:: Waterberg Plateau Park
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Waterberg is a 150m high plateau of vividly coloured sandstone rising out of the surrounding plains like a towering oasis. Up to 16km wide, the top of the plateau is covered with lush vegetation and offers habitat to many rare and endangered species such as sable and roan antelope, tsessebe and white rhino.
Leopards are also found, as are buffalo and over 200 bird species! Due to the dense nature of the vegetation, game viewing is usually limited, but the morning and afternoon drives which can be arranged from the National Parks office still offer a very interesting experience. There are various walking trails leading around the sides and up to the top of the plateau and these offer exceptional views of the surrounding countryside.
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A three-day guided hiking trail on the plateau accommodating 6-8 people can be arranged through the Ministry of Environment & Tourism, but must be booked in advance.
The route taken varies depending on the group and the guide, accommodation is in simple huts along the way. Walkers must provide their own sleeping bags and food. A four day, 42 km, self-guided trail can also be booked for groups of 3-10 people. Accommodation is also in simple huts and walkers must provide their own sleeping bags and food. Both hikes are run between April and November, thus avoiding the hot and rainy summer months. A wonderful spring fed swimming pool is located close to the restaurant and there are comfortable National Park chalets as well as a camping site. Waterberg is a convenient stop over on the way up to Etosha, and is a very relaxing place to spend a night or two.
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