Whether you’re planning a Namibian safari, beach break or road trip, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From sand dune climbing and shipwrecks to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Twyfelfontein, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country.
One of my favorite highlights in Namibia is a visit to a Himba Village. These semi-nomadic people are known for their red ochre-paste-covered skin and hair.
Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red dunes in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a favourite destination for tourists who come to Namibia for its desert wilderness and awe-inspiring views.
Sossusvlei's sand dunes are a highlight of the region and arguably one of Africa's most iconic images. They can be best viewed from the air on scenic flights, which are operated by Desert Air at Sossusvlei Lodge.
The sand dunes can also be explored by quad bike, and nature walks are available. In addition, Deadvlei is home to striking skeleton trees which have been blackened by the sun over an estimated 900 years.
Swakopmund
Swakopmund is a delightful seaside town with German colonial architecture that's popular with Namibians and tourists alike. It's also a great place to go for adventure activities like sand dune boarding and kitesurfing.
For something different, try kayaking around Walvis Bay Lagoon or a camel ride at the Camel Farm. You can also see a variety of marine life at the National Marine Aquarium, where you'll get a chance to feed penguins, flamingos, and ragged-tooth sharks.
The city also has a museum that is worth checking out. It's a fascinating insight into the past and features exhibitions on local culture and wildlife.
Fish River Canyon
If you're looking for a breathtaking landscape, then visit Namibia and its renowned Fish River Canyon. This awe-inspiring canyon is 100 miles (160 km) long and about 17 miles wide, making it one of Africa's largest and most impressive natural wonders.
It's no surprise that Fish River Canyon is the second most visited tourist attraction in Namibia, and a must-see on any trip to this country. It's a place that photos don't do justice to, and you need to see it in person to truly appreciate the beauty of this canyon.
The best way to enjoy this stunning sight is by hiking its trails on foot, and this is an exceptional experience that you'll find incredibly rewarding. However, it's a long hike (52 miles / 85 kilometers), so you will need to pre-book this tour in advance.
Luderitz
Luderitz is a coastal town in southern Namibia that is full of interesting things to do. It has a great variety of activities to offer from visiting a ghost town in the desert, exploring Art Nouveau architecture, kite surfing and observing wildlife.
This colonial German town is a bit off the beaten track but worth a visit. It has a distinctive German atmosphere with some examples of colonial and Art Nouveau buildings.
There is a lot to see in Luderitz, such as Felsenkirche (Rock Church), Goerke House, Diamond Hill, and more. The town is also home to a museum.
The area has a rich history with Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias discovering the bay in 1487 and Adolf Luderitz purchasing it in 1883. It is situated between the Namib Desert and Atlantic Ocean.
Walvis Bay
Walvis Bay, a major port on the Atlantic coast of Namibia, is home to one of Africa's most vibrant wetlands. See flamingoes at the Walvis Bay Lagoon and discover huge colonies of cape fur seals on this tour.
Another highlight of the area is the Hoba Meteorite. It's a 50-ton nickel and iron meteorite that landed on Earth 80,000 years ago.
Travelers can also try kitesurfing, dune boarding, or parasailing at Walvis Bay Lagoon. Visitors can also take a dolphin or seal-watching cruise.
The best way to reach Walvis Bay is by plane or by road from Windhoek, Namibia's capital city. A direct flight to Walvis Bay takes just under an hour.
