Namib biogeography in many instances remains reliant on advanced and detailed systematic studies. This study attempts to combine molecular phylogenetic data, geology and palaeo-climatic data to (i) resolve the relationships of the 13 morphological species of Scarabaeus (Pachysoma) and (ii) relate their evolution to past climatic and geological events. Keywords: Aptery, biogeography, Coleoptera, cytochrome oxidase I, endemic, mitochondrial DNA, Namib Desert, phylogeny, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeus (Pachysoma).