 2006
Address: North-East of Swakopmund
Spitzkoppe is a really strange rockformation in Namibia.
You can hike around the rocks, during the hikes you can find some bushmanpaintings. With a guide you'll find them quicker.
It's really nice to sleep in the open air here. The stars in the sky are very clear and there are not many dangerous wild animals in the neighbourhood, maybe the occasional scorpion.
Written Oct 13, 2005
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The Granit Formations of Spitzkop and the Erongo are very fotogen.
If you do like to climb, this is a true paradise.
If you like to Hike, there is also a lot to see.
In this Area you can find Stone paintings if you keep your eyes open.
The Great Spitzkop, a Granit-Mountain is towering 1728 m high. Next to it are the smaller Pontok Mountains and little Spitzkop.
The Erongo-Mountains developed from vulcanic activity in this area 150 Million Years ago. Due to this, the surroundings are very rich in Semi-precious stones like Tourmaline etc.
The people in this Area life from selling these half precious stones to Tourists. If you like to buy them, I would advise you to know a little about stones and what they are worth ....
You can Camp right at and around Spitzkop. The whole area is a campsite with marked places. I have never seen a Campsite more beautiful located - and more wild.
No toilets, no showers, no nothing. But great.
Updated Dec 5, 2004
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Spitzkoppe and Erongo tips and photos posted by real travelers and Namibia locals.
The Granit Formations of Spitzkop and the Erongo are very fotogen.If you do like to climb, this is a true paradise.If you like to Hike, there is also a lot to...
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