There is something mesmerizingly thrilling about exploring Namibia. Wind-swept desert dunes, polished white plains and abundant wildlife create an alluring atmosphere throughout the land. Namibia boasts remarkable natural attractions such as the Namib Desert, the Skeleton Coast and the Fish River Canyon. The wildlife offerings are second to none, and the country holds an average of 300 sunny days per year, making it an ideal destination all year round. Its diverse landscapes offer reliable game viewings regardless of the season and is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences. The country inhabits more than 20 species of antelope, along with the famous Big 5 and many other magnificent creatures - some found nowhere else in the world. The country is often referred to as "one big desert" and described as a place where nature governs the land. With Namibia being one of the least populated nation on earth, it really is one of the best spots to spend a social distancing holiday.
The capital Windhoek (translated as “windy corner”) is the political, cultural, industrial and economic center of Namibia with 400,000 inhabitants. Windhoek was founded on October 18, 1890, when the foundation stone for what is now known as the “Alte Feste” fortress was laid. Other popular sites include the Tintenpalast, the Christuskirche, the Kaisergymnasium and the Heinitz und Sanderburg. The quiet and well-organized city with a colonial German touch, offers German restaurants and shops, a widespread use of the German language, the celebration of German customs (such as Carnival or Oktoberfest) - the German tradition is reflected everywhere. Even the beer is still brewed according to the German "Reinheitsgebot" (special purity law). Mixed with African traditions and roots, Windhoek offers a unique atmosphere and a relaxed lifestyle that makes the city so endearing.
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.
Swakopmund, known simply as ‘Swakop’ to Namibians, is the capital of the Erongo Region. It was founded in 1892 and was regarded at the time as Germany’s main port in South-West Africa. The townscape of this small town is characterised by numerous historic buildings from the German colonial era: wide streets, German street names, German pubs, cafés and bakeries. During the colonial era, ‘Swakop’ was described as ‘Germany’s southernmost coastal town’. Even today, German is still spoken everywhere. Swakop offers many tourist attractions, such as charming pubs, a beautiful seafront promenade, an aquarium and much more. You can go on lovely day trips to the surrounding area, such as south to Walvis Bay or north to Cape Cross to visit the largest seal colony on the African mainland. In and around Swakop, there are plenty of activities on offer, such as boat trips to see seals, exciting desert tours, quad bike safaris, kayaking trips and helicopter flights. You’ll be spoilt for choice.
Very few natural landscapes match up to the spectacular views of Spitzkoppe. The peaks stand out dramatically against the flat, desolate scenery below, making it one of Namibia's must-see attractions. Here, the famous Rock Arch can be found - a photographer's dream. Climbing the Spitzkoppe is no easy task. However, if conquered, the views from above are unlike any other! Spend sunrise and sunset sitting tranquilly in nature's beauty, watching the rocks' colours change from bright reds to light yellows, granting endless opportunities to relish in the contrasting light and shadowy patterns of the cliffs.
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.
Featuring breath-taking panoramas, unforgettable sunsets, and abundant wildlife, Etosha National Park is Namibia's premier wilderness conservation area. The Etosha Pan - a shallow salt pan covering an area of 5.000 Square kilometres lies in the heart of the park. Natural springs are found in this dry terrain, making for excellent game viewing. Throughout the Park, the landscape is generally flat, with various habitats ranging from mopane woodland to wide, open, virtually treeless plains. Etosha is home to one of the world's most stable black rhino populations, along with lion, elephant, leopard, cheetah, and hyena.
Etosha's southernmost section is known for its rich population of both white and black rhino. Etosha South is home to the Okaukuejo Rest Camp, which is famous for its floodlit waterhole. The many viewpoints overlook picturesque bush-scapes and abundant wildlife. Getting into the South is accessible by Andersson's Gate. Here, visitors can expect to see many animals, including lion and the rare, black-faced impala. However, the most notable of animals found here are elephants. Enjoy guided nature walks, game drives, or simply watching the sunset from this breath-taking location.
With a backdrop of rolling hills and grassy plains – Okonjima Nature Reserve is best known for its diverse animal species - such as cheetahs, lions, hyenas and leopards. Boasting mixed woodland and thornveld plains, the land is home to Africa's most extensive wild cat population. Established in 1991, the AfriCat Foundation is a non-profit organisation committed to the long-term conservation and education of Namibia's large carnivores - and even allows you to track the cheetah on foot! Okonjima, with its rugged bushveld and mountainous outcrops, is a truly unique Southern Africa experience.
