25 Must Dos in Namibia

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Text Ron Swilling | Main Photograph Paul van Schalkwyk

On 21 March, Namibia celebrated its 25th year of independence. A country with an ever-growing tourist industry and a strong conservation philosophy, it’s also a treasure-trove of sights and attractions. Extraordinarily, the country, flanked in the west by the ancient Namib Desert and in the east by the Kalahari, has two perennial rivers on its northern borders, balancing the arid desert areas with rich and verdant water-worlds.

With a population of just 2.1 million and a vast surface area of 824, 268 square km, Namibia is an unusual blend of fascinating cultures, spectacular and otherworldly landscapes and a network of protected areas with flourishing wildlife populations, which are well protected by an exemplary conservation  ethic enshrined in the country’s constitution. Good infrastructure, well maintained, ensures that travelers experience a journey of comfort and ease. An appealing destination for the introvert and extrovert, the adventurer and romantic, young and old, Namibia will delight and amaze, enthrall and inspire. Come and celebrate with us!

1. CONTEMPLATE ETERNITY AT THE FISH RIVER CANYON

The second largest canyon in the world offers a breathtaking and awe-inspiring glimpse into eternity. This millions-year-old Earth masterpiece has been patiently carved over time by the Fish River’s meandering journey. Explore the viewpoints along the rim to gain different perspectives of the yawning chasms or hike in the canyon depths. A five-day wilderness trail runs southwards from Hobas to Ai-Ais for the fit and self-sufficient hiker and a slack-packing option in the northern reaches provides an alternative for those who enjoy their creature comforts. Make sure you add this one to your bucket list!

2. PADDLE THE ORANGE RIVER

The mighty Orange River, bordering Namibia and South Africa, is a shimmering ribbon of water in an arid and tawny expanse. It is also the place for a great river adventure. Several operators offer fun-filled canoe trips down the river. With only relatively small rapids to be experienced along the journey,these adventures are suitable for the whole family, providing ample excitement and a few bursts of adrenaline.

3. VISIT A QUIVER TREE FOREST

The cork-like trees are synonymous with southern Namibia. Spend sunrise or sunset amongst these special trees that radiate character and charm. Visit the quiver trees at the Quiver Tree Forest Rest-camp or //Garas Campsite near Keetmanshoop.

4. VIEW THE WILD HORSES OF THE NAMIB

Mirroring the wild and rugged spirit of Namibia, the Namib horses survive in the harsh surrounds of the Namib Desert. They can be viewed from the hide overlooking the Garub waterhole near Aus, as they canter in with life-affirming presence and graceful beauty.

5. STROLL THROUGH THE ABANDONED DIAMOND-MINING TOWN OF KOLMANSKOP

When diamonds were discovered at the beginning of the 20th century, diamond towns sprang up in the desert. Stroll through this ghost town on the outskirts of Luderitz, imagining the opulence that once graced the desert. A photographer’s dream, Kolmanskop’s old houses provide dappled light and picturesque sand collages.

6. WALK AND HIKE IN THE EXPANSIVE NAMIB-NAUKLUFT PARK

Short walks for day-trippers and campers run through the attractive Naukluft Mountains, while the more seasoned hiker can enjoy the challenging eight-day Naukluft hiking trail.

7. SAVOUR THE OTHERWORLDLY SOSSUSVLEI

A trip to Sossusvlei is a fantastical journey into a mind-boggling landscape of sensuous sand dunes. Climb Big daddy dune above Sossusvlei for the best views of the pan and its surroundings and wander around the arresting scenery of Deadvlei with its dead camelthorn trees reaching heavenwards from the chalky pan.

8. KAYAK AMONGST THE SEALS AT PELICAN POINT, WALVIS BAY

A bright and light water journey for the whole family in the still waters of the lagoon, the kayak trip is an enjoyable excursion amongst the playful seals.

9. WATCH FLAMINGOS IN THE WALVIS BAY LAGOON

A RAMSAR site and a world-renowned refuge for waterbirds, the Walvis Bay lagoon attracts myriad bird species including lesser and greater flamingos.

10. ENJOY SWAKOPMUND, A SLICE OF OLD GERMANY

The quaint coastal town, sandwiched by desert and sea, has many curio shops in which to discover Namibian trinkets and treasures, and coffee shops to savor German delicacies. It is also the adventure capital of Namibia.

11. TAKE TO THE DUNES OR TO THE SKY

Sand-board down golden dunes, skydive or take a flight over the desert. Invigorating adventures await the young at heart.

12. JOIN A LIVING DESERT TOUR

Believe it or not, there is life in the desert. This delicate ecosystem is home to a plethora of desert-adapted fauna and flora. Be amazed on this eye-opening adventure into the desert.

13. CAMP OUT AT SPITZKOPPE

An alcove of granite rocks en route to Swakopmund, Spitzkoppe is an ideal and rustic overnight stop for those who enjoy the riches of Mother nature. It is also a rock-climber’s paradise. Explore rock arches and caves and watch the granite transform into gold at the end of the day.

14. PAY YOUR RESPECTS AT CAPE CROSS

The windswept promontory of Cape cross, where the intrepid Portuguese explorer, Diogo Cao, planted his padrao (cross) in 1486, became a hive of activity in the late 19th century when guano (a prized fertilizer in Europe) was collected and seal pelts were harvested. Today, it is the Cape Cross seal Reserve, home to a bustling population of Cape fur seals.

15. JOURNEY TO THE WHITE LADY

At 2573 m at its uppermost point, the impressive Brandberg is the highest mountain in Namibia. It also holds a large number of rock paintings, including one of Namibia’s most popular. Initially dubbed the “White Lady” by Henri Breuil in 1955, it is now understood to represent a healer or medicine man holding a bow and arrow in one hand and a cup or wand in the other. The Daureb guides lead visitors on a walk through the rugged environment, speckled with Brandberg Acacias, to the rock overhang where the White Lady can be viewed.

16. MARVEL AT THE TWYFELFONTEIN ENGRAVINGS

At 2000- 6000 years old, the Twyfelfontein engravings are and astounding record of the past, preserved in the rock by Namibia’s arid climate. Once thought to be educational in nature, a record of events or maps of water points, the engravings are now believed to be the communication between the shamans and the gods as they asked for food, protection, luck for the hunt, healing and rain for their people. The area is a cathedral of prayers. Groups of hunter-gatherers gathered in the mountain areas in dry periods, dependent on the water from the trickling spring.

17. SPOT THE DESERT ELEPHANTS

If you are fortunate and your timing is perfect, you may be able to catch a glimpse of these free-roaming desert-adapted elephants that travel along the dry ephemeral riverbeds of the country- from the Huab River northwards. Several lodges offer trips to view these hardy pachyderms.

18. EXPERIENCE ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

Don’t miss this national park in the heart of the country. It is a haven fro wildlife, large and small, which gathers at its waterholes dotted through the park like a string of water pearls. The variety of vegetation, chalky character, plethora of animals and large pan, make this a highly recommended Namibian excursion.

19. TRY SOME NAMIBIAN FARE

Come on, I dare you. Kalahari truffles, mopane worms and the giant termite hill mushrooms (or omajowa) are a few of the delicious delicacies. Mopane worms, a favourite and nutritious dish of the Owambo people, are stored and dried and are re-hydrated and cooked with salt for a tasty dish. After the rains, keep eyes open for sellers along the roadside flaunting their wares. Kalahari truffles appear in the sandy eastern regions of the country after late rains and omajowa are gathered and sold on the road to Swakopmund, near Wilhelmstal, in the early months of the year.

20. VISIT A LIVING MUSEUM

Yes, a living museum. An ingenious concept, living museums are outdoor ‘museums’ where local groups share their culture with visitors, simultaneously reinforcing cultural values and keeping old traditions alive. There are several living museums: The Ju/’Hoansi-San Living Museum at Grashoek en route to Tsumkwe, The Mafwe Living Museum in the Zambezi, The Mbunza Living Museum in the Kavango and the Damara Living Museum near Twyfelfontein.

21. CRUISE ON THE KWANDO RIVER

The water world of the Zambezi is a peaceful celebration of reeds, birds, wildlife and trees. As you weave through waterlilies and cruising crocodiles, you ca hear the chuckling sounds of hippo, witness the spectacular avian display and spot animals on the riverbanks.

22. RELISH THE WEALTH OF WILDLIFE

Bwabwata National Park in the Zambezi region has a wealth of wildlife, including large buffalo and elephant populations. Explore on your own (permits available at the Susuwe ranger station) or join your lodge for a guided excursion. Horseshoe, and oxbow lake in the river, is a popular place to view elephant.

23. MAKE YOUR WAY TO EPUPA FALLS

In the north of the country, Epupa Falls cascades down the craggy cliffs, observed by several small boabab sentries. A grove of makalani palms, a rainbow mist and a true African atmosphere make this an unusual and alluring destination.

24. BE INTRODUCED TO THE HIMBA CULTURE

For those venturing into the northern extremes of the country (& driving 4x4s), Purros is a fascinating desert destination for several reasons: for the chance of seeing the desert elephant in the Hoarusib riverbed, for the desert scenery and to visit the Himba village. The Himba welcome you into their village to reveal their intriguing traditions and beauty rituals.

25. EXPLORE AN OLD AFRICAN PALACE

Former home of King Tatekulu (father) Josia Shikongo Taapopi, the royal Uukwaluudhi residence is an African palace of old, located in Tsandi in the Omusati region. Surrounded by a thick mopane branch palisade it has a series of passageways that separate living, reception and cooking areas. Keep close to your guide or you may just get lost in this interesting labyrinth.

Many happy returns! TNN

 

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This article was first published in the Autumn 2015 issue of Travel News Namibia.

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