Windhoek City Guide - excursions

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.

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.

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.