The endless stretches of mopane trees charmingly blanket the eastern part of Damaraland as you traverse from Outjo towards Khorixas. Exquisite, yet dramatic tabletop mountains and massive granite outcrops and boulders will mesmerise you. You will pass donkey carts with a passenger or two as they make their way to one of the many small farms that occupy this sparsely populated region. Welcome to the north-western corner of Namibia.
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Here’s why a visit to Damaraland would be worthwhile:
What is the derivation of the name?
The meaning of a name is often intriguing. This name originates from the people living here, the Damara speaking people. The South African government settled the Damara speaking people in this arid region due to the Odendaal Plan in the 1960s. This name is now generally used for geographical and tourism classification, as the northern part of the area lies in the Kunene Region, while the southern part falls within the Erongo Region.
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How breathtaking is it really?
It is jagged, mountainous, filled with sweeping light-coloured grasslands and red sand that stays just a little longer in your shoes and socks. Sunrises and sunsets take on shades that paint the sky stunningly, but of course the warm passengers on that donkey cart or shepherds who welcome you with a wave and a smile as they travel from their farms to a nearby local shop are what make Damaraland worth visiting. So yes, it really is breathtaking.
Where exactly is it located?
Damaraland lies in the north-western part of Namibia. It spreads inland from the Skeleton Coast, north of Swakopmund and south of Kaokoland.
How can I get there?
Namibia2Go has you covered with various affordable and well-maintained rental vehicles to ensure that you travel safely and in style as you manoeuvre through the rugged Damaraland landscape.
Where can I stay?
Try out Gondwana Collection Namibia and stay at the charming Damara Mopane Lodge, where your room is in its own walled vegetable garden and feels just like home.
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This lodge is perfectly located in close proximity to the fascinating geographical highlights of Damaraland, the Twyfelfontein rock engravings and Vingerklip Rock.
What activities can I experience in the area?
During your stay at the Damara Mopane Lodge you can join in some of the lodge activities, such as the Mountain Walking Trail or Valley Walking Trail, which offer awe-inspiring vistas.
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On a more adventurous note, zip-lining at the Ugab Terrace Lodge might be ideal and a visit to the VingerkIip Rock is worthwhile. You might also like the Petrified Forest, or drive out further to explore the Twyfelfontein rock engravings and Damara Living Museum, which offers unique insight into the Damara community’s culture.
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There are ample activities to choose from, so what are you waiting for? Come and experience Damaraland in style.
Why should you visit Damaraland? If you have visited before, what are things to look forward to?
Author – I’m Nela, from a small village called Ongha in Namibia. I am intrigued by research, writing and photography as it is an ideal way to gain knowledge about people and the world. And of course… to share it too!
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