Phillips Cave

Phillipp’s Cave is named after E. Phillipp, a former owner of Farm Ameib, which is signposted from the main road on the Swakopmund side of Usakos. The cave was designated a National Monument on February 1, 1951. It contains a number of rock paintings, the most notable being a large white elephant. Among the artefacts uncovered from a test trench were several stone tools. The archaeological work was carried out by H. Pager as part of an extensive year-long survey of the upper Brandberg in 1989 and again in 1992. These excavations helped establish a broader picture of hunter-gatherer occupation in the Erongo and Brandberg region.

The cave measures approximately 15 meters deep, 35 meters wide, and 7 meters high. There are several large paintings, mainly of giraffes and rhinos. The white elephant panel remains the most iconic image, noted for its unusual monochrome style. Finger traces of the original artists who applied the paint are still visible. Other images include kudu, six human handprints and larger depictions of human figures. Additional illustrations portray women, an elephant, an ostrich, male hunters, a giraffe, a springbok and a rhinoceros. Some paintings show signs of superimposition, indicating repeated visits by different groups over time.

Access to the cave is via Ameib Guestfarm in the Erongo Mountains. A day-visitor fee is required for non-overnight guests. From the parking area, the trail to the cave takes approximately 45–60 minutes uphill (the return is easier). Visit early in the morning, carry sufficient water, and wear good walking shoes.