Discover the Top 12 Things to Do and Places to Explore in Namibia

Ah, Namibia! A land of enchantment and natural beauty. Get ready to embark on a journey like no other. In this guide, I’ll reveal the 12 best things to do and places to explore in Namibia. So, fasten your seatbelts, because we’re about to take off!

1. Etosha National Park: Prepare to be amazed by the diverse wildlife that calls this park home. Spot majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, and mighty lions in their natural habitat.

2. Sossusvlei Sand Dunes: These iconic dunes are a photographer’s dream. Get up early to witness the sunrise and marvel at the ever-shifting sands.

3. Swakopmund: This charming coastal town offers a unique blend of German architecture and Namibian culture. Take a stroll along the promenade and try your hand at sandboarding.

4. Fish River Canyon: Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an unforgettable adventure through Africa’s largest canyon. The breathtaking views will leave you in awe.

5. Skeleton Coast: Brace yourself for an eerie experience as you explore this hauntingly beautiful coastline. Explore shipwrecks, encounter seals, and let the ghostly fog captivate your senses.

6. Namib Desert: Immerse yourself in the oldest desert in the world. Marvel at the towering sand dunes, spot desert-adapted wildlife, and witness nature’s resilience.

7. Twyfelfontein: Discover ancient rock engravings that depict the stories of our ancestors. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a window into the past.

8. Caprivi Strip: Explore the lush wetlands and abundant wildlife of this narrow strip of land. Get your camera ready for rare bird sightings and boat cruises along the rivers.

9. Epupa Falls: Prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of these cascading waterfalls. Take a refreshing swim or simply soak in the awe-inspiring scenery.

10. Namib-Naukluft Park: Embark on a scenic drive or a thrilling hike through this vast park. From stunning mountains to ancient riverbeds, there’s something for everyone.

11. Damaraland: Discover the dramatic landscapes and unique flora of this rugged region. Spot the endangered desert-adapted elephants and marvel at the impressive rock formations.

12. Spitzkoppe: Hike to the top of these granite peaks and be rewarded with panoramic views of the Namibian landscape. This natural wonder is a must-see.

So, there you have it – the 12 best things to do and places to explore in Namibia. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a history enthusiast, Namibia has something to offer everyone. Are you ready to experience the wonders of this captivating country? The journey awaits!

When I think of the Kaokoveld in Namibia, I can’t help but remember the words of Garth Owen-Smith. He once described it as a place that is harsh and unfriendly, but when the sun is low in the sky, it transforms into something truly spectacular. The basalt rocks take on a rusty hue, and the mountains in the distance are painted in soft shades of purple and blue. It’s a sight that takes your breath away.

It’s no wonder that South Africans have been drawn to Namibia for so long. We are captivated by the otherworldly landscapes, the quaint roadside cafes, the unique wildlife, and the thrill of embarking on an adventure through Namibia’s vast and dazzling wilderness. If you feel the same pull, I’m here to tell you that there are several must-visit stops along the way that are absolutely worth your time.

1. Visit the fascinating ghost town of Kolmanskop

Have you ever seen something so chilling and haunting as this ghost town just outside of Luderitz? It sends shivers down my spine. This town emerged in the middle of the desert when they discovered diamonds scattered across the dunes. But when they found even bigger diamonds in other parts of Namibia, everyone packed up and left. Can you believe it’s been around 60 years since the last person walked these streets? Now, the desert has completely reclaimed the buildings. It’s like something out of a movie.

If you’re up for it, you can take a tour of the old bowling alley, dairy, butchery, town hall, and even some of the houses. It’s fascinating to learn about how the 300 Germans who once lived here braved the harsh conditions. Imagine trying to survive in such an inhospitable environment! It’s truly mind-boggling.

2. Take on the Adventure of Hiking the Fish River Canyon

Credit: Teagan Cunniffe

Let me tell you about the Fish River Canyon. It’s one of the biggest canyons on Earth, and it’s right here in Africa. This place is truly special and unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Just imagine walking through a landscape that seems like it’s from another world. That’s what you’ll experience at the Fish River Canyon.

This canyon is gigantic, stretching out for a whopping 160 kilometers. And it’s not just wide—it’s almost 30 kilometers across at its widest point. Can you picture that? It’s like standing on the edge of something so immense and powerful that it takes your breath away.

When you hike in the Fish River Canyon, you can choose from a few different trails. Each trail offers its own unique challenges and rewards. If you’re up for a real adventure, you can take on a tough and demanding trail. But if you want something a little less intense, you can opt for an easier trail. The choice is yours.

3. Discover the Etosha Pan

Credit: Werner Reyneke

Let’s talk about Etosha National Park, a special place in Africa spanning over 20,000 square kilometers. What makes it so unique? Well, it’s all about the watering holes. These precious spots gather animals from far and wide, creating a spectacle of nature. As the sun sets, a grand parade begins, with various species flocking to the waterhole for a refreshing drink. Imagine witnessing elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and maybe even lions quenching their thirst.

4. Just hop in your car and explore

Credit: Teagan Cunniffe

I want to tell you about two incredibly beautiful roads in our country: the D826 and the C27. These roads are known for being the most scenic in the whole country. When you drive along these roads, you’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes. Imagine long, straight roads, where the rich red earth stretches out before you. The roads wind through mountains, and you’ll see silvery grassy plains with terracotta dunes. It’s a truly breathtaking sight. And one of the best things about these roads is the peace and quiet. You won’t come across many cars along the way, just the occasional one passing by.

5. Take a Hike on the Tok Tokkie Trail

Credit: Melanie van Zyl

Imagine a thrilling three-day adventure in the desert, walking across sand dunes and exploring the vast NamibRand Nature Reserve. Our camps offer a unique experience with a kitchen set up on a hill, providing delicious three-course meals. You’ll have your own ‘bedroom,’ which includes two stretchers with cozy bedrolls and a charming paraffin lamp. Picture yourself gazing at the stars, enjoying hot water bottles, and waking up to a breathtaking sunrise from the comfort of your bed.

6. Soar above the Namib desert in a hot air balloon

When you embark on your journey early in the morning, you get the incredible opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of a sunrise over the Namib-Naukluft National Park. As you soar through the sky, you will be met with the extraordinary sight of dunes that seem to belong to a different world. From up above, you can admire the magnificent gemsbok roaming amidst the vast expanse of orange dunes, which are juxtaposed against a pristine white salt pan island. This aerial perspective allows you to truly comprehend the sheer size and diverse characteristics of Sossusvlei.

7. Experience the thrill of scaling a dune at Sossusvlei

Imagine standing at the base of an enormous sand dune, its vibrant orange color burning under the sun’s rays. This is Dune 45, a majestic 148-meter sand dune in Sossusvlei, Namibia. Although the hike to the top may not be the easiest, the reward is a breathtaking sunrise that makes it all worthwhile. Many visitors come to Namibia specifically to witness the beauty of these iconic red dunes found in the Namib desert.

Another captivating sight nearby is Deadvlei, a vast expanse of cracked mud scattered with lifeless trees. These ancient trees, estimated to be around 1,000 years old, have not decomposed but rather stand untouched due to the arid air in this region. It’s a surreal and hauntingly beautiful scene.

8. Explore the Charms of Swakopmund

When you’re in Namibia, you have to visit this seaside city! It may not have a lot of people, but it’s still a must-see. With its laid-back vibe, you can enjoy the local restaurants and unique shops. It’s the perfect spot to set up camp for a few days, especially since there are so many amazing things to see and do nearby.

9. Be amazed by the ancient rock art at Twyfelfontein

Credit: African Travel Resource

Hey there! I want to tell you about this incredible place called ǀUi-ǁAis, also known as Twyfelfontein. It’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s a must-visit when you’re in Namibia. You won’t believe it, but this place has the largest concentration of rock carvings in all of Africa – can you imagine that? There are around 2,500 of them!

These rock carvings are really ancient, dating back over 6,000 years. Isn’t that mind-blowing? And the best part is that they were made by prehistoric hunter-gatherers. It’s like stepping back in time and getting a glimpse into the lives of people who lived long ago.

But wait, there’s more! Twyfelfontein is also home to petrified forests. These are forests that have turned into stone over millions of years. It’s like walking through a mythical land where trees are made of stone. It’s absolutely fascinating!

Now, I have a little tip for you. When you visit Twyfelfontein, make sure to bring plenty of water and some protection from the sun. There’s hardly any shade around there, and it can get scorching hot, especially around midday. So, stay hydrated and keep yourself cool!

10. Get Amazed by the Cape Cross Seals

Credit: Erlo Brown

Hey there! Want to see more than just lions and elephants in Namibia? Well, you’re in luck because the coast is home to the incredible Cape Cross Seal Reserve. Here, you’ll be able to witness hundreds of Cape Fur Seals in their natural habitat. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss!

11. Get Amazed by Spitzkoppe

Credit: Rust Brand

Hey there! Have you heard of the amazing Spitzkoppe? It’s like the Matterhorn of the south, a massive piece of granite that has been standing tall for a whopping 120 million years! Can you believe it? It’s truly a wonder of nature.

Now, picture this: a majestic 1,784-meter-tall rock formation, rising proudly from the desert floor. And all around it, as far as the eye can see, is miles and miles of flat, barren desert. It’s like stepping into a whole new world.

If you ever find yourself there, I’ve got a recommendation for you. Stay the night! Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Luckily, you’ve got two great options to choose from: a cozy chalet at Spitzkoppen Lodge or a night under the stars at the campsite. Both options have their charm, so go ahead and take your pick!

12. Experience the magic of stargazing in the desert

If you’re looking for a breathtaking experience, I highly recommend stargazing in the desert at night. The dry and cool air creates the perfect conditions for an unparalleled view of the night sky. With no moisture to obstruct the view, the sky is incredibly clear, and the stars are astonishingly visible.

If you want to make the most of your stargazing adventure, try planning your visit during a new moon. During this lunar phase, there is minimal light in the sky, allowing the stars to shine even brighter. It’s like they put on a dazzling show just for you!

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