Against the majestic Table Mountain backdrop, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Cape Town is home to grand hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. It has long been a popular destination for film and modelling shoots. With rich historical and cultural heritage, tours through the township and trips to Robben Island allow guests to learn about the history. Cooking classes and wine and gin tastings are only the start of this captivating city. Narrow, cobblestone streets and the Islamic ambience of the Bo-Kaap enhance the atmosphere. Guided hikes and aquariums show off the wildlife of Cape Town, leaving guests wanting more.
The stunning wilderness area of Cederberg is noted for its rugged mountain range that stretches from Citrusdal to Clanwilliam - approximately 2-3 hours from Cape Town. The region's dramatic rock formations can be enjoyed by walking in the mountains, surfing the waves, or swimming in the clear mountain rock pools. Being part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, the area has an enormous variety of plants. It is also home to the famous rooibos tea plant, cultivated only within this region of Southern Africa. The blend of natural elements and freedom create a unique wilderness experience that will leave you wanting more.
Namaqualand is a dry, hot and uninviting semi-desert that covers the northern part of Western and the Northern Cape up to the border with Namibia. Its natural boundaries lie to the south of the Olifants River, to the west of the Atlantic, to the east communities such as Pofadder or Clavinia in the Great Karoo and to the north the spectacular Orange River. Namakwa (Namaqualand) is considered part of the Succulent Karoo and, with its biodiversity and has the richest succulent flora on earth. During flower season months of July to September, this fast-paced area is transformed into an exquisite floral display. Every year thousands of visitors travel to the semi-desert to see the desert come to life and the dry gray scrub of the Karoo suddenly burst with color. For visitors, the transformation into wildflowers along the Flower Route from Springbok Goegap Nature Reserve to Kamieskroon Skilpad Wild Flower Reserve is a must-see phenomenon.
As previously described
Southern Namibia is home to the second-largest canyon globally and is one of Namibia's most remarkable geological wonders - Fish River Canyon. Plunging ravines and looming rock faces dominate the landscape, with natural hot springs dotted throughout the area. Dramatic sunrises cast heavy shadows while light plays on the rocks; various breath-taking views unfold one after another throughout the day. Yet, gazing at the starry night sky after dark is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after experiences. With the ever-changing crevasses and the raw magnitude of nature’s creation, this canyon is not to be forgotten.
Isolated on private land at the edge of the Namib Desert, the tiny village of Helmeringhausen was founded during the German colonial era. The entire land of Helmeringhausen is privately owned. Here, one can enjoy an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity that only the wilderness can provide. Besides a small airport, the town has a country hotel and a private agricultural museum. The town serves as an idyllic and convenient base for exploring the breath-taking Fish River Canyon, the largest in Africa, with its technicolour scenes and refreshing turquoise pool; nearby Luderitz, with its mysterious ghost town and stunning coast; the astonishing landscapes of Sossusvlei; and the enthralling Naukluft National Park.
The Naukluft Mountains are perched in the centre of Namibia, making a striking silhouette against the vast, open skies. Several private farms occupy the range's northern reaches, while the spectacular Namib-Naukluft National Park lies south. The rugged landscape of Central Namibia rises steeply from the plains and has a fascinating history, interesting geology and a variety of deep gorges. An array of wildlife can be found in the area, including over 50 species of mammals, such as leopards and zebras, and more than 200 species of birds. Here, the air is crystal clear, and sunsets over the mountains are breathtaking.
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.
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.
