Mesosaurus Fossil

The Mesosaurus fossil sites of southern Namibia preserve the remains of Mesosaurus tenuidens, one of the earliest known aquatic reptiles, dating back about 280 million years (Early Permian). These fossils are among the most important pieces of evidence supporting the theory of continental drift, which links ancient Gondwana continents, such as Africa and South America.

The most accessible Mesosaurus sites are located at Mesosaurus Fossil Camp and Aubures Farm, both situated east of Keetmanshoop along the B4 road toward Naute Dam. Visitors follow guided walks through rocky dolerite ridges and shallow pans where the fossils occur naturally in black shale slabs.

The farms operate small museums and offer on-site accommodation, making the fossils easily accessible for travellers exploring southern Namibia.

Mesosaurus was a small, lizard-like aquatic reptile about 1 metre long, with:

• A long, paddle-like tail
• Narrow jaws filled with needle-like teeth
• Adaptations for swimming and catching small prey

The fossils occur in fine-grained shale that formed in an ancient inland sea, which once covered parts of Namibia and Brazil. Their identical distribution on both continents provided some of the earliest proof that the continents were once joined.

The surrounding dolerite “pancakes” of the Karoo Supergroup create a dramatic landscape where fossils appear in natural cracks between the rock layers.

Highlights of the sites include:

• Well-preserved, fully articulated Mesosaurus skeletons in black shale
• Isolated bones, jaw fragments, and impressions of scales
• Ripple marks and mud cracks preserved in ancient seabed layers
• A unique fossilised forest of dolerite “dikes” and erosion features that frame the site
• Displays showing how Mesosaurus supports the theory of Gondwana

The fossils are naturally preserved in shale slabs that weather to the surface. Although durable, the shale is fragile and can split easily. Visitors must not remove or disturb any fossil material.

The farms manage access carefully and maintain clear paths around the fossil exposures.

Guided tours are available daily at both Mesosaurus Fossil Camp and Aubures Farm, offering detailed explanations of the fossils and geology. The terrain is rocky, but the walks are short and suitable for most visitors.

Sun protection and sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the area is exposed and temperatures can climb quickly in summer.