Spitzkop Namibia

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Spitzkop Nambia

Spitzkop, is a towering granite peak in the middle of the Namib desert, and is located a few hours drive west of the capital city, Windhoek. This mountain gives high quality rock climbing, scrambling and hiking. The massif consists of Gross Spitzkop and numerous satellite peaks including the “Pontok” peaks.

The “Spitzkoppe” as they are known by the German speaking inhabitants, rise from of the wind worn desert floor giving the visiting climber a taste of the vastness and beauty of Africa.

Rock Climbing

Spitzkop Standard Route

There are many different routes on the main peak and surrounding summits. Most are moderate slab or crack system routes that follow obvious lines of weakness. In recent years a number of moderate to extreme sport lines, including multi-pitch routes have been added to this venue.
The “Standard Route” and “Abrasion”, both classic moderate lines, give very good traditional climbing. Both these routes take all day to complete and descent is by multiple abseils.
There are a few moderate-to-extreme sport routes located on the smaller buttresses. Of interest is a line called “Desert Rose” which consists of 6 pitches all of grade 13.

Hiking
The area gives very good walking and scrambling. These walks are good alternatives during non-climbing days or for family members to enjoy. There is a wide variety of desert vegetation, animals and birds to be observed.
Guided Trips Trips to Spitzkop are carried out on a pay-asyou-go system. The Guide is paid a daily fee plus all other expenses.

Clients meet the Guide either in Windhoek or in South Africa and then the party flies to Namibia. From there a car is hired to get to the mountain. (Other over-land options can be organised on request.)

The best time to visit this area is in the winter months from June to August. Peak High provides all the climbing and camping equipment and makes the necessary arrangements. Quotations are made up for each individual expedition.

About Peak High Mountaineering and Gavin: Peak High Mountaineering is owned by Gavin Raubenheimer and has been operating since 1992. The business is registered with Tourism KwaZulu-Natal as a Tour Operator. Gavin Raubenheimer is a certified Mountaineering Instructor (M.I.A.) endorsed by the Mountain Development Trust of SA and the U.I.A.A. He is a NQF National Mountaineering, Cultural and Nature Guide (NQF level 4). Gavin is a past President of the KwaZulu-Natal Section of the Mountain Club of SA. He has been involved in mountain rescue since 1992 and since 2005 has been the Convener of Mountain Rescue in the province. He is sponsored by first Ascent outdoor clothing company and by RAM Mountaineering.

Abseiling down Spitzkop, Namibia

Spitzkop Summit