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Namibia:
What to see |
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Damaraland
Wilderness Reserve |
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>see photographs
Best known for
This privately operated Reserve is best known for the magnificent
rugged desert scenery. It is a very large region and has other attractions
such as the Brandberg in the south, which is Namibia's highest mountain
where one can view countless San rock paintings. The Petrified Forest
contains fossilized logs estimated at over 200 million years old.
Location
Damaraland stretches from the Skeleton Coast in the west to the south
western border of Etosha National Park in
the east. This Reserve makes up the northern portion of the Namib
Desert and is just inland from the Skeleton Coast.
Size
The Reserve covers an area of 1,600 sq km.
Wildlife
This area does not boast vast numbers of animals but those that do
live here are well adapted to the climate and terrain and are extraordinary
in themselves. One can find black rhino, desert elephant, gemsbok,
lion, springbok, desert dwelling giraffe, and the Hartmann's mountain
zebra.
Environment
Unlike the rest of the Namib Desert the Damaraland is actually a mountainous
and rocky terrain, which at intervals have wide gravel plains between
them that lead into hot and dry valleys or into sandy riverbeds.
Vegetation
In the region bordering the Atlantic is a desert land, but going further
inland rugged mountains appear and wide barren sand plains. The vegetation
is sparse and adapted to the harsh conditions of this area, and rare
succulent plants can be seen on walks.
Climate and When To Go
Early March to early January are considered the better months to visit
- avoiding the months of January and February.
Activities
Appreciating the magnificent scenery, guided drives, and hiking are
the main activities on offer.
Accommodation
The exclusive Damaraland Camp, is located on the north face of the
Huab River Valley 90 km from Torra Bay on the Skeleton Coast. From
here one can explore the Huab River system. The Camp is rated as the
most successful eco-tourism venture in Namibia, integrating the community,
the environment and sustainable wildlife. Another superb option is
Huab Lodge,
winner of Namibia's "Best lodge" category since 1994. Set
on the banks of the Huab River, it offers excellent hosting, guided
walks and drives and star-gazing by telescope.
How to get there
By road
The reserve is privately operated and one drives to the reserve boundary
where one leaves the vehicle and will be taken into the reserve from
there.
By air
There is a private strip in the reserve and one can charter a plane
from any of the major airports.
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