The Waterberg Plateau Park is characterized by towering sandstone cliffs, dinosaur footprints, mysterious rock engravings, and some of Namibia’s rarest and most valuable game species. In 1904, Waterberg witnessed a confrontation between Herero warriors and German colonial forces. The Herero fighters faced a devastating defeat at the hands of their oppressors, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives during their ensuing retreat through the Omaheke Region into Botswana.
Recognized as a haven for rare and endangered game species, Waterberg has been essential in breeding species for the restocking of other parks and conservation areas. The region is also the last refuge for the remaining population of Cape Vultures in Namibia. The park has been divided into management areas designated for wilderness, trophy hunting, and tourism.
The Bernabé de la Bat Rest Camp stands out as one of Namibia’s most frequented resorts, with thousands of local community members benefiting from training at the Okatjikona Environmental Education Centre each year. Designated as Waterberg Plateau Park in 1972 and spanning 405 km², the park boasts natural features such as a 50-km-long porous sandstone mountain, rich wildlife, distinctive vegetation, and a collection of permanent springs located at the base of the plateau.
What to do in Waterberg Plateau Park
Cultural tour
Cultural walks organized for the Herero community offer some of the most enriching experiences during a tour of the Waterberg Plateau Park, typically lasting around three to four hours.
The Herero people are famous for the Waterberg war that occurred between them and the German colonialists. Although they faced defeat in this conflict, their rich history and culture offer a valuable experience, especially for those who have the opportunity to taste the local cuisine prepared by the community.
Hiking through the Waterberg plateau
The Waterberg plateau stands out as an exceptional hiking destination in Namibia, thanks to its numerous hiking routes. However, accessing these trails requires the accompaniment of a tour guide. Some of these hiking trails vary in length, with some being longer and others shorter. Eventually, the choice of which one to take is yours, but it would be beneficial to experience all of them before your safari concludes. The hike routes in the Waterberg plateau encompass the following:
The hiking trail in the Waterberg plateau typically spans four days and covers approximately 50 kilometers. The journey starts at the resort’s office, with three nights spent at various shelters established along the route. Upon reaching the peak, you turn around and head back to the resort. During your hike on this trail, ensure you bring all essential items, and be aware that the maximum group size permitted is ten individuals.
The Panorama trail begins at the camp and ascends to the peak, taking approximately 45 minutes to complete. This trail is one of the nine short hikes found within the plateau and is among the easiest options available.
The extensive hiking trails on the plateau are divided into two sections: the southern side and the western part of the plateau. These events are held biannually and serve as an excellent opportunity to discover the park and its resident wildlife.
Booking the long hikes in advance enhances the experience, and it’s important to note that these hikes take place during the dry season. In the wet season, certain routes may become inaccessible and slippery, posing challenges for tourists attempting to complete the hikes.
The wilderness trail requires approximately three days to complete and provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Plateau Park as you traverse its paths. The hike route spans approximately 42 kilometers and is not suited for the faint-hearted. To successfully complete this hike, it’s advisable to maintain your own pace while trekking. However, remember to go with an experienced tour guide for assistance along the way.
Game drives
Game drives in the Waterberg Plateau Park require the presence of a tour guide; self-driving through the park is not permitted. The game drives are primarily scheduled for the mornings and afternoons, and they can be conveniently booked in advance at the offices, ensuring that the tour guides are prepared by the time you arrive. The drives typically last around three to four hours, during which you can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, including porcupines, black rhinos, zebras, kudus, baboons, leopards, warthogs, cheetahs, brown hyenas, black-backed jackals, bush babies, giraffes, and numerous other species.
Birdwatching
The Namibian government and tourists who have explored the plateau agree that it is among the finest birding locations in the country, particularly due to the numerous breeding spots located within Waterberg Plateau Park. The Waterberg Plateau Park is home to approximately 200 bird species, with some of the most frequently observed being the violet wood hoopoe, the rock runner, the Orange River francolin, the Tinkling Cisticola, and the booted eagle.
The bush surrounding the cliffs offers an excellent opportunity for birding, featuring species such as Bennet’s woodpecker, the crested francolin, the African red-eyed bulbul, green-winged pytilia, southern yellow-billed hornbill, cardinal woodpecker, golden-breasted bunting, red-billed spurfowl, African grey hornbill, and many others.
The fig forests serve as a great spot for birding, hosting a variety of species such as the Ruppell’s parrot, rufous-billed tit, rock runner, Bradfield’s hornbill, tinkling Cisticola, and numerous other birds.
Visit the Waterberg headstone
The headstone was constructed to honor the conflict that occurred between the Herero people and the German colonialists in 1904. The conflict with the Germans was spearheaded by Samuel Maharero, and the headstones located on the plateau serve as a memorial for the German colonialists who lost their lives during the battle. Guides will provide insights into the plateau’s history and accompany you as you explore the area.
