Namibia on Africa's southwestern coast is both strange and naturally beautiful. The treacherous Atlantic Ocean relentlessly pounds its shores and countless shipwrecks lie scattered beneath its turbulent waters. Not far inland, the ancient Namib Desert creates a striking and unforgettable landscape, and in the north, the stunning Etosha National Park provides wildlife safari adventures.
Sossusvlei, in the Namib Desert, boasts some of the world’s highest dunes. Here, the dark orange sand, reaching 1,000 feet into the heavens creates a surreal landscape that contrasts with the deep blue sky. Climb one of the towering dunes to take in the panoramic views and appreciate the vast desert landscape.
Covering an area of 8,600 square miles, the Etosha National Park is home to 340 bird species and 114 mammal species including the Big Five. It is renowned for its large elephant and black rhino populations. Zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest graze amongst the many antelopes. Look out for lions, cheetahs, and leopards stalking prey.
Swakopmund is a pretty town with a distinctly colonial feel. Nestled between the Ocean and the desert the town has easy access to some of Namibia’s most beautiful landscapes. Promenades, cafes, German bakeries, and a lovely coastline sets the scene for a peaceful escape in a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of activities for the adventurous traveler.
Namibia is a strange and beautiful country on Africa’s southwest coast. Here, the cold and hostile Atlantic Ocean smashes against the rugged Skeleton Coast, so named for the many ships that lie broken beneath the rolling waves. A short distance from the coast, enormous red dunes rise into the heavens contrasting with the deep blue sky. This is the Namib, the world’s oldest desert, boasting dunes of 1,000 feet and more. This is a land of contrasts from the coast to the desert and stunning national parks where wildlife, including Africa’s Big Five, roams free.
The ancient Namib Desert is one of the country’s most outstanding and memorable features. The Deadvlei, a white pan, with ancient, desiccated trees stands out amongst the red dunes, creating a surreal landscape. As the sun rises and sets in this desert, the shifting light transforms the dunes into dynamic landscapes of colors and shadows. At night, clear skies and low light pollution transform this into one of the world’s best stargazing theaters. Millions of stars light the heavens, offering the viewer an entrancing picture of the Milky Way.
One of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations, Etosha National Park is a wildlife paradise and the world’s most important protector of the endangered black rhino. The park’s vast Etosha Pan, a large salt flat, becomes a shimmering white expanse during the dry season, providing a stark backdrop for game viewing. Waterholes attract elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes.
Discover a vast sense of peace in the desert silence. Visit the beautiful Etosha National Park and discover the desolate Skeleton Coast, with its eerie shipwrecks, and abundant marine life, a place of haunting beauty. Travel with a small group of adventurous women on a curated trip to this exquisite African gem.
Culturally, Namibia is a melting pot of ethnic groups. These include the Himba, Herero, and San people, each with their own traditions and ways of life. Engaging with local communities offers travelers an opportunity to learn about Namibia’s rich cultural heritage and the people’s resilience in adapting to one of Earth’s most challenging environments.
Pack comfortable, light, and airy clothes. Flat, comfortable shoes and hiking boots will serve you well. Make sure to pack your swimsuit, hat, and sunscreen. Always pack a light jacket or jersey for cooler evening temperatures.
Sossusvlei is famous for its stunning red dunes some of which as high as anywhere in the world. You will also find a stark white clay pan amid the desert. Visit the lively markets and art galleries in pretty Swakopmund. Don’t forget to pencil time in for a day or two at the Etosha National Park.
You don’t need a visa to enter Namibia if you are there for a short trip of less than 90 days.
The currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar. You can also use the South African Rand in shops, hotels, and restaurants. There is a one-to-one exchange rate.
Ensure that your normal vaccinations are up to date. Hepatitis A, Malaria, Rabies, and Typhoid vaccinations are also advised. Some doctors might advise taking pills to prevent Malaria.
