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Skorpion Zinc Mine
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The Skorpion Zinc mine, located near Rosh Pinah in southern Namibia, is one of the world's largest zinc mines. It is unique as it processes zinc ore directly on-site into Special High Grade (SHG) zinc through a solvent extraction and electrowinning (SX-EW) process. Operations commenced in 2003. The mine is an open-pit operation exploiting a supergene, non-sulphidic zinc ore body. The mine has been a major employer and source of revenue for the ǁKaras Region. However, the open pit is nearing the end of its life. The owner, Vedanta Zinc International, has placed the refinery on care and maintenance while it evaluates plans to develop underground resources and convert the refinery to process sulphidic ores from the nearby Gergarub deposit. This is intended to secure the future of the operation and jobs in the region.
- Location: Namibia
- Nearby: Rosh Pinah (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 18 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 6 | 4 | 9 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 2 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Skorpion Zinc Mine in southern Namibia is a major zinc mine with an integrated refinery. It significantly contributes to Namibia's mining economy and produces zinc ore for processing.
Visiting
The mine itself is not open to the public as it is an active industrial site. From the nearby main road, the waste dumps and facilities are visible.
Where to view it
A good viewpoint is on the road between Rosh Pinah and the border crossing. From there, a wide view opens over the open-pit operation and the surrounding desert landscape.
Local products
The mine produces zinc concentrate, which is sold to processors. There are no direct local products for travelers, but surrounding towns often offer regional handicrafts.
Active season
Mining operations run continuously throughout the year. Maintenance work may cause brief interruptions, but production is generally stable.
Nearby
The mine is located near the Restricted Area and the Fish River Canyon. A combination with a visit to the Canyon National Park and the coastal town of Lüderitz is recommended.
Geography
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Sights in the town Skorpion Zinc Mine (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What is mined at Skorpion?
Zinc is mined here and processed into zinc ingots on-site.
Where is the mine located?
In the south of Namibia, near Rosh Pinah.
Can the mine be visited?
No, it is a strictly secured industrial site.
What is the area known for?
The area around Rosh Pinah is known for its mining industry.
Why is it economically significant?
It is a major player in the SADC region's zinc production.
Skorpion Zinc Mine: where is it located?
Skorpion Zinc Mine is located in Namibia.
Skorpion Zinc Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
Skorpion Zinc Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Skorpion Zinc mine, located near Rosh Pinah in southern Namibia, is one of the world's largest zinc mines.
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An impressive Neo-Gothic Lutheran church perched high on Diamond Mountain in Lüderitz, overlooking the town.
Kapps Hotel Building
One of the oldest surviving buildings in Lüderitz, which once served as an important social gathering place during the first diamond boom.
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