Spitzkoppe - between Swakopmund and Usakos

Traveling between Usakos and Swakopmund, in the Erongo Region of Namibia, there is not much to see besides a long tar road and desert, desert and more desert. About 30 kilometers outside of Usakos heading in the direction of Swakopmund, while peering out of the driver’s side windows, one can get a glimpse of The Spitzkoppe, raising out of the desert sands. Spitzkoppe from the air Formation The Spitzkoppe, forming part of the Erongo Mountains, are approximately 700 million years old. Like many of the natural rock formations and mountains in Namibia, The Spitzkoppe were formed by violent volcanic activities that were so regular and typical of the area so many million years ago.

It was during the separation of the ancient continent Gondwana, a time when South America and Africa were formed, that magma intrusions, which were to become known as the Damaraland Rock Complex, thrust it way through the older Damaraland Sequence, which had formed around 460 - 700 million years ago and subsequently cooled within the surrounding rock. Unlike the Brukkaros Mountain of the Karros Region in Namibia, which was formed completely above ground level, the peaks of The Spitzkoppe were formed below the surface of the ground and it has been the erosion of the surrounding areas over the last 130 million years that have left behind present day ground levels, with The Spitzkoppe towering over them. This process has become known as Inselberg Formations.

Through one of the many rock formations Place of interest and beauty The Spitzkoppe Mountains, with striking outlines contrasted against the dry plains of the surrounds, are probably the most well known mountains in Namibia. Unfortunately many tourists, in their rush to get between Swakopmund, on the coast, and inland towns, pass by without a second glance, not knowing what they are missing out on. Rising to an altitude of an impressive 1800 meters above sea level, the peak of the Spitzkoppe are about 700 meters higher than the surrounding areas. This along with the smaller "Little Spitzkoppe" can make for hours of interesting fun, while one takes in the stunning landscape and climb between the bizarre rock formations. It would be wise to note that despite it's appearance, The Spitzkoppe are not very easily ascended, One has to be fit and in excellent condition and be prepared for an arduous and trick trek.

For those history buffs, The Spitzkoppe are also where one would be able to view San paintings. Although some of the painting, which date back thousands of years, have been destroyed, there are still many left.

A wonder of Rock formations The majestic Spitzkoppe

For lovers of nature and its beauty, the best way to experience The Spitzkoppe and its surrounds are by camping overnight. The sunsets and sunrises, promise to be some of the best experienced anywhere in the world. With sunset, comes that peace and tranquility of a Namibian desert night. The stars above, shine brighter than can be imagined and the noises of nature, make for some of the most magical moments. During full moon, the wide vast open landscape is unveiled in a silver gleam that will surely provide evidence of the awesome power and beauty of nature.