Namibia Travel
info
namibia

Select your language

Full 1
Full 1
Full 1
previous arrow
next arrow

Waterkloof

Waterkloof Trail

Hiking trail in the Naukluft Mountains

For visitors who love being active during their holiday in Namibia the “Waterkloof Trail” is highly recommendable. The 17-kilometer-long trail winds along small creeks of the Naukluft Mountains in the Namib Naukluft Park and leads through beautiful, varying landscapes. The trail offers various swimming possibilities in natural pools as well. 

Map

Back to Namibia Map

Specifications

Type
Hiking trail
Sleep
Bungalows
Campsites
Camping at Base camp
Location
Naukluft Mountains
Activities
Game observation
Hiking
Swimming

It takes about 6-8 hours to complete the trail. The difficulty is medium to hard. You should have a very good endurance and should be physically fit and trained in hiking.

Start of Trail: NWR Naukluft Camp

Waterkloof Trail

From the shady base camp, managed by the Namibian Wildlife Resort, a path winds along a fountain of excellent drinking water to a crystal-clear pool with -for Namibian standards- ice-cold, refreshing water – a perfect spot to take a refreshing plunge! The hike continues through pristine mountain landscapes up to a moderately difficult summit, from where you can enjoy an exceptional view of the Naukluft Mountains. After a first leisurely, later sometimes steep descent, you will find some pools and springs where you can relax and cool off before continuing through a scenic gorge back to the camp.

The trail is very well marked and well manageable without a guide. However, hikers should always be sure to follow the yellow footsteps.

Wildlife observation in the Naukluft

On the hike, you are not only bound to enjoy the wonderful landscapes of Namibia, but with a bit of luck - especially if you walk quietly - you might also observe various wild animals. The Naukluft Mountains are home to the Hartman Zebra, Klipspringer, Kudu, Baboon and Dassie (Rock Hyrax). Furthermore, numerous species of birds, including birds of prey such as black eagle and owls can be seen.

Required equipment

You need to bring along well-walked hiking boots, at least 4 liters of water (the water in most pools of the Waterkloof Trail is drinkable and you are able to refill your bottle), food, hat and sunscreen.

Hiking with children

Tip: If you are traveling with smaller children, you should do the trail up to the first 2 km, where you will find crystal clear pools. There you can bath extensively, watch the black eagles who are nesting there and then return. The remaining 15 km are difficult and too long for small children.

Please note: Day visitors must first register at the office and pay the park entry fees. This is also recommended for security reasons. The overnight stay in the base camp (bungalows or camping) managed by Namibia Wildlife Resorts is very nice. Here the park fees are included in the accommodation price.

Map of the Waterkloof Trail

Waterkloof Trail Web

Info-Namibia Cookie