The temperature started to rise as we headed inland from Swakopmund into the surreal landscape of the Erongo Mountain region. Herds of zebra, springbok, and ostrich sporadically watched us from the side of the road as we pushed onward to the Spitzkoppen Lodge, our beds for the night. The Spitzkoppen Lodge is nestled against mounds of giant granite boulders arranged by Mother Nature a millennium ago. The lodge grounds and chalets are artfully designed to blend with the natural environment providing an aura of sustainability and relaxation. Upon our arrival we were greeted with a tray of fresh juice, reviving us for an afternoon of landscape photography.

I had briefly traveled through this region once before and looked forward to my revisit with a camera. Unfortunately the light was dull this afternoon, the sky was heavy with clouds blocking the sun entirely. We waited and waited and waited and spent most of our time climbing boulders and socializing.

We ended our evening with a delightful multi-course meal comprised of local flavors. Delicious food and good company! I was a wee bit sad that we had to leave this oasis the next morning but we were expected at our next camp in the Damaraland.