Biking, Hiking & Climbing
For the outdoor enthusiast, Namibia's communal conservancies offer the space for easy rides and gentle hikes or more strenuous challenges that will challenge the most serious biker, hiker and climber.
From long, flat roads that disappear in a heat haze to rugged mountain passes that seem to drop off into nowhere, bikers can follow the road or take to the mountains in pursuit of adventure. The choice is yours. Several joint venture lodges and community campsites have bikes that their guests can use or rent.
Hikes vary too, from challenging multi-day or overnight hikes in the heat and dust of the Kunene region to trails through long grass taken with the San as they follow and share the signs of the wild, to easy hikes where the destination is just on the horizon and the reward is a spectacular sundowner spot. When you stay at a conservancy joint venture lodge or community campsite, the options will be explained and the temptation to explore will be evident.
At 1,728 metres, the Spitzkoppe in the Gaingu Conservancy is one of Namibia's most popular destinations for climbing. Set out on one of more than 60 climbs at the Spitzkoppe and surrounding mountains. There are at least 30 natural – unsecured climbs or "free climbing" – and more than 30 sports climbs with established routes secured with bolts.
With permission from National Heritage Council of Namibia, it is possible to hike or climb the Brandberg Mountain with the Daureb Mountain Guides.
For more information on climbing in Namibia, visit the Namibian chapter of the Mountain Club of South Africa at www.mcnam.org.
