​About The Mesosaurus Fossil Site

Keetmanshoop is rightly famous for its fine German fare and as a gateway to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. It is also a springboard from which to explore the wonders of the Quiver Tree forest and Mesosaurus Fossil site about 40km away.

This incredible two-in-one attraction is too far from your accommodation in Windhoek for a daytrip. However, it’s worth a visit if you are on your way to the Kgalagadi or have planned a stay in Keetmanshoop as part of your Namibian experience.

Walk This Way

There are 3 ways to enjoy your time at this enigmatic place.

• Take a self-guided hike among the interesting dolerite rock formations and Namibia’s largest collection of quiver trees
• Climb up the High Clearance Route to look over the valley and hills where these 5 000 specimens grow
• Enjoy a guided hike with the owner of the property, Giel Steenkamp

Tales of Yore

On a guided hike, the charming Giel Steenkamp will fill you in on all the details about these amazing trees. He’ll also tell you how his son, who was then 10 years old, found some strange looking impressions on the rocks here.

Further investigation revealed that these designs are all that’s left of the mesosaurus which occurred here 250 million years ago. These miniature crocodile-like creatures with their long snouts and teeth provide important evidence to support the theory of continental drift. The only other similar fossils are found in South America, which suggest that the two main lands were once a single chunk of rock.

Steenkamp will also show you the German Schutztruppen graves. Here two German Shutztruppers (the official name of the colonial troops in the African territories of the 19th century) lie in eternal rest overlooking this unique forest. They met their end in the historic battle between the German forces and the local Nama people.

The Original Rock Music

You’ll enjoy an introduction to authentic Namibian rock music courtesy of Mr. Steenkamp. His repertoire consists of only two songs – Frere Jacques and iNkosi sikelele Afrika but it’s the performance that is impressive. He hammers out these tunes on a granite rock face, using a stick. It’s an amusing and entertaining end to your tour.

Another great aspect of this property is the overnight accommodation offered in simple, rustic chalets in this magical environment.

If you are driving from South Africa to your accommodation in Windhoek, the Mesosaurus Fossil Bush Camp is a great place for an overnight stop, just 5 hours from the capital. Start planning your adventures now.

Disclaimer

Please Note: The details shared herein were correct at the time of publishing. However, with time some of this information may change. We recommend confirming information with suppliers prior to making final travel arrangements. If you do happen to find an issue with any information we’ve shared here, please feel free to contact us so that we can make the relevant changes.