Cool pool: Ongongo Pool, Damaraland, Namibia

Ongongo Pool, Damaraland, Namibia

When you reach Ongongo Campsite in Damaraland, you deserve two things: a drink and a swim.

Owner Liana Greeff sells cooldrinks, so fulfil your first need at reception (you can also get fresh bread or a meal if you order beforehand). The swimming pool – some people refer to it as Blinkgatjie – is hidden away in the rocky, arid limestone kloof. The river forms a small waterfall between the huge boulders above the campsite and the pool is halfway under the rocks. This means you can swim in the shade. See if you can spot a terrapin. Also stand under the waterfall (it’s slippery, so be careful) and get a well-earned shoulder massage from the pounding water.

How to get there: In Warmquelle, look for a sign indicating a turn to the right (roughly to the north). Follow this rough track for about 6km to Ongongo. If in doubt, ask a local.

Cost: Camping costs R70 per adult, R50 for a child between 7 and 11, free for children under 6.

Contact: 00 264 81 314 0216; ongongo.campsite@hotmail.com

GO! says: The track to Ongongo is really bad – you’ll need a high-clearance vehicle like a bakkie.

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* Note: Prices accurate December 2010