Waterberg Plateau Park

Cliffs of the plateau

Waterberg Plateau Park is located on the Waterberg Plateau in Otjozondjupa, Namibia. The nearest major city is Otjiwarongo, about 68 km to the west of the park by conventional roads. The park is 40,549 hectares in area.

Understand

History

The park was set aside as a sanctuary for rare and endangered species. A variety of antelopes were relocated from other regions of Northern Namibia. In 1989, black rhinoceros was reintroduced to the area from Damaraland.

Waterberg was also the site of one of the major turning points Namibian history. At the foothills of Waterberg, the Herero people lost their last battle against the German colonial forces at the beginning of the century. The Herero were driven across the Kalahari desert into Botswana, then a British protectorate.

Landscape

The term "Waterberg" refers to the fact that sandstone of the plateau absorbs moisture which runs off on the southeast side of the plateau as springs. Hence, the name "Waterberg" or water mountain.

Flora and fauna

Rhinoceros in the park

The vegetation of the plateau is green subtropical dry woodland. This contrasts the acacia that grows at the base of the plateau. Typically, the north slope of the rocky formations have colorful lichen growing on them in contrast to the reddish color normally found.

There are approximately 200 species of birds in the park. It is home to the only breeding colony of Cape Vultures in Namibia. It is also the breeding ground of several rare game species including rhinoceros, buffalo, and sable and roan antelope.

Climate

Like all of Namibia, it is very hot in the summer with temperatures of up to 40 °C.

Get in

The main entrance to the park is at the Bernabe de la Bat Restcamp. Many trails extend outward from this rest camp.

Fees and permits

Vehicles to view game leave in the early morning and mid afternoon. These are booked at the camp office and cost N$50 for adults and N$20 for children.

The four day hike on the Waterberg Wilderness Trail starts every second, third and fourth Thursday April through November. Only six to eight people are permitted per week. The cost is N$200 per person.

Get around

There are ten trails around the Bernabe Le Bat Restcamp. Maps are available through the reception office.

Eat

There is a restaurant on site in the Bernabe Le Bat Campground.

Sleep

Lodging

Bungalows can be booked through the Central Reservation Office (NWR)in Windhoek. 8 km beyond the Bernabe Le Bat campsite is the Waterberg Wilderness Lodge just outside the park. There are facilities for camping as well.

Waterberg Plateau in the distance

Stay safe

Be aware that in the Namibian summer, temperatures can reach 38 °C. Take appropriate precautions. Also, the temperature can drop considerably at night.

Beware of the many troops of baboons. Be careful about leaving food out.