Duration: 30 September 2023 - 4 October 2023

Themes: REE mineralisation in carbonatites and alkaline silicate rocks

Field Trip Route:      Central Namibia

Field Trip Schedule

Saturday 30 September: Depart Windhoek, drive Eureka, Eureka carbonatite visit, visit mineral sellers, overnight Henties Bay

Sunday 1 October: Depart Henties bay, drive Amis Gorge, and overnight.

Monday 2 Octobe: Drive to Lofdal carbonatite, visit

Tuesday 3 Octobe: Depart, drive to Okorusu carbonatite visit in morning,

Wednesday 4 October:    Game viewing, drive to Windhoek, lunch

Duration: 21-24 September 2023

A four-day, three-night fieldtrip to the Northern Margin Zone of the Damara belt near Khorixas will focus on critical outcrops for reconstructing the Neoproterozoic climate and tectonic history of Namibia. On the first day we will drive from Windhoek to Xaragu (~5.5 hours), where we will camp for the duration of the trip (Camp Xaragu has running water and ablution facilities). We will spend the afternoon after arriving visiting slope sections of the Cryogenian–early Ediacaran stratigraphy around the camp. 

On day two we will drive 30 minutes west to the Vrede domes where we will examine evidence for Tonian rifting, large facies changes in the Tonian through Ediacaran stratigraphy (with both Cryogenian glacial successions) and multiple episodes of deformation associated with the intersection of the Kaoko and Damara belts. 

On day three we will drive an hour and 20 minutes east to Fransfontein where we will see the best evidence for movement of the Marinoan ice-grounding line, discuss the position of dated samples that constrain the nature and duration of the Marinoan Snowball Earth, and potential drivers for movement of the ice-grounding line. 

On the final day we will have an optional morning hike to exposures of the Mulden Group on Austerlitz Farm where we can observe evidence for the earliest tectonic disruption of the margin associated with the Kaoko and Damara belts and discuss existing detrital zircon data and various tectonic models. Groups needing to return to Windhoek will depart by mid-day.

Duration: 20-25 September 2023

The Sperrgebiet is a treasure trove of palaeontological sites.  This trip would visit Palaeogene and Neogene fossil sites (Eocliff in the Klinghardt, Black crow and Eocene Langental; Neogene fossil sites such as Langental, Grillental and Elisabethfeld). The Bogenfels will also be visited.  The Sperrgebiet (Forbidden Zone) of Namibia was declared out-of-bounds by the German Government in 1908 soon after the discovery of diamonds close to Kolmanskop 10 km inland from Lüderitz. The zone, now known as the Tsau-#Khaeb National Park, extends from the Aus-Lüderitz road in the north to the Orange River in the south (ca 200 km), and from the Atlantic coast in the west to the Great Escarpment in the east (ca 70-100 km).

The Basement rocks of the Sperrgebiet comprise Precambrian gneisses, shales, quartzites, dolomites and various intrusive rocks (syenite batholiths, dolerite dykes). The superficial deposits of the Sperrgebiet consist of a variety of sedimentary and volcanic rocks, as well as alteration products related to volcanic activity  and near-surface processes driven by groundwater flowage as well as to processes of near-surface induration of superficial deposits under desert conditions. Close to the coast there are substantial beach deposits which accumulated when sea-level was higher than it is today, and there are analogous deposits offshore, laid down when sea-level was lower than it is today, notably during the Oligocene. 

All the diamonds found in the Sperrgebeit have been obtained from these superficial deposits close to the coast, the onland ores being prevalent in the Salt Namib where the surface deposits are rich in salt and often gypsum, the result of long term transport of sea spray inland for up to 20 km. In the Inner Namib in contrast, the soils and surface deposits generally lack salt. 

Finally, the Southern Namib is known for the extremely mobile dune trains that traverse northwards, predominantly in the Trough Namib and to a lesser extent the Innen Namib, where they eventually contribute their sand to the Namib Sand Sea of the Namib-Naukluft Park. Some of these dunes move up to 300 metres per year.

Duration: 20-25 September 2023

The Pan-African Damara Belt is a geological wonder, where arid climate and dissected topography allow structural analysis at all scales and in the three dimensions. A 6-day/5-night-long traverse will provide an overview of the main tectonostratigraphic zones of the Damara Belt. 

We will visit key outcrops dealing with the stratigraphic evolution of the Neoproterozoic Damara Supergroup, and the magmatic, structural and metamorphic inception, growth and collapse of the orogen. 

We will start in the Southern Margin Zone on the Kalahari Craton, and progressively venture north through the Southern Zone accretionary prism, the Central Zone hot hinterland, to end up in the Northern Zone and Northern Platform on the Congo Craton. 

Observations of spectacular outcrops will spark discussions on various topics related to the paleogeography of the Congo and Kalahari cratons prior to Damara collision, tectonomagmatic and metamorphic evolution of the Damara Belt, and the interpretation of deformation structures at hypersolidus and solid-state conditions. Accommodation will be in chalets in Swakopmund, Karibib, Uis and Khorixas.

Duration: 30 September - 06 October 2023

Trip to examine the Geology and Mineralization of Base Metal Deposits hosted by platform carbonates in Northern Namibia.  The route would take in Tsumeb, Kombat, Berg Aukas, Abendab and exploration projects in the OML.  Drive through Etosha (possibly), then visit Otuani mine in Kuene as well as exploration workings and then Namib Pb-Zn.   A seven-day trip.

Duration:  30 September 2023
In an arid country like Namibia, ensuring a reliable and clean water supply is a constant challenge. This field excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse water resources utilized to meet Windhoek's water needs. Participants will have the opportunity to visit various key water supply facilities, including local groundwater sources, hot springs, storage dams, long-distance pipelines, and recycling systems. By examining these different water sources and the associated infrastructure, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the city's water management practices. 

They will also learn about the innovative strategies employed in Windhoek to conserve water and promote its reuse, including the use of advanced treatment technologies and efficient management techniques. 

This excursion provides valuable insights into the complexities of water provision in arid environments and the measures taken to ensure a sustainable water supply for urban communities in Windhoek
 

Duration: 30 September – 04 October 2023

Several orogenic gold deposits occur in the Neoproterozoic Damara Supergroup. Research conducted on these deposits indicate a late to post tectonic emplacement of this mineralisation during syn- to late-peak metamorphic conditions (Shilunga, 2022 et. al). The mineralisation is structurally controlled with fault and thrust systems acting as conduits for the ascending mineralising fluids. The field trip will take the delegates to the Navachab Gold Mine and the Twin Hills Gold Project located at Karibib as well as to the Otjikoto Gold Mine located to the north of Otjiwarongo. The lithologies, structures, alteration and mineralisation will be explained and shown to the delegates at each of these localities.
 

Day 1: Saturday /30th September 2023

Travel from Windhoek to Otjiwarongo

• Introduction to exploration and core viewing at exploration office

Travel to Otjikoto Training Centre

• Overnight at Otjikoto Training Centre

Day 2: Sunday / 01st October 2023

• Induction and safety
• Introduction to mining and mine visit

Overnight at Otjikoto Training Centre

Day 3: Monday / 02nd October 2023

Travel to Omaruru

• Background on Twin Hills geology and mineral resources
• Inspect core from Twin Hills

Overnight Omaruru

Day 4: Tuesday / 03rd October 2023

• Field visit Twin Hills gold project 
• Inspect mineralisation in the field

Overnight Omaruru

Day 5: Wednesday/ 04th October 2023

Travel to Karibib 

• Visit Navachab Gold Mine
• Induction and safety
• Geological background of mine area
• Mine visit
• Inspect Navachab core

Travel back to Windhoek

Overnight Windhoek

Duration: 25 September 2023

The orebodies at Onganja Mine, located 65km north-east of Windhoek, comprise a large, Neoproterozoic, sheeted vein IOCG complex hosted by Kuiseb Formation quartz-plagioclase-biotite schists. 

Ore mineralogy comprises pyrite-magnetite-chalcopyrite-gold-molybdenite in brecciated quartz veining associated with widespread albite alteration, within the core of a broad, open antiformal fold. The mine, with a 120-year history, is currently being brought back into production. The tour group will be limited to 13 people.

Duration: 30 September – 02 0ctober 2023

A day long wander along the Omingonde River at the base of Etjo Mountain, Erongo/Otjzondupa Regions.  Starting at the Waterberg thrust and continuing through the sediments of the Omingonde Formation, looking at the old depositional sedimentary environments and vertebrate fossils of the Mid Triassica arid-zone, rift valley fill.

Duration: 20 - 23 September 2023

A field excursion to the Naukluft Mountains in Namibia offers a captivating opportunity to explore the region's stunning natural beauty and geological wonders. Located in the central part of the country, the Naukluft Mountains form part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, which is renowned for its diverse landscapes and unique ecosystems. 

The field excursion provides participants with a chance to witness the awe-inspiring rock formations, deep canyons, and rugged mountain peaks that characterize this area. Additionally, the Naukluft Mountains are home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including endemic species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers. The field excursion may also involve studying the geological processes that have shaped the mountains over millions of years, such as erosion and tectonic activity. 

Overall, the Naukluft Mountains offer an enriching experience for geologists, ecologists, and nature lovers alike, providing insights into Namibia's geological history and its remarkable biodiversity.

Duration: 22-25 September 2023

The capacity-building workshop intends to bring together emerging geopark initiatives in Africa and other interested partners:

• To learn the fundamentals of UNESCO Global Geoparks concept: what are they? What makes them special? In what way are they different from other site designations? How are they created?
• To raise awareness of the importance of geological heritage and the need to connect it with natural heritage, as well as cultural tangible and intangible heritage.
• To encourage the governments and the related organizations to protect and conserve their most relevant geoheritage via national programmes and to develop UNESCO Geopark projects in their country.
• To assure that the UNESCO Geopark concept is well understood at governmental and academic level, in order to support community driven growing initiatives and provide a necessary new sustainable economic development to local populations. 
• To identify and discuss the strengths and weaknesses, as well as potential opportunities and threats posed by the current situation in Africa for UNESCO Global Geoparks. What is the potential and challenges for current initiative in Africa and discussions on how to alleviate such challenges? 

Organizers

• UNESCO International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme Secretariat and the UNESCO Windhoek office.
• PanAfGeo-2 Work package WP-D (Geoheritage) delivery team.
• Geological Survey of Namibia.

Target audiences

• National and regional experts (geological surveys, academics, nature conservation experts, protected area managers).
• Promoters or leaders of ideas or projects of UNESCO Global Geoparks in Africa and geopark initiatives in Africa.

UNESCO Global Geoparks workshop concept and organization

The workshop will last 4 days (including 3 days field trips) from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm. 

The workshop will end with a field trip to the proposed Gondwanaland geopark project area. The workshop language will be exclusively in English.

Day 1: Departure from the Geological Survey of Namibia (Windhoek)

• Site visit to Spitzkoppe 
• Small-Scale Miners

Overnight in Uis

Day 2: 

• Site visit to Brandberg – includes the “white lady” rock art.

Departure from Uis to Twyfelfontein /Khorixas area.Overnight in Twyfelfontein/Khorixas area

Day 3:

• Site visit to Twyfelfontein (/Ui-//aes) UNESCO World Heritage Centre – includes rock engravings.
• Site visit to the Organ Pipes. 
• Damara Living Museum.. 

Overnight in Twyfelfontein/Khorixas area

Day 4

• Site visit to the Petrified Forest.

  Depart to Windhoek.

Duration: 30 September -  03 October 2023

Namibia hosts the World largest and longest-operating open pit uranium mine, the Rössing Uranium Mine. Whike Rössing and the neighboring Husab Uranium Mine are hard rock mines with primary leucogranite orebodies, Namibia also has secondary uranium deposits formed in alluvial environments and hosted by calcrete, such as the Langer Heinrich Mine. Participants will be in apposition to view both types, in an active mining environment, and also in an advanced exploration project. In addition, there will be an opportunity to look at the local geology. 

The excursion will be completed with a visit to the Namibian Uranium Institute, where participants can learn about the joint efforts in environmental management and stakeholder engagement undertaken by Namibian uranium companies.

The excursion starts and ends in Windhoek, and participants will overnight at Swakopmund.

Duration: 30 September -  01 October 2023

Hiking and geology in the Gamsberg-Nauchas area of central Namibia 

Day One: Hiking to the Gamsberg Plateau looking at geology of the plateau and surrounding area; spectacular view guaranteed!  The mountain is underlain by Gamsberg granite but the surrounding area is very diverse

Day Two: Examine the Kobos, Klein Aub mine and surrounding area with rocks of Elim and Duruchaus Fms. 

Day Three:  Farm Namibgrens to visit Alberta IC, the Areb Shear Zone, Mooirivier and Gaub Valley rocks.

Duration: 30 September -  02 October 2023

Fieldtrip Objectives:

• Introduction to the Upper Carboniferous - Permian lower Karoo sequence (Dwyka and Ecca Groups) of southern Namibia with emphasis on the glacial – to non-glacial transition and associated petroleum  source rock deposition.
• Observe a sequence of basaltic flows (Kalkrand floodbasalts - Drakensberg Group) interbedded with siliciclastics.
• Give an overview to the Ediacaran – Early Cambrian Nama Basin. Demonstrate the sequence architecture of the Kuibis and Fish River subgroups using excellent exposures in the Zaris mountains and along the banks of the Fish River.

Itinerary

30th September

• Depart from Windhoek to Tsauchab River Camp
• Overnight Tsauchab River Camp (Oerwald private campsite)
• Geology: Lower Nama Group (Kuibis Subgroup; Ediacaran Reefs and Fauna)

1st October

• Drive to Fish River at M98 Bridge 
• Overnight Hardap Resort Camping 
• Geology: Nama Fish River Subgroup, Lower Karoo outcrops along Fish River and Weissrand Escarpment

2nd October

• Geology: Hardap Karoo (Kalkrand Basalts and Sedimentary interlayers; Lower Karoo)
• Drive to Windhoek 

Duration: 22-24 September 2023

The Erongo Region in Namibia has emerged as a significant hub for lithium exploration projects and mining activities. This region is known for its rich lithium deposits, attracting both domestic and international companies seeking to tap into this valuable resource. The geological characteristics of the Erongo Region make it particularly favorable for lithium exploration, with promising prospects for the development of lithium mines. 

The lithium exploration projects and mines excursion provides participants with a comprehensive overview of the geological characteristics, exploration methods, and mining techniques specific to various lithium deposits in the region. It offers valuable insights into the ongoing lithium projects, showcasing their current development stages, production capacity, and the potential economic impacts they can bring to the region. 

This resource is essential for investors, researchers, and industry professionals seeking to gain a deeper understanding of Namibia's lithium potential and the associated opportunities and challenges within this rapidly evolving sector.