Granietkop campsite reopens after a decade

By Confidente Reporter
After more than ten years of closure, the Granietkop Campsite is again open to adventurers. Ultimate Safaris’ Conservation Travel Foundation and the Community Conservation Fund of Namibia invested N$ 1 million in the reopening of the
Doro ! Nawas Conservancy-owned Granietkop Campsite. The journey to revive Granietkop began in 2019 when Ultimate Safaris initiated discussions with the Doro !Nawas Conservancy is about redeveloping the
campsite, uniquely situated around an iconic granite outcrop along the D2612 road.

The collaboration was part of a broader effort that also included the development of Onduli Ridge in the area. However, the ambitious plans were put on ice when the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, leading to a widespread reduction in available funding across the tourism industry. Despite these setbacks, the campsite has been meticulously refurbished and is now set to host its grand reopening on Thursday, August 15, 2024.
The renovation focused heavily on sustainability, with the entire site powered by a state-of-the-art solar plant. Additionally, an on-site solid waste management system ensures that all waste is sorted and processed before being sent to recycling depots in Windhoek.
Visitors to Granietkop Campsite will need to bring their camping gear and\ provisions, but they will find a host of well-thought-out amenities at each of the five private campsites. Each site has a shower, wash basin, flush toilet, food prep area, fireplace, and a raised braai for cooking.
Tristan Cowley, Chief Executive Officer at Ultimate Safaris, expressed his excitement about the reopening. “We are really delighted to get this conservancy-owned business back up and running. We hope that before too long, it will be contributing significantly to the
livelihood of the members of the Doro !Nawas Conservancy,” he stated. As the grand reopening approaches, Granietkop Campsite is a testament to the
power of collaboration and the enduring appeal of Namibia’s wild landscapes. Granietkop Campsite offers more than just a place to pitch a tent; it provides easy access to some of Damara land’s most remarkable natural attractions. Guests can explore the nearby Burnt Mountain, marvel at the Organ Pipes rock formations, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Twyfelfontein, known for its ancient rock engravings.