Lake Otjikoto
Oshikoto
Lake Otjikoto is one of only two permanent natural lakes in Namibia, formed by the collapse of a karst cave resulting in a deep sinkhole. Located 20 kilometers northwest of Tsumeb and near the main B1 road, it measures about 102 meters in diameter and reaches depths exceeding 90 meters, with some estimates suggesting over 140 meters due to its tapering into lateral cave systems. The lake holds significant cultural importance, known as Gaisis ('ugly') by the San people and Otjikoto ('deep hole') by the Herero, whose name also inspired the Oshikoto Region. Historically, it served as a German Schutztruppe dumping site during World War I, where weapons and ammunition were sunk to prevent their capture; some artifacts remain underwater and can be explored with special permits. The lake is also notable for botanical discoveries by Kurt Dinter in 1911 and the introduction of the cichlid fish species Tilapia guinasana. Despite local legends, the rumored connection between Lake Otjikoto and Lake Guinas via underground caves remains unproven.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Lake Otjikoto is during the dry season when access is easier and water clarity is better for viewing. Visitors interested in diving to see submerged World War I relics should seek special permits from local authorities. It is advisable to arrange guided tours for safety and to gain deeper historical insights. Purchasing tickets or permits in advance is recommended, especially for diving activities. Visitors should also prepare for limited facilities near the lake and plan accordingly.
Faits intéressants
- •Lake Otjikoto is one of only two permanent natural lakes in Namibia.
- •The lake's depth is challenging to measure due to its connection to lateral cave systems, with estimates exceeding 140 meters.
- •During World War I, German troops dumped weapons and ammunition into the lake to prevent their capture.
- •Some World War I relics, including cannons, remain submerged and can be viewed with special diving permits.
- •The lake was known as Gaisis ('ugly') by the San people and Otjikoto ('deep hole') by the Herero.
- •Botanist Kurt Dinter discovered new plant species near the lake in 1911.
- •Tilapia guinasana, a cichlid fish species, was introduced to the lake, originally native only to Lake Guinas.
Histoire
Lake Otjikoto was first documented by European explorers Francis Galton and Carl Johan Andersson in 1851 during their search for Lake Ngami.
The lake's formation is attributed to the collapse of a karst cave, creating a deep sinkhole.
During World War I, German troops used the lake to dispose of weapons and ammunition to prevent their capture by advancing South African and British forces.
In 1972, the lake was declared a national monument, recognizing its natural and historical significance.
Guide du lieu
The Sinkhole Formation
The lake itself is a massive sinkhole formed by the collapse of a karst cave, creating a unique natural feature with steep underwater walls and deep lateral caves.
World War I Relics1915
Various weapons and ammunition were dumped into the lake by German Schutztruppe during World War I to prevent their capture. Some cannons and ammunition remain underwater and are accessible to divers with special permits.
Flora and Fauna Around the Lake1911
The area around Lake Otjikoto inspired botanist Kurt Dinter to discover new plant species in 1911. Additionally, the lake hosts Tilapia guinasana, a cichlid fish species introduced from Lake Guinas.
