Touring Namibia: Experiencing the desert, wildlife, coastal shores and hiking the Fish River Canyon all in one

Imagine the sun setting her orange rays over waves of desert dunes, reflecting imaginative images on the horizon with a naked tree silhouetting on the deserted landscapes and unpolluted skies. That is Namibia in a nutshell. It is an African country dressed in untouched beauty, stretched out landscapes, bushveld and National Parks teeming with wildlife. Namibia is one safari destination that should not be missed; a place where your soul can find rest in the freedom of wide open spaces and blue, unpolluted skies.

If you are planning a safari or tour to Namibia, South Africa, it is advisable to come during South Africa’s winter months, which is between May and October. The desert characteristics of Namibia create a scorging heat in summer months, making travelling very challenging and tiresome. However, if you prefer experiencing Namibia in the summer it is a great time to escape the cold European winters and there are much less tourist activity than in the winter months.

Namibia is a prime tourist destination and offers you the opportunity to experience the desert, the sea, a diverse wildlife and birdlife and breathtaking sceneries. Below are listed some of the top tourist attractions that you would not like to miss when touring to Namibia.

Sossusvlei

The 32 000 km Sossusvlei is situated in the largest conservation area in Africa, Namib Naukluft Park, the fourth largest in the world. The renowned Sossusvlei displays 300 metres high sand dunes (the highest in the world), dried-up lake beds and are surrounded by towering mountains of sand. Sossusvlei are a popular tourist attraction for hiking the world’s largest, brightly coloured dunes and to obtain that true desert experience.

Etosha National Park

Etosha, meaning ‘great white place’, the Etosha National Park is dominated by a massive silvery-white hollow pan surrounded by grasslands and bush. It is one of South Africa’s most finest and important Game Reserves. The area is home to various wildlife such as Black and White rhinos, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs and giraffes etc. It is a beautiful sighting to see the congregate of wildlife at waterholes during the drier seasons. The Etosha Pan also attracts flocks of flamingos, pelicans and excellent birdlife.

Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world, formed by the Fish River flowing through an arid environment over millions of years. Its fantastic views, desolate landscapes, enticing hills and chasms make it a famed hiking destination of 86 km long, completed over five days. No facilities are provided and the hiker has to carry everything himself making it a real adventure. The hiking trail is open from May to 31 August. After completing this challenging hike, you can go for some hot spring muscle therapy at Ais-Ais.

Skeleton Coast

This spooky desert shore and desolate coastline of the Skeleton Coast Park, characterised by massive sand dunes and treacherous rocks, claimed to have taken many ships throughout the centuries. Rumours have it that sailors walked for miles on end on the Skeleton Coast, looking for food and water, only to perish in this hostile desert coastline. A fly-in safari or scenic flight is the best way to view the ghostly shipwrecks. Cape Cross at Skeleton Coast is also habitat to thousands of seals. The Skeleton coast creates the perfect scenery for photographic exploration.