afrika namibia safari

THE 10 BEST Namibia Safaris

Safaris in namibia.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Twyfelfontein
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Scenic Sandwich Harbour Tour

2. 6-Day Dunes and Wildlife Accommodated Safari from Windhoek

3. Scenic Game Drive Activity

4. Safari in Etosha national park with professional tour guides born in Etosha.

5. 3 Day Sossusvlei Budget Camping Safari

6. 7 Day Taste of Namibia Lodging Safari

7. Full Day Guided Tour to Swakopmund and Namib Desert Highlights

8. ETOSHA PARK SAFARI with local guides in 9-seater 4x4s

9. 12 Day Classic Namibia Camping Safari

10. 5-Day Tour to Namibia Desert Sossusvlei and Coast

11. Private 3 Days Tour to Sossusvlei Namib Desert - Lodges

12. 9 Day Etosha, Skeleton Coast and Sossusvlei Camping and Lodge Safari

13. 6 Day Sand, Sea & Etosha Budget Camping Safari

14. 3 Day Sossusvlei Camping Schedule and Sandwich Habor

15. 10-Day Namibia Hightlights Guided Tour from Windhoek

16. Windhoek Wilderness Safari: A Game Drive Experience

17. 4-Day Etosha And Swakopmund Accommodated Adventure from Windhoek

18. Namibian Explorer Safari - 11 Days

19. 10 DAYS BEAUTY OF NAMIBIA | Private Guided Tour

20. Sandwich Harbour & Pelican Point Full Day Tour

21. 7 Day Northern Namibia and Skeleton Coast Camping Safari

22. Sandwich Harbour Guided, Self-Drive Tour

23. 10 Namibia Adventures

24. Cruise liner special: Swakopmund and Namib Desert Highlight Tour

25. Sandwich Harbour Tour - Pelgrim Tours

26. Half-day game drive

27. 3 Day Etosha Budget Camping Safari

28. 6 Day Private Guided Accommodated Namibian Loop

29. 6 DAYS ETOSHA,SWAKOPMUND & SOSSUSVLEI- NAMIBIA (Lodging)

30. 2 day swakopmund beach activity tour namibia (accommodated), what travelers are saying.

• Namibia safaris

Namibia safari guides – where & when to go, and what to see & do

Wedged between the Atlantic coast and the Kalahari Desert, Namibia is one of Africa’s hidden gems that is slowly emerging as a popular tourist destination, with safaris in Namibia high on the to-do list. A sense of freedom is generated by an epic, empty landscape with wide horizons, unpolluted skies and one of the world’s lowest population densities. These facts, combined with a plethora of large game animals and a frontier feel make Namibia the ultimate photography or self-drive safari destination , and not too bad either if you’re looking for an indulgent luxury safari experience.

The Namib Desert is the oldest and one of the largest deserts in the world , and a predominant feature of the country, extending all the way up the Atlantic coast on the western side of the country. The desert is scored by a number of rivers coming down from the Central Plateau – most of which are now permanently dry, or only flow during the rainy summer months.

The north of Namibia is dominated by the huge, permanently flowing rivers of the Kuene, Kavango and Zambezi, which make up the borders with Angola, Botswana and Zambia respectively. This part of the country is lush and green with dense woodlands most of the year, and home to several small national parks that teem with wildlife and birdlife. The rest of the country is made up of scrubby bushland of the higher Central Plateau, trailing off into the Kalahari desert in the east.

Wildlife in Namibia is varied, and taking a safari in Namibia will allow you the opportunity to see all of Southern Africa’s mammals. As well as the big five , the Namib Desert is home to the exceptional and endemic desert-adapted elephant and rhino. In the Namib Desert and elsewhere in Namibia a truly extraordinary fact is that the country has one of the densest congregations of animals in the world, combined with one of the sparsest human populations, making for fantastic wildlife viewing.

Unlike much of the rest of Africa, habitat destruction is not generally an issue in Namibia, and you can expect to see large mammals roaming the wilderness as you drive between Namibian national parks or towns. This means you need to be ready for a safari experience in Namibia at any time you’re not in a well populated area!

Useful resources

Book a Namibia safari

Namibia wildlife

Namibia Tourist Board

Namibia Wildlife Resorts

Weather in Namibia

Namibia guidebooks

Namibia safari highlights

Sossusvlei’s stunning dunes.

Discover the sand dunes of Sossusvlei with a dawn game drive and hike to top of a dune to watch the sun rise over the Namib desert. The dunes and surrounding area are truly specatular, reaching almost 400 metres high and providing inspiration to any budding photographer.

Self-drive safari in Etosha

Take a self-drive safari tour around accessible but wild Etosha National Park – one of the world’s premier national parks. 763 km of open roads around the park make for the ultimate self-drive safari. The park is based around a huge salt pan, and seems inhospitable to life, but a string of watering holes brings herds of antelope species and their prey from the surrounding scrub.

Fish River Canyon views

Visit the jaw-dropping 100km long, 26km wide Fish River Canyon in  the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park . It world’s second largest canyon after the Grand Canyon in the US, though with far less tourists visiting, as with all destinations in Namibia it’s both beautiful and serene.

The Walvis Bay ‘marine big five’

The cold waters off the Namibian coast harbor a wealth of marine life, no location more so than Walvis Bay. Styled as the ‘marine big five,, it’s possible to see whales, dolphn, sunfish, turtles and seals on a boat – or even canoe – safari .

Best time to go on safari in Namibia

As with the rest of Southern Africa, Namibia experiences summer between November and March and winter from May to August. From August temperatures keep rising until October when the first rains start to arrive in the northern areas, followed by large amounts of rain and occasional flash-flooding.

The best time to go on safari in Namibia depends on where you’re going, and what you’d like to see. October to March is the best time to visit Namibia’s coast around Walvis Bay and Sossusvlei as the climate provides a pleasant respite from the heated interior. If you’re travelling through the Skeleton Coast region the climate is similar year-round, with regular mist and winds.

For the inland areas of Namibia – including the Namib desert, Etosha and Kavango regions, the cooler months from April September provide temperatures far more bearable than summer months. Between May and September, thirsty animals gather at diminishing waterholes, making it the best time to go to Etosha for game viewing.

Flights To Namibia

Search, track and book flights to Namibia , from anywhere in the world.

Namibia Accommodation

Find safari accommodation in Namibia – from budget campsites to luxury lodges.

Namibia Car Hire

Considering a self-drive safari? Research and book car hire in Namibia .

Activities in Namibia

Search and book things to do in Namibia – tours, excursions and activities.

National parks in Namibia

All national parks in Namibia are administered by the extremely efficient Namibia Wildlife Resorts.

Namibia is an enormous country, and one with large tracts given over to national parks. This gives Namibia the impressive status of being the country with the highest ratio of animals to humans in the world: In short, Namibia’s national parks are fantastic places to visit for safaris and wildlife watching.

A word of warning – the distances between national parks can be huge, and very few roads are tarmacked. A 2WD will serve most of the year in most parts of the country, but rainy season will see even 4WDs struggling in some areas on a driving safari in Namibia.

Top Namibia national park picks

Etosha national park.

 A classic African national park – with excellent visitor facilities – housing the ‘big five’ and much more in plains surrounding a huge central salt pan. Herds of elephants, black-maned lions and the world’s largest population of rare black rhinos gather at the 86 waterholes, springs and fountains found around the edges of the pan.

Skeleton Coast National Park

With a reputation as one of the most desolate places on earth, the 20,000 km sq park is one of the most inhospitable and least visited places on earth. Shimmering white dunes, martian rock, beautiful sand beaches and treacherous, rough seas dotted with hulks of shipwrecks make up the park scenery.

Namib Naukluft National Park

The oldest desert on earth, and quite possibly the most beautiful. Namib Naukluft National Park is easily accessible from Sossusvlei, where giant dunes tower 400m into the air, and pockets of long ago dried-out lakes serve as sporadic homes to forests of thousand year old dead trees. In a word, epic!

Cape Cross Seal Reserve

All national parks in Namibia

Use the map to locate all national parks in Namibia. Click the icons for more info.

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Babwata National Park: Small national park in Caprivi Strip, unique in that it houses both a large animal and human population.

Cape Cross Seal Reserve: More seals breed at Cape Cross that anywhere else in the world, so if you like seals you’re in for a treat.

Etosha National Park:  A classic African national park – with excellent visitor facilities – housing the “big five” and much more in plains surrounding the huge central pan.

Fish River Canyon National Park:  A rugged desert wilderness home to the awe-inspiring Fish River Canyon – the world’s second largest canyon.

Khaudum National Park: Remote and wild national park hidden away in the Kavango Region is home to large elephant herds and packs of the endangered wild dogs. A visit here is not to be taken lightly.

Mamili National Park: Little visited .national park in Namibia’s northern Caprivi Strip, offering plenty of classic African wildlife a true wilderness experience.

Mudumu National Park: A riverine national park with undisturbed mopane forest, flood plains and swamps. Unsurprisingly, water-living creatures feature large – crocodiles, hippos, elephants, otters, turtles.

Namib Naukluft National Park: Namibia’s largest park, and one of the world’s oldest and most intensely studied deserts.

Skeleton Coast National Park: Take a drive through one of the world’s most inhospitable spots, with alien landscapes and ancient shipwrecks adding atmosphere.

Sperrgebiet National Park: Recently established desert national park on Namibia’s “forbidden coast”, home to ghost towns, Atlantic coast and hyenas.

Waterberg National Park: Rising 200m above the dry African savannah, the lush green Waterberg Plateau is unique in terms of vegetation and geological makeup.

Other Namibia safari resources

Namibia safari companies.

Whilst self drive safaris are a definite option in Namibia – given most national parks in the country allow this – there are still a number of quality safari tour companies in Namibia that you may want to speak to before arrival in the country. With a fairly well developed regional and international inbound tourist market, Namibia has lots of wildlife activities and safaris on offer. These are supported and promoted by a broad range of  safari tour targeting budgets of all sizes and trips of all lengths – from half days trips from the capital Windhoek to two or four week driving expeditions.  Check out our reviews of safari tour companies in Namibia .

Namibia safari lodges

Much like it’s neighbour Botswana, Namibia doesn’t see huge tourist numbers and has a focus on either low-impact, high-end safaris, or self-drive safaris. Safari accommodation on offer in Namibia reflects this, with a broad range of  high-end safari lodges around the national parks, and excellent camping facilities for self-drivers attached to most safari lodges. If you want accommodation in a national park, this must be booked in person or by phone with Namibia Wildlife Resorts, who take care of all of Namibia’s national parks. Search and book accommodation in Namibia .

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Safari basics

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Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
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• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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Namibia Safaris

Wildlife safaris in the living desert.

Welcome to the most unique wildlife destination on Earth. Along with our friends at AfriCat, Save the Rhino Trust, and Dr. Flip Stander, we have developed world-class safaris that support critical conservation efforts. Search for desert-adapted elephant, oryx, rhino, and lion, have a chance to assist with behind-the-scenes vet checks at AfriCat, and scale the world’s largest free-standing dunes of Sossusvlei! These adventures encapsulate the best of this top-tier safari destination.

All Trips to Namibia

Small Group Adventure

Namibia Expedition

From $9,195

Namibia: Giraffe Conservation Safari

From $9,595

Namibia: Green Season Safari

From $9,795

Ultimate Namibia and Botswana

Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia

From $11,595

Namibia: Desert Lion Conservation Safari

From $8,795

Private Journey

Namibia Private Safari

Call for Pricing

What Makes Our Namibia Safaris Special?

• The Most Extensive and Diverse Namibia Itineraries — We get you off the beaten track, with an unmatched range of activities including visiting with Himba tribes, climbing the epic dunes of Sossusvlei, and hiking the Tok Tokkie trail.
• Accommodations as Enchanting as the Landscape — Chosen to give you unrivaled comfort in Namibia’s most remarkable locations, our accommodations include private tented camps sited for access to rare wildlife, and charming lodges inside parks and game preserves.
• Custom-Built Vehicles & Guaranteed Window Seats — Our air-conditioned Land Cruisers guarantee each passenger a window seat and ample room for camera gear. We also include a private charter flight with dramatic views along the Skeleton Coast.
• Small Groups &  Expert Trip Leader — With a maximum of 12 travelers per departure, we ensure you never feel crowded or rushed, and our world-class Trip Leader accompanies you throughout your entire safari.
• Be Part of the Greatest Conservation Story on Earth — Namibia took the extraordinary step of writing conservation into its constitution, and now has over 40% of its land preserved. It is the only growing wildlife population in all of Africa!

Everything You Need to Know

We plan our adventures for Namibia’s best seasons, when wildlife viewing is at its peak. The “dry” season (April-September) is the most popular time of year, when daytime temperatures are in the mid-70sºF and wildlife viewing is at its peak as waterholes attract a vast array of animals. We also highly recommend the “green” season (January-March) when the crowds are gone and sporadic rains bring the desert to life to reveal carpets of flowers and calving season begins for plains game such as springbok and zebra.

Namibia’s varied landscapes and unique wildlife viewing offer seemingly endless opportunities for exploration—we’ve highlighted our favorite activities below!

Our purpose-built Land Cruisers are ideally suited for Namibian road conditions and ensure the best possible ride comforts on the many miles traveled; and Namibia’s awe-inspiring landscapes are the ideal destination for road adventures! With a maximum of 5 passengers per vehicle, everyone is ensured a window seat and plenty of room to stretch out their gear and legs.

All of our vehicles feature:

• Pop-top roofs for better photography and game vantage points, located at both driver’s front and back cabin
• Air conditioning
• Onboard fridge and freezers with plenty of water
• Library, including guide books, maps, stationary and check lists
• 220 volt electrical outlets to recharge batteries on the go
• VHF radios to allow group communication while on the road
• “Magic Boxes” for en-route catering from bush breakfasts, coffee and tea stops, to sundowners!

Not sure which Namibia adventure is best for you? See below for a side-by-side comparison of each of our itineraries to help make your decision easier. Still unsure? Our Africa Area Specialists are happy to answer any questions and explain the journeys in greater detail.

Experience Namibia

Extend Your Trip

Hoanib Skeleton Coast Extension

From $3,690

Shipwreck Lodge Extension

From $5,895

Sossusvlei Dunes Extension

From $4,395

REVIEWS FROM OUR CLIENTS

From our arrival to departure everything fell into place perfectly: the hotels, lodges, and food were all first rate. Being able to track the cheetahs on foot at AfriCat was absolutely amazing. What an experience!

This was my ninth Wilderness Travel trip and one of my very favorites. This trip had it all, great animal viewing, stunning landscapes including dunes and deserts, fascinating cultural exchanges with the Himba, and a real appreciation of Namibia past and present.

This is a wonderful trip. I was reluctant to leave just about every place we were. The place, the animals, the landscape, the accommodations, the people were all outstanding. The devotion of all to preserving their unique environment was impressive and enviable.

I love Wilderness Travel. You select the best guides, a variety of special places to stay, the food is always plentiful and cultural, and the adventure is top drawer! This trip to Namibia met all my expectations and more. Thank you for offering a trip that expands one’s knowledge of other cultures while making it enjoyable and fun.

Namibia is a fascinating and varied country. I feel privileged to have seen it. The quality of a trip often rests with the quality of the guides, and both were excellent!

This is an astounding trip to a really beautiful country. I really liked the itinerary. The Tok Tokkie desert hike is what caused me to choose the Wilderness Travel trip over some others and it was great. I was surprised by how many animals you see on that hike and how close they let you come to them.

Couldn’t have asked for a more interesting trip and two outstanding guides, accommodations, and meals. This was our fourth trip with Wilderness Travel and one of the best (although we say that about every trip we have been on!).

Community & Conservation

Our trips directly donate to Save the Rhino Trust, Desert Lion Project, Giraffe Conservation Foundation, and AfriCat Foundation. They are all actively working to establish protected habitats and create a sustainable future for endangered wildlife.

Talk to an Expert

Our Africa Specialists know every detail about our Namibia safaris. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Vast and stunningly beautiful Namibia

Namibia is a timeless land of stark deserts and endless blue skies inhabited by strange wildlife who have adapted to the harsh environment. It has the highest sand dunes in the world, huge shimmering plains, rugged mountains, as well as the mysterious and aptly named Skeleton Coast. The country’s famous Etosha National Park is a wildlife reserve on a vast salt pan whose perennial springs attract elephant , black rhino , lion , cheetah , zebra, wildebeest, springbok and gemsbok. Due to scarcity of water in the driest months, it is not uncommon to find a “Noah’s ark” scenario here – where species of all shapes and sizes are found gathered around the few remaining waterholes.

The Skeleton Coast National Park on the countries northwest coastline is one of the planets most unforgiving environments. Most of the park is accessed only by air and the desolate coastline is an incredible sight to behold. Cape fur seals visit the coastline every year to mate and give birth as well as hunt for fish during November and December. Over 200,000 seals have been seen at once in the colony at Cape Cross Seal Reserve.

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is another awe-inspiring destination filled with magical natural wonders. Highlights include the remarkable Sossusvlei dunes and famous skeleton trees of Dead Vlei – standing on the white salt pans against a backdrop of bright orange dunes. Hot air ballooning is also a popular way to discover the ancient landscape.

Although the human population is small, there is a rich tapestry of cultures to be found throughout Namibia; including Bushmen hunter-gatherers, Herero pastoralists in their Victorian dress and the nomadic Himba of the far north.

If you are short on time, the best way to cover the enormous distances between deserts, dunes and oases is by scheduled light aircraft. Aside from saving you hours on the road, flights provide breathtaking views of this extraordinary land from the air.

The Skeleton Coast

Spectacular sossusvlei, seal colony at cape cross, etosha national park, serra cafema and kunene river, damaraland and twyfelfontein, namibia tours and safaris.

Explore some of the best holidays & experiences that we can custom-design for you. All of our safaris and tours are tailor-made to suit your interests, budget and timeframe.

Timeless Deserts & Namib Wildlife

Discover the silent beauty of Sossusvlei, track Africa's last free-roaming rhino in Palmwag and go on safari in Etosha, Namibia's finest wildlife reserve.

Ultimate Namibia Safari

Take in some of Namibia's greatest highlights including Sossusvlei, Walvis Bay, Twyfelfontein and Etosha escorted by an experienced naturalist guide.

Wings Over Namibia

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Namib Desert from the air with this flying safari. Designed to offer you some of the best camps and wilderness areas in the country, this safari will take you on an

Accommodation in Namibia

Namibia is home to some of Africa’s most remote (and luxurious) safari lodges. These intimate properties often accommodate as few as 16 guests, providing complete comfort and service in some of the world’s most extreme environments. Many camps and lodges boast lavish decks, beautiful communal areas and bars, whilst some even have small, private plunge pools. Below are some of our handpicked accommodation options in Namibia, carefully selected for their superior safari locations, service and level of comfort.

Kwessi Dunes

Discover the beauty of Namibia’s remarkable NamibRand Nature Reserve at superb Kwessi Dunes

Shipwreck Lodge

Located on Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, this unique lodge has been designed around the countless shipwrecks that line this remarkable coastline

Hoanib Valley Camp

Hoanib Valley Camp offers a slice of luxury amid towering mountains, sand dunes and vast expanses of desert.

Ongava Lodge

Luxurious, family-friendly Ongava Lodge is situated on one of Namibia's largest and most important private game reserves, adjoining the famous Etosha National Park.

Desert Rhino Camp

Desert Rhino Camp nestles amongst rocky, rugged hills in the enormous Palmwag Concession, which harbours the largest free-ranging population of black rhino left in Africa.

Damaraland Camp

Owned and largely run by the local community, Damaraland Camp offers unique desert experiences in Namibia's well-managed Torra Conservancy.

Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp

Beautiful Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is set in one of the most remote areas of Namibia's Kaokoveld, straddling the Palmwag wilderness and iconic Skeleton Coast National Park.

Serra Cafema Camp

One of the most remote camps in southern Africa, Serra Cafema combines modern luxury with rustic elements inspired by its natural surroundings and the nomadic Himba people who live in this

Little Kulala

Little Kulala is a luxurious retreat which enjoys unparalleled proximity and private access to the famously large red dunes of Sossusvlei.  

Kulala Desert Lodge

Family friendly Kulala Desert Lodge provides guests with unrivalled access to the famous red dunes of Sossusvlei.

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

Subscribe below to keep up to date, find out more about our tailor made african safaris, talk to one of our africa experts, michael fitzgerald.

Senior Destination Specialist

Taleen Gaidzkar

When is the best time to visit namibia.

As Namibia is dominated by desert, temperatures can vary significantly, particularly at night when it can get very chilly. The most popular time to visit is between June and October during the dry season, when daytime temperatures are in the mid-20’s and the chance of rain is low.

July - October

December - march, april - june.

There is almost no rain during these months, which means the wildlife congregates at precious few remaining water sources. Etosha National Park is the country’s premier wildlife area and you can see a myriad of species all converging and drinking from waterholes at the same time. The Ongava Private Game Reserve, bordering the park also offers sensational wildlife viewing.

A shoulder month for Namibia, where the weather can be quite unpredictable. The temperature starts to increase, but so too does the chance of rain – which often comes as a late-afternoon thunderstorm. If there is rain, you will get to see the immediate transformation of the landscape, as new shoots of grass spring up seemingly overnight.

Namibia’s hot and wet season, when the landscape is transformed into a green wonderland. The rains mean that it is harder to spot wildlife during these months. Due to the availability of water, they do not need to congregate at water sources. This time of year offers excellent birdwatching opportunities too, as the rains bring a number of migratory species. January to March in particular are also great times to see young newborn animals.

April marks a bit of a seasonal turning point in Namibia. The countryside begins to dry out once more and temperatures begin to drop. April and May can be a nice time to travel, in particular for those who like to avoid fell ow travellers, as crowds are generally low during this time. Game viewing begins to pick up but it is still not at the peak levels of July-October.

Namibia FAQ’s

What is the best way to explore namibia.

It really comes down to preference between a fly-in/fly-out or self-drive safari – both are viable options in Namibia. If you are after a more remote, wildlife-based experience then flying is best, as it reduces the amount of time spent travelling, meaning more time out on safari or away from major areas. On the other hand, Namibia has an excellent network of roads, and if you wish to take your time and see more of the country then a self-drive safari is a terrific choice.

Where can I see Namibia’s famous dead trees?

One of Namibia’s most stunning scenic landscapes, Deadvlei (meaning dead marsh) is a white clay pan near the famous salt pan of Sossusvlei. The clay pan was once a marsh when the nearby Tsauchab River flooded. Camel thorn trees grew among the swampland and when the climate changed suddenly, drought struck the area and the land dried up, leaving behind the white clay pan with its dead trees sprouting up. The pans are surrounded by towering orange-red sand dunes – some of the largest in the world – creating an awe-inspiring back drop.

Why should I travel to Namibia?

This land of deserts has some of the most photogenic landscapes in all of Africa. Although Namibia is not as famous for wildlife as some other southern African countries, it has many unique, desert-adapted and fascinating species that are well worth looking for. The country also has some fine wilderness lodges providing comfortable accommodation and excellent service in some of Namibia’s most remote areas.

What is the culture like in Namibia?

Namibia has a number of different tribal groups with their own distinct cultures including the Herero, Baster, Himba and Bushmen peoples.

What can I combine Namibia with?

A big game wildlife safari in South Africa, Botswana or Zimbabwe complements a trip to Namibia. Victoria Falls on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe is another destination you could look at.

How to get to Namibia?

The main gateway to Namibia is through Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek. Flights to Windhoek depart daily from Johannesburg, the city where most visitors begin their Namibia itineraries.

US – Flying to Namibia from the United States requires at least one stop over. The easiest way is via Frankfurt, Germany or Doha, Qatar. Both Lufthansa and Qatar Airways fly directly into Windhoek.

UK/Europe – Again, the most direct access is via Frankfurt, Germany or Doha with Qatar Airways. Alternatively, South African Airways and British Airways fly to South Africa’s capital Johannesburg. From there you can fly to Windhoek with South African Airways.

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Namibia Safari Tours & Holidays

A safari in Namibia is as much about the wildlife as the country’s scenic beauty. In Etosha National Park it has one of the most storied wildlife reserves on the continent, but there’s so much more to experience here. The national parks of the Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip) are only now getting the attention they deserve, while the dune-scapes of the Skeleton Coast and its hinterland are simply extraordinary. And these are just starting points for exploring a country rich in experiences and safari possibilities.

14-Day Namibia Flying Safari

$18,645 to $27,405 pp (USD)

Namibia: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , N/a'an ku sê (Wildlife Sanctuary) , Kulala, Skeleton Coast NP, Kaokoland, Etosha NP, Windhoek (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

3-Day Etosha Guided Camping Safari Experience

$643 pp (USD)

Namibia: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Etosha NP, Windhoek (End)

People Tours And Safari   Tour operator has an office in Namibia

5.0 /5  –  25 Reviews

14-Day Namibia Breathtaking Adventure Tour

$5,720 to $5,940 pp (USD)

Namibia: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Kalahari Desert, Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) , Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) , Swakopmund (City) , Twyfelfontein (Rock Art) , Damaraland, Kunene Region, Epupa Falls (Kaokoland) , Western Etosha, Etosha NP, Eastern Etosha, Erindi GR, Hosea Kutako Airport (End)

5.0 /5  –  122 Reviews

11-Day Northern Namibia Wildlife Safari

$4,371 to $5,426 pp (USD)

Namibia: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Okonjima NR, Eastern Etosha, Etosha NP, Damaraland, Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) , N/a'an ku sê (Wildlife Sanctuary) , Windhoek Airport (End)

4-Day Sossusvlei & Coast, Sandwich Harbour Experience

$1,161 pp (USD)

Namibia: Shared tour (max 4 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Sesriem Canyon, Swakopmund (City) , Windhoek (End)

13-Day Dunes, Desert and Wildlife Self-Drive Safari

$4,558 to $4,858 pp (USD)

Namibia: Self-drive Mid-range Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) , Skeleton Coast NP, Damaraland, Etosha NP, Okonjima NR, Windhoek (End)

Secret Namibia   Tour operator has an office in Namibia

5.0 /5  –  16 Reviews

13-Day Highlights of Namibia Tour

$5,657 to $7,665 pp (USD)

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) , Swakopmund (City) , Damaraland, Etosha NP, Okonjima NR, Windhoek (End)

3-Day Tour to Etosha National Park the Experience

$1,028 pp (USD)

Namibia: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Chalet

7-Day Desert and Dunes Self-Drive Safari

$3,080 to $3,353 pp (USD)

Namibia: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Kalahari Region, Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) , Swakopmund (City) , Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) , Windhoek Airport (End)

19-Day Namibia Self Drive Adventure

$8,654 pp (USD)

Namibia: Self-drive Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Kalahari Region, Fish River Canyon (|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld TP) , Aus (Town) , Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) , Swakopmund (City) , Damaraland, Etosha NP, Eastern Etosha, Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) , Windhoek Airport (End)

3-Day Sossusvlei Guided Safari to Go

$837 pp (USD)

Namibia: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) , Windhoek (End)

13-Day Namibia Popular Highlights Self-Drive Safari

$4,437 to $5,010 pp (USD)

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Kalahari Region, Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) , Swakopmund (City) , Damaraland, Etosha NP, Eastern Etosha, Okonjima NR, Windhoek Airport (End)

10-Day Classic Namibia

$4,371 to $4,995 pp (USD)

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Kalahari Region, Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) , Swakopmund (City) , Damaraland, Etosha NP, Okonjima NR, Windhoek (End)

7-Day All Inclusive Namibia Desert Luxury Fly-in Safari

$9,668 to $15,700 pp (USD)

Namibia: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) , Skeleton Coast NP, Kaokoland, Windhoek Airport (End)

3-Day Eco-Friendly Etosha Self-Drive Safari

$492 pp (USD)

Namibia: Self-drive Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Etosha NP, Windhoek Airport (End)

5.0 /5  –  42 Reviews

7-Day Namibia Highlights Luxury Fly-in Safari

$7,934 to $8,772 pp (USD)

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) , Swakopmund (City) , Damaraland, Etosha NP, Windhoek Airport (End)

14-Day Eco-Luxury Honeymoon in Namibia

$5,179 pp (USD)

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Eastern Etosha, Western Etosha, Damaraland, Walvis Bay (City) , Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) , Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) , Windhoek (End)

5-Day Wildlife Etosha and Coast Guided Safari

$1,921 pp (USD)

Namibia: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Guest House & Chalet

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Etosha NP, Swakopmund (City) , Windhoek (End)

7-Day Sossusvlei and Swakopmund Self-Drive Safari

$2,775 to $3,585 pp (USD)

Namibia: Self-drive Mid-range Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) , Swakopmund (City) , Windhoek (End)

8-Day Eco-Adventure with Namibia's Best in a Week

$1,678 pp (USD)

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Etosha NP, Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) , Swakopmund (City) , Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) , Windhoek Airport (End)

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8 Questions About Namibia Safaris

Answered by

Anthony ham.

When is the best time to visit Namibia?

“If I had to choose one month for a Namibia tour, it would be June (followed by May). Although June temperatures can plummet overnight, you get the best of both worlds: high-season prices have yet to kick in, but the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration. As long as you don’t mind high-season prices and higher numbers of visitors with whom to share the wilderness, July through to October is also excellent with generally dry, clear weather and good visibility. By October, temperatures are starting to rise towards uncomfortable levels. The rains are less of an issue in Namibia than they are elsewhere in southern Africa, but rain does occur, especially from December through to March or April. At this time, birdlife is abundant. However, some off-road trails may become difficult to navigate and wildlife tends to disperse and be harder to find (because of the additional water sources scattered around).”

What are the major attractions in Namibia?

“Wildlife is a major draw for visitors on Namibia safaris. Etosha National Park , in particular, is one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations – and rightly so. Its combination of hallucinatory salt pans and large wildlife populations (including lions, elephants and plains animals in abundance) give it a distinction found in few other parks. Less commonly visited, but for many travelers equally rewarding, are Damaraland and the reserves of the Zambezi Region, such as Bwabwata and Nkasa Rupara (Mamili) National Parks. Landscapes are another highlight. From the Waterberg Plateau and Namib-Naukluft National Park to Kaokoland and Fish River Canyon (Africa’s answer to the Grand Canyon), stark beauty takes on many forms here. Namibia has long been a popular destination for self-drive safaris, but a Namibia safari is now just as likely to be characterized by luxury lodges, both exclusive and remote, that bring class and comfort to the whole experience.”

How much does a Namibia safari cost?

“It is possible to do a Namibia safari on the cheap, by renting a 4WD and heading out into the wild. While vehicle rental costs are generally high, and fuel is never cheap, your vehicle will also be your home, and camping and national park fees are not as expensive as in some other countries. As a minimum, expect to pay US$175 per person per day. If you’re looking for higher comfort levels and for someone else to take care of the arrangements, Namibia safari prices also reach for the high end rather well. Although there are degrees of comfort and cost, the price of a Namibia safari package can go as high as US$1,075 per person per day.”

What is the wildlife viewing like in Namibia?

“The best places to see wildlife on a Namibia safari are in the country’s north. Etosha National Park is especially good for lions and elephants, but you’ll also see giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and all manner of antelope species. After dark, black rhinos gather at waterholes, including those alongside some of the main camping areas, and it was here that the BBC first filmed this unusual behavior. African wild dogs are a possibility in the northeast, while sable, sitatunga and red lechwe antelope are highlights in Bwabwata National Park. In the northwest, Damaraland and Kaokoland are famed for desert-adapted lions and elephants, and brown hyenas can be seen scavenging around seal colonies on the coast. Farther south, wildlife is scarcer and the main reason to visit is the scenery.”

How safe is Namibia for tourists?

“Namibia is generally safe and politically stable. You’re unlikely to experience any problems in safari areas, such as parks, reserves and wilderness areas. Although most Namibian cities are considered safe and very few travelers run into trouble, you should be careful in larger cities, especially Windhoek, where petty crime is a growing problem. Road conditions are generally excellent along the main road network, although off-road conditions can prove difficult, from the deep sands of Namib-Naukluft and Khaudum National Parks to the axle-breaking rocks of Damaraland and Kaokoland. If self-driving in these areas, make sure you are prepared. The only risk of malaria is in the extreme north, along the border with Angola and in the Zambezi Region.”

How do I select a reliable Namibian tour operator?

“Your first stop when planning a Namibia holiday should be SafariBookings.com, where you can see the widest range of safari options in one place. The insights that you’ll get from expert reviews of the parks and from travelers’ experiences with operators offering Namibia tours could prove invaluable. Beyond that, talk at length to any company you are considering for your travel plans. No question should go unanswered. A visit to Namibia can be expensive and you want to be well informed about what you’re paying for. Safaris are a dream trip for so many, and avoiding a nasty surprise or preventable disappointment while on the adventure of a lifetime should be more than enough motivation to ask questions of the company you book with. Make sure that you spell out your expectations of your Namibia safari. Is it wildlife or the landscapes that you most want to see? What wildlife is on your bucket list? What’s your daily itinerary? How many hours can you expect to spend in the car each day? If a company is unwilling or reluctant to answer these questions, you should look elsewhere.”

What type of accommodation can I expect?

“If you’re self-driving, as so many visitors to Namibia do, you’ll likely sleep in a tent: either on the ground or on the roof of the vehicle. Camping areas in Namibia are often crowded, especially in popular wildlife areas such as Etosha National Park, but they’re also fenced, unlike in neighboring Botswana. Most have facilities that include showers, toilets and sometimes even restaurants, kiosks and swimming pools. Elsewhere, Namibia has a full complement of lodges and hotels, usually on the fringes of wilderness areas. These span the complete range of costs and comfort levels. Inside the parks, reserves and remote areas, luxury lodges and tented camps, usually designed to blend into their surroundings, dominate. They often have just 8 to 10 tents, ensuring an exclusive experience at all times. Tents are large, with comfortable beds, writing desks, private bathrooms and private decks or terraces. The night noises of Africa and cooling evening breezes make the safari tent one of my favorite places to sleep anywhere on earth.”

What can I expect from a safari in Namibia?

“If your Namibia tour is all about wildlife, expect a similar experience in Namibia as you would elsewhere in Africa. This means a pre-dawn wake-up call, safari drives in the very early morning and again in the late afternoon, and perhaps even a night drive. On these drives, you’ll be accompanied by a guide, a driver and sometimes a local tracker perched on a seat on the hood of the vehicle looking for animal spoor (marks or substances left behind as animals move through their environment). You can also expect a full breakfast after you return from the morning’s drive, plus lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, with plenty of relaxation time in between. If your visit is more about exploring wild landscapes, your focus may be different, but the daily rhythms (formed in part to avoid being out during the hottest times of the day) are likely to be similar.”

Namibia Safari Reviews

Lizzie is a reputed guidebook writer and author of the Footprint guides to South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

Unspoilt wilderness and unique and stunning landscapes offering a variety of contrasting safari expe

A hauntingly beautiful country that stretches along the west coast of southern Africa, with wide open spaces, big skies and some of the earth's most mystical and vivid sunsets, any visitor is blown away by the way Namibia ‘looks’ –...

Full Review

Christopher is a British travel writer and has contributed to various Fodor's guidebooks and a range of travel magazines.

Sand, salt pans and stars: Southern Africa’s wild west

With the exception of the verdant Zambezi Region, most of Namibia is comprised of harsh and inhospitable desert, but I’ve always found it staggeringly beautiful. Namibia was the first place I really travelled in Africa; I’ve been back...

Beautiful country, people and nature!

We saw amazing sceneries, from deserts to ocean, from savanna to mountains, insane wildlife including rhinos fighting, leopards and all the expected animals and more! The roads were excellent, the lodges had character and luxury and the...

Incredible trip of 10 days all around Namibia. The travel agency organised everything and personalised it. All the lodges were excellent. Can't decide what was better, the dunes in Sossusvlei, or the wildlife in the North.

Namibia was one of the most enchanting, fascinating, and beautiful countries I've ever been to!

My recent trip to Namibia was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I set foot in this captivating country, I was greeted by a landscape that seemed to stretch endlessly, offering a mesmerizing blend of natural wonders and...

Wild, remote, exclusively for adventurous nature lovers...

From all the many things we worried about before booking our Namibia trip that potentially could go wrong, nothing did! I think that must my starting point of my review. We didn't get sick, we had no road accident (not one flat tyre in 4000...

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

Namibia nestles in the south-west region of Africa and is a sparsely populated country with a unique and protected landscape of vast desert, sprawling savannahs, salt pans, and breathtaking coastlines. Namibia has a strong German architectural influence that is admirable and it is the ideal destination for sandboarding, swimming in the ocean, and exhilarating safaris.  

Boasting the world’s largest population of free-roaming cheetahs, the malaria-free Etosha National Park offers an incredible safari experience and a variety of accommodation options, including authentic tented bush camps and exclusive luxury lodges. Teeming with wildlife, the Etosha boasts some of the largest elephants in Africa, along with other incredible species such as the endangered black rhino, lion and, leopard. More than 340 bird species have been recorded in the Etosha National Park, making it a great bird watching destination.

After some time in the bush, its time to explore the 80 million-year-old Namib Desert , the most ancient desert on the planet and home to Dune 7 - the highest sand dune in the world at 383 meters. The Namib Desert offers some of the most incredible photo opportunities and mesmerizing sunsets.

Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are coastal towns that boast fishing boats, crafts, and swimming beaches, whilst the long and desolate Skeleton Coast offers a more eery experience, with the waves of the Atlantic Ocean crashing into the Namib Desert and rusting shipwrecks scattered along the shore.

Every corner of Namibia offers a contrasting landscape and unique selection of activities that afford an unforgettable vacation.

The mesmerizing sand dunes at Sossusvlei can be visited at any time of year but the dry May to October winter months are widely regarded as the best time to visit Namibia for game viewing - especially in Etosha National Park. The skies are clear and animals are increasingly concentrated around water holes as the dry season arrives. Temperatures drop considerably in the evenings during the months of June and July whereas September and October can be extremely hot.

The summer rains between November and April turn the country lush green and occasionally bring floods to the desert. December can see very rewarding game viewing in Etosha and summer is the best time to go to Namibia for bird watching. The Caprivi Strip (newly renamed the Zambezi Region) is Namibia’s wettest region and best avoided in the peak wet months of January and February.

Often referred to as “Africa for beginners”, Namibia is a wonderful place to start your travels in Africa. Derived from the world’s oldest desert, Namib, the country boasts a sand sea and perfect dead-tree valley in Sossusvlei, and spectacular sand dunes plunging down to the sea at Sandwich Harbour and the Skeleton Coast. Inland, running through the heart of the country, you will find a glorious sight of mountains – the Naukluft Mountains, the Brandberg, Spitzkoppe, Damaraland and the jaw-dropping Fish River Canyon. With rivers and wetlands in the Caprivi Strip and the endless gold-grass plains of the Kalahari, it is hard to find a country that offers such diversity.

Namibia’s northern region is one of Southern Africa's best places to watch wildlife. Etosha National Park provides an elite wildlife-viewing experience – big cats, elephants, black rhinos and plains game in abundance. Damaraland is a wonderful place to see desert-adapted elephants and lions, and also inhabits Africa's largest population of free-ranging rhinos – rhino tracking is a real highlight here. In the Caprivi Strip, the wildlife is returning, with Bwabwata and Nkasa Rupara becoming wonderfully rich parks to explore. There are also private reserves in Namibia - Okonjima and Erindi are two of the most established reserves and provide fantastic experiences.

Windhoek is the capital of Namibia, in the country’s central highlands within close proximity of the International airport. It is the largest city and starting point for a safari in Namibia. Highlights in Windhoek include the National Museum and the Christ Church built in the early 1900’s. Windhoek has a range of high-end hotels, boutique hotels and small lodges to check-in to before starting out on a Namibia adventure.

Etosha National Park

Covering more than 20 000 square kilometers, Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s biggest and elite conservation areas. The beauty of Etosha is found around several waterholes where a phenomenal number of animals gather to drink, including lions, elephants, springboks, and gemsboks. This occurs frequently during the dry season months of May through October.

Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by high red dunes, located in the southern part of the Namib Desert, in the Namib-Naukluft National Park of Namibia. The sand dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert are often referred to as the highest dunes in the world and the most popular photographic destination in Namibia. The desert offers a serene experience and is Namibia’s top attraction.

Swakopmund is a coastal city in Namibia, west of the capital, Windhoek.  Sandwiched between Atlantic rollers and the Namib Desert, Swakopmund is the country's biggest coastal town and premier holiday resort.  For those interested in adventure activities Swakopmund offers sandboarding, quad biking, dune carting, parachuting, hot air ballooning, shark fishing, deep sea fishing and beach angling to name but a few.

Skeleton Coast National Park

Skeleton Coast National Park is located in northwest Namibia and has the most inaccessible shores, dotted with shipwrecks. It’s a 40 km wide and 500 km long coastal wilderness. The name came from the bones that lined the beaches from whaling operations and seal hunts, but more than a few of the skeletons were human. The Bushmen called it “The Land God Made in Anger”. Despite its arid and deadly appearance, the Skeleton Coast has as many as 247 species of birds and a greater variety of animal species than many other parks in Southern Africa. Cape Cross Seal Reserve is a breeding ground for thousands of Cape Fur Seals.

One of Namibia’s most scenic areas, the beautiful region of Damaraland is set in a landscape of open plains, massive granite koppies, and deep gorges. Highlights include the Brandberg Mountains which is home to the famous “White Lady” bushmen painting, the rocky outcrop of Twyfelfontein, the millions of years old petrified forest and the various desert-adapted wildlife. A new addition to tourism in the area is the exciting Rhino and Elephant tracking safaris.

Located in the far northwest of Namibia, Kaokoveld which is also called Kaokoland is a breathtaking retreat and remote wilderness. Wildlife is sparse but most of it is unique to the region. Enjoy wide-open vistas and lonely desert roads with hardly anyone around you. This is a photographers dream destination.

Caprivi Strip

The Caprivi is a narrow strip that juts out from the northeastern part of Namibia and links the country to Zimbabwe, Zambia and northern Botswana. It exists because the Germans thought the Zambezi would lead to the Indian Ocean. It is a 450-kilometer panhandle filled with animals. You can see large herds of elephant, also buffalo, hippo, crocodile, lion, leopard, wild dog and a variety of antelope.

Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon is located in the south of Namibia and is the second most visited tourist attraction in Namibia. It is the largest canyon in Africa and second largest in the world. In some places, it is 27 kilometers wide and up to 550 meters deep.  The Canyon trek is one of the most popular in Southern Africa, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Okonjima Nature Reserve

Located halfway between Windhoek and Etosha National Park, the private 55 000 acre Okonjima Nature Reserve is the perfect stop for travelers seeking exceptional accommodation and the opportunity to see cheetah and leopard in their natural habitat. Nestled among the Omborko Mountains, Okonjima meaning “Place of the baboons”, is also home to the internationally renowned Africat Foundation

Waterberg Plateau National Park

Located in Central Namibia, the plateau and the national park are named after the prominent table mountain that rises from the plateau, the Waterberg. The land which is largely inaccessible is home to some 25 species of mammal including black & white rhino, Cape buffalo, and blue wildebeest. Sightings of the elusive leopard prowling along the cliffs, cheetah, caracal, black-backed and side-striped jackals have been seen on the plateau or in the savannah below. There are several privately owned lodges around the Waterberg Plateau.

Apr 27, 2024

Anja is awesome!

Anja is awesome!! She went above and beyond for me as I had several changes until I locked in my bucket list itinerary and then my friend cancelled. She wasn't mad and just went about cancelling her portion which saved me money in the long run. Anja is a true professional regardless and I have been dealing with her since Sept 2023. Cannot wait until my trip in Sept 2024.

Apr 26, 2024

Shann was beyond amazing

Shann was beyond amazing. Listened to our needs, communicated super-efficiently and gave really honest excellent advice. She was so patient, kind and professional. The time difference across the globe made no difference. I am so excited for the itinerary she has put together. I usually cobble my own itinerary together for our holidays and it’s so time consuming and hard work. This was a piece of cake! Thank you Shann.

Great planning and service

Great planning and service, and everything worked like clockwork. We booked an Inyari Lodge safari with air with Safari.com. it wasn't clear if there will be 2 or three of us, so with Candis' help we booked a family chalet for 2 and added the third later when it was confirmed he can come. Candis put us on flights that maximized our game drive time (unlike some of the other guests) so we got all 6 drives in 3 nights. The lodge was great. Especially the game drives. We saw more than we hoped for. Additionally, Safari.com's insurance was very competitive. Highly recommended.

Apr 24, 2024

Kim helped us for the details of trip…

Kim helped us for the details of trip planning.

Apr 23, 2024

Shann was amazing

Shann was amazing , great prompt service and went above and beyond to meet our travel requirements.

Apr 22, 2024

My experience with safari.com is always…

My experience with safari.com is always incredibly, pascal made happen my dream again. He is the best always answering questions and making everything perfect.thank you again pascal, can’t wait to tell all about my second trip to Africa in October.

Thank you Heleen Coetzee for your excellent service!

Thank you Heleen Coetzee for your excellent service. We have booked through her at Kruger park numerous times. She is very helpful and quick to assist.

Apr 21, 2024

Fantastic travel agent for African safari family trip!

Wow! Shann was and is fantastic! She figured out a way to make our entire trip work. We are going on a 2 week trip to South Africa and Botswana. She really helped tie it all together as a wonderful, cohesive trip. She is super nice and super smart and very knowledgeable. She is also flexible and thoughtful, etc., etc. When the chips were down (and we literally were considering pulling the plug on the whole trip), she found a way to make the entire itinerary work and got us excited about our wonderful adventure! Highly recommend!

Apr 20, 2024

safari booking

We were looking for a Safari. Anja from Safari.com supported us to book accommodation and flights, she was very polite, super fast and very supportive. We can recommend her and Safari.com, it was great to book there.

#1 Namibia Safaris

Our top selling tour.

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4 Day Namib Coast & Sossusvlei Adventure Tour

You travel from Windhoek to Swakopmund on the Skeleton Coast and Sossusvlei in the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

Swakopmund is the outdoor playground of Namibia while Sossusvlei is a magical destination that falls within the largest conservation area in Africa. Breathtaking scenery, abstract natural wonders and the warm-hearted people of Namibia make this a once-in-a-life time tour for wanderlust travellers.

From ZAR 13590

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4 day etosha & namib coast adventure tour, self drive namibia safaris, 13 day namibia highlights self-drive safari, 12 day namibia highlights self-drive safari, 11 day namibia highlights self-drive safari.

Namibia is a land of extremes; from the ghostly plains of the coastal belt to the strikingly beautiful arid sand dunes in central Namibia and the lush, subtropical floodplains in the north. Most tourists start a tour or safari of Namibia on the treacherous coast of Namibia which lies on the cold Atlantic coast. The coastal belt is renowned for being a desolate and inhospitable place; with the Namib Desert emptying into the icy ocean, leaving behind incredible species of plants and animals that have adapted to the hostile desert conditions. Moafrika offers the best of Namibia in offering guided Namibia safaris and tours for the budget or luxury traveler. View all packages and prices. 

The northern region of Namibia experiences higher rainfall and places like Etosha and the Caprivi Strip transform into a magical oasis when the rains fall. An abundance of migratory birds and wildlife descend on the area, with predators in hot pursuit.

Namibia shares its northern border with Zambia and Angola, with Botswana to the east and South Africa to the south and east. At a small bulge on the Zambezi River (a micro-border dividing Botswana and Zambia), one can cross over into Zimbabwe; a mere 200 meters separating the two countries.

The country is vast and is one of the most sparsely populated in the world. The majority of tourists visiting Namibia chose to travel with a tour operator that is experienced in the delights and dangers of such a mystical place. Moafrika Tours offers tourists a once-in-a-lifetime experience; to criss-cross, the mighty rivers of Namibia, find out more about the desert-dwelling animals that have made the dry land their own and discover the warmth and hospitality of its people.

MoAfrika Tours also offer an array of incredible tours to iconic places in South Africa, like the Johannesburg tour , Soweto tour , Kruger safari tours , and the world-renowned Cape Winelands tour . You can also combine some of these places with one of our South Africa Tours .

Most popular places to visit in namibia while on a namibia safari.

A tour of Namibia in a rugged 4×4 vehicle usually involves traveling long distances between destinations; crisscrossing endless stretches of arid thirstlands and the country’s mighty rivers to arrive at dusty towns steeped in rich history. For those on a tight schedule, Namibia has an excellent state-owned airline or you can choose to use the services of a private airline operator.

MoAfrika Tours has selected a few of its favourite destinations in Namibia with a few located off the beaten path. If you don’t have time to visit the many major safari attractions in Namibia, we know you’ll be back for more.

Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is the wilderness gateway to northern Namibia and Ovanboland. The name Etosha means the “great white area” and refers to the expansive arid pan in the middle of the Park. The Park was proclaimed a protected wildlife sanctuary in 1907 and elevated to the status of National Park in 1967. Over decades it has grown in reputation as one of the world’s best tourist destinations in Namibia.

The landscape of this magical wilderness is dominated by a salt pan that spans some 22 000 square kilometers, covering 25% of the total area. It is 130 kilometers long and up to 50 kilometers wide in places, making it the largest salt pan in Africa. It is so large that it can be seen from space.

Etosha National Park is world-renowned as a premier safari destination. Apart from the incredible sightings of wildlife, it is a birder’s paradise and heaven for photographers. The diverse biosphere makes it one of the most interesting places to visit in Namibia. It is home to hundreds of species of mammals, migratory birds, and reptiles including many endangered and endemic species not found anywhere else in Africa.

Etosha Pan was once an ancient inland lake formed over 100 million years ago. Due to tectonic forces and climate change, the rivers that once fed the lake were forced to change course and emptied instead into the Atlantic Ocean. The inland lake dried up leaving behind a shimmering surface of glittering salt. The only clue that it was once a lake lie deep underground as baked alkaline clay marks.

There is very little vegetation of much nutritional value around the salt pan but in the wet season, the area transforms into a magical oasis which attracts an abundance of game, birds and, of course, safari tourists. Etosha is the only known breeding ground for flamingos in Namibia and the sight of more than a million flamingos settled on the vast pan is breath-taking.

You might also like our Botswana Safaris . At MoAfrika we have a wide selection of tours and safaris all over South Africa as well as destinations in Africa. Don’t miss out on our affordable 2024/2025 holiday packages. 

Namibrand nature reserve.

NamibRand is one of southern Africa’s largest private nature reserves built on the vision of one man who dreamt of extending the desert frontiers with the cooperation of a large number of local sheep farmers. He dreamt of a reserve that allowed the precious wildlife of Namibia to roam freely, unhindered by fences and restricted to habitats.

JA Brückner fulfilled his life’s ambition, founding NamibRand Nature Reserve in 1984 and developing it into one of Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. To date, seventeen former livestock farms have been rehabilitated into a single continuous natural habitat. At least 15% of the total area has been exclusively set aside for the protection and conservation of wildlife, birds and its unique biosphere.

NamibRand is characterised by four distinct habitats; dunes and sandy plains, inselbergs (small hills) and mountains, true gravel plains and a combination of sand and gravel plains. It is home to endemic species like the Oryx gazelle (gemsbok) and springbok. An abundance of antelope make it a predator’s paradise with kudu, Hartman, the Burchell’s zebra, giraffe, klipspringer, steenbok, hartebeest and baboon creating a smorgasbord of delights for the big cats as well as spotted and brown hyena, black-backed jackal, aardwolf, bat-eared fox, African wild cat, caracal and genet.

Ornithologists have identified more than 150 bird species in the reserve, either endemic to the area or migratory species. The compilation of the list of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and plants is ongoing and endless.

Apart from its significant role in protecting the birds, wildlife, and biosphere of the eastern edge of the Namib Desert, the reserve has played a critical role in facilitating seasonal migratory routes. Large herds of elephants and wildebeest roam freely between the reserve, its neighbour Namib-Naukluft National Park and the imposing Nubib Mountains.

A visit to NamibRand offers those on a Namibian safari a small glimpse of the incredible delights of the natural wonders of Namibia. The reserve is registered as a non-profit private reserve and is financially self-sustaining through high quality, low impact tourism.

Dead Vlei in Sossusvlei

Dead Vlei is a popular safari destination located near the famous salt pan of Sossusvlei, inside the Namib-Naukluft Park. The name means “dead marsh” although this is misleading as the Sossusvlei and surrounds is recognised for its abundance of desert-dwelling wildlife and small creatures that have adapted in the most incredible ways to survive in the hostile arid environment.

The clay pan is a photographer’s dream destination and instantly recognised in the hundreds of images found on the internet. It is characterised by dark, dead camel thorn trees that stand out in stark contrast to the white pan floor.

The pan was formed when the Tsauchab River flooded and the abundance of water created a fertile environment to support the desert trees. Climate change and encroaching sand dunes blocked the river centuries ago, preventing the water from reaching the area. The trees did not decompose due to the dry climate but stand sentry in the rusty-red dunes, appearing as burnt-out relics of ancient times. Some of the trees are estimated to be over 900-years old.

There are a few remaining plant species that have survived since the area was once a lush floodplain. These include the salsola and clumps of nara which sustains themselves on precipitation from the morning dew and very rare rainfall.

Dead Vlei is surrounded by the highest sand dunes in the world. One, affectionately named Big Daddy, stands about 300-400 meters off the sandstone terrace floor. Dune 45 in Sossusvlei is one of the most photographed dunes in the world. A climb to the top is exhausting but worth every drop of sweat. The view from the top is breathtaking.

Skeleton Coast National Park

The entire coastline of Namibia is often mistakenly referred to as the Skeleton Coast. However, the formal area known as the Skeleton Coast National Park is a strip of coastal land extending from the Kunene River in the north for approximately 500 kilometers to the Ugab River. The reserve was established to protect one-third of Namibia’s coastline but the name has been applied to the entire length of its western border purely because it so aptly describes the hostile and somewhat spooky coastline.

The Kunene River is one of Namibia’s few perennial rivers, rising in the remote Angola highlands and forming one of the country’s two permanent estuaries. The bleak and inhospitable eco-zone is home only to a select few desert-dwelling animals, reptiles and amphibians who have adapted in the most incredible ways to survive extended periods of scorching heat, vicious wind or icy conditions.

The arid landscape is dominated by massive sand dunes that move constantly at a painstaking pace as well as magnificent desert canyons and mountain ranges. Dense fog and cold sea breezes roll in from the sea off the icy Benguela current. These icy winds clash with the extreme heat of the Namib Desert creating a biosphere so unique it is breath-taking.

The Skeleton Coast has long been associated with famous shipwrecks and is known as the largest “ship graveyard” in the world. The name itself came from bones scattered the length of the coastline; a sad tale of whaling and seal hunts and human explorations that went wrong. The Bushmen called it “The land God made in anger” and the Portuguese explorers called it “The gates of hell”. Blinding fog, treacherous seas and unrelenting surf took their toll on many ships and their unfortunate crew.

Despite its stark and deadly appearance, the Skeleton Coast National Park is world-renowned as one of the best places to visit to kick-off a Namibia safari tour. Namibia’s famous desert-dwelling elephants, black rhino, lion, cheetah, giraffe, gemsbok, zebra, springbok and spotted and brown hyena are sought-after sightings. A knowledgeable safari guide will show you other quirky desert creatures, snakes and plant life that are fascinating, like the endemic Gerrhosaurus skoogi which is an armor-plated lizard that prowls the sand dunes in search of Nara melon bushes.

The mouth of the Kunene River is the southern-most breeding territory of the green turtle and home to the only southern African population of Nile soft-shelled turtles. They may look cute but be warned; they are aggressive.

More than 250 species of birds have been recorded in the Skeleton Coast National Park, including the endemic Damara Tern. Fishing off the Skeleton Coast is spectacular as well as sightings of the endemic Benguela dolphin, killer whales, and humpback whales. On rare occasions, sightings of lions create a stir as they scour the beach for marine carrion.

The delights of the Skeleton Coast National Park don’t only revolve around spectacular scenery and fascinating wildlife. Incredible geological features dominate the area, including gemstone beaches, salt/brine pans and shifting sand dunes. Möwe Bay is well-known for its rainbow carpet of semi-precious stones, some of which are found embedded in the scattered remains of whale skeletons and amongst shipwrecks that met their brutal end some 500 years ago.

Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon is located in southern Namibia and is the largest canyon in Africa. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Namibia, particularly with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The enormous ravine stretches some 160 kilometers into the Namib Desert, up to 27 kilometers wide and 550 meters deep in some places. The Fish River cuts deep into the arid, stony canyon floor, only flowing in late summer at the end of the rainfall season. For the rest of the year, the river is a long chain of narrow pools flanked by dusty riverbeds with a smattering of hardy drought-resistant plants.

The main attraction of the canyon is a hot springs resort at the lower end of the gorge. Ai-Ais Hot Springs and its campsite falls within the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. This area is accessible to the public but the remaining 90 kilometers of the canyon are owned by private concessions.

The Fish River Canyon is characterised by two biospheres; the upper canyon is dominated by hard gneiss bedrocks which have been uncovered by soil erosion, and the lower canyon which formed when erosion finally wore down the gneisses outcrops. Over centuries, erosion created a deep ravine with a narrow meandering network of streambeds that wind and twist their way to the end of the canyon.

Hiking trails in the canyon are extremely popular. The immense scale and rugged terrain attracts extreme trail runners as well as hikers who are happy to tackle the canyon at a more leisurely pace. The 88-kilometer trail ends at Ai-Ais hot springs and it usually takes about 5 days to get there. There are no campsite or amenities on the trail and hikers need to carry everything they need in their backpacks. Hikers sleep under the stars which is no problem in the hiking season as the nights are usually mild and pleasant.

Due to seasonal flooding and scorching summer temperatures, hikers need to obtain permits to visit the canyon between May and September. Hikers must be older than 12 years and older hikers need to submit a certificate of fitness issued by a doctor. You are hiking in hostile terrain and these precautions must be respected for the well-being of the group.

MoAfrika Tours can arrange bus tours and transfers from Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. Contact us to help you plan your travel itinerary that will suit your budget to any destination in South Africa. As well as tours and safaris to Botswana, Namibia, Victoria Falls & Uganda. 

Bwabwata national park in the caprivi strip.

Bwabwata National Park is a community-driving initiative located in north-east Namibia. It was established in 2007 in the Caprivi Game Park and Mahango Game Reserve and spans some 6 300 square kilometers. Its boundary is the magnificent Okavango River to the west and the Kwando River to the east. Angola lies to the north and Botswana to the south.

The region falls within the Caprivi Strip along an important migration route from Botswana to Angola. Large herds of elephants, as well as wildebeest and other antelopes, have roamed these wilderness paths for centuries. What makes the reserve unusual is that it is the only national park in Namibia where the government has allowed local inhabitants to live in a protected area and manage its natural resources.

Bwabwata National Park is dominated by shrub savanna and woodlands, including north-eastern Kalahari, Caprivi mopane, riverine and islands, Okavango Valley and Caprivi floodplain woodlands. The vegetation is sparse but it sustains an abundance of wildlife and birds in the wet season, mainly due to it being a critical trans-boundary link for wildlife moving freely between Angola, Botswana, Namibia and Zambia.

The region is regarded as a birder’s paradise being home to rare and endangered species like the black-winged pratincole, slaty egret, wattled crane, African skimmer and African pygmy-goose to mention just a few. An abundance of antelope in the rainy season attracts the Katanga lion, African leopard, South African cheetah and spotted hyena.

Spitzkoppe is a fascinating tourist destination in Namibia, more popular with geologists, rock climbers and stargazers. Meaning “pointed dome” in German, Spitzkoppe is a group of bald granite peaks or inselbergs (small hills) that have been dated to more than 120 million years old. The rocky outcrop is located between Usakos and Swakopmund and is a hive of activity in the vast desolate Namib Desert.

The highest granite outcrop rises about 1 784 meters above sea level and some 700 meters off the desert floor. Other prominent granite features stretch out into a range known as the Pontok Mountains. It’s affectionately known as the Bushmen’s natural art gallery as many examples of rock paintings are found in the Spitzkoppe area.

Geologists refer to it as the “Matterhorn of Namibia” and estimate the rocky region to be nearly 700 million years old. Apart from the privilege of rock hopping over some of the oldest rocks accessible to man, a visit to Spitzkoppe takes you place of deep solitude with evenings spent contemplating the wonders of life under a blanket of glistening stars.

Twyfeltontein

Twyfelfontein is located in the breath-taking belt in the Huab valley which is located in the Hunene region (formerly known as Damaraland). Known as the Twyfelfontein Uibasen Conservancy, it is world-renowned for its collection of ancient rock engravings and paintings created by the first hunter-gatherer tribes some 6 000 years ago.

The Khoi-San inhabitants regarded it as a place of worship and performed shaman rituals which have been captured in a silent form in 17 different rock painting sites on about 212 stone slabs.

Its unusual name was given by a farmer who settled in the area in 1946. He named it Twyfelfteing (meaning uncertain or doubtful spring in Afrikaans) as he was not sure whether the natural spring would provide him with enough water.

The ancient rock art gallery and surrounds were proclaimed a national monument in 1952. To preserve its unique history and cultural heritage, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. The Khoi-San people no longer live in the area but the site plays an important role in understanding the fascinating belief system and way of life of their ancestors who first settled in the area over 1 000 years ago.

Cape Cross is a small headland jutting out into the South Atlantic Ocean on the Skeleton Coast. It is home to the largest colony of Cape Fur seals in the world and is a protected area owned by the government of Namibia.

The Cape Cross Seal Reserve is strictly managed to safeguard the seal colonies and the economic impact they have on the fishing industry. It is one of only two sites in Namibia (the other is Lüderitz) where the Cape Fur seals are culled. Their hides are sold as part of a community-based initiative to supplement the local fishermen’s livelihoods. Protection of the colony by the government is essential as they were under threat of extermination by fisherman that regard them as pests.

Cape Cross was named after the original padrão (stone cross) that was erected to honor the bravery of Portuguese explorers who discovered the headland while searching for a sea route to India and the Spice Islands. Two replicas now stand at Cape Cross in the place of the original stone cross that was destroyed over time by wind and sand.

The Brandberg (Damara: Dâures; Otjiherero: Omukuruvaro) is Namibia’s highest mountain.

Brandberg Mountain is located in former Damaraland, now Erongo, in the northwestern Namib Desert, near the coast, and covers an area of approximately 650 km².[3] With its highest point, the Königstein (German for ‘King’s Stone’), standing at 2,573 m (8,442 ft)[1] above sea level and located on the flat Namib gravel plains, on a clear day ‘The Brandberg’ can be seen from a great distance. There are various routes to the summit, the easiest (also steepest) being up to the Ga’aseb river valley, but other routes include the Hungurob and Tsisab river valleys. The nearest settlement is Uis, roughly 30 km from the mountain.

Origin of name

The name Brandberg is Afrikaans, Dutch and German for Fire Mountain, which comes from its glowing color which is sometimes seen in the setting sun. The Damara name for the mountain is Dâures, which means ‘burning mountain’, while the Herero name, Omukuruvaro means ‘mountain of the Gods’.

The Brandberg Massif or Brandberg Intrusion is a granitic intrusion, which forms a dome-shaped massif. It originated during Early Cretaceous rifting that led to the opening of the South Atlantic Ocean. Argon–argon dating yielded intrusive ages of 132 to 130 Ma.[4] The dominant plutonic rock is a homogeneous medium grained biotite-hornblende granite. In the western interior of the massif (Naib gorge), a 2 km in diameter body of pyroxene-bearing monzonite is exposed. The youngest intrusive rocks based on cross-cutting relations are arfvedsonite granite dikes and sills in the southwestern periphery of the Brandberg massif which crop out in the Amis valley. The arfvedsonite granites contain minerals rich in rare earth element minerals such as pyrochlore and bastnaesite. Remnants of Cretaceous volcanic rocks are preserved in a collar along the western and southern margins of the massif. Their angle of dip increases towards the contact where clasts of country-rock occur within the granite forming a magmatic breccia. The origins of the magmas that formed the Brandberg intrusion are related to emplacement of mantle-derived basaltic magma during continental break-up which led to partial melting of crustal rocks resulting in a hybrid granitic magma. Erosion subsequently removed the overburden rock. Apatite fission track dating indicates approximately 5 km denudation between 80 and 60 Ma.[5]

An associated feature is the Doros Complex.

Rock painting

Planning a last minute breakaway for 2 or for your family? MoAfrika offers a wide selection of romantic packages and family packages. Enquire now about our 2024/2025 rates and availability for our holiday packages. 

White lady, brandberg, namibia.

The Brandberg is a spiritual site of great significance to the San (Bushman) tribes. The main tourist attraction is The White Lady rock painting, located on a rock face with other art work, under a small rock overhang, in the Tsisab Ravine at the foot of the mountain. The ravine contains more than 1 000 rock shelters, as well as more than 45 000 rock paintings.[6]

To reach The White Lady it is necessary to hike for about 40 minutes over rough terrain, along with the ancient watercourses threading through the mountain.

The higher elevations of the mountain contain hundreds of further rock paintings, most of which have been painstakingly documented by Harald Pager, who made tens of thousands of hand copies. Pager’s work was posthumously published by the Heinrich Bart Institute, in the six-volume series “Rock Paintings of the Upper Brandberg” edited by Tilman Lenssen-Erz. (I. Amis Gorge, II. Hungorob Gorge, III. Southern Gorges (Ga’aseb & Orabes), IV. Umuab & Karoab Gorges, V. Naib (A)and the Northwest, VI. Naib (B), Circus & Dom Gorges. Volume VII. Numas Gorge is unlikely to be published due to discontinued funding.)

The Brandberg is also home to some interesting desert flora. Damaraland is well known for its grotesque aloes and euphorbias and the region around the mountain is no exception. The area has many plants and trees that have an alien appearance, due in part to the extreme climatic conditions.

The area is uninhabited and wild. It is very arid and finding water can be difficult or impossible. In summer temperatures over 40 °C are routine.

Nonetheless, the Brandberg area is home to a large diversity of wildlife. The numbers of animals are small because the environment cannot support large populations, however, most of the desert species that are found in Namibia are present and visitors to the area might glimpse a desert-dwelling elephant or a rare black rhino.

Swakopmund Museum

The Swakopmund Museum

The Swakopmund Museum was founded in 1951 by dentist Dr. Alfons Weber. It is the largest privately run museum in Namibia. On display are various types of indigenous plants, animals, minerals, an archaeological exhibition, the transport system of old and a variety of cultural-historical objects. One of a kind and educational is the exhibition “People of Namibia.” This focuses on the traditional heritage of the different ethnic groups of Namibia. HERE you will find an overview of the exhibits of the Museum.

The museum shop has a large variety of competitively priced books, postcards and souvenirs. You can even send your post from here!

Interesting local videos are shown at the Swakopmund Museum upon request between 11:00 and 13:00. We have new informative videos available. Apart from the German video about Swakopmund (Swakopmund 1892-1915 by Immo Böhlke) we show the interesting film “South West Africa in Pre-colonial days” and the natural history films: “The Namib Desert Coast”, “The Dorob National Park – a beauty once lost can never be regained” and “Ecotourism and Namibia’s wetlands: Supporting livelihoods”.

Epupa Falls

The Epupa Falls sits on the Kunene River on the border of Angola and Namibia in an area commonly known as Kaokoland. They are created by a series of cascades that drop a total of 60m over a distance of about 1.5km. At one point it reaches a total width of about 500m. This feature is also known as Monte Negro Falls in Angola. The name Epupa is a Herero word for the plumes of spray created by falling water.

Epupa Falls are not to difficult to reach from Opuwo, and unless you are traveling in the height of the wet season a 4×4 is not necessary – although a vehicle with higher clearance is recommended. The major attraction for visitors is to travel through a mainly largely unspoiled environment (after Opuwo) with baobabs, wild fig trees, and waving makalani palms enhancing the route. The area surrounding Epupa Falls has richly coloured rock walls and the best time to visit would be just after the rains when the spray is most evident. There are 4 lodges in the immediate vicinity of Epupa Falls:

Epupa Camp – immediately on the banks of the Kunene with a pleasant bar & restaurant area both overlooking the river and a small island. Of the three options on the banks of the Kunene River, this is the furthers from the falls (and is also separated from the other two properties which are next door to each other). Rustic en-suite tents.

Epupa Falls Lodge – The first development built in the Epupa area – this started as a campsite, but now offers rooms with river views and riverside campsites. The closest lodge to the waterfalls. Fall asleep and wake up to the sound of running water!

Kapika Waterfalls Lodge – The only property not on the banks of the river, this lodge is set on the hill above Epupa offering great views of the river and mountains. Accommodation is in pretty basic rooms, while the open communal areas are pleasant and are often cooled by the breeze (Epupa is a hot place!)

Omarunga Lodge – A good all round lodge, offering both campsites and reasonable rooms – right on the banks of the river (and next door to Epupa Falls lodge), close enough to hear the roar of the falls, but not to be completely overwhelmed by them.

Further from the falls (about 3 hours drive) but still on the Kunene River, Kunene River Lodge, offers excellent river views and both camping & a choice of accommodation. The lodge arranges white river rafting & canoe trips on the river, as well as Himba village visits and sunset cruises.

Other accommodation/lodge options which can be used to visit the falls can be found in the town Opuwo, but the drive from here to Epupa takes around 3 hours (due to numerous river dips and a winding road). So if you intend to stay at Epupa and visit the falls expect a good 6 hours worth of driving.

The perennially flowing waters of the Kunene River offer much to see and do. There are a number of activities to keep you occupied here. Some can be done under your own steam, others will have to be booked by various lodges and campsites.

Bird watching: Some 240 Namibian bird species have been recorded in the Kunene Region and birding can be done on foot or on an organized boating trip. Watch out for rare Rufus-tailed palm thrush, bee-eaters, the African fish eagle, Cinderella waxbill, Monteiro’s hornbill, African paradise-flycatcher, rosy-faced lovebird, malachite kingfisher, weavers and goliath heron.

Hiking: A walk to Epupa Falls, guided or unguided, offers superb photographic and birdwatching opportunities. Members of the Himba tribe wash their clothes and bathe here daily. En-route there are Euphorbia bushes, a plant with poisonous milky-white latex that has is used by the Himba tribe for hunting, mopane scrub, umbrella thorn and rose quartz crystals. There are a number of great lookout points downstream.

Swimming: It is a possibility to swim in some of the pools but be wary of crocodiles.

Cultural visit: A visit to a Himba settlement allows you not only to take photographs of these nomadic people but to learn of their fascinating lifestyle.

Sundowner trip: Spectacular sunsets every evening can be admired from a nearby sundowner lookout point.

The Petrified Forest

The Petrified Forest, located some 40 kilometers west of the Namibian town of Khorixas, on the C39 road, is a deposit of large tree trunks that have “turned to stone” through a process of diagenesis. There are at least two large tree trunks exposed to view and more may be out of sight. The site was declared a National Monument on 1 March 1950.

It is believed that the trees were swept downstream by a large flood and covered by alluvial sands. Deprived of air, the organic matter could not rot and decay, but instead, over millions of years, underwent silicification, whereby each cell is individually fossilised and the appearance, if not the colour, of wood, is retained. The surrounding sands became sandstone, which is now eroding away.

In addition, there are a large number of welwitschia plants at the site.

Public access is by guided tour only. There are toilet and refreshment facilities.

What to do in Namibia? At MoAfrika we will make sure your itinerary is full of sightseeing and adventure. Whether you are looking for a wheelchair friendly safari or a child friendly tour, make sure you contact us. 

The history of namibia.

Namibia (Listeni/nəˈmɪbiə/, /næˈ-/),[17][18] officially the Republic of Namibia (German: About this sound Republik Namibia (help·info); Afrikaans: Republiek van Namibië), is a country in southern Africa whose western border is the Atlantic Ocean. It shares land borders with Zambia and Angola to the north, Botswana to the east and South Africa to the south and east. Although it does not border Zimbabwe, a part of fewer than 200 meters of the Zambezi River (essentially a small bulge in Botswana to achieve a Botswana/Zambia micro-border) separates the two countries. Namibia gained independence from South Africa on 21 March 1990, following the Namibian War of Independence. Its capital and largest city is Windhoek, and it is a member state of the United Nations (UN), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU), and the Commonwealth of Nations.

The dry lands of Namibia were inhabited since early times by the San, Damara, and Nama peoples. Since about the 14th century, immigrating Bantu peoples arrived as part of the Bantu expansion. Since then the Bantu groups in total, known as the Ovambo people, have dominated the population of the country and since the late 19th century, have constituted a large majority.

In the late 19th century during European colonization, the German Empire established rule over most of the territory as a protectorate (Schutzgebiet) in 1884. It began to develop infrastructure and farming and maintained this German colony until 1915, when South African forces defeated its military. After the end of World War I, in 1920 the League of Nations mandated the country to the United Kingdom, under administration by South Africa. It imposed its laws, including racial classifications and rules. From 1948, with the National Party elected to power, South Africa applied apartheid also to what was known as South West Africa. In 1878 the Cape of Good Hope had annexed the port of Walvis Bay and the offshore Penguin Islands; these became an integral part of the new Union of South Africa at its creation in 1910.

In the later 20th century, uprisings and demands for political representation by native African political activists seeking independence resulted in the UN assuming direct responsibility for the territory in 1966, but South Africa maintained de facto rule. In 1973 the UN recognised the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) as the official representative of the Namibian people; the party is dominated by the Ovambo, who are a large majority in the territory. Following continued guerrilla warfare, South Africa installed an interim administration in Namibia in 1985. Namibia obtained full independence from South Africa in 1990. However, Walvis Bay and the Penguin Islands remained under South African control until 1994.

Namibia has a population of 2.1 million people and a stable multi-party parliamentary democracy. Agriculture, herding, tourism and the mining industry – including mining for gem diamonds, uranium, gold, silver, and base metals – form the basis of its economy. The large, arid Namib Desert has resulted in Namibia being overall one of the least densely populated countries in the world.

Foreign relations of Namibia

Namibia follows a largely independent foreign policy, with persisting affiliations with states that aided the independence struggle, including Cuba. With a small army and a fragile economy, the Namibian Government’s principal foreign policy concern is developing strengthened ties within the Southern African region. A dynamic member of the Southern African Development Community, Namibia is a vocal advocate for greater regional integration. Namibia became the 160th member of the UN on 23 April 1990. On its independence, it became the fiftieth member of the Commonwealth of Nations.[68]

The fourteen regions of Namibia.

Namibia is divided into 14 regions and subdivided into 121 constituencies. The administrative division of Namibia is tabled by Delimitation Commissions and accepted or declined by the National Assembly. Since state foundation, four Delimitation Commissions have delivered their work, the last one in 2013 under the chairmanship of Judge Alfred Siboleka.[73]

Regional councillors are directly elected through secret ballots (regional elections) by the inhabitants of their constituencies.[74]

Local authorities in Namibia can be in the form of municipalities (either Part 1 or Part 2 municipalities), town councils or villages.[75]

Namibia’s economy is tied closely to South Africa’s due to their shared history.[76][77] The largest economic sectors are mining (10.4% of the gross domestic product in 2009), agriculture (5.0%), manufacturing (13.5%), and tourism.[78]

Namibia has a highly developed banking sector with modern infrastructures, such as online banking and cellphone banking. The Bank of Namibia (BoN) is the central bank of Namibia responsible for performing all other functions ordinarily performed by a central bank. There are 5 BoN authorised commercial banks in Namibia: Bank Windhoek, First National Bank, Nedbank, Standard Bank and Small and Medium Enterprises Bank.[79]

According to the Namibia Labour Force Survey Report 2012, conducted by the Namibia Statistics Agency, the country’s unemployment rate is 27.4%.[80] “Strict unemployment” (people actively seeking a full-time job) stood at 20.2% in 2000, 21.9% in 2004 and spiraled to 29.4% in 2008. Under a broader definition (including people that have given up searching for employment) unemployment rose to 36.7% in 2004. This estimate considers people in the informal economy as employed. Labour and Social Welfare Minister Immanuel Ngatjizeko praised the 2008 study as “by far superior in scope and quality to any that has been available previously”,[81] but its methodology has also received criticism.[82]

In 2004 a labour act was passed to protect people from job discrimination stemming from pregnancy and HIV/AIDS status. In early 2010 the Government tender board announced that “henceforth 100 percent of all unskilled and semi-skilled labour must be sourced, without exception, from within Namibia”.[83]

In 2013, global business and financial news provider, Bloomberg, named Namibia the top emerging market economy in Africa and the 13th best in the world. Only four African countries made the Top 20 Emerging Markets list in the March 2013 issue of Bloomberg Markets magazine, and Namibia was rated ahead of Morocco (19th), South Africa (15th) and Zambia (14th). Worldwide, Namibia also fared better than Hungary, Brazil and Mexico. Bloomberg Markets magazine ranked the top 20 based on more than a dozen criteria. The data came from Bloomberg’s own financial-market statistics, IMF forecasts and the World Bank. The countries were also rated on areas of particular interest to foreign investors: the ease of doing business, the perceived level of corruption and economic freedom. In order to attract foreign investment, the government has made improvement in reducing red tape resulted from excessive government regulations making the country one of the least bureaucratic places to do business in the region. However, facilitation payments are occasionally demanded by customs due to cumbersome and costly customs procedures.[84] Namibia is also classified as an Upper Middle Income country by the World Bank, and ranks 87th out of 185 economies in terms of ease of doing business.[85]

The cost of living in Namibia is relatively high because most of the goods including cereals need to be imported. Business monopoly in some sectors causes higher profit bookings and further raising of prices.[citation needed] Its capital city, Windhoek is currently ranked as the 150th most expensive place in the world for expatriates to live.[86]

Taxation in Namibia includes personal income tax, which is applicable to total taxable income of an individual and all individuals are taxed at progressive marginal rates over a series of income brackets. The value-added tax (VAT) is applicable to most of the commodities and services.[87]

The B2 between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, Namibia

Despite the remote nature of much of the country, Namibia has seaports, airports, highways, and railways (narrow-gauge). The country seeks to become a regional transportation hub; it has an important seaport and several landlocked neighbours. The Central Plateau already serves as a transportation corridor from the more densely populated north to South Africa, the source of four-fifths of Namibia’s imports.[88]

Agriculture

About half of the population depends on agriculture (largely subsistence agriculture) for its livelihood, but Namibia must still import some of its food. Although per capita GDP is five times the per capita GDP of Africa’s poorest countries, the majority of Namibia’s people live in rural areas and exist on a subsistence way of life. Namibia has one of the highest rates of income inequality in the world, due in part to the fact that there is an urban economy and a more rural cash-less economy. The inequality figures thus take into account people who do not actually rely on the formal economy for their survival. Although arable land accounts for only 1% of Namibia, nearly half of the population is employed in agriculture.[88]

About 4,000, mostly white, commercial farmers own almost half of Namibia’s arable land.[89] The governments of Germany and Britain will finance Namibia’s land reform process, as Namibia plans to start expropriating land from white farmers to resettle landless black Namibians.[90]

An agreement has been reached on the privatisation of several more enterprises in coming years, with hopes that this will stimulate much needed foreign investment. However, reinvestment of environmentally derived capital has hobbled Namibian per capita income.[91] One of the fastest growing areas of economic development in Namibia is the growth of wildlife conservancies. These conservancies are particularly important to the rural, generally unemployed, population.

An aquifer called “Ohangwena II” has been discovered, capable of supplying the 800,000 people in the North for 400 years.[92] Experts estimate that Namibia has 7,720 km3 of underground water.[93][94]

Mining and electricity

Providing 25% of Namibia’s revenue, mining is the single most important contributor to the economy.[95] Namibia is the fourth largest exporter of non-fuel minerals in Africa and the world’s fourth largest producer of uranium. There has been significant investment in uranium mining and Namibia is set to become the largest exporter of uranium by 2015.[96] Rich alluvial diamond deposits make Namibia a primary source for gem-quality diamonds.[97] While Namibia is known predominantly for its gem diamond and uranium deposits, a number of other minerals are extracted industrially such as lead, tungsten, gold, tin, fluorspar, manganese, marble, copper and zinc. There are offshore gas deposits in the Atlantic Ocean that are planned to be extracted in the future.[78] According to “The Diamond Investigation”, a book about the global diamond market, from 1978, De Beers, the largest diamond company, bought most of the Namibian diamonds, and would continue to do so, because “whatever government eventually comes to power they will need this revenue to survive”.[98]

The domestic supply voltage is 220V AC. Electricity is generated mainly by thermal and hydroelectric power plants. Non-conventional methods of electricity generation also play some role. Encouraged by the rich uranium deposits the Namibian government plans to erect its first nuclear power station by 2018, also uranium enrichment is envisaged to happen locally.[99]

Tourism in Namibia ( the best of safaris and tours in Africa ) 

Tourism is a major contributor (14.5%) to Namibia’s GDP, creating tens of thousands of jobs (18.2% of all employment) directly or indirectly and servicing over a million tourists per year.[100] The country is a prime destination in Africa and is known for ecotourism which features Namibia’s extensive wildlife.[101]

There are many lodges and reserves to accommodate eco-tourists. Sport hunting is also a large, and growing component of the Namibian economy, accounting for 14% of total tourism in the year 2000, or $19.6 million US dollars, with Namibia boasting numerous species sought after by international sport hunters.[102] In addition, extreme sports such as sandboarding, skydiving and 4x4ing have become popular, and many cities have companies that provide tours.[citation needed] The most visited places include the capital city of Windhoek, Caprivi Strip, Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei, the Skeleton Coast Park, Sesriem, Etosha Pan and the coastal towns of Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Lüderitz.[103]

The capital city of Windhoek plays a very important role in Namibia’s tourism due to its central location and close proximity to Hosea Kutako International Airport. According to The Namibia Tourism Exit Survey, which was produced by the Millennium Challenge Corporation for the Namibian Directorate of Tourism, 56% of all tourists visiting Namibia during the time period, 2012 – 2013, visited Windhoek.[104] Many of Namibia’s tourism-related parastatals and governing bodies such as Namibia Wildlife Resorts, Air Namibia and the Namibia Tourism Board as well as Namibia’s tourism-related trade associations such as the Hospitality Association of Namibia are also all headquartered in Windhoek.[105] There are also a number of notable hotels in Windhoek such as Windhoek Country Club Resort and some international hotel chains also operate in Windhoek, such as Avani Hotels and Resorts and Hilton Hotels and Resorts.

Namibia’s primary tourism related governing body, the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB), was established by an Act of Parliament: the Namibia Tourism Board Act, 2000 (Act 21 of 2000). Its primary objectives are to regulate the tourism industry and to market Namibia as a tourist destination.[106] There are also a number of trade associations that represent the tourism sector in Namibia, such as the Federation of Namibia Tourism Associations (the umbrella body for all tourism associations in Namibia), the Hospitality Association of Namibia, the Association of Namibian Travel Agents, Car Rental Association of Namibia and the Tour and Safari Association of Namibia.[107]

Water supply and sanitation

Namibia is the only country in Sub-Saharan Africa to provide water through municipal departments.[108] The only bulk water supplier in Namibia is NamWater, which sells it to the respective municipalities which in turn deliver it through their reticulation networks.[108] In rural areas, the Directorate of Rural Water Supply in the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry is in charge of drinking water supply.[108]

The UN evaluated in 2011 that Namibia has improved its water access network significantly since independence in 1990. A large part of the population can not, however, make use of these resources due to the prohibitively high consumption cost and the long distance between residences and water points in rural areas.[108] As a result, many Namibians prefer the traditional wells over the available water points far away.[109]

Compared to the efforts made to improve access to safe water, Namibia is lagging behind in the provision of adequate sanitation.[110] This includes 298 schools that have no toilet facilities.[111] Over 50% of child deaths are related to lack of water, sanitation, or hygiene; 23% are due to diarrhea alone. The UN has identified a “sanitation crisis” in the country.[109]

Apart from residences for upper and middle-class households, sanitation is insufficient in most residential areas. Private flush toilets are too expensive for virtually all residents in townships due to their water consumption and installation cost. As a result, access to improved sanitation has not increased much since independence: In Namibia’s rural areas 13% of the population had more than basic sanitation, up from 8% in 1990. Many of Namibia’s inhabitants have to resort to “flying toilets”, plastic bags to defecate which after use are flung into the bush.[112] The use of open areas close to residential land to urinate and defecate is very common[113] and has been identified as a major health hazard.[111]

Demographics

Namibia has the second-lowest population density of any sovereign country, after Mongolia.[114] The majority of the Namibian population is of Bantu-speaking origin – mostly of the Ovambo ethnicity, which forms about half of the population – residing mainly in the north of the country, although many are now resident in towns throughout Namibia. Other ethnic groups are the Herero and Himba people, who speak a similar language, and the Damara, who speak the same “click” language as the Nama.

In addition to the Bantu majority, there are large groups of Khoisan (such as Nama and San), who are descendants of the original inhabitants of Southern Africa. The country also contains some descendants of refugees from Angola. There are also two smaller groups of people with mixed racial origins, called “Coloureds” and “Basters”, who together make up 8.0% (with the Coloureds outnumbering the Basters two to one). There is a large Chinese minority in Namibia.[115]

Whites (mainly of Afrikaner, German, British and Portuguese origin) make up between 4.0 and 7.0% of the population. Although their percentage of the population is decreasing due to emigration and lower birth rates they still form the second-largest population of European ancestry, both in terms of percentage and actual numbers, in Sub-Saharan Africa (after South Africa).[116] The majority of Namibian whites and nearly all those who are mixed race speak Afrikaans and share similar origins, culture, and religion as the white and coloured populations of South Africa. A large minority of whites (around 30,000) trace their family origins back to the German settlers who colonized Namibia prior to the British confiscation of German lands after World War One, and they maintain German cultural and educational institutions. Nearly all Portuguese settlers came to the country from the former Portuguese colony of Angola.[117] The 1960 census reported 526,004 persons in what was then South-West Africa, including 73,464 whites (14%).[118]

Namibia conducts a census every ten years. After independence the first Population and Housing Census was carried out in 1991; further rounds followed in 2001 and 2011.[119] The data collection method is to count every person resident in Namibia on the census reference night, wherever they happen to be. This is called the de facto method.[120] For enumeration purposes, the country is demarcated into 4,042 enumeration areas. These areas do not overlap with constituency boundaries to get reliable data for election purposes as well.[121]

The 2011 Population and Housing Census counted 2,113,077 inhabitants of Namibia. Between 2001 and 2011 the annual population growth was 1.4%, down from 2.6% in the previous ten–year period.[122]

The Christian community makes up 80%–90% of the population of Namibia, with at least 75% being Protestant, and at least 50% Lutheran. It is the largest religious group – a legacy of the German and Finnish missionary work during the country’s colonial times. 10%–20% of the population hold indigenous beliefs.[116]

Missionary activities during the second half of the 19th century resulted in many Namibians converting to Christianity. Today most Christians are Lutheran, but there also are Roman Catholic, Methodist, Anglican, African Methodist Episcopal, Dutch Reformed and Mormons (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).

Islam in Namibia is subscribed to by about 9,000 Muslims,[123] many of whom are Nama.[124] Namibia is home to a small Jewish community of about 100 members.[125]

Although its official language is English, Namibia is a multilingual country as is illustrated by these examples in English, German, Afrikaans, and Oshiwambo.

Up to 1990, English, German and Afrikaans were official languages. Long before Namibia’s independence from South Africa, SWAPO was of the opinion that the country should become officially monolingual, choosing this approach in contrast to that of its neighbour South Africa (which granted all 11 of its major languages official status), which was seen by them as “a deliberate policy of ethnolinguistic fragmentation.”[126] Consequently, SWAPO instituted English as the sole official language of Namibia though only about 3% of the population speaks it as a home language. Its implementation is focused on the civil service, education and the broadcasting system.[127] Some other languages have received semi-official recognition by being allowed as medium of instruction in primary schools. It is expected of private schools to follow the same policy as state schools, and “English language” is a compulsory subject.[127] As in other postcolonial African societies, the push for monolingual instruction and policy has resulted in a high rate of school drop-outs and of individuals whose academic competence in any language is low.[128]

According to the 2011 census, the most common languages are Oshiwambo (the most spoken language for 49% of households),[129] Nama/Damara (11.3%), Afrikaans (10.4%), Kavango (9%), Otjiherero (9%).[122][130] The most widely understood and spoken language is English. Both Afrikaans and English are used primarily as a second language reserved for public communication.

Most of the white population speaks either German or Afrikaans. Even today, 102 years after the end of the German colonial era, the German language plays a role as a commercial language. Afrikaans is spoken by 60% of the white community, German is spoken by 32%, English is spoken by 7% and Portuguese by 1%.[116] Geographical proximity to Portuguese-speaking Angola explains the relatively high number of Portuguese speakers; in 2011 these were estimated to be 100,000, or 4–5% of the total population.[131]

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Fascinating facts about namibia.

1) Namibia is home to the world’s largest population of free-roaming cheetahs (~2500-3000).  I was lucky enough to see a few of them at the Cheetah Conservation Fund. I especially loved hearing them. Their chirp-like sound as they impatiently waited for lunch was not what I expected from a cat!

2)The country gets its name from the Namib Desert – one of the world’s oldest deserts.  No one knows exactly how old it is but scientists have identified that sand has existed in the desert for over a million years!

3)Namibia is the second least densely populated country in the world.  It has a population of ~2 million in a country that is twice the size of California.  Only Mongolia is less populous.

4)Would you visit a place in Namibia called the Skeleton Coast? Named so in previous times for all the whale and seal skeletons lining the coast, there would have been a few humans ones there as well.  It’s famous for shipwrecks due to blinding fog.  Over 1000 ships met their end here.  The Bushmen refer to it as The Land God Made in Anger, while the Portuguese refer to it as The Gates of Hell. But it’s not all bad news though, it’s also home to one of the world’s largest seal populations with almost 100,000 seals!

5) Namibia was a German colony, then captured by South Africa in World War I.  It became independent in 1990 – just over 20 years ago.

6) Despite its low population, Namibia is still home to 13 different ethnic groups –  including the Himba, a nomadic and traditional people whose ways have changed little over the years due to their seclusion from outside influences. They only came into contact with Western influences a mere 15 years ago.  I was really looking forward to my visit to a Himba village and learning ancient beauty tips from the women but had mixed feelings after my visit.

7) Namibia is the first country in the world to incorporate environmental protection into its Constitution. The result of this has many community-based tourism initiatives that provide social and monetary benefits to the communities and authentic experience for visitors. Love it!

8) Namibia is one of only two countries in the world that has desert elephants! They’re not a separate species, but he IUCN has identified them as a high priority.  They’ve adapted to their semi-desert environment by developing a smaller body mass, longer legs and larger feet – enabling them to travel for miles across sand dunes to reach water. Heck they’re even known to slide down the dunes to reach water.  I searched for a video, but couldn’t find one.  Wouldn’t that be something to see! You can find out more about desert elephants here. Note:  I didn’t see a desert elephant but I saw large herds of African elephants in Etosha National Park!

9) Did you know that there are two different styles of sandboarding? Namibia has both.  The easiest, but perhaps scariest is lying down and heading down the dune headfirst.  You can reach a speed of up to 80km/hr! The second is standing up, which is slower, but more difficult to master. I definitely preferred the head first version.  You’ll understand why after reading this post – hint – I was really bad!

Namibia Dune 45Save

Dune 45. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

10) Sossusvlei Sand Dunes are some of the highest in the world and one of Namibia’s most impressive sights. Big Daddy is the largest dune in Sossusvlei measuring ~325m and also visit Dune 45, known as the most photographed dune in the world.  I learned that climbing up sand dunes is breathtaking, but exhausting, perhaps even more so than hiking up mountains!

11) Namibia is home to the world’s largest population of free-roaming black rhinos.  I Loved tracking this critically endangered animal and (gulp) did so on foot! I only realized afterward when we were back in the jeep and ran into a pride of lions, that our guides were unarmed!

2 – Namibia is the second least densely populated country on earth. After Mongolia which is also a vast country, there are just over two million people living in a country which is half the size of Alaska.

3 – Namibia’s national anthem “Namibia, Land of the Brave’ was composed by Axali Doeseb. The words of the first verse echo the country’s long struggle for independence: “Namibia, land of the brave, Freedom’s fight we have won, Glory to their bravery, whose blood waters our freedom”. The chorus is “Namibia our Country, Namibia our Motherland, we love thee”.

4 – Namibia, known as the “Gem of Africa”, is a unique place for eco-tourists. Much of Namibia is as it was centuries ago. Due to this, it has a host of natural wonders and amazing places:-

5 –  Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s finest parks, both in size and diversity of wildlife – home to Africa’s tallest elephants, the endangered black rhino, and 91 other species of mammal. Etosha is especially popular with photographers in the dry season who flock to the waterholes (along with the wildlife).

6 – The Namib-Naukluft Park is the largest conservation area in Namibia and one of the largest in the world.

7 – Two spectacular deserts – the Kalahari and Namib – each with distinctive wildlife and scenery.

volunteer in Africa

Spitzkoppe – or Namibia’s Matterhorn – rock climbers paradise!

8 – The Namib desert, at 80 million years, is the world’s oldest desert. Namib means “open space”.

9 – The Namib and Damaraland offer remarkably clear skies for astronomers and keen stargazers.

10 – Stunning Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world, after the Grand Canyon – it is 161km long, up to 27km wide and 550m deep, formed about 500 million years ago. You can hike the canyon but only during the cooler months between May and September. The hike takes 5 days and there are no hotels along the way.

11 – Sossusvlei is said to be the highest sand dunes in the world.

12 – Superb birding and good fishing is available from the banks of the Kavango and Kunene Rivers on the northern border.

13 – Shipwrecks dot the wild Skeleton Coast coastline and elephants wander through the sand dunes that plunge directly into the freezing Atlantic ocean. A desolate place that’s extremely rewarding for the adventurous traveler.

14 – Dragon’s Breath is the largest underground lake in the world.

15 – The San Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert, are considered Namibia’s first people. They traditionally followed the migratory patterns of the animals and still have no homeland. They speak a clicking language.

16 – The NamibRand Nature Reserve, one of the largest privately-owned game reserves in Africa, with many wildlife volunteer opportunities

17 – Namibia has the largest free-roaming cheetah population the world – there are an estimated 2,500 – 3,000 cheetahs in Namibia. Cheetahs are under pressure from farming and ranching encroachment on their habitat. Leopards and lions are also indigenous big cats in Namibia.

teaching volunteer, medical volunteer in Africa, Namibia

San Bushman School children

18 – Namibia is also where Brangelina chose to give birth to their daughter Shiloh on 27 May 2006 at a small hospital near Swakopmund. They also donated $2m to the Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary, who are dedicated to the people, and the conservation of the wildlife and land of Namibia.

19 – Fabulous opportunities for Volunteering – with wildlife (cheetah & leopards, elephants and lions, abandoned wildlife) or teaching and/or medical helping the Bushman tribe.

20 – Popular self-drive destination with excellent infrastructure.

21 – Largely malaria-free.

22 – More than 300 days of sunshine per year.

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Frequently asked questions, is namibia a safe country for a wildlife safari.

Namibia is not totally free of petty crimes, but for the most part, it is a safe country for a safari.

Is Namibia a good place to go on a wildlife safari?

Namibia is home to many richly rewarding safari destinations. But you should know that there are long distances between key destinations which might complicate the logistics if you are trying to work out where to go and how to get there, unless you leave it to a Namibia safari specialist to work out the details for you.

What animals can I expect to see on safari in Namibia?

Namibia is home to game and wild animals, and you can expect to see: Oryx, Kudus, Springboks, Elephants, Zebras, Rhinos, Wild horses, Lions, Cape fur seals, Oribis, Pukus, Giraffes, Hippopotamus, Wildebeest, Hyenas, Vultures, Ostriches, Black backed jackals, Dikdiks (tiny antelope species), wild dogs and baboons.

What is Namibia best known for?

Namibia is best known for the highest dunes in the world that can be seen at Sossusvlei and for the Etosha National Park, one of the world’s greatest conservation areas.

Will I see a tiger on my Namibia safari?

No, unfortunately there have never been any tigers roaming the wild in Africa.

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Our Namibia 

Take in the endless skies and deep red deserts of namibia.

With a population density of only 8 people per square mile (87 per square mile in the USA by comparison), Namibia is regarded as one of the world’s most sparsely populated countries. Flanked by the cold Atlantic Ocean, Namibia is renowned for its dramatic desert scenery, big open skies and impressive wildlife diversity.

A luxury safari to Namibia concentrates on the country’s desert environments with Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert on the top of the “must see” list. Further north the scenery changes allowing regions such as Etosha National Park to support a variety of wildlife species despite the arid conditions. Heading toward the coast, Damaraland and the Skeleton Coast are best known for sightings of the desert adapted elephants while  Twyfelfontein offers a glimpse into human history with a collection of rock art sites which have gained UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Top Namibia Experiences

Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert

With its endless skies and spectacular desert vistas, Sossusvlei is regarded as one of Namibias top travel destinations. Visit the regions salt pans and climb the deep rich sand dunes for a truly unique desert adventure. 

The coastal village of Swakopmund

Set on the west coast of Namibia and surrounded by the Namibia Desert, Swakopmund is a fascinating coastal village steeped in German history dating back to 1892, offering an array of desert and coastal activities. 

Safari to Etosha National Park

Regarded as Namibia’s prime wildlife sanctuary, Etosha National Park with an impressive variety of wildlife, all adapt to living in this unique arid environment. With limited access to water, the waterholes are a hive of activity. 

Damaraland's Desert Elephants

One of Namibia’s unique wildlife encounters is with the desert adapted elephants of the Skeleton Coast and Damaraland. Elephants are natural dependant on large amounts of water – a scarce recourse in this desert environment. 

More About Namibia Safaris

Dominated by desert landscapes and wildlife adapted to living in harsh arid conditions, Namibia offers a fascinating safari in almost complete contrast to neighboring countries like Botswana and South Africa. It is this contrast that makes combining Namibia with a Botswana safari such a rewarding safari combination with deep rivers and channels of the Okavango Delta in stark contrast to the arid desert of Namibia.

The Namib Desert in the Southwest of Namibia is the country’s most impressive desert landscape covering a total of 81,000 square kilometers. The Sossusvlei region of the Namib Desert is a must visit with its impressive deep red sand dunes and white-clayed salt pans. For the adventurous traveler, climb up Big Daddy – one of the reserves highest dunes for a glimpse into the expanse of the desert landscape. Interestingly, the Namib Desert stretches west onto the coastline, creating a fascinating contrast between the red sands and deep blue ocean. A scenic flight up the coast to Swakopmund will leave a lasting impression on you.  

Swakopmund is a quaint coastal town steeped in German history and a critical stop over on your Namibian fly-in safari. The town is a popular destination for local travelers looking to escape the dry inland conditions which gives the town a true Namibian vibe, especially on weekends. The Atlantic Ocean is cold, so only the brave will swim but a boat cruise to enjoy the prolific marine life is well worth it. Swakopmund is Namibia’s Adventure Capital with an array of activities for the busy traveler from quad bike rides in the dunes to coastal kayaking in the chilly waters.

Heading north, the Skeleton Coast appears even harsher as shipwrecks can be seen scattered along the coastline. The region is protected by the Skeleton Coast National Park and while the region may seem baron at first glance, a guided tour from your luxury desert lodge will reveal a world you didn’t know existed with a variety coastal birds and unique fauna and flora.  

Heading inland, Damaraland is best known for the desert adapted elephants and rock paintings of Twyfelfontein . The region has an array of truly unique luxury safari lodges which will leave you in awe as you grapple with how wildlife thrives in such an arid region and why the desert landscape leaves such a lasting impression on you.

For the wildlife enthusiast, Etosha National Park is a “must see”. The park is home to one of the world’s largest salt pans and as with most national parks in Namibia, it supports an impressive variety of desert adapted wildlife including lion, elephant, rhino and large number of plains game. For the budding photographer, the harsh landscape coupled with fascinating wildlife encounters will have you gripped to your camera looking for the next dramatic scene. For those who prefer to sit back and take in the scenery, spending time at one of the pans or waterholes will provide hours of enjoyment as you simply sit back and wait for the wildlife to come to you. Etosha National Park has a variety of all-inclusive luxury safari lodges and surrounding private game reserves. Our knowledge and expertise of the area will ensure you get the most out of your time in the park.    

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From exceptional big 5 safaris to beautiful beaches, memorable cultural encounters and sophisticated cities, South Africa offers an immense diversity of true African travel experiences.

Recognised as one of the worlds last remaining true wildernesses. Explore the wonders of the Okavango Delta and enjoy exceptional wildlife encounters including Africa’s highest elephant population.

Zambia is renowned for its guided walking safaris. For an authentic, wild African safari, the Kafue National Park, South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi await.

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Best Safari Lodges in Namibia

Author: Diane Du Plessis - 7 June 2021

Last Update: 30 January 2024

Part of the Namibia Trips & Visit Namibia & African Safari Collection

Namibia  is known as one of Africa's most intriguing corners. It offers tourists exclusive game-viewing experiences with its adventurous  Namibia safari options  and its exotic desert-adapted animals.

It offers tourists a secluded, remote Namibia safari vacation that we believe is ideal for a post-covid vacation.

We are so eager for tourists to visit this desolate paradise that we have decided to compile a list of the top six Namibia safari lodges:

Namib Dune Star

4.5 Rating on Tripadvisor.

“Absolutely outstanding and must-do experience for all those who come to this part of Namibia!” Hoopmans from Marrakech Morroco

“This is one of those places that should be on your travel adventure list. Sleeping in the oldest desert on earth under the stars far removed from civilization is just amazing.” Wikus from Namibia.”

What makes Namib Dune Star Camp unique?

Namib Dune Star Camp is a Lodge in Namibia where dreams come true, perched on the crest of a sand dune where the stars are so clear that they seem just beyond control.

Unlike any other Namibian Safari Lodge, you can sleep under the stars while still getting access to modern conveniences – in the world's oldest desert – which is one of the many reasons it is regarded as one of the best Safari lodges in Namibia.

Dining options at Namib Dune Star Camp

Dinners and breakfast are prepared in the kitchen by a team known for its delectable offerings at this Lodge Safari in Namibia.

Dinners are served in three courses, and breakfast is a full breakfast with hot and cold options, both served in the dining room of this spectacular Namibian Safari Lodge.

According to many reviewers, Namib Dune Star Camp's mouth-watering 4-course meals are a significant factor that contributes to Namib Dune Star Camp's status as one of Namibia's best safari lodges.

Activities at Namib Dune Star Camp

sunrise and sunset guided walks

Kambaku Lodge

5 Rating on Tripadvisor.

“Fantastic Lodge with Family Flair for Horse-Riding ” Gunther V from Frankfurt.”

“Beautiful lodge with an excellent team!” Isabel from Dusseldorf.” 

What makes Kambaku Safari Lodge unique?

Kambaku is a small but award-winning family-run Lodge Safari in Namibia nestled at the foot of the Waterberg Plateau.

Kambaku warmly welcomes all visitors to their Namibia Safari Lodge and provides special rates for children, teens, and solo travellers.

Couples and honeymooners, on the other hand, find comfort in luxurious rooms with private porches/terraces, open fireplaces, fruit baskets and wine selections, and the option to book a private guide for a wildlife Namibia Safari adventures in Namibia's heart.

Kambaku operates a private Hospitality College for young Namibians who want to work in the hospitality industry and have the best vacations possible.

Licensed teachers and experts from leading hotels around the world teach students excellent service skills and international hotel know-how, with studies in the College on-site and realistic job experiences in their lodge.

Their specialized hotel and kitchen workers are also regularly educated. The Staff can spend training time in hotels/restaurants in Germany and Switzerland, ensuring that they maintain their status as one of Namibia's best safari lodges at all times.

Dining options at Kambaku Lodge

Another aspect that makes Kambaku one of the best Safari Lodges in Namibia is that they are pretty famous for their food. 

Quality ingredients such as fresh vegetables from their kitchen garden and meat from the reserve, delicious Mediterranean recipes and homemade bread and more, chosen wines from Southern Africa, and stylishly decorated places ensure a touch of haute cuisine at lunch and dinner under the stars.

So all is in place for a great indulgence on a Namibia safari in the heart of Namibia.

Activities at Kambaku Lodge   

• Guided Wildlife activities available twice a day (nature walks, game drives, observations at waterholes/hides with guides, etc.)
• Wildlife training college experience
• Hiking Trails
• Mountain Biking
• Table Tennis
• Beach Volleyball
• Clay Pigeon shooting
• Horseback riding 

Grootberg Lodge

“Exceptional views & staff” 2s on Tours from Frankfurt. “Breathtaking view and landscape” Penny from the United Kingdom.

What makes Grootberg Lodge unique?

Grootberg Lodge is Namibia's first middle-market establishment operated entirely by the Conservancy of Namibia. The Grootberg Lodge's hosts are also members of the rural community.

On your Namibia safari, marvel at the stunning view of the Klip River Valley below while sitting on the deck or cooling off in their infinity pool and observing the scenic views of one of Namibia's best safari lodges.

Dining options at Grootberg Lodge

Enjoy a magical sundowner from the Namibia Lodge Safari restaurant's veranda while tasting the hearty meals prepared by their enthusiastic chefs, or get cosy with family and friends around their fireplace to add a cool winter night atmosphere.

  Activities at Grootberg Lodge 

• Damara Cultural tour
• Desert Elephant tracking
• Moringa Guided Walk
• Rhino Tracking

Erindi Private Game Reserve 

Rated 4.5 Stars on Tripadvisor.

“Erindi was the highlight of our Namibia trip, great staff, great food nice rooms and all the animals.” Danny from Stockholm. “Erindi never fails to amaze. The premises are beautifully cared for with luscious green grass. The management staff is committed and extremely helpful.” Jaime from Windhoek, Namibia.

What makes Erindi Private Game Reserve Unique?

The Erindi Private Game Reserve, regarded as one of Namibia's best safari lodges, is a vast natural wonderland where conservation is at the heart of its eco-tourism philosophy.

They are the custodians of the most endemic species and numerous conservation initiatives.

They have taken on an immense challenge of undertaking conservation initiatives in the name of eco-friendly tourism while empowering our local communities, with 70,719 hectares of pristine wilderness under their protection.

Today, Erindi is an idyllic Namibia Safari retreat with a rich cultural heritage, skilled guides, and unrivalled hospitality, offering visitors the kind of safari that will last a lifetime.

Dining options at Erindi Private Game Reserve

Dining at the Old Traders Lodge is a culinary adventure that mixes regional African cuisine with many cooking types left behind by the great continent's early explorers.

This Namibia Safari Lodge stocks a wide selection of South African wines, spirits, and liqueurs.

Every afternoon, this Safari Lodge in Namibia serves high tea with delectable sweet and tasty food.

Activities at Erindi Private Game Reserve   

• Game Drives with wildlife viewings (guided game drive, private game drive, leopard project drive, etc.)
• Walking safaris (Cheetah walk, guided bush walk, San Village trip, etc.)
• Conservation experiences ( ultimate ecological experience, telemetry tracking, etc.)
• Photography activities ( Private photographic safari, Private Birding drive, Fly your drone safari)

Hobatere Lodge 

“Hobatere was my favorite lodge on my trip to Namibia.” Piaa M from Shanghai. “Thank you, COVID, for giving us the opportunity to visit Hobatere, where we were surrounded around the clock by huge herd of elephants, zebra, oryx, giraffe and impala, who were free to roam the lodge due to the lack of visitors.” Finny123  from Windhoek.

What makes Hobatere Lodge unique?

Guests on a Namibia safari will immerse themselves in the untamed wilderness of Damaraland by staying at Hobatare Lodge. Their slogan is “become one with honour.”

Hobatere Lodge is a wildlife sanctuary worth visiting on a Namibia safari, thanks to their near friendship with the Namibian Lion Trust Foundation, frequent sightings of wildlife viewings such as; elephants, and a plethora of birdlife.

The Namibia Safari Lodge is situated in an area that is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. The proximity of the waterhole ensures an up-close encounter wildlife viewing with wild creatures in the forest, making this one of Namibia's best safari lodges.

Dining Options at Hobatere Lodge

A boma is the Southern African word for an enclosure, usually for wild animals. This Namibia Safari Lodge's boma dinner is for guests who want to interact with the bush soul and enjoy the sights and sounds of an African night on a Namibian safari.

What activities does Hobatere Lodge offer?   

• Night Drives
• ​Afternoon Game Drives
• Etosha Game Drive
• Overnighting in a Tree House experience

The Desert Grace 

Rated 4.5 stars on Tripadvisor.

“From the minute we drove onto the premises to the minute we saw it in our rearview mirror it was absolutely amazing.” Kwenanij from Windhoek” “Wow just wow, this place will blow your mind.. Oh talk about the quality of the service, and exclusive privacy… Oh my this place is one of dreams..” Leonard Richard from Pretoria.

What makes The Desert Grace unique?

This Namibia Safari Lodge property provides a never-before-seen peek into the mighty Namib Desert's rhythms. Each building is built entirely of sandbags, rather than bricks, as part of a daring architectural feat. 

These intricately designed bungalows pay homage to old Hollywood in a modern form, making this one of Namibia's most interesting and best safari lodges.

This Namibia safari lodge, which faces west, offers views of the sunset from the warmth of a private plunge pool.

Dining Options at The Desert Grace 

The restaurant at Desert Grace is set up like a food stand, with a buffet of appetisers that includes a variety of salads, bread, cheese, and soup.

There are two main course options: make your own pizza stand and a barbeque/braai stand where you can choose from a range of meats, including some exotic local options.

Dessert is a help-yourself pink flamboyant ice cream cart, which is quite fitting considering the warm desert surroundings.

What activities does Desert Grace offer? 

• nature guide
• Sossusvlei excursion (guided)
• scorpion night walk (guided)
• e-biking guided and self-guided
• walking trails (self-guided) 

Etosha Safari Camp

Rated 4 stars on Tripadvisor.

“ The service was impeccable, the staff were all very friendly and professional.“ Tuna from Windhoek.  “We liked the place! Very cosy and the music in the evening was fun. The dinner was good. We did a tour with 1 female guides through Etosha. Her name is Francelina. We had a wonderful day with her. Because of her african eyes we saw 4 of the big 5. Francelina is a fantastic guide! “ Wim Van Heunen from the Netherlands.

What makes Etosha Safari Camp unique?

The Etosha Safari Camp represents the Namibian Shebeen Culture in everything it provides, making it ideal for a Namibia safari by taking on the iconic location of Etosha and adding a playful-local flair to it.

The Etosha Boys, with their strum guitars and vibrant local songs, offer a Shebeen-style of life that is embraced not only by the bright colours and humour but also by indulging in the local music offered by The Etosha Boys, with their strum guitars and vibrant local songs every evening at this Lodge Safari in Namibia.

Dining at Etosha Safari Camp

A delicious assortment of food is spread out on an old train compartment at this Safari Lodge in Namibia.

During the cooler months, guests can dine in the fascinating 'township' dining rooms or outside in the courtyard, where The Etosha Boys strum guitars and sing lively local songs.

During the day, African wildlife takes precedence for a Namibia Safari at this Etosha Safari camp, which is just a short drive from the lodge's gateway, Andersson Gate.

Activites at Etosha Safari Camp

• Full-Day Game Drive with Wildlife viewing 
• Half-Day Game Drive with Wildlife viewing 

Congratulations, you have reached the end of our list of the best safari lodges in Namibia. We hope this article has helped you prepare for your next trip to Africa and choosing the right safari destinations.

Besides a Namibian safari, there are also several other safari destinations to choose from, such as;  Skeleton Coast ,  Namib Naukluft park ,  South Africa ,  Botswana ,  Kenya ,  Zambia ,  Zimbabwe , and so much more; stay tuned for whatever country or destination gets featured next month. Or why not try out a  self-drive adventure  through Namibia? 

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Discover Namibia’s iconic destinations

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.

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Namibia’s Etosha National Park is a spectacular site for rhino tracking, game drives, nature walks and nocturnal wildlife viewing. The country also is home to the oldest known desert in the world, the Namib, which features eroded canyons, dune belts and dry riverbeds. Here, you can walk amid the world’s tallest sand dunes at Sossusvlei.

Other fantastic landscapes await at Fish River Canyon , the second largest gorge in Africa and a sheer drop from the vast desert plains. Visit the coastal town of Swakopmund, graced by promenades and public gardens, or Windhoek, Namibia’s bustling capital.

Safaris in Namibia are available year-round, although the best game-viewing periods are during the dry winter months of May through September. Winter temperatures can dip below freezing at night, so spring or fall months such as October or April also are enticing. The best months for bird-watching are November to April.

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Inspired by the breath-taking splendor of the southern namibian landscape, offers luxury accommodation which overlooks the majestic horizon., africa safari lodge is situated on-route to the famous travelers’ destination sossusvlei ., africa safari lodge boasts with 20 tastefully decorated chalets, each overlooking the majestic plains, sunset and ink blue night sky with a spectacular show of the galaxy..

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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.

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The best time to visit Namibia is between May and October. We recommend this time to our guests because the dry winter is the best time for a good game viewing safari in Namibia. Furthermore, the weather is pleasant with more moderate temperatures and clear skies. However, evenings can still be quite chilly, so remember to pack warm layers. It’s also an excellent time for families with children or the elderly to travel to Namibia because malaria risk is at its lowest. 

If you visit Namibia in September and October, you can expect very hot weather, whereas June and July can reach freezing temperatures in the evenings. The rainy season is between November and April, which can lead to desert flooding and amazing photo opportunities.

Where do we even start! There’s so much to do in Namibia, which is why it’s a popular travel destination. Home to the oldest desert in the world, the Namib Desert , you naturally have to add this destination to the very top of your list. Sossusvlei , located in this desert, is a salt and clay pan hugged by towering red dunes offering plenty of adventure. You can hike up the biggest dune, Big Daddy, rising about 325 metres high. Or take to the skies to see this dreamlike world from a bird’s eye view. You can also go quad biking if you want to amp up the adrenaline.

Etosha National Park is perfect for a safari in Namibia, with four of the Big 5 (with the exception of the buffalo) calling it home. Other animals you can look forward to seeing include giraffe, cheetah, springbok, hyena, two types of zebra, and many more. 

Namibia is massive and sparsely populated at the same time, with plenty of untouched landscapes and diverse wildlife species to admire. Many of these animals have adapted to the harsh conditions, even thriving against all odds. In areas like Damaraland , you can see this first-hand.

But Namibia is not all about the desert. Its coastline is equally spectacular. For example, plenty of adrenaline-fueled activities await in the coastal city of Swakopmund. Photographers will also be in heaven as the dramatic landscapes and abandoned Kolmankop, an old mining town near Lüderitz that’s now deserted and taken over by dunes. Where the desert meets the ocean, the shipwreck coastline of Skeleton Coast is also a must-visit, especially when you see it from a helicopter. Make sure you also add Caprivi to your itinerary– ideal for everyone who wants to combine a trip to Namibia with Botswana , Zimbabwe or Zambia .

Last but not least, the Waterberg Plateau region offers fascinating cultural insights into the local tribes like the Herero people. It’s also a very scenic destination, with plenty of hiking trails and the chance to admire rock art paintings.

There are so many wonderful destinations in Namibia. Here are just some of the top ones we recommend you add to your itinerary.

-  Sossusvlei 

-  Skeleton Coast

-  Swakopmund

-  Etosha National Park

-  Waterberg Region

-  Windhoek

When booking a safar in Namibiai with us, your Namibia tour will be tailored to your specific needs and wants. Therefore, the total cost will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the duration of your stay, where you’ll be staying, mode of transport, seasonality, and more. As a guideline, our Namibia safaris usually cost between $100 to $1,500 per person per night and depend on service provider availability and seasonality. 

It’s a breeze to get to Namibia as it's so well connected. Daily flights from South Africa and Botswana as well as a Charter Flight Network connecting to nearby lodges for a luxury fly-in safari promise a quick and easy route to your destination in Namibia. You find more details on how to get to Namibia .

Namibia's ocean and desert-scapes are home to a variety of wildlife. To name just a few, these include the Big 5, zebra, free-roaming black rhino, Cape Fur seals, its national symbol the Oryx, as well as various other antelopes. Read more about Namibia's wildlife .

For such a sparsely populated country, Namibia is home to a surprising variety of cultures and traditions. These include many local tribes such as San People, The Himba, Nama, Damara and Herero. German colonisation also left its mark, with German cuisine, architecture and the language that's widely spoken throughout the country. Find out more about Namibia's fascinating cultures .

Nationals from several countries from Australia to the USA are not required a visa to enter Namibia. Travellers are encouraged to check with the embassy before travel to ensure they have the most up-to-date information. 

How long will it take to issue my visa? The waiting period for a Namibian visa is usually 2-3 working days. Same day processing is available for an additional fee. 

What are the visa requirements? Requirements for a holiday and transit visas (single entry only) are: a completed visa application, original passport, motivation letter explaining briefly your purpose, and an itinerary, two passport size photos, and a copy of your air ticket.

In the case of transit visas, applicants must hold a visa or a permit for permanent or temporary residence for their final destination as well.

For how long should my visa be valid? Enquire at the Namibian Embassy in your country for the most up-to-date visa information.

Please ensure that you verify this information independently with the relevant embassy, high commission or consulate.

Namibia is one of the finest (and most popular) self-driving destinations in southern Africa. If you’re planning a self-driving trip through Namibia, there are a few rules to bear in mind. Cars are right-hand drive and everyone drives on the left side of the road. The speed limit on open highways is 120km, and varies between 60km and 80km in towns and cities. You will be required to wear a seatbelt at all times and the use of a cell phone (mobile phone) while driving is illegal.

Namibia’s road network is one of the best in the world, and even their gravel roads are safe to drive on. All road signs are international and easy to understand. Avoid over-correction while driving since many roads have slight bends that may cause cars to slide. Also: be wary of Namibian wildlife crossing or grazing alongside the road.

Gas stations are situated far apart in Namibia so it’s important to refuel regularly while self-driving. Just to be safe, make sure you carry a jerry can of extra fuel on your trip. Please note that some gas stations in Namibia only accept cash payments. It’s recommended that you only drive during the day – after sunrise till before sunset.

The Type M (or South Africa) plug is the standard plug used in Namibia. This plug is larger than the Type D and has three circular pins. Make sure you buy the correct travel adaptor before embarking on your trip to Africa.

Internet access in Namibia is firmly established and stable, so you won’t have too much trouble picking up wifi at hotels or lodges. Most cities have internet cafes as well. Please note, in some remote destinations wifi may not always be available.

Namibia has two major mobile service providers: MTC and Cell One. SIM cards and handsets are readily available throughout the country. If you dial 112 with MTC and 120 with Cell One you’ll get in touch with 24-hour emergency services for police, ambulance, or the fire brigade. Both networks have roaming agreements with international providers. Cellphone coverage is good, though slightly patchy in more remote areas.

Internal post in Namibia is infamously slow, but international post can reach its destination in about two weeks.

If you’re planning a trip to Namibia, here are some helpful hints you need to know before you go:

- Avoid camouflage since it is illegal for civilians to wear this kind of clothing;

- Namibia is a safe country, but if you are self-driving avoid deserted areas and keep your car locked at all times;

- Self-driving trips allow travellers flexibility when traversing through Namibia, but it’s best not to rush them – you’ll enjoy them most if you stay at least 2-3 nights at most places;

- The Sperrgebiet (Forbidden Area) en-route to Lüderitz is a prohibited diamond area and is off-limits to the public;

- Namibia still has not fully embraced homosexuality and we ask that homosexual couples be respectful of the country’s regulations by means of withholding and minimising public displays of affection.

Before going on a trip, it is important to consult your doctor and take out comprehensive travel and health insurance that will cover all of your intended activities while on holiday in Namibia. Here are some helpful health hints to bear in mind:

- There are no mandatory vaccinations for travellers into Namibia unless you are arriving from a yellow fever area – in which case you will have to produce a vaccination certificate upon arrival;

- Malaria: medium risk in Northern Namibia, especially Etosha National Park and the Caprivi Strip, and low to no risk in the rest of the country. The highest risk of transition is in the rainy season from October to May;

- Advanced medical service will mostly be concentrated in main towns and cities;

- Consult your medical practitioner to determine which vaccinations you should renew before travelling to Africa.

Holidaying in Namibia? Here are some important money matters you need to know before you go:

- The Namibian Dollar (N$) is the official currency of Namibia. Notes are in denominations of N$10, 20, 50, 100 and 200. Coins are in denominations of N$5, 50 cents, 10 cents, and 5 cents;

- American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard and Visa are all widely accepted throughout Namibia. The South African Rand (ZAR) is linked to the Namibian Dollar on a 1:1 basis, and is an accepted currency while travelling in Namibia;

- Currency can be exchanged at any of the banks or bureaux de change throughout Namibia;

- Persons over the age of 18 can import the following items without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes, 2 litres of wine or 1 litres of spirits, 50ml of perfume or 250ml of eau de toilette, and gifts to the value of N$3,000;

- The import and export of local currency is limited to N$50,000, while the import and export of foreign currency is unrestricted;

- Banks are generally open from 09:00 to 15:30 on weekdays, and from 09:00 to 11:00 on Saturdays.

Some more useful Namibia Travel Tips

Watch our travel tips videos for more insights into namibia, why book with us.

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• Serengeti National Park 6
• South Africa
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• Kafue National Park 4
• Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park 9
• Hwange National Park 8
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• Okavango Delta 12 (12)
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• Mababe region 0 (0)
• Sossusvlei 11 (11)
• Damaraland 11 (11)
• Kunene region 8 (8)
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• Kafue National Park 4 (4)
• Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park 9 (9)
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• Other 11 (11)
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Get close to rare wildlife, explore otherworldly landscapes and immerse yourself in uncharted territory on a nature drive.

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There’s something epic awaiting at every one of our destinations. Discover Africa’s top attractions when you safari with us.

Botswana, Namibia, Rwanda

Birding with a knowledgeable Wilderness guide is spectacular across all our regions, with 930 different species for twitchers to tick.

Botswana, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Lie on a blanket, behold the beauty of your surrounds, and contemplate space and your place in it when you go stargazing.

Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe

Helicopter safari

Soar above the lush and wildlife-rich Linyanti and Okavango Delta on a breath-taking helicopter safari.

Sleep out under the African night sky with our Star Bed experience. Nothing is quite as thrilling or as romantic on safari.

Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe

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Botswana and Namibia Safari

Find the perfect safari adventure going to Botswana and Namibia . There are 69 tour packages to choose from, that range in length from 7 days up to 24 days.

69 Namibia Botswana safaris with 585 reviews

Namibia, Botswana and Falls - 14 days

'Namibia, Botswana and Falls' was a trip of a lifetime! Our guide Mishek was wonderful, he was really informative, kind and caring. The standard of the accommodation surpassed my expectations. We stayed in some really beautiful boutique properties in spectacular locations. The highlight had to be Ugab Terrace Lodge and the Desert Quiver Camp in Sesriem. Drive days are long and the roads are bumpy but you have to expect that when you're covering such long distances and taking in all the highlights. There was plenty of room in our overland truck for the group to spread out and we all got on so well that time passed quickly. The game drives in Chobe and Etosha were brilliant and I loved the mokoro ride in the Okavango Delta. I also took the optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta which was incredible! I'd highly recommend this tour, I loved every minute of it!

Family Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari Adventure

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

Cape, Delta & Falls - 19 days

Cape Town to Victoria Falls Adventure

Saw lots of animals and birds and met many lovely people and had many unique experiences,

• Overland Truck

Southern Africa Southbound: Dunes, Deltas & Falls

I have had two incredible trips with G Adventures. The guides were fantastic, always full of energy and excited to tell you anything specifically of interest to you to make your trip perfect. Considering the complex itineraries and number of people it's amazing that everything ran more or less smoothly. They packed as much as possible into the time available and didn't waste a minute. I loved the whole thing and will definitely be booking with them again. They take the hassle and stress out of organising leaving you free to enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

12 Days Trail Safari in Namibia, Botswana and Vic Falls (Lodging)

17 Days Trail Safari in Namibia, Botswana and Vic Falls (Lodging & Camping)

Desert, Rock Paintings and Victoria Falls (15 destinations)

Desert, Rock Paintings and Victoria Falls (13 destinations)

Botswana Wildlife Safari

Probably one of the best family holidays we have ever had. Explore do need to watch that the groups are not imbalanced by a large number of single white pensioners

Namibia & Botswana Uncovered

Amazing tour, well organised and such varied activities. Highly recommend.

19-day Cape Town to Victoria Falls (Accommodated)

19-day Victoria Falls to Cape Town (Camping)

The tour is great, you see a lot of things. Especially the nature & animals are amazing and everything is really clean! The only thing I didn't like was that we sat the whole time in the bus driving & just had a few times the possibilitie to walk around.

The Grand Southern Safari

The itenerary was not always followed. The most egregious problem was staying 250 km (3 hrs.) on an extremely rough road from the gate of sossusvlei (dunes). It also made the day before about 150 km longer and the day after 100km longer. Neither accommodation listed on the itinerary was used. We also didn't get a half day in the delta that was on the itinerary. I will send a more detailed evaluation to trip advisor when we finish our trip.

Namibia Nomad

The Namibia Nomad tour exceeded all expectations that I had prior to departing. Not only was the route excellent and included a number of interesting stops and activities to partake in, but our guide Peter did an excellent job in coordinating all members of the tour and requisite meals. During the three weeks on the truck I do not recall eating the same dinner twice which speaks to Peter's cooking prowess. I made many good friends on this tour whilst partaking in a wide range of awesome activities. While some of the drives were stated to be long, they were shorter than I anticipated and were passed quickly by reading and playing games with other members on the tour. Overall a highly recommended tour. The front office staff were extremely contactable and responded to my emails promptly. The staff on the tour were personable and fun too.

Botswana Namibia Safari Reviews

'Namibia, Botswana and Falls' was a trip of a lifetime! Our guide Mishek was wonderful, he was really informative, kind and caring. The standard of the accommodation surpassed my expectations. We stayed in some really beautiful boutique properties in spectacular locations. The highlight had to be Ugab Terrace Lodge and the Desert Quiver Camp in Sesriem. Drive days are long and the roads are bumpy but you have to expect that when you're covering such long distances and taking in all the highlights. There was plenty of room in our overland truck for the group to spread out and we all got on so well that time passed quickly. The game drives in Chobe and Etosha were brilliant and I loved the mokoro ride in the Okavango Delta. I also took the optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta which was incredible! I'd highly recommend this tour, I loved every minute of it!

This is an excellent tour but it's certainly not relaxing! We had 2 brilliant leaders who were very knowledgable and looked after us very, very well. Very long days, only occasionally did we reach our overnight accommodation with time spare to relax/swim. Lots of like-minded travelling companions, many of whom had done several GAdventure tours in the past and all of them were very good company.

Amazing experience. Everything was pretty much perfect minus some minor defects on the vehicle (air conditioning vents being placed poorly such that items in the overhead bins always covered them, usb chargers being placed such that they dig into your leg and take away a lot of leg room).

Safari Tours

• Wildlife (40)

Travel Styles

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• 10 Best Safaris in April 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in March 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in February 2024/2025
• 10 Best Luxury African Safari Tours 2024/2025

African Safaris

• Epic Botswana & Namibia Safari
• Itineraries

2024 Itinerary

Physical Rating: Easy to Moderate

Victoria falls extension, wild cape coast extension, cape town extension, sabi sand extension, namibia hot air balloon safari.

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Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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Dove fare un safari in Africa quest’estate

Dal Kenya alla Tanzania, i parchi più belli per una full immersion nella natura selvaggia

L’Africa è un continente affascinante e prospero di bellezze naturali, dove si trovano alcuni tra i parchi biologici più belli e importanti al mondo. Habitat naturali da proteggere e valorizzare ma anche da ammirare. Partire per un safari in Africa fa scoprire mondi nuovi e indimenticabili. Gli animali selvatici , i baobab e la meraviglia di trovarsi in mezzo alla savana, sono ciò che rende magica un'esperienza come questa. Decidere tra Tanzania, Kenya, Namibia o Botswana dipende da cosa si preferisce vedere e soprattutto da quali animali si vogliono avvistare . Ecco i parchi più belli dove fare un safari d'estate.

Kenya, Parco Nazionale Masai Mara e Lago Nakuru

Il Kenya ha grandi riserve naturali dove vivono tribù come quella dei Masai Mara . Il Maasai Mara in Kenya è tra le riserve più famose in Africa , qui si possono incontrare leopardi, leoni, elefanti, rinoceronti e bufali. Assistere, inoltre, allo spettacolo della Grande Migrazione , permette di avvistare branchi di gnu e di altri animali che arrivano nella Riserva tra luglio e ottobre per poi rientrare nella vicina Tanzania. Durante la Grande Migrazione gli animali iniziano a radunarsi nella vallata del Serengeti, in Tanzania, dopo le piogge per poi partire verso il Kenya. Nel mese di ottobre ritornano a sud, verso la Tanzania e il Ngorongoro, per la stagione riproduttiva. La Riserva Nazionale Masai Mara e il Parco Nazionale del Lago Nakuru nella Great Rift Valley sono un ormai un must per molti turisti, questo gioca a sfavore rispetto all’esperienza che potrebbe essere un po ' sovraffollata. I mesi migliori sono da maggio ad ottobre , ovvero la stagione secca in cui le temperature sono più indicate per i safari. Il Kenya è tra i paesi dell’Africa più amati.

Tanzania, Parco Nazionale Serengeti e Cratere Ngorongoro

Nel nord della Tanzania, tra il lago Vittoria e il Kenya, troviamo il Parco Nazionale del Serengeti , Patrimonio dell’Umanità dall’UNESCO, uno dei parchi più importanti e protetti al mondo, dieci volte più grande del Maasai Mara in Kenya; il Serengeti ospita la più grande concentrazione di erbivori del mondo e qui ogni anno si può assistere alla Grande Migrazione di gnu, gazzelle e zebre che si riversano nelle pianure, dove troviamo anche una numerosa popolazione di leoni. Il Cratere Ngorongoro, invece è una caldera vulcanica che racchiude nei suoi 250 chilometri quadrati, foreste, laghi e pianure e ospita poi una fantastica concentrazione di elefanti, leoni così come il raro rinoceronte nero. In Tanzania la natura è strepitosa grazie anche alle sorgenti del Nilo e del Congo . Il Serengeti ospita la più grande concentrazione di erbivori del mondo. Per assistere alla Grande Migrazione i mesi migliori sono da luglio ad ottobre.

Namibia, Parco Nazionale Etosha

Il parco più famoso della Namibia è il Parco dell'Etosha , il cui nome significa grande luogo bianco , come il colore del suolo del deserto salino, l'Etosha Pan, che occupa gran parte di questo territorio. Nel parco è possibile avvistare i Big Five citati anche prima ovvero: leopardi, leoni, elefanti, rinoceronti e bufali, ma anche zebre, giraffe e sciacalli. Il Parco ha diverse pozze artificiali che, data l’ assenza di acqua, attirano gli animali permettendo ai viaggiatori di poterli ammirare da vicino. Il Parco dell'Etosha è adatto anche ai viaggiatori che preferiscono viaggiare in solitaria . Le grandissime distese della Namibia, quasi prive d’acqua, sono uno spettacolo lunare da non perdere. Il periodo estivo come per il resto delle mete è il migliore.

Sudafrica, Parco Nazionale Kruger

Il Sudafrica offre una gran scelta di posti dove fare un safari. Il Parco Nazionale Kruger , Patrimonio Unesco, è il parco più conosciuto; inaugurato nel 1988, si trova nel Nord del Paese e si estende su un territorio di 20000 chilometri quadrati . Anche qui i Big Five sono di casa e il parco è ben organizzato per l’avvistamento grazie a bacheche e lavagne usate per segnalare i punti migliori per trovarli, uno strumento utile specialmente, per fare un safari in self-drive. Grazie alle strade asfaltate , il Sudafrica, così come la Namibia, è un paese più sicuro per il self drive. Il periodo migliore per andarci va da a prile a settembre.

Botswana, il Chobe National Park

Il Botswana vanta parchi naturali bellissimi , e viene chiamato la terra dei giganti perché qui vive la maggior parte degli elefanti africani, circa 120.000 esemplari. Nel Chobe National Park si possono incontrare ippopotami e coccodrilli. Il Botswana è una terra incontaminata dove facilmente si incontrano animali; ideale per un safari avventuroso immersi nella natura dominante. Il Chobe National Park fu il primo parco nazionale del Botswana, istituito nel 1968 , è suddiviso in quattro aree geografiche . Tra le esperienze da fare c’è la crociera sul fiume Chobe, le rive sono frequentate da branchi di erbivori e da famiglie di elefanti, soprattutto la sera. L’ enorme delta dell’Okavango è, invece, un habitat unico da sorvolare con un volo a bassa quota durante il tramonto per avvistare antilopi, bufali, gazzelle, leoni, zebre, elefanti, leopardi, ippopotami, ghepardi e coccodrilli.

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