Namibia

 
 

OVERVIEW

Namibia, located in southwestern Africa, is a land of captivating contrasts and breathtaking natural beauty.  With its vast, arid deserts, notably the otherworldly Namib Desert, where towering dunes stretch endlessly, and the strikingly surreal landscapes of the Skeleton Coast, Namibia is a paradise for adventurous travellers and photographers.  Its diverse wildlife thrives in the protected reserves of Etosha National Park, home to an array of species, while the nation's rich cultural tapestry is woven from the threads of indigenous communities and colonial influences.  Namibia's peaceful and politically stable environment, coupled with its striking landscapes, makes it a unique and enticing destination for those seeking a blend of natural wonders and cultural discovery.

  • A few facts

    Despite being one of the largest countries in Africa, Namibia has a relatively small population of approx. 2.5 million people. The official language is English however Oshiwambo is the most widely spoken language in the country and is often used in daily communication. Windhoek (pr. VIN-took) is the capital, and the country uses its own currency, the Namibian Dollar N$. South African Rands ZAR are widely accepted as well and can be exchanged at a 1:1 rate.

  • Namibia is proud of ...

    … the international recognition it has gained for its innovative approach to wildlife conservation. The country has implemented community-based conservation programs and sustainable tourism practices that have helped protect its diverse wildlife, including rhinos, elephants, and cheetahs. This approach has contributed to the recovery of some endangered species and is seen as a model for conservation efforts worldwide.

  • Vaccinations

    There are no vaccination requirements for Namibia, however as malaria is prevalent in some areas, particularly in the northern regions, it is highly recommended that you visit your Travel Doctor prior to travelling to ensure all your recommended shots and prophylactics are up to date.

  • Visa

    A visa is required for most passport holders to visit Namibia. Guests will need a valid passport with 3 blank pages, the visa can be applied for online prior to departure. Please enquire for more information and costs.

    If travelling from a Yellow Fever listed country, e.g. Kenya, a Yellow Fever certificate will also be required.

NAMIBIA ACCOMODATION

THE ELEGANT GUESTHOUSE, WINDHOEK

The Elegant Collection is the operating arm of a small collection of properties situated in Namibia. The business was created by a handful of Namibian entrepreneurs who wanted to combine their passion for travel and tourism with simple yet elegant properties that could be enjoyed by visitors to this awesome country we love. Their mantra is simple, yet profound. Creating extraordinary experiences for ordinary people. They focus on being relevant in the key tourism highlight areas, whilst always providing the best value for money for their guests. Their focus is on experiences and ensuring that they provide excellent service and genuine hospitality that makes staying with them part of the memory of your travels in Namibia.

 

DESERT HOMESTEAD LODGE, SOSSUSVLEI

While close to Sesriem and Sossusvlei, The Desert Homestead is more about a tranquil experience of the Namib Desert on horseback than the spectacle of the great sand dunes. The lodge is made up of beautiful thatch-roofed pastel-walled chalets that lend themselves to the quiet charm of this magical region. Inside the 27 chalets (including a family room), the serenity continues: soft, white linens against dark furniture and whitewashed walls. Private verandahs look out over the plain that is framed by craggy mountains in every direction. The main lodge is a light and airy mix of open relaxation and cosy retreat. Hearty homestead meals are enriched by the setting and with home-grown ingredients. The swimming pools provide languid refreshment after a hot day's excursion. 

 

SWAKOPMUND LUXURY SUITES

Although “suites” is a bit of stretch size-wise, for comfort you can expect elegant, neutral décor that is easy on the senses and top quality linen with quite possibly the most comfortable bed you’ll encounter on your tour of Namibia. Attention to detail includes Nespresso machines with complimentary pods, bath robes, extra thick towels, wi-fi that actually works, climate control, mini-bar and that general air of purpose and cleanliness of a professional outfit. For convenience you are a few minutes’ walk to the beach, restaurants, cafes and main attractions of central Swakopmund - a feature you will welcome after many hours’ in the car on Namibia’s long and dusty roads. And the day reception is staffed with the friendliest of friendly Namibians who add that personal touch and valuable insider’s information for making the most of your visit. A secluded upper deck lined with comfortable recliners and deck chairs is a wonderful place to catch up with your digital life. Or escape it entirely with a good book and a glass of chardonnay. Parking out front is secure with 24-hour watch and CCTV and, occupying the first storey down a pedestrianised side street, the location is quiet and safe. Breakfast at the Swakopmund Luxury Suites is a delight. The breakfast room is stunning and the food is delicious. A great way to start your day before you head off to explore where the dunes meet the sea. You are just a short walk to the main beach and the main streets of town. Splendid.

 

TWYFELFONTEIN COUNTRY LODGE, DAMARALAND

Damaraland is a region of ancient oddities and Twyfelfontein Country Lodge is slap bang in the middle. Its cool interior, camouflage exterior and all-important swimming pool turn this humble lodge into a veritable oasis. Built from thatch and local stone, the 56 en suite rooms and main living area do a remarkable job of blending in with the red-rock and bleached grass that surround the lodge. The rooms are basic, comfortable and make way for the splendid restaurant, bar and swimming pool area. Twyfelfontein is where you go to experience the phenomenal age of the Namib's interior. Ancient volcanic rock formations are the canvas for San rock paintings and engravings and the delicate ecosystem supports some amazing flora and fauna. Like the Welwitschia, which lives for about 2,000 years and sprouts a single pair of leaves that lie in a tangled heap on the ground. Ideally located about as close as you can get to the sights of the area. By no means small or intimate. Here it is all about location, location, location.

 

TWYFELFONTEIN ADVENTURE CAMP, DAMARALAND

Nestled in the rolling boulders of a granite outcrop, Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp is conveniently situated a ten-minute drive from Twyfelfontein rock engravings, within walking distance of the Damara Living Museum, and within the Huab River Valley. A visit to the neighboring Damara Living Museum offers a fascinating look into the people, heritage, pulse, and soul of Damaraland. Optional activities include sundowner drives as well as a scenic nature drive in the ephemeral Huab River and surrounding valley, including a picnic lunch. This excursion exposes visitors to unique geological formations and the possibility of sighting the elusive desert-adapted elephants and rhinos.

 

ETOSHA SAFARI LODGE - SOUTHERN GATE

Etosha Safari Lodge, although on the larger side, offers a peaceful atmosphere and a rustic ambience of tasteful decor. And of course there's that view. Endless. The Gondwana Collection, having established itself as an industry-leading eco-tourism operator in southern Namibia, brings its impeccable eco-values to the edge of Etosha. With individual chalets spread along a low hill overlooking a vast expanse of African bush, Etosha Safari Lodge offers comfort, convenience and that ever-important feeling of being far from people and deep in the beautiful countryside. The lodge is nine kilometers from the southern entrance to Etosha National Park - Namibia's premier safari destination - it's an easy drive into the park with your guide to enjoy exceptional game viewing at one of many natural waterholes on the edge of the Etosha Pan.  Your guide will offer some amazing insight into the animals, birds, plants and history of the area. When you are not in the park make use of any of the three swimming pools, enjoy a drink at the bar which overlooks this mopane savannah, or relax in your air conditioned chalet. The 65 double chalets, spaced well apart from each other, are fitted with a solar geysers (with electric back-up to ensure hot water at all times), en suite bathrooms, and large verandahs to embrace the never ending views.

 

ETOSHA VILLAGE - SOUTHERN GATE

Etosha Village in Namibia is a charming and comfortable safari lodge located on the doorstep of the renowned Etosha National Park. Nestled amid the African bush, this eco-friendly lodge offers a unique blend of modern amenities and a rustic safari experience. Guests can choose from various types of accommodation, including luxury tents and chalets, all designed to provide a cozy retreat after a day of wildlife exploration. The lodge's proximity to Etosha National Park allows for easy access to some of Africa's most captivating wildlife encounters, making it an excellent base for safari enthusiasts and nature lovers. Etosha Village is a place where travellers can immerse themselves in the beauty of Namibia's natural landscapes while enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed lodge.

 

MUSHARA BUSH CAMP - EASTERN GATE

Mushara Bush Camp offers a welcoming and authentic tented bush experience just a short drive from the eastern gate of Etosha National Park, making it a perfect base for wildlife lovers and families alike. Set among the sweeping plains of Namibia, this down‑to‑earth camp features spacious, airy tents with en‑suite bathrooms and private verandas where you can soak up the sights and sounds of the surrounding bush. Gather around the campfire in the early evenings to share stories of your safari sightings, and enjoy delicious meals served on the thatched veranda as nature unfolds before you. Little ones are well catered for with a dedicated play area and swimming pool, while adults can relax and unwind after a day on game drives. With warm hospitality, comfortable accommodation and easy access to Etosha’s spectacular wildlife, Mushara Bush Camp offers an unforgettable and relaxed safari stay in the heart of Namibia.

 

MOKUTI ETOSHA LODGE - EASTERN GATE

Mokuti Lodge is a large and embracing hotel that provides the ideal base for daily self-drive and guided safaris into the game reserve. A few minutes' drive to the eastern entrance to Etosha National Park and surrounded by 4,300 hectares of private land itself a mini Etosha. Situated 2km from the Von Lindequist gate, Mokuti Lodge has 106 en suite rooms of varying sizes and with unvarying chain-like décor. All under thatch and surrounded by a well tended lawn, the lodge features à la carte dining as well as a carvery buffet in the boma for al fresco fire-lit dinners. With families and short attention spans in mind, the lodge has two large swimming pools, two bars - one by the pool for maximum down-time - volleyball, tennis and a reptile park and bird hide. A fully equipped gym and a health spa complete the amenities roll call. Daily guided game drive safaris into Etosha are the focus at Mokuti Lodge and you have a choice of morning, afternoon or full day excursions. On the lodge's grounds outside the park there are walking and mountain bike trails for an up close and wild encounter with nature.

 

NAMIBIAN WILDLIFE RESORTS

Namibian Wildlife Resorts (NWR) in Etosha is a network of well-managed accommodations and campsites within Etosha National Park, one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations, suitable for the more budget conscious. These lodges and campsites offer visitors the opportunity to stay within the park's boundaries, allowing for an immersive safari experience. Whether you choose to stay in one of the park's rest camps or campsites, NWR provides comfortable facilities and access to waterholes where you can witness incredible wildlife encounters, including sightings of elephants, lions, rhinos, and more. It's a convenient and authentic way to explore the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife that make Etosha a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and safari lovers in Namibia.

 

NAMIBIA HIGHLIGHTS

FISH RIVER CANYON

 
 

Fish River Canyon in Namibia is a breathtaking natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe of its immense scale and stunning beauty. This colossal canyon ranks among the largest in the world, second only to the Grand Canyon in the United States of America, showcasing a mesmerizing landscape of rugged rock formations and a meandering river that has carved its way through the arid terrain over millions of years. Its vastness is best appreciated from the various viewpoints along the rim, where you can gaze down into the abyss and witness the play of light and shadow on the canyon's walls. For adventure enthusiasts, the Fish River Hiking Trail provides a challenging multi-day trek through the canyon's depths, offering a unique opportunity to explore its hidden nooks and crannies. Fish River Canyon is a testament to the forces of nature, offering a captivating destination for those seeking both natural beauty and outdoor adventure in Namibia's remarkable desert landscapes.

The Fish River is 800 kilometres long and thus the longest river of Namibia. It has its source in the eastern parts of the Naukluft Mountains. After about 200 km the river flows into the Hardap Dam which is the largest water reservoir of the country with a circumference of 30 km and a surface area of 28 km². After being retained the Fish River does not carry water continuously, only during the rainy season the river might turns into a torrent. During the dry season sporadic pools supply water to many animals. The canyon commences at Seeheim, at the lower course of the River. The Canyon is 161 km long, 27 km wide and up to 550m deep. The Fish River Canyon ends at Ai Ais and the river then flows into the Orange River, the border to South Africa.

SOSSUSVLEI DUNES

 
 

Sossusvlei, nestled within the vast Namib-Naukluft National Park in Namibia, is a natural masterpiece that beckons travelers with its surreal beauty. The iconic dunes of Sossusvlei, formed over millions of years by wind and time, stand as some of the tallest in the world, with some reaching heights of more than 1,000 feet (300 meters). These majestic sand mountains are a vivid burnt orange-red, creating a stark and stunning contrast against the deep blue desert sky. The play of light and shadow on the dunes throughout the day, especially during sunrise and sunset, transforms the landscape into a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors, making it a photographer's dream and a meditative paradise for nature enthusiasts.

One of the most captivating features within the Sossusvlei area is Deadvlei, a white clay pan surrounded by towering dunes. In this hauntingly beautiful setting, the skeletal remains of ancient camel thorn trees reach up from the cracked, dry earth, creating a stark and eerie tableau. Deadvlei's name, which translates to "dead marsh," reflects the lack of water in the pan, giving rise to the stark contrast between the bleached-white clay, the dark shadows of the dunes, and the vivid blue skies. Sossusvlei and its surrounding dunes are a testament to the raw power of nature, offering visitors an opportunity to connect with the sublime beauty and quiet grandeur of the Namib Desert's ever-shifting sandscape.

SESRIEM CANYON

 

Sesriem Canyon, located in the heart of the Namib Desert in Namibia, is a geological marvel that offers a striking contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. This natural wonder has been carved over millions of years by the Tsauchab River, which has etched its way through layers of sedimentary rock to create a narrow and deep chasm. Sesriem Canyon is a testament to the power of erosion, and its towering rock walls, which rise up to 30 meters in places, create a unique and enchanting setting for visitors to explore.

Exploring Sesriem Canyon is a journey through time, as the exposed rock layers reveal the geological history of the region. The canyon is particularly captivating in the early morning and late afternoon when the sunlight bathes its walls in warm hues, creating a stunning interplay of light and shadow. Visitors can embark on a hike through the canyon, following the riverbed and winding their way between the smooth, sculpted rocks. In some places, you may encounter small pools of water, providing a vital resource for local wildlife in this otherwise parched desert environment. Sesriem Canyon serves as a captivating introduction to the unique geological and natural wonders that abound in Namibia's vast and diverse landscapes.

DEAD VLEI

 
 

Dead Vlei, situated within the Namib-Naukluft National Park in Namibia, is an otherworldly desert pan that captivates visitors with its surreal and haunting beauty. This striking landscape is a stark contrast to the towering red sand dunes that surround it. In Dead Vlei, the stark white clay pan is dotted with the eerie and gnarled skeletons of ancient camel thorn trees. These desiccated trees, believed to be over 900 years old, have been preserved due to the extremely dry climate and arid conditions of the region. The backdrop of rust-colored dunes and the bleached-white clay pan creates a visually stunning tableau that is often described as a photographer's paradise and a place of quiet contemplation.

The name "Dead Vlei" translates to "dead marsh," and it perfectly encapsulates the essence of this remarkable place. The area was once a marsh with a flowing river, but over time, the shifting sands of the Namib Desert blocked the Tsauchab River's access to the pan, causing the trees to die from lack of water. The resulting scene is one of stark contrast and stark beauty, with the charcoal-black tree skeletons set against the vibrant colors of the desert. Visiting Dead Vlei is a journey into an otherworldly realm, offering a profound connection to the forces of nature and the passage of time in the heart of one of the world's oldest and most unique deserts.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

A full range of activities are offered to guests and can be booked for the days where leisure time is available.  Options include skydiving, quad-biking over the dunes, discover where the dunes meet the sea, try an e-bike or scooter tour in the desert or around town, do a township tour or cruise in the bay, try some shore fishing, or fly high in a hot air balloon along the coast over the desert or over the Sossusvlei Dunes. An alternative is to use the Swakopmund days as downtime to walk and explore the town, support the beautiful shops in the village and try a “boot full of beer” at the Swakopmund Brauhaus. We highly recommend that you pre-book any optional touring prior to final payment to avoid disappointment.