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.
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.
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.
Namibia's colourful and unique town of Luderitz is located on the Atlantic Ocean shoreline, where coastal rocks meet the Namib Desert. Despite the waves and winds brought by the Benguela Current, the town is home to an abundance of marine life and birds. Flamingo and penguin colonies can be found nestled on the rocky coasts of the Lüderitz Peninsula, while the Sperrgebiet National Park preserves the areas wildest landscape. Bogenfels Arch, located just outside of town, is a 30m natural arch carved in the cliff face. Luderitz has kept its sleepy old-world atmosphere throughout the years and begs to be explored.
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.
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.
