Experiences of a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer in Namibia (2016-19) and further adventures…
Back on the trail: Rössing Mountain
It’s been awhile, but I finally got out in the desert again recently, climbing the peaks of Rössingberge, 20km from Arandis. It’s the tallest range in the area, viewable from my front porch, and has been a target of mine since I arrived last June. Fellow PCV Eric visited from nearby Karibib and we hitchhiked to the access road off the main B2 Highway. There were trails to two of the peaks but we found ourselves scrambling up scree slopes and along ridges of loose rocks to the others.
As you can see below, the views were spectacular in all directions and highlighted the special kind of beauty we have in the desert.
The view on the access road from the B2 Highway.
On the Eastern slopes, winds across the desert over eons have deposited sand up the side of the range, reducing its elevation.The Western slopes, in contrast, are much taller. The fog bank in the distance is at the coast near Swakopmund.As far as the eye could see!While I was content on the summit of the first peak…Eric climbed the comms tower for an even better view. Can you see him, about 2/3 of the way up?It’s hard to get a sense of the scale of the range, but this might help. Here’s “Eric’s Tower” atop the southern peak.The route between peaks often brought us into sand washes like this.We were continually surprised by unique geological formations.
And, of course, never-ending views!
Eric made a balancing rock pile.
The steeps sides to this ridge and the loose rocks made some of the going quite precarious! We definitely needed both hands and feet.
Atop the 2nd summit.Another view of the sand on the Eastern slopes …… compared to the steeper Western slope with higher elevations.Back on level ground, a natural salt pond provided a refreshing reward on the return hike.A good day out – thanks, Eric!
Until 2019, I served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Namibia focused on Community Economic Development. Before that, I was a high-tech executive, small business owner, consultant and business broker.
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