Damaraland is one of the most scenic areas in Namibia. Prehistoric water courses with open plains and grassland, massive granite koppies, and distant mountains create the Damaraland landscape. Game species include desert elephants, black rhino, ostrich, and springbok.
The flora and fauna of the region have adapted perfectly to the harsh weather conditions. Desert elephants have elongated limbs and broader foot soles, in order to handle the extreme rock and sand desert better. They can travel for kilometers in the dry river beds in search of water. Also, the critically endangered desert lions managed to adapt to the arid climate. The flora has also adapted to these dry conditions with many endemic desert plants; such as the poisonous but photogenic Euphorbia Virosa and the ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis.
The Brandberg and Spitzkoppe are two favorite places for mountain climbers in Namibia; but also both mountains contain a high density of San (Bushman) art.
Rhino and Elephant tracking safaris are available with proceeds from these safaris go towards the preservation of these animals. The Palmwag Concession in Damaraland has trackers patrolling and protecting one of Africa’s largest free-ranging populations of Critically Endangered desert-adapted black rhino.
Many of our guided safaris in Namibia visit Damaraland, or it is also a very popular self-drive option.
Damaraland desert-adapted Elephant
Damaraland attractions
The Brandberg
The Brandberg is Namibia’s highest mountain; an extinct volcano that pronounces the already mountainous Damaraland landscape with over 2500 meters of solid rock. This granite mountain glows in the setting sun; so aptly called Fire Mountain. The Brandberg is a spiritual site of great significance to the San (Bushman) tribes. The main attraction is The White Lady rock painting, set on a rock face with other artwork; in the Tsisab Ravine; at the foot of the mountain.
Organ Pipes
The Organ Pipes are fascinating geological formations that are over 150 million years old. This rock formation comprises a group of columnar basalts that range from grey to reddish-orange; that tower over 5 meters above ground and resemble a church organ.
Damaraland Organ Pipes
Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings
Twyfelfontein, a World Heritage site, gives yet another distinction to Namibia. It is here you will find one of the best bushman rock engraving sites in the world. The local tour operators like to refer to this site as the largest open-air art gallery in Southern Africa. Climb and walk on the mountain in order to see and learn about the bushman, their beliefs, and traditions from the art.
Twyfelfontein rock art
The Petrified Forest
The Petrified Forest is a rare phenomenon. The fossilized remains of these tree trunks provide an intriguing glimpse of flora that flooded this area; some 260 million years ago.
Spitzkoppe
A series of granite peaks with magnificent striking rock formations; rise dramatically from the flat, desolate landscape at Spitzkoppe. The highest peak stands at 1,784 m (5,853 ft) above sea level; some 700 m (2,300 ft) from the desert floor. Climbing Spitzkoppe is a challenge for even the most experienced mountain climbers.
