Namibia Travel Guide

Namibia Ultimate Travel Guide

Situated at the South-western coast of Africa, Namibia is one of the most riveting destinations to visit on earth especially for nature fanatics.

The country offers a little of everything – from quaint laidback towns and arid deserts to a huge coastline along the Atlantic Ocean as well as bustling cities.

Here is Namibia ultimate travel guide that will make your trip planning a tad bit easier;

The Best Attractions to Visit in Namibia

1. The Fish River Canyon

The second-largest canyon in the globe surpassed only by the massive Grand Canyon in Arizona, The Fish River is a spectacle that stretches over 100 miles in length, 16 miles in width, and about 0.31 miles in depth.

The canyon is located at the southern tip of Namibia, approximately 90 miles from the city of keetmanshoop.

This brutal landscape boasts astounding views from any part of the canyon’s rim and it’s one of those unmissable places if you’re eager to reconnect with nature.

The Fish River Canyon has evolved to be a fabled hiking destination with the breath-taking scenery being the highlight of every excursion in the area.

Although the multi-day Fish River Hiking Trail is the most popular attraction for many, it’s possible to take a day hike.

But in this case, you should prepare for a dawn to dusk hiking as it takes almost 6 hours from the rim of the canyon to the floor of the valleys.

2. Deadvlei

Nestled within the borders of the vast Namib-Naukluft Park, Deadvlei is among the most iconic and photographed attractions in Namibia.

Dead Vlei simply means dead marsh – what used to be wet marsh over a thousand years ago has gradually dried up leaving behind quirky white clay pan.

This arid piece of land that dried up as a result of climate change is a boneyard for dried-up trees but, for a barren lifeless locale, Deadvlei is quite magical.

The white clay pan contrasts perfectly with varied hues of orange reflecting from some of the largest dunes in the world which surround the area.

3. Hoba meteorite

Hoba meteorite is situated on Hoba farm 14 miles from Grootfontein, in the same location in which it was discovered almost a century ago.

Weighing about 60 tonnes, the Hoba meteorite is the largest meteorite ever discovered on earth.

You don’t have to be a geographer to enjoy touching this unworldly piece of iron. After all, any adventure-seeking soul would travel across the earth to experience a phenomenon beyond this world.

However, this is not an action or show-packed destination, so, don’t come here expecting much. It’s simply a rock from the galaxy with a lot of historic and scientific significance.

There is also a shaded picnic and BBQ area where you can sit and chill as well as a small curio shop where you can buy leaflets with interesting facts about the meteorite.

4. Namib Desert

A trip to the Namib Desert is a must in any Namibian travel itinerary.

Stretching for over a thousand miles along the Atlantic, the Namib Desert boasts some of the most awe-inspiring sights in the world.

The desert is believed to have braved through arid and semi-arid weather conditions for over 50 million years, probably the reason why it’s credited as the oldest and almost the driest desert on earth.

Yet it’s so charming with its majestic saltating dunes that rise as high as 1256 feet above sea level.

5. Kolmanskop Ghost Town

Kolmanskop was a thriving town soon after the discovery of diamonds in the area in 1908.

But, the diamond rush quickly came to an end in the 1950s and while the diamond mining industry continued in other parts of the country, this mining settlement that carved up from the desert would ultimately fizzle out and become a ghost town.

Today, Kolmanskop is eerie yet a captivating reminder of the past.

With every passing year, the sand storms swallow the houses as the desert claims its territory back.

However, the touristic potential of this ghost town was rediscovered in the 80s and some houses were dug up and repurposed for visitation.

The ghost town still tells the tale of the rise and decline of Kolmanskop thanks to the homes with luxurious features –which are still apparent despite the daily sandblasting.

Major Cities in Namibia

· Windhoek – The capital and the largest city in Namibia

· Rundu

· Walvis Bay

· Oshakati

· Swakopmund

· Katima Mulilo

· Grootfontein

· Rehoboth

· Otjiwarongo

· Okahandja

The Best Places to Stay in Namibia

Luxury

· The Olive Exclusive All-Suite Hotel

The Olive Exclusive All-Suite Hotel is set at the outskirts of Windhoek and it’s the best place to stay if you want an ultra-luxury hub that combines a modern feel with a touch of African beauty.

The all-suite boutique hotel gives you an opportunity to spoil yourself while setting you in a perfect location from where you can explore the desert wonder this country has to offer.

Four out of the 7 suites boast plunge pools while all the rooms are well equipped with modern technology to keep you occupied after your day excursions.

There is also an excellent restaurant which offers a seasonal menu.

Cost; $214 – $550 per night depending on the suite and the season

Mid-range

· Hilton Windhoek

Besides being a family-friendly accommodation, Hilton Windhoek is also in a great location, close to all the city attractions such as Alte feste Museum.

The hotel features a luxurious spa, five restaurants (and bars), and a rooftop pool that offer panoramic views of the city.

Cost; from $77 per night

Budget

· Villa Africa Guesthouse & Tsumeb Backpackers

Located 0.6 miles from the quint town of Tsumeb and about 55 miles from Etosha, this 2-star accommodation is a great place to stay if you’re traveling on a shoe-string budget.

Most rooms boast a private bathroom, a kettle, a comfy bed, and a seating area but there is also an option of a bed in a dormitory with shared facilities

The outdoor pool comes in handy on those hot days but the free bikes offered by the facility are the toppings on the cake as you can explore the neighborhood with ease.

How to Get Around Namibia

· Planes

Hosea Kutako International Airport is the largest airport in Namibia which offers international connections.

Air Namibia provides an extensive network of domestic flights and operates mainly out of Windhoek Eros Airport.

You can also book charter flights through tour operators if you want to experience game parks or the mighty Victoria Falls in style.

· Car Hire

Hiring a car is hands down the most convenient way to get around Namibia. Not only do you enjoy the luxury of planning where to be at what time, but it’s also the easiest way to access all attractions if you’ve planned a DIY visit.

· Mini buses

Namibia is a sparsely populated country, probably the main reason why there isn't an established public transport system.

Although there are many minibusses connecting small towns and villages, this is not a viable way to get around especially if you want to explore attractions around the country.

Travel Pack list and Tips

· Invest in good shoes

Don’t let Namibia’s subtropical climate fool you into packing only flip flops and sandals.

Whether you’ll be exploring the canyons, traversing the wilderness on a safari, or walking up the dunes, a comfortable pair of closed-toe walking shoes or boots is a must.

· Park for hot days and chilly nights

Namibia is set on an arid eco-region which means it can be scorching hot during the day and cold at night.

Must-try Food in Namibia

· Oshithima (Maize or Mahangu Pap)

· Omboga (Dried Wild Spinach)

· Oodhingu (Dried Meat)

· Potjiekos

· Biltong

· Kapana (Grilled Beef)

· Zambezi Bream (Fish)

· Omagungu (Mopane Worm)