The end of a drought era? Namibia celebrates the rain

The end of a drought era?

Namibia celebrates the rain

Photographs Elzanne McCulloch & Le Roux van Schalkwyk

From the Autumn 2021 issue

With the exceptional rain most of Namibia has received since the beginning of the year, the environment has been resuscitated after years of drought. The countryside is decked out in the greenery of wild grasses and the canopies of thriving trees, while wildflowers add subtle hints of colour. Insects are buzzing about and birds sing their songs of joy. Emaciated wildlife has returned to its normal physical state, and clouds overhead hold the promise of some last rains before the end of the season.

To celebrate our wonderfully green Namibia, here are a couple of images from around the country to showcase nature in all her glory. TNN

Damaraland was severely hit by several years of drought, but a few rain showers have brought the Etendeka Mountains and their valleys back to life.

“Insects are buzzing about and birds sing their songs of joy”

Lilies on Farm Sandhof near the southern town of Maltahöhe were in full bloom toward the end of January.

This only happens after exceptional rainfall and the phenomenon lasts for less than a week.

The only part of Sossusvlei area that resembles the Namib Desert, are the red dunes sticking out from the water-filled pans.

Knee-deep in the usually bone dry Etosha Pan. Taken at the pan’s lookout point, one of the few places where you are allowed to exit your vehicle in Etosha National Park, on Valentine’s weekend.

An elephant browsing in the Klip River, Damaraland.

Rhinos at Kifaru Lodge and Bush Camp struggling to see over the tall grass.

Chuffed with all the greenery in Etosha, a rather wet kori bustard puffs out his neck feathers, trying to dry them.

An elephant browsing in the Klip River, Damaraland.