The Waterberg Plateau east of Otjiwarongo towers over the surrounding plains, being about 200 metres higher. The 20 kilometre wide and 50 kilometre long table mountain massif consists of porous sandstone. Rainwater trickles through the permeable stone and collects on top of an impervious clay layer at the bottom.
Whilst the plateau is arid on top, there is a lot of surface water and strong permanent springs at the foot of the mountain. The vegetation is, consequently, quite lush, green and diverse. Wild fig trees, fire lillies and coral trees grow here. The area is also rich in fauna.