Explore our Namibia safari guide to discover all the essential information for crafting your perfect Namibia adventure.

1. Namib Desert & Sossusvlei – Majestic Sand Dunes & Enigmatic Desert Creatures

Deep in the Namib, the world’s most ancient desert, lies one of Africa’s most enchanting destinations: Sossusvlei – home to Namibia’s iconic red sand dunes. Reaching heights of up to 300 metres, these majestic monoliths stand as the highlight of this remarkable sea of sand, yet the Namib Desert holds countless more wonders beyond the Sossusvlei Dunes. Establish your base at one of the outstanding lodges in the area and embark on a journey to uncover the hidden wildlife and breathtaking vistas of this mesmerizing landscape, a significant portion of which is safeguarded by the Namib Naukluft National Park. Recognized as one of Namibia’s premier destinations, you’re sure to have an extraordinary experience.

Immerse Yourself in the Desert

2. Etosha National Park – Iconic Wildlife Encounters & Majestic Predators

Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s largest and most remarkable conservation areas, stands out as the ultimate destination for an authentic Namibia safari experience. Situated in the remote northern region of Namibia, the wildlife reserve offers an exhilarating sense of seclusion while remaining conveniently reachable via gravel roads suitable for a standard family vehicle.

Etosha, with its vast salt pan, is a realm of big game and presents an exciting mix of iconic African wildlife like elephants, zebras, and giraffes, alongside desert dwellers such as black rhinos, gemsboks, and springboks. Lion, hyena, and cheetah frequently grace Etosha’s renowned wildlife-filled waterholes, which are essential to experience during the dry season from May to October, the prime time for observing Namibia’s incredible wildlife. While there are options for staying within the park, we suggest opting for one of the nearby private reserves to enjoy a more luxurious experience, exclusive amenities, and an exciting array of safari activities.

Explore The Ultimate Wildlife Sanctuary

3. Damaraland – Stunningly Dramatic Landscapes & Unique Desert Creatures

An inland region of rugged mountains, gravel plains, and flash-flood rivers, Damaraland is the ultimate destination in Namibia for breathtaking landscapes. Regarded as a premier destination in Namibia, this stunning location presents magnificent and awe-inspiring vistas during the day, and at night, the sky sparkles with an abundance of brilliant stars.

Located in the Kunene Region of north-west Namibia, Damaraland is a treasure trove of Bushman art and geological wonders, where the abundance of wildlife will astonish you – desert-adapted elephants, black rhinos, and various antelope species are just a few of the highlights. Cozy lodges are tucked away in secluded spots, providing the perfect home base for your explorations in the captivating Damaraland region.

Sojourn In Solitude

4. Skeleton Coast – Shipwrecks, Seal Colonies & Utter Seclusion

The weathered shipwrecks scattered along the shores of Skeleton Coast National Park may have inspired the name of Namibia’s far northern coastline, yet this area holds far more than mere tales of the past. Vast colonies of seals create a playground for brown hyenas and jackals, while lush inland river valleys teem with a rich variety of animals and birds – establishing it as a must-visit destination in Namibia for many adventurers.

A true hidden gem, those seeking total seclusion, peace, and breathtaking vistas will find exactly what they desire in the select few exclusive lodges in the region. One remarkable place to stay while exploring Namibia is The Shipwreck Lodge, which is as captivating and distinctive to the region as its name suggests.

Journey Back in Time 5. Kaokoveld – The Untamed Wilderness of Southern Africa
The renowned ochre-painted Himba people have inhabited Namibia’s far northern region for generations, but it is only in recent years that the Kaokoveld has become accessible – transforming it into a must-visit destination for both local and international travelers.

Perhaps Southern Africa’s last true wilderness, the wild, sun-baked and remote Kaokoveld invites daring explorers to discover how life can thrive in seemingly impossible conditions. Venture to the select riverside lodges in the Kaokoveld, engage with the local Himba communities, and uncover the hidden wildlife of the region for an unforgettable experience in Namibia. You’ll discover a desire to linger just a bit more, or perhaps much more.

Discover Pristine Landscapes 6. Swakopmund – A Coastal Getaway & Ideal Safari Break
The ideal place to pause and replenish in Namibia, the coastal town of Swakopmund seamlessly merges its German colonial roots with a vibrant African essence. Often shrouded in early morning sea fog, Swakopmund is the meeting point of the Namib Desert and Namibia’s Atlantic coast, providing effortless access to the desert, a diverse array of thrilling activities, and numerous local attractions to explore. When planning your trip, make sure to add Swakopmund to your itinerary for an engaging seaside town experience, brimming with distinctive attractions at every turn, during your visit to Namibia.

Rest by the Ocean

7. Lüderitz & Kolmanskop – Coastal Seclusion & Renowned Abandoned Town

Something that feels like it leaped straight out of a vivid imagination or an epic film, the ghost town of Kolmanskop stands out as a must-visit spot in Namibia for many adventurers. This is not just a result of the unique history, but also because of the amazing photo opportunities offered by the now-empty mansions enveloped in sand dunes. A stunning testament to the triumph of nature, this breathtaking view is a must-see for every traveler. Turn your day into an exciting journey by enjoying lunch in the charming, historic seaside town of Lüderitz – just a quick drive from Kolmanskop and brimming with its own unique attractions.

8. Windhoek – Begin or Conclude Your Safari in Africa’s Most Accessible Big City

Pristine, secure, and welcoming – it’s no surprise that Windhoek stands out as one of Africa’s beloved capital cities and a highlight in Namibia. Additionally, its central location and international airport position Windhoek as the perfect starting or concluding point for an unforgettable Namibia safari. Gather your essentials, tackle those emails, and take a moment for yourself – Windhoek offers a variety of places to stay, from well-known international brands to charming boutique hotels and lodges, along with a diverse selection of dining and drinking options. What else could you possibly desire?

Explore the Town

9. Waterberg Plateau – Wildlife Observation in an Extraordinary Setting

The 200-metre-high, flat-topped Waterberg Plateau is often referred to as the Lost Eden, a place brimming with untold stories and exploration waiting to unfold. Set apart in a vast expanse, the lush grasslands of this striking brick-red sandstone formation are a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, featuring leopards, cheetahs, white rhinos, buffalo, and the elusive roan and sable antelopes, alongside 200 species of birds. The Waterberg Plateau invites exploration through a Nature Conservation guided game drive or a guided wilderness trail, both commencing from the resort nestled at the base of the plateau. It’s easy to see why it ranks among the top spots in Namibia, making it an essential addition to your travel itinerary.

10. Caprivi Strip – Explore the Wetlands, Encounter Wildlife & Enjoy Birdwatching

Once the overlooked expanse of Southern Africa, the Caprivi Strip (now known as the Zambezi Region) has transformed from its infamous history and has blossomed into one of the area’s premier wildlife havens. A significant portion of the Caprivi is dedicated to conservation areas, providing a wetland experience that rivals the magnificent Okavango Delta. Experience the thrill of staying at one of the outstanding lodges in the region while embarking on guided game drives and river cruises. This destination in Namibia is perfect for spotting elephants, buffalo, hippos, and a variety of antelope species. It is also a prime spot for enjoying some of the finest bird watching in the country.

Explore the Wetlands

11. Fish River Canyon – A Stunning Spectacle in Namibia’s Far South

The Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world, is truly breathtaking and stands out as a must-see destination in Namibia. Stunning in its vastness, it takes you by surprise when you reach its brink: a flat, dry expanse abruptly plunges half a vertical kilometre into 160 winding kilometres of canyon. Prepare your cameras, as you will want to immortalize the stunning array of purples, greys, and pinks, shaped over countless millennia by the relentless forces of the Fish River. Experience the breathtaking scenery from your vehicle, or dive deeper into the experience by exploring the Fish River Canyon hiking trail.