Waterberg Plateau Park

Waterberg Plateau Park | Namibia Hiking & Rhino Safari

Waterberg Plateau Park offers scenic hiking, rare wildlife, and rhino conservation set against a dramatic sandstone plateau.

Waterberg Plateau Park is a prominent national park in central Namibia, known for its dramatic table mountain and as a crucial sanctuary for rare and endangered wildlife. Located about 68 km southeast of the town of Otjiwarongo, the park plays a vital role in conservation, especially for species like the black and white rhinoceros, sable, and roan antelope.

• Wildlife Viewing: The park is a haven for over 90 mammal species and more than 200 bird species. Visitors can spot giraffe, buffalo, kudu, oryx, and an abundance of birdlife, including Namibia's only breeding colony of Cape vultures. Guided game drives are the primary way to see wildlife on the plateau; self-drive safaris are generally not permitted in sensitive areas.
• Hiking & Walking: Waterberg is a hiker's paradise, offering numerous options from short, self-guided walks around the main rest camp to challenging multiday wilderness trails (which require booking in advance with Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR)). The hike to the top of the plateau offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Kalahari plains.
• Geological & Historical Sites: The park features ancient rock strata over 850 million years old, 200-million-year-old dinosaur footprints, and a military cemetery that serves as a poignant reminder of the 1904 Battle of Waterberg, a significant historical event for the Herero people.
• Conservation Initiatives: Nearby the park, visitors can find conservation organizations such as the Cheetah Conservation Fund and the AfriCat Foundation, which offer additional educational activities and opportunities to see big cats up close.

• Accommodation: Options within the park and in adjacent private reserves include a resort with bungalows, a swimming pool, restaurant, and campsites. Booking through Namibia Wildlife Resorts or Waterberg Wilderness is recommended.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season from June to September is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources. The wet season from November to March is best for birdwatching and lush vegetation.
• Access: The park is approximately 300 km north of Windhoek and can be reached via a well-connected road network; the main entrance is at the Bernabe De La Bat Restcamp.