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Naukluft Mountains

The Naukluft Mountains are in a section of the Namib-Naukluft Park that is often neglected by tourists. Most people head directly for the dunes at Sossusvlei, ignoring the spectacular hiking offered by these majestic mountains. The Naukluft Mountains rise from the desert scrub, their stony slopes covered in rocky scree. The vegetation is sparse, consisting mainly of low growing shrubs and trees. Yet this harsh mountain environment is home to a surprising abundance of wildlife and it is a delight to stumble across the path of the nimble klipspringer, the clumsy kudu, or the elusive mountain zebra.

The Naukluft Mountains park facilities are excellent and the campground is situated in a beautiful canyon, near a stream, with trees towering all around. Even in this harsh environment the trees are usually green, nourished by the waters of the stream. Baboons abound in the canyon, and one often hears their shouts echoing off the walls of the canyon. As there is plenty of forage for them, the baboons are rarely a hassle and it is one of the few places where you may actually welcome their annoying company. The hiking in the canyon and on the mountain ridges is outstanding, and is worthy of extensive exploration. The quaint campsite, nestled in amongst the walls of the canyon will not disappoint you.

Practical Information:
The Naukluft Mountains are an easy drive from Windhoek. See the Namib-Naukluft Park section for details. The price for camping should be around $8 US/site of up to two vehicles and eight people. You can purchase firewood at the park office and there are toilet and shower facilities. There are a number of different hiking trails for the visior, ranging from two different day hikes to longer four and eight day hikes. There is also a 4x4 trail for thoses who wish to let their vehicles do all of the work.

Overland Explorers Suggested Itinerary:
To coincide with our recommendations on a longer visit to the Namib-Naukluft Park, we suggest that you take advantage of the shorter hikes offered in the Naukluft Mountains. If you arrive in the afternoon, you will not have the time to hike one of the marked trails. However, the hills around the camp, while steep, are covered with sparse vegetation. It is possible to climb the hills around the campsite, and if you climb out of the valley in the late evening or early morning, the colors cast by the low sun are spectacular.

Overland Explorers suggests that you arise early to view the sunrise over the desert. The air will be chilly, but feels exquisite on the skin. Climb into the hills to the west of the campsite if you are able. The early morning sun splashed across the desert is stunning. If you reach the crest of the mountain you will be greeted to a panoramic view of the plains and valleys beyond. It is breathtaking and there is a good chance you will encounter a variety of wildlife. As the sun begins to warm the air, skirt the hills and meet up with the trail that runs along the Naukluft River. Here you will follow a small streambed and find crystal clear pools inviting you to plunge in for a swim. You may even find leopard footprints in the mud from the night before. The hiking opportunities are endless. Enjoy and explore!