Namibia Desert Elephant Trek

Fri 12th - Sun 21st October 2007

EHRA is running a fundraising trek through Damaraland this October. By raising money to take part on this trek you will provide much needed funds for education programs and for the necessary materials and labour to protect and develop sustainable water points. You can help make a real difference to these communities by helping EHRA promote a future where these very special elephants can live in harmony with local farmers.

DAY 1: total distance 8km

Arrive at Windhoek International Airport where the group is collected by coach. We transfer to the start of the trek at the foot of the majestic Brandberg Mountain. At 2573m this massive volcanic feature is the highest in Namibia and will dominate the route as you make your way towards the Skeleton Coast.
From where the coach leaves us we will walk 8km to the area adjacent to the Ugab River and our first camp under the stars. Tonight the group will be briefed by EHRA staff about the challenge, the route, the area and in particular the desert elephants.

DAY 2: total distance 20k

After an early rise and breakfast we split into our walking groups and head through the ephemeral Ugab Riverbed up onto the calcrete escarpment north of the river, where lunch will be after 10km.
This afternoon’s walk follows the escarpment line towards the dune fields with dramatic views of the Ugab River valley and the stunning Brandberg. Our camp for this evening is after another 10km where we can enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets the Namib can offer.

DAY 3: total distance 30,2km

We rise early to face a long and tough day. We make our way north-west from the river across the vegetated dune fields where we could catch a glimpse of the elusive kudu found in this area. Climbing out of the dune field we head for the only Mopane tree on these unforgiving sandy plains where we stop for lunch.
After lunch we continue towards the Guantagab River through rugged sedimentary hills, scattered with Commifora trees looking like miniature Baobabs. This area is frequented by the desert adapted Black Rhino, (Diceros Bicornis Bicornis). Nearly hunted to extinction in the 80’s their numbers are up to around 130 individuals walking free in the northern part of the Namib Desert, but with home ranges of up to 750 square km’s and their secretive nature, we would be lucky to even see their tracks. Tonight we camp amongst granite outcrops in the wilderness area south of Doros Crater, an afternoons walk of 15,4km.

DAY 4: total distance 20,9km

After breakfast we head north over the plains towards Doros Crater. We have lunch at the foot of this 140 million year old volcanic crater a walk of 11,3km. After lunch we follow Mountain Zebra footpaths up the rim of the crater, walk through the caldera and over the opposite rim for some amazing views towards the Skeleton Coast. Following an ancient Elephant path we are lead to our camp, which is 9,6km away, through beautiful granite features and an area frequented by oryx, ostrich and springbok
After dinner there will be an optional talk and practical session on astronomy, as the nights sky in this area is renowned for the plentitude of stars and incredible visibility.

DAY 5: total distance 20,5km

This mornings walk takes us towards the Mikberg, following game trails through typical Damaraland mars ion landscapes. Here we find the ancient Welwitchia Mirabilis plants eking out an existence on the plains. After lunch on the plains, which was 12,7km from this morning’s start, we pass the Petrified Forest (fossil remains of huge coniferous trees washed down during a rainy period millions of years ago). Onwards past fossil dunes we arrive at Gai-Ais fountain where we camp for the night, 7,8km. For sunset, we walk up a ridge to a breathtaking viewpoint watching the mist roll in from the Atlantic Ocean.

DAY 6: total distance 27,9km

Our last day full day’s walking takes us down to the Ugab River again, through valleys of folded sediments covering over 200 million years of geological history. Lunch is in one such valley after 15,4km, from where we continue to our camp close to the linear oasis of the Ugab. In this area the famed Desert Elephant roam, and we will tread carefully!

DAY 7: total distance 13km

A final walk out of the river valley brings us to the Brandberg West Mine where our coaches await us for the journey to Swakopmund on the Skeleton Coast. Total distance to Swakopmund is 230km and travel time will be approximately 2,5 hours. The gala evening will be held tonight!

Day 8

Return to Windhoek airport for flight to Heathrow.