The Waterberg Plateau east of Otjiwarongo towers over the surrounding plains, being about 200 metres higher. The 20 kilometre wide and 50 kilometre long table mountain massif consists of porous sandstone. Rainwater trickles through the permeable stone and collects on top of a impervious clay layer. Whilst the plateau is arid on top, there is a lot of surface water and strong permanent springs at the foot of the mountain. The vegetation is, therefore, quite lush and green and diverse. One can, for example, find wild fig trees, fire lillies and coral trees. The area is also rich in fauna.
The Waterberg Region is part of the main settling area of the Herero people. In August 1904, about 40.000 Herero men, women and children under the leadership of Samuel Maharero, were surrounded by 1600 German colonial soldiers at the Waterberg and, in a devastating battle, almost annihilated. Only a few Herero were able to escape through the Kalahari desert to Botswana. A military cemetery acts as a reminder of the tragic events
Waterberg Plateau National Park, Namibia
Waterberg Plateau National Park, Namibia
Waterberg Plateau National Park, Namibia
Waterberg Plateau National Park, Namibia
Waterberg Plateau National Park, Namibia
