Mirabib Rock | Walvis Bay

Mirabib Rock is a massive granite inselberg rising from the central gravel plains of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. It is located approximately 100km east of Walvis Bay and serves as a major geological and archaeological landmark.

Visual Characteristics

The formation is a sprawling, multi-domed granite outcrop characterized by deep orange and tan oxidation. It features large natural amphitheatres, deep rock shelters, and tafoni weathering (honeycomb patterns). The surrounding terrain is an extremely flat, hyper-arid plain, making the rock visible from several kilometers away.

Location & Access Logistics

Access is via the C14 highway, followed by a turn onto the D1983 gravel road. Reaching the rock requires a high-clearance vehicle due to the corrugated and occasionally sandy tracks leading off the main route. A Namib-Naukluft National Park permit is required for entry. No public transport serves this remote area.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Mirabib is an archaeological site of significant importance. Excavations have revealed human occupation layers dating back over 8,000 years, including evidence of early pastoralism and hunter-gatherer societies. Geologically, it is a plutonic intrusion exposed by erosion. It acts as a focal point for desert biodiversity, providing shade and nesting sites for lappet-faced vultures and various raptors.

Key Highlights & Activities

Rock Art Observation: Small panels of San (Bushman) rock paintings are located within the sheltered overhangs.

Archaeological Exploration: Viewing the excavated rock shelters used by prehistoric inhabitants.

Photography: The rock's "Moon Landscape" surroundings and the contrast of the granite against the desert sky.

Camping: Mirabib is a designated wild campsite, offering isolated overnight stays under the rock overhangs.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Infrastructure is minimal to preserve the wilderness character. Amenities are limited to a few designated stone-circle campsites and basic pit latrines. There is no running water, electricity, or cellular signal. Visitors must be entirely self-sufficient with fuel, food, and water.

Best Time to Visit

The winter months (May to August) are optimal for exploring the rock on foot to avoid the extreme heat of the gravel plains. Sunrise and sunset are the most visually dramatic times, as the granite takes on a deep glowing red hue. Clear nights provide exceptional stargazing opportunities due to the lack of light pollution.

Facts & Legends

Mirabib was famously used as a filming location for the "Dawn of Man" sequence in Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey (specifically for background plates). Researchers have used the deep dust deposits in the Mirabib shelters to reconstruct the paleoclimatic history of the Namib Desert over several millennia.

Nearby Landmarks

Gobabeb Research Station – 40km Southwest

Vogelfederberg – 45km Northwest

Kuiseb River Bed – 30km South

Homeb – 42km Southeast