Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park - Namibia

The Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park, located in central Namibia, is part of the larger Namib-Naukluft National Park, one of the largest protected areas in Africa.  Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park is a protected reserve of Namibia. It is located south of Gamsberg Nature Reserve, northwest of Hardap Game Reserve and north of Namib-Naukluft National Park. Established in 1968, the park was originally created to conserve the rare Hartmann's mountain zebra, a species endemic to the area. Over time, it has become a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering breathtaking landscapes and a variety of wildlife. The park's rugged terrain, featuring deep canyons, towering cliffs, and rolling plains, provides a unique habitat for these zebras as well as other species like klipspringers, oryx, and baboons.

The Naukluft section of the Namib-Naukluft Park was initially created as a sanctuary for the Hartmann's mountain zebra. The mountainous area is extremely beautiful as well as having an interesting history and geography. The Naukluft Mountains are very popular for hiking and four wheel drive trails and even offer something for the more sedentary, as the beautiful rock pools near the Kudusrus campsite are the ideal place to spend a day lazing in the sun.

The Naukluft Mountains are part of the high rising escarpment which marks the western edge of the interior highlands of Namibia. The flat, plateau like top of the mountain complex is separated from the adjacent highland plateau to the south by impressive near vertical cliffs, while in the north west and west its highest peaks loom almost a thousand meters above the plains of the Namib. The plateau top consists mainly of dolomite and limestone formations. 

The Naukluft Mountains are a key attraction, with dramatic vistas and diverse plant life, including many species of succulents and aloes that thrive in the arid conditions. Visitors can explore the park on several well-marked hiking trails, ranging from short walks to multi-day treks. The Naukluft Hiking Trail, one of the most challenging in Namibia, is particularly popular with avid hikers and offers an immersive experience into the park’s scenic beauty. The water sources and springs in the area support a surprising amount of greenery, providing refreshing stops along the trails.

In addition to hiking, the park is also an excellent destination for birdwatching, with a wide variety of species present, including black eagles and the elusive rock kestrel. The natural beauty of the Naukluft area, combined with its sense of remoteness, makes it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and adventure in one of Namibia’s most rugged environments.

Contact Details for Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park:
Location: Part of Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Phone: +264 (0) 61 284 2111 (Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism)

For more information on visiting the park, including permits, hiking routes, and accommodation options, contact the Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.