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Otjikoto Lake

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Lake
—°1
Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)

Weather…

Otjikoto Lake is a fascinating sinkhole lake located in northern Namibia, about 20 kilometers northwest of Tsumeb. Formed by the collapse of a massive underground dolomite cave, the lake is nearly circular in shape with a diameter of approximately 100 meters. It is famous for its mysterious depth, which ranges from 62 to over 100 meters, leading into complex underwater cavern systems. Historically, the lake gained prominence in 1915 during World War I, when German colonial forces dumped artillery and ammunition into its depths to prevent them from falling into the hands of South African troops. Some of these historical relics were later salvaged and are now displayed at the Tsumeb Museum. Ecologically, the lake is home to the endangered Otjikoto Tilapia, a fish species found only here and in the nearby Guinas Lake. The clear, deep blue waters and steep limestone walls give the site a mystical and serene atmosphere.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262625242118172125282827
Rain mm124109782720002165781

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Access to this deep karst lake is typically via the nearby main road, which allows for straightforward travel. It is usually just a short walk from the entrance area to the viewpoints.
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Best season
The most pleasant visiting times are usually during the cooler dry season, as summer heat in this region can be very intense. Clear days naturally provide the best views of the deep water.
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Terrain & paths
The terrain around the lake is mostly flat and accessible, however, the banks typically drop steeply and abruptly into the depths at the edges. Surefootedness near the rim is highly important.
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What to bring
It is highly recommended to bring plenty of drinking water, sun protection, and a good camera to capture the striking water color. Sturdy footwear is advisable for the rocky pathways.
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Parking
Parking facilities are generally found in a designated area in the immediate vicinity of the attraction. This is usually well signposted and visible from the main transit road.
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Safety
For safety reasons, visitors should maintain a reasonable distance from the steep banks, as the ground can be slippery. Swimming here is inherently risky due to the unpredictable depth.
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Time needed
A typical stopover at this location usually takes between thirty minutes and an hour, which is sufficient time to thoroughly view the natural phenomenon and take some memorable photographs.

Geography

Coordinates
-19.20000, 17.50000

Facts

  • The lake's diameter is only about 100 meters.
  • The maximum depth is estimated to be over 100 meters.
  • German forces dumped cannons and ammunition here in 1915.
  • The name 'Otjikoto' means 'deep place' in the Herero language.
  • The Otjikoto Tilapia (Tilapia guinasana) is native to this lake.
  • The lake is connected to a vast underground aquifer system.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tschudi Copper MineTschudi Copper Mine8 km · SEExplore →
Guinas LakeGuinas Lake22 km · SExplore →
Tsumeb Copper SmelterTsumeb Copper Smelter23 km · NExplore →
TsumebTsumeb24 km · NExplore →
Otjikoto Gold MineOtjikoto Gold Mine29 km · SEExplore →
Otavi MountainsOtavi Mountains32 km · WExplore →
OtaviOtavi50 km · WExplore →
Ohorongo Cement PlantOhorongo Cement Plant50 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Otjikoto Lake (1)

Lake Oshikoto📍 landmark

This remarkably deep, circular sinkhole lake is renowned for its steep limestone walls and as the site where retreating German troops dumped artillery during World War I.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you dive in Lake Otjikoto?
Diving is permitted only for experienced professionals with special permission.
Why is the lake historically significant?
The German Schutztruppe dumped many weapons here at the end of World War I.
Is the lake safe for children?
Only under strict supervision; the steep walls are very deep and dangerous.
Are there entry fees?
Yes, a small fee is charged for the maintenance of the area.
Is the water crystal clear?
Yes, it is a karst lake with very clear, deep blue water.
Otjikoto Lake: where is it located?
Otjikoto Lake is located in Namibia.
Otjikoto Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.
Otjikoto Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Otjikoto Lake is a fascinating sinkhole lake located in northern Namibia, about 20 kilometers northwest of Tsumeb.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Tsumeb — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Tsumeb
Known as Namibia's most important historic mining town, famous for its rare minerals.
Outapi — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Outapi
The vibrant capital of the Omusati Region, deeply connected to the northern agricultural plains.
Okahao — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Okahao
A proud settlement known as the heart of the Ongandjera kingdom and the birthplace of Namibia's founding president.
Ruacana — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Ruacana
A settlement situated near a major hydroelectric plant and majestic waterfalls on the Kunene River.
Oshikuku — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Oshikuku
A rapidly developing northern town, distinguished by its prominent Catholic hospital and educational facilities.
Tsandi — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Tsandi
A deeply traditional village that houses the grand royal homestead of the Uukwaluudhi King.
Epupa Falls — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Epupa Falls
A paradise on the border with Angola, where the Kunene River plunges through a series of waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation.

Nature

Guinas Lake — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Guinas Lake
Another well-known karst lake.
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Etosha Pan
A vast salt pan in Etosha National Park.

More places

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Tschudi Copper Mine
A copper mine near Tsumeb producing pure copper cathodes.
Tsumeb Copper Smelter — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Tsumeb Copper Smelter
A highly specialized smelter processing complex copper concentrates from domestic and international sources.
Tsumeb Farm Region — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Tsumeb Farm Region
Fertile region for livestock farming and agriculture.
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Otjiwarongo Cattle Region
Center for cattle farming and agricultural research.
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Outjo Farming Area
Important region for livestock trade and farming.
Ombalantu Baobab Tree — Otjikoto Lake (Namibia)
Ombalantu Baobab Tree
An ancient baobab tree with a hollow trunk that was used in the past as a post office, a chapel, and a refuge during wars.