The Tsau Khaeb National Park, previously referred to as the Sperrgebiet National Park, has been inaccessible to the public for nearly a century. This prolonged isolation has allowed the park to preserve its perfect natural beauty, making it a hidden gem eagerly awaiting discovery by tourists visiting the country.
The name Tsau Khaeb originates from the locals and can be loosely translated to mean soft sand, with Tsau signifying soft and Khaeb also meaning soft. The Park was initially restricted after German colonialists found diamonds in the nearby town of Kolmanskop, which is now a ghost town.
This closure was intended to deter anyone attempting to smuggle the diamonds through the park. While the park’s closure presented numerous drawbacks, it did result in one significant benefit: the preservation of both the wildlife and the vegetation within the national park.
Many consider it one of the new protected areas established to safeguard wildlife, having been opened in 2008. Dedicated birdwatchers consider it a premier birding location and a hub of biodiversity, thanks to the presence of the exceptionally rare Karoo bird species.
The National Park boasts numerous tourist attractions, including over 200 bird species, diverse wildlife, lush vegetation, the Orange River, several sand dunes, and picturesque valleys. Each of these elements promises to keep you engaged during your visit to the park.
What to do in Tsau Khaeb National Park
Experience wildlife in Tsau Khaeb National Park
The national park serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, offering opportunities for observation nearly year-round. It is home to approximately 120 recorded reptile species, alongside a diverse array of animals, including the Oryx, grey rhebok, springboks, southern right whale, cape fur seal, brown hyenas, black-backed jackal, and cheetahs, though the latter are seldom spotted. Other inhabitants include the bat-eared fox, African wild cat, clawless otters, and leopards, which are also infrequently seen, among various other species.
The optimal time for observing animals is during periods of minimal rainfall, which occurs throughout most of the year. However, visiting during the cooler months from May to September is advisable, as the heat may be quite intense.
Birding in Tsau Khaeb National Park
The national park is home to approximately 200 bird species that breed in multiple locations throughout the park. The park is primarily home to wetland birds and sea birds, along with the migratory birds that arrive during the dry season. Birding in the Tsau Khaeb is an activity that can be enjoyed year-round; however, for those interested in observing migratory birds arriving from various regions of the African continent, the ideal period is from November to April.
While visiting Tsau Khaeb National Park, you can encounter several bird species, including penguins, the Karoo bustard, the African black oystercatcher, the endemic Dune lark, the pink lesser flamingo, the Goliath heron, the cape gannet, purple heron, the near endemic Damara tern, the Maccoa duck, black-headed canary, the greater flamingo, the sacred ibis, and many others.
Bush walks
The Tsau Khaeb National Park features a variety of marked trek routes designed to enhance the bushwalking experience for visitors. These activities are conducted under the supervision of a tour guide, typically taking place very early in the morning during the summer months, before the park’s heat becomes exhausting.
During your bush walks, you will discover how to track various animals in the park, observe tiny animals that you may have overlooked while driving, and gain survival skills through the engaging stories shared by the tour guides.
You’ll also learn about the medicinal properties of the trees found in the park and have the opportunity to spot different bird species residing in the trees. As you embark on these walks, remember to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Accommodations in Tsau Khaeb National Park
As there are no options for staying or sleeping within the national park, accommodations are available outside the park and are categorized into top-rated, budget, and tonight options. The accommodations provided cater to clients seeking a luxurious experience, offering essential amenities such as free WIFI, breakfast, and a restaurant, all contributing to their premium pricing.
Kairos Cottage
This location is 7.3km from the park, featuring a five-star cottage with professional hospitality services. It is within walking distance to Shark Island and just a 13-minute drive to Luderitz airport.
Wildhorses Bed and Breakfast and Self-Catering
This accommodation is located 7km from the park and offers double or twin rooms with shared bathrooms. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and excellent services during their stay.
Lüderitz Nest Hotel
This hotel is located 6.4km from the park and is one of the few in the area that offers air conditioning. It is within walking distance to the Luderits Museum and Felsenkirche. Additionally, there is a front desk available 24 hours a day.
Budget Accommodations
These options consistently remain under USH 300,000, making them accessible for individuals who prefer to spend less on their accommodations.
Lüderitz Backpackers
This location is 7.3km from the park, offering excellent service. It is an 11-minute drive to Luderitz airport and within walking distance to the Luderitz Museum and Felsenkirche.
OceanLife Luderitz
At OceanLife Luderitz, you will find complimentary WiFi and free parking, conveniently situated within a 3-minute walk of Ceorke Haus and 1200 feet from the Luderitz Museum, providing a safe, affordable, clean, and comfortable experience.
Best Time to visit Tsau Khaeb National Park
Tsau Khaeb National Park is accessible year-round, featuring two distinct seasons: the rainy and dry seasons. This allows visitors to choose their timing based on personal preferences. The best period for a visit is during the cooler months from May to October. In contrast, the summer season from November to April can be extremely hot, yet it offers exceptional opportunities for bird watching. The peak season of Tsau Khaeb National Park occurs from July to November, attracting many tourists who enjoy group tours.
Conversely, those who prefer a quieter experience will find the low season, from December to June, more appealing. During this time, accommodations and transport rates decrease due to lower visitor numbers, allowing for a more authentic experience of the park without distractions.
