The Otjihaenamaparero Dinosaur Tracks near Kalkfeld give the destination a distinctive palaeontological focus. More than 350 footprints are part of this site. Visits are possible by prior arrangement; permission from the farm owner and a guide are required. Anyone including the tracks in their travel plans should treat this coordination as the first practical step. It is part of planning the stay, just like choosing accommodation.

What makes the dinosaur tracks special

The site offers several points of interest for dinosaur enthusiasts: the footprints include tracks attributed to Coelophysis and Ceratosaurus species. The longest tracks can be more than 30 metres long. This describes the possible length of the longest tracks, not the measurement of each individual footprint. The details can be understood separately: more than 350 refers to the number of footprints at the site, the names identify the species represented, and the possible length gives an idea of the scale of the largest tracks. Those interested in palaeontology can therefore appreciate the site both for the number of footprints and for their attribution and size.

Visiting and preparing

The terrain and recommendations should also be taken into account when preparing. The terrain across which the tracks run is mostly flat. Water and sturdy footwear are recommended for a visit. Consider these as separate notes: the terrain description concerns the area where the tracks run; water and footwear are practical recommendations for the visit. This allows you to factor both the nature of the terrain and your preparations into your plans.

A distinctive connection with nature in Otjozondjupa

The wider destination of Otjozondjupa is home to Waterberg Plateau Park. The park has abundant wildlife and unique vegetation. It also has a rest camp with bungalows and camping facilities. Check whether the rest camp is currently operating before making plans. Guided wilderness walks may take place in the park. Booking is required for both guided and unguided plateau hikes. There are also short walking trails within the resort. When planning, it helps to distinguish between these options: the short trails are within the resort, while the booking requirement applies to plateau hikes. Also check the current trail conditions before setting out.

Choose accommodation based on the reason for your trip

In Kalkfeld, the nearby dinosaur tracks are a specific reason to visit; plan to see them only after making the required arrangements in advance and securing a guide. If you choose Waterberg Plateau Park as your focus, include its own trail and booking guidance, as well as the current operating status of the rest camp, in your plans. This way, you can plan your overnight stay once you have decided which visits you intend to make.

Discover more destinations: Outjo, Kombat, Epupa, Grootfontein, Otavi, Okahandja, Tsumkwe, Osona

For the overview of the wider destination: Otjozondjupa.