In
times of inclement weather, some shelter in a run-down building can be
found at the Causeway (27.829�S 17.571�E) but otherwise sleeping is
outdoors.
The weather is usually mild and typical temperatures vary
between 5�C and 30�C with little humidity. Extreme weather, such as
flash floods, stormy winds and rain occasionally play havoc during the
hiking season.
Permits
Due to flooding and extremely hot
summer temperatures reaching 48�C in the day and 30�C at night, permits
are only issued between 1 May and 15 September.
Prior to arriving at
Hobas a hiking permit must be obtained from Namibia Wildlife Resorts
for groups not smaller than 3 and not larger than 30. All hikers must be
older than 12 years and a certificate of fitness, completed by a
medical doctor must be presented at the offices of the Ministry of
Environment and Tourism at Hobas.
In recent years the trail has
become popular, particularly during School holidays and long weekends,
and permits should be obtained timeously. Bookings for the following
year's season open 1 May.
Trailhead camping grounds
Hobas
(27.619�S 17.715�E) houses the Ministry of Environment and Tourism
offices as well as Namibia Wildlife Resorts offices and a little shop
for curiosities and basic necessities. Camping underneath Camelthorn
trees with ablution blocks is available for hikers who plan to overnight
at Hobas.
The trail ends at Ai Ais where a resort with hotel rooms, chalets and camping grounds can be found.
A
shuttle service runs approximately every three hours between Ai Ais and
Hobas. It should be booked in advance through the offices of Namibia
Wildlife Resorts at Ai Ais.
The trail starts from the car park
(27.577�S 17.609�E) 13 kilometres west from Hobas. The descent is steep
and chains are provided to assist hikers over the first 100 meters.
Thereafter the unmarked path
