Experience Waterberg Plateau National Park
Proclaimed in 1972, the park encompasses a massive, elevated brick-red sandstone plateau stretching 50 kilometers long and 16 kilometers wide. Because the top of the plateau is largely inaccessible from below, the Namibian government designated it as a breeding sanctuary for rare and threatened species, shielding them from poachers and predators. The park’s unique geology—where porous sandstone absorbs seasonal rainfall and releases it at the base via natural springs—sustains an uncharacteristically lush, green woodland ecosystem compared to the arid savannas below. Beyond its conservation success, Waterberg is deeply historical, marking the tragic 1904 Battle of Waterberg between the Herero people and German colonial forces.
Explore on Map
Iconic Highlights
1
The Wilderness Plateau: An exclusive, predator-free evolutionary haven used to breed and repopulate endangered game across Namibia.
2
Guided Plateau Game Drives: Specialized excursions in open 4x4 vehicles to the top of the plateau, which is closed to self-drive visitors.
3
Natural Springs Trail: A lush, self-guided walking path winding through the dense vegetation and fig tree forests at the base of the cliffs.
4
Mountain View Hike: A steep, rewarding short trek leading up to the edge of the plateau for expansive vistas over the vast Kalahari plains.
5
Historical Cemetery: A poignant colonial-era graveyard located near the park entrance, commemorating the casualties of the 1904 conflict.
Wildlife & Nature
Rhino
Leopard
Cheetah
Buffalo
Giraffe
Photo Gallery
Climate & When to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Monthly Averages
| Month | Temp High | Temp Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr | 28°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Aug | 26°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Dec | 30°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Feb | 31°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Jan | 32°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Jul | 23°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Jun | 23°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Mar | 30°C | --°C | -- mm |
| May | 26°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Nov | 33°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Oct | 33°C | --°C | -- mm |
| Sep | 30°C | --°C | -- mm |
Travel Requirements
Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months past your intended entry date with 2 blank pages.
Visa: Standard Namibian visa conditions apply (many Western nations are visa-exempt for holiday stays up to 90 days).
Health: Waterberg is classified as a low-risk Malaria area, but taking basic precautions or prophylaxis is recommended during the wet summer months.
Conservation Fees: Daily park entrance fees are payable per person and per vehicle at the Andersson Gate or the Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my own car onto the top of the plateau?
No. Private vehicles are strictly forbidden on top of the plateau to minimize environmental impact and protect the breeding species. You can explore the roads around the base yourself, but accessing the plateau requires booking an official NWR guided game drive.
Is Waterberg suitable for a multi-day hike?
Yes. The park features the unguided Waterberg Wilderness Trail (a 42km, 4-day backpacking trek) which opens seasonally from April to November. It requires advance booking, a medical certificate, and self-sufficiency.
Where can I stay when visiting the park?
Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) operates the Bernabé de la Bat Rest Camp at the base, offering comfortable chalets, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and campsites. There are also several acclaimed private lodges located on the reserve borders.