This valley touches visitors
deeply! It evokes
a sense of peace and hope; its fairy circles speak of magic.
Not long after Namibia's Independence, Koos Verwey was drawn
back to the valley and decided to start a new life there. Only
two roads lead into the valley.
Undoubtedly the most famous access
route is the one down the Van Zyl's Pass.
Although respected
and even feared, people develop a strong desire to experience
it. Dreaming about it in advance, sweating and swearing while
negotiating it, visitors are rewarded by
stunningly beautiful views into the valley. With a distinct sense of achievement but
also a humble feeling of gratitude, they place their memory stone
on the pyramids at the bottom of the Pass.
The alternative route
is the one via Red Drum. Travelling down the valley on a sandy
track towards the Kunene River, the quietness
and magnitude is gripping. Two magnificent
mountain ranges stretch along the valley,
the Hartmann Mountains to the West and the Otjihipa
Mountains to the East. Very little is known about the history of the valley
but one can sense that this is ancient area.
The valley does
not boast a big variety of game. However, depending on grass
and season, one might encounter a herd of
over 1000 springbok or a group of 200 Oryx antelopes - a truly impressive sight.
Continuing down the valley, one suddenly catches the first glimpse
of the mighty Kunene; sunlight causing diamond-like sparkles
on the water of the river that gives life to this arid area.
The Marienfluss, with its abundance of space, peace
and tranquility is beyond any doubt one of the most
magnificent valleys in Namibia.
The river massages one's body and soul; there is time to relax
and an opportunity to reflect while going for a walk or simply
enjoying the environment.
It is advisable to plan for two or
three nights at the river. A stay at Camp
Syncro will certainly
enhance the Marienfluss experience.