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Quiver Tree Manor, located in Namibia's southern region, is a peaceful retreat with a unique blend of nature and culture. Visitors can explore the nearby Quiver Tree Forest, famous for its ancient and striking quiver trees. Another must-see is the nearby Giant's Playground, known for its massive rock formations. Guests can also enjoy stargazing in this remote location, as the area offers clear skies for exceptional views of the Milky Way and other celestial wonders. For a more relaxing experience, the manor's gardens and peaceful surroundings offer a great place for unwinding.
There are only five International Dark Sky Reserves in the world, and the starry sky against the backdrop of the quiver tree is one of the most beautiful in the world. The quiver tree, actually an aloe barbadensis tree, gets its name from the fact that locals often hollow out its branches to use as quivers. Rainfall is almost non-existent in the southern Namibian Desert in Africa, with less than 60mm of precipitation annually. Yet, incredibly, trees still thrive there: the quiver tree. It stands completely exposed to the sun, nestled amidst the rocks. There's virtually no sign of water nearby. Other plants can only wait for rain. Yet, this tree perseveres!
These trees are up to five meters tall and are around 200 years old. The Quiver Tree Estate, home to around 250 to 300 large trees, is a national heritage site and a famous tourist attraction in Namibia.
Subtropical desert climate, best to travel from June to August
1-2 days
Quiver Tree Manor is located near the Quiver Tree Forest, which is renowned for its collection of quiver trees (Aloe dichotoma). These trees are a striking feature of Namibia's arid desert landscapes and have cultural significance to the indigenous San people, who used the trees’ branches to craft quivers for their arrows. The surrounding landscape is also historically significant for the various ancient rock formations that can be found at the nearby Giant's Playground.
Quiver Tree Manor is located near Keetmanshoop in southern Namibia. The best way to get there is by car, as the manor is situated in a rural area without public transportation options. From Keetmanshoop, it’s about a 20-minute drive. Visitors often rent cars for the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas like the Quiver Tree Forest and Giant's Playground.
Quiver Tree Manor and the surrounding attractions are open year-round. The best time to visit is during Namibia's dry season (May to October), when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Avoid the summer months (November to April) if you prefer milder temperatures, as the region can become very hot.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Quiver Tree Manor, but there are charges for guided tours of the Quiver Tree Forest and the Giant's Playground, typically ranging from 50-100 NAD per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some tours may offer online booking options for advanced reservations.
Booking in advance is not strictly necessary for visiting the manor, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons, especially for guided tours of the Quiver Tree Forest. It’s best to book at least 1-2 days in advance to secure a spot for the tours.
A visit to Quiver Tree Manor and its nearby attractions generally requires 2-3 hours. You can spend an hour exploring the manor's gardens and surroundings, followed by a tour of the Quiver Tree Forest and Giant's Playground.
The key highlights include the Quiver Tree Forest, with its eerie and beautiful quiver trees, and the Giant's Playground, which features impressive rock formations. Additionally, the clear night skies offer spectacular stargazing opportunities.
Guided tours are available for both the Quiver Tree Forest and Giant’s Playground. These tours are typically conducted in English, but other languages can be arranged with prior notice. Audio guides may also be available for some attractions, particularly in more popular seasons.
One of the best photography spots is in the Quiver Tree Forest, where the unique trees make for stunning pictures, especially at sunrise or sunset. The Giant's Playground also provides dramatic rock formations for incredible landscape shots. For stargazing, the open desert skies offer a perfect opportunity to photograph the Milky Way.
A recommended route is to first explore the Quiver Tree Forest and take time to photograph the trees. Then, head to the Giant's Playground for a short hike among the rock formations. If time allows, consider staying for stargazing in the evening, as the skies are particularly clear in this remote area.
Night visits for stargazing are available and are highly recommended for those interested in astronomy. The clear skies of Namibia offer some of the best stargazing in the world. There are no light shows, but the natural beauty of the night sky is a major highlight.
The area is generally not crowded, but the best times to visit for fewer tourists are during weekdays and outside of holiday seasons. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter as well.
Quiver Tree Manor has basic facilities, including restrooms and a small shop selling souvenirs and snacks. There are no extensive restaurants on-site, but some local food options can be found nearby. It’s advisable to bring your own water, especially for outdoor activities in the surrounding areas.
The Quiver Tree Manor and the surrounding areas are relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some hiking in the Giant's Playground may be more challenging. The manor itself is accessible, and the paths around the Quiver Tree Forest are fairly easy to navigate.
Cash is the preferred payment method in the area, particularly in rural locations. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s advisable to carry Namibian dollars (NAD) in cash for most purchases. Mobile payments are not commonly used.
There are limited dining options nearby, with a few local restaurants serving Namibian cuisine. In the town of Keetmanshoop, you can find some additional options for meals and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in some local restaurants, though vegan and halal food options may be more limited, especially in rural areas. It’s best to confirm dietary preferences with the restaurant in advance.
Quiver Tree Manor offers its own accommodations, including comfortable guest rooms and an intimate atmosphere. Other nearby accommodations include small guesthouses and lodges in Keetmanshoop.
Nearby attractions include the Fish River Canyon, which is about a 2-hour drive away and offers stunning views and hiking opportunities. Another option is visiting the Köhler Mountains for hiking and birdwatching.
There is a small souvenir shop at Quiver Tree Manor selling local handicrafts, including Namibian art, wooden carvings, and quiver tree-themed souvenirs. You can also find typical African crafts and items representing the country’s culture.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting Quiver Tree Manor is by car. You can drive to nearby attractions like the Fish River Canyon, or head to Keetmanshoop for further travel connections. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is ideal.
