This Namibia Game park was gazetted as a national park in 1972 first as only a wildlife sanctuary to protect some of the Namibia wildlife endemic species and also act as a breeding ground for the threatened species such as the eland, black rhino, sable and roan antelopes.

The park is located at the foot slopes of the mountain which was named after the springs flowing below on a plateau rising to roughly 1700m above sea level. This part of the country is a truly fascinating destination and an important geological site in Namibia. Some features such as dinosaur tracks and petrified dunes make it almost a must stop for travellers on the way further north.

The plateau region is actually the largest part of the park growing a diversity of 500 different species of flora not seen any where in Namibia. The park’s vegetation is mainly comprised of shrubs, dense broad leafed tree forests with verdant undergrowth, riverine forests and other unique species. The broad-leaf woodlands of the sandy plateau are typical of the sandveld of eastern and north-eastern parts of Namibia. There are also striking silver cluster-leaf with its silver grey foliage, wild syringa and Kalahari apple leaf.

The best time to visit Waterberg for its plants and trees is during the months of September to December when the plants are at full bloom.

Wildlife

Regular sights in the park include rhino, buffalo, rock dassie, klipspringer, giraffe, tsessebe, roan, sable antelopes, wild dog, lesser bush babies, impala, klipspringer, steenbok, gemsbok and impala. The only Cape vulture colony in Namibia lives in the Karakuwisa Mountain on the western edge of the Waterberg plateau.

The park is home to several nocturnal predators such as leopard, cheetah, lion, spotted hyena, caracal and black-backed jackal. Small mammals are also part of the fauna in the park-Damara dik-dik is found near the Bat rest camp as well as the mongoose and the lesser bush babies.

Accommodation

This Namibia national park is located 280 km north of Windhoek and is thus easily accessible from the capital. Accommodation is available at the former Rhenish mission rest camp housing more than 200 people in dormitory accommodation with a fuel station and a canteen for supplies. Camping is also allowed at this rest camp. Attractions near the camp include tombs of German fighters in the Nama Herero uprising of 1904.

Bernabe de la Bat Rest Camp is another option for safari accommodation in the park. This eco-friendly rest camp was named after the first director of Namibia’s Department of Nature Conservation. Accommodation ranges from four and three bed bungalows to deluxe rooms sleeping two people. Bungalows are equipped with a hotplate, refrigerator and kettle, but no crockery, cutlery or cooking utensils. There are also shaded camp sites with communal ablutions and field kitchens.

Other amenities include a swimming pool with a superb view of the cliffs, a restaurant, shop which stocks frozen meat, tinned goods and curios, and a filling station where only petrol is sold.

Namibia is one of the most exciting adventure and holiday safari destinations in Southern Africa. Some of the Namibia National parks and reserves are found in the vast Kalahari desert which is home to more than 56 different species of endemic Namibia wildlife and more than 500 species of birds including endemics like Herero chat, Damara tern, Monteiro’s Hornbill and the rock runner…to mention a few.

Some thing unique about Namibia’s wildlife is the Namib desert habitat…it seem kind if hot and hostile but boasts some of the unique wildlife habitats and endemic species of both flora and fauna.

List of National Parks and Game Reserves in Namibia

Etosha National Park-It is one of the largest parks in Namibia and also one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. this Namibia national park is known for the large herds of elephants and the dense population of predators such as cheetah, lion, spotted hyena, jackal, serval, civet and the endangered African wild dog. More than 110 different species of mammals are found in the park while nearly 350 birds are recorded as being residents and migrants in Etosha.

Namib-Naukluft Park- one of the most exotic wildlife safari destinations in Namibia covering nearly 50,000sq km including habitats like  Sossusvlei, Sesriem, Naukluft Mountains and Sandwich Harbour.

Fishriver Canyon Park- besides being the longest canyon in Africa, the Fish River canyon is a good destination for hiking, wildlife safaris and nature trails. The park comprised of the Ai-Ais Hot Springs Resort, the Fishriver Canyon and the Huns Mountains.

Skeleton Coast Park- this unique Namibia safari park stretches  from the banks of Ugab River in the south for 500km to the Kunene River in the north and covers an area of 16 400km². The attraction is it landscape, its aura of mystery and wildlife.

Cape Cross Seal Reserve-Situated approximately 130km north of Swakopmund, the park was proclaimed to protect up to 23 colonies of Cape Fur seals.

National West Coast Recreation Area- This is a 200km stretch of coastline north of Swakopmund, between the Swakop and Ugab rivers, is renowned for its outstanding angling potential.

Waterberg National Park-located on a rising plateau some 200m above a surrounding sea of bush and savannah, the 405km² Waterberg Plateau Park near Otjiwarongo, is home to some 25 game and 200 bird species.

Mahango Game Reserve -Situated east of Rundu and borders on the perennial Okavango River near the border of Botswana. It is characterised by riverine forests, a broad flood plain and large herds of elephant. the park does not have overnight facilities

Caprivi Game Reserves- Situated to the east of Mahango Game Reserve, the Caprivi is sanctuary to a variety of game species like elephant, roan and kudu. A 4-wheel drive is essential as the terrain is sandy. No overnight facilities exist in the park.  Other game reserves found in the Caprivi strip region include Mamili game reserve and Mudumu game reserve, all in found in Namibia

Khaudum Game Reserve-Situated north of Tsumeb, it protects the northern Kalahari sandveld biome and harbours several big game and bird species.

Hardap Game Reserve-The reserve, near Marienthal, covers an area of 250km² and offers excellent game viewing opportunities.

Daan Viljoen-Close to Windhoek and although small, the park supports a healthy game population and is also a good spot for bird-watching.

The Mudumu National Park is also found in the Caprivi Strip region of Namibia near the border with Botswana.  The park covers an area of 1 010sq km of dominantly mopane woodlands and savannah grasslands. The Kwando River borders the park to the west.

Wildlife

430 species of bird have been recorded in the Mudumu National Park which is nearly 70% of  the total population of birds on any Namibia safari tour. Regular sights include buffalo, elephant, zebra, crocodile, lion, hippopotamus, rare sitatunga and red lechwe among others

Accommodation

Some of the options for Namibia safari accommodation in Mudumu National Park include Mazambala island lodge, Namushasha lodge and camp Kwando among others. these and other lodges offer overnight options like bungalows, rustic thatched chalets, camping and adventure activities like 4WD activities, game drives, safari walks, fishing, boating and excellent dining

This Namibia National park is a large wetland in remote parts of Nkasa, Lupala islands and near the rivers of Kwando and Linyanti river in the area of the Eastern Caprivi strip. This game reserve covers and area of 320sq km making it one of the largest wetlands in the country.

Location

Mamili is centered on the Nkasa and Lupala islands on the Kwando and Linyanti rivers in the south-western corner of East Caprivi. ‘

The reserve is accessible by road from Mudumu although the rainy season makes it hard to criss the flooded area. The best time to visit the game reserve is during the dry season.

Wildlife

Some of the mammals in the park include sitatunga and red lechwe, buffalo, wild dog and it is the last stronghold of the remnant population of Puka. Wattled cranes have been recorded breeding here.

Caprivi Game reserve is from remote the north eastern region of Namibia near the border with Botswana. The Game reserve is nearly 5715sq km stretching along the banks of the Okavango river for more than 170km to the Kwando river. It is bordered by Mahango Game reserve on the other side of the kavango river.

The vegetation in the park is dominated by broad leafed woodlands, savannah grasslands, open wetlands and marsh on the river banks. Several water streams and river flow in the 32km wide reserve with a few islands in the river

Caprivi Strip

The Game reserve gets its name from the fingerlike piece of land along Botswana’s northern border is known as The Caprivi Strip. The Caprivi Strip is intersected by two major rivers, the Okavango and Kwando Rivers, while the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers form the north-east and south-east boundaries.

The area is highly infested with mosquitoes thus visitors are encouraged to carry mosquito nets and ointments to prevent mosquito bites.

Wildlife

Several species of mammals habit in the riverine forests and open savannah grasslands in the reserve with examples like duiker, sitatunga, buffalo, elephant, cheetah, wild dog, lion, leopard, hippo, and roan and crocodiles…to mention a few.

Accommodation

Accommodation in the Caprivi strip area and in reserve include Nkwazo lodge, Hakusembe lodge and Kaisosizi river lodge which are all overlooking the Kavango river. Each offers options for luxury accommodation, restaurants, well furnished chalets, swimming pools and a wide variety of adventure activities such as boating, canoeing, bird watching and adventures.

Mahango Game reserve is one of the smallest game reserves in Namibia located in the north east of the country, near the border with Botswana. This reserve covers an area of about 300sq km on the banks of the Okavango River. Bordering the park is another picturesque Namibia game reserve, Caprivi Game reserve on the other side of the river

Wildlife

Large game species of wildlife found in Mahango Namibia game reserve include elephant, rhino, giraffe and buffalo, as well as lion, leopard and cheetah. Some of the other species of animals in the reserve include sable, hippo, wild dig, lechwe, sitatunga, roan antelope and others. The river banks are always infested with large crocodiles to be ware of.

Game viewing is good during the dry season (June to October) as animals congregate around the river bank and near water pools. Game drives are only on robust 4X4 vehicles and trucks

Bird watching is during the months of November to March with sights like pelican, roller, sun birds, storks and other water endemics that migrate from Okavango delta and nearby protected areas.

The Mahango Game Reserve is open throughout the year although visitors are advised to take precautions against malaria and bilharzias. There is no accommodation in the park but several private lodges are located in the near vicinity.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available in several safari lodges, and camps with examples like Mahangu Lodge, Ndhovu safari Lodge,   Divava Okavango safari lodge and Lodge, Popa falls Lodge among others.

The Namib Desert is often referred to as the world’s oldest desert and it is from it that Namibia gets its name. This desert runs from south west Angola, northern South Africa and  into much of the western part of Namibia, forming part of Namib-Naukluft National Park, the largest Game reserve in Africa.

Namib desert Facts

The name “Namib” is of Nama origin and means “vast place“. It is considered to be the oldest desert in the world having survived more than 50 million years! Although the desert has one of the most harsh weather conditions in the world, there are several plants and animals that are entirely endemic to this desert. Plants grow on the rocky outcrops, sand dunes, on the river banks and on the gravel plains.

Namib Desert Africa is home to over 600 species of plants from the southern section that receives winter rains. South Namib desert vegetation extends into the northern part of  the Great Karoo to the banks of Orange river and the coastal town of Luderitz.

From the central part of the Namib Desert are 400 species of plants growing to the coast of the Atlantic Ocean in the west and to the escarpment in the east. Much of the vegetation in the central part grows in the valley of Kuiseb (from the south) and Huab rivers (in the north).  It also in the central section of the desert that you’ll find Namib Naukluft Park as well as the Naukluft Mountains.

Some of the species from the northern part of the Namib Desert are more than 1,000 although the north is the driest part of the desert. It however receives fog that provides reliable moisture and as with the central Namib area, a fog belt can stretch some 20 and 30 km inland and on occasions further inland.

Weather

Erratic annual rainfall compounds the regional aridity. Rain can only fall over the Namib Desert when warm, moist air is blown onto the eastern side of the African subcontinent by south-east trade winds. It is highly seasonal and coincides with weak South Atlantic anticyclone activity.

Coastal fog regulates the climatic extremes. Desert rainfall is sporadic and unpredictable. Fog isn’t. It is a most reliable source of moisture and although the amount of water captured from a blanket of fog is relatively small, plants and animals have adapted to the amounts on offer. But like rain, it is life-giving.

Attractions in Namib Desert

The Namib-Naukluft National Park extends over a large part of the Namib Desert and is the largest game reserve in Africa. The park is a combination of the Namib Desert Park and the Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park as well as sections of the Diamond Area. The park area is approximately 50,000sq km with the main attractions being Sossusvlei, Sandwich Harbour and the Naukluft hiking, Swakop and Kuiseb River Canyons

Due to its inaccessibility, the park is rarely visited except by those tourists who are enthusiastic about nature, desert plants and the undulating sand dunes. Access to the park is by the dust roads except for 60 km murram stretch from the Sesriem gate to Sossusvlei. Alternatively there are Namibia flights from Windhoek, some 280km away with the airstrip in the central part of the desert or Swakopmund and Walvis Bay at the north end of the desert.

The Naukluft Mountain Park was initially created as a sanctuary for the Hartmann’s mountain zebras. The area is extremely beautiful with an interesting long history of colonial times by the Germans. The Naukluft Mountains were the base of Hendrik Witbooi, an important player in the history of Namibia, who terrorized the German Colonizers from his well protected mountain strongholds.

Sossusvlei

The prominent attraction in the Namib Desert is the famous Sossusvlei. High orange sand dunes surround vivid white salt pans, creating a fascinating landscape you don’t want to miss on Namibia safari holidays. Trekking on one of the dunes or walking to dead vlei and taking a 4WD trail on the sand dunes is an adventure in itself.

On the coast Sandwich Harbour is a paradise for birders and nature lovers visiting Namibia. The lagoon is fed by fresh water and is a sanctuary for large numbers of coastal birds. It is only accessible by 4X4 vehicles since you need to cross the large Namib Desert sand dunes that stretch to the Atlantic Ocean coast. Fishing in the lagoon is allowed from April to early January although heavily monitored.

Visitors to Swakopmund should take time to visit the Welwitschia trail. This drive through the Namib Desert takes a few hours and visits the Moon Landscape the Welwitschia Plains and the Namib desert oasis of Goanikontes. The route has several numbered beacons which identify areas of particular interest, a map and brochure as well as permits to visit the area should be obtained from the MET office in Swakopmund.

Accommodation

Namibia’s  tourists to the desert can find ample accommodation in the Namib Desrt with choices ranging from the rustic safari camps to luxury desert lodges.

There are campsites at Kuiseb Bridge, Homeb, Mirabib, Bloedkoppie, Ganab, Vogelfederberg or Kriess-se-Russhould prove to be very exhilarating. All of these camp sites offer very basic facilities but a camping permit is required if you intend to spend the night under the desert sky.

Some of the classified lodges and camps in Namibian Desert include Agama River Camp, Betesda Rest Camp, Desert Camp, Desert Homestead, Hoodia Desert Lodge, Kulala Desert Lodge, Kulala Widerness Camp, Le Mirage Desert Lodge and Spa, Little Kulala, Little Sossus Lodge, Moon Mountain Lodge, Mountain Homestead, Namib Desert Lodge, Namib-Naukfalt Lodge, Sesriem Campsite, Sossus Dune Lodge, Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Sossusvlei Lodge and  Weltervrede Rest Camp.

The Kalahari Desert in southern Africa is a name to reckon with when it comes to Safaris and wildlife adventures in Namibia. It is preferably called Kgalagadi Desert in Botswana. In Namibia it is identified as a desert because of the dry grassland plains that stretch for several miles, sandy soils that don’t hold water that comes very few times a year.

Kalahari Desert Facts

The Kalahari Desert map stretches across 7 countries that include Botswana, Zambia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Angola and DR Congo. Much of the desert is shared by Namibia, Botswana and South Africa but the overall area covered by this desert is approximated at 900,000sq km.

The total area of the Kalahari Desert is covered by raising sand dunes, trees, dry grasslands and ephemeral rivers and fossil streams. There are a variety of Kalahari desert plants growing in different part of the desert. In the south are Kalahari camel thorn trees, red ebony and other acacias while silver terminalia and shrubs are common in the central part.  The north receives more rains than any other part of the Kalahari thus its rich vegetation of  acacia, heavy savannah and dry woodland of Transvaal Teak, Zambezi teak, wild seringa, manketti, shiwi and other magnificent timber species. Large numbers of Tamboti trees grow in the Grootfontein area. But the Kalahari’s true lure lies in it’s eerie silence and solitude, both in the sparsely grassed plains and open spaces, also home to huge numbers of game and other animals.

Kalahari People

The Kalahari has a small, but scattered population due to scanty rainfall patterns and largely dry weather conditions. In Namibia and South Africa, there are large ranches rearing sheep and the ostrich while private ranches are what condition the Kalahari Desert map for Botswana.  Still in Botswana, the land is mainly used on a communal basis, with the inhabitants raising goats and cattle.

The main inhabitants of the Kalahari Namibia desert are the Kalahari Bushmen.  A few of the remaining Bushmen are used as cheap farm labor on private ranches within the desert. The bushmen of the Kalahari were famed in the early 1980 film productions such as ‘Gods Must Be Crazy I & II‘, among many other films that were made to try to sensitize the Kalahari population to leave the desert for more habitable places else where in Namibia.

But the San Bushmen are a proud people, and are keen to demonstrate their origins and knowledge of living in the bushveld. They still retain some specific cultural and linguistic characteristics such as the very interesting and unique ‘click’ language, and listening to is a wonderful experience in itself.

There are the several rock paintings  in caves and rock shelters all over southern Africa that show that these bush men have lived in such areas for a long time. In Namibia, excellent examples of Bushman rock art can be found in the Damaraland region.

Weather

There are small amounts of rainfall and the summer temperature is very high. It usually receives 76–190 mm of rainfall annually. The surrounding Kalahari Basin covers over 2,500,000 square kilometres extending farther into Botswana, Namibia and South Africa, and encroaching into parts of Angola, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The only permanent river, the Okavango, flows into a delta in the northwest, forming marshes that are rich in wildlife. Ancient dry riverbeds—called omuramba—traverse the Central

Northern reaches of the Kalahari and provide standing pools of water during the rainy season. Previously havens for wild animals from elephant to giraffe, and for predators such as lion and cheetah, the riverbeds are now mostly grazing spots, though leopard or cheetah can still be found.

Kalahari Desert Wildlife

The Kalahari has a number of game reserves that include the Central Kalahari Game Reserve in Botswana which is the world’s second largest protected area. Khutse Game Reserve in Namibia, Kalahari Gemsbok National Park of South Africa and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park that stretches into the borders of Namibia, Botswana and South Africa are the other game reserves from the Kalahari Desert. Animals in the Kalahari Desert include brown hyenas, lions, Kalahari meerkats, giraffes, warthogs, jackals, eland, gemsbok, springbok, hartebeest, steenbok, kudu,duiker and many species of birds and reptiles

Accommodation

There is indeed plenty of accommodation within the Kalahari Desert giving you no excuse of not visiting Namibia Kalahari or even Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. You’ll find every thing from luxury Kalahari Desert hotels, standard game lodges, tented safari camps and bush camps.

Namibia Hotels and Lodges in Northern part of the Kalahari Desert include Aru Game Lodge, Anhem Cave Rest Camp, Eningu Clay House, Kalahari Bush Breaks, Kiripotib Guest Farm and Sandune Lodge.

From the Southern part of the Namibia Kalahari desert are Aub Lodge, Bagatelle Kalahari Lodges, Bitterwasser Lodge, Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge, Hardap Dam Resort, Kalahari Anib Lodge, Kalahari Farmhouse, Surricate Kalahari Tented Camp and Zebra Kalahari Lodge.

The Skeleton Coast is Namibia’s infamous tourist attraction that is located in the northern region to the border on the Atlantic Ocean.  It starts south of the Orange River in Angola occupying much of the Namibian Atlantic ocean coast for an incredible 200km. Much of the skeleton coast area lies in the vast Namib Desert region sections of which include the Namib-Naukluft Park in the south, the Skeleton Coast Park in the north and Iona Park in Angola.

The skeleton coast is bordered by Swakopmund in the north which is predominantly lying in rocky deserts and sand dunes from Torra bay to the river beds of Hoarusib and Kunene. Kaokoland and the Himba people also occupy the northern border to skeleton coast. In the south are the Damara people and the diamond Area of Luderitz.

Skeleton coast is an interesting collection of aged ship wrecks, rocky outcrops near Spencer Bay, wildlife and skeletons of dead animals.

Skeleton Coast National park

This Namibian safari game park is located north of the Namib Desert on the border with Namib-Naukluft National park between Ugab and Kunene River. The park is 16,000sqkm and part of the notable features here include the agate mountain salt pans, cape Fria seals, the castle of Hoarisib and the west Coast Recreation area.

The different plants found in this park grow on sand dunes thanks to the thick fog and moisture that forms here. Besides the seal colonies, there are baboons, desert elephants, giraffes, black rhinos, oryx, ostrich, brown hyena, lions and the springbok that live in the lush bushy area of the Skeleton Coast National Park.

Best time to Visit

The Skeleton coast of Namibia is often visited throughout the year but it is very important to note the changes in weather for the coast. The summer starts around October and ends in May with more friendly weather conditions and temperatures between30-36ºC. The mornings are quite warm but the fog persists for much of the early morning hours.

The nights are under clear sky filled with thousands of twinkling stars. May to September marks the winter time when temperature drops to freezing point especially in the morning.

While visiting skeleton coast, pack light safari clothing like long sleeved shirts and trousers, sun glasses, comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat and a pair of  binoculars

Getting there

Skeleton coast safaris are arranged by several Namibia Safari companies and Tour operators in Windhoek the capital of Namibia. You can choose between a private safari by vehicle or using an aircraft charter from Windhoek International Airport or Eros Airport.

Skeleton Coast Accommodation

Accommodation from the skeleton coast is from exclusive private owned Namibia safari lodges and camps such as from the self catering Lagoon Cottages in Walvis Bay, Namib Shore Guesthouse and self catering camping at Skeleton Coast Camp. The camp has comfortable bedding, bucket showers, flush toilets. Luckily, supplies like vegetables, soft drinks and wine are also supplied.The fishing coast at Terrace bay is another exciting place to find accommodation in bungalows and at Torra Bay camp if booked early enough.

Namibia hunting safaris are one of the best ways to tour and experience the best of Namibia safari and travel. Hunting in Africa is fast growing as a fascinating activity for wildlife safaris predominantly done in Botswana, Kruger National park in South Africa and in Tanzania for Serengeti National park.

There are several ways in which Africa hunting safaris are done among which are bow hunting, wing shooting, riffle hunting, trophy hunting and the like. The game that is always hunted fro will include plains game like antelopes, leopards, cheetahs, wildebeest and the like.

Hunting safaris in Namibia is regulated by Namibia hunter Professional association (NAPHA) and more than 80% of all Namibia hunting safari are managed by professional hunters. You can choose to hunt by yourself accompanied by a professional hunter or with a friend and one PH.

Namibia hunting sessions always begin in February and ends in November giving Namibia safari tourists more than 8 months of incredible hunting sessions. The hunting period may however be disturbed by weather changes but all the same you’ll have unbeatable game viewing

Namibia Hunting Area

Namibia’s main hunting area is located in the central region of Namibia in the Dordabis Conservancy with more than 200 sq km of privately owned hunting ground. In total, Dordabis conservancy is 400sq km ranking as the largest of all Africa hunting safari territories. There is so much to do in Dordabis more than just the Africa hunting expeditions. You can choose to walk or trek in the beautiful acacia trees, through the open Namibian savanna, or climb the beautiful Klawerberg Mountain and enjoy panoramic views over the unspoiled African veldt.

Twenty-two species of African game occur in abundance, including the Kudu, Oryx, Zebra, Blesbok, Hartebeest, Springbok, Warthog, Eland and Wildebeest. Birds such as the guinea fowl, Namaqua sandgrouse, turtle dove, Burchell’s sandgrouse and the laughing dove are among the birds that are often put on Namibia hunting safaris

Ngarangombe conservancy is yet Namibia hunting area located 12 miles north of  Waterburg Game reserve. It is actually 617 ac and is popular with hunting trips for the eland that seems to roam the vast savannah plains here at free will.

Trophy hunting in Namibia

Trophy hunts are an exciting way to go on Namibia hunting expeditions although hunting is limited to aged/old game. You may use a riffle, bow or wing shoot for Namibia trophy hunting. It is not the trophies that matter most for Africa hunting safaris but the experience, determination and expertise on the hunt. Hunting by rifle is only conducted and allowed on foot but the animals are often identified while driving the 4wd trucks.

Your PH will often help you in the shooting positioning and also assist in the shooting itself. On targeting and shooting the animal, of course praises are due and your trophy will be taken to the camp or lodge and take picture with it.  It is an interesting and memorable experience!

Hunting safaris in Namibia may require that you take prior booking with a good Namibia hunting safari companies or operators in order to make your Namibia safari a memorable experience. There are several safari companies that can arrange your Africa hunting safari in Namibia but you have do some homework in reviewing the best Namibia safari company that does the best job when it comes to hunting safaris Namibia.

Swakopmund is a famous Namibia city off the coast of Namibia in the north west district of Erongo. The town actually occupies some 193 sq miles of a beach resort and is doted with ancient German architecture. In German, the name Swakopmund is translated as mouth of Swakop.

Swakopmund is ranked among the fastest growing towns and tourist attractions of Namibia. As a beach resort, Swakopmund is particularly popular for its December Namibia holidays thanks to the cool weather and its set of incredible Namibia tourism attractions.

The city lies in the beautiful section of the Namib Desert referred to as the West Coast recreation area in wind swept sand dunes, palm fringed beaches and tree lined streets

Attractions in Swakopmund

Swakop river delta defines life in Swakopmund. Although this river is dry for most of the time, occasional rains can sometime cause it to flood but it is nothing to worry about when you visit Namibia. Henties Bay and the Cape Cross Seal Reserve in the north part of Swakopmund are the most famous fishing villages but watch out for the foul smell that will greet you once you are here. At the Cape Cross reserve are several seals that you’ll find mounted on the rock. The skeleton Coast National park lies in the further northern part of Swakopmund and although it is an infamous place to visit in Namibia, it’s listed on Namibia’s tourism destinations.

Swakopmund museum is a highlight of tours in Swakopmund and houses more than 50 different items and art works that show the history and evolution of Swakopmund as a town and Namibia as a country. The nearby Rossing mine located east of the city centre is an interesting palce to add on your Swaopmund Namibia tours.

Swakopmund Snake Park boasts a good number of the poisonous reptiles you’ll find in Namibia in addition to some few amphibians like frogs. The snake park is open every day and closes around 17h00. You can visit the park at 4pm and see how these reptiles are fed. Welwitschia is a famous tree species that has been an identity for Swakopmund as a city and is one of the oldest Namibia Tree species that grows to an average age of 500-600 years.

Buildings and monuments of German architecture are an interesting feature of Swakopmund streets and they include the Hohenzollern Building, the Marine memorial, the War memorial in memory of those killed in World War 2, Princess Rupprecht House originally a military hospital now a private guest house. The Kaserne buildings that were formerly used as army barracks have designs similar to Alte Feste in Windhoek and Fort Namutoni in Etosha. The old Swakopmund Prison is open to tourists every day.

Swakopmund Hansa brewery is friendly place for Namibia’s tourist offering free beers to all people that visit the brewery. Other places to visit in Swakopmund include Swakopmund Railway station that was completed in 1901, Deutsche Evangelical Church and the old Swakop Lighthouse standing at 20 meters.

Best time to visit

Most morning Swakopmund is shrouded in dense awesome fog that comes inland for approximately 30 km and feeds the desert-dwelling plants and animals. This usually lifts before midday and days are usually warm and sunny. If the easterly wind is coming the city will get a great sand-raging.

December holidays are the best time to visit Swakopmund for Namibia holidays but the beach is always crowded with holiday makers. This marks the summer holidays and the weather in Swakopmund is cool around this time

Things to do

For individuals thinking about adventure activities Swakopmund offers sand boarding, quad biking, dune carting, parachuting, hot air ballooning, shark fishing and fishing. Walking is another way you can choose to experience the sand dunes of Swakopmund, the tree lined streets and the beach resorts.

Swimming at the Swakopmund coast is another of the activities you can enjoy in this Namibia tourist town but as a caution, the water can be quite cold and freezing fro some days.

Getting there

Swakopmund is included on just about every Namibian tour itinerary, and it’s quite rightly considered one of the country’s highlights. This Namibia town is just 280km west of the capital Windhoek. There is a bus with daily travel schedules to Swakopmund from Windhoek and also an overnight train to Windhoek.

There is a small airstrip in Swakopmund that serves charter flights from Windhoek airport and another at Walvis Bay located just 30km outside Swakopmund city centre.

Swakopmund Accommodation

Swakopmund tours never disappoint when it comes to the range of accommodation. There are plenty of Swakopmund Namibia hotels to choose from such as Hansa Hotel, Hotel Eberwein, Hotel Europa Hof, Hotel Schweizerhaus and many others.

For cheap Swakopmund accommodation, try out facilities at Swakopmund Municipal Camp, Cornerstone Guesthouse, An Der Mole Beach resort, Central guesthouse, the Secret garden Guesthouse, the Boat House Bed and Breakfast and Dunenblick Alle la Mer among several other choices.

Namibia continues to be a great pristine African Safari destination giving any tourist on African safari the chance to discover a pure untouched land. Huge red deserts, traditional cultures, beautiful people along with a wealthy diversity of wildlife really are a couple of from the secrets that Namibia Safari and tours have to offer. After numerous many years of ranking high on the African travel Guide, Namibia is quick turning out to be a frequent holiday destination for travelers worldwide.

Almost all activities for Namibia Safari begin in the capital, Windhoek, where most travelers fly in to the Eros International Airport or at Windhoek Hosea International Airport (WDH). There are however several other smaller airports in Namibia where you’ll get charter domestic schedules and flights especially of you are looking at Namibia safari travel.

Namibia Travel

An easy way view Namibia is really by self drive safari. For Namibia Safaris, we recommend that you get a car or rent one from any Namibia travel and tour operator. Having a personal car will let you explore the best of Namibia safaris and travel with destinations like Namibia Caprivi Strip and Swakopmund ranked among the recommended drives.

In case you are scared they are driving, the railroad presents an excellent method of view Namibia. You’ll be able to view all of the spectacular vistas and regions of Namibia in the luxuries from the air-conditioned train. Railway vacation packages in Namibia are available for each family in addition to particular travelers. You’ll be able to get railway outings over the Namibia or just focus on a specific region.

Attractions in Namibia

From central Namibia travel are sights like Erongo Mountains and Karibis, the Dmaraland attractions and the vast Kalahari Desert that stretches from central Namibia towards the east of the border with Botswana.

To uncover typical African wildlife, vacation to east Namibia. The china of Namibia hosts Katima Mulilo, the suburbs situated within the Caprivi Strip, a narrow protrusion east of Namibia’s border. Its abundant, jungle landscape hosts several types of wild birds in addition to apes. East of Katima Mulilo may be the Waterberg Plateau Park, savannah scenery, additionally a habitat for animals like tigers and rhinoceros.

From northern Namibia is the popular Etosha Namibia National park that attracts some considerable Namibia tourists every year. While visiting Etosha Park, look out for the beautiful Epupa Falls, Tsumeb and the wildlife that lives in this area

On the Namibia coast are interesting attractions like the Skeleton coast, Henties Bay and Walvis Bay. The Fish river canyon is a sight that you can not miss in case you are visiting Namibia.

Namibia Hotels and Accommodation

Namibia hotels and safari lodges are found in almost the every Namibia national park, such as the Namib-Naukluft Park within the Namib Desert, the Seafood River Canyon in addition to Etosha National Park. In the numerous impressive Eco lodges, Sossusvlei Lodge is among the most effective. It’s situated round the fringe of the Namib and offers activities, activities and lodging inside a wild desert landscape.

Etosha National Park hosts the Mokuti Lodge, an excellent oasis getting luxurious lodging established from the robust desert scenery. Visitors to Etosha mustn’t neglect a visit to the Kuiseb River, which winds with the park coming towards the Chesapeake Bay. Namibia holiday info accessible online provides you with information on vacation deals around Etosha, including offers using the Mokuti Lodge, Onguma safari Camping and Taleni Village.

Namibia Holidays and Safari may not be your number one African Safari choice but when you choose to visit Namibia, you will never be disappointed. Besides the several tourist destinations that dot the country-from the arid Kalahari Desert sand dunes to the Skeleton Coast on the Atlantic Ocean, Namibia has several hotels and accommodation options to enjoy.

Windhoek Namibia Hotels

Windhoek is the capital city of Namibia and also the biggest town in Namibia. Windhoek Hotels Namibia will offer you a number of  Namibia Hotels at different pocket friendly prices yet with a wide range of facilities.

Some of the hotels in Windhoek Namibia are first class/five star luxury facilities and these include Kalahari Sands hotel and Casino, Hotel Protea Furstenhof and Windhoek Country club Resort. These normally have 24/7 room service, well stocked bar, spacious lounge, restaurants, swimming pool, satellite television, and gift shops among the wide range of hotel facilities. Rates for Windhoek Namibia four star and Luxury Hotels are between R 1500 and R 2000, however there is great value for money.

Other Windhoek Hotels and accommodation options include Olive Grove, Etango Ranch and Guest Farm, Hotel Heinitzburg, The Elegant Guesthouse, Kalahari Anib Lodge, Roof of Africa Hotel, Safari Court Hotel, Auas City Hotel, Eros Bed and Breakfast and Hotel Thuringerhof among others.

Namibia hotel packages, as well as Namibia hotel and resorts booking is definitely pre- reserved online about the formerly pointed out website. You will be handed an in depth Namibia hotel cost comparison there to make sure that you’ll try to possess Namibia hotel least expensive prices.

Swakopmund Namibia Hotels

Swakopmund is another of Namibia’s prime destinations and there are several Swakopmund Hotels with ample Namibia safari accommodation and overnight facilities. Some of the luxury Namibia safari options to choose from in Swakopmund include Hansa Hotel, Hotel Eberwein, Hotel A La Mer, Hotel Deutsches Haus, Hotel Europa Hof and the SeaSide Hotel and Spa. Cheaper accommodation in Swakopmund is available from Swakop Lodge, Cornerstome Guesthouse, The Siltz, Secret Gardens Guesthouse, Deo Villa and Beach lodge with Namibia accommodation ranging around R490-700.

There are several other Namibia hotels and accommodation options from Walvis Bay, near the Fish River Canyon and from all major town and cities in Namibia

The Namibia tour operator may recommend other steps you can take within Namibia. You may like to attempt safari, or visit the beach areas lower the Atlantic Sea. You may wish to visit central Namibia and reside in considered one of hotels inside the heart of Namibia. Your Namibia travel guide can provide you with numerous concepts. He may recommend vacation  to Namib-Naukluft Park, an environmental preserve within the Namib Desert. All normally, this is incorporated inside your Namibia hotel holiday package.

You’ll be able to find any Namibia hotels and accommodation holiday package online that will definitely include Namibia flights and Namibia safari tours and travel. It’s simple only to search for Namibia hotels online but remember to take a look at reviews of previous travelers to Namibia and check out their recommendations.

Namibia receives thousands of visitors both for business and tourism and many of then land in the main international airport located in Windhoek the capital 45km from the city centre.

Namibia has 8 airports run by Namibia Airports Company (NAC) Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek (WUD), EROS international airport and other domestic airports; Walvis Airport, Ludderitz Airport, Keetmanshoop Airport, Rundu Airport and Katima Mulilo Airport.

Air Namibia is the national air carrier for Namibia with flights from Windhoek to several African destinations like Lusaka Zambia, Cape Town, Luanda, and Johannesburg and also with domestic flights schedules to Walvis Bay, Ondangwa, Katima Mulilo and other destinations. It also has flights to Europe (Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Rome, Salzburg, London, Milan, Amsterdam, Kiev, Helsinki and other major cities around the world.

South African Airways has direct flights to Windhoek Namibia. Other fliers to Namibia include British Airways, Mango, LTU International Airways, Air Berlin.com has cheap tickets to Windhoek Namibia, TAAG, Malaysia Airlines and other small aircrafts. Book your flights to Windhoek Namibia to have early discount Windhoek tickets, airfare discounts and good hotel deals on Namibia safari holiday packages if you book through Namibia tour and Travel Operators.

Namibia Travel

The Namib Desert is an extension of the vast Kalahari Desert the runs from the east. Although the desert covers much of Namibia, there is life from areas like the Fish River Canyon, which is the second largest canyon in the world, Waterberg Plateau Park, from the abundant Etosha National park and Namib-Naukuft Park from Windhoek the capital city. There are a total of 7 national parks awaiting for a tourist to explore.  Some of the sights include hyenas, flamingos, jackals, Big Five, geckos, snakes and so much more…you have to be here to discover Namibia!

Other interesting places in Namibia include Swakopmund, its beaches, the great St.Mary Cathedral, Parliamnet gardens, Ink Palace and much more.

Namibia is one of the leading destinations on African Safari for southern Africa. Getting to work with a registered Namibia safari company or tour operator is as important as finding the best Namibia safari and holiday Package.
Think of a preferred Namibia safari itinerary such a excursions to Swakopmund, to Windhoek the capital city, visiting Etosha National Park for Hunting safari, there is so much more that a tour company in Namibia can do. Relax and take off the pressure of knowing your day to day activities and let them take you on a ride.
It is virtually crucial that you do homework on the tour company you intend to use by reviewing blogs, articles and recommendations of different tourists who have been to Namibia before.
Integrate your priorities into suggestions made by the tour company and make sure that details of your trip are clear! Look out for dubious Namibia Travel agents as these often cheat you on the places you are supposed to visit.
Remember that there are different Namibia safari and holiday packages such as luxury safari holidays to Budget Namibia safaris. All holiday packages to Namibia normally include flights to Namibia, Namibia hotels and accommodation, transfer and tours. (As discussed with the Namibia travel agent). Booking and reservations for Namibia safaris can be done prior to your arrival online or by calling your travel agent.
Finding the best Namibia tour and travel agent is however not easy. All tour and travel companies are registered with Namibia tourist board (NTB) and should give you real value for many. Some of them are listed here

Adozu Tours & Safaris
P.O.Box 2380
Swakopmund
Tel: +264 (0)64 402021
Fax: +264 (0)64 402618
adozu@mweb.com.na

Africa Adventure Tours & Safaris
P O Box 1999
Swakopmund
Tel : +264 (0)64 406038
Fax : +264 (0)64 406036

African Extravaganza Data
P O Box 22028
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 263082
Fax : +264 (0)61 215356

African Footprints Tours
P O Box 1931
Windhoek
Tel +264 (0)61 225659
Fax +264 (0)61 225864

African Wanderer Tours & Safaris
P O Box 25106
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 233 394
Fax : +264 (0)61 259 524
Cell : +264 (0)81 303 5433

Atlantic Aviation cc
P O Box 465
Swakopmund
Tel : +264 (0)64 404749
Fax : +264 (0)64 405832

Bona Safaris
P O Box 80825
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 252044
Fax : +264 (0)61 252044

Calabash Personalised Namibian Safaris
P O Box 31324
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 228728
Fax : +264 (0)61 228127

Chameleon Safaris Namibia
P O Box 6107
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 247668
Fax : +264 (0)61 247668

Charly’s Desert Tours
P O Box 1400
Swakopmund
Tel : +264 (0)64 404341
Fax : +264 (0)64 404821

Cheetah Tours and Safaris
P O Box 23075
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 230287
Fax : +264 (0)61 230286

Coastways Tours
P O Box 77
Lüderitzbucht
Tel : +264 (0)63 202002
Fax : +264 (0)63 202003
Cell : +264 (0)81 122 9336

Crazy Kudu Safaris
P O Box 99031
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 222636
Fax : +264 (0)61 255074

Diamond Tours Namibia
P O Box 90760
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 221236
Fax : +264 (0)61 228218
Cell : +264 (0)81 129 0001

Eagles Rock Tours & Safaris
P O Box 6176
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 234542
Fax : +264 (0)61 257122

Erongo Plateau Camp & Safaris
P O Box 1940
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 221567
Fax : +264 (0)61 221567

Explore Namibia
P O Box 20230
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)81 305 2924
Fax : +264 (0)84 725 1094

Fire Lily Tours
P O Box 20810
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 233206
Fax : +264 (0)61 233360
Cell : +264 (0)81 124 7452

Foxtrot Tours
P O Box 3
Otavi
Tel : +264 (0)61 224491
Fax : +264 (0)67 234687

Frantic Naturalist Tours and Safaris
P O Box 2216
Swakopmund
Cell : +264 (0)81 203 1334

Globe Electrical Centre
Oshakati
Tel : +264 (0)65 224356
Fax : +264 (0)65 224626
Cell : +264 (0)81 256 1972

Gecko Safaris
P O Box 533
Walvis Bay
Tel : +264 (0)64 207421
Fax : +264 (0)64 207421

Ghost Town Tours
P O Box 305
Lüderitzbucht
Tel : +264 (0)63 204031
Fax : +264 (0)63 204031
Cell : +264 (0)81 128 4336

Habari Safaris
P O Box 459
Swakopmund
Tel : +264 (0)64 404544
Fax : +264 (0)64 404544

Hinterland Safaris
P O Box 80249
Windhoek
Tel / Fax: +264 (0)61 252 662
Cell : +264 (0)81 127 9971 / +264 (0)81 124 7662

Inshore Safaris
P O Box 2444
Walvis Bay
Tel : +264 (0)64 202609
Fax : +264 (0)64 202198

Kaokohimba Safaris
P O Box 11580
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 222378
Fax : +264 (0)61 222378

Levo Tours & Chalets
P O Box 1860
Walvis Bay
Tel : +264 (0)64 207555
Fax : +264 (0)64 200709
Cell : +264 (0)81 129 6270

Loeto Day Tours
P O Box 22711
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 220868
Fax : +264 (0)61 220868

Mabaruli African Safaris
P O Box 23024
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 301563
Fax : +264 (0)61 301563
Cell : +264 (0)81 141 1024

Magic Bus Safari
P O Box 23658
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 259485
Fax : +264 (0)61 259485
Cell : +264 (0)81 129 8093
Mu Africa Tourism Data
Namibia Executive Tours & Fishing Safaris

Jan Jonker Road 174
Ausspannplatz
Windhoek, Namibia
Tel.: +264-61-227679
Fax.: +264-61-227746
Email: infonetfs@iway.na
Website: http://www.namibiaexecutivetours.com/

Nature Friend Safaris
P O Box 5048
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 234793
Fax : +264 (0)61 259316

Nazimbo Camping Safaris
P O Box 84
Okahandja
Tel : +264 (0)62 502993
Fax : +264 (0)62 502993

Oipuka Travel Data
P O Box 747
Walvis Bay
Tel : +264 (0)64 20 0321
Fax : +264 (0)64 20 2921

Ondese Safaris (Pty) Ltd
P O Box 6196
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 220876
Fax : +264 (0)61 239700

Pack Safari CC
P O Box 29
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 275800
Fax : +264 (0)61 247755
Cell : +264 (0)81 124 6956

Pasjona Safaris
P O Box 90485
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 254606
Fax : +264 (0)61 223421

Pleasure Flights & Safaris
P O Box 537
Swakopmund
Tel : +264 (0)64 404500
Fax : +264 (0)64 404500

Ricma Safaris
P O Box 846
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 220268
Fax : +264 (0)61 220345
Cell : +264 (0)85 563 3266

RLT Tours and Safaris
P O Box 722
Okahandja
Tel/Fax+264 (0)62 500653
Cell +264 (0)81 128 4162

Sense of Africa
P O Box 2058
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 275300
Fax : +264 (0)61 263417

Safaris Unlimited
P O Box 6013
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 264521
Fax : +264 (0)61 264389

Sandtracks Adventures
P O Box 951
Walvis Bay
Tel : +264 (0)64 205859 / 60
Fax : +264 (0)64 206518

Southern Cross Safaris
P O Box 941
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 251533
Fax : +264 (0)61 251883

Springbok Atlas
P O Box 11165
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 215943
Fax : +264 (0)61 215932

SWA Safaris
P O Box 20373
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 221193
Fax : +264 (0)61 225387

Ultimate Safaris
PO Box 9970
Windhoek
Tel : +264 (0)61 241183 / 248137
Fax : +264 (0)61 238707
Cell: +264 (0)81 246 9101

Wanderzone Backpackers & Tours
Tel:+26461300558
Becky80@mweb.com.za

Wild Dog Safari
Tel: +264 61257642
info@wilddog-safaris.com

Zimba Adventure
P O BOX 5559 Ausspannplatz Windhoek
Tel: +264 61242962
Fax +26461242962
z-adventures@africaonline.com.na
www.zimba-adventure.com

Africa Safaris are known for a variety of most magnificent destinations to visit, from exclusive game reserves and parks and wildlife resort, including mountains, deserts and beaches. During the time you deciding on an African safari holiday, Namibia Safari tours should top your list of preferred destinations.

Namibia is located in southern Africa, bordering South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Namibia’s wildlife parks and game reserves are popular with big game plus hunting. Without a doubt most celebrated in locations for instance Waterberg Plateau Park, Kaudom Reserve, the Sossusvlei Desert Lodge safari plus Etosha National Park.

Safaris in Namibia

And as soon as you get into designing your Namibia safari vacation, carry out some study and decide on the places you want to visit, which activities you enjoy and Namibia hotels and accommodation.

Checking with a genuine Namibia safari tours and travel agent will result in a trip tailored to provide you with precisely what you will be expecting from Namibia safaris. Namibia has some of the most spectacular desert ecosystems in the world.

For travellers the highlights of the country include diverse tribal people, fabulous wildlife viewing, exotic flora and the stark beauty of the various desert landscapes. If Namibia hunting safaris are not what you are looking for, try hiking on the fish river canyon, game drives in the different game parks, horse rides on the Etosha pans, walking safaris in Naukluft National Park and camel rides in Namib Desert. The must see destinations for safari and tours Namibia is Etosha park and the Namib Desert.

Namibia National Parks and game reserves

Namibia’s 26 parks and reserves range from the open bush of the centre and the north where wildlife is relatively plentiful, to the unfriendly Caprivi strip with its huge sand dunes. Many of the animals found in Namibia are uniquely adapted to life in this harsh desert country. Notable sights include lions, cheetahs, giraffes, warthogs, rhinos, zebras and so many other animals

For the best game viewing a Namibian safari should include Etosha National Park, which covers an incredible 22,207 sq kms and is home to 114 mammal species like several herds of elephants, more than 300 different bird species, reptiles, amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish. A massive mineral pan, dominates Etosha, which means “Great White Place” attract several flocks of pelican and flamingos to the dry season water holes

The Namib Naukluft Park’s main attractions are the high rising dunes of Sossusvlei, Sandwich Harbour, the Naukluft Mountains and rare plant species such as Welwitschia Mirabilis, and the rare Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra.

Namibia safari tours

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is situated in almost the exact centre of Namibia. It is home to approximately two hundred thousand people and despite its fast growth the city centre is clean and safe. Windhoek city is characterized by German architecture, a lasting reminder of Namibia’s early colonial history. It is an excellent place to find Namibia Hotels and accommodation while on Safaris in Namibia

Swakopmund, is a popular seaside resort with a slightly nostalgic atmosphere and offering many adventure options from deep-sea fishing to quad biking and parachute jumps. Numerous colonial buildings characterize the townscape. Swakop offers quite a vibrant nightlife including a casino in the historic railway station.

The Skeleton Coast, is the scene of many shipwrecks and Cape Cross where the Portuguese navigator Diego Cao placed a cross in 1486. These days the Cape is more famed for its amazing cape seal-breeding colony with over 250,000 seals.

Fish River Canyon is one of the most visited sites on safari tours to Namibia and is up to 550 meters deep, the second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon, USA.  Hiking on the canyon gorge is quite splendid and is rewarded with stops at Ai-Ais hot springs for a relaxing and warm swim in the pools.

Kaokoland, in the far north of Namibia is strictly for the more adventurous. The scenery is dramatic, there are small pockets of desert-adapted game, and it is home to the Himba people. The permanent waters of the Kunene River provide a beautiful oasis and adventure activities.

Namibia People and cultures

Namibia is one of the world’s most sparsely populated countries and most of the people live in the north as the south is particularly lacking in water. Namibia’s population can be divided into at least 11 ethnic groups, the biggest group of which is the Owambo people however as a result of the unfortunate apartheid era the division of people into cultural or tribal groups is an extremely sensitive issue and most people prefer to think of themselves as Namibians.

Owambo, Herero, Himba, Kaokoland, Welwitschia, Kokerboom, Swakop …. All strange and unusual names and that is what Namibia is – strangely beautiful, unusually fascinating and well, well worth the journey. Cultural safaris in Namibia are quite unique and you won’t find warm people as those in Namibia

Namibia safaris travel guide

The best time on Namibia safaris and tour will be around May to October when the weather is quite cool although you can visit all through the year. Namibia is definitely a sunny country with heavy rains and thunderstorms around November to February.

Hunting guns are permitted on Namibia Hunting safaris and yet handguns aren’t allowed into the country. No visa is required for countries like UK, Australia and / or US holidaymakers and visitors equally for a host of many other countries, even though you may have to have a legitimate passport

Namibia Hotels and accommodation have many options starting from luxury Namibia safari lodges to budget camps and inns. Safari Namibia travel can blend each to have 100 % thrill in Namibia. You’ll find several overnight options from Windhoek, tented camps from Etosha Park and near every tourist point

ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

Etosha national park Namibia is one of the highlight of Namibia safaris located in the north west of Namibia, one of the largest Namibia parks and game reserves. Etosha Park is mainly mixed scrub, mopane savannah and dry woodland surrounding the massive mineral pan, from which Etosha gets its name – “Great White Place”.

Etosha pan is a silvery white shallow depression, dry except during the rainy season and even then the water disappears quickly due to the high evaporation rate. Mirages and dust devils play across the surface, which was once a part of the Kalahari Basin, the floor of which was formed around 1000 million years ago.  The salt pan 130km long, along the edge of the pan are springs that attract wildlife during the dry season, the best months are from May to September.

Etosha Namibia safaris

Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s greatest parks in both size and variety of wildlife species. It covers an incredible 22,207 sq kms (8598 sq miles) and is home to 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish.

Etosha is famous for its huge elephant population, which is most visible from May to October regularly sighted at Batia between Halali and Namutoni and Olphhantsbad near Okaukuejo. When the rains begin some elephant herds migrate north to Angola and west to Kaokoland, returning in about March. The Park is actually fenced though this does not always stop the elephants from going where they please.

Lions are commonly seen and zebra feel safer in the open expanses of the pans where lions have no shelter from which to spring an ambush. Black faced impala and Damara dikdik, one of Africa’s smallest antelopes are common near Klein Namutoni waterhole and Fischer pan during the dry season. Waterholes during the dry season draw in several other animals such as springbok, blue wildebeests, warthog, eland, black rhino giraffes, greater kudu, hyena, jackal, warthog and bat eared foxes. Special to see are rare sights of the aardwolf, cheetah, honey badger, roan antelope, silver fox and African wildcat. Ongava game reserve near Anderson gate to the south of the Etosha Park is a private sanctuary that offers night game drives, walking safaris and with god sightings of the white rhinos.

For keen birders Etosha National park is at its best during the summer rainy season, from mid-January to March, however a good variety of bird species can be seen year round at Andoni in the extreme north. Salt pans normally attract flamingoes, heron and pelicans to the park.

Other interesting places to visit for Etosha Namibia National Park include Ondundozonananandana Mountains as seen from Okaukuejo Namibia Etosha research station and Namutoni a former imperial fort for the Germans. Several waterholes in the park provide excellent birding and game sights during the dry season.

Roads run along the eastern, southern and western borders of the Etosha Pan. They link the three campsites and the various waterholes. The main entrance gate at Okaukuejo in the south is spectacular and it’s where you’ll find Etosha park offices.

Etosha National Park Accommodation

You will find established rest camps and private lodges offering a wide range of overnight accommodation near Namutoni, Hallali and Okaukuejo. Options include well furnished lodge rooms, chalets and camping sites.

Namutoni Etosha park safari and game lodges include double rooms in grass thatched chalets with showers, en-suite bathrooms and relaxing views of the game that visits the

Mustosha Safari Lodges

different waterholes. Options include Khorab lodge, Mokut Lodge, Mushara Lodge, Onguma lodge abd Villa Mushara lodge.

The tented camps are options offered if you are camping west of the park. Overnight options include Epacha tented camp, Etosha mountin camp, etosha safari camp, little ongave camp, Naua Naua Lodge, Namatubi’s guest farm, Ongava tented lodge and camp and finally Toshari inn

Eagle Tented Camp Lodge is a luxury game lodge with thatched roofs over decked 8 canvas tents. The camp offeres excellent restaurants, wooden balcony, bar, swimming pool, en-suite bathrooms, excellent room service and game drive to Epacha Game reserve.

Fish River Canyon Namibia is one of the biggest river canyons in the world, Fish River Canyon is second largest canyon in the world second to the Grand Canyon in Arizona USA, one of the most scenic features from southern Namibia on the border with South Africa. It the Fish river gorge is 161 kms long, 27 kms wide and the ravine reaches a maximum depth of 550 meters.

The Namibia Fish River Canyon was formed some million years a go as a result of fractures in the surrounding plateau and was further deepened by the constant erosion and glaciers. A road running for 25km along the eastern edge of the canyon leads to a series of viewing sites. In early times Fish River Canyon was a haven for the Namibian residents as the area is extremely arid with virtually no rainfall and the river provided food and water for humans and animals alike.

The fish river is actually the longest inland river in Namibia, floods for the late summers and then makes a chain of long shallow fools during the months of the year.

Sights and Fish River Canyon tours

November to April are extremely hot months for the summer with mid day temperatures up to 40º C , May to September are quite cool on the often good for hiking on the fish river canyon with chilly nights and light rains; the best time to go visiting.

Fish River hiking trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in South Africa stretching a distance of 54km. The hike starts from the main look-out point and ends at the hot springs resort of Ai-Ais normally done for period of 5days. The hiking trail is open from the beginning of May to September with moderate temperatures. The hiking trail has magnificent views of the canyon and a great sight for taking pictures; it actually ranks among the most visited Namibia Tourism destinations!

Not far west of Namibia Fish River Canyon is the Ai-Ais hot springs, one of Namibia’s famous hot springs resorts. Thermal water bubbles from the springs of Ai-Ais at a temperature of 60°C and is very rich in sulphates and fluorides. In the Nama’s language, ‘Ai-Ais’ means ‘burning water’. The thermal bath immediately next to the spring is a popular palm fringed resort, especially during the winter with spectacular swimming pools. The hot water springs are open from April to October with the rest of the year being too hot. Horse rides to the resort will give you sight over the dry rocky landscape normally explored for the early morning and late in the afternoon.

In the area you will also see a strange Namibian plant. The quiver tree or `Kokerboom’ is indigenous to the hot and dry southern part of Namibia. The plants are succulents and can reach a height of up to 9 meters. They have adapted to the extreme environmental conditions by storing water in their trunks. The tree blossoms for the first time after 20 to 30 years and can reach 300 years of age. As the trunk and branches can be easily hollowed out, they were used as quivers by the Bushmen (San people) who formerly roamed lived here.

Fish River National park

Fish river Canyon is a protected conservation area and with a small habitat for some mammals like rock-hopping Klipspringer,mountain zebra, kudu Leopards rock hyrax and Chacma baboons. The bush fringing the canyon attracts a rich birdlife with over 50 different colored species such as Herons, rock kestrals, lanner falcons. hammerkops, Egyptian Geese, Plovers and Wagtails. The area is worth visiting with a good camera to capture every moment of your trip.

Fish River Canyon Accommodation

Namibia fish river canyon has a few options for overnight and accommodation that are located to the south. Some of these options include Canon Lodge, probably the most popular with fully furnished rooms and excellent service. Canyon Roadhouse is another luxury Fish River Canyon accommodation options with delightful service. Find other lodges like Fish River Lodge, Vogelstrausskluft lodge, Canyon Village and Ai-Ais  Resort. Hobas Rest camp offers options fro camping on the main view point over the Fish River Canyon.

KAOKOLAND NAMIBIA

The scenery is dramatic, there are small pockets of desert-adapted game, and it is home to the Himba people this is what describes Kaokoland in Northwestern Namibia. Often this area is described as one of the unique unspoilt wilderness spot in South Africa and Africa as a whole.

Kaokoland Namibia lies in a region bordering the Skeleton coast park Namibia, Kunene River that flows on the north and Damaraland Namibia to the south. The permanent waters of the Kunene River, which also forms Namibia’s border with Angola, provide a beautiful oasis and adventure activities. Mountain ranges near the Kunene River are rugged and impressive with the highest point being 2039m. The Epupa Falls & the Ruacana falls are both on the Kunene River.

Kaokoland, in the far north of Namibia is strictly for the more adventurous. The scenery is dramatic, there are small pockets of desert-adapted game, and it is home to the Namibia Himba and Herero people. It is a fragile environment where visitors must travel with local guides who know and are committed to the area. A high degree of cultural sensitivity is essential.

Kaokoland Safari Namibia

Kaokoland’s weather is harsh and extremely hot around midday and the rugged landscape is especially attractive during the early morning and late afternoon when it is transformed into softly glowing pastel shades.

For a bit of water adventure and sporting try white water rafting and canoeing on the Kunene River. The stretch of river normally traversed is the 120km between Ruacana and Epupa Falls

Epupa falls cascades through beautifully colored rocks and orchards of fig trees, giant baobabs and makalani palm trees then plunges 60m below for 1.5km sometimes to a width of 500m during the heavy rainy period. The waterfall’s name-Epupa is translated by the Heroro People to mean ‘spray created by falling water’. Below, the falls run into Kunene River created beautiful rapids with spectacular white water rafting rapids and often used for canoe rides. Ondurusa rapids are splendid for rafting as well as the other 13 rapids.

The Ruacana Falls Namibia are also located on Kunene River just 135km upstream form Epupa falls. They are 120m high and 700m wide in full flood. The cascading water stream below becomes glistening on the onset of the spectacular sunsets and also offers water ports like swimming, however be ware of looming crocodiles on the river bank.

Epupa Falls

Kaokoland wildlife

The desert elephant found in Kaokoland Namibia is a rare species of wildlife exclusively adapted to the harsh desert weather similar to those living the border of Mali desert in Mali. There are also a few remaining Black rhinos living in Kaokoland and many of them are endangered by the increasing poaching activity. Other mammals present here include leopards, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, antelopes and large herds of Zebra that reside in the Zebra Mountains.

Bird watching is most rewarding around the permanent waters of the Kunene River and regular sights include the rare Rufoustailed palm thrush, as well as bee-eaters, the African fish eagle and Kingfishers ranging from giant to the tiny Malachite Kingfisher.

Near the hot water spring at Warmquelle is the ruined palm fringed fort called Sesfontein, desolated police post after a century now a tourist accommodation unit. Sesfontein Fort derives its name from the six fountains which have their source in the vicinity.

The Himba people

Kaokoland Namibia is one of the most sparsely populated places in Namibia with 16,000 inhabitants, a third of them Himba Namibia and the other Herero people both living a nomadic pastoralist life. The Himba Language is now English and Afrikaans

The Himba people are a statuesque noted for their unusual sculptural Himba beauty, intricate hairstyles, and traditional adornments and for the red ochre & fat treatment that protects their skin. Himba homes are simple cone shaped structures of saplings bound together with palm leaves and plastered with mud and dung. A family may move from one

Kaokoland Namibia-Beautiful Himba Girls

home to another several times a year to seek grazing for their goats and cattle.

Namibia Kaokoland Accommodation

One of the best places to stay in the Epupa area is the Epupa Camp luxury lodge. Enroute from Puro village is Onjuva Marble Mine campsite, Marienfluss Okarogombo campsite from the northern valley on Kunene River and Van Zyl’s  Pass campsite near Sesfontein fort. You’ll find some hot water, well stocked bar and swimming.

Driving and visiting Kaokoland is quite risky risky especially during the rains when the river and springs flood into the roads. You’ll need 4X4 vehicles to traverse the area. Be sure to book a local guide to escort you on trips to the area. Book one of these from Windhoek Namibia