Traversing Namibia's Diverse Magical Landscapes
by GR June 30, 2024
Namibia is one of those magical places in this world where its beauty and raw energy of nature cannot be justified by words or images. It has big deserts, mountains, and beautiful coastlines. It's great for backpackers who want adventure and amazing views, as well as burnt out professionals and mid-life-crisis explorers.
This African country has beautiful nature, lots of animals, and a lively culture. It's perfect for people who enjoy exploring new and less-traveled places. Namibia has diverse landscapes to discover. The Namib Desert features towering sand dunes. The Caprivi Strip boasts lush green areas.
Getting There
You’ll want to start your journey in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, to acclimatize and explore the local culture.
Book a flight to Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek; major airlines like Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and South African Airways have connections to Windhoek from various international hubs.
Recommended Retreats
Traditional Safary
Discover the wonders of Namibia on a retreat that encapsulates the essence of this unique destination, from the vast Namib Desert to the eerie Skeleton Coast and the abundant wildlife of Etosha National Park.
As the first rays of sunrise illuminate the sand dunes, a breathtaking panorama of pastel hues unfolds, creating an ideal setting for yoga and holistic wellness. Walking across the rippled sand, you feel connected to a rainbow of colors revealed only by the dawn light. The profound silence, broken only by your footsteps and breath, offers a tranquil escape from the noise of daily life.
Though the Namib Desert may seem harsh and barren, it is teeming with fragile and remarkable wildlife, highlighting the delicate balance of nature in this extraordinary landscape.
For the Burnt Out Professionals
If you feel like you need to escape your daily routine and immerse yourself in the serene and healing environment of the African bush, embracing the natural pace of life, then Sandwerf offers a unique chance to fulfill your needs.
Over the past two years, Sandwerf has carefully crafted a professional guided healing retreat that allows you to slow down, practice mindfulness, and disconnect from the electronic world. The natural rhythms of sunrise, sunset, and the phases of the moon set the pace for your days.
Participants will receive a certificate of participation from our project supervisor, Dr. Gudrun Hoika-Messing-Flöter, a licensed psychotherapist from Germany, which can be used for VAT or medical refund claims in your home country.
The therapists and teachers at Sandwerf are incredibly passionate and provide healthy tools and strategies to help you unwind and clear your mind. The animal therapists, including horses and alpacas, are there to help you to live in the present moment and find calmness and balance.
The retreat program is a well-balanced mix of group sessions and private sessions with the psychologist, focusing on reflection and learning in the mornings, followed by relaxing, creative, or explorative activities in the afternoons.
Once a week you’ll be able to delve into the local culture, nature, and environment, which is an amazing way to broaden your experience. These three-week retreats focus on awareness, self-care, and setting healthy boundaries, making it a truly transformative journey. The retreat is conducted in English and is also available in German twice a year.
The Namib Desert: A Sea of Sand
One of the most iconic regions of Namibia is the Namib Desert, home to some of the highest sand dunes in the world. The desert stretches along the Atlantic coast, offering a surreal landscape that seems to go on forever. Sossusvlei, with its towering red dunes, is a must-visit spot for backpackers. Climbing to the top of Dune 45 or Big Daddy provides a panoramic view of the endless sea of sand and the stark white salt pans below.
Getting There: The most convenient way to reach Sossusvlei is by renting a 4x4 vehicle from Windhoek and driving approximately 350 kilometers.
Where to Stay: Desert Quiver Camp, located near Sesriem, offers comfortable self-catering units with stunning views of the desert.
The Enigmatic Skeleton Coast
Further north, the Skeleton Coast presents a stark contrast to the inland deserts. Known for its shipwrecks and dense fog, this coastal area offers a hauntingly beautiful landscape. Backpackers can explore the eerie remains of stranded ships and learn about the region's maritime history. The Skeleton Coast is also a great place to spot seals, dolphins, and even the occasional whale.
Getting There: Fly-in safaris are the most convenient way to access the Skeleton Coast, with charter flights available from Windhoek.
Where to Stay: Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp provides an exclusive and luxurious experience in this remote area.
The Wildlife of Etosha National Park
For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to Etosha National Park is a highlight of any trip to Namibia. This vast reserve is home to a diverse array of animals, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes. Backpackers can embark on self-drive safaris or join guided tours to witness the incredible wildlife up close.
Getting There: Etosha is easily accessible by road from Windhoek, approximately a 5-hour drive.
Where to Stay: Okaukuejo Camp is one of the best places to stay within the park, featuring a waterhole that attracts wildlife throughout the day and night.
The Cultural Tapestry of Namibia
Beyond its natural wonders, Namibia is rich in cultural heritage. The country is home to various ethnic groups, each with its own traditions and way of life. Backpackers can immerse themselves in the culture by visiting local communities and participating in traditional activities.
Getting There: The best way to reach Opuwo is by road from Windhoek, which is about 720 kilometers away.
Where to Stay: The Opuwo Country Hotel is a great base for exploring the Himba villages in the Kunene region.
Adventure in the Kunene Region
The Kunene Region, in the northwest of Namibia, is a haven for adventure seekers. This remote and rugged area is characterized by dramatic landscapes, including the stunning Epupa Falls on the Kunene River. Backpackers can hike in the mountains. They can also kayak down the river. Additionally, they have the option to take a scenic flight for a bird's-eye view of the beautiful landscape.
Getting There: The best way to reach Epupa Falls is by 4x4 vehicle from Opuwo, which takes about 4-5 hours.
Where to Stay: Epupa Camp offers riverside accommodation and guided activities around Epupa Falls.
The Caprivi Strip: A Lush Oasis
In contrast to the arid deserts, the Caprivi Strip in the northeast of Namibia is a lush oasis teeming with life. This narrow strip of land is bordered by four major rivers, creating a verdant landscape rich in biodiversity.
Backpackers can explore several national parks in the region. Some of these parks include Bwabwata and Mudumu. In these parks, visitors can observe hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
Getting There: The Caprivi Strip is best accessed by road from Rundu or Katima Mulilo, both of which are well-connected by major highways.
Where to Stay: Namushasha River Lodge offers comfortable accommodation and river-based activities.
The Charm of Swakopmund
No backpacking trip to Namibia would be complete without a visit to the charming coastal town of Swakopmund. This town, with its German colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene, provides a delightful contrast to the natural landscapes. Backpackers can enjoy a variety of activities, from sandboarding on the nearby dunes to exploring the local markets and galleries.
Getting There: Swakopmund is easily accessible by road from Windhoek, approximately a 4-hour drive, or by domestic flight to Walvis Bay Airport.
Where to Stay: The Swakopmund Sands Hotel offers comfortable accommodation right by the beach.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Namibia
Traveling in Namibia requires careful planning and preparation due to its vast and often remote landscapes. It is essential to carry enough water and supplies, especially when venturing into the desert regions. Renting a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the rugged terrain and reaching more remote areas.
It’s also important to respect local customs and traditions when visiting cultural sites and communities. Finally, travelers should be aware of the weather conditions, as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, particularly in the desert.
Nonetheless, a trip to Namibia will awaken all your senses, emotions, serenity and wonder making you feel like a new kid again. And, after all, isn’t that what a trip is all about?