Spitzkoppe
Leaving the sandy dunes behind, we venture to Spitzkoppe – a striking granite inselberg (isolated mountain) often called the “Matterhorn of Namibia” for its shape. Spitzkoppe’s dramatic peaks rise roughly 700 meters above the desert floor in Namibia’s Erongo region. This area is a paradise for landscape photographers, offering a completely different environment: giant boulders and arches, golden granite surfaces, and wide-open desert plains stretching out around the mountain. The light at Spitzkoppe is magical at both sunrise and sunset, painting the rocks in hues of gold and orange that contrast beautifully with the deep blue sky.
Landscape and light: In the early morning, as the sun peeks over the horizon, Spitzkoppe’s main peak catches the first rays and glows warm orange, while the surrounding plains are still in cool shadow. This contrast can make the mountain appear almost on fire with color. Sunset is equally spectacular, with the granite taking on rich red-orange tones. The rock formations here, sculpted by wind over millions of years, offer endless compositions. A favorite spot of mine is the rock arch – a large natural archway on Spitzkoppe’s side, from which you can photograph the arch itself as a frame around the distant peak. Shooting through the arch at sunrise or sunset creates a naturally framed composition that’s hard to beat.
Spitzkoppe isn’t just one peak; the area includes several rounded bouldery outcrops and smaller peaks. Take time to explore on foot. Hike among the boulders to find unique angles: perhaps a lone quiver tree or scrubby bush in the foreground with the towering rock behind, or reflections in seasonal rain pools among the rocks (if you visit after rare rains). There are also ancient San (Bushman) rock paintings in some sheltered areas of Spitzkoppe – these petroglyphs can add a cultural element to your shots if you incorporate them carefully (and respectfully; never touch or damage them). The juxtaposition of prehistoric art with a dramatic landscape reminds us how long humans have been inspired by this place.
Astrophotography heaven: One of Spitzkoppe’s greatest gifts to photographers is its night sky. Far from any city, the area has virtually no light pollution, making it one of the darkest skies in the world. On a moonless night, the Milky Way spills across the sky in brilliant detail. The massive rocks of Spitzkoppe make perfect foreground subjects for star photography. Imagine the Milky Way arching above the Spitzkoppe arch formation – a composition many astrophotographers dream of. When I lead night shoots here, I often help students light-paint the arch gently with a low-level light or capture silhouettes of the rocks against the starry band. If you visit between May and September, the galactic core of the Milky Way is visible in the evening – prime time for Milky Way shots (usually best a couple of hours after sunset once the sky is fully dark).
Tips for Spitzkoppe Photography:
Plan for Golden Hours: The harsh midday sun can bleach out the subtleties of the rock textures. Plan your key landscape shots for early morning or late afternoon when the low sun angle rakes across the granite, creating long shadows and depth. During mid-day, you can scout locations or even shoot details like close-ups of rock textures or the flora/fauna.
Compositional Elements: Use the environment to your advantage. The arch is a natural frame; other ideas include using boulders as leading lines or foreground interest. If there are a few sparse clouds, they can add drama to the vast blue sky – consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of sky and rock. Also try a panorama: a sweeping pano of the entire Spitzkoppe range against the desert makes a stunning wide image (just ensure your tripod is level when panning for a panorama).
Night Photography: Bring a sturdy tripod and a fast wide lens (e.g. 14mm-20mm at f/2.8 or faster). Focus manually (use live view to focus on a bright star or distant light). Typical settings for the Milky Way here: 20-25 second shutter, ISO 3200 (adjust as needed), aperture wide open. Take test shots and check your focus and composition. I recommend scouting your night composition in daylight so you know where to set up in the dark. Also, safety first – watch your footing around rocks at night, and consider not venturing alone.
Camping vs Lodge: Spitzkoppe has a rustic campsite run by the local community, with basic facilities and the luxury of solitude. If you camp, you can be on location for sunrise and have the stars right above your tent all night. If camping’s not your style, you can stay in a lodge or guesthouse in Uis or Usakos (towns an hour or so away) or even in Swakopmund (a bit further), but you’ll miss the very early and late hours unless you drive in pre-dawn. For committed photographers, an overnight at Spitzkoppe is highly recommended to maximize golden hour and astro opportunities.
Photographing Spitzkoppe is a lesson in patience and observation. As the day progresses, the scene changes dramatically with the light. Midday, the rocks might look pale and flat; but come late afternoon, they regain their rich color and every crack casts a shadow. I often tell photographers to slow down and watch the light here. Maybe take a break in the shade during the hottest part of day, then re-emerge when the sun is lower. And at night, lie back on a rock and take in the cosmic spectacle above – it’s an awe-inspiring experience that also gives you ideas for your next shot.
In Spitzkoppe’s silence, with only a faint breeze and perhaps the distant call of a jackal, you’ll feel a deep connection to the land. It’s one of those places where time seems to slow down. Many of my favorite Namibia images – and memories – come from long evenings and pre-dawn hours at Spitzkoppe, capturing a landscape that feels almost Martian in its beauty. Don’t rush your visit here; let Spitzkoppe’s calm and grandeur guide your creativity.
We have also written pages that describe our other favorite locations in Namibia. Please continue reading about some of the other areas that keep us going back to Namibia with small groups.
Our favorite WIldlife areas we like to visit in Namibia
Deadvlei and Sossusvlei - one of the most dramatic landscape photography areas we have ever visited
Kolmanskop - the abandoned mining town being taken back by the desert.
The Quiver Trees Forest - a favorite for astrophotographers
The Himba Tribe - a fantastic experience to visit these nomadic people in their villages
We have written a section on photography gear suggestions to take to Namibia
Thinking of joining a Namibia photo tour? Learn the skills we teach on our Namibia Photo workshops
Learn what to expect on one of our Namibia photo tours, and what tours we are leading