WANDERLIST Namibia: Ten must-see attractions (and some off-the-beaten-track)

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Big, empty and located in the southwestern corner of Africa, Namibia is a destination that offers a multitude of natural wonders and cultural experiences, vast landscapes encompassing some of the world’s driest deserts, some of the world’s deepest canyons and big five wildlife.

  • Namib Desert & Sossusvlei: Begin your adventure in the Namib Desert, home to the world’s highest sand dunes. Witness the magical sunrise over Sossusvlei and explore the Dead Vlei, with its surreal white clay pan and petrified trees.
  • Etosha National Park: Embark on thrilling game drives in Etosha National Park, renowned for its vast salt pan and abundant wildlife. Spot majestic elephants, giraffes, lions, and cheetahs against the backdrop of the African savannah.
  • Fish River Canyon: Admire the jaw-dropping grandeur of Fish River Canyon, one of Africa’s largest canyons. Hike along the rim and enjoy panoramic views of the rugged landscape and meandering river below.
  • Skeleton Coast: Uncover the hauntingly beautiful Skeleton Coast, where the massive Atlantic Ocean collides with the Namib Desert. Explore its desolate shores, shipwrecks, and encounter Cape fur seals and desert-adapted wildlife.
  • Swakopmund: Immerse yourself in the coastal town of Swakopmund. Indulge in thrilling activities such as quad biking, sandboarding, or take a boat trip to observe marine life, including dolphins and seals.
  • Twyfelfontein: Discover the ancient rock engravings at Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire over 2,000 depictions, depicting the lives and rituals of the San people who lived here thousands of years ago.
  • Himba Villages: Gain insight into the traditional tribal life of the Himba people by visiting their remote villages in the Kunene region. Experience their culture, art, and way of life as you interact with the local community.
  • Lüderitz: Take a journey back in time in the historic town of Lüderitz, known for its well-preserved German colonial architecture. Explore Kolmanskop, a ghost town engulfed by shifting sands, and visit the iconic Felsenkirche (Church on the Rocks).
  • Cape Cross Seal Reserve: Witness one of Africa’s largest colonies of Cape fur seals at the Cape Cross Seal Reserve. Observe their playful antics and the cacophony of sounds as they occupy the coastline.
  • Kaokoland: Venture into the remote wilderness of Kaokoland, a region known for its dramatic landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. Encounter desert-adapted elephants, meet the Himba people, and explore rugged mountain ranges.
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Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:

  • Spitzkoppe: Admire the striking granite peaks of Spitzkoppe, a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through extraordinary rock formations, admire San rock art, and camp beneath a sky ablaze with stars.
  • Waterberg Plateau Park: Escape the crowds and explore the biodiversity of Waterberg Plateau Park. Embark on guided hikes, spot endangered species like black rhinos, and visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund.
  • Damaraland: Discover the surreal landscapes of Damaraland, where ancient valleys, towering granite mountains, and bizarre rock formations converge. Encounter desert elephants, visit the Brandberg Mountain, and witness the ancient Welwitschia plants.
  • Cape Cross to Terrace Bay Coastal Route: Embark on a scenic coastal drive from Cape Cross to Terrace Bay, taking in the rugged shoreline, shipwrecks, and dune formations. It’s an adventure for those seeking solitude and vistas.
  • Epupa Falls: Delight in the natural splendour of Epupa Falls, located on the Kunene River. Enjoy the cascades, take a refreshing dip, and witness the traditional Himba community living harmoniously with nature.
  • Sperrgebiet National Park: Traverse the desolate landscape of Sperrgebiet National Park, a restricted area rich in history and natural wonders. Explore abandoned diamond mines, shipwrecks, and uncover a wealth of flora and fauna.
  • Brukkaros Volcano: Ascend the dormant Brukkaros Volcano, an otherworldly sight offering panoramic views of its crater and the surrounding landscapes. Hike to the top for a perspective on this ancient geological wonder.
  • Kunene River: Experience the tranquility of the Kunene River, serving as a natural border between Namibia and Angola. Enjoy river cruises, go fishing, or simply immerse yourself in the scenery.
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