cardboard box travel shop logo

Cardboard Box Travel Shop

Namibia


Bushman paradise Cave

Rock Paintings | Spitzkoppe | Namibia

Situated south-east of the Pondok Mountains, which form part of the Spitzkoppe Mountain range, is the Bushman Paradise Cave, located to the north-east of Usakos. It can be found at the base of a cliff and the foot of the slope is often washed by rain. They can be reached by following a road leading from the Spitzkoppe Mountains along the base of the Pondok Mountain. There is a chain handhold to assist you on your way up to the cave itself as the slope is smooth and slippery in places. At the top of the cave, and at the end of the chain handhold, an amphitheatre is to the right and the paintings can be found under the overhang at the head of the amphitheatre.

This cave has been known to Europeans since the beginning of the 20th century, and at the time of their discovery were documented as 'one of the finest collections of rock art in Namibia'. It was in 1917 that the first archaeological excavations were undertaken at Bushman Paradise Cave by the geologist E. Reuning.

In 1948, the archaeologist Abbé H Breuil noted that 'the convex rear wall of the shelter is covered from end to end with paintings, some of them excellent.' Unfortunately today they are badly damaged due to vandalism and sticky fingers from visitors and tourists. A few years later, the German archaeologist Dr. ER Scherz described the following figures inside the cave:

  • A giraffe.
  • Hartebeests.
  • Two hippopotami.
  • A jackal.
  • A kudu.
  • Numerous human figures.
  • A rhinoceros.
  • A sphinx with a thin body and thick buttocks.

The rock paintings in the Bushman Paradise Cave were proclaimed a national monument on the 1st July 1954.

Ai-Aiba Rock Lodge

Nestled in the majestic Erongo Mountains

Epako Game Farm

a 24 room lodge in the Erongo region of central Namibia

Erongo Wilderness Lodge

One of our favourite lodges in Namibia - excellent accommodation, food and beautiful surroundings make for an enjoyable and relaxing stay.

Etusis Lodge

A variety of activities are on offer at this lodge near Karibib

Hohenstein Lodge

Situated at the foot of the Hohenstein mountain, this lodge offers many hiking and climbing opportunities. It is also well situated to visit the Spitzkoppe Mountain.

Kashana Lodge

Accommodation in the small town of Omaruru.

Okomitundu Guest Farm

Specialising in family holidays and horse riding, Okomitundu offers plenty of activities

Villa Oleandra

A self catering villa in the heart of the charming town of Omaruru

Namibia Self Catering Accommodation