The Brandberg massif is a mountain island in the middle of nowhere in the Namibian Outback. It sports the highest mountain of the country - the Königsstein. You may notice that the names have their origins from the German colonial times ("Königsstein" = Kingstone). At 2573m the Königsstein isn't exactly among the mightiest of the continent but unlike on the "classics" you will be pretty much alone here.

Besides the desert vistas the trek will you reward with bizarre mountain plants and ancient rock art. During sunset and sunrise you can experience what the "Brandberg" name (Fire Mountain) is all about when then sandstone glows in unbelievable red tones. The trail is quite strenuous due to a quite steep ascent combined with the hot climate conditions. It does not require technical climbing but you should be able to scale steep rock plates. Usually a good hiker should not have any difficulties. Typical for the region it is not really necessary to carry a tend so just take a light sleeping back, food supplies and naturally water. The water situation on the mountain can be tricky so it is generally a good idea to hire a mountain guide. The navigation in this rocky terrain can also be quite difficult and you will have a hard time to find the places of ancient rock art just by yourself.

The mountain range is located near the border to South Africa about 350km north-west of Windhok and fairly accessible with a good infrastructure in Uis, the closest town. Usually you will prefer to hike this trek in 3 days though you could do it in two if you're a tough dog.