Namibia may be a relatively new country, but it’s got a lot on offer. Situated in southwestern Africa, it’s a diverse nation with an abundance of wildlife and beautiful landscapes to soak up. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s also one of the sunniest nations on Earth.

While it boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, that doesn’t mean it’s always sunny in Namibia. In fact, it can get pretty chilly and pretty wet too. We’re here to help you pinpoint the best time of year to visit Namibia.

Best Time to Visit Namibia (Monthly Breakdown)

Namibia Weather in January

As the calendar year kicks off in Namibia, temperatures are very hot. Being in the southern hemisphere, it’s the height of summer. The average temperature hovers between a low of 19°C and a high of 30°C. The start of January is a popular time of year to visit Namibia, with the Christmas holidays continuing with the New Year.

But the rest of the month is considered low season. In fact, visitors at this time of year should expect heavy rains, which fall across an average of 14 days – but that’s only 46 millimeters of rainfall spread across these days. Humidity can be high, but for much of the country, it’s fairly low – in Windhoek (the capital city), for example, it’s 41%. Not exactly the best time to visit Namibia.

Namibia Weather in February

The weather in Namibia in February is similar to that of January. Days are warm, seeing average highs of 28°C and lows of 17°C. Rain is sporadic but heavy – 102 millimeters of rainfall is generally expected across 16 days, usually in the form of short downpours.

It’s still summer, though, and is a great time of year to visit Namibia’s coastline – particularly at Walvis Bay (the second-largest city in Namibia), which boasts pleasant average daytime temperatures of 21°C. 

On the other hand, the Kalahari Desert is incredibly hot – temperatures here easily hit 40°C. Elsewhere, Etosha National Park features average temperatures of 31°C, with accommodation quiet and more affordable this time of year. So not a bad time to visit Namibia if you are looking for a deal.

Namibia Weather in March

March marks two things in Namibia – the end of summer and the end of the rainy season. Downpours begin to tail off in this month, with an average rainfall of only 54 millimeters expected across 15 days. Temperatures are moderately warm, but this begins to fall as the month wears on.

That’s not to say it doesn’t get hot in March in Namibia, fluctuating between 16°C and 27°C in Windhoek; Walvis Bay sees cooler temperatures, averaging out at 20°C in the daytime; while Etosha National Park sees averages of 31°C in the daytime. It’s a great time of year to visit Namibia if you want plenty of sun and pleasant days – there’s an average of 282 hours of sunshine throughout the month. Also, Namib-Naukluft National Park is pleasant this time of year.

Namibia Weather in April

Now that the country is transitioning into its fall season, visitors can expect cooler temperatures and drier days. It’s a beautiful time of year to visit Namibia, particularly because of the lush green nature (a result of the prolonged rainy season) and long hours of sunshine. This is essentially shoulder season in Namibia, and getting good deals on accommodation in April is possible, as it’s still not peak season.

Temperatures across the board in Namibia in April remain pleasantly warm. The high in Windhoek is around 25°C, with only 48% humidity. Elsewhere in Etosha National Park, it’s 30°C, while Walvis Bay is 18°C. The Kalahari Desert, however, can still get very hot, with average temperatures hovering between 19°C and 30°C.

Namibia Weather in May

May is a great time to travel to Namibia. Without the punishing temperatures experienced at the height of summer (the northern hemisphere’s winter, of course), it’s the ideal climate for exploring what the country offers.

Across the nation, the average high is around 25°C, with lows of 10°C not uncommon – it is fall, after all. May also happens to be the last month in the year that sees any rainfall to speak of – just two millimeters on average, maybe on one or two days. It signals the start of Namibia’s very dry season.

The capital city is nice to stroll around this time of year, with a pleasant average temperature of 23°C and just 38% humidity. It’s an awesome time to check out the Kalahari Desert – it’s cooler in May, with plenty of safari animals to see and less of the muddy conditions experienced in the wet season.

Namibia Weather in June

June is the beginning of winter in Namibia, and temperatures across the month can get surprisingly chilly. In the Kalahari Desert, it can really get cold overnight, with minimum temperatures sometimes reaching as low as 5°C! The lack of rain can also make roads dusty.

This also means that humidity is very low. Windhoek, for example, sees humidity levels of 35%. Rainfall in the capital is non-existent as it is elsewhere in the country. In fact, there’s around a 2% chance of rain falling in anytime in June.

June is actually the best time to visit Namibia, sitting just before the start of high season but with generally favorable temperatures. You’ll need some layers to keep warm, especially after sunset and early in the morning. Bring a good safari jacket for these times, but one that you can easily shed later as it’s going to get a warm mid-day.

Namibia Weather in July

July marks the start of the high season in Namibia. Visitors planning a trip to Namibia at the start of the summer holidays should be sure to book way in advance – a year, or even more, is recommended, especially for lodges like Wolwedans, campsites, and more sought-after accommodation.

Temperatures in the capital city swing between highs of 20°C and lows of just 6°C (humidity is low too, at around 34%). And if you’re wondering about rainfall, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s none at all. There are 326 hours of glorious sunshine expected across the month.

It’s a good time to safari in Namibian and road trip around Namibia. However, the start of the high season is the start of the highest prices and the busiest time to visit. It’s less hot than in December and January, and conditions are dry (no mud or thunderstorms to contend with).

Still, July and August are absolutely fantastic. The dunes of Sossusvlei are stunning right now, with bright red sand contrasted against clear blue skies. The blue skies will carry on into the night, and stargazing will be amazing as long as you’re away from the city (not too hard in Namibia).

If you head up to Damaraland, July and August are a great time to see the famous desert elephants roam across the riverbeds in search of water.

Namibia Weather in August

The high season continues through August in Namibia. It’s actually the most popular month for visitors, but also the most expensive. As with July, booking ahead is a must. The weather is beautiful – you can expect cool, bright, sunny days, providing prime conditions for enjoying the country’s natural habitat.

It’s getting gradually warmer, though – temperatures in Windhoek hover between highs of 24°C and lows of 8.6°C. Humidity is lower than ever (23%). Again, there’s no rainfall anywhere.

The Kalahari Desert is popular for wildlife viewing because of the cooler temperatures, but Walvis Bay isn’t so good for beach days (it’s 16°C on average). Etosha National Park is still fairly hot, with daytime highs of 29°C, meaning animals will be easier to see as they gather near the watering holes. If you want to drive around the country, now is a great time as very little is closed.

Namibia Weather in September

International tourist numbers begin to drop in September as school holidays end across the globe. Accommodation prices remain high, but spaces are slightly easier to come by.

September is the last month of winter in Namibia. There’s still no precipitation of any kind, and 321 hours of sunshine to soak up, but temperatures are rising. For example, up in the highland capital of Windhoek, spring is in the air. Highs reach 27°C and lows of 13°C. The humidity is a meager 19%, making it one of the least humid months of the year.

It’s still a good time of year to visit Namibia to explore the Kalahari Desert. It’s still considered high season for the desert region, but temperatures begin to climb here too – daytime temperatures can hit highs of 31°C.

Namibia Weather in October

By October, the high season (in terms of tourism) is dwindling down in Namibia. Days are beginning to get hot as spring really starts to set in. Watering holes in Etosha National Park, and elsewhere, begin to dry out – meaning it’s a great time for safari as animals become easier to spot the hotter it gets. The hotter it gets in the desert the more the animals flock to the few watering holes to refresh. Giving visitors a great advantage to seeing some action near this hot spots.

In Windhoek, temperatures average between lows of 16°C and highs of 29.5°C. Average humidity is also very low in October, hovering around 19%, but rainfall is on the rise. In Windhoek, for example, it rains across an average of four days across the month, but only around 11 millimeters. Showers can, therefore, be easily avoided.

Walvis Bay is also warming up – daytime averages are 16°C. 

Namibia Weather in November

November is the start of summer in Namibia. Temperatures start to soar as the country really begins to heat up. High season is now very much over, but wildlife watching is great. But as the month draws on, more rainfall can be expected ahead of the rainy season proper. We are going into wet season now!

Though it doesn’t rain all day or enough to ruin a trip, the rain mainly hits in short segments throughout the day. The start of the wet season means you might see some pretty wild storms though. Ones that you’ve never seen before – thunder and lightening crackling across the desert – simply amazing.

Temperatures in November in the capital can easily hit highs of 30°C in what is one of the warmest months of the year, with climbing humidity levels around 25%. It’s still fairly dry, but an average of 27 millimeters of rain is expected, usually over six days. November is actually a great time to score a deal on tours, accommodation, and car rentals in Namibia as it’s low season and before the holidays. Though be prepared for rising temps.

Namibia Weather in December

The final month of the year is when the rain starts to arrive if it hasn’t already done so by the end of November. However it’s not torrential downpours, but quick and short storms so it liklely won’t affect your trip too much.

Temperatures also start to rise and it can get uncomfortably hot. Windhoek, for example, is a hot 30°C on average.

In the Kalahari Desert, temperatures range between 18°C and 33°C – it’s one of the hottest months for the semi-desert region. December sees rainfall of 60 millimeters in the Kalahari, but this can be an excellent time of year for catching sight of wildlife too, especially if you’re into bird watching. InKaokoland, the Kunene River floods which makes it a great time for a river cruise safari.

The hot temperatures mean many will flock to the coast. Swakopmund and Walvis Bay might get particularly busy as everyone tries to breathe in the cooler air. However it’s still a decent time to drive up and explore the Skeleton Coast if you are well prepared for the adventure.

Festivals in Namibia Throughout the Year

Winter Festivals in Namibia

It’s not “officially” winter in Namibia by the time Christmas rolls around, but it’s still very much celebrated in this African nation. The predominantly Christian country sees streets lit with festive lights, carols being sung, and busy shops – particularly in Windhoek and Walvis Bay. Christmas Day itself is spent with a visit to a church and a family meal. 

New Year is marked with celebrations like those of many other countries – with big parties, fireworks, and people dressed up for the occasion.

In February, it’s the start of the Bank Windhoek Arts Festival. This is the largest arts festival held in Namibia, and it runs all the way from February through to September. Expect an array of visual and performing arts in various venues throughout the city.

Spring Festivals in Namibia

During March, the Enjando Street Festival, also known as Mbapira, takes place across two days in the center of Windhoek. The event attracts partygoers from across the country for an extravaganza of colorful costumes, music, and dancing. 

On 21 March, Namibia celebrates Independence Day, commemorating its independence from South Africa back in 1990. This is an important event for the nation, celebrating its sovereignty with parades and sports events, as well as recollections of the (fairly recent) day itself.

Established by German immigrants in 1953, the Windhoek Karneval (aka WIKA) is held every year sometime in April. It’s a must-see event – you can expect much pageantry and festivities, all culminating in the Royal Ball.

May is significant as it marks Namibia’s school holidays. There are also quite a few events during May. For example, the Wild Cinema Festival is a fairly new festival in Namibia, and celebrates international and local films with screenings and an awards ceremony. May 25 is Africa Day, a continent-wide festival commemorating the founding of the African Union.

Summer Festivals in Namibia

Summer is a busy time for international tourists in Namibia. One festival that is a must-visit is Maherero Day. Held across the weekend closest to August 26, it’s one of the biggest festivals in Namibia and a great time to see traditional outfits, as the people of Okahandja commemorate important chiefs killed in past wars.

Fall Festivals in Namibia

Gams Arts Festival is the biggest arts festival in Windhoek. Taking place every September, you can expect good food, as well as performances from poets, musicians, and dancers. For more art, head to Omaruru – this Artists Trail has been taking place over three days in September since 2007.

For one of the more down-to-earth festivals in Namibia, be sure to check out the Windhoek Show. Falling sometime in late September or early October, it’s a celebration of agriculture and industry with roots dating back to 1899. It attracts around 100,000 visitors each year.

One of the more famous legacies of German colonialism is Windhoek’s very own Oktoberfest, which is one of the best things to do in Namibia around this time. Taking place in the last week of October, it’s a time when international visitors and locals alike enjoy beer-drinking, lederhosen, and oom-pah bands.

When is the Overall Best Time to Visit Namibia?

Namibia’s winter is the best time to visit as it’s the dry season. This generally starts in May and is best between July and October. However this is high season in Namibia so prices will be at their highest and you will have to book in advance. Crowds won’t be too bad with the exception of Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, and Etosha.

When is the Cheapest Time to Visit Namibia?

Namibia’s summer season, which is their low season, and wet season is the cheapest time to visit Namibia. You’ll find the best prices from December to April (outside of the holidays).

When is the Best Time to Visit Namibia for a Honeymoon?

The best time to visit Namibia for your honeymoon is mid to late June. Right before the high season is in full swing, the weather is still glorious.

When is the Worst Time to Visit Namibia?

Rain will fall from late November to February. It will also be very hot. However, the scenery is greener after the rains, especially around the Caprivi Strop. While the rain is typically short-lived in spurts and shouldn’t affect your trip too much, it’s not a great time to visit Namibia for a safari. The more rain there is, the fewer animals travel to the watering holes, making it harder to spot them. However, you may get a chance to spot a few newborn safari animals!

Quick Namibia Travel Tips

• Languages Spoken: There are nine major indigenous languages, including various San languages. The most popular native language is Oshiwambo. English, German, and Afrikaans are all widely spoken as well.
• Capital: Windhoek. (Pronounced WIND HOOK)
• Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD) On par with the South African Rand.
• Visa: Many visitors can enter Namibia visa-free for 90 days. Check with your specific embassy.
• What to Pack: Lightweight khaki clothing. A Safari hat. A good pair of boots and at least one jacket. See our full Africa packing list.
• Stay Connected: MTN and TN Mobile are the main service providers. Read more about the internet here. 

Book A Safari in Namibia

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to choose your best itinerary. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

Read more about Namibia

• A Namibian Road Trip: Our Itinerary Across the Namib Desert
• 15 Namibia Travel Tips to Know Before You Go
• The Ideal Northern Namibia Road Trip Route
• The Perfect Southern Namibia Drive Itinerary
• Namibia Photography: Exploring the Country’s Natural Beauty
• Experiencing Wolwedans Dunes Lodge and More in Namibia

When we arrived in Namibia for our road trip we had come with our preconceived notions, but we were not prepared. It is a land of inhospitable beauty and solitude. If you’re looking for some headspace then Namibia is where you’ll find it.

A Namibia road trip is truly surreal. With a population of only two million mostly living in the capital city, the 34th largest nation in the world has some desolate regions. However, despite being sparsely populated Namibia is well developed for an African Nation and can be easy to travel.

It’s been described to us as “Africa for beginners,” or “Africa light,” and since we had little time to plan and it was the first country we drove through on our journey to Kenya. Here’s all the best places to stop on a Namibia road trip!

The Ultimate Namibia Road Trip Itinerary

Fish River Canyon, Namibia

Fish River Canyon is a good starting point on your Namibia road trip if you are coming from South Africa. The canyon is located about three hours from the Noordoewer border post; however, we wouldn’t cross the border late in the day. The road between the border and the canyon is desolate, turns to dirt, and has no street lights – welcome to Namibia.

The canyon is the second largest canyon on earth. It costs 80 NAD for foreigners to enter the area around the canyon, but the price is well worth the impressive view.

One of the best viewing points is from the Hobas viewpoint. We would recommend grabbing some cold Windhoek beers at the entrance gate and enjoying the Canyon at another viewpoint away from the crowds. It’s possible to join a hiking trip through the canyon and see the canyon from a different point of view.

However, these hiking permits are only issued between May and September as the Namibian heat gets intense in the summer, and flash flooding is a threat. We spent three days in the area, but if we were to do it over we think one day and two nights camping in the area is ideal.

Stay at Gondwana Canyon Village

We suggest camping under the impressive Namibian night sky. Gondwana’s Canyon Road campsites are great and they have one of the only restaurants and fuel stations in the area. The NWR has campsites on offer, but they looked like a lesser value compared to the Canyon Road campsites. The second option is Ai Ais a hot spring campsite.

Luderitz, Namibia

Luderitz may be one of the strangest towns we have ever set foot in and should be on everyone’s Namibia road trip itinerary The German town is nestled between the turbulent Atlantic Ocean and the massive sand dunes of the Namib desert.

When we made it to Luderitz it didn’t even feel like we were in Africa anymore, more like another planet. German architecture, beerhouses, and street signs such as Bismark dominate the town. The vibe of the whole town is wonderfully strange, like something out of the twilight zone.

The main site 10 kilometers outside of Luderitz is Kolmanskop. Kolmanskop is an old abandoned mining town that is being swallowed by the desert. Kolmanskop rose to tourism fame when Nat Geo featured this famous photo.

Ever since tourists flock to check to go snap happy at the ghost town. You need a permit to enter Kolmanskop which can be purchased at the gate day of. Permits cost 75 NAD and include a tour that runs every day at 9:30 am. The tour lasts about an hour, but we would recommend waiting a few hours till the crowds die down to get photos.

On the B4 140km outside of Luderitz is the tiny mountains town of Aus. This is where you can see the last wild horses of Garub. They aren’t so wild at the moment as people are having to feed them during the drought to keep them alive. They are still incredible to see and appreciate how these horses survive in the middle of nowhere.

Airbnb in Luderitz

I would recommend an Airbnb in Luderitz and grabbing some coffee and oysters at the Diaz Coffee Shop. There are a few small guesthouses and one rather harsh looking campsite. However, if you have time Luderitz is well worth a stop on your Namibia road trip.

Sossusvlei and Deadvlei

No visit to Namibia is complete without seeing the highest sand dunes in the world. A stop in Sossusvlei is on most travelers’ Namibian itinerary and for good reason. The red dunes are best seen in the morning light and in my opinion if you arrive anytime between 8:30 and 4:00 you are wasting your time (especially if you cherish photography). The sand gets almost too hot to walk on and depending on the season you may be sweating before you exit the car.

The only way to be the first at the dunes is if you stay at the Seriesm Campsite. Guests staying inside this gate get the opportunity to head to the dunes at 5:15, and then it’s a mad dash to beat the sun. Staying outside the gates is also an option, but you will have to wait until 6:15  when the gate opens – hence missing the sunrise.

Dune 45 is the highest dune in the park and is a popular place to watch the sunrise at. However, it can get crowded with overlanders so if you have your own vehicle I would venture a bit further to find a spot all to yourself.

After sunrise continues on to Deadvlei. Vlei is the Afrikaans word for “marsh” and that’s exactly what Deadvlei is – a dead marsh. You will 100% need a 4×4 to get to Deadvlei, but if you don’t have one there is a spot to park and guides will take you in for a small fee. I would recommend getting to Sossusvlei at sunrise and wandering around the dunes and Deadvlei for a few hours. By noon you will be ready to leave as it is HOT – trust me.

Consider Staying at Wolwedans Collection

The Sesriem campsite is decent, but do not let them put you in the “overflow” space. They have a full restaurant and bar there but if you want to stay cheap there is a small (and I mean small) grocery store across from the campsite. If you are on a higher budget Wolwedans is divine and a good place to relax on any Namibian road trip.

Swakopmund and walvis bay

Almost every adventurer hits up Swakopmund on their Namibia road trip. Swakopmund is the ultimate destination for adventure in Namibia. You can entertain yourself with just about anything in Swakopmund – sandboarding, four-wheelers, paragliding, or skydiving all on and over the Namib desert is great fun. Swakopmund is also one of the larger cities in Namibia so you will be able to get almost anything you need here to continue the road trip.

We enjoyed hanging out, sipping coffees, and catching up with other travelers in Swakopmund. It’s also worth heading to Swakop’s sister city of Walvis Bay to see the greater and lesser flamingos. The flamingos eat, sleep, and live on the coast of Walvis Bay all year long so you’re guaranteed to get excellent sightings of the famous pink birds.

Swakopmund Plaza Hotel

I would recommend an Airbnb or staying at the Swakopmund Plaza Hotel. Don’t miss a coffee at Slowtown coffee roasters and make sure to grab a pizza at the Secret Garden Bistro. You can check out some tips and read more about getting an Airbnb coupon code here. 

The Skeleton Coast

If you have a fully sufficient 4×4 then a trip up the Skeleton Coast completes any itinerary. The Skeleton Coast sounds so dreary because it is. The term was coined from the unforgiving nature of the coast and the endless ships it brings to their demise. If you keep driving north from Swakopmund you will eventually get into no man’s land. The road leads all the way North to Torra Bay, but keep in mind that you are pretty much self-sufficient up here.

Because of time, we drove as far north as the Cape Cross Seal Colony. We debated about burning the fuel to go to Cape Cross, but once we left we determined the experience was well worth it. Thousands and thousands of seals call Cape Cross home and it is an impressive sight to see in Namibia. Just make sure to bring some nose plugs – it’s the smelliest place in Namibia!

Camp on The Skeleton Coast

You’re on your own on the coast. Be fully equipped to camp, there is a campsite at Terrace Bay.

Etosha National Park

We had some great days of safaris in Etosha National Park. This is easily Namibia’s best park to spot a variety of wildlife. Etosha is easy to self-drive in any type of vehicle so we wouldn’t recommend paying for a game viewer and guide here. There are plenty of great watering holes where the animals come to drink. Almost every time we stopped at a watering hole some Lion King magic was going down.

Etosha is extremely popular during school holidays and it is recommended to book accommodation in advance. Roads will get slightly more congested, but you’re still in one of the least populated countries on the planet so it won’t be anything like Kruger National Park in South Africa.

During the winter Etosha is dry, so chances of great sightings are common. We managed to see lions, hyenas, giraffes, rhinos, ostriches, and just about everything else besides the elusive leopard roaming about.  Perhaps, the best part of Etosha is the admission fee. It cost just 80 NAD to enter one of the best wildlife parks in the world – that’s a bargain in Africa!

Stay at Gondwana Etosha Safari Camp

We would recommend staying at the Gondwana Etosha Safari Camp near the Anderson Gate or Onguma Campsite near Namutoni Gate. Both serve up fabulous food under the Namib night sky.

The Caprivi Strip

We made our way to greener pastures after Etosha. Literally up North in the Caprivi Strip, the landscape changes drastically. Long gone is the dry desert air and endless sand that makes up so much of Namibia. The Caprivi Strip encompasses the Okavango River, Chobe River, and Zambezi River. We have to admit after three weeks in mainland Namibia it felt great to see a living tree again.

We also felt like we were once again in Africa once we got to the town of Rundu and continued onward. Not only was the area green, but we found fewer Germans and Afrikaans people, instead we found people, villages, and that general lively soul that makes up so much of the continent.

This was Tasha’s favorite part of Namibia. Just relaxing along the river watching the hippos and spotting the birdlife is magical in the Caprivi Strip. A popular thing to do on the Okavango is to take a houseboat out with a couple of sundowners and watch the sunlight up the African sky.

Consider Hakusembe Lodge

Hakusembe is a great lodge just outside of Rundu. Right next to the lodge is a campsite along the river. There is a swimming pool, lounge, and lastly a living museum nearby where you can learn about the local culture. You can dine here while watching Angola on the other side of the Okavango.

From Rundu we made our way to the Botswana border, camping at various places and enjoying the Caprivi strip along the way.

A Namibia road trip is such an amazing adventure. There are rental companies in Namibia and South Africa that specialize in equipped 4x4s designed for camping.

Petrol is relevantly cheap in Namibia at 11 NAD/Liter. Other great places to visit are the northwest where the Himba live, Spitzkoppe, and Damaraland.  Read on for travel tips to know before Namibia.

Click here for the full Namibia road trip map

Book A Safari in Namibia

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to choose your best itinerary. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

Namibia is like another planet. We discuss returning to many countries, but Namibia will be a reality. In addition, it’s one of Africa’s easiest and safest countries to travel around. Namibia will enchant and leave you yearning to explore more. This is surprising, as the country is empty and the population is sparse, but don’t be deceived.

Things to Do in Namibia

Venture into Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei is the one place in Namibia everyone has seen a photo of. It’s one of Namibia’s main points of interest. The dunes in this section of the Namib Desert are considered the highest on earth, but it is hard to describe the sheer scale in writing.

Despite being Namibia’s number one tourist attraction, one can still find complete solitude due to the sheer size of the dunes and desert here. At 325 meters, the dunes tower over visitors, with high winds sculpting a changing landscape. Seeing these dunes in person will take your breath away. If you can only do one thing in Namibia, I recommend heading to Sossusvlei.

The best time to visit Sossusvlei is at sunrise or sunset—go in the middle of the day, and you’ll be drenched in sweat in minutes. At sunrise and sunset, the tone of the desert is dramatic. It is a wonderful time for a photo opportunity, but be warned: You have to act fast, as the sun is quick.

Watch the Sunrise on Dune 45

As the Namib-Naukluft gates open before sunrise, visitors make a mad dash for Dune 45. It’s not the highest dune in the Namib Desert, but it is the most popular because of its location right off the road. It is often one of the most popular things to do in Namibia. Dune 45 rises over 80 meters and is composed of 5-million-year-old sand blown in from the Orange River and the Kalahari Desert.

Dune 45 is the most popular spot to watch the sun come up over Sossusvlei. It gets popular as backpackers and independent travelers make their way here every morning for the “gram.” To make it into Sossusvlei before sunrise, you must stay overnight in the park’s campsite.

Campers are the only ones with access to Sossusvlei before the official gate opens. You will need to be up well before the crack of dawn to be among the first to the dunes and climb them. We woke up at 4 a.m., broke camp, and drove like hell to see the sunrise.

An alternative way to watch the sunrise is to drive past the groups at Dune 45 and find your own dune to climb. That way, you get the beautiful red dunes and the sunrise all to yourself. Don’t worry – there are plenty of dunes to go around!

Walk Across Deadvlei

Vlei is the Afrikaans word for “marsh” and that’s exactly what Deadvlei is – a dead marsh. Trees in this white clay pan are long dead after drought and climate change cut them off from water long ago. Nevertheless, they are still beautiful. The pan is surrounded by some of the tallest and most impressive dunes in the world, making this a photogenic spot.

The road to Deadvlei is a deep sand, and a 4×4 vehicle is required. If you arrive without a 4×4, the road ends in a parking lot where guides will drive you in for a small fee. It’s best to arrive at Deadvlei before 10 am if possible, as the area gets unbearably hot late in the day. Deadvlei and Sossusvlei are nearby to each other. My advice would be to head to Deadvlei right after watching the sunrise over Sossusvlei before the sun gets scorching hot.

Drink at the Down Corruption Bar

One of the more unusual things to do in Namibia is to have a sundowner at the Down Corruption Bar. During the Apartheid era, laws in Namibia prohibited native Africans from entering bars or liquor stores. So, “shebeens,” or illicit pubs, sprang up in many townships to serve the disenfranchised.

Shebeens became an important part of not just Namibia but many African communities. They were well known for lively parties and live music and as a gathering place for political organizing. This tradition inspires the name, decor, and ambiance of this popular and worthwhile bar outside Etosha National Park.

Having a drink in this bar is one of the best unknown things to do in Namibia. This bar is located inside Gondwana’s Etosha Safari Camp, an affordable place to stay while visiting Etosha. You don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the bar. It’s also a restaurant and museum that serves cold drinks, good food, live music, and plenty of historical memorabilia for all.

Walk Through the Quiver Tree Forest

14 km north-east of the town of Keetmanshoop is the Quiver Tree Forest. The unique quiver tree can be found throughout Namibia, but the Quiver Tree Forest boasts 300 of these iconic Namibian trees in a very small area making it the perfect and guaranteed spot to see the trees. Be sure to watch out for the quivers, as they have poison-tipped arrows. Although the poison part makes us quiver at the thought, the trees are considered good luck for those who worship and nurture them.

Check out Kaokoland

If you’re still wondering what to see in Namibia you need to visit Kaokoland. The few visitors that make it to this region of Namibia are rewarded by proximity to desert elephants, giraffes, lions, and the Himba people. Kaokoland is one of the last wilderness areas in Southern Africa, but visiting here doesn’t come easy. You’ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle and have to be self-sufficient on your journey north. 

Roads here are a limited patchwork of dry riverbeds and rough paths that are more often trails or dry riverbeds. Kaokoland is also where the Himba people live. Yes, the real Himba, not the ones available to tourists for photos at the popular hotspots. The Himba are considered to be one of the last tribes of Africa living as they have for centuries with little use of modern technology. The Himba paint their skin in a distinct ochre to protect themselves from the harsh Namibian sun and are frequently the subject of photographers who come from all over the world to capture their images.

Visit Damaraland

If you’re wondering what Namibia is famous for and are an avid Planet Earth watcher, you may have heard of Damaraland. Damaraland is one of the most picturesque areas of Namibia, and you can find all the great animals in Africa. In Damaraland, granite formations mix with ancient riverbeds, grasslands, and mountains and the beauty is so great you may want to pinch yourself to ensure you’re not dreaming.

Damaraland is similar to Kaokoland, and together they form an area known as the Kaokoveld. The chief difference between the two areas is the ease and accessibility. In Damaraland, there are a number of roads, campsites, and lodges that make travel much easier.

Watch Life On the Kavango River

The Kavango River flows from Angola through Namibia and forms the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The rich river is a vital source of water for all three countries and the wildlife that calls it home. The river marks the beginning of the Caprivi strip in Namibia, making a swift departure from the rest of the arid country. Here, you can view a wide range of birds, hippos, and crocodiles while villagers paddle downstream in mokoros and carefully bathe along the banks.

Days can be spent relaxing along the river and watching, or you can choose to join the flow: Boat cruises are super-popular in the region and best enjoyed at sunset. To linger longer, reserve a luxury chalet or floating bungalow at the Hakusembe River Lodge, located outside the Namibian outpost of Rundu and across the river from Angola.

Day Trip to the Luderitz Peninsula

One of the best places to go in Namibia is Luderitz. Make a day trip to this peninsula located outside the town of Luderitz. Here, you will be treated to the company of a plethora of colorful local wildlife, including brown hyenas, oryx, and flamingos. Diaz Point features a lighthouse and cafe along with a replica cross that was erected by the Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias in 1488, after making it to the Cape of Good Hope.

The largest penguin colony in Namibia is nearby on Halifax Island and is visible from here if you have some binoculars. The marine life in the surrounding waters around the Luderitz Peninsula includes whales and dolphins. Travelers have a good chance of spotting them from the beach, or they can join a wildlife cruise.

Safari in Bwabwata National Park

Unlike most of Namibia, The Bwabwata National Park, located in the Caprivi Strip, is fertile and green thanks to the rainfall and the Cunbango River. This river forms the famed Okavango Delta in Botswana. Bwabwata is known as the “people’s park” because it is home to both wildlife and several villages.

The park’s non-human population has increased in recent years thanks to a progressive restocking and relocation program of rare species such as the red lechwe and sitatunga. This focus on becoming an ecotourism destination has benefitted humans by increasing business and creating new jobs for the local population.

The park is a route for migrating elephants traveling from Southern Angola to Chobe National Park in Botswana. Known collectively as the KAZA region, five countries collaborate to protect the majestic pachyderms’ seasonal path: Namibia, Botswana, Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Stay at the Gondwana Canyon Village

The Gondwana Canyon Village features hiking in a 127,000-hectare reserve, which once belonged to local farmers until the Gondwana Collection purchased the land. Visitors can enjoy wandering through the interesting geology and getting as up-close as they allow with animals such as oryx, zebra, and jackals.

The local lodge here was set up in the form of a small village oasis in the desert, accessible from the main road. We stayed here and enjoyed venturing around the desert before returning to a comfortable lodge. For those seeking to relax and cool off, the lodge features one of the only pools in Southern Namibia—the perfect place to unwind amidst beautiful desert scenery.

Make a Stop In Solitaire

One of the top tourist activities in Namibia is Solitaire. The small settlement of Solitaire is located in the middle of the desert. Almost every traveler in Namibia makes a stop at this watering hole at the crossroads of C14 and C24, two major routes connecting Walvis Bay and the Sossusvlei section of the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

Solitaire has the only gas station for miles, plus a repair shop, post office, bakery, and small general store. The town is decorated with the decaying ruins of old cars from various decades, which many travelers take as a chance to get a picture-perfect “Namibia” photo.

See the Flamingos at Walvis Bay

One of my favorite activities in Namibia is Walvis Bay. Walvis Bay is often overshadowed by the nearby city of Swakopmund. But the 30-minute drive from Swakopmund is worthwhile. Walvis Bay is the country’s chief port town. The waters here are rich in plankton, drawing in many southern right whales each year.

While many birds and sea animals make the area their home, Walvis Bay is known for hosting an estimated 35,000 flamingos. You can’t miss them as you drive along the coast, and I recommend pulling over to observe them for a while.

If you keep driving, you’ll hit the tip of Pelican Point, a natural sand spit that stretches out into the ocean. Pelican Point gives visitors another chance to see more marine life. If you can’t find suitable accommodation in Swakopmund, try Walvis Bay!

Live in Luxury at Chobe Water Villas

On the Namibian side of the Chobe River are the luxurious Chobe Water Villas. These villas are located in the Kasika Conservancy at the eastern tip of the Zambezi Region and are set on stilts above the flowing Chobe River. All the balconies here look out onto the famous Chobe National Park and Sedudu Island in Botswana.

The food here is exceptional, and the hospitality is on point. For activities, guests can leave Namibia to head into Botswana’s Chobe National Park across the water. We loved a sunset cruise to get up close to elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, and hippos from the boat.

Wolwedans Dune Lodge

If images of towering red dunes, ancient rock formations, desert animals, sandstorms, and mysterious “fairy circles” are in your Namibian dreams, then the NamibRand Nature Reserve is where your dreams will become reality. This area is a 200,000-hectare non-profit private nature reserve in southwest Namibia. The focus of the reserve is the preservation and restoration of the Namibian land.

Wolwedans is one of the few lodges in this desert and is breathtaking. Waking up in a canvas tent while the sun rises over the desert is the best way to experience the area’s beauty and brings back great memories of Africa.

Wolwedans has been featured in countless travel publications and offers some of the best accommodations in Namibia, and Africa. It is the epitome of a classic African safari lodge. Focusing on sustainability, conservation, and high-end travel accommodations, the Wolwedans’ four main camps treat guests like royalty. Be prepared for lots of gin & tonics, wildlife, delicious meals, luxurious tents, and fiery sunsets. It’s not a cheap place to stay, but the experience is out of this world.

Watch the Sunset Over the Kalahari

Watching the sunset over the Kalahari Desert is a sensation to behold. 1.2 million square kilometers of deep-red-toned sand stretches across all of Southern Africa. Despite harsh conditions, the Kalahari hosts many animals that have adapted to the environment. Lions, gemsboks, meerkats, zebras, and cheetahs can all be found in the Kalahari.

Stand in Awe of The Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon on earth and is magnificent, to say the least. Despite its impressive size, few tourists make it to Southern Namibia to marvel at it. The canyon’s origin is the separation of the Gondwana supercontinent, an event that shaped much of the landscapes of Southern Africa today.

Most travelers take a relaxing approach and head to the canyon rim in the evening with some cold Windhoek Lagers to watch the sunset. Adventurous travelers can descend the 550 meters to the canyon floor for an active adventure.

This hiking option is only available a few months out of the year due to seasonal extreme heat and flash flooding. Should you accept the challenge and visit at the right time of year, the hike takes around five days and covers 88 kilometers of the canyon floor.

Learn about the Kavango people

Located outside Rundu and the neighboring Hakusembe lodge along the Okavango River lies the Mbunza Living Museum. Set up by the Living Culture Foundation, a Namibian nonprofit, the museum is both a school for traditional culture and a community-based business aimed at preserving the culture of the Kavango people, while providing an additional source of income for rural villagers.

You can spend a few hours or a whole day learning about the different aspects of the local culture. I promise you will be entertained and educated about rural Namibian life. There are many living museums around the country so be sure to see if any are nearby!

Find the Desert Horses of Aus

The tiny mountain town of Aus is set in a desert landscape 125 kilometers outside of Luderitz. This stop isn’t well known and won’t appear on many road trip itineraries, but it should. There isn’t much in Aus besides two campsites, a lodge, a petrol station, a restaurant, and a hotel. It is located along one of the few major roads in Namibia, the B4. The B4 is largely flat, but near Aus, the mountains rise up out of the desert. Catching sunrise or sunset here won’t be a disappointment.

In the neighboring area of Garub—itself nothing more than a wheel and water tower in the desert—visitors can find the feral horses of the desert. They are often thought to be the only feral horses in Africa. No one is quite certain where these 150 wild desert horses originated. These special horses have adapted to the harsh desert environment and are said to be able to go five days with little to no water.

When we were there, the horses looked quite skinny. The Gondwana staff told us that human intervention during severe droughts was necessary to save the species. Now, the Gondwana collection provides enough water and hay for the horses to survive.

Drive the Skeleton Coast

One of the most beautiful places in Namibia is the Skeleton Coast. Once referred to as the “Gate of Hell,” this stretch of coastline is one of the least hospitable places on earth. Along the drive, you won’t find much besides the remains of shipwrecks littered along the coast. The Skeleton Coast—once the moniker of the entire coast of Namibia—now describes the stretch north of the coastal town of Swakopmund.

There is no place quite on earth like the Skeleton Coast. While the sand dunes and vast ocean are breathtaking, the weather here is ferocious, as the heat from the desert whips up massive winds from the cool and wild Atlantic Ocean.

As you pass the last of crumbling fishing towns and reach the Skeleton Coast Gate with skull and crossbones, a sense of foreboding is inevitable. From the gate, drivers are on their own. There are no services available, so it’s important that you are self-sufficient if you travel here. That means a 4×4 vehicle, enough gasoline for your trip, food, water, and, god forbid, knowing how to change a tire.

Safari in Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is arguably one of the best national parks in Africa and one of the top places to visit in Namibia. However, many international travelers don’t venture or think of Namibia regarding safari, but they should. Etosha is filled with wildlife in the massive Etosha salt pan that can be seen from space.

We spent two days on safari here and saw rhinos, lions, hyenas, giraffes, jackals, and so much more. With scarce water throughout, the local animals are forced to congregate around a limited number of watering holes. You can sit by one of the many watering holes and watch the wildlife come in from kilometers away.

It’s one of the easiest parks in Africa to self-drive, as the roads aren’t in terrible shape, and the signage is good. The best part about Etosha, though? The price! At 80 NAD, Etosha National Park is the cheapest place in Africa for a safari. Seriously, we’ve been on safari in most of Africa’s best parks, and that price can’t be beaten.

Breathe in the Air at the Cape Cross Seal Reserve

Namibia’s largest seal colony can be seen (and smelled) at Cape Cross Seal Reserve. Although you may need nose plugs, seeing 100,000 floundering and wailing beasts is amazing. These fat sea mammals enjoy the full advantage of the nutrient-rich Atlantic Ocean here, with large concentrations of fish concentrated along the shoreline due to the famous Benguela Current.

This area is one of the few “stops” along the Skeleton Coast drive mentioned above, but it’s still close enough to Swakopmund for a day trip. Don’t forget to bring a camera and snap some photos of the seals, but be careful – they bite!

Check Out the Quirky Town of Luderitz

Luderitz may be one of the strangest cities/towns we have ever visited. Originally built by German settlers, Luderitz is nestled between the turbulent Atlantic Ocean and the massive dunes of the Namib desert. German architecture, beer houses, and marine life dominate the town. Piles of sand blow through the streets and fill the gutters.

The vibe is wonderfully strange, like something out of the twilight zone, stuck in time and almost forgotten, and any visit here may make you feel as if you’re in the twilight zone. Nevertheless, it is a real and working town in Namibia, and it is well worth exploring for a few days! Plus, it’s the gateway to the unmissable Kolmanskop!

Photograph the Ghost Town of Kolmanskop

In the early 1900s, a German railway worker found a diamond lying on the ground in the desert, and the rest is history. The town of Kolmanskop was quickly established and grew in size, and diamond mining in Namibia boomed.

Kolmanskop, despite being located in the middle of the Namib desert, exploited the diamond field at the turn of the century. The town was completely abandoned in the late 1950s, and now a ghost town sits in the sand dunes of the Namib Desert. In the 1980s, DeBeer turned the area into a museum, and now it is one of the most photographed spots in Namibia.

Daily tours provide information for visitors who want to learn about the area and take stunning photographs of the decaying, abandoned buildings in the sand. Seriously, it’s hard to get a bad photo at Kolmanskop! Same-day permits are required to enter Kolmanskop and can be purchased at the gate for 75 NAD, which includes an hour-long tour that starts at 9:30 am. Plan to stay longer and wait out the crowds to get the best photos.

Enjoy the Vibes in Swakopmund

Swakopmund is easily the hippest city in Namibia and the country’s tourism epicenter. It is a cool, beachside retreat that provides relief from the scorching hot desert and has long served the weary traveler. Since Namibia was once a German colony, you can find beer halls, plenty of bratwursts, and colorful wooden homes here.

You can also acquire almost anything you need to tackle the surrounding desert. The desert is never forgotten, though, as dunes surround the city and roll into the wild Atlantic Ocean. There are tons of things to do in Swakopmund, the ultimate destination for adventure in Namibia. Entertain yourself with sandboarding, four-wheeling, paragliding, or skydiving—all on or over the Namib desert.

Spend a Night in Spitzkoppe

Aside from the stunning dunes of the Namib Desert, Spitzkoppe may be the most photographed landmark in Namibia. An imposing granite rock formation that reaches a height of 1,728m, its summit’s shape has earned it the nickname “The Matterhorn of Africa.”

The unique geology and beautiful views have attracted humankind throughout history, and so a large number of bushmen paintings can be found on the granite mountain. Spitskoppe is a fantastic destination for hiking, climbing, and photography. Visitors may make it a day trip from nearby Swakopmund or stay closer to the mountain at a small community-run desert campsite.

Try your Hand at Sandboarding

Have you ever tried snowboarding? Now, consider swapping out that fresh powdery snow for some harsh desert sand and riding it. That is sandboarding in a nutshell. Sandboarding is one of the most popular things to do in Swakopmund, as just outside town lies the “perfect” dune for sandboarding. With six different faces and a towering height of 100 meters, visitors can have an adrenaline-filled day shredding the sand.

See Epupa Falls

Perched on the border of Angola and Namibia, in the region of Kaokoland, these magnificent waterfalls are a series of cascades that drop 60 meters over 1.5 kilometers. At their most impressive point, the falls span across 500 meters before dropping and creating a beautiful mist.

The whole area up to and around the falls is unspoiled wilderness with baobabs, wild fig trees, and makhani palms lining the river and road. The falls are easy to reach in all seasons. A high clearance vehicle is recommended but not required unless you’re traveling in the wet season, it’s advisable to come in a 4×4. However, you will need to be self sufficient and equipped for camping with plenty food and fuel.

Have a Braai!

Like South Africa, the braai culture is strong in Namibia. Braai is Afrikaans for “grilled meat,” and that’s what a braai is all about—a bunch of grilled meat. “Having a braai” means someone is having a social gathering similar to a BBQ. We’ve become quite accustomed to the typical Southern African braai now.

Braai can consist of any meat, but the two most common items are beef and a spiced sausage called boerewors. This is typically served with “pap” Afrikaans for maize porridge and a relish of green vegetables cooked down. In general, Namibia is a very meaty country, and vegetarians may find it hard to find the food they want in this desert country – but of course, it can be done!

Go on a Desert Bush Walk

We love going on bush walks around Africa as they allow us to explore the beauty of Africa up close. It’s not the time to see big game (although it’s possible) but to explore the intricacy of the desert eco system. You can learn about plants and insects of the desert, such as the sand snake or toktokkie. It’s also when you can see snakes, reptiles, and droppings and analyze footprints without the nuisance of a loud engine. You’ll want some good boots and a hat for this activity.

Quick Tips On Travel in Namibia

• Capital: Windhoek
• Currency: The Namibian Dollar, equivalent to the South African Rand
• We found the land borders hassle-free for self-drivers.
• Self-driving is the most popular way to get around Namibia. The distances are great, and petrol stations are scarce, so buy a map and plan.
• We could get around with credit cards for most of our time in Namibia.
• Most roads around the country are in very good condition. However, expect corrugation and some bumpy rides.
• Visitors will be able to get by fine with English in Namibia. The majority of Namibians are exceptionally friendly people.
• We experienced no bribes, hassles, or police corruption during our month in the country.
• We felt safe traveling in Namibia but did not go to Windhoek as we felt no need to see another big city.
• Visitors can find about anything they need in Swakopmund and Windhoek. However, don’t expect common amenities in many of the other towns.
• MTC and TN Mobile are the two main cell phone providers. We received 1.3 GB of data promotion for $N40 for one week with TN Mobile Jiva Surfer. Cell phone service was only available in towns and cities.
• We felt that Namibia had a very “Western” feeling and felt very much like South Africa. It wasn’t until we got into Damaraland and the Caprivi region that we felt we were truly back in “Africa.”
• Driving at night in Namibia is not recommended, especially in the north, where cattle, goats, and donkeys graze on the roads.

Book A Safari in Namibia

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to choose your best itinerary. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

Our last post detailing travel in Southern Namibia ended at the Tropic of Capricorn. So, that is where we will pick back up. We arrived in Walvis Bay, Namibia in dire need of an escape from the desert heat. We were about two weeks into our month-long road trip through Namibia with our trusty Land Cruiser, Charlie.

We had already driven around Fish River Canyon, through the sands of the Kalahari, and watched the sunrise over the highest sand dunes on earth. Temperatures in the desert had soared to 40+ Celsius. So, by the time we drove into a gloomy Walvis Bay we were relieved.

A Northern Namibia Road Trip Route

The Namibian Coast

Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay gets looked over in comparison to its sister, Swakopmund, and for good reason. That’s not to say that Walvis Bay is a bad place. In fact, it may be the best option around; however, it all depends on what you’re looking for.

The city of Walvis Bay on the coast of Namibia is the country’s chief port and home to around 35,000 flamingos. No, that’s not an overestimate. 35,000 greater and lesser flamingos roam the shores of Walvis Bay. There is also the fascinating Pelican Point, a natural sand spit that stretches out into the ocean.

On arrival, we were greeted with a windy 17C. It was chilly and therefore we were happy. We were able to put on our jackets one last time before we faced the heat and humidity of Africa. In Walvis Bay, we stayed at a lovely Airbnb. For us, the stopover was needed to unwind and catch up on the blog.

Our last week in Cape Town was spent running around attempting to prepare for #HashtagAfrica. More than a few things fell through the cracks like maintaining poor Charlie. Our Land Cruiser was in dire need of new tires and some serious TLC. We bought some new tires at $3,400 NAD a piece and then cried after we looked at our recent credit card transactions.

We took the time to explore Pelican Point with our new tires. We found massive pelicans, seals, and plenty of more flamingos while driving around the salt flats that compose Pelican Point. Looking back on the weathered

Swakopmund

Traveling through Southern Africa there are a number of stops that are on every tour operator’s schedule. Places like Swakopmund, Vic Falls, and Cape Town. Swakopmund is the city in Namibia to be seen at. It is a hip German town right along the Skeleton Coast. The city seems to hum with Namibians and tourists alike but still retains its sleepy coastal charm.

“Swakop” makes for a great base to stop and stock up on supplies, grab a cappuccino, and gather your bearings before you leave “comfortable” Africa. You can find old-school German colonial architecture that looks out of place and like much of Namibia it is chock full of German tourists. There seems to be a serious draw for Germans to head to Namibia to live out their former colonial past and I can see the big draw, especially for Swakopmund. The town has lots of old-styled German homes, a waterfront, pier, hip coffee shops, a craft brewery, and a number of hotels. The main draws for tourists to the town are the various activities on offer. Everything from skydiving to sand boarding, and quad biking are available for a very reasonable price.

Things to check out:

• Slowtown Coffee Roasters: We’ve bought a kilo of their delicious roast and still have it in the back of our truck now. They also have tasty baked goods.

Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast goes in traveler’s book as one of the strangest places on earth. It’s similar to Death Valley or the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia. When the Portuguese sailors first found the deadly stretch of coastline they referred to it as As Areias do Inferno.

The translation from Portuguese is “The Sands of Hell.” It’s little hard to understand why. The Skeleton Coast holds undeniable tragic beauty. Massive sand dunes raise up from the beach, gusts of cold wind screech across the earth, and quite literally skeletons from animals, ships, and man dot the coastline. A shipwreck here back in the day meant almost certain death.

Despite being one of the most inhospitable places on earth for man there are species that flourish here. The Cape Cross seal colony is a site to be seen in Namibia. Along the rocky point, hundreds of thousands of fur seals flourish. We arrived in mid-November right when the seals give birth to pups.

The sound of thousands of seals barking and pups crying was deafening and amazing. The most prominent thing that literally hits visitors in the face is the smell. Anyone that has been close to a seal before can speak to attest to the odor. That odor times one thousand and it will make you almost gag. Being genius travelers, we are used small pieces of cotton with rose geranium oil on them to cancel out the smell. Worked like a charm.

To access the Skeleton Coast one must head up the C34 from Swakopmund. The cold Benguela Current creates some of the oddest weather conditions on earth in the desert environment. The coast is windy, cold, and often blanketed in dense fog. It is a large reason for the sheer number of shipwrecks that now lie along the coast. You can drive all the way up to Torra Bay in the North where you can find a campsite popular with fishermen who come for an awesome catch. Not to mention the famous marine life that can spotted from the shores such as killer whales, humpback whales, and benguela dolphins.

Tips For Driving the Skeleton Coast

• The Southern half is accessible to self drivers via the C34. It is a salt road in very good condition, feels like driving on pavement.
• Camping is available at Terrance Bay Resort 30 miles North of Torra Bay.
• The park is only accessible during daylight hours at the two entry gates. Ugab river in the South and Springbokwasser in the North.
• Buy a current map with the petrol stations and know the range on your vehicle. Our vehicle has a range of around 700km+. So we were fine to push through the entirety of the park.

Crossing Namibia

Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is arguably one of the best national parks of Namibia, but it comes with a catch. It can be dusty and unbearable hot for an endless amount of miles. See when the best time to visit Etosha is so you aren’t always scorching hot.

This creates incredible animal concentration at the water holes as zebra, giraffe, hyenas, and all walks of life come from kilometers away in order to have a sip of water. This is what draws wildlife enthusiasts to Etosha. Instead of spending hours staring at the bush in search of an animal visitors park their vehicle on a watering hole and watch the wildlife come to them. All of Africa’s finest are all on display here and there are plenty to be seen.

Our arrival into Etosha came after driving up the Skeleton Coast and through Damaraland. The stench of the seals traveled with us soaking into our clothes, hair, and skin. Our priority was bathing. I would say we found the most suiting places to wash the smell off. Our room at Gondwana’s Etosha Safari Camp included an awesome elephant butt shower.

After a much-needed shower, we headed to the main lodge decorated in the style of the famous township in Namibia called Oshebeena. The lodge has a boma with live music every night and entertainment. This “township” lodge has an awesome vibe with a laid-back (and cheap) bar, billiards table, curios shop, and pool area.

We spent the next day driving through the park. The road conditions are good and water is, unfortunately, scarce. The animals misfortune does make for some terrific sightings, however. The weather in true Namibian fashion was HOT! My midday both us and the animals had to go into hiding. We managed to make our way to the Halali camp with in the middle of the park to have lunch. The camp also has a swimming pool, which we would suggest you have your swim suits with you to take advantage of. Our first leg in the park was largely uneventful besides one wonderful sighting at a watering hole filled with springbok, zebras, ostrich, and then watched as a tower of giraffe approached the watering hole to take a drink.

After spending our afternoon waiting out the heat we set back out for the Etosha Safari Camp at the Southern gate. The second half of our day proved to be much more successful. We stumbled across a rhino who spent her time walking back and forth along the road not paying us mind at all!

Driving across the park takes time as with many national parks in Africa. This is due to the prevalence of wildlife, speed limits, and track conditions. Although Etosha park has well maintained gravel roads some of the roads are badly corrugated.  We did see sedans making their way across the park, but would recommend traveling with a larger vehicle.

As the evening fell on Etosha and our time was coming to an end we made our way to one last watering hole. It just happened to be our best sighting of the day. We found a lion sitting on a fresh kill while a black backed jackal and two hyenas circled around waiting for the scraps.

We watched the animals until the 6 p.m. closing time and returned back to the safari camp hungry and tired. After a full meal and good nights sleep, we moved to check out the Etosha Safari Lodge, just two minutes down the road, for a change of pace. We had plans to drive across the park the next days and spend two days exploring Etosha from the Eastern side. With this in mind, we chose to relax at the gorgeous lodge and take in some long days by the pool watching the giraffes in the distance. Of course, we always had a cool gin and tonic in hand.

Each room here had its own porch that looked out towards the national park. While sipping our drinks from the main deck we spotted a herd of Zebra and a tower of giraffe. As the night came to an end we watched a thunderstorm roll over Etosha from the lodge’s elevated deck.

We’re certain that the park has some well managed campsites, but after our first experience in Sossusvlei, we decided to opt outside of the park and spend two lovely days at the Onguma campsite at the Eastern gate. It takes roughly four hours to drive from the Southern gate to the Eastern gate. Our second day of driving in Etosha was not nearly as eventful as our first. We saw a few zebra, springbok, wildebeest, and giraffe.

The campsites at Onguma will spoil campers. Each campsite comes with a private shower, bathroom, kitchen area, laundry sink, power points, and plenty of shade. Combine that with a pool, shop, WiFi, and a nice lounge overlooking a watering hole. It is also a private concession and campers can take a game drive through their park that has large game including predators. Not only did we find the campsites here way nicer, but they were much cheaper than the park campsites too!

Etosha National Park Facts

“Etosha” means “big white place,” which refers to the Etosha Salt Pan. The park covers an area of roughly 20,000 square kilometers. It is the second largest national park in Namibia. Etosha National Park is home 114 mammal species. All accommodation within the park is managed by Namibian Wildlife Resorts – a Namibian government run company. The center pan that park derives its name from is 4731km² large. Click here for maps of Etosha National Park.

Etosha Park Entrance Times

• Open: Sunrise – changed on a weekly basis
• Close: Sunset – changed on a weekly basis

Park Entry Fees (enjoy these they are some of the cheapest in Africa):

• Namibian: N$30.00 per day
• SADC: N$60.00 per day
• International: N$80.00 per day

Campsites outside of the park

We are not the biggest fan of the Namibian National parks campsites. They are good campsites, but we found a better value at the private camps.

• To the South at the Anderson Gate we recommend the Gondwana Collection’s Campsite. (Cost: N$160.00per person)
• To the East at Von Lindequist Gate we recommend the Onguma Campsite (Cost: N$ 220.00 per person)

The Caprivi Strip

The Caprivi Strip feels like another world in comparison to the rest of Namibia. The small strip of Namibia is at a higher elevation and traveling to the region you cross the Otjihavera Mountains and climb a gradual hill for what feels like forever. We found several relaxing places to stop on our exploration of the Caprivi Strip.

Our first being along the banks of the Okavango river where we were able to get a taste of the local culture and spot a hippo or two. Afterward, we had a frustrating day getting our car worked on in Rundu before booking it across the Caprivi to Namushasha.

Okavango River

The Okavango River plays a pretty big role in tourism in Africa, but we’ll touch on that later. Our first experience of the famous river was in Namibia just outside of the large town of Rundu. Here we stayed at the Hakusembe Lodge. Unlike many rivers the Okavango river does not flow out towards the sea, but instead inland towards the center of the continent. Eventually it dumps out into the Okavango Delta, an incredible wildlife region.

When we entered the Caprivi strip we finally felt we had arrived at the Africa pictured in our heads and displayed in photos. Exotic birds flew from the trees while villagers paddled downstream in mokoros. The Hakusembe lodge is located just outside of the Namibian outpost of Rundu and across the river from Angola.

It’s a buzzing town full of Angolans and Namibians. While Rundu has nothing to draw tourists of significance it makes for a wonderful stop to relax during a trip to fully enjoy and stop at while crossing the Caprivi strip. Days can be spent relaxing along the river watching hippos and crocodiles and life in Angola.

Mbunzu Living Museum

The highlight of our stop here was a living museum located next to the lodge. The museum was set up by a Namibian nonprofit called the Living Culture Foundation.

The Mbunzu living museum is a school for traditional culture and a community-based business. It is aimed at preserving the culture of the Kavango people and provides an additional source of income for villagers.

We spent an hour and a half learning about the different aspects of their culture, although full-day trips can be arranged. We loved our time at the living museum and think it is such a unique and valuable way to preserve the culture of the local people.

Mbunzu Living Museum Rates

• Short Program: 1.5 hours Introduction to culture with demonstrations of various aspects of traditional life (N$150.00 per person)
• Full Day: 4+ hours for a day spent learning about the culture and learn to make your own crafts. (N$280.00 per person)
• Craftsmanship workshop: Learn about the craft making. (N$150.00 per person)

Namushasha

We knew Charlie needed a good servicing. So, on our way from Rundu to Namushasha we decided we’d make a morning stop in Rundu and have him properly looked at… operating on Africa time, we left Rundu seven hours later. It was around 5:00 p.m. and we had four hours of driving ahead of us. Little did we know that our drive would coincide with the start of the rainy season.

Driving at night is not recommend in Africa, but we ran into this unavoidable situation anyways. We drove through the Caprivi Strip National Park at night in torrential rains with “elephant crossing” warnings every 5 kilometers. It was late in the night by the time we arrived at the Namushasha River Lodge, but thankfully we made it in one piece.

We had the foresight to have called the lodge in advance and warned them of our late arrival. The lodge was kind enough to put us up in their honeymoon room, which was about three times the size of our old NYC apartment. There was a full meal waiting for us at our private table to enjoy as well!

The next morning we awoke to vervet monkeys outside and views of a Zambezi river plain. Of our entire tour of Namibia Namushasha offered the most amazing views. In this lush setting, we could see herds of various antelopes running across through flood plains and crocodiles lazily cruising down the river in search of lunch.

There was also a diverse birdlife here as well. We saw a variety of birds from the comfort and privacy of our back porch set high in the trees. From here we were able to take in a variety of activities. Visitors to the lodge have the option of evening game cruises down the river in a boat, a visit to a cultural center, or a game drive in the neighboring Bwabwata National Park.

How is the Caprivi section part of Namibia?

The story comes in the form of a bit of a scam if you ask me. The German Chancellor Leo Von Caprivi was looking for a water route to link Southwestern German Africa (Namibia) with the Indian Ocean where they had colonial rights to Zanzibar (Tanzania). Legendary explorer Cecil Rhodes knowing of Victoria Falls sold Caprivi the rights for an impossible river passage to the Indian Ocean.

Where we didn’t go in Namibia.

A month in the country felt too short. Traveling long-term means blasting through to each place with only a day or two. This would prove to be absolutely exhausting and not fun. While some may cover more ground in a shorter amount of time we cannot. Here are the places of note to visit when planning your trip that we failed to cover.

• Spitzkoppe
• Northwestern Namibia
• Northern Skeleton Coast
• Quiver Tree Forest
• Waterberg Plateau

Quick Help to Northern Namibia

• Capital: Windhoek
• Currency: The Namibian Dollar, equivalent to the South African Rand
• Borders are hassle free for self-drivers.
• Self-Driving is the most popular way of getting around Namibia. Distances are great and petrol stations are scarce so buy a map and plan accordingly.
• We were able to get around with credit card for a majority of our time in Namibia.
• Most roads around the country are in very good condition, however, expect corrugation and some bumpy rides.
• Visitors will be able to get by just fine with English in Namibia. We found most Namibians to be exceptionally friendly.
• We experienced no bribes, hassles, or police corruption in the country during our month in the country.
• We felt very safe traveling in Namibia. We did not go to Windhoek as we felt we didn’t need to see another big city.
• Visitors will be able to get just about anything they need in Swakopmund and Windhoek. Don’t expect common amenities in many of the other towns.
• MTC and TN Mobile are the two main cell phone providers in the country. We received a promotion for 1.3 GB of data for $N40 for one week with TN Mobile Jiva Surfer. Cell phone service was only available in towns and cities.
• We felt that Namibia was very “western” feeling and felt much like South Africa. It wasn’t until we got into Damaraland and then the Caprivi region that we felt we were in Africa.
• It is not recommended to drive at night in Namibia. Especially in the north where there are cattle, goats, and donkey grazing on the roads.

Book A Safari in Namibia

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to choose your best itinerary. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

The change in weather created gusts of fiery red sand, that lit on fire from the descending sun. This all came within our first hour in the country. We had yet to make it to a single site on our journey, but we had already come to our conclusion. Namibia is entrancing.

Weather in Namibia is not pleasant nor is there much green. However, the landscapes and wildlife are spectacular. Breathtaking and stunning are not terms used loosely here, because the landscapes are just that.

Our first trip with our new car begins in Southern Namibia, which can roughly be divided by the tropic of Capricorn. There are a number of places to visit in the south of the country. Granted it is the least sparse region of Namibia, and it is not your standard place of beauty.

Unless dry, hot, dusty, dead, weathered, rocky, or sandy are your ideal adjectives when looking for your next holiday. If you want to sit on a beach and drink pina colada’s Namibia won’t be your cup of tea. Namibia is a country that reminds you that the earth does not revolve around you. You’re small in Namibia. And we like it that way.

Southern Namibia Self Drive Itinerary

Fish River Canyon, Namibia

Our first stop in Namibia was a deep gouge out of the earth that could swallow cities whole. Fish River Canyon was the result of the separation of the Gondwana supercontinent. An event that shaped much of the landscapes of Southern Africa today. We arrived in this area at the start of a new moon after driving all day from Cape Town. By the time we turned on the road for the canyon it was dark.

Read More: {Being Undesirable and the Real Reason We Bought a Car in Africa}

A Namibian night during the new moon is pure darkness. There are no street lights, paved roads, or houses. We drove down a sand road and could not distinguish any characteristics of the landscape. When I stopped to let air out of our tires for the road the light from my flashlight was swallowed whole by the black.

Gondwana Canyon Roadhouse

After twelve hours of being on the road, we pulled into the most fitting place imaginable, The Canyon Roadhouse. A new lodge that embodies all of the aspects of an old roadhouse. The Canyon Roadhouse is also one of the best places to fill up on petrol or diesel close to the canyon. When you’re traveling through Africa being strategic on when and where you fill you tank up is crucial.

So, we made good use of their petrol station. While we stayed at the Roadhouse we had a comfy room, hot shower, A/C, and good food with all the charm. Old cars littered across the car park and license plates adorning the walls are touches that stood out. The roadhouse made for a great first stopover to explore the Canyon.

Gondwana Canyon Village

The next day we moved camp and went to Gondwana Collection’s Canyon Village. The lodge was set up in the form of a small village lost in the desert. Turning off the main road, you wind 3km down a sandy track before arriving at the main lodge, a low stone building with a massive thatched roof. We arrived early in the day, eager to explore the area. After checking in, we wasted no time and took advantage of the cloud coverage before the sun was in full swing.

The weather in Namibia is no joke. Temperatures in Namibia during the summer can easily reach 45C. So, unlike other parts of the world, a little bit of cloud coverage and a breeze is a very good thing. With that in mind, we set out for a bushwalk up the neighboring mountain. The walk provided stunning views of the landscape and gave us a chance to get active, something we needed after all the driving.

We came to a small nature blind which provided shade, as the sun was starting to peak out, and offered a great vantage point. After sitting a moment, we spotted oryx, zebra, and springbok in the Gondwana Nature Reserve. The reserve is 127,000 hectares and was returned to nature by Gondwana.

Not wanting to let the opportunity pass us, we began our descent down the small mountain in order to grab some photos. The wildlife within the Gondwana Reserve and the surroundings take some work to find, but against all odds, it exists in variety.

The rest of the evening was spent relaxing poolside. It’s pretty much the best way to take in an area. Sitting down with a good book, Trigger Warning: Short Fictions and Disturbances, and the pool was the perfect way to take in the region’s tranquility while escaping the heat with some company in the form of dassies.

The next day was the day for us and we set out for the Fish River Canyon edge. Late October in Namibia was hot as temperatures soared close to 40C. We initially made our way to the Canyon late morning, and it was too stinking hot so we agreed to make our way back to the pool. We made our way back to the Canyon around 17:00 with some cold Windhoek lagers in hand. The two notable beer brands in Namibia are Windhoek and Tafel.

The sunset over the canyon is breathtaking. It’s the sort of view you drive hours out of your way to take in with some cold beers, and that’s just what we did. However, the region proved much more interesting than we had hoped. With our Windhoeks and the sun is gone, we returned to the Canyon Village for a delicious meal. Something about the hot sun makes us very hungry.

Fish River Canyon Facts

Fish River Canyon is the largest canyon in Africa. It is around 160 km long and 27km across, while the canyon cliffs descend to almost 550m at points. The canyon formation dated back to around 650 million years ago and began forming during the movement of tectonic plates as the supercontinent Gondwana split.

Over these hundreds of millions of years, Fish River, and at points, glaciers have slowly worn away at the once-solid plateau creating a mesmerizing canyon. Visitors can hike the trail in the winter months from May – September; however, during the summer months, the risk of flash flooding prevents hikers from tackling the 88km challenge.

The NWR does offer camping at the gate, but we checked out the campsite on our way in and would not recommend staying there by any means (little shade and very dusty). The Gondwana Collection offers a campsite at their Canyon Roadhouse (Canyon Road Campsite) and Ais-Ais Resort offers camping to the south of the canyon with thermal hot springs.

Please note that although Fish River Canyon is a popular stop for those touring Namibia, it is remote and in a desert. Water scarcity, heat, bad roads, and sand storms are all real threats here. Always travel with enough water and know what you are getting into. We have heard stories of travelers treating Namibia as if they were hitchhiking around Europe. Do not be one of them.

Fish River Canyon Park

Park Fees: N$30 Namibian, N$60 SADC Resident, N$80 International

Vehicle Entry Fee: N$10

Luderitz, Namibia

Namibia can be perplexing. It is a former German colony and the influence is still felt today. Many Namibians speak German and towns like Luderitz and Swakopmund still bear the mark of German architecture. These German homes are sandwiched between a cold ocean and towering sand dunes.

The chilly waters produce strong winds that beat gutters made for the snow with thick desert sands. It feels like a post-apocalyptic world, little wonder why George Miller shot Mad Max Fury Road in Namibia.

Decay in desert environments is, if not nonexistent, extremely slow. It feels as if the Namibian coast is stuck in time and trapped in this waterless environment.

One doesn’t have to think hard about where the whole coasts former name, The Skeleton Coast, comes from. The Namibian coast feels like a testament to life on our planet, despite the odds it is teeming. We found thousands of flamingos, pelicans, seals, a few whales, and even a colony of penguins.

Exploring more of Luderitz involves venturing south from the town out to see the Luderitz peninsula. We drove roughly 30km out of town and around to Diego’s Point. The point is where the explorer Diogo Cão first landed on his way down the coast before claiming Mozambique in the name of Portugal.

The point may be one of the strangest places we have ever been because of its complete emptiness and eerieness. The cold waters whipped strong gusts of winds while the waves pounded against a rocky shore. We could see massive sand dunes in the distance and an island of fur seals just off shore.

Our true reasoning for traveling to Luderitz was not for the coast. Ten kilometers from Luderitz in the desert is where you can find the abandoned German mining town, called Kolmanskop.

Kolmanskop, Namibia

The abandoned diamond mining town of Kolmanskop was once a thriving place despite being in the middle of the Namib desert. In the early 1900s, a German railway worker found a diamond lying on the ground; the rest is history.

A town was quickly set up and grew in size. At its peak, the mining town had a hospital, ballroom, bowling alley, theater, school, power station, ice factory, a trolley system, and a sports hall with 400 Germans and 800 Owambo contract workers.

They went to all sorts of lengths to prevent diamond theft. There are stories of making workers drink castor oil and do a stint in the infirmary ward at the end of their contract to ensure they were totally clean of any merchandise.

Today, the ghost town still stands in the sand dunes of the Namib Desert. In the 1980s, the DeBeer mining company decided to turn the former town into a museum. The only threat to the towns now is the encroaching sand dunes.

The museum offers a free tour, but we suggest giving it a pass. The tours are informative, but as Namibia continues to experience a tourist boom, the group’s number is close to 50 in what was formerly the off-season. 

If possible, do some reading on the town here, and then go to Kolmanskop yourself.  You no longer need to pre-arrange a tour or permits for your visit to Kolmanskop. We arrived 10 minutes before the tour and had no problem. (Don’t pay for a photography permit. They do not check.)

Kolmanskop Permit Cost: N$75.00 per adult

Aus, Namibia

This stop won’t appear in most tourists’ Namibian itineraries, but it makes for a wonderful stop. Aus is a small town with very little except for two campsites, a lodge, a petrol station, a restaurant, and a hotel. It lies along one of the few major roads in Namibia, the B4.

The road is largely flat and desert, but as one approaches Aus, the mountains rise up out of the desert. Here you’ll find stunning red rock sunsets and a rare group of horses.

Our true reasoning for venturing here was in search of the feral horses. This proved to be much more work than we initially thought. The corrugated roads of Namibia had put our Land Cruiser’s radiator in a bad place. Several years of no love and the radiator was full of sediment.

This means that when we climbed the desert hill to Aus with the wind on our back and five people in the truck, we started to overheat badly. With the heat running and us baking like hams in the oven, we got lucky and spotted the horses out of our window, thanks to Ben a fellow traveler with his own blog.

We turned off the highway and down the dirt roads to the watering hole where the feral horses were waiting. No one knows where these wild desert horses originated from, but they now number close 150. The horses have adapted to their desert environment and are said to able to go five days with little to no water.

We parked at a distance from them, but they quickly approached out of curiosity. Within minutes we found ourselves surrounded by the wild horses who found Charlie, our Land Cruiser, quite interesting. The horses are beautiful, but in many ways do feel like regular domesticated horses. You can observe more wild behavior as the horses play (and even fight) with each other.

We set up camp at Gondwana’s Klein Aus Vista campsite. The campsite costs N$160 per person. The campsite much like their lodges is well run and had spaced campsites with shade, fire pits, showers, and toilets. Watching the sun descend over Aus mountains makes for the perfect sundowner location. The next morning we broke camp and headed towards Mariental and the famous Kalahari Desert.

The Kalahari

The Kalahari is a massive swath of desert land in Southern Africa and occupies much of Namibia and Botswana. Here rust-colored sand stains the earth and vegetation dots the horizon making for a gorgeously colored landscape. As beautiful it may be in the evening, it can become unbearably hot during midday.

Temperatures in the Kalahari can reach 50C and the midday sun turns everything into a bleak barren looking wasteland. It can be important to look at the best time to visit Namibia so you aren’t always scorching hot.

The landscape here is grand in scale. A short walk through leaves you wondering how it can go on for thousands of kilometers. It is a landscape that leaves its mark on the earth from space.  Sand storms here reach up into the earth’s atmosphere and can affect global weather patterns.

The Tswana refer to the Kalahari as the Kgalagadi: Land of Thirst. It most certainly is. The massive stretch of earth stretches across eight countries and sunsets here are mesmerizing and demand the travelers’ attention. The morning and evening light pulls out great contrasts as the red iron sand compliments acacia trees. By some accounts, the volume of sand in the Kalahari makes it the largest desert in the world, but that doesn’t mean you’ll find large sand dunes here. Instead, it is endless plain of deep red sand.

On a smaller scale, life does exist! The horizon can be dotted by a family of meerkats standing at attention. While hundreds of species of birds fly through the sky, not including the flightless ostrich. Not to mention one of our favorite African birds – the weaver. The desert is also home to numerous large mammals such as oryx, springbok, zebras, and jackals.

Gondwana Kalahari Anib Lodge

Our journey into the Kalahari began 25km from Mariental. The Gondwana Collection’s Kalahari Anib and Farmhouse were set as our bases to explore the legendary stretch of desert. It was a long travel day for us and we made our way to Mariental from Aus after spotting the feral horses in a mountain desert.

Our struggle with Charlie continued as traveling through the scorching hot Namibian sun caused him to continue overheating. More of the windows down and heat on drill, NOT FUN!

However, we turned to Gondwana’s Kalahari Park for the first time and knew we’d made a good decision regarding our itinerary in Southern Namibia. A short check in and explanation later we were sitting on our private deck and enjoying some gin and tonics while watching the breathtaking sunset.

The park houses both the Kalahari Campsite and Kalahari Anib Lodge. We stayed in the Anib Lodge, but their campsites are also a wonderful option for those looking to be more in tune with nature or on a budget. Dinner on the back deck of the Anib lodge was buffet style and both delicious and relaxing. Nights in the African bush have this quality to them you can’t find back in any city.

We were nearly run over by a springbok on our walk back to our room as he pronged right up over our heads after we gave him/her a fright. After retiring to our room we woke up to a herd of eland at the watering hole outside of our bedroom window.

Nineteen rooms at the Anib Lodge face out to the Kalahari Game Park and a watering hole frequented by the wild game. There seemed to be a revolving door of animals at all times of the day, and night. The park is filled with lots of wild game and makes for a wonderful introduction to the Kalahari.

The Kalahari Farmhouse

An interesting facet of the Kalahari is that it is not as dry as it seems. One of the largest subterranean aquifers in the world exists here. So large that despite being in a desert there are places where the water is pushed up out of the ground. One of the natural aquifers is in Stampriet just another 25km down the road from the Anib lodge.

This is the farm or the self-sufficiency center for the entire Gondwana Collection where they grow much of produce used in their lodges. The water on the farm is actually a natural spring and is some of the cleanest water due to the natural filtration process from the Kalahari sands.

The lodge at Stampriet is called The Kalahari Farmhouse. Each room is rustic and modeled after a miniature farmhouse. We loved the touches here, like the old-school farmhouse doors. What made it all the more incredible is that it is more or less a hidden oasis in the middle of the Kalahari Desert. It’s like an escape from Namibia, within Namibia.

There is a lovely garden, green grass, and large trees that you will not find anywhere else in Southern Namibia. Tasha also made full use of the pool during the midday Namibian heat.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Mariental and Stampriet make for those looking to get a taste of the Kalahari; however, for those looking to truly get into the bush, the lodges/campsites make for a great stopover en route to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

The park is located in Botswana and South Africa. The park is home to some of Africa’s greatest wildlife. Here you can find migrating herds of wildebeest and eland. In comparison, large predators like lions and cheetahs roam free.

The red sands within the park stretch on forever. The experience we received was a good taste of the Kalahari, but the real thing lies within this park, where it is truly wild. 4×4 tracks lead deep into the wilderness through thick red sand offering a true adventure for those brave enough or crazy enough. You can read more about the park here.

Sossusvlei, Namibia

After the Kalahari, we spent a week exploring the Namib desert on a more intimate scale before we headed for the world-famous Sossusvlei. If there is one place you have seen of Namibia in photos, it is Sossusvlei, and rightfully so.

The famous location is about a small arid clay pan that is surrounded by the Namib Desert and the highest sand dunes on earth. This section of the desert is home to some of the country’s largest sand dunes, and they are by all accounts grand in scale. The location also happens to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Namibia.

We arrived at the Seriesm Campsite in Sossusvlei with no reservations and were relegated to the overflow campsite. This campsite turned out to be less than stellar, and we would not recommend staying here (at least in the overflow). The campsite is a parking lot in the Namib Desert at the foot of the largest sand dunes in the world. Suffice to say it was not a pleasant camping experience…but we stayed because…

The early morning light! Yes, we stayed in what will likely be one of our least enjoyable campsites on this whole trip so we could get up at 4:30 a.m. Yay! The big thing with the Sossusvlei area is to see the sun rise over the dunes which are an incredible sight to see. Before the sun rose we packed up camp and hightailed it into the desert.

The majority of visitors make it to the gate as they open up at 5:15 a.m. and make a mad dash for Sossusvlei or Dune 45. Dune 45 is one of the tallest dunes within the park. The main draw is its accessibility. The dune is 45km from the main gate, hence its name. The road to the dune is paved and it has a parking lot at its base. If timed properly it is possible to drive to and climb the dune to watch the sun come up over the Namib desert. You must see the sunrise over the desert at least once in your life.

Read More: {15 Namibia Travel Tips to Know Before You Go}

We chose to opt out of climbing the dune with the other tourists this time. Instead, we found a dune all to ourselves deep in the national park. When the sun crests, over 300m, high, piles of sand set the skylights on fire. The dunes go from flat color to a deep red while the shadows cast from these giants take on the shapes of living creatures on a monstrous scale.

Sossusvlei Park Prices

• Park Fee: N$30 Namibian, N$60 SADC Resident, N$80 International
• Sesriem Campsite: N$200 Per Person

Tropic of Capricorn

We left Southern Namibia as we crossed the Tropic of Capricorn on our journey closer to the Equator in Uganda. For the next few days, we’ll spend our time soaking up the odd colonial vibes in the cities of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay on the eerie coast of Namibia. Old German homes, flamingos, and a massive seal colony await.

Namibia is, by all means, a country of the desert.  This is only detailing the first half of our journey through the nation. Stay tuned for our trip through Northern Namibia!

Quick Tips to Self-Driving Southern Namibia

• Capital: Windhoek
• Currency: The Namibian Dollar, equivalent to the South African Rand
• Borders are easy to cross between South Africa and Botswana.
• Self-Driving in Southern Namibia is the most popular way of getting around. Distances are great, and petrol stations are scarce, so buy a map and plan accordingly. We could pay with a credit card for gas at almost all gas stations.
• Most roads around the country are in very good condition. However, expect corrugation and some bumpy rides.
• Visitors will be able to get by just fine with English in Namibia
• We experienced no bribes, hassles, or police corruption in the country during our month in the country.
• We felt very safe traveling in Namibia. We did not go to Windhoek as we felt we didn’t need to see another big city.
• MTC and TN Mobile are the two main cell phone providers in the country. We received 1.3 GB of data promotion for $N40 for one week with TN Mobile Jiva Surfer. Cell phone service was only available in towns and cities.

Book A Safari in Namibia

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to choose your best itinerary. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

To many Namibia is a land unheard of, but it is rising as the new “hot spot” for international travel. Even with it’s rising popularity one can even find themselves completely isolated in a far off land. We traveled overland in our Land Cruiser and at points felt we were on a foreign planet.

This is our Namibia photography collection of a November spent around Namibia. Hope you enjoy these Namibia pictures as much as we do.

Our Guides To Namibia

• A Self Drive Guide Through the Wild Northern Namibia
• Namib Desert Exploring: A Field Guide To Driving Southern Namibia
• A Road Trip Through Namibia
• 15 Namibia Travel Tips to Know Before You Go
• Etosha National Park Safari Guide
• Experiencing Wolwedans Dunes Lodge, Boulders Camp, and Private Camp

Explore Namibia Through Video

Amazing Namibia Pictures that Will Make You Want to Visit

Handstands in Deadvlei

South African Oryx or Gemsbock

Flamingos in Walvis Bay

Fish River Canyon Lodge

Wolwedans Tented Camp

Cooling Off While Watching Wildlife

Animal Crossing in Etosha National Park

Bush Snake in the Desert

All Smiles on the Caprivi Strip

Wild Houses in Aus

Mother and Child Near Botswana

Cape Fur Seals

Camping Near Sossusvlei

Wild Horses Looking at Us in Aus

Hiking in Namibia

Kolmanskop

Sunrise in the Namib Desert

Sunrise in the Desert

Into Our Lodge at Wolwedans

Stormy Days in the Desert

The Mysterious Fairy Circles

Looking Out to Angola

Sunset Near Fish River Canyon

Elephant Spotting Along the Chobe

Hungry Hippos in the Chobe River

Baby Elephant Playing in the Water

Hope you enjoyed a photographic trip around Namibia with these Namibia pictures!

Book A Safari in Namibia

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to choose your best itinerary. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

Check Out Some Lodges in Namibia

Wolwedans Dune Lodge

Wolwedans Dunes Lodge features ten chalets mostly constructed out of wood instead of canvas tents. Each room opens up to the east, offering incredible views of the sunrise every morning. We slept with the canvas tents rolled up and could gaze at the stars all night. We felt at one with nature while still having an extremely comfortable sleep.

Wolwedans Dunes Lodge has a massive pool attached to the pharmacy (or the “bar”) and continues to spill into one grand lobby area. This is where Cameron and I spent most of our day – basking in the intense Namibian sun surrounded by cool water and a good book.

Chobe Water Villas

Chobe Water Villas sits on the wildlife-filled Chobe River.  It’s also the most modern accommodation we have seen in Africa. Walking into the main area transports you into a varying array of time zones and locations. The interior was decorated in chic white and gray décor and stark shapes.

Exploring the architecture and decoration of the hotel leads to sources of inspiration from around Namibia.  From the skeleton of a whale, to the seasonal rains that bring life.

Gondwana Canyon Village

The Gondwana Canyon Village was set up in the form of a small village lost in the desert. Turning off the main road you wind 3km down a sandy track before arriving at the main lodge a low stone building with a massive thatched roof.

We arrived early in the day eager to explore the area. After checking in we wasted no time and took advantage of the cloud coverage before the sun was in full swing.

It’s one of the largest towns in Namibia – though it’s still village-like small with a population of 44,725. Swakopmund is not your typical African city, with plenty of culture and beautiful views you are spoilt with attractions here. Thanks to its characteristic architecture and charming streets, mixed with a coastal location Swakopmund is one of the best places to visit in Namibia.

How to get to Swakopmund

Swakopmund is located at Namibia’s coastline, so in the west of the country. It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from the capital of Windhoek.

As Swakopmund is one of the few cities in Namibia, there is a connection by public transport between Windhoek and the coastal town. Public transport isn’t the best way to get around this remote and sparsely remoted country though as there just aren’t that many options. So self-driving is a popular way to visit. Swakopmund should be including on any Namibia road trip itinerary.

A German town in Africa

The name of the town of Swakopmund might already give away that this isn’t the typical African town. It actually isn’t African at all. When driving into Swakopmund, you might feel like you are traveling to another continent. It looks extremely European – German to be exact.

Namibia has a strong connection with Germany, as it used to be under German rule in colonial times. This might not be the best way to start a strong bond between two countries, but German tourists still flock to Namibia in high numbers and it’s likely you’ll run into many on your travels there. Many descendants of the old German occupiers still live in Namibia, especially in Swakopmund.

The result is a town with a German name and many other German references like restaurants with German cuisine and European architecture. Swakopmund has half-timbered houses and even a ‘Brauhaus’ with German beers and ‘schnitzels’ in its menu. Some citizens still speak German and we’ve been told there is a small German newspaper as well.

best things to do in Swakopmund

As there aren’t many cities in Namibia, Swakopmund is one of the few tourist destinations in the country with a restaurant scene, exciting tours, and facilities that cater to visitors. It’s worth your time to stay here for three or four days and absorb this different side of Namibia. These are the best things to do in Swakopmund on your visit!

1. Indulge in the Swakopmund restaurant Scene

Swakopmund has many restaurants with great food. When traveling around Namibia, you’ll rarely get to choose between restaurants. Much of the time you may have to resort to cooking your own meal or dine in the lodge’s restaurant most of the time. So make sure to take your time to indulge in Swakopmunds restaurant scene.

The German and international cuisine is very well represented. The iconic Brauhaus will serve you typical German ‘schnitzels’ and sausages – ‘bratwurst’ – with German beers. Even the menu and staff are German. It’s located in the heart of Swakopmund in a half-timbered buildings that make you feel like you’re walking in Europe.

If you’re looking for seafood, this coastal town has got you covered as well. Popular places to go are The Tug and Jetty 1905. Both are located at the ocean, offering you a great sunset spectacle each evening. Highly recommended for breakfast are Raith’s Deli, Village Cafe and Cordes & Co. The pancakes at Cordes & Co are the best.

2. Enjoy Namibia’s Speciality Coffee

Swakopmund has a coffee scene as well. You might not expect it from a country like Namibia – sparsely populated and not a modern well-developed destination – but it has some great specialty coffee roasters. Most of them are located in the capital Windhoek, but Swakopmund has some must-visit coffee spots as well.

Slowtown is one of the most well-known coffee roasters in Namibia. It has multiple shops in the capital Windhoek, but one in Swakopmund as well and that’s also where the roastery is. It’s located in the center of Swakopmund, on a street corner close to Raith’s Deli and Cordes & Co. This isn’t the place for breakfast though, it is all about coffee and perhaps some sweets to go with it. If you’re looking for a place to work or sit down with your laptop after some long days road tripping across Namibia, this is a great spot.

Two Beards is another specialty coffee roaster in Namibia. It’s located a bit outside of town and has both a roastery and coffee shop at its location. You can buy roasted beans to bring home with you as well.

3. Stroll around the old town

To absorb the German atmosphere and be amazed by the European-style houses in Africa, you’ll just have to stroll around Swakopmund for a while. Some of the most iconic buildings are in the old town, like the train station, Woermannhau, and the old prison.

The Hohenzollern Building is also quite hard to miss, as it’s located in the heart of Swakopmund. This yellow structure with a red roof is on a street corner, with a remarkable statue of Atlas holding a globe exactly on the corner.

4. Make a half-day trip to the Welwitschia Drive

Just south of Swakopmund is the Namib National Park. Part of it is the Welwitschia Drive, about 30 minutes driving from town. The scenic drive will show you some of Namibia’s finest landscapes and the Welwitschia plant it is named after.

The Welwitschia is one of the rarest plants in the world and this area south of Swakopmund has a very high concentration of them. They can grow hundreds of years old and survive the harsh Namibian desert. To survive under these circumstances, the plants grow an extensive network of roots under the sand. This makes them very vulnerable as well and you shouldn’t come too close to them to avoid any damage to the roots. The largest and oldest Welwitschia plant is one of the last stops of the Welwitschia Drive and its root system is protected by a fence.

Other stops along the drive will show you the orange lichen plant – very rare and fragile, so there are fewer of them each year – a ‘moon landscape’, a South African camp from the First World War, the Swakop River Valley, and much more.

As the Welwitschia Drive is part of a national park, you need a park permit from the state-owned NWR (Namibian Wildlife Resorts) to enter. You should buy it at an NWR office in advance. You will receive both your park permit and a small explanatory guide of all 13 stops along the Drive.

5. Explore the Namib National Park

There’s more to see in the Namib National Park than just the Welwitschia Drive. Head out for a one-day road trip or look for one of the great hiking spots.

The best place to go near Swakopmund is Bloedkopje Mountain. You can climb up the mountain for a view of the desert landscape of Namib Park, or bring some food for a picnic at one of the camping spots at the base of the mountain.

Another place nearby is Tinkas. You might have seen Namibia photos of rock arches in the Namibian desert. This is where you’ll see one of them. There is a hiking trail at Tinkas for a small hike and there are camping spots to stay overnight.

After mentioning all those camping spots, you might get that the Namib park is a great place to go camping as well. There are camping spots all over the park. They all have a braai, trash bin and concrete seat, but no other facilities like running water or electricity. Most of them aren’t located close to each other, giving you the wild camping experience though they are official camping spots.

The NWR park permit you need to visit the Welwitschia Drive, is also your permit for the rest of the park. You can drive around the park using the main roads without a permit. But if you want to leave the main roads to see attractions like the Welwitschia Drive, or if you want to go camping or hiking, you’ll need the permit. A permit is valid for 24 hours, so it includes one night of camping.

6. Go sandboarding Down the Sand Dunes

Swakopmund is close to some of the highest sand dunes in Namibia. Sandboarding down those dunes is one of the best things to do in Swakopmund. You can join a tour, but it would be a more budget-friendly option to rent a board and head out there yourself. You can simply drive towards one of the dunes south of town, close to the coast.

It’s quite an exercise, climbing up the steep dunes over and over again. But the trip down is the best reward. Make sure to bring enough wax and wax your board each time you go down for the top speed if you’re a speed demon that is.

7. Book a desert quad riding Trip

Quad riding is also a popular thing to do in Swakopmund. The vast desert landscape with its sand dunes offers a beautiful backdrop for this activity. You won’t drive your quad alone in the desert, but a tour guide will lead your way. That doesn’t make this activity less adventurous though, as he won’t take it as slow or fast as you are comfortable with. Book a Tour!

8. visit the seals at cape cross

North of Swakopmund is the NWR-protected Cape Cross Seal Reserve. Cape Cross has the largest seal colony in Africa, creating the most intense smell and noise you can imagine. There is a boardwalk above and between the seals, so you can see them from very close, don’t try and get too close though – they have sharp teeth and bite.

If you’ll visit Cape Cross in December-January, you’re right on time to see all the babies tumbling over each other and trying to manage the ocean waves.

You’ll need an NWR permit for Cape Cross as well. You can buy it at a small office, you’ll pass by after leaving the main C34 road to drive to Cape Cross.

9. Drive the Skeleton Coast up north

North of Swakopmund is another national park: The Skeleton Coast. If you’re in Swakopmund already it’s worth it to continue driving north at least for a few hours to see the Skeleton Coast. One day would be enough for a mini road trip along this stunning coastal strip.

The area’s name is inspired by the many stranded ships here for over centuries. If any sailor would survive, he would soon die in the remote desert landscape. One of the highlights of the drive is those old shipwrecks. As they slowly decay in the desert, they are disappearing.

One of the more recent and therefore best-visible shipwrecks at the Skeleton Coast is the Zeila shipwreck. You can find the Zeila between Swakopmund and Cape Cross. Others are more up north, like the Winston and southwest sea. At the northern tip of the Skeleton Coast are the state-owned Torra Bay Campsite and Terrace Bay Resort. The location at the empty beach is stunning, so you might want to stay there for one night. Check-in advance if they are open, as they’re not all year round.

Be forewarned, There are no services available so it’s important that you are self-sufficient if you travel on the Skeleton Coast. That means a 4×4 vehicle, enough gasoline for your trip, food, water, and you should know how to change a tire.

10. Relax at the beach – but don’t go for a swim

Though Namibia is located on the coast, it has only a few beach destinations and Swakopmund is one of them. Don’t expect tropical white sand and palm tree-dotted beaches, as the sea is quite rough in Namibia and the coastal areas are windy. But there is a beach and you can definitely hang out and relax there. The best place to go is the Tiger Reef Beach Bar. It has a sand beach and places to relax while ordering a drink or two at the beach bar.

11. Visit Walvis Bay

Another coastal town very close to Swakopmund is Walvis Bay or Walvisbaai. Walvis is ‘whale’ in Afrikaans, referring to the many whales that used to live in this area. It’s a 31-kilometer drive from Swakopmund to Walvisbaai, so this town makes a great half day trip from Swakopmund.

Should you go sandboarding, the dunes you’ll be on are right in between Swakopmund and Walvisbaai. You’ll pass Dune 7 on your way to Walvisbaai and it’s the highest sand dune in the area. Though it’s a tough climb to get up, you’ll have splendid views of the area as a reward.

Walvis Bay is the country’s chief port town. The waters here are rich in plankton, drawing in many southern right whales each year. While the whales are amazing, Walvis Bay is most well known for hosting 35,000 flamingos on its shores. You can’t miss them as you drive along the coast. We enjoyed watching and taking photos of them for a good portion of time.

If you keep driving past Walvis Bay you’ll hit the tip of Pelican Point, a natural sand spit that stretches out into the ocean and offers the chance to see pelicans and more marine life!

When is the Best Time to Visit Namibia?

Winter is the best time to visit Namibia as it’s the dry season. This generally starts in May and is best between July and October. However this is high season in Namibia so prices will be at their highest and you will have to book in advance.

Quick Namibia Travel Tips

• Languages Spoken: There are nine major indigenous languages including various San languages. The most popular native language is Oshiwambo. English, German, and Afrikaans are all widely spoken as well.
• Capital: Windhoek. (Pronounced WIND HOOK)
• Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD) On par with the South African Rand.
• Visa: Many visitors can enter Namibia visa-free for 90 days. Check with your specific embassy.
• What to Pack: Lightweight tan color clothing. A Safari hat. A good pair of boots and at least one jacket. See our full Africa packing list.
• Stay Connected: MTN and TN Mobile are the main service providers. Read more about the internet here. 

The Wolwedans operation is a contender for the best eco-lodge operation in Africa and arguably the best in Namibia. At the core of a lodge in Africa is the environment, it is what draws guests. And how a lodge treats views their environment speaks loudly about the passion that will be experienced by those fortunate enough to call themselves guests.

Wolwedans A Desert Lodge Collection

What’s your idea of Namibia? If you have any idea, it is likely one of wonder. While images of towering sand dunes, ancient rock formations, wild tribes, desert animals, sand storms, and mysterious circles swirl around your head. All of which are striking elements of Namibia.

However, one of the most striking elements of Namibia is not the scorching hot temperatures in the summer, but the serenity. In the desert at night, there is simply the wandering soul and the night sky. For us, we found solitude in Namibia in almost every corner.

The Wolwedans Experience

Wolwedans is a collection of camps/lodges in the middle of the desert. It took us a few hours to get there with Charlie, on the unpaved and corrugated roads that make up Namibia. The founding partner of the NamibRand Nature Reserve a 200,000-hectare non-profit private nature reserve in southwest Namibia. The focus of which is the preservation and restoration of the Namibian land to its natural state.

We talk a lot about eco-friendly products and businesses and Wolwedans is an exceptional example. The lodging company is very close to self-sustaining, which is amazing given its location in such a secluded part of the world. The reception area is where most guests will check-in and leave their car for the duration of their stay.

Except this reception is much more than the typical hotel reception area. It’s the heart and soul of the entire Wolwedans operation. “Base camp,” is where the staff members reside, where water is treated, where waste is managed, where vegetables are grown, and where all the magic happens.

We were given a comprehensive tour around base camp to see the behind the scenes operations for ourselves, and it was remarkable to see the amount of care that goes into making this whole operation complete. From the bed frame woodwork, to tent canvas repairs, to in laundry facilities and auto repairs this place runs like it’s own little city.

All produce is grown in greenhouses set up at base camp, with only meat products coming in from Windhoek. We were pleased to find out that Wolwedans scored 5 flowers for Eco Awards Namibia, promoting recycling, reusing, and reducing. I could go on and on about their sustainability objectives in Africa, but I want to take you to the beautiful lodges first.

Wolwedans Dunes Lodge

We were told that sometimes the Wolwedans Dunes Lodge is seen as the least popular option at Wolwedans, but I cannot possibly see why. The lodge is situated right at the top of a major sand dune and offers incredible views. We were greeted by the lodge manager, Selma, at arrival.

She introduced herself to us with her birth name, from the Nama “click” language that I don’t think I could ever properly pronounce. So we settled on the name “Terrible Selma,” until we were to depart.

Wolwedans Dunes Lodge features ten chalets mostly constructed out of wood instead of canvas tents. Each room opens up to the east, offering incredible views of the sunrise every morning. We slept with the canvas tents rolled up and could gaze at the stars all night.

We felt at one with nature while still having an extremely comfortable sleep. Wolwedans Dunes Lodge has a massive pool attached to the pharmacy (or the “bar”) and continues to spill into one grand lobby area. This is where Cameron and I spent most of our day – basking in the intense Namibian sun surrounded by cool water and a good book.

Dinner time becomes a communal gathering at Wolwedans Dunes Lodge. Guests can all sit together and get to know one another over a seven-course Wolwedans meal. Meals start with a small appetizer, and then grow and grow into a magnificent and decadent main dish of fish or meat.

I am a pretty social person, so I thoroughly enjoyed that Wolwedans encourages guests to sit together at Dune Lodge – we even walked away with a few new friends here. Of course, separate tables are available for those who want a private experience.

Wolwedans Boulders Camp

We were feeling like even better eco-friendly travelers after Wolwedans Dunes Lodge so we made our way onward. Wolwedans Boulders Camp is easily the most secluded, exclusive, and different style of camp in the collection. It’s about 45 kilometers from base camp and takes at least an hour on interesting dirt roads to get to. Boulders Safari Camp is built entirely into… a series boulders!

There are only four tents that can accommodate eight people, making it one of the most private lodges in the desert. The entire camp is run by the men of Namibia, or the “Boulders Boys” as they told us upon arrival. We settled into our comfortable tent and enjoyed a sundowner with the other guests around the camp’s boma.

The Boulders Boys were going on a game drive in the morning as this area of Wolwedans is where a lot of the wildlife action happens. This is also the only area of Wolwedans where we saw a cheetah! He bolted in front of our car so fast that, unfortunately, we were unable to snap a photo.

Wolwedans Dunes Camp

There is a Dunes Lodge and a Dunes Camp at Wolwedans, which can get a little confusing. Dunes Camp is actually much smaller than the lodge and is run by all ladies, or otherwise the “Dunes Divas.”

Wolwedans Dunes Camp is located at the top of a 250-meter high dune, with breathtaking views over the stunning mountains. The back porches of the tents at Dunes Camp are the perfect place to chill out and get lost in the desert air with a good book. There is a WiFi at the main lodge where coffee, tea, and cake is so that everyone can feel more at home with their stay.

When the sun goes down the ladies’ light a fire and they encourage everyone to gather around and enjoy a sundowner together. Dinner here is also a communal affair and everyone can enjoy their seven-course meal within the company of the other lodge guests.

Wolwedans Private Camp

Although we loved our time at Dunes Lodge, Dunes Camp, and Boulders Camp I have to give special attention to our favorite of the collection – Wolwedans Private Camp.

Private Camp is as one may expect – private. For obvious reasons we really enjoyed the privacy and seclusion at private camp, and so did Brangelina and other celebs when they were here! Yes, private camp is a bit “famous.”

The whole area is about five times the size of our old New York City apartment, and it’s located smack dab in the middle of the desert! There are three luxurious bedrooms here, a personal bar, kitchen, living room, and outside lounge bed. Private Camp also features a private swimming pool overlooking one of Wolwedans best watering holes.

We enjoyed spending almost every waking second outside gushing over the life that the watering hole brought in. At almost all times there were either zebra, oryx, or springbok outside our doorstep. This made for the perfect opportunity for Cam and me to grab some amazing up-close wildlife shots.

Just because we were completely secluded in the desert doesn’t mean we had to fend for ourselves either. Andrew, the lodge manager here was around for every meal and was accompanied by our own personal chef to prepare our breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We definitely didn’t leave Wolwedans any thinner.

Dinner at private camp is a special affair as Andrew set up a romantic table for all guests to have dinner at under the stairs. Before dinner, Andrew and our chef exclaimed the courses in English and then in went into a very detailed version of dinner in their own language.

The scene felt like something from Out of Africa, except I was Meryl Streep and Cameron was Robert Redford. If I could have a permanent home in the desert, Private Camp would be my first choice.

Activities At Wolwedans

Lounging around at every different lodge in the desert was more than relaxing, but I’m sure you are wondering what else we did. That’s where Bino and Buti came in! These two Bushman were our personal guides while we were at Wolwedans, and they were always there to show us around the huge reserve.

We met Bino on our first day at Wolwedans. He asked us what we would like to do, and every day he was there to pick us up and drive us around while explaining the desert landscapes along the way.

We met his uncle, Buti, on our second day at Wolwedans. Buti is a more a senior Bushman and really led us to delve deeper into the Bushman people and their hunter-gatherer lifestyle.

We went on a few bushwalks with him, and let me tell you that this guy knows his stuff. He was easily able to spot snakes, spiders, chameleons, and even the smallest beetles that I could have never found. We were able to learn about his people and how they have adapted over time.

At the end of each day, we enjoyed a sundowner with Bino and Buti. They would lead us to the most special places to catch the sunset and would tell us stories of their villages back home. We love learning about new and different cultures, so being able to talk and learn from them was exceptionally rewarding. 

Trampling around the Namibian desert is nice, but it is so much more enjoyable when you have local people that are able to guide you. We decided not to take part in a hot air balloon ride or the scenic flight over the desert, but many people do! This is a fantastic way to see the best of Namibia and can all be arranged while you are sipping on gin and tonics by the desert pool.

Why We Loved Our Stay at Wolwedans?

I’m sure after seeing some of these photos you may be wondering what a place like this costs? I have to admit that Wolwedans is far from a budget destination, and everyone traveling there knows that. However expensive it may be, here is why I’m okay with the costs and why we absolutely loved it.

Conservation at Wolwedans

Being a sustainable eco-lodge isn’t a cheap venture. There is going to be some setup costs to keep the NamibRand Nature Reserve so pristine. The Wolwedans team has taken years to build up the base camp to what it is today.  The solar power, the water treatment, the plant nursery, and everything else has taken time and money to build.

It feels good to stay at a place that is so committed to the fair treatment of the earth and its beauty. Every lodge is constructed in an eco-friendly manner, and every piece of Wolwedans can be removed easily so that one could never even tell there was a lodge in the desert to begin with.

Namibia is also an extremely dry country and there has been a drought there for the past four years. Wolwedans has therefore intervened and set up watering holes every 10 km so that the desert wildlife doesn’t completely die off.

The Staff At Wolwedans

There are just about 80 staff members working for Wolwedans, and every single one of them played a special role in the whole operation. The staff here are well trained and many go to hospitality or tourism school in Namibia. Even better, there is a school at Wolwedans teaching locals how to work in hospitality.

Many of these students end up working for Wolwedans or other lodges across the country. We also loved that we were given a personal guide for our time at Wolwedans, a bushman from the Caprivi Strip. To sweeten the deal every night a staff member sings the dinner menu in their local language. The staff were incredibly welcoming and help create a wonderful atmosphere.

The Food At Wolwedans

The food here is top notch African food. You won’t leave breakfast, lunch, or dinner feeling hungry or unhealthy for that matter! Breakfast usually kicks off with a choice of yogurt, fruit, eggs, or meat and cheese.

Lunch is always some form of salad with ingredients grown right from base camp. Dinner is a seven-course extravaganza that will make you feel good about walking back to your tent in the thick sand.

The Beauty Of Wolwedans

From the desert, to the lodges, to the morning views – everything is just so darn beautiful and dream-worthy. I know that nature is free, but waking up to the sun rising over the red dunes (while still in a comfy bed) is something that will truly take your breath away.

Video on Wolwedans

How to get to Wolwedans

People are able to self-drive to Wolwedans with their own vehicle. A 4×4 is not necessary but recommended. Once at the reception, the lodge staff will take it from there and all worries can be left in the car! Wolwedans also has its own runway and flying in is a popular option.

Transportation To Wolwedans

Wolwedans is located about 2 hours away from Sossusvlei and 400 km from Windhoek. We decided to take a different route and drove in from the Kalahari (Mariental ) which took us about 4.5 hours. Check here for exact directions. 

Average Cost Per Night

Wolwedans is not a budget destination, it is a truly special place in the heart of the desert. Rates start at $5850 Namibian dollars per person per night. A large chunk of the rate paid goes towards conservation upkeep. We consider the payment to go towards a good cause by directly helping NamibRand Reserve and the beautiful Namibian people.

Best Time To Visit Namibia

Wolwedans is open all year round. High season in Namibia is April to October, with rains and summer heat setting arriving in November. However, we visited the lodge in mid-November and had fantastic weather the whole time. See the full month by month breakdown of the best time to visit Namibia.

Thank you to Wolwedans for sponsoring our stay! As always, all opinions remain our own

Book A Safari in Namibia

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to choose your best itinerary. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

There is no country more stirring than Namibia for desert landscapes. Its name even comes from the world’s oldest desert that covers much of the country. No country on earth can compete for the type of natural beauty that awaits travelers in Namibia. You can find towering red sand dunes, dead tree valleys preserved in time, and utterly unique wildlife.

Elsewhere you can find massive canyons and rock formations at Fish River Canyon, Damaraland, and Spitzkoppe as the Naukluft Mountains rise out of the desert sand dunes. Namibia does not end there as the East stretches into the endless plains of the Kalahari and the Caprivi Strip turns into an oasis of floodplains and rivers teaming with wildlife.

Namibia is entrancing, and there is no doubt about that. It’s one of my favorite countries I have been to and I dream about returning one day. If you asked me my opinion of five places to see before you die, Namibia would be at the top of that list. Before you do that, make sure to read our top Namibia travel tips for guidance and planning!

Our Best Namibia Travel Tips

 Consider Self Driving

If I could give you any Namibia travel advice, it would be to rent a vehicle. Namibia is a country you should self-drive to experience most of its beauty. The sheer amount of rental cars we see on the roads is not just our opinion and is a popular mode of transportation for visitors. There is so much to see and distances are vast, the only way to do it all is with your own set of wheels. Oh, and it’s nice to be able to stop wherever you want and take photos.

If you’re nervous about driving in a foreign country, there isn’t much to fear in Namibia, as the roads are largely open. There are some real threats, though, that should be addressed, such as corrugated roads that lead to flat tires and soft sand that tourists often lose traction as they drive too fast.

We recommend self-driving but make sure to stick to safe driving practices. Then, on top of that, always be prepared to spend the night in your vehicle as a worst-case scenario with plenty of water and food. Most importantly, know how to change a tire!

Keep in mind that Distances are Long

We started planning our Namibia trip months before we arrived. Initially, we set aside a week for the country, and were constantly scoffed at, for good reason too! We got responses like “You’ll spend your entire time driving,” or another Namibian told us “there is way too much to see for a week.”

They were right.

After just a few of these comments, we decided to re-evaluate our trip and changed our time in the country from one week to one month. Namibia is a huge country with plenty to offer visitors. Days are hot and distances between destinations are long.

Unless you are flying from point to point I would suggest at least two weeks to hit the major sights, and three weeks if you don’t want to always be rushed and spend your whole holiday driving. If you’re looking for a short route we’d suggest you make a short loop from the capital, Windhoek, to Swakopmund, Damaraland, and Etosha.

Fill Up!

If you are self-driving in Namibia, then be prepared to fill it up every time you pass a fuel station. As I mentioned, the distances between towns are vast, and fuel is only available in towns and the very rare petrol station. On our first day, we picked up a map of Namibia with all the petrol stations marked throughout the country.

We also knew the range and average fuel efficiency of our vehicle so we could plot routes safely. If you end up stranded in a more remote region of Namibia, you could be sitting for days until help arrives. In terms of payment, cash is always good to carry, but we had no problem paying with a credit card at the majority of gas stations.

don’t be afraid to Drink the Tap Water

We saw many visitors buying or ordering plastic water bottles everywhere. The water throughout most of Namibia, and especially in the cities, is safe to drink. This may be counterintuitive in an African desert nation. However, much of the water sources are from underground aquifers cleaned by some of the best natural filters on earth, the Kalahari Sands.

We always ordered tap water at restaurants and lodges. In the rare case of questioning the water, we turned to our Grayl water bottle to ease our minds. Do keep in mind this is a desert country. Turn off the tap, don’t take long showers, and in general try to conserve water at every chance you get.

remember, Temperatures are Extreme

This is one Namibia travel tip we need to stress, and I’m sure you’ll notice it when you start to do all the amazing things to do in Namibia. It’s pretty common sense, but many visitors tend to underestimate their intended destination. Namibia is a desert country, and the heat is intense. Heatstroke, sun poisoning, and sunburn are real threats in the country, and you should take proper precautions. However, be aware that during the winter, the nighttime can get very cool in the desert.

If you are visiting Namibia in the summertime, make sure to drink plenty of water and protect your skin from the sun. In the winter the daytime will still be warm, but for evenings bring some extra layers. We always love to travel with a down jacket, and even found it useful on summer nights. Check out Africa packing list for ideas on what to pack. If you’re not sure when is a great time to travel to Namibia check out the best time to visit Namibia.

Protect Your Electronics

Pack up any electronics well before you arrive in Namibia. The dry air and dust really seep into the crevices of laptops and camera equipment. Thankfully, Cameron and I both keep our MacBooks protected with a heavy-duty laptop sleeve and our keyboards protected with a cover.

Cameras are particularly susceptible to sand and heat, so it’s a good idea to buy a camera case, backpack, and lens wraps for all of your camera gear. Even if you’re low-key with a point-and-shoot, it’s still a good idea to wrap it in a padded camera case when not in use.

Cameras and laptop keyboards are not fans of sand, so do take care of your gear. We left Namibia without having to replace everything, but if you are a little lax with your gear, you may end up with some unwanted Namibian relics.

Namibian Roads are a Tire Shredder

Namibia just doesn’t eat electronics, though. I can’t count the number of people we saw changing their tires on the Namibian roads. The main roads in Namibia are paved, but the vast majority are gravel, sand, and salt. Add to that some heavy corrugation and it is a recipe that will eat away at car tires. Long story short, I always travel with an extra spare tire in Namibia.

Keeping an eye on the tires is also crucial many unknowing tourists shred their tires because they fail to watch the tires, driving on them once they’ve gone flat. As we mentioned earlier, learn to change a tire before driving around Namibia. If you’re on a tour be prepared for your vehicle to make a stop while your driver changes tires. It’s not a given, but it does occur very often.

The Namibian Dollar = South African Rand

Namibia is part of the Common Monetary Area along with South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland. The Namibian Dollar is 1:1 with the Rand. This means the South African Rand is widely accepted in Namibia. If you’re combining a trip to South Africa with Namibia don’t worry too much about exchanging Rands in either country. Credit cards are widely accepted for payments. We rarely had trouble using our credit cards in Namibia, so make sure to pick a good travel card and rack up those points.

Prepare for Lonesome Times

At points, we drove for hours in Namibia and never saw a soul on the road. With a population of only two million in a huge country, this was expected. If you are self-driving it’s important to know the basics of your car in case you have a breakdown – or else you could be stranded for a few hours in the heat. And most importantly carry plenty of drinking water in case of emergencies.

We got sim cards with TN Mobile (another provider is MTC) for emergencies and for data use. Unfortunately, there was no signal outside of the towns, so if you think your SIM card can get you out of trouble think again! This is why we would advise using MTC, which, has better coverage on the roads.

bring a camera – Namibia is Gorgeous

Namibia is nothing short of breathtaking. In our one month venturing around Namibia, we were frequently left in awe at the sheer scale of its natural landscapes. The days here are extreme contrasts as the Namib Desert goes from a fiery warm in the day to a deathly cool at night. And when the lights go out at night a fireworks display of stars comes out on display. In all our travels it’s still tough to think of a landscape that invokes as many feelings as Namibia.

Soak in the Varying Landscapes

After three weeks in Southern Namibia we almost forgot about the existence of trees. The closest thing to a tree we saw during this time was the famed quiver tree, not technically a tree, and the fossilized ones of Deadvlei. Some of the most recognizable landscapes of the South are rocks, dry river beds, canyons, and sand dunes.

Granted, all of those features are on the grandest scales on earth with the second largest canyon and the largest sand dunes. When compared to Northern-Eastern Namibia or the Caprivi Strip it feels like another world. Namibia isn’t all dry desert, you just have to travel a little bit further and explore! The Caprivi strip is the fertile part of Namibia that few travelers cross, unless on their way to Chobe National Park in Botswana.

Namibia Has a Similar Past to South Africa

South Africa wasn’t the only country under an Apartheid regime. Namibia (which used to be South West Africa) also had laws separating white and black people. Apartheid wasn’t as bad in Namibia as in South Africa, but it left a deep social divide that can still be seen today. The wealth divide is still vast, a pronounced social issue that remains to be fixed in present-day Namibia.

definitely Beware of Aliens

Venture into the Namib Desert to find the mysterious fairy circles of Africa. The circles are unexplained —some scientists say termites cause them, while others say they are the “footprints of the gods.” We say, aliens!

expect some Amazing Wildlife Sightings

We found Etosha National Park to be one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in Africa! Within one hour of our game drive, we had already seen giraffes, zebra, jackals, ostriches, wildebeest, and lions!

I’m not sure if the best part was the abundance of safari animals or the fact that I only paid 80 NAD ($5) to enter and there were hardly any cars on the road. Truthfully, there are better places to go on a safari, but you’ll have to pay a lot more.

Not only are the national parks impressive, but we also smelled our way past thousands of Cape Fur Seals and their pups at the Cape Cross Seal Colony, got lost in pink with the flamingos at Walvis Bay, and tracked down hundreds of oryx in the desert with our Land Cruiser.

Welcome to Germany

Namibia was colonized by Germany in the 19^th century, and much of that German influence is still prevalent today. Swakopmund and Luderitz show stark evidence with their art nouveau architecture, monuments, beerhouses, and meaty cuisines. At least 30,000 Namibians speak German, and names like Hendrik and Hans are common.

Not only is the country a little Bavaria, but just about every foreigner we met in the country was from Germany. Namibia is quite the hotspot for Germans right now so practicing your beer-drinking skills may be useful.

Namibian cuisine is meat heavy

We found the food in Namibia to be very meaty, and you may even get a little glance if you tell a Namibian you don’t eat meat. Despite this, we could still be a vegetarian in the country. Grocery stores are decently stocked with many produce imports from South Africa.

Cities like Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Luderitz also offer many Western luxuries like coffee shops and pizza parlors! If you’re staying at a lodge in Namibia, make sure to tell them your dietary requirements beforehand so that they are prepared.

Is Namibia a safe country to travel?

We never once felt unsafe or threatened in Namibia. I also believe that solo female travelers will have a pleasant time traveling the country and shouldn’t face any annoyances. In saying that, we decided to skip out on Windhoek as we didn’t want to travel the country to spend time in a capital city. Windhoek does not have a reputation for being a safe and clean city, and there is so much more to Namibia than the capital, so I would definitely not recommend staying a long time there.

Book A Safari in Namibia

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to choose your best itinerary. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

We felt especially fond for the Caprivi strip. However, we crossed over the Ngoma border post and geared up to explore more of Africa. The brand new Chobe Water Villas were awaiting us. 

Chobe Water Villas

We didn’t miss Namibia too long, though, because two hours later we were crossing the Chobe River and getting our passports stamped back into Namibia. It had been a long day of driving from the Katima area.

Filled with attempted bribery, sweltering heat, and an African border crossing. We were beyond excited when our boat pulled up to the brand new Chobe Water Villas on the Namibian side of the Chobe River.

It is the first African lodge we stayed at located on a river.  It’s also the most modern accommodation we have seen in Africa. Walking into the main area transports you into a varying array of time zones and locations. The interior was decorated in chic white and gray décor and stark shapes.

Exploring the architecture and decoration of the hotel leads to sources of inspiration from around Namibia.  From the skeleton of a whale, to the seasonal rains that bring life.

The lobby is certain to entertain guests as it features a self-service bar, coffee station, a library full of Afri-chic books, and a cinema room.

I knew we were in for a day time treat when I walked out onto patio area and was faced with a giant infinity pool, next to an in-ground boma perfect to enjoy a round of sundowners.

With the heat of the African summer setting in, I knew we would be making use of the bar, books, and the infinity pool.

{Read More: The Ultimate List of Eco-Friendly Products to Take on Your Travels}

The rooms – or villas – I should say, at Chobe Water Villas are all set on stilts above the Chobe River. All across from the famous Chobe National Park and Sedudu Island in Botswana.

The villas were spacious and housed bells and whistles like their own espresso machine and mini-bar. Cameron made full use of the game finder while I was able to chill out with a new book on the back deck on the river.

We had a great nights sleep in the massive comfortable bed, with an air-conditioned canopy called the evening breeze. (didn’t I say this place was modern?).

Now, Cameron and I are not morning people, but we made the extra effort to wake up for sunrise every morning.

The rooms are in the perfect spot to watch the sunrise up over Southern Africa. Watching Africa come to life from the banks of the river is magical.

On our first day, we made our way across the river and back into Botswana into the Chobe National Park. Chobe Water Villas organizes trips into the park for guests on either a half or full-day safari basis.

We choose to do a morning game drive and saw a plethora of elephant, newborn impala, vultures, and buffalo. We kept our fingers crossed for a leopard sighting, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t our day.

Chobe National Park has one of Africa’s largest concentrations of game. They have a staggering amount of elephant in the park as well as the rest of the big five. We had a leisurely ride back into Namibia with the team and finished the afternoon with a dip in the infinity pool.

{Read More: Ultimate Safari Clothes Guide: What To Wear On Safari In Africa}

Evenings are a special time on the river as tourists set out for a boat safari into Chobe National Park.

The boat safaris get you up close and personal (but not too close) to the hundreds of hippos, crocs, antelope, and abundant birdlife around the water. All of this, is enjoyed with snacks and sundowner drinks provided by the villas.

Speaking of snacks, I have to mention that the food we were served at Chobe Water Villas was some of the best we’ve had in Africa.

Going with the whole modern theme the food at the lodge is multi-cultural and new era inspired. Breakfast always started with a nice cold plate of croissants, fresh fruit, and cheese while dinner is served in their 36 seater restaurant.

Dinner is always a three-course meal with meat, fish, or vegetarian options and unlike many lodges, food here was an international affair. Dinner and breakfast were fantastic; however, r the real treat was served at lunch for us.

The staff prepared for us a table in the private garden lithesome light food. Salad, charcuterie plate, mac & cheer, plus views equal happiness.

Sunrise to sunset and everything in between at Chobe Water Villas was surreal. Day time activities are filled with wildlife viewing, riverside drinking, and leisure.

Evenings are spent in relaxation as you enjoy the ambiance of the Chobe River with some delicious food.

Book A Stay At Chobe Water Villas

Namibia General Info

• Because we were coming from Namibia we had to cross over the Ngoma border post into Botswana. Both Namibia and Botswana ran smooth border post operations here. US citizens do not need a visa to enter Namibia or Botswana, but be sure to state how long you want to stay in Botswana because the border officials will give you exactly that many days.
• If self-driving expect to pay a road tax fee of 50 Pula. Payable by card at the Botswana border post.
• Chobe Water Villas covers the cost of the park entrance fee into Chobe National Park. If you are not staying at CWV expect to pay 120 Pula for a day pass.
• The gateway to Chobe Water Villas and the rest of Chobe is through Kasane, Botswana. This is a small town, but there are a number of ATM’s, coffee shops, restaurants, and a Spar.
• This is Africa, so watch your car where you park it in Kasane. I would recommend a guarded parking lot.
• Don’t have anything shipped to Kasane. I had to have a few things delivered to me so I was informed Kasane might be the best place to have international packages delivered. After a month, none of my packages were there and one had been signed for under someone named “George.” This is Africa.
• A stay at Chobe Water Villas include full board, drinks, and all activities.