After a quick lunch at the downtown area, we continued south to Naute Dam, just outside of Keetmanshoop. Built between 1970 and 1972, it is the third largest dam in Namibia and is predominantly used for irrigation, although it also supplies potable water to Keetmanshoop and the surrounding farms. The dam's source is the Löwen River, a tributary of the Fish River.
Not far away is a recreation resort popular for boating, water sports, and fishing. A few people also set up camping grounds around the dam and some go there for bird-watching. The resort also contains a farm planted with date palms, pomegranates, prickly pear cactus, and table grapes. Apparently, the fruits were originally grown for export, but not all of them could be sold. The excess goes to a winemaker in Omoruru who opened a distillery near the dam that turns these fruits into fine spirits made under the Naute Kristall label. He also cultivated a vineyard in the area to make white wine. Our guide said that his wines and spirits have already garnered several awards. Imagine that!
It is interesting to see this vast expanse of water in the middle of the desert surrounded by flora and fauna. I guess one can call it an oasis, judging from the lush vegetation and the presence of wild animals and birds around it. It’s amazing what water can do!
We wandered around the area for a bit and took pictures at the lookout over the wall. There was not much to do there, so after a brief stop, we just drove down the causeway below, which provided a spectacular view, then headed to our next destination.
Photo Credit:
nautekristall.com
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