Known for its rust-red sand, grassy plains, and terracotta-painted landscapes, the Kalahari Desert situated on Namibia's east border is a place that holds the heart of the African continent in its hands. Scattered herds of antelope, zebra and the aloof leopard exist among the Camelthorn Trees of this barren homeland. The Kalahari is a destination that provides an insight into wildlife and culture unmatched anywhere else on Earth. From the pink and red seamlessly cloudy waves in the mornings to the draw dropping golden sunsets in the evening, the true lure lies in the Kalahari's solitude and eerie silence.
If you only have time to see one thing in Namibia, make it the soaring sand dunes of Sossusvlei. Few words can describe the towering red dunes spread across the landscape or walking amongst the fossilized Acacia trees in the vast white clay pan of Deadvlei. The ever-changing dunes are the arid lands most iconic feature, and hiking to the tops will allow you to view the Martian-like landscape below. Sossusvlei shows off its beauty by housing many plants and animals that have adapted to life in the dry, yet dreamy terrain. This natural wonder is a perfect example of Namibia's unspoiled desert landscape.
Nestled on the west coast of the Namib Desert - where the dunes meet the ocean - is the popular little town of Swakopmund. This laid-back area offers charm in bucket loads with its colonial architecture, quaint restaurants and historic landmarks - such as the "Mole" sunset pier. The cobbled streets and picturesque buildings indicate the rich heritage and culture this town holds, while the museums show its diverse history. This area radiates personality - from the more relaxed daytime charm to the vibrant atmosphere of the night - this is one of Namibia's hidden gems that need to be experienced.
Twyfelfontein is a site of ancient rock engravings in the semi-arid region of north-western Namibia. This world heritage site is situated 100 kilometres from the ocean, where the scenery shifts from dry red sands to lush grassland. Drawn by the San People, the engravings show depictions of both human and animal tracks. Many of the impressions also depict animals that are no longer found in the area - including lion, zebra, kudu and even seals! Visiting these paintings, with their rich historical and cultural backgrounds, allows you to learn about the Namibian heritage and the San people's customs and beliefs.
Damaraland's breath-taking mountains are home to ample desert-adapted wildlife who live among the harsh, barren conditions. Its rugged and rocky landscapes are known for their rough, captivating beauty. One of the region's finest attractions is the Twyfelfontein rock engravings, containing many ancient etchings that are considered some of the best-preserved illustrations on the continent. Thousands of years old, the regions Petrified Forest is a haunting landscape of giant fossilized trees. This small area of preserved land houses so much historical information of the Namibian country, drawing people in.
Located between the mountains just south of Etosha National Park, Ongava Private Game Reserve is widely regarded as the finest private reserve in the area. Although it used to be barren farmland, it has been rehabilitated into a haven homing large concentrations of wildlife. This reserve is globally recognised for its conservation, groundbreaking research and exciting safari adventures. The main highlight at Ongava is its large population of rhinos, which are considered to be very relaxed around people, allowing for thrilling close encounters. Here, the atmosphere makes for a truly unique and tranquil experience.
Situated on the eastern side of Etosha, bordering Fisher's Pan, Onguma Game Reserve is one of In the eastern parts of the Etosha National Park, bordering Fishers Pan lies the Onguma Private Game Reserve. Protecting more than 34,000 acres of land, this private reserve is home to over thirty species of animals, from kudu, giraffe and oryx, to predators such as lion, cheetah and leopard. The Onguma water hole is also a great place to spot game. Game drives, guided walks, and rhino research drives can be enjoyed within the reserved area, and safaris into Etosha National Park are available to see the abundance of animals. Here you will have the opportunity of experiencing Africa in all her beauty and diversity.
Located on the northeastern tip of Namibia - the rapidly growing town of Rundu is a central administrative and economic hub in the region. Renowned for its goat, millet and cattle farming, the boom of tourism in Rundu results from the town's easy accessibility. In many ways, woodcarving artefacts have become a symbol of the town. Visitors can purchase any number of wooden items, from cutlery and bowls to ornaments and animals. The small town of Rundu, with its flat plains and sandy roads, is a fun-filled stop-over for those travelling between Etosha, Windhoek and the Okavango Delta.
The Okavango River is the fourth-largest river system in southern Africa. Starting in Angola, it runs southeastward into Namibia and forms part of the Angolan/Namibian border. Visitors can soak up the magnificent views of the cascading Popa Falls, a popular tourist attraction, just before the river crosses over into Botswana creating the renowned Okavango Delta. The area surrounding the river is known for its lush vegetation, spectacular natural beauty, and abundant wildlife. It is home to 150 species of fish and supports over 400 species of bird, making it a popular fishing and birding destination. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of adventure opportunities in and around the river, jump on a scenic boat cruise, visit the many reserves which dot the region, and explore the riverside town of Rundu, set on the banks of the Okavango River, it is the rural capital of the Kavango Region.
Rising in the central Angolan highlands and east of the Kunene River is the Kwando River, forming the boundary between Namibia, Angola and Zambia. This river is the lifeblood of this region, and its fresh grasses support large herds of animals, most notably the Burchell's Zebra. Activities in the area include boat cruises, guided bushwalks and game drives. The surrounding land is pristine, largely uninhabited, and its beauty remains relatively undiscovered. Soak up the charm of the river nestled beneath a canopy of shady jackalberry trees, or listen to the sounds of the hippo's grunt as your boat sails past.
Victoria Falls is a magnificent sight of awe-inspiring beauty on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The vast, basalt cliffs over which the falls thunder turn the Zambezi from a placid river into rapids that carve their way through dramatic gorges. The falls have been declared a National Park and World Heritage Site and are also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. At the falls, you'll find activities like swimming, bungee jumping, and zip-lining. Additionally, there are calmer activities, including sunset cruises, walking tours and elephant interactions.
