Things to Do in Namibia
Things to Do in Namibia
Namibia is an expansive realm of breathtaking scenery, extraordinary wildlife, captivating culture, and unforgettable experiences. It can be challenging to figure out the best way to begin and fully embrace your time there. Discover our top recommendations, personally explored by our safari specialists, for the ultimate experiences to include in a Namibia itinerary:
1. Experience the thrill of observing magnificent wildlife in Etosha, featuring the illuminated Okaukuejo waterhole.
Etosha National Park presents an incredible chance in Namibia for classic wildlife observation. Game viewing is exceptional and often centers around the many waterholes, which become especially vibrant during the dry season (July to October). The numbers of lions, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, and plains game are thriving remarkably well. At the peak of the dry season, witnessing five or six different species gathered at a single waterhole is a remarkable experience that embodies the essence of Etosha!
2. Encounter the Himba people in Kaokoland
In this vast and open land, the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife often take center stage during a trip to Namibia, overshadowing the local culture. Yet, some regions of the country, like the secluded Kaokoland in northwest Namibia, are inhabited by the nomadic Himba people. As pastoralists, they journey in search of sustenance and water for their herds, yet regions like Purros and Kunene present chances to encounter the Himba and delve into their unique lifestyle and survival in a challenging landscape.
3. Follow the Desert Rhino
In the heart of the central Damaraland region, thrilling opportunities await to track the elusive black ‘desert’ rhino. Numerous camps and lodges in exclusive areas collaborate with Save The Rhino Trust, providing guests the chance to join rangers in the thrilling pursuit of rhinos during the mornings. The journey takes you deep into the wild, where you will connect with the rangers and venture to the rhino’s last known whereabouts. The rangers embark on foot to track down the rhino, eager to share the experience with the guests. While nothing is ever certain with experiences like this, if you find yourself tracking black rhino on foot, it will undoubtedly be a memorable adventure that gets your heart racing!
4. Embrace the Great Outdoors
If you have a passion for exploring uncharted territories and immersing yourself in untouched nature, then guided wild camping in the Namib Desert or the secluded Kaokoland might just be the pinnacle of your adventure in Namibia. Spending nights in basic pop-up tents amidst the vast desert and enjoying meals prepared over a campfire beneath breathtaking night skies offers an unparalleled experience. It can definitely be an exhilarating experience, with hours spent navigating through rough landscapes, makeshift restrooms, and very simple showers, but that is all part of the thrill. The landscapes are stunning, and wildlife abounds, though it can be elusive and sightings may be hard to come by. Yet, when you do encounter a sighting, chances are you’ll have the moment all to yourself!
5. Discover the breathtaking dunes of Sossusvlei
Namibia’s most iconic destination, Sossusvlei boasts towering amber sand dunes that soar to 300 metres high. Venturing out by vehicle, on foot, or soaring through the skies offers an exhilarating experience. With the guidance of a local expert, you uncover the rich history of the region, its diverse geography, fascinating geology, and the resilient plants and animals that thrive in this arid landscape. If you are in good shape, you can tackle the larger dunes like Big Daddy. Alternatively, for a breathtaking view without the physical exertion, consider taking a helicopter, hot air balloon, or fixed-wing scenic flight.
6. Explore Fish River Canyon
In the frequently ignored southern part of Namibia, you will find Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon on the planet, following the Grand Canyon, of course. Spending a couple of nights soaking in the breathtaking views, participating in a guided day tour to the canyon’s base, or daring to explore on foot brings an exciting mix to a Namibian itinerary and is a must if you are aiming for the ‘ultimate’ Namibia experience.
7. Experience a Night Beneath the Open Sky in NamibRand
South of Sossusvlei lies the NamibRand Nature Reserve, a place brimming with stunning landscapes and serene solitude. A remarkable journey in the southern part of the reserve is the Tok Tokkie Trails – a two-night guided walking adventure through the desert. You delve deeply into the desert, exploring its formation and the fascinating wildlife that calls it home. Accommodation is a cozy bed beneath the vast sky, offering an astonishing view.
8. Enjoy drinks at sunset from Mowani Mountain Camp
Sunsets across Namibia are breathtaking, and there are countless remarkable spots to take in their beauty. One setting that we cherish is the sundowner experience at Mowani Mountain Camp near Twyfelfontein. As you ascend the trail leading to the granite boulders, you discover a delightful outcrop adorned with cushions, chairs, and a bar offering an array of freshly crafted cocktails! As drinks are poured and snacks are served, you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking sunset before dinner.
9. Seek out the majestic desert elephants in Damaraland
The Twyfelfontein area of southern Damaraland is a vibrant landscape where several herds of desert-adapted elephant families roam freely. Numerous lodges in the region provide thrilling game drives to seek out these majestic elephants in the Ugab and Huab River valleys. As the sun rises, you set off from your camp or lodge, venturing into the dry riverbeds in search of tracks and signs of recent elephant activity. The landscapes are astonishing, resembling the otherworldly terrain of Mars rather than that of southern Africa. Once you discover the elephant herds, you immerse yourself in their world along the riverbeds as they graze and wander in pursuit of water.
10. Explore the wild as you track majestic big cats and elusive pangolin at AfriCat
Nestled between Etosha and Windhoek lies the Okonjima Nature Reserve, a vibrant habitat that hosts the AfriCat Foundation. AfriCat was founded in the early 1990s with the aim of reducing human-wildlife conflict and protecting big cats throughout Namibia. Since then, the organisation has expanded, and with the backing of tourism, they have rescued hundreds of cats from all over the country, setting free those they are able to. The reserve is home to fascinating cats, especially leopards, which can be tracked using telemetry. There is also the chance to dive deeper into the exciting research surrounding these fascinating cats. Moreover, you can embark on a journey to track pangolin, explore the AfriCat foundation, and witness the rehabilitation of various feline species.
11. Embark on an adventure with Bruno Nebe (Mundulea/ Turnstone)
A great guide can truly transform an experience! Joining Bruno Nebe of Turnstone Tours and Mundulea Private Nature Reserve offers an opportunity to delve into the wild alongside one of Namibia’s premier guides. Once a National Geographic photographer and deep-sea diver, Bruno is now an exceptional guide who provides an engaging experience on his private reserve, Mundulea, as well as with Turnstone Tours in Swakopmund and its surroundings. While there are chances to discover by vehicle, the most enriching experience with Bruno and his areas of expertise comes from venturing out on foot.
12. Explore Sandwich Harbour
Just beyond the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, you will discover Sandwich Harbour. Reaching this destination requires 4×4 vehicles to navigate the dunes or cruise along the beach, promising an exhilarating day trip along the coast. As you journey through the landscape, keep an eye out for unique species that thrive in the arid environment, like the brown hyena, oryx, and springbok, along with various smaller creatures. Then, prepare to ascend the magnificent dunes for a breathtaking panorama of Sandwich Harbour beneath you. Choosing the right guide is essential, and we often suggest Turnstone Tours.
Sales Specialist Joe suggests Turnstone Tours for an exhilarating 4×4 full day adventure around Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay on his recent self-drive itinerary through Namibia.
