The Erongo Region of Namibia is home to many well-known tourist places, and it is often called the gateway to the coast and Damaraland. There is a lot to see in this large area, but don’t worry, before you begin your once-in-a-lifetime trip through Namibia, we have put together all the important information you need about the Erongo Region.
How to get to the Erongo Region
The Erongo Region covers a big area that stretches from the coast to the southern part of Damaraland and down to the Namib-Naukluft. It is easy to reach from Windhoek by taking the B2 road going west. To get to Brandberg, Spitskoppe, and Twyfelfontein, travelers can take gravel roads that turn off from the B2.
The roads between Henties Bay, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay are paved and clearly marked along the coast.
Best time to visit the Erongo Region
The best time to visit, weather-wise, is in the fall and winter (March to September), as with most of Namibia. The desert is cooler and more comfortable during these months than in the summer (December to February).
However, December is a popular time for locals to go to the beach because it offers a nice break from the hot inland weather. Also, the Atlantic Ocean is not as cold during this time, making it a good time for swimming.
Main Attractions
Think about how close the Erongo Region is to Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain and home to thousands of rock paintings. The most famous one is the White Lady, a painting that seems to show a white woman surrounded by local hunter-gatherers.
But some recent studies say it may be a shaman. Still, others believe it shows a woman from Europe, maybe even a Viking. Take a look and decide for yourself. Hikers also enjoy the mountain, especially in years with good rain, when the mountain has drinkable water.
The Erongo Mountains
The Erongo Mountains, just outside Omaruru, are the remains of an old volcano that collapsed and formed a large caldera. Wind and rain over many years have worn away the top layers of the volcano, leaving a large ring of red granite.
The southern part of the caldera is closed, but the road from Omaruru to Uis goes through the northern part and offers great views for tired travelers.
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
It is hard to visit the Erongo Region without seeing Swakopmund. A day walking through the town is a good idea because of its German-style buildings and relaxed feel. Walvis Bay, just south of Swakopmund, is known for the many birds at the Walvis Bay Lagoon. Boat trips to see dolphins and other animals also leave from here.
There are even stories that whales are coming back to this old mating spot (the town’s name means “whale bay” in Afrikaans). Close by is Dune 7, which is best to climb early in the morning. Later in the day, the hot sand makes it very hard to walk up.
Henties Bay
Henties Bay is a small town that is perfect for people who enjoy fishing. The tourism office here is also where you get a permit to visit Dorob National Park.
Dorob National Park
Dorob National Park is the first of its kind in Namibia. The park was made to protect its fragile environment while still allowing people to enjoy many fun activities. There are no entry gates or guards, just signs showing that you have entered the park.
It connects the Namib-Naukluft and the Skeleton Coast, covering 8,176 km² from the Kuiseb River in the south to the Ugab River in the north. Always stay on the roads and tracks, as driving off-road is not allowed.
Omaruru
The small town of Omaruru is known for its busy group of artists. There are many art studios and a few galleries around town. The yearly Artist Walk brings many visitors from across the country to see the work of local artists. The Omaruru River flows through the town and is usually dry except during rainy periods.
The area also has many bird species. Nearby, Paula Cave and Etemba Cave have rock paintings. You can also visit the Kristall Kellerei on the edge of town to taste local wine and brandy made there.
Erindi Private Game Reserve
Erindi is the largest private game reserve in Namibia and is about an hour’s drive inland from Omaruru. It is definitely worth visiting. The 70,719-hectare reserve has many animals, including hyenas, rhinos, African wild dogs, and elephants. There are two places to stay in the park: Old Traders Lodge and Camp Elephant. One of the best things to do is a guided nature walk, which lets you see the animals up close.
