Von Bach Dam Nature Reserve

Von Bach Dam Nature Reserve is a small reserve, spanning a mere 43 square kilometres of the terrain surrounding one of Namibia’s large dams. The Von Bach area is popular with anglers and watersport enthusiasts. The riparian vegetation close to the water’s edge mixed with the savannah biome further inland provides an ecosystem that supports a variety of birdlife and small wildlife. The ephemeral Swakop River flows into the dam, which supplies Windhoek with most of its water supply.

Visitors are drawn to the reserve because of the dam and its spectacular surrounds. There are several picnic sites in the area, perfectly positioned to take advantage of the views. Because of the lack of dangerous predators, Von Bach Dam Nature Reserve is easily explored on foot.

Von Bach Dam Nature Reserve is located just 70 kilometres from the capital city of Windhoek. The closest town is three and a half kilometres from Okahandja which is where most visitors choose to stay.

Von Bach Dam Nature Reserve is not a renowned game viewing destination, but the area does support common Namibian species. Hartmann’s zebra, red hartebeest, oryx, impala, kudu, giraffe, warthog and small reptiles live there. Birdlife is abundant, in particular around the dam. It’s here where visitors can spot violet wood-hoopoe, black storks, Rüppell’s Parrot and the Bradfield’s Swift. Other species include the grey go-away bird, African jacana, marabou stork, cormorants and the kori bustard.

Von Bach enjoys a semi-arid climate and the best time to visit is from September to December when the weather is warm enough to indulge in watersports on the dam. This time of year is when the temperatures are warm, but there’s little rainfall. January is when the temperatures soar, and in June the temperatures drop. May to August is winter, and this generally the time for safaris.

The Von Bach Dam is home to water sports, birding and wilderness trails. Perfectly placed picnic spots offer fantastic vistas of the dam and its surrounds, and there are several dotted around the large body of water. Angling is the most popular activity in the area, but permits are required for this sport. There is an array of fish in the dam, from carp to African sharp tooth catfish and others.

Water-skiing, windsurfing, canoeing, yachting and boating are all popular sports in this reserve. Keen walkers can explore the area on foot in search of birdlife and wildlife.

Accommodation inside the reserve is possible but limited. There are basic self-catering huts and overnight camping facilities in the area. Just outside there is a resort with luxury accommodation, restaurant, parking, swimming pool and terrace. The park is located close to a supermarket, ideal for visitors booking self-catering accommodation.

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com