Namibia

Welcome To Namibia

Few countries match Namibia’s incredible natural beauty and vast landscapes. The country’s name derives from its desert, the Namib – one of the world’s oldest deserts stretching inland to the Atlantic Ocean and covering large swathes of Namibia, parts of Angola and South Africa.

Inland, a spine of mountains creates dramatic scenery including the Naukluft Mountains, the Brandberg, Spitzkoppe, Damaraland and the Fish River Canyon.

Namibia is a mostly safe country to visit, and the official language is English. The cost of travel is affordable, like much of southern Africa, and it is a country rich in indigenous and colonial history and thriving opportunities for adventure activities.

Made up of seven cluster regions, with some comprising sub-regions, Namibia is a country of infinite opportunities and diversity, from its topography and people to its culture and wildlife. Yet, despite the variety in its offerings throughout the various regions, Namibia remains one of the most beautiful countries worldwide, offering travellers a kaleidoscope of activities and adventures to enjoy during their stay in the land of contrasts.

Whichever region captures your imagination, you can be assured of a holiday experience second to none. Namibia charms its way into your soul, ensuring that even though you will leave Namibia after your trip, Namibia will never leave you. There is a good chance you will return to this land of endless horizons to explore its hidden treasures further.

Where is Namibia

Namibia is in southern Africa, to the north west of the Republic of South Africa. It shares borders with Botswana to the east, and Angola to the north.

The country also borders Zambia and Zimbabwe along parts of the narrow Caprivi Strip or Zambezi region in the far north-east of the country.

How big is Namibia?

It’s about 825’000 km² in area and has a 1572 km Atlantic ocean coastline. This means it’s larger than any European country, excluding Russia, and nearly the size of Germany and Spain combined.

What is the capital of Namibia?

The capital is Windhoek, which is the country’s administrative, judicial and legislative capital. It’s in the centre of the country in the Khomas Hochland highlands, 1655m above sea-level. The city’s name means ‘windy corner’!

How many people live in Namibia?

The country has a very small population, relative to the size of its land area. In fact, it is the least densely populated country in the world after Mongolia.

This is largely due to the aridity of the country, which makes much of the country essentially uninhabitable. In 2011, the population was 2.1 million. It’s expected to increase to over 2.5 million by 2021.

Namibia Landscape

Namibia’s landscape is its defining natural asset. The country’s surface area covers 824,000 square kilometres. It is one of the driest and most sparsely populated countries on earth – with the Namib Desert in the west and the Kalahari Desert in the east, separated by the Central Plateau. 

The only permanent rivers in the country are the Kunene (Cunene), the Okavango (Cubango), the Mashi (Kwando) and the Zambezi – all of which are on the northern border to Angola and Zambia, and the Orange river which forms the country’s southern border to South Africa. 

The country shares common boundaries with Angola, Botswana, South Africa and Zambia. To the west, the country has a long 500 km (300 mile) coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.

Why visit Namibia?

Namibia lies on the west coast of southern Africa and is a land of incredible diversity and contrasts. It boasts the second second-lowest population density on the globe and in terms of size, is double that of Germany. The landscape is vast, comprised of inaccessible desert and alien-like terrain which supports an extraordinary abundance of wildlife: these are the secrets for Namibia’s incredible luxury safaris. 

The most popular destinations are undoubtedly Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert, where visitors will find dunes melting into the horizon and a gemsbok-dotted landscape.

The Skeleton Coast is frequented by adrenaline junkies in search of the ultimate wilderness adventure littered with shipwrecks, historical rock art and desert-adapted species.

The iconic Etosha National Park, the surrounding reserves and the Waterberg region are no-brainers for your bush safari. With such a diverse range of destinations to see and wonderful places to stay – all that’s left to do is pack your bags and hit the road.

Self-driving is encouraged in this magnificent country, and with so many natural wonders scattered within its borders – it isn’t hard to imagine why.

Be sure to give yourself enough time to stop and explore the culture, its cuisine and all that Namibia has to offer. If time is limited but budget permits, visitors can opt to connect far-flung destinations by swift and convenient charter flights.

HOW TO GET TO NAMIBIA?

International airports in Namibia

Namibia has two international airports: Hosea Kutako International Airport (HKIA / WDH) in Windhoek, the capital, and Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB) on the Atlantic Ocean coastline. The airport in Windhoek is the main airport for international arrivals.

There are direct flights, among others, from South Africa (Johannesburg and Cape Town), Germany (Frankfurt), and Ethiopia (Addis Ababa).

Connections from South Africa are popular for international arrivals, especially from the US, as they are more frequent than from Germany or Ethiopia.

It is also possible to get to Namibia by road. Driving from South Africa, there are land borders, among others, at the remote Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

A more popular border crossing is between Botswana and Namibia. You can cross from Namibia’s Zambezi Region (Caprivi Strip) into Chobe National Park at the Ngoma border.

There is no direct connection between Namibia and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Zambia. But you can cross from Namibia into Botswana and reach Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe via Kasane.

Are there domestic flights in Namibia?

You can travel domestically by plane in Namibia. However, this means you have to charter private planes. We currently don’t offer any options to travel by scheduled domestic flights.

There are a number of airports across Namibia, often used for cargo flights, which are also serviced by tourist charter planes.

If you want to skip the long driving distances on the road, you can opt for a fly-in safari and travel to Namibia by small aircraft such as Cessnas on private charters.

The advantages of Flights around Namibia

The network of charter flights in Namibia as well as our fly-in safaris provide a quick and easy way to explore the country.

They allow you to discover great distances in a relatively short period of time. Flying over Namibia gives one a true understanding and appreciation of its size, especially a flight over the Namib Desert, which looks like a rippling strip of sand and the flight is an experience in itself.

Flights from Sossusvlei in the South of Namibia to Etosha National Park in the North of Namibia, allow you to combine these two most popular destinations in a matter of a few days.

The disadvantages of Flights around Namibia

The first and most obvious disadvantage of flights in and around Namibia is the cost. The great distances involved and the exclusivity of the lodges mean that the planes are small and therefore only take a few guests at a time.

Luggage is limited to between 10kg – 15kg (22lbs – 33lbs) per passengers which must be packed in soft pliable bags, this requires careful and mindful packing, but bear in mind that the lodges do offer laundry services.

The other distinct disadvantage of air flights is that you miss the opportunity to actually explore the country by road and to get a true understanding of the distances and the enormity that is Namibia.

The advantages of road travel around Namibia

The most obvious advantage of road travel around Namibia is the affordability, compared to flights, road travel allows you to explore Namibia at a fraction of the cost. Namibia is scenically spectacular and traveling by road allows you to completely immerse yourselves into the scenery, discover and stop at little places off the beaten track and really get an appreciation of Namibia at your own pace.

Self-Drive Trips in Namibia

Getting around Namibia by rental car on a self-drive trip is one of the most popular options.

Most of these trips start in Windhoek, where there are multiple car rental companies. You can also stock up on supplies at well-stocked supermarkets.

You can rent 2×4 or 4×4 vehicles, fully equipped with camping gear and roof-top tents, or less equipped if you’re staying at lodges and camps.

Namibia is a popular self-drive destination in Southern Africa because it is considered safe and easily accessible.

Guided tours in Namibia

If you prefer not to drive, guided tours are a great way to get around Namibia.

You travel in one of our converted comfortable safari cars. Your guide is also your driver and will handle any logistics and organisational matters so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy.

Another advantage of getting around Namibia on a guided tour is that your guide will share useful information about the flora, fauna, country, culture, and the people of Namibia – they are your window into a new country.

We organise scheduled group tours as well as private guided tours around Namibia.

Top Things to Do in Namibia

Namibia is an absolutely stunning destination, full of natural beauty and fascinating cultural sites. It’s one of the best places in Africa for the classic safari experience – Etosha National Park makes sure of that – but it’s also so much more.

From spotting shipwrecks to soaring among the clouds, this country offers endless opportunities for adventure.

Here are the top things to do in Namibia, whether you’re looking for wildlife, history or thrilling adventures.

Admire the Surreal Scenery of Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei is an iconic spot in Namibia, known for its rust-coloured ridges of sand and mosaics of cracked clay soil. A visit here should be at the top of your to-do list, as it’s one of the country’s most famous and picturesque sites.

If you’re travelling in the warmer months from October to April, you’ll get to see bright desert flowers blanketing the dunes.

In fact, summer might just be the best time to visit Namibia – especially if you want to enjoy Sossusvlei with as few tourists around as possible.

Take a Flying Safari

What’s better than a safari in Namibia? A flying safari over Namibia. Hop on a small plane to get a bird’s eye view of its incredible landscapes. Charter flights will take you to the most remote corners of the country, helping you to discover its best-kept secrets.

In addition to sweeping views and exclusive destinations, a flying safari will allow you to spend more time in each spot – and less time travelling between them.

This means you can hit all the highlights in just a few days, from the middle of the desert to the rugged coast.

See the Shipwrecks of the Skeleton Coast

Namibia’s western coastline is famous for its treacherous waters and dangerous currents… so it’s no wonder that the sand here is littered with shipwrecks.

This desolate landscape is punctuated by decaying masts and hulls, creating a scene unlike any other on earth.

One of the best things to do on a trip to Namibia is simply to stroll along the Skeleton Coast, taking in its stark beauty and listening to the waves crash.

But it’s also a great place to see wildlife, from desert elephants and oryx to rare hyenas and cheetahs. You can also visit the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, a sanctuary that’s home to thousands of Cape fur seals.

Explore the Auas Mountains

Namibia’s highest mountain range is located near the capital city of Windhoek. The Auas mountains are 56 kilometres long and include several famous peaks, including Moltkeblick: the country’s second-highest spot.

Mountaineers and hiking enthusiasts will be right at home here – but if you’d rather stay on level ground, you can always admire the mountains from afar. We recommend posting up at The Olive Exclusive for amazing views of the Auas.

Discover a Diamond Ghost Town

Wandering through the abandoned town of Kolmanskop will transport you back into the not-so-distant past.

After diamonds were discovered here in the early 1900s, the town became a bustling hub of activity. German settlers made a fortune, and traces of their opulence can still be seen here today. 

After a few decades, the diamond supply dwindled – and before long Kolmanskop was empty. Today the buildings lie in ruin, sunken into sand and shadows.

We suggest taking a tour, wandering through the ghostly village and then having a snack at the only cafe for miles.

Get to Know the Himba

Namibia is home to several indigenous groups, but none is more recognisable than the Himba. These semi-nomadic people are known for the bright red otjize paste that women apply to their hair and bodies.

Beyond its striking aesthetic effect, it’s a natural method of cleansing and protecting the skin. You can meet the Himba and learn about their traditional lifestyle on a cultural safari to Kaokoland.

Track Rhinos Through the Desert

Namibia’s Palmwag Concession has the largest population of free-roaming black rhinos in Africa – and we’ll help you see them up close.

Stay in a Meru-style canvas tent at Desert Rhino Camp, where you’ll have the chance to join rhino-tracking expeditions every day.

You’ll also meet the team from the Save the Rhino Trust, and learn about the work they’re doing to protect these incredible animals.

Navigate Fish River Canyon

Although it holds the title of Africa’s largest canyon and Namibia’s longest river, this is one of the lesser-known tourist attractions in Namibia.

That’s good news if you like the idea of hiking, swimming and exploring the ancient ravine without another traveller in sight.

There’s plenty to discover in Fish River Canyon, from natural hot springs to abundant wildlife. We also suggest a flight over the area, so you can take in its dramatic landscapes all at once.

No matter what you’re looking for, this is definitely one of the best places to visit in Namibia.

Admire Ancient Rock Art

Want to see some of the most impressive rock art in southern Africa? In the middle of Damaraland, the open-air gallery of Twyfelfontein features thousands of ancient engravings made by the indigenous San people – making this UNESCO World Heritage Site a must-see in Namibia.

Follow the guided routes to find the famous ‘Lion Man’ and ‘Dancing Kudu’ engravings, as well as depictions of all kinds of animals, humans and more.

Have an Adventure in Swakopmund

In the far northwestern corner of Namibia, Swakopmund is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. You can go kitesurfing, windsurfing or kayaking off the country’s Atlantic coast.

If you prefer to stay on dry land, try dune boarding, quad biking or horse riding – the options are endless. 

Not in the mood for an adrenaline rush? You can also spot all kinds of rare and beautiful birds here, including pink flamingos, or take a trip to nearby Walvis Bay.

Either way, we suggest ending your day with a great meal and a relaxing evening at the Hansa Hotel.

Go on an adrenaline adventure

Go Hot Air Ballooning Over the Namib Desert

Seeing the world’s oldest desert on the ground is impressive enough – but imagine flying above it. You can do exactly that on a hot air balloon flight over the Namib Desert.

This is a truly unforgettable experience, offering jaw-dropping views from exhilarating heights. Due to high temperatures, hot air balloon trips are usually scheduled in the morning.

You may have to set an early alarm, but it’ll be worth it to see the sunrise from your vantage point in the sky. 

Namibia -The Soul of Africa

Namibia is the soul of Africa, characterised by vast open spaces, breathtaking scenery and great contrasts – ocean, dunes, mountains and deserts. This vast desert country of rolling dunes and swirling mists stirs the spirit and moves the heart.

Namibia is so large and sparsely populated that it is possible to discover enormous open spaces without roads, towns, trees or even stones, just the lonely desert wind passing through one of the most enchanting corners of the earth.

Africa’s largest game park, the Namib-Naukluft Park, is a must see when on safari in Namibia, with its magnificent sea of rolling red dunes at Sossusvlei.

Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s great parks in both size and diversity of wildlife. In the country’s far north eastern pocket is the captivating and largely unexplored Caprivi Strip.

• Exploring ancient ruins, historical landmar.
• Immersive cultural experiences, local.
• Hiking, trekking, extreme sports, and out.
• A romantic destination like Paris, Venice.
• Kid-friendly activities, theme parks family.
• Premium accommodations, gourmet.