With crystal-clear springs and large wild fig trees, the Tsauchab River Camp area in the southern Naukluft Mountains has a seasonal stream. It flows only when it rains and becomes the main water source for Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon. The stream ends in a dry lake at the base of the world’s tallest sand dunes.
The Roter Kamm, Naukluft, and Tsaris Mountains surround the camp. It was first established as a farm in 1911. In the 1930s, two German geologists, Henno Martin and Hermann Korn, used it as their base camp.
Today, a Namibian couple manages the Tsauchab River Camp. They offer fresh bread from their oven, chalets, and campsites. Everything is homemade. You can also get meals: light lunches, dinner, breakfast packs, lunch packs, or supper baskets. Or just shop from the small farm store, which sells meat, fresh bread, and garden salads.
You can go on game drives, hiking, mountain biking, or take a walk to watch the sunset. Both guided and self-guided options are available, but guided tours must be booked in advance and depend on availability.
There are five hiking trails, from 2.5 km to 21 km long, suitable for all ages.
Some of the trails include the Mountain Zebra Hike, the Kudu Hike (which goes up Rooikop Mountain), the Quiver Tree Hike, and the Wild Fig Stroll, which takes about 1.5 hours. You can see birds, natural springs, and old wild fig trees. Another trail is the 1.4 km Namib Desert View Walk, which gives you beautiful views of the Namib Desert.
There is also the 4×4 Klipspringer Trail in the Tsaris Mountains. It is good for both beginners and experienced 4×4 drivers. This trail also links with the 21 km hiking route.
If you want to explore more, you can book a tour to the Namib Naukluft Quiver Tree Forest. This dense forest lies hidden in a valley in the Namib Desert.
Lastly, don’t forget to visit a good sundowner spot. There are three: Tsaris View, Eagle View, and Platkop View. You can go with a guide or by yourself. Just relax and enjoy the view.
