Namibia
Safari Destination
We
get why Namibia is sometimes called ‘Africa for beginners’. For starters, it
boasts the world’s largest free-roaming population of
black rhino and cheetah. Throw in the fact that Namibia was the first
country in the world to incorporate the protection of the environment into its
constitution and that some 14% of the land is protected, combined with its
low population density (only about two million people live there), and you just
know that your chances of seeing an abundance of wildlife is practically
guaranteed. So contact one of our travel consultants today to get an
itinerary tailor-made just for you. Whether it’s game watching,
adrenaline hunting, star gazing, bird watching or just plain relaxing you’re
after, Namibia has it all in spades.
It’s
a photographer’s dream destination: the vast, ancient landscapes filled with
spectacular red dunes as high as mountains, flat-top mountains, granite
outcrops and plains of basalt boulders. Visitors flock from around the world to
take in the awesome grandeur of the iconic dunes at Sossusvlei. Sossusvlei
(‘sossus’ meaning ‘place of no return’) is a clay pan located in the huge
Namib-Naukluft National Park, and its star-shaped dunes are among the highest
in the world. Climb Dune 45 before sunrise to experience the magic of the
morning light enflaming the iron-oxide-rich dunes. On the rare occasion – about
once every 10 years – when the pan gets flooded, it forms a natural oasis
teeming with flamingos, dragonflies, frogs and other wildlife. But even when
there’s no water around, the Namib desert - Namib means ‘vast place’ in Nama –
is a living, breathing space despite the harsh conditions and the careful
observer will spot the ‘little 5’, including the Namaqua chameleon.
With
so much sand around there’s loads of fun to be had. Swakopmund on the coast,
with its unique blend of German colonial architecture and African culture, is
an adrenaline junkie’s paradise. Fancy sand boarding down a dune or two? Or
take to the skies with some skydiving and paragliding – or the more chilled
hot-air ballooning. Also, racing across the desert, and up and down dunes on a
quad bike will plant a grin on your face that will stay there long after you’re
back home again.
Wildlife
pretty much comes to you at Etosha National Park in the dry season (May to
October). There’s no need to search for the animals: simply settle down at one
of the many watering holes and watch the parade of animals coming to drink. Or
head further north to the lush panhandle that is the Zambezi Region –
previously known as the Caprivi Strip – where boat trips, fishing and game
drives are the order of the day.
A MODERN CITY WITH A RICH HERITAGE
With
its location right next to the international airport, Windhoek is a friendly,
safe and clean capital city to set up base. Windhoek has a range of
high-end hotels, boutique hotels and small lodges to check-in to
before starting out on a Namibia adventure.
Must
see: The National Museum of Namibia and St. Mary’s Catholic Church which is
still active.
Etosha National Park
AFRICA’S GREATEST WILDLIFE RESERVE
Enter
Etosha National Park to view one of Africa’s biggest and best conservation
areas. The park offers you a chance to safely see classic African animals such
as elephants, giraffes, lions and zebras along with endangered black rhinos and
cheetahs.
Must
see: Iconic list of African animals including elephants, giraffes and zebras,
along with desert species and roaming lions, hyenas and cheetahs and watering
holes surrounded by wildlife during the dry season which is from May to
October.
Sossusvlei
AN AWE-INSPIRING LAND OF SAND
Nestled
between the Namib Desert and the Naukluft mountain range, the majestic
Namib-Naukluft National Park features the famous red sand dunes of Sossusvlei
and spacious gravel plains. The park is home to various antelope species,
black-back jackals, mountain zebras and hyenas which live near the vegetated
river valleys.
Must
see: The well-renowned red sand dunes which are up to 300 metres high. A
variety of wildlife including gemsboks, mountain zebras, spotted and brown
hyenas, along with small nocturnal animals.
Swakopmund
A COASTAL HOLIDAY TOWN
Find
everything you need for exploring at the seaside holiday town of
Swakopmund. Founded in 1892, Swakopmund features a unique blend of German
colonial architecture and African culture. This lively beach town offers plenty
of fun activities including balloon rides, skydiving and quad biking.
Must
see: Authentic German colonial architecture and culture. The Welwitschia
mirabilis – the oldest living fossil located near the Khan River and the oasis
of Goanikontes. The stunning ‘Moon Landscape’.
Skeleton Coast National Park
WHERE THE DESERT MEETS THE SEA
From
haunting shipwrecks to coastal wildlife, Skeleton Coast National Park is a
tranquil destination with plenty to see. Located on Namibia’s far northern
region, Skeleton Coast offers intriguing ghost stories accompanied with
spectacular views, a thriving seal colony, and nearly 250 bird species.
Must
see: The shipwrecked vessels that are scattered along the beaches. Breathtaking
scenery that includes the sea, desert and sky. Nearly 250 bird species, black
–back jackals and a huge seal colony.
Damaraland
EXQUISITE DESERT SCENERY
The
beauty of Damaraland lies in its breathtaking scenic views, ridged mountains,
rushing rivers and vast plains. Explore Damaraland to see desert wildlife such
as black rhinos and elephants roam the open plains. At night, enjoy the
countless stars that light up the sky.
Must
see: Desert-adapted wild animals including elephants, black rhinos and a
variety of antelope species. Ancient Bushman art and other geological oddities.
Kaokoveld
A HIDDEN GEM
Visit
Kaokoveld to learn about how the ochre-painted Himba people made Namibia into
their home. With access granted to Kaokoveld only a few years ago, this remote
village offers everyday travelers a chance to know the locals and see
how they live.
Must
see: The friendly and welcoming Himba tribe. The rugged landscape far from
modern civilization.
Caprivi Strip
BREATHTAKING WETLANDS
The
Caprivi Strip has gone from a forgotten frontier to one of the top wildlife
destinations in South Africa. Recently renamed the Zambezi Region, this area
features rich wetlands and is one of the best places to view elephants, hippos,
buffalos and exotic birds.
Must
see: Fascinating list of wildlife that inhabits the region, including monkeys,
elephants and about 340 bird species. The amazing wetlands and active wildlife
during the winter months between May and October.
Fish River Canyon
A SPECTACULAR LOCATION FOR HIKING
As
the second largest canyon in the world, the Fish River Canyon is a remarkable
place to explore. This richly colored canyon features a long interior
river and excellent hiking trails. Fish River Canyon also offers an immersive
experience to adventurers and hikers.
Must
see: The flowing river that connects to the Ai-Ais Hot Springs. Panoramic view
of Fish River Canyon
Waterberg Plateau
WHERE RARE AND EXOTIC WILDLIFE RESIDE
Often
called the Lost Eden, Waterberg Plateau is a region best known for its isolated
landscape, lush grassland and its unique flat mountain. This beautiful national
park is home to various animals including cheetahs, white rhinos, buffalos, 200
bird species, plus endangered and rare roan and stable antelopes.
Must
see: Amazing short and long hiking trails through the wilderness. An impressive
list of rare and endangered birdlife and animals.