Arco Lagoon

Arco is a lagoon fed by underground water in the middle of otherwise dry country east of Namibe, with reeds and palms along it and eroded sandstone cliffs behind, one of which has weathered into a natural arch that gives the place its name. Birds concentrate on the water because there is nothing else for a long way. The rock is banded orange and cream and the contrast with the green strip of the lagoon is the reason photographers stop here.

What you actually see

• The arch - a natural sandstone span in the cliff above the water.
• The lagoon - permanent fresh water fed from underground in dry country.
• The banded rock - orange and cream sandstone cliffs behind the water.
• The birds - concentrations drawn to the only water for a long distance.

When to go

May to September is the coolest and most comfortable. Morning and late afternoon give the best light on the rock. Midday in summer is severely hot with no shade.

Honest expectations

The track in is rough and a four-wheel drive is sensible. There are no facilities of any kind. The lagoon is smaller than photographs suggest and the visit is an hour.

Nearby

Namibe is west on the coast, and the road continues east to Lubango.