Solitaire

Solitaire is a quirky and isolated desert outpost on the edge of the Namib-Naukluft National Park that has gained cult status. It is globally renowned for Moose McGregor's Desert Bakery, which serves what many claim to be the best apple pie in the Southern Hemisphere. This tiny settlement consists of little more than a fuel station, a café, and a few buildings, standing as a lonely beacon in the vast desert. The site is characterized by an array of weathered and rusted vintage car wrecks scattered across the sandy grounds, providing an excellent foreground for desert photography. Ground squirrels and sociable weavers are common residents of this dusty oasis. Solitaire embodies the spirit of the open road, offering a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere for those traversing the long stretches of Namibia's hinterland. Strategically located at the junction of the C14 and C19 roads, it is a vital stop for fuel between Sesriem, Windhoek, and Walvis Bay. A visit is worthwhile year-round, as it provides a much-needed break from driving. No trip through central Namibia is complete without tasting the legendary pie and exploring the collection of desert-worn vehicles.

Nearby cities

Rehoboth

A historical town south of Windhoek, serving as the traditional home of the Baster community.

Mariental

The commercial hub of the Hardap Region, heavily focused on sheep and ostrich farming.

Aranos

A peaceful desert settlement built along the dry Nossob River, thriving on underground water.

Gibeon

A historic village famed globally for a massive prehistoric shower of iron meteorites.

Maltahöhe

A small desert outpost primarily serving as a key stopover for tourists heading towards Sossusvlei.

Stampriet

An oasis town recognized for its artesian springs that support surprising green agriculture in the desert.

Naukluft

A spectacular mountain range within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, known for deep gorges and rare mountain zebras.

History & landmarks

Kalkrand

A small transport hub in the Hardap region, known as the gateway to the red dunes of the Kalahari Desert.

Sesriem

The gateway to the Sossusvlei dunes and home to a deep limestone canyon.

NamibRand Nature Reserve

One of Africa's largest private nature reserves, famous for its red dunes and exceptional dark skies.

Sossusvlei

A stunning salt and clay pan surrounded by high red dunes in the Namib Desert.

Duwisib Castle

An impressive medieval-style fortress in the middle of the Namibian desert, built by the German Baron von Wolf.

Nature

More places

Naukluft Mountains

A mountain plateau with many springs.

Sesriem Canyon Adventure

A kid-friendly place to explore rock layers.

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Hardap Dam Region

An important agricultural irrigation area in central Namibia.

Mariental Agricultural Hub

Center for irrigation farming and livestock industry.

Kalahari Desert Reserve

A part of the Kalahari basin with specialized animal species.

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Duwisib Castle

A seemingly German medieval castle in the middle of the Namibian semi-desert, built by Baron von Wolf.