March 16, 2022

Park of the People: The brilliant and bold Bwabwata

The car is packed, the rooftop tent strapped and you bought more snacks than you should have for the nine or so hour drive to Bwabwata National Park from Windhoek. It’s a long haul north, but now you have hit the sharp right turn, leaving Rundu in your rearview mirror. Each tree is starting to look greener than the one before as you cruise alongside the Okavango River, keeping a keen eye open for the entrance to your accommodation.
March 20, 2022

Breaking the elusive 100

It is a typical November day in Lüderitz. The wind is howling. The type of wind where on the B4 you have to dodge the tiny dunes blown onto the tarmac, or when you dare to get out of your vehicle, better be sure to have a good grip on the door handle. Needless to say, in this weather any sane person stays safely indoors and only ventures outside if it is really necessary. Yet, for a handful of speed windsurfers from around the world, gathered just south of the town at Second Lagoon, these conditions are perfect. High winds have helped to break the 50 knot (92.6 km/h) barrier and present the potential to break the elusive record of 100 km/h or just under 54 knots.
June 1, 2022

Birding in Lüderitz

I wonder if any of those pioneers in the early 1900s ever saw Barlow’s Lark (Calendulauda barlowi) at Pomona, or the Dune Lark (C. erythrochlamys) in the dunes near Lüderitz? Looking at the barren ‘killing fields’ those diamond hunters left behind as memories for later generations, I doubt it very much. I suppose the diamond’s blinding effect on your eyes has the same effect on your mind. In the end, it’s the larks that are still around, and not those diamond hunters.
June 29, 2022

Unlocking TSAU //KHAEB

What enticed men to leave their homes in Europe for a far-off German colony on the African Continent to dig through burning gravel under the relentless sun of the Namib Desert for a gemstone made of carbon arranged in a crystal structure? Many romantic stories are told citing various reasons, but in actual fact these men were motivated by one thing alone – greed.
September 1, 2022

Three adventures to embark on in the Zambezi Region

Whenever explaining travels, destinations, and the roads leading to adventure in Namibia, my right hand comes out. Palm facing down, index finger folded and thumb stretched out, the back of my hand instantly becomes a map. The shape of Namibia can be indicated with a single hand, and the Zambezi region is the thumb. No coincidence then that this corner of the land, often overlooked or left off visitor itineraries for being so far- flung, can be summarised by “an indication of satisfaction or approval” (a.k.a. “thumbs up”).
September 1, 2022

RMB RIDE FOR RHINOS: Eight years of cycling for conservation

The RMB Ride for Rhinos is an annual cycling event aimed at creating awareness of the tireless yet determined combined patrols done by Save the Rhino (SRT) trackers, rhino rangers (members of the local communities) and members of the Namibian Police. The event not only gives riders a tiny taste of the hardships endured by these individuals but it is also a means of raising funds for the ongoing conservation efforts by SRT. Le Roux van Schalkwyk goes along on the adventure.
December 8, 2022

The Real Magic Kingdom

Embarking on the adventure of raising a tiny human opens up a world of awe and wonder. Join the journey as this author compares the experience to the breathtaking landscapes of Namibia. Discover the humbling moments, the unique perspectives of tiny humans, and the joy of fostering curiosity. Explore how Namibia's beauty and diversity become a backdrop for raising children and igniting a sense of wonder.
December 8, 2022

On the turf of sailors, surfers and anglers

Discover the allure of the Namibian coast's middle section for your perfect holiday getaway. Relive cherished memories of festive seasons spent in the quaint town of Henties Bay, embraced by scenic drives and misty horizons. Embark on a nostalgic journey down memory lane as you explore the enchanting landscapes and endless holiday bliss.
March 3, 2023

Delighting in Desert Rains​

Abundant rains have fallen in the desert. Words that send every Namibian into a frenzy of excitement. Some will savour the photos taken of this phenomenon, while others will want to see this rare occurrence for themselves by packing their cars and heading out to the desert. This year, I’m one of the latter.
March 7, 2023

Checklist: Namib-Naukluft National Park

Wildlife Delight: Your Comprehensive Checklist for Namib-Naukluft National Park's Birds, Mammals, Reptiles, Insects, and Scorpions. Uncover the park's rich biodiversity, must-see species, and best viewing areas. Prepare for an extraordinary safari experience amidst stunning desert landscapes.