Climate
Like all of Namibia, it is very hot in the summer with temperatures possible of 40C.
Flora and fauna
The vegetation of the plateau is green subtropical dry woodland. This contrasts the acacia that grows at the base of the plateau. Typically, the north slope of the rocky formations have colorful lichen growing on them in contrast to the reddish color normally found.
There are approximately 200 species of birds located within the confines of the park. It is currently home to the only breeding colony of Cape vultures in Namibia. It is also the breeding ground of several rare game species including rhinoceros, buffalo, and sable and roan antelope.
Landscape
The term "Waterberg" refers to the fact that sandstone of the plateau absorbs moisture which runs off on the southeast side of the plateau as springs. Hence, the name "Waterberg" or water mountain.
History
The park was originally set aside as a sanctuary for rare and endangered species. A variety of antelopes were relocated from other regions of Northern Namibia. In 1989, black rhinoceros was reintroduced to the area from Damaraland.
Waterberg was also the site of one of the major turning points Namibian history. At the foothills of Waterberg, the Herero people lost their last battle against the German colonial forces at the beginning of the century. The Herero were driven across the Kalahari desert into Botswana, then a British protectorate.