Twyfelfontein © Judith Duk
Twyfelfontein
Translated as 'Doubtful Fountain', Twyfelfontein was so named by
a farmer who doubted the ability of the spring to sustain his
cattle for a long time. The spring is still there, but
Twyfelfontein is famous for its prehistoric rock paintings and
engravings rather than its water supply. It boasts the largest
concentration of ancient rock art in the country (about 2,500
designs), and has been declared a national monument. The
petroglyphs primarily depict game animals such as giraffe,
antelope, elephant and lion, and are believed to be around 3,000
years old. Visitors are no longer allowed to enter the site without
a guide, due to previous vandalism. The uniquely designed Visitor
Information Centre features an exhibition, kiosk and souvenir
shop.
Admission: N$30
Groot Spitzkop © Judith Duk
The Spitzkoppe
The natural beauty of the Spitzkoppe, or Spitzkop, is
spectacular; an island of bald granite peaks situated in an endless
grassy plain that is visible for miles around. Groot Spitzkop is
often referred to as the 'Matterhorn of Africa' because of its
similarity in shape, and it is one of Namibia's most famous
mountains. Nearby are the Little Spitzkoppe and the Pontok
Mountains. The area is a paradise for climbers, although only those
with a lot of experience and the correct equipment should attempt
the Spitzkoppe itself. The enormous granite rocks were formed
hundreds of millions of years ago due to volcanic activity and
subsequent erosion has resulted in fascinating rock formations and
memorable outlines, which should not go unexplored. The area is
also renowned for its breathtaking sunrises that turn the rocks
from pale orange to flaming gold.
White Lady, Brandberg © Judith Duk
Brandberg
The Brandberg massif is famous for its thousands of rock
paintings and engravings, most notably the 'White Lady', which is
estimated to be about 2,000 years old. Guides accompany visitors on
an hour walk to the Tsisab Ravine where the famous painting is
located on an overhang under a shelter, surrounded by a variety of
painted animal forms. Although faded over the years, the trip to
see it is well worth the effort. Contrary to early belief, the
painting is not actually of a white lady, but is the image of a
male, the white colour of the body representing body paint, which
suggests it is a medicine man. Since it was discovered in 1955,
there has been a great deal of controversy over the meaning and
origin of the painting. Brandberg's highest peak is
Königstein, and at 8,550ft (2,606m) it is the highest mountain
in Namibia, which can be reached on an organised three-day
hike.
Admission: N$25
