December 2, 2024

Friends gone fishin’

On a fishing expedition to Meob Bay along Namibia’s southern coastline, Theuns Laubscher and a group of friends discovered the wonders of the vast Namib Sand Sea, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site. Led by concession guides through the ancient sands and along the skeleton-strewn coast, the group discovered the delicate balance of catch-and-release angling, the thrill of off-road convoys, and the unfiltered camaraderie forged around campfires under an endless sky. This story is not just about fishing; it is about adventure, resilience and the quiet marvels of the Namib, and that magical place where the desert meets the sea.
December 2, 2024

Ongava for the Photographer

Ongava is one of Namibia’s premier retreats, seamlessly blending luxury and comfort with spectacular wildlife sightings set against the natural beauty of the reserve. Situated adjacent to Etosha National Park, the extensive wildlife found here also makes it the ideal getaway for photographers. With animals ranging from rhinos, elephants and lions to smaller game and a colourful assortment of birdlife, it offers both seasoned camera enthusiasts and casual smartphone users the opportunity to capture stunning shots of Africa’s wildlife against rugged landscapes.
December 2, 2024

Taking the scenic route

What touches your soul? What intrigues you? What allows you to unleash the spirit of adventure? Taking a moment to savour the things you love is one of the greatest pleasures of a self-drive exploration adventure. Every road you travel is filled with surprises – captivating people, fascinating stories and intriguing places just waiting to be discovered. This was Kirsty Watermeyer's experience while travelling through southern Namibia.
December 2, 2024

Guardians of the Green

In order to promote awareness of trees in Namibia, Luise Hoffmann, chair of the Botanical Society of Namibia (Botsoc) at the time, initiated an annual Tree Award in 2007. The aim of the award is to recognise individuals, companies and organisations that have made a special effort to save and protect Namibia’s indigenous trees or to plant trees and create awareness about Namibia's indigenous flora. Each year, we call for nominations from the public for worthy recipients. People from all over Namibia are encouraged to nominate deserving candidates. The committee assesses each nomination, and awards are presented at a ceremony held at the National Botanical Research Institute.
December 4, 2024

Reviving Kolmanskop

The creak of near-century-old wood floors gives way, one careful foot in front of the other. By impulse, voices are brought to a whisper. A relentless wind sandblasts what is left of the windows as another grain of sand finds its way to the corner of an abandoned house, joining the dune that occupies an old living room. Between silent observation and the occasional outburst of awe, the sounds of these haunted, empty halls are only a whistle formed by the wind. Or is it a ghost?
December 20, 2024

Tuxedoed treasures

There is a crisis unfolding in Namibian waters. The quintessentially cute African Penguin is facing imminent threat of extinction. This matters, not only because these adorable black and white waddling creatures are an emblem of African waters, but also because they fulfil a role in the ecosystem. Like with a Jenga tower, removing blocks risks the stability of the entire structure.
December 20, 2024

Savouring Luderitz – Luderitz Nest Hotel

We recently had the privilege of staying at the Lüderitz Nest Hotel, a charming 4-star haven perched along the stunning coastline of Lüderitz, Namibia. Its prime location offers breathtaking ocean views right from your balcony, giving you the full sights and sounds of the sea. Having recently undergone a major renovation, the hotel beautifully combines modern comforts with a touch of timeless elegance, making it the perfect base from which to explore the beauty of Lüderitz. Within its walls, we discovered not one, but two exceptional dining experiences: the Penguin Restaurant and the Crayfish Bar & Lounge, both of which left a lasting impression.
December 20, 2024

The Etosha Pan

The Etosha pan is a large endorheic basin, covering an area of approximately 4760 km2 and stretching some 120km from east to west and 55km north to south. This area is so vast that it is visible from space. Most visitors and tourists to Namibia’s flagship park are greeted with stunning sights of the vast, shimmering expanse of the pan as they navigate their way along scenic routes. Every now and again, specks of wildlife can be seen in the distance, traversing parts of the pan, leaving one pondering the fact as to what could possibly draw them to such a seemingly barren, desolate wasteland.
December 21, 2024

Cymot store

I walk through aisle upon aisle. Overhead, a lofty modern ceiling stretches far above, giving the space an airy, almost cathedral-like feel. The store is massive. So much so that I wonder, half-jokingly, if I’ll ever find my way out. There’s a comforting sense of familiarity here, though. Like walking through the halls of a place that has quietly been a part of your life for as long as you can remember. Greensport tents, Scott bicycles, rows of tools that could fix just about anything, and Jonsson's clothing that has seen many of us through countless adventures in the Namibian wilderness.
December 21, 2024

Swakopmund Fat Bike Tours

If you’re visiting Swakopmund, Namibia’s coastal gem, and looking for a unique way to explore the region, Swakopmund Fat Bike Tours offers an unforgettable experience. Having recently gone on their "Up-close Living Desert Tour", I can say with confidence that their tours perfectly blend adventure, eco- consciousness, and exploration. This 3.5-hour journey, taken on a fat bike, allows you to discover the hidden beauty and biodiversity of the oldest desert in the world— an adventure I found both enlightening and exciting.
December 21, 2024

Cornerstone Guesthouse

Swakopmund, Namibia’s coastal jewel, is known for its beautiful blend of history, adventure and natural beauty. It is also home to the much-loved Cornerstone Guesthouse – a small, private bed and breakfast which offers a peaceful retreat with a central location. In March of last year, seasoned tour guides Hobby and Steffi Kreiner took over this iconic property, bringing their own personal touch and years of experience in the tourism industry to the guesthouse.
December 21, 2024

The Stonemen

Flint and friends in Kaokoland is a spellbinding journey into the heart of Namibia’s remote and mystical Kaokoland, where the lines between reality and legend blur against the backdrop of vast desert landscapes. Authored by Ron Swilling, who skillfully narrates the story as told to her, this book delves into the adventures of Flint Firestone as he navigates through the wilds of Kaokoland, meeting an array of mysterious stone figures – each with their own story to tell. The creator of these enigmatic Stonemen remains anonymous, adding an extra layer of mystery to this compelling narrative.
December 21, 2024

Oceans of Insight – museum

Anchors, propellers, masts, winches and an artistic sundial are arranged to create an outdoor walkway that marks the beginning of your journey through time and all things maritime. As we step into the newly opened Maritime Museum in Lüderitz, we are about to explore a rich and fascinating past. This world-class tourist attraction celebrates the town’s seafaring heritage and its deep connection to the ocean. Having visited maritime museums around the globe, I can confidently say that this one is as captivating as its international counterparts. Housed within the restored historic Lüderitz Old Power Station on Dias Street, the museum spans five floors, taking visitors back in time while also highlighting contemporary interactions with the ocean.