Spring, Geyser sights in Africa
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Hot Springs
Ai-Ais is Nama for 'Scalding Hot' and these springs are beneath the towering peaks at the southern end of Fish River Canyon National Park. Although the 60°C springs have probably been known to the San for thousands of years, the legend goes that they were 'discovered' by a nomadic Nama shepherd rounding up stray sheep. They're rich in chloride, fluoride and sulphur, and are reputedly therapeutic for sufferers of rheumatism or nervous disorders.
The hot water is piped to a series of baths and jacuzzis as well as an outdoor swimming pool. A pleasant diversion is the short scramble to the peak which rises above the opposite bank (note that the trail isn't marked). It…
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Queen of Sheba's Bath
Despite the colourful legends, Queen of Sheba's Bath postdates the legendary queen by at least a millennia. This large reservoir was more likely an important source of water rather than a swimming pool or gargantuan bath. Its size is even more impressive considering it was originally hewn out of solid rock, no small feat in the world of ancient engineering. It's also known as Mai Shum, which translates to 'Water of Chief'.
Sadly, the outer portion of the bowl was coated with concrete in 1960s, bestowing it with the feel of a half-hearted attempt at a modern water reservoir, instead of an impressive ancient relic.
Today, despite locals claiming that the waters are cursed…
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Ain Segam
Just past the village of Mandisha, near the Bahariya-Cairo road, huddles Ain Segam spring. Hidden behind a large pump house on the edge of a lush palm grove, this is a great place to have a dip or bring a picnic and laze in the shade of the swaying palm fronds.
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El-Beshmo
The closest springs to central Bawiti are the so-called Roman springs, known as El-Beshmo. The view over the oasis gardens and the desert beyond is wonderful, but unfortunately the spring is not suitable for swimming.
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