The Trailhead
Contents
All White Lady hikes begin at Brandberg Rest Camp, located at the end of a 13-kilometre gravel access road off the C35 highway. The turnoff is clearly signposted from the C35. GPS coordinates for Brandberg Rest Camp: approximately 21°09’S, 14°33’E.
From Swakopmund (approximately 275 km, 3 hours)
This is the most common approach for visitors coming from the coast.
- Take the B2 east from Swakopmund toward Windhoek.
- At Henties Bay junction (approximately 70 km), continue on the B2 or take the C35 north.
- The better route north is to continue on the B2 to the Uis turnoff (the D2303), then north on the D2303 through Uis to the C35, turning left (west/northwest) to the Brandberg turnoff.
Alternatively from Swakopmund: take the C34 coast road north to the C35 junction near the Ugab River, then southeast on the C35 to the Brandberg turnoff. This route is longer in distance but highly scenic along the Skeleton Coast.
Road conditions: The B2 between Swakopmund and the Uis area is tar. The D2303 through Uis is gravel, generally in good condition. The C35 is gravel. The 13-kilometre access road to the rest camp is gravel and is passable in a standard 2WD under dry conditions; a high-clearance vehicle handles the corrugations more comfortably.
Fuel: Fill up in Swakopmund before departing. Uis has a fuel station approximately 35 kilometres from the rest camp. Do not rely on it being open; fuel availability in small Namibian towns can be intermittent.
From Windhoek (approximately 310 km, 3.5 hours)
- Take the B1 north from Windhoek toward Okahandja.
- Turn left (west) on the B2 toward Swakopmund.
- Before reaching Swakopmund, take the turnoff north toward Henties Bay and then the C35 north through Uis.
- At Uis, continue northwest on the C35 to the Brandberg turnoff (approximately 35 km from Uis).
Road conditions: B1 and B2 are tar. C35 is gravel from Uis onward.
Fuel: Windhoek, then Okahandja or Karibib on the B2 if needed, then Uis. Carry a 10 to 20 litre fuel reserve if your vehicle allows it.
From Khorixas (approximately 115 km, 1.5 hours)
Khorixas is the administrative centre of the Kunene Region and a common overnight stop on Damaraland routes.
- Take the C35 south from Khorixas toward Uis.
- The Brandberg turnoff is approximately 80 kilometres south of Khorixas, before reaching Uis.
Road conditions: C35 gravel throughout. Generally well-maintained but can be heavily corrugated after rain or heavy traffic.
From Twyfelfontein (approximately 150 km, 2 hours)
For visitors combining both rock art sites:
- From Twyfelfontein, head south on the D3254 to the C39.
- East on the C39 to Khorixas.
- South on the C35 approximately 80 kilometres to the Brandberg turnoff.
Road conditions: Gravel throughout. The D3254 is one of the rougher sections; take it steadily.
Vehicle Requirements
A standard 2WD sedan can reach Brandberg Rest Camp in dry conditions, but it will be uncomfortable on the corrugated gravel roads. A high-clearance 2WD or 4WD makes for a significantly better experience on the C35 and access road.
A 4WD with low-range is not required for the standard visitor approach to the Brandberg. It becomes relevant only for the summit approach routes or for exploring secondary ravines off the main trail.
For broader guidance on self-driving in the Damaraland region, the Damaraland self-drive guide covers road types, fuel planning and vehicle recommendations in detail.
Practical Notes
- Always check road conditions locally before departing, particularly after rain. Gravel roads in Namibia can deteriorate quickly in wet conditions.
- The C35 is the main artery for this part of Damaraland. It sees regular traffic from tour operators and lodge vehicles.
- Carry at least 5 litres of drinking water in the vehicle beyond what you plan to take on the trail. Breakdowns in this landscape are uncommon but not impossible.
- The access road to the rest camp is a dead end. There is nowhere to turn around easily near the camp with a long vehicle; trailers are awkward.
The White Lady complete guide brings together all the planning information for the full visit.