Traverse Namibia

Highlights

Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert

Stretching the entirety of Namibia’s western shoreline, the Namib is a coastal desert perhaps best known for its Sossusvlei region. Sossusvlei is home to some of the world’s most striking sand dunes, including Big Daddy, Big Mama and Dune 45. Here you’ll find some of Namibia’s most signature experiences including dune treks, quad rides, mountain biking, helicopter safari and hot air balloon rides.

Skeleton Coast

The dramatic juxtaposition of the roaring Atlanic with towering sand dunes is a defining image of the Skeleton Coast. Named for its uncanny ability to sink ships off its mighty shores, this northwestern region of Namibia is unarguably sensational. Its remoteness means the Skeleton Coast can be reached only by small chartered aircraft, thereby guaranteeing all who visit breathtaking aerial views. Activities reflect both sea and land experiences, with beach picnics alongside Cape fur seals and desert game drives. As you head slightly inland toward the Hoanib Valley, prepare to encounter some of the most impressive desert-adapted species imaginable, including lions and elephants. Swakopmund, the gateway to the Skeleton Coast, offers its own range of excursions including boat trips to discover sea mammals and every dune activity imaginable.

Etosha and Damaraland

Southeast of the Hoanib Valley, impressive wildlife become even more prevalent. In addition to elephants, Damaraland also boasts one of Africa’s largest free-ranging populations of endangered desert-adapted black rhino. Rhino tracking on foot and by vehicle in Damaraland’s Palmwag Concession is a thrilling way to explore this highly remote region of the country. Further south lies Etosha National Park, offering game viewing on par with many other southern Africa safari destinations.

Travel Guide

One of the most unique characteristics of Namibia is the possibility of self-drive safari. This affords travelers the chance to explore Namibia on their own terms with greater flexibility and independence yet still maintaining the benefit of highly trained local guides in each lodge along the way. For those with less time, a fly-in safari is ideal, covering the enormous country more rapidly and with breathtaking views along the way. Traditional safari in a game vehicle with driver and guide is also widely available.

Namibia is most easily accessed on direct flights via Johannesburg into either the capital city of Windhoek or coastal Walvis Bay, near Swakopmund. Direct service is increasing between both cities and Cape Town. Lufthansa offers weekly service into Windhoek from Frankfurt. There are also several direct flights weekly between Windhoek and Zimbabwe and Zambia, as well as some land crossings into Botswana.