Stone arch
Framing sunset.
Daniel Kraft — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Daniel Kraft — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Hka1987 — CC0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0
A group of smooth granite peaks rising abruptly from a flat desert plain, the highest reaching 1,728 metres above sea level, nicknamed the Matterhorn of Namibia for its sharp summit. The rock is more than 120 million years old, tinted orange and red by the sun. Among the huge boulders are natural arches, above all a large stone arch through which sunsets and night skies are photographed, and caves and rock shelters with ancient San paintings, visited with a local guide. It is one of Namibia's finest places to camp, under a clear, dark sky, with the Milky Way spreading over the peaks at night. A local community runs it, renting campsites and organising guided walks. A small entry fee goes to the community and differs between sources. Do not climb the smooth rock without experience and gear. The desert is very hot by day from October to March and cold at night, so start early and carry water and a hat. Namibia's gravel roads cause many accidents, so drive slowly, never travel at night and carry plenty of water and fuel.
Framing sunset.
In the shelters.
Milky Way.
Between Usakos and Swakopmund, about 150 km east of Swakopmund
Yes, the local community runs campsites among the rocks, among Namibia's best places for stargazing.