Destinations stories – Page 31

November 6, 2024

Wustenquell

Peace, tranquillity, absolute silence and wide-open spaces are becoming increasingly rare commodities. If there is one place in Namibia where you can enjoy all of this, it is Wüstenquell Lodge, which is open to visitors again after it was closed for many years.

November 6, 2024

Why Ruacana Waterfall

Ruacana Waterfall is not a destination that tops the “why you should visit Namibia” click-bait lists. In fact, it rarely even makes the list, if I think about it. Why is this natural wonder, situated on the stretch of the Kunene River downstream toward Swartbooisdrift, so often left off itineraries proposed by travel agents? Le Roux van Schalkwyk explores...

November 6, 2024

Pofadder Cave

If tourists contemplate a visit to Pofadder Cave close to Grootfontein, they should be warned in advance: anyone who is afraid of the dark or has an crippling fear of confined spaces should think twice before they venture into the second largest cave in Namibia. Some prior experience of abseiling is also recommended. Luckily, although it is a very shallow cave, I realised from the outset that it would be wise to film the cave with the guidance of experts: entomologist and spelaeologist John Irish and geologist Nico Scholtz were great choices both in terms of expertise and guidance.

November 7, 2024

The land before time: Desert Rhino Camp

Explore the vast, rugged beauty of Damaraland at Desert Rhino Camp, where ancient landscapes meet conservation efforts to protect the last free-roaming desert-adapted black rhinos. Experience the camp's meticulous design and comfort, guided by expert trackers through an untouched wilderness. Journey into a timeless land where rare wildlife and local communities converge, celebrating a deep connection with nature that resonates across generations.

November 7, 2024

The Spirit of the Dragon and this thing called life: Dragon’s Breath

While Namibia is best known for its wide-open spaces, the country is also a paradise for cavers who explore its darkest depths, especially the ones that some adventurers find irresistible. Even the well- known Otjikoto Lake near Tsumeb is nothing but a large cave with a missing roof.

November 8, 2024

The future of eco-entrepreneurship is female

Those who often venture across Namibia’s varied landscapes will agree that roadside stalls selling curios are predominantly run by women. From a distance you can see the colourful dresses of Herero women as they wave at passers-by. Himba women in their striking traditional attire employ the same income-generating strategy of selling crafts, and so do the Damara and Nama ladies with their bright smiles. Namibian women are the backbone of our artisanal crafts industry, and yet when it comes to locally run accommodation ventures, only seldom do you see a woman in the lead role.

November 8, 2024

Desert Reverie

This is a magical land – the colours, the softness of the dunes and the almost ethereal backdrop that appears to be painted on the horizon for dramatic effect. It is exquisite, and it seems unreal. There is so much to marvel at that one’s worries seem to melt away in the sunlight. What once seemed insurmountable now seems petty, and you find yourself zoning out at the sight of space and beauty all around.

November 8, 2024

Stop, snap and share

Join the citizen science initiative in Etosha National Park! Help researchers protect cheetahs and leopards by snapping and sharing your sightings of these iconic predators. Led by the Greater Etosha Carnivore Programme, this survey invites visitors to contribute photographs that will be analyzed using AI for individual identification, helping establish crucial population estimates. With each submission, citizen scientists aid in wildlife conservation and stand a chance to win a luxury stay at Ongava Game Reserve. Dive into this unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Namibia’s wildlife conservation efforts!