Namibia Day 4: Amanzi River Camp (Orange River) - Klein Aus
Start: Amanzi River Camp
Destination: Klein Aus Vista
Region: Kharas
Distance: 320 km
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Route Profile: Gravel road until just before Rosh Pinah, then the road is paved
Accommodation: Klein Aus Vista
Our Rating: 7/10
Fauna: Antelopes, zebras, ostriches, baboons, rock hyraxes, wild horses, African fish eagles, ospreys, Damara terns, white-breasted cormorants, spur-winged geese, gray herons, Stone’s grasshopper
Shopping: There is a shop at the Puma gas station in Aus
Food: Muesli, bread, peanut butter, banana, dinner at the restaurant
At the now pleasant temperatures, we wake up to the chirping of birds. Right on the Orange River at Amanzi River Camp, we prepare our breakfast and delight in the first animal sightings. Through binoculars, we spot numerous birds perched on the rocks high above the Orange River. It's a truly cozy spot right by the river, and we thoroughly enjoy the spectacle during our breakfast.
After a hearty breakfast, sufficient instant coffee, and a warm farewell from the owner, we continue our journey on the C13 road heading north towards Klein Aus. The C13 is considered one of the most beautiful gravel roads in Namibia. Initially, it runs along the Orange River and then through hilly terrain. The presence of so much water in this desert region is truly spectacular and attracts not only people but also countless animals. Right at the beginning, we encounter a large group of baboons crossing the road with their young ones. Besides the hilly road, there is much to see, and we frequently stop to savor nature. After about an hour, we turn right at Sendelingsdrift, while the river continues westward before flowing into the Atlantic in Alexander Bay. The surroundings change abruptly. Except for occasional quiver trees, there is no greenery in sight. Orange, red, yellow, and brown tones now dominate the landscape, and we consider whether we might have landed on Mars. The roads become narrower, and driving becomes incredibly fun.
Pleasure in the Morning at Amanzi River Camp
Baboons cross the road towards the Orange River
Orange River alongside the C13
River Crossing
Along the Orange River
founds along the road
dry area
Landscape of the C13
Around 3:30 PM, the Klein Aus Vista facility welcomes us with a beautiful main building, a terrace, and numerous well-maintained desert bushes and flowers. The park-like entrance area is lovingly designed. Christian had been here once before but couldn't secure a spot at that time. This time, we reserved two days in advance. The reception staff is extremely friendly, and the check-in process is very professional. The few camping sites are located about 5-10 minutes' drive from the main building on a hill between two mountains.
After a quick overview of our camping site today, we fill our water bottles and then embark on a short hike to the Stone Horse Viewpoint. The hike initially seems unspectacular, but it surprises us at the viewpoint with a brilliant panorama. From the Stone Horse Viewpoint, we can look down at an artwork - over 4,000 white stones arranged in the shape of a galloping horse on the ground. These stones were arranged in 2019 to draw attention to the declining population of Namib Wild Horses (desert horses).
We climb a bit higher. The panoramic view is breathtaking, the area with its desert colors is unique, and so we (once again) sit alone on the stones and enjoy the silence. At least until I start singing the song "Circle of Life" (The Lion King) loudly. The sun slowly sets, casting a golden glow over the entire land. Well, if this isn't like a scene from The Lion King! I am left speechless, savoring the moment. After climbing around on the rocks, we slowly walk back to our campsite.
With great hunger, we prepare our dinner (rice with minced meat, tomato sauce, and corn) and play Rummy until late at night. As it cools down again, we crawl into our sleeping bags at 9:00 PM. Under a clear starry sky and in absolute silence, we drift into our sleep.
The road to the Klein Aus Vista campsites
Klein Aus Vista Campsite amidst nature
The campsites are nestled between hills. In the foreground, the toilet facility.
Stone Horse Lookout
A landscape resembling Mars.
And always further up.
huge bird nest
In the evening, we usually play games.
The Milky Way could be seen with the naked eye.
