Tourism in Namibia: Travel tips and best places to visit
Best tourist activities, cultural tips, and best Namibian foods to try
TOURISM IN NAMIBIA
Namibia has 26 parks and nature reserves, the most notable of which is the Aitosha National Park. Namibia is known for its vast desert, which converges with the ocean coast at its far end and surrounds it. Namibia is a fascinating tourist destination in Africa because of its vast desert, which meets the ocean coast at its far end. Granite peaks, beaches, islands, and natural waterfalls abound.
Historic tourism is also available in Namibia, including visits to monuments and museums that showcase the country’s treasures from antiquity, including works of art of every kind. Don’t forget about Namibian festivals like Christmas Day, Independence Day, and the New Year, which are all well-observed. With traditional dances set to the beat of the country’s distinctive music, you will have a memorable vacation in an exciting new location.
The best seasons of travel to Namibia
Depending on the region, temperatures in Namibia range from 15 to 40 degrees Celsius in the summer and 10 to 25 degrees Celsius in the winter. The best months to visit Namibia are March to October, when the weather is mild, and to avoid travelling in the fennara from December to February. The following is a calendar listing the twelve months of the year.
The rainy summer season lasts from November to April, during which time you can take part in various festivals like the Windhoek Carnival and Namibia’s Independence Day.
In the months of May to October, the weather is dry enough to take advantage of the Marrero and Costa Day Festivals, Oktoberfest, safari tours, and other activities such as visits to tourist attractions and national parks.
How long I can stay in Namibia
A valid passport is required for obtaining an entry visa to Chad. Citizens of Arab countries can obtain visas through the normal channels by visiting any diplomatic entity linked to Namibia, such as an embassy or consulate in their home country. Chad is open to visitors from all countries. Namibia is a dream destination for many people, and a visa to Namibia allows you to stay for 90 days.
Tourism in Windhoek, Namibia
Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek, is perched on top of the central highlands. There is the Independence Memorial Museum, which is housed in the former military headquarters known as the Alte Veste, located on a hill in the city’s centre, as well as the Heroes’ Monument, which commemorates the heroes of Namibia’s War of Independence in 1990 AD and bears clear colonial imprints. The Lutheran Christos Stone Church and Parliament Gardens, the Namibian government’s seat of power, are both within walking distance of each other.
Located directly west of the wonderful zoo is the Post Street Mall shopping centre. Other attractions in this area include the Oila Museum of Natural History, The National Art Gallery of Namibia, The Trans-Namibian Museum that exhibits transportation and railway history, as well as the markets of Katutura, a culturally diverse suburb in the city’s west. Kudu and rope zebras live in the nearby Dan Viljoen Nature Reserve, as do a wide variety of birds.
Namibia and Windhoek sightseeing takes about three days.
Tourism in Swakopmund, Namibia
Namibia’s most popular tourist attractions include the Swakopmund Lighthouse, which is adjacent to the historic Molle Sea Wall, the Swakopmund Museum, which depicts Namibia’s internal history, and a railway museum housed in a colonial-era building.
To the north, the Jetty Bridge offers views of Palm Beach’s golden sands and the Gulf of Bird Island is a haven for flamingos and cormorants. In the vast Namibian desert, adventure sports like sand boarding and rock climbing can be found in Namib Nauchloft National Park. The park also has the red dunes and the Gratin Mountains to enjoy.
Swakwimond Namibia can be seen in two days if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing.
Tourism in the city of Walvis Bay, Namibia
With its intertidal lake home to a variety of bird life, such as pelicans, artichokes and damara, and the Atlantic waters surrounding the Pelican Lighthouse in the eastern Gulf serving as a breeding ground for dolphins and whales, Walvis Bay is a port city on Namibia’s coast. It is from here that the Namib Desert officially begins.
Deserts and sand dunes are two characteristics of this region. The Kaysp River deltas serve as a starting point for outdoor activities like skiing and oyster farming, both of which can be observed while paddling or kayaking on the river. Off-road sand roads take you to Lake Harbor in the south, and Manip Naucloft National Park in the east. In the north, beaches like the Lang Strand, Sarah Seagate rock locations, and Bird Rock, where millions of birds congregate, are surrounded by migratory wading birds.
Walvis Bay, Namibia can be seen in two days if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing.
Tourism in the city of Luderitz, Namibia
A few of Namibia’s most notable cities include the Jork House, perched on Diamond Hill’s rocky face, the Felsinkirchy Church, overlooking the bay and extending around Robert Port, and the Luderitz Museum. It is a diamond-mining city with a rich natural and historical heritage.
Dias Cross Memorial in the city’s west end. Boats go to Halifax Island, home to cormorants and African penguins, as well as pelicans on the rugged Shark Peninsula, where you can go windsurfing or skiing.
It takes two days to see everything Namibia has to offer.
Best tourist attractions in Namibia
Namibia is a popular tourist destination because of the stunning scenery and wide range of exciting things to do. In Namibia you’ll have an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. As a result, you’ll be able to take advantage of seeing a variety of extraordinary natural attractions that are found nowhere else on the planet. Despite the fact that Namibia is home to a large number of must-see tourist attractions, this post will only cover the top ten.
1- Sossusvlei Desert
For those fortunate enough to be in the Susuvili Desert during the day, you’ll see it bathed in sunlight and blanketed in trees. The view is breathtaking as the white sands blend seamlessly with the blue sky above. For a breathtaking view of the dunes stretching out to infinity, a hike across Namibia’s Susuvili Desert and a climb up the Big Daddy, the world’s tallest, are a must-do. To take in the breathtaking views from above, consider taking an exhilarating hot air balloon ride.
2- Etosha National Park
The vast majority of tourists come to Namibia to see the fabled African creatures they’ve only ever seen on screen. Itosha National Park is one of Africa’s largest natural reserves and a great place to go on a safari. About 114 different kinds of mammals can be found in the park, such as elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinoceroses, spotted and black hyenas, and zebras, as well as other animals like antelopes and caracals.
A significant number of these are raptors. There are 340 different bird species. Spectacular daily wildlife gatherings occur at the marsh’s distinctive natural ponds, which are frequented by a wide range of birds and animals. The reserve has a number of options for visitors, such as private parks on the reserve’s outskirts, safaris with tour operators, and just relaxing while the animals drink from the waterholes. Associated content
3- Skeleton Coast
There are many unique activities to experience in Swakopmund, making it a great tourist destination located between the Sossovle Desert and the Itosha National Park. Swakopmund is a great starting point for exploring the skeleton coast, a fog-covered shoreline where sand dunes meet the sea. Desert excursions, boats, and other thrilling and adventurous activities like desert rides, paragliding, and sand skiing are available for tourists. You will have an unforgettable experience in the middle of nature unlike anything else if you go to this amazing location.
4- Damaraland
Elephants, rhinos, lions, zebras, and antelopes all live in Damaraland, which is near Itosha Road on Namibia’s skeleton coast side. Damaraland is distinguished by its rocky mountains and grassy plains. Beautiful colours blend seamlessly with the sky’s blue to create an unforgettable spectacle in this breathtaking location.
5- Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls can easily be reached on foot from the Caprivi district (across the Chobe Game Reserve, in northern Botswana). Victoria Falls is a well-known natural wonder in the world. Victoria Falls is a 1 mile wide and 100 metre high cliff that will take your breath away when you see it for the first time. The Zambezi River receives 90 million litres of water per minute from these massive waterfalls. You’ll be amazed by the water’s rumbling sound, but you’ll also be treated to a stunning view of the waterfalls from the nearby rainforest when you do. Furthermore, if you go to the waterfalls in April, the waterfalls’ water spray will completely soak your clothes.
There are also many interesting activities, so you can take a cruise during sunset in the calm sea that pours into the waterfalls. You can also enjoy an exciting adventure while riding a raft on the white water page or take a fun safari in Zambezi National Park on the Zimbabwean side or Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on the Zambian side.
6- Namib-Naukluft Park
With an area of 50,000 km, Namib Nokloft Park starts from a plateau in central Namibia and then extends down into the vast Namib Desert, which was a sea 20 million years ago. Namib Nokloft Park is a picturesque tourist destination, thanks to the vast open spaces surrounded by the blue and purple mountains that are breathtaking when the rays of the sun fall on them at sunset. This area is characterized by complete tranquility, the only sound you will hear is the sound of the gentle breeze, and you will feel as if time has stopped to go back to the past and discover an amazing experience in the ancient Stone Age, and the experience will be completed when you know that there are dinosaur footprints that have been discovered in Namibia.
7- Caprivi
The Caprivi region is a beautiful destination that looks like a miniature version of Botswana, as it is located in the same flood plains, through which the same rivers flow and are crossed by the same animal herds during the migration seasons. In the Caprivi region, tourists will discover an amazing experience in the wilderness, with huge rivers that flow throughout the year, vast floodplains and African forests that embody real images from your imaginations of African forests that you saw in the movies. You will greatly enjoy the picturesque views, see the diverse wildlife and birds, as well as spend enjoyable times in the atmosphere full of tranquility and luxury in the safari lodge.
8- Kalahari Desert Kalahari
The Kalahari Desert is an ideal destination for lovers of beauty and tranquility, as red sand dunes mingle with golden grass rolling under the clear blue sky. The Kalahari Desert is the home of the Bushmen who live by gathering fruits and hunting animals. It is also teeming with images of various wildlife, including lions, antelopes and meerkats. And no fun experience would be complete without eating delicious venison steak.
9- Fish River Canyon
The Fish River Valley is distinguished by its vast area, as it is a sprawling valley located on the edge of a flat land formed by rivers that flowed millions of years ago. The rocky plains are spread by trees and cacti, and the whole place reigns supreme, making you live a wonderful experience in the embrace of pristine nature away from the noise.
10- Kaokoland Kaokoland
Caucaland is distinguished by its remote location and difficult access, and it is the least explored destination in Namibia, which is one of the least populated countries on Earth. And spread in the region huge mountain ranges that are difficult to cross, but contain different images of wildlife, as well as picturesque views. Caucholand is the home of the Himba tribes who live in perfect harmony with nature. This area is an ideal destination for safari and camping, but it is preferable to enjoy these exciting experiences in groups and the use of 4×4 vehicles.
Ten useful tips when traveling to Namibia
If you are looking to discover different experiences, then Namibia is your ideal destination because it is unlike anywhere else on earth, rather it sometimes looks like a different planet. It is assumed that no list of travel destinations is devoid of the country of Namibia, which includes vast open spaces filled with sand dunes, plains and pictures of various African wildlife. Tourists can visit Namibia at any time of the year. Here are some helpful tips when traveling to Namibia.
1- The level of safety in Namibia
Namibia is one of the safest countries in Africa. You don’t need to worry about car crashes when traveling on the roads in Namibia, the locals are friendly and welcoming, and they will help you right away.
2- Use a strong car
There is no need to use elegant sports cars, and it is preferable to use powerful four-wheel drive cars when moving within Namibia, as roads vary widely and you need a car suitable for all conditions and terrain. And make sure you have one or two spare tires, as well as an emergency kit, you may need to change a car tire or make some other small repairs. And make sure that you have sufficient experience in such matters. And don’t forget to bring a first aid kit, and have a strong internet connection.
3- Get ready for fun and entertainment your way
Namibia is characterized by its vast area, its area is twice the size of Germany or the state of California, yet it has a population of only 2 million people. Namibia is one of the least populated countries on Earth. Often times, you will find yourself alone in the arms of unspoiled nature. So, be sure to plan your trip well, and don’t forget to bring your own entertainment and other essentials that you can’t do without.
4- Take all your essentials with you
The vast expanse of Namibia is what makes it unparalleled beauty. However, these vast areas make it difficult to have an adequate number of stores to meet the needs of tourists. So, make sure to prepare a list of all your essentials that you will need during the flight. The weather in Namibia is also very volatile, sometimes the temperature rises to 90 degrees, and other times it may drop below thirty degrees on the same day. So, be prepared to face these changing circumstances. And don’t forget that you are traveling through the desert and you’ll need sunscreen, sunglasses, moisturizing cream, and lip balm.
5- Watch the road well while driving
In remote areas, there are many animals that are not used to the movement of cars, so they may suddenly rush in front of the car while it is traveling. The animals are usually active during sunrise and sunset. You may need a companion to sit next to you and watch both sides of the road.
6- Get ready for off-road driving
There are some of the most important tourist attractions in Namibia that are located in remote areas, so sometimes you will have to drive on rough roads away from the highways. And when you look at a map of Namibia, you will find a letter (D) or (C) in front of some roads, to indicate that they are dirt or bumpy roads. So, stick to driving slowly on these roads!
7- Fill your car with fuel
When you drive on highways, you will find many gas stations. In remote areas, however, such stations are rare. There are maps showing the whereabouts of the petrol stations. But be sure to make sure these maps are up to date so that you can easily find gas stations. Gasoline costs about 95 cents per liter, or roughly $ 3.55 per gallon. And some gas stations deal with cash only. And when you see a gas station, do not forget to refuel in case.
8- Don’t forget the money
ATMs are not easy to find in Namibia, and most transactions are done with cash. The official currency in the country is the Namibian dollar. One US dollar is equivalent to about 12.75 Namibian dollars.
9- Slow down in driving the car
Be sure to drive slowly in Namibia, especially on rough roads, and in places where animals are abundant, so that you do not have an accident. And don’t forget that speeding fines are very steep. It is common for the car to slip on gravel, so do not exceed the speed limit.
10- Use the maps to find your way
Do not rely too much on the phone for positioning and directions, but you can use a GPS device, as it is the best option for this purpose. You can also use traditional paper maps, which contain minute details of all places and roads in Namibia.
Namibia is a large country with many indispensable attractions to visit. It is best to dedicate a whole week to discover the most important landmarks of Namibia. Here are some helpful suggestions for enjoying a visit to Namibia:
- (3 days) Travel from Windhoek or Walvis Bay to the Susuvle Desert via Solitaire to enjoy a wonderful experience amidst stunning sand dunes.
- (3 days) Drive north from Windhoek to Okahandja, Otjiwarongo and Outjo to enjoy safari trips across Otosha National Park.
- (6 days) Drive from Windhoek to Utocha National Park and return to Windhoek before heading to the Namib Desert to explore the sand dunes.
- (10 days) Depart from Windhoek to visit Waterberg Plateau, Damaraland, Swakopmund and the Saussovle Desert, then return to Windhoek.
The most popular food to try when visiting Namibia
Here is a list of the most popular favorites in Namibia.
1- Wild Game dish
This dish is sliced of meat from wild animals, including antelope, deer, ostriches, giraffes, zebras and crocodiles. This product is available in all restaurants in Namibia, but it is best to eat it in the jungle while on safari. Steaks are usually grilled, and can also be used to prepare sausages, stews and shish kebabs.
2- Biltong meat
Bitlong is dried meat, which is distinguished by its delicious taste and delicious aroma. This food can be traced back to South Africa, but it is now considered one of the most popular snacks in Namibia. Beetlung is prepared from beef, and deer, noe and ostrich meat can also be used. The people of Namibia are proud that they produce the best types of biltong in Africa, as they depend on the meat of young cattle with the addition of a selection of natural spices and vinegar, and then they are dried in the air.
3- Potjiekos
Potjikos is a stew of meat and vegetables prepared in a cast iron pot and kept on a stove for 3 or 4 hours. This dish is inspired by Dutch cuisine, and its origins go back to the seventeenth century. One of the main ingredients in this delicious dish is alcohol, as beer or wine is used to add flavor.
4- Kapana & Fat Cakes
Served as a street food item, this delicious snack is a mixture of grilled marinated meats, vegetables and chili peppers with creamy buns. The cakes are prepared using sunflower oil, yeast and flour. It’s a Namibian snack that, despite its simplicity, is delicious and irresistible.
5- Mopane Worms larvae
Popular in rural South Africa, this meal is a local favorite among the locals in northern Namibia. The larvae can be dried and served as a crunchy snack or cooked in a stew like Potijkos. It can also be seasoned and fried.
Namibia’s best luxury hotels and resorts
Here is a list of 10 luxury accommodation options in Namibia.
1- Kulala Desert Lodge
The Kulala Desert Lodge is one of the preferred accommodation options for tourists wishing to visit the sand dunes in the Sossusovle Desert, one of the most important tourist attractions in Namibia, which includes the highest sand dunes in the world. The lodge has a great location amidst sand dunes, and includes 23 chalets, each of which has rooftop sleeping areas. It is the closest point to reach the sand dunes in the Susufli Desert.
2- Little Ongava Hotel
The Little Ungava Hotel is located close to the Usha National Park and offers a high level of luxury and privacy. The hotel is located on a high hill within the Ongava Game Reserve, and offers great views of the plains of Namibia. There are wooden paths over the rocks and trees to lead to the main foyer and dining area. The hotel has 3 secluded and cozy cottages, each with a fireplace, living room, private terrace and open-view swimming pool. In this hotel, you will enjoy luxurious accommodation and see the unspoiled nature around you.
3- Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
The Sossusovli Desert Lodge is an ideal tranquil getaway surrounded by mountains and sand dunes in the Namib Desert. The hotel offers its visitors a calm atmosphere full of luxury and romance. Hotel-goers can enjoy spending the most wonderful times in the open air under the starry sky, take picnics in the picturesque nature, or ride a hot air balloon and enjoy stunning views of the Sosrosophle Desert and the Sesriem Canyon. The hotel enjoys a great location in the heart of the Namib Desert, with views of sand dunes and rocky outcrops. Staying at this hotel is an unparalleled experience amidst the vast expanses, rugged mountains and soaring peaks.
4- Little Kulala Hotel
This luxurious desert hotel is located in a 67,000-hectare nature reserve. It features 11 air-conditioned chalets, each with a bed that offers a view of the stars while you sleep, a private swimming pool and glass walls to enjoy the stunning landscape. The chalets are distinguished by their elegant designs and soft colors, in addition to natural lighting.
5- Hoanib Skeleton Camp (Western Namibia)
This camp is located in a remote and rugged valley where two tributaries of the Dry Hoanib River meet. The camp is in a great location near the Palmwag and the Skeleton Coast National Park in the Kaokoveld region. The camp includes seven large tents and a family unit, each with an elegant bedroom, an indoor bathroom and an outdoor terrace. The camp overlooks the rugged hills and provides its guests with an exceptional stay full of luxury, in addition to stunning views of the charming nature. The camp can be accessed by small plane, so you will enjoy unparalleled beautiful views upon arrival and departure.
6- Serra Cafema Camp
This camp is located in the far northwest of Namibia, on the banks of the Kunene River, surrounded by trees. Generally speaking, this camp is characterized by an atmosphere that is inspired by the Himba tribes, but which mixes country style with modern luxury. The camp includes 8 elegant wooden villas located on the banks of the river, offering unparalleled stunning views of the desert and the river. There are indoor and outdoor dining areas, a library and a swimming pool.
7- Wolwedans Private Camp
Want to explore an Old West-inspired experience? In this campsite, you will wake up to the violet mountains and soft yellow grassy plains. There are no homes, cities, or manifestations of modern civilization in the region. You will enjoy a very comfortable stay in an atmosphere of privacy. The accommodation includes a living room, dining area or kitchen and terrace. The camp offers stunning views of the vast surrounding areas.
8- Onguma The Fort
The castle is an unparalleled luxury accommodation option in Namibia, where you can spend some great times as if you were one of the Kings of Africa. The castle is distinguished by its great location, overlooking Etosha Pan. The castle has massive stone-covered walls, as well as a tall tower that offers views of Fisher’s Pan. The castle is distinguished by its African character, with touches of Moroccan and Indian culture. The castle has antique windows and doors.
9- Desert Rhino Camp
Desert Raino Camp is located in the rocky hills of the Palmwag Concession, which has an area of 450,000 hectares. This area is characterized by quiet and unpretentious beauty, where there is the largest concentration of black rhinos in Africa. The campground features 8 canvas tents with front verandas overlooking plants, trees and the Etendeka Mountains. This luxurious campground features a comfortable dining area, a luxurious lounge and a swimming pool. The camp offers panoramic views of the surrounding environment, as well as delicious meals served outdoors under the starry sky.
10- Xaus Lodge Hotel
The word Xaus means heart in Nama. And in this wonderful hotel run by members of the Bushmen tribe, you will discover an exceptional experience with sustainable ecotourism. The hotel overlooks a large heart-shaped salt marsh. You can discover life in the Kalahari desert, take guided sand dune trips, and buy handmade products from the Bushmen villages. The accommodation includes a spacious living room, and there is also a foyer with a fireplace. This, in addition to an observation deck and a swimming pool.
Read also: All you need to know about tourism in Angola
Sources:
- https://namibia-tours-safaris.com
- https://theblondeabroad.com
- https://www.imaginetravel.com
- https://giltedgeafrica.com
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