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Namibia
Overview
Namibia, flanked by the South Atlantic ocean to the west and the Kalahari Desert to the east, is a country that never fails to inspire and stimulate the imaginations of all those who set foot on her land. Bordered by South Africa, Botswana and Angola, the country is blessed with some of the world’s most astonishing natural attractions and home to the age-old traditions of its ancient tribes. Whether in search of cultural illumination, outdoor adventure and extreme sporting activities, a photographers paradise or just a delve into the unknown, Namibia certainly has something for all.
Although being the proud owner of time-honoured traditions and arguably the world’s oldest desert, the Namib, the country itself is relatively young, gaining independence from German colonisation in 1990. It is perhaps the colonial past and the many tribes, including the Owambo, Herero and Himba people that give the country and its 2 million population their unique and friendly spirit. In fact, it is not uncommon to hear as many as nine languages, counting English, Arikaans, German and tribal dialects.
This vast and diverse country is commonly split into four distinct regions, with the major attractions spread throughout the length and breadth. To the north lie the Caprivi and Kavanga regions, home to the towns of Khorixas, Tsumeb, Opuwo and Ondangwa and the spectacular Etosha National Park. The Central Plateau sits north of the Tropic of Capricorn with the country’s cosmopolitan capital Windhoek and farming town of Gobabis. Running for most of the country’s length, the Namib Desert and Skeleton Coast spread out along the Atlantic shores, home to the dramatic dunes of Sossusvlei and the adventure capital Swakopmund. Finally, Southern Namibia is the Kalahari region, bordering South Africa and Botswana and in possession of the second largest canyon on earth at Fish River, south of Keetmanshoop.
Being such a large country, getting around Namibia often involves long, seemingly endless drives between towns, cities and attractions. Nevertheless, the condition of the roads is commendable, making self-drive tours possible and opening up boundless possibilities of discovery. However, it is important to take care when driving at night as it is often necessary to share the roads with the wildlife residing in the areas. Without the freedom of a car, travellers can take advantage of the decent TransNamib railway operating between major destinations and neighbouring countries. To get out to the smaller, less visited area, combies (minibus taxis) are always readily available.
A consequence of its size, Namibia experiences a range of climates that loosely relate to the varying geographical regions, yet it is a great country to visit at all times of the year. Some things to consider are that Southern Namibia becomes unbearably hot during summer months, therefore better visited between May and September, although be ready for cold desert nights. Namibian summers are best spent along the Namib Desert and Skeleton Coast with cooler climates. For trips to Etosha, the comfortable days from May to September are best, providing the best game watching opportunities. One thing is for sure, whenever travellers choose to visit this giant of a country they rarely go home disappointed and leave with a lifetime of magical memories.
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Namibia
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Namibia
Sossusvlei - Visit the fascinating 32,000 sq km sea of sand and its colossal sand dunes, some of which tower to an amazing 325 metres. Climb the dunes at sunrise or sunset to experience the amazing change of colours and capture the perfect photo opportunity.
Etosha National Park - Spreading across an area of over 22,000 sq km, the “Place of Dry Water” is one of Africa’s most important wildlife sanctuaries. The park offers the chance to spot as many as 150 species of animal, including the Big 5 as well as rare species like the black rhino and black-faced impala.
Fish River Canyon - One of Namibia’s most dramatic natural beauties. At 160km long and with a depth, in parts, of 550 metres, it is second only in size to the Grand Canyon of Arizona. Popular trekking site, with dramatic landscapes and an array of wildlife.
Skeleton Coast - Explore the unspoilt and dramatic landscapes of the country’s northern coastal region that received its name because of the amount of shipwrecks and accompanying low survival rate of the stranded.
Kaokoland - Visit the home of the wonderful Himba tribe people who live in an area of incredible natural beauty, counting Epupa Falls, Kuene River and the Otjihipa Mountains. The region is also a refuge for the desert elephant, black rhino and desert lion.
Quivertree Forest and Giants Playground- 15km northeast from the Keetmanshoop, on Garaganus Farm, a huge collection of Kokerboom (Quiver trees), which are characteristic of the extremely dry regions of Namibia and, Giants Playground, a labyrinth of enormous natural rock formations.
Naute Dam - Relax with a picnic, spot birds or go for a swim at Namibia’s third largest dam. Marvel as the floodgates open, releasing water into the desert.
Adventure Sports - Namibia’s vast and varied landscapes are ideal for a feast of sporting activities. Trek through the canyons, kite surf on the bleak coastlines, quad bike across the sand dunes, skydive over Swakopmund or try your hand at sand boarding.
Katutura Township - Spend a day at the welcoming township of Windhoek, experiencing the life of its vibrant inhabitants. Especially enjoyable is the Soweto Market, where vendors sell everything one can imagine.
German Architecture - Being a former German colony, many towns have been left with an intriguing array of homes, train stations, churches. Notable examples can be found in the towns of Windhoek, Swakopmund and Luderitz
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Namibia
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Namibia
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Namibia
Hotel Reviews
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Namibia
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