Central Namibia is one of the most popular in the country. The area includes the capital, Windhoek, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Between the Kalahari desert and the Namib sand dunes lie the Central Highlands. Cattle ranching is prevalent in this area, and most tourism facilities have origins in cattle and game ranching. A large part of central Namibia is characterised by varying wilderness areas, from small red dunes and grasslands to the spectacular Waterberg Plateau and its surrounding reserves. Visiting this central region will give a feel of the country as a whole - always leaving you wanting more.
The NamibRand Nature Reserve, located in southern Namibia, is privately established to help protect the unique ecosystems and animals of the Namib Desert. Being the largest private reserve in Africa, the dramatic landscapes consist of sand dunes, gravel plains and rocky mountains. Several activities are to be had amid one of Namibia’s most breathtaking environments - the nature walks and thrilling night-time game drives are a must! The mars-like stretch of land homes animals in abundance - from herds of oryx and springbok to the hyenas and leopards lurking in the shadows - just waiting to be found.
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.
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.
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.
Namibia's Zannier Reserve, which encompasses 900 square kilometres, is just a 30-minute drive from Windhoek International Airport. There is a wide variety of wildlife inhabiting its scenic savanna-covered landscapes, including leopards and giraffes, warthogs and ostriches. Additionally, the Shiloh Wildlife Sanctuary nearby provides refuge for elephants and rhinos that have been injured or abandoned. Numerous safaris are offered to experience the African Savannah, all supervised by experienced guides, and programmes can be designed according to your desires and your thirst for adventure.
