Located just 22 kilometres northwest of Mariental, Hardap Dam, which is fed by the Fish River, covers a sprawling 25 square kilometres. While it serves as a vital source of electricity and water for the region, it is also a sanctuary for certain wildlife species, drawing many nature enthusiasts to make a stop here while in the south of Namibia.

Travelling southwards through Namibia from the capital Windhoek, we broke up the long road with a stopover at Hardap Dam. Staying in one of their five well-appointed VIP bungalows, we enjoyed the lovely features such as balconies for watching the sun set and cosy braai nooks with ample seating to enjoy a quintessential Namibian moment around the fire.

With the sun hanging low on the horizon, we set out to explore the area on foot. The low conical hills and the striking sapphire waters create a beautiful contrast, offering a refreshing escape from the arid landscape that surrounds this area.

Hardap Dam is renowned as an angler’s paradise, offering exceptional fishing year-round. However, what surprised me most was the story of the pelicans here. This is the home of one of Namibia’s most significant breeding colonies of great white pelicans (Pelecanus onocrotalus).

Great white pelicans are highly social and spend their time in large flocks. They are well suited for life on the water, with webbed feet and strong legs that help them swim and take off from the water. In the air, they look graceful, alternating slow wingbeats with gliding. You will often spot them flying in stunning formations, while they can travel long distances at a time.

When it comes to food, these pelicans mainly feast on fish, using their huge bills to scoop them up from the surface instead of diving. Hardap Dam makes for a perfect breeding ground, with colonies setting up their breeding base on the small islands you find throughout the dam.