Brandberg aims for World Heritage Status
More than just a mountain
The Erongo Region is setting its sights on global recognition for one of Namibia’s most iconic landmarks – the mighty Brandberg– by nominating it for UNESCO World Heritage status.Speaking during her regional address in Swakopmund on Wednesday, Erongo governor Nathalia /Goagoses confirmed that the Brandberg – or Dâures, as it’s known in Khoekhoegowab – is a strong contender. “Together with the Namib Desert, the world’s oldest, the Brandberg makes Erongo the go-to destination for tourists,” she said.
Towering more than 2 500 metres above sea level, the Brandberg is Namibia’s highest peak and can even be seen from space. But it’s not just its height that makes it special. The mountain is home to more than 43 000 rock paintings spread across over 900 locations, including the famous White Lady, which is over 2 000 years old. Experts believe these artworks date back as far as 4 000 years, capturing the rich history and culture of the region’s early inhabitants.
Brandberg has been a protected national monument since 1951, and access to its trails and rock art is strictly regulated. Visitors must get permits from the National Heritage Council of Namibia and be accompanied by official guides to help preserve its fragile environment.
The push to secure UNESCO recognition, which has been on hold since the site was added to Namibia’s tentative list in 2002, is now gaining momentum. Achieving full World Heritage status would not only boost conservation but also attract more international tourists and unlock valuable funding.
“It’s all part of our broader strategy to showcase Erongo’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and marine biodiversity,” /Goagoses said.
If successful, Brandberg would become Namibia’s third World Heritage Site, joining the Namib Sand Sea and Twyfelfontein. But this mountain is more than just a stunning backdrop, it’s a living archive. Experts describe it as a “time capsule” that reveals how early humans lived and adapted to harsh desert conditions. It’s also home to unique desert-adapted wildlife and at least 11 plant species found nowhere else on Earth.
To seal the deal, Namibia will need to finalise detailed management plans, consult with local communities, and officially submit the application to UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre in Paris.
If it all goes according to plan, Brandberg could soon take its rightful place on the world stage, not just as a Namibian treasure, but as a site of global significance.