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.
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.
Surrounded by grassland and mopane shrublands, eastern Etosha is best-known for its remarkable variety of wildlife. Springbok are found abundantly within this region, while the many waterholes attract black rhinoceros and various antelope. During the rainy season, animals tend to migrate near the eastern Von Lindequist Gate. Makalani palms sway around waterholes on this side of the park, and the nearby pans are hotspots for blushing pink flamingos. Pure bliss is finding a quiet spot to wait for action, be it zebra jostling for a drink or sudden drama as elephant arrive in rumbling groups to quench their thirst.
With its striking copper and red sandstone cliffs, Waterberg Plateau is one of Namibia's most magnificent natural wonders. Surrounded by freshwater springs, the brick-red peaks rise up out of the surrounding Namibian savannah, overlooking the Kalahari Desert. Dinosaur footprints, mysterious rock engravings and a thriving number of Black and White Rhino scatter the plains. Natural canyons of the plateau feature open grasslands and lush woodlands. With vivid landscapes and an indescribable atmosphere, Waterberg is a must-do when visiting the country. The sheer beauty of the plateau is an unforgettable experience.
The quiet town of Okahandja, with its flat, grassy plains and sandy roads, is located in the central parts of Namibia. Okahandja is rich in history and revolves mainly around the Herero people. Every year, the tribe commemorates a traditional Herero Day where pageants are held, and the ladies dress in traditional dresses and headdresses. A few kilometres southwest of Okahandja are the thermal springs of "Gross Barmen" - a historic settlement and a recreational spa area on the Swakop River - a great way to spend a relaxing day. The town, although small, has so much to offer, and people are always left wanting more.
