Königstein, Mountain summit in Erongo Region, Namibia

Königstein is the highest peak of the Brandberg massif and of Namibia, reaching 2,573 metres. The massif is a pluton exposed by erosion. The climb starts at about 700 metres, roughly two hours from the last settlement, and gains around 1,900 metres of height to the summit.

The Brandberg massif formed during the Early Cretaceous period when geological forces and rifting led to the opening of the South Atlantic. These ancient processes shaped the mountain over millions of years.

The rock art associated with the massif is the White Lady of the Tsisab Gorge, found by Reinhard Maack on 4 January 1918, two days after he made the first ascent of Königstein. The painting sits in a ravine near the peak and is the site's best-known image; visitors reach it on foot through the gorge.

The climb requires a permit that should be obtained before your visit, and hiring an experienced guide is highly recommended. The best time to hike is during cooler months when conditions are more pleasant.

Reinhard Maack made the first ascent on 2 January 1918; two days later, in the Tsisab gorge near the Königstein, he found the rock painting known as the White Lady. The summit lies at 2,573 metres, the highest point in Namibia, and the climb from the 700-metre trailhead covers about 1,900 metres of ascent.