Damaraland

Damaraland plus the Skeleton Coast are very impressive and ideal for a self-drive. They offer numerous exceptional highlights to be viewed. The Skeleton coast if located in the West while Damaraland lies between Etosha National Park and the Skeleton Coast. The two places hold some of the most rare geology internationally although the largest part remains with scenic landscapes and beautiful sunsets.

The skeleton Coast forma the northern part of the Namib Desert and gained its name from the suspicious seafarers who then sailed along the infertile shoreline along the spice route.you will come across skeletons of elephants, small lizards, shipwrecks and whales, however, the region still has surving flora and fauna. You will be fascinated by the varying landscape, odd glide  of the coastline and the sea plus a blend of life with death.

In Damaraland you will pleasure in tracking the biggest population of rhinos in the world, hike Mountain Brandberg on a four day-voyage, enjoy morning and evening game drives, treat yourself in a top-notch spa or go cycling on a rugged off-road tour. Damaraland has terrifying forests that are odd yet amazing. The region is habitat to some the ancient and greatest rock art collections in the world. The wildlife that is well adapted to the desert survives well in the places with enduring water sources. The black rhinos as well as elephants are seen roaming in a distance looking for food and water.

There is a variety of accommodation facilities in Damaraland. They include the deluxe Mowani Mountain Camp, the average Doro Nawas plus the Twyfelfontein Lodges. Resideing in any of Damaraland’s facilities enables you to explore the entire Twfelfontein region easily, which is popular for its Organ Pipes, rock art like the White Lady Frieze as well as Brandberg Mountains.

If your tour was focused towards wildlife in Damaraland, then travel further to north to the Damaraland or to the Desert Rhino Camp. These tented camps are basically for tracking the wildlife like elephants plus rhinos in this desert.

Damaraland Camp

Damaraland Camp is very serene and welcoming place in the rugged environment with magnificent open spaces dotted with impressive flora and fauna. Game drives, mountain biking, plus nature walks in this immaculate place await you.

Erongo Wilderness Lodge

Erongo Wilderness Lodge is located in a very scenic postcard valley at the intersection of the internal highlands plus the desert. The rooms are built on stilts and neighbored by huge granite boulders. The luxury, serenity and romance all compliment the ambience.

Mowani Mountain Camp

Mowani Mountain Camp derived its name from the term “M’Wane” which means ‘Place of God’ and it is in this place that you will discover the true meaning of serenity.

Skeleton Coast Camp

Skeleton Coast Camp offers very exceptional and charming experience. The ecosystem of the coast blended with the interior desert merge into a Wilderness Safari that is taken by almost all lodges. The camp was constructed on an island of a dried out riverbed in total isolation offering luxury and peace.

Desert Rhino Camp

The Desert Rhino Camp is a rustic isolated rural Safari camp found in the large Palmwag Reserve mid of the Skeleton Coast of the Namib Desert and Etosha National Park. Luxury integral tents with a laid-back living area offer a fascinating experience in the wild.

When planning a safari in Africa, it is wise you use a tour operator. Africa being a very large continent it is good to acquire a genuine Namibia tour operator who won’t pretend to be what they actually aren’t. It is important that any operator focuses specifically on the traveler’s choice of destination so as to narrow down on region of operation and exhibit the best expertise.

With the increasing number of choices to pick from, an operator’s work may turn out to be overwhelming, so it is recommended that for a properly managed operator, they should be in position to carry out the following:

Do away with stress and running around in the name of planning a safari; use the knowledge and familiarity of a single expert.

A tour operator’s selection should be cautiously planned to ensure that their visiting clients have a wonderful experience with well thought-out activities, and proper time management to allow room for personalized adventure for travelers that are rather more adventurous. Such trips are good for families, companies, churches, groups and special organizations.

Namibia is a perfect place for self-drive trips so tout operators should in position to organize for such a need. These self-drive trips are ideal for enjoying an exaggerated exploration across Namibia. Such a safari is easy to plan and guarantees a variety of sites to visit and activities to enjoy.

Being a very large country, a fly-safari enables you to visit all the highlighted destinations of interest in Namibia within the planned time without giving up on some places for the interest of time. For any great tour operator, this shouldn’t be a challenge.

Managing a customized Safari: in most cases, such safaris are usually more costly to organize because planning and research work start from no where.  A good tour operator should be able to save time, vigor and resources to plan an exception safari circuit that involve your desire must see, must visit and must do activities.

If your preference is to travel to far-located destinations, it is wise to consult with your tour operator before inquiring for guidance from travels agents who in most instances have not visited these destinations. Well managed tour operator companies in Namibia that are associated to a number of highly regarded organizations will a wide range of options to suit your desired safari.

Flights in Namibia

The fastest and easy way to acquire a cheap one-way flight ticket is by doing a search over the internet. Try to search on ticket companies that offer discounted prices for one-way flights tickets. Such companies purchase many tickets from airlines at a discount and later sale them cheaply.

To acquire a much cheaper ticket, book into a night flight or one during the week but not weekend; this will save you some money. Majority of the people prefer flying during the day , but for the sake of saving, opt for a night flight. Not forgetting, purchasing your ticket two to four mores earlier than your flight date

You may be accustomed to traveling on particular days or times, but in order to get an affordable flight fare, you have to be flexible with your traveling arrangements. This will enable you get some of the discounted and special offer tickets. Endeavor to make a comparison of the different air ticket offers and discounts presented in the travel directories. And most of all avoid traveling during major holiday seasons because at such times the rates are slightly higher.

It is not difficult to get a cheap one-way flight, but to attain the best deal; carry out your research, book into a night flight or one during the course of week, avoiding major holiday, and always keep time. Keep these few principles in mind and you will succeed on getting the cheapest ticket available.

“How to acquire affordable flight tickets” is a common question that runs in many travelers’ minds. Many frequent travelers unknowingly spend large sums on money as they make their travel arrangements. Below is a list of the best techniques to help you acquire affordable air tickets to your preferred destination.

Make the best use of online resources.  With these numerous websites for booking tickets for flights, making good use of the internet is one of the best techniques that will help you acquire a cheap air ticket. The advantage of navigating between these many websites is that it helps you get a range of prices offered by various airlines, granting you the privilege of choosing the best airfare to your intended destination. Exploit accurate websites such as Orbitz, Travelocity or Kayak for the best airfares; alternatively search for special discounted offers from airline websites.

Peruse through newspapers. This technique is very beneficial to particularly travelers who have limited internet access. Majority of the airlines advertise their special offers and discounted airfare in the newspapers. This precise information can best be acquired in business newspapers or journals. Other than that, some travel agents do post their reductions or discounted offers in theses newspapers or journals. Many travelers have benefited from using this technique.

Directly contact an Airline. By directly calling the airline company for will be able to get good airfares too. Dial the customer care help line, inquire about the prices and book yourself into a flight. By calling the airline company you will be able to know their best offer or discounted rate for that particular month or season of the year. If you do this with a number of companies, you will be able to compare the different rates offered by each company. The main benefit of this technique is that it gives you the exact information concerning the flight fares unlike travel agents.

Purchase from Consolidators. In United States, you will gate the best offers from America, Continental, Southwest, United and Northwest. These best offers are usually mentioned in the websites of airline companies just before second party websites. Other than looking for consolidations online or in the travel section of newspapers, you could opt for looking for them in your local areas. They purchase tickets in bulk from airline companies and sell them at a subsidized price with an aim of filling all the seats on that particular flight.

Some airline companies offer low airfares throughout weekdays, special discounted offers for group tickets for at least 6 people, and during non holiday seasons. If none of the above mentioned techniques works for you, then you could browse the internet for “ways to get cheap flights” although the results they will give you will be the same as mentioned above. Therefore opt for precise techniques like calling directly an airline company.

Since Namibia is a famous tourist destination in Africa, it must have the best accommodation that suits all kinds of tourists. These range from luxurious hotels, lodges, guest houses and the safari camps, therefore the choice depends on what you want. Namibia is one spot that will make you enjoy your holiday with many tourist attractions to see. As you visit Namibia, you will get the true wilderness of Africa. Listed below are some of the best accommodations to stay in located in different areas.

Weltevrede Rest Camp

This popular camp got into existence after the reconstruction of a big farmhouse that was close to the boundary of the Namib Desert. This small lodge was later called the Weltevrede Rest Camp. It’s a 30minute’s drive from Sesriem.The Rest Camp is strategically located to provide the best view of the Sand dunes at Sossusvlei.Staying at this camp will actually save you lots of money you may have used to book a lodge that is close to the dunes.

Namushasha Country Lodge

The Namushasha Country Lodge is situated adjacent to the river banks of Kwando; on the borders of Bwabwata National Park previously called Caprivi Game Park.Caprivi is the only lodge that offers the best discount accommodation prices. This area is surrounded by vegetation that is conquered by marshlands, woodlands along with the riverine forests that are supported by the heavy rainfall of about 600mm as compared to that received in the central Namibia. It’s a paradise for various kinds of wildlife but the most common include sitatunga, red lechwe, buffalos, elephants as well as hippos. These attract large numbers of tourists to Namibia.

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge

This lodge is luxurious and for high class people. It’s situated south of Impalila Island with a beautiful view of river Chobe.Its secretly supervised by well-informed and friendly hosts.Ichingo is well known for its high quality services as well as the best site for tiger fishing. Take a boat ride in the afternoon and catch a glance of the big concentration of the hippos, elephants and crocodiles cooling off the heat at the river.

Canyon Lodge

This peaceful lodge was constructed using rock materials and the roofs were grass thatched. Its design makes the place look so beautiful. Canyon lodge is the idea place to stay in as you catch a glimpse of the marvels of River Canyon situated in Namibia.
You may discover that this lodge is not famous but getting access to it will be the best accommodation on your safari. It’s affordable and has a wonderful ambiance that will make your stay memorable. The main activity done at this place involves cultivation and livestock. It’s the leading producer of cheese and yoghurt in Namibia.

Kuangu Kuangu

This lodge is the best place for couples that want to relax and forget about home. It’s situated adjacent to Naukluft Mountains and the Namib Desert. If you are kind that wants to change the daily environment, Kuangu Kauangu lodge is the best place to stay in as you enjoy the beautiful view of the calm desert.

Mundulea

Mundulea is a fortune lodge that is situated in the southeastern part of Otavi. It’s managed by well-formed and sociable guides that will make your stay memorable. You will get a chance of seeing the secrecy of the true wilderness of Africa. This lodge is favorable for a few people that can take up a two day’s trip.

There are numerous luxurious and comfortable hotels in Namibia that vary from magnificent hotels, safari camps guest houses that are  to locally managed. Basing on the information from the travel guide whom we shall provide to you while in Namibia, you will certainly enjoy a magnificent holiday. Below is a detailed listing of some of the nice accommodation sites we have in different areas.

Weltevrede Rest Camp

This camp came into place after the renovation of a large farmhouse that was at the boarder of the Namib Desert into a small lodge now called the Weltevrede Rest Camp. This camp is just 30 minutes drive from Sesriem. The Rest Camp’s location is ideal to cater for those visiting the sand dunes at Sossusvlei. This will save you from exaggerated prices affiliate with other lodges that are located this close to the dunes.

Namushasha Country Lodge

The Namushasha Country Lodge is located on the banks of river Kwando, on the outskirts of Bwabwata National Park formerly known as Caprivi Game Park. In the whole of Caprivi, this lodge offers the best affordable accommodation rates. The vegetation of this area is dominated by woodlands, marshlands and riverine forests supported by an average of 600mm of rainfall which is twice that received in central Namibia. It is also a haven for hippos, elephants, buffalos, red lechwe and sitatunga.

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge

This lodge is basically for high income visitors. It’s located south of Impalila Island overlooking river chobe. It is privately managed by knowledgeable and amiable hosts. Ichingo has earned a widely known reputation of having quality guides with renowned success in landing tiger fish. Enjoy a boat ride for a sundowner delimited with big herds of elephants and hippos.

Canyon Lodge

This serene lodge was built using local materials of rocks and the roofs are grass thatched. Canyon Lodge is a perfect place to stay as you discover the wonders of River Canyon located in Namibia.

Despite the fact that it is not widely marketed, Canyon Lodge has one interesting fact about it; it’s search for self-reliance. In addition to producing its own yoghurt and cheese, they rare a variety of livestock as well as cultivate a number of vegetables.

Kuangu Kuangu

This self catering place is a beautiful hideaway ideal for a couple; located at the bordered of the Naukluft Mountains and the great Namib Desert. It is an ideal place for those who would love to escape form the daily routine of life and unwind in the beautiful and serene desert.

Mundulea

This undiscovered treasure is located south east of Otavi. In the company of highly knowledgeable and amiable guides, you will discover the mysteries of this unscathed wilderness. This destination best suits small or private groups staying for about two days.

Waterberg Plateau Park

The inaccessible Waterberg Plateau Park made of pure red cliffs and stunning rock formations projects from the leveled savannah plains to a height of 200 meters above the neighboring landscape.  It is a confined breeding place for a number of animal species facing extinction such as black and white rhinoceros, antelopes and buffalos. It has over 200 different species of birds and the only existing colony in Namibia of the Cape Vulture that is facing extinction.

Although Namibia is majorly a desert country, it is an ideal territory for bird watchers. Bird watching safaris in Namibia are very quiet and full of adventure, involve tourists going to places and visiting various sites in search for birds. Namibia just like any other major birding place is a very interesting safari destination that has attracted hundreds of both bird watchers and professional photographers form all over the world. It has become a center for both qualified and armature birders who are challenging their birding expertise. Therefore what birders need to do is to prioritize on taking bird watching holiday packages that offer visiting many various bird spots.

Etosha Birding Trips in Namibia

This National Park is one of the best wildlife Parks in Africa, with over 380 different species of birds. On just a single bird trail a proficient birder can view up to 200 bird species in the park such as the Secretary bird, , Chestnut Weaver, Black-winged Pratincole, Bennett’s Woodpecker, Stark’s Lark, , Monteiro’s Hornbill, Chestnut Weaver,  Ludwig’s Bustard, Pygmy Falcon and Red-necked Falcon, Rosy-faced Lovebird and the Kori Bustard. Other species to spot are: Caspian Plover, Bradfield’s Hornbill, Chestnut-banded Plover, Montagu’s Harrier, Crimson-breasted Shrike, Blue Crane, Bare-cheeked Babbler, Sociable Weaver and Carp’s Tit.

In the extreme west of the Etosha National Park are many Kalahari related species such as the Barred Wren-Warbler, Scaly-feathered Finch, Marico Flycatcher, Violet-eared Waxbill and Southern Pied Babbler. Also the Violet Wood-Hoopoe and the Green Wood-Hoopoe can be sighted but only by proficient birdes.

Along the Namib coast lays the Walvis Bay pond which is a natural anchorage and coastal wetland that is comprised of three major wetlands that make it an ideal stopover for migrating bird.  Some of the migrating birds found in this Bay include: the Wilson’s Storm-Petrel, Parasitic Jaeger, White-chinned Petrel, Wilson’s Storm-Petrel and the Wilson’s Storm-Petrel.

Swakopmund Birding Tours in Namibia

Swakopmund is a deserted town found in the submerged region of Namibia. Tourists who are interested in watching birds will enjoy doing so a spot it being a stopover over for various migrating birds.the town has many sea birds like the African Black Oystercatcher, motley crew of Swift, Arctic and Black Terns, Arctic and Black Terns, Sandwich and the Kelp Gull.

As was published in the Gazette of 1^st March, 1990, Mamili National Park is the largest wet land in the whole of Namibia. Its leafy vegetation has attracted a number of water birds, weavers, ducks and rails. Other species inhabiting in this park are the unique green eyed Slaty Egret, White-Fronted, African Open-Bill, Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eaters and the Black Herons. In the dry seasons, other species like ostriches, kori bustard, black-bellied bustard and the Denham’s are seen around this area. A professional birder can catch sight of the Grey Cisticola, , African Golden Oriole, African Emerald Cuckoo, Green-Capped Eremomela, Trumpeter Hornbill,Crested Barbet, White-Browed, , African Goshawk, African Little Sparrowhawk and Red-Capped Robin-Chats.

This Island is found at the far east of the Caprivi Strip, surrounded by River Chobe, Rivers Zambezi and Kasai a natural channel. Some of the resident birds on this island are: Rosy-throated Longclaw, African Finfoot, White-crowned Lapwing, White-backed Night-Heron, Red-headed Quelea, Pel’s Fishing-Owl and the Half-collared Kingfisher. Others include: African Pygmy-Goose, Western Banded Snake-Eagle, Southern Brown-throated Weaver, Swamp Nightjar, Little Bittern, Bat Hawk, Thrush Nightingale, Pennant-winged Nightjar, Olive Woodpecker, -backed Honey bird, Hartlaub’s Babbler, Broad-tailed Paradise-Whydah and Meyer’s Parrot. Birding on Impalila Island is best done between the months of April and November, when the migrant birds are just arriving.

The Waterberg Plateau Park is a huge magnificent sandstone, laying in the central section of Namibia; 70 kilometers from Otjiwarongo town it is the only known breeding area for the Cape Vulture and Booted Eagle in the country..  It is a sanctuary to many rare bird species such as Rockrunner, Violet Wood-Hoopoe, Tinkling Cisticola Orange River Francolin, Hartlaub’s Spurfowl and theRufous-bellied Tit.

Katima Mulilo

This is a small town found in the Caprivi Strip on the shores of river Zambezi. Its verdant riverside vegetation acts as the best sanctuary for several birds including the O White-Backed Night-Heron, White-Backed Night-Heron, Pel’s Fishing-Owl, Western-Banded Snake-Eagle and the Rufous-Bellied Heron. Other species are the Tropical Boubou, White-Browed Coucal and the African Golden Oriole.

Etosha National Park Namibia safari

The actual flagship playground certainly is your Etosha Uganda Park: thirty,000 square kilometres involving salt pot, grasslands and furthermore open up wood land. Property for you to Africa’s dried spot experts, anticipate for you to find available away elephants along having dark-colored rhinos, significant kittens and cats (the idea significantly will be any great location regarding lion as well as cheetah) along with even more compact predators, furthermore many types of antelope starting from your stately gemsbok about the particular diminutive Damara dik-dik.

This tracks commonly blowing wind concerning waterholes where the match jostles pertaining to position although next to help nothing really surpasses the activity acknowledged for the particular massive, lasting waterholes in Etosha’s about three camps. Right here you are going to locate comfortable sitting ignoring your waterholes which can possibly be furthermore floodlit from evening in order to make available company a style involving Etosha’s bustling nightlife.

Waterberg Plateau Gemstone

This Waterberg Skill level Play ground comes together with a fully varied carry out fit viewing in that this creatures can possibly be found upon major regarding your plateau covered in spectacular grasslands along together with open up woodland. Current re-introduction workshops have noticed exceptional add ons with your mammal list collectively having white-colored rhinocerous, sable and roan antelope.

Caprivi Go having Habitat

Men and women company nobody sense they are missing famous Cameras mammals regarding illustration hippos with addition to buffalo might wish for you to devote a various days and nights in the a great deal a new great deal more watered Caprivi Remove exactly your position the particular numerous rivers along together with swamps help the particular water-dependent variety. Effort the Caprivi Sport Play ground in which you could in addition always be agreeably amazed to learn abundant crops and furthermore exclusive bird watching.

Damaraland

This specific durable spot is usually one connected with ruined foothills and additionally pea gravel plains, thorn wash and dry pond bedrooms – not the original selection intended for wildlife looking at you may believe. It’s on the other hand just one of your really best spots to determine the very dwindling in numbers cameras american rhino also because dry area-adapted ‘desert elephant’. You could be across the search for other dried out location experts such as gemsbok, brown leafy hyena, Cape fox and kudu.

Etosha

Those interested in watching wildlife in the beautiful Namibia, Etosha National Park should be Part of your itinerary. It has a varied vegetation cover including woodlands, and the savanna all crowded with wildlife. Covering about five thousand square kilometers, the park has its biggest portion covered by the Etosha Pan which for the biggest half of the year an empty whit area, shining with mirages and distant animals looking for water.

The several natural springs in the area attract numerous animals ranging from the prevalent small ones to the large elephants. Out of the 114 animal species in the park, majority of them are endangered and very uncommon like the black rhinos as well as the black-faced impala. On the other hand big predators like lions, leopards plus cheetahs are all ready to hunt. The park is also a fine bird watching destination with more than 340 bird species some of which are migratory birds.

Wildlife Safaris in Etosha

There are more than 115 animal species in Etosha National Park among which are the endangered black& white rhinos plus the black-faced impalas. There are no monkeys, hippos, crocodiles and buffalos in the park. In the dry months starting June up to November, the large game are attracted towards the water points enabling tourists to easily spot them and at that time there are approximately 150 Animal species present. Lucky visitors will catch sight of the leopards plus cheetahs in addition to other uncommon species like the gemsbok plus tssesebe.

Birding Tours in Etosha

More than 340 species of birds reside in the Etosha.  Among the thousands of birds that fill the skies are flamingoes which are attracted to the water in the Etosha pan. The permanent springs on the rim of the Pan also attract large numbers of uncommon bird species. Similar to all bird watching spots in Southern Africa, Namibia is mainly toured for birding in during the rainy months starting October through to April. It’s during this season that Palaerctic and African migrants reach this place to breed.

When to Visit Etosha National Park

Game viewing in the Etosha National Park is very unique during late May to the highlights of the September. This is the cooler season in Namibia and during which visitors will see most elephants, rhinos, lions and giraffes. At the start of the rainy season from October until April towards the end of summer, animals are hardly seen at the water spots found on the tourist routes, hence this is not the ideal time to visit the park for game viewing.

Getting There

The park is served by a fine road network that joins the three major campsites and other auxiliary roads that point to the waterholes. Proceed to Von Lindenquist Gate via Otjiwarongo plus Tsumeb, further to Namutoni camp which is about eleven kilometers into the park. The major entrance to the park is at Andersson Gate adjacent to Okaukuejo in the southern direction. The Von Lindequist Gate next to Namutoni is the eastern entrance. The new Mpingana Gate or King Nehale Gate opened at the start of 2003 is in the north east. Using the Eastern route will take to the park after close to 552 kilometers from north of Windhoek and all the roads on the route are welled tarred hence no inconvenience.

There are several private game reserves near Etosha National Park like the Ongave Game reserve plus the Onguma Game Reseve. The benefit of residing in any of these reserves is that you get the opportunity to enjoy night game drives and bush walks in the company of a well trained guide. The accommodation offered is perfect and perhaps among the very luxurious lodging in the country. Our most-like private camps are the Ongava Lodge, Onguma Tented Camp and Little Ongava Camp.

Etosha Safari Lodges and Etosha Hotels

The park has a wide assortment of comfortable lodges. You can select any of the private lodges on the outskirts of the park like Ongava or Onguma that provide day time trips into the park. Good about residing in the lodges inside the park is that you can spend the night sitting at the waterholes watching the animals visiting animals coming to have a drink. It’s for this reason that we overlook their ordinary accommodation facilities and include them even in luxurious and standard expeditions.  The private reserves near Etosha National Park operate game drives during the day in the park.  However you can pleasure in game drive or bush walk in the evening on private allowance.

Little Ongava Camp

The Little Ongava Camp is small and can accommodate a maximum of six guests. However the lodge has beautiful prints and offers incomparable luxury. The camp overlooks a scenic waterhole in a private reserve that is bordered by Etosha National Park to the north.

Ongava Tented Camp

This Tented Camp is a rural and warm lodge located in a private reserve neighbored by Etosha National Park in the north. The lodges overlook the reserve and the vast major lodge overlooks an often visited by animals.

Onguma Tented Camp

Seven large suits have a great view of a water hole and offer great luxury, and posh lodging facilities. It is located in a private reserve at the rim of the Etosha National Park.

Ongava Lodge

The Ongava Lodge located on the outskirts of the Etosha Park is a private lodge with a high-class level of comfort all in a very warm and sociable setting in Ongava.

Onguma Bush Lodge

The Onguma is a luxurious private lodge on the eastern rim of Etosha National Park found within a private reserve. It has six rooms that include a tiny campsite plus a family compartment. The ambiance is quite relaxing and intimate with endless opportunities of bird watching as well as game viewing.

Villa Mushara

You may feel lazy to leave your nice bed when at the Mushara Villa. However, we propose that you participate in at least one game drive in the Etosh National Park which is just ten minutes drive from your villa in the company of your ranger.

A comfy tented camp on the outskirt s of Etosha National park is the Mushara Outpost that comprises of 8 canvas tents and each having a wooden open deck that unveils the immaculate African bushes.

Eagle Tented Lodge and Spa

On the southern end of Etosha National park within a private reserve is the Eagle Tented Lodge and spa. The High tented rooms provide luxury and breath taking views of the valley plus the surrounding area are covered in thatch plus stones.

Epacha Game Lodge and Spa

At the rim of the Etosha National Park within a private reserve is Epacha Game Lodge and Spa a very comfortable stylish colonial fashioned hotel. It has eighteen lodges each spacious and comfortable enough with a self contained bathroom, private balcony and air conditioning. The unique game viewing is almost outshined by the great luxury.

When you think of Namibia, the first thing that crosses your mind is the large desert land. Yes this is very true but there is this one place that will prove to you that other than the Namib Desert, Namibia has more to offer. Etosha National Park is the ideal place to experience the beauty of a true Safari holiday on the continent of Africa.

Etosha National Park that lays in the northern region of Namibia was once the largest game reserve in the world until the year 1960 when it was reduced from 100,000 square kilometers to 22,000 square kilometers that it is currently covering. The downsize of this National Park is attributed to the political pressure that it faced during that time. Despite this down size, Etosha National Park is still a very popular National Park in Africa.

Other than the wonderful scenery and beautiful landscape, Etosha National Park has a perfect infrastructure that spices up the day trips making them more exciting. Namutoni, Okaukuejo and Halali are the three camps found in the park and these are joined together by well looked after gravel roads. These camps have restaurants, shopping stores, swimming pools and not forgetting camping sites, hotels and chalets.

The pan

The name Estosha which means “Great White Place” was derived from the large endorheic salt pan in this area. The pan spreads over 25% of the park’s landscape and covers about 120 square kilometers, draining its waters from River Ekuma.

Etosha

Many years ago the Etosha pan used to be a lake getting water from River Kunene. When this river changed its course, the lake dried up, resulting into a large depression with clay and salt. What remains of this once existing lake is lifeless baked earth and a little water on its outer edge.

The Etosha Pan’s characteristic green and white surface is a breeding ground for many Flamingos especially in the rainy season when its waters have become shallow at a depth of roughly 10 centimeters. The overwhelming number of resident pink flamingos that cover the entire pan like a blanket has attracted hundreds of photographers and tourists from all over the world annually.

The wildlife

Another exciting activity in the Etosha Park is game viewing. With the numerous watering holes found on its outskirts, chances are that you may not only sight at Flamingos only but some animals too. Lions, giraffes, elephants and rhinos are some of the animals that come to drink from the Etosha pan. On a lucky day visitors may be lucky to a glimpse at the timid leopards and cheaters.

More than game

It is said that rules must be broken, but when it comes to Etosha National Park, the rule that ‘no visitor should get out of their vehicle once they leave their perimeter camp areas’ as it is with all parks should never be broken. The price to pay for breaking this rule is quite a big one.

There are two main reasons why this is emphasized.First and foremost, it is for your own safety because these animals are frightened by people and not vehicles. Once frightened, these animals become so dangerous and their next move is never predictable.

Secondly, it’s for the sake of protecting these endangered animals species in Africa. The Namibian government is fighting poaching. This park is just one hundred kilometers from the country’s boarder; so the South Africa’s Defense Force carries out training within the park in an effort to discourage and take into custody any poachers.

You may be asking yourself the reason as to why one would go for a Safari in Namibia that will endanger their life. The answer is very simple; the truth of the matter is that probability of these risks happening is very minimal. The park has put in place extreme measures to ensure the visitors’ safety. Luck enough, poaching is done majorly in the night so there is no need for fear.

One of the natural and outstanding wonders in Namibia is the Skeleton National Park that was gazzetted in the year 1973. It covers a total area of 16,000 square kilometers, with much of it laying in the region between Kunene region and river Ugab. North of the park is a concession are while the south has more activity for travelers to visit. The major attractions in this secluded place include magnificent landscape, different bird species and wildlife like jackal, springbok, ostriches, Oryx and brown hyenas which can been on the plains.

Skeleton Coast Giraffes

In the dried riverbed you will see desert elephants, lions, black rhinos and giraffes wandering around in search for spring water holes and green vegetation to feed. The animals in the park have adapted to the cruel conditions and watching their way of life in a bid to survive is such a unique experience. In addition to the various desert plant species that you will be able to sight at, there are numerous species of birds flying in this place.

Activities at Skeleton Coast Camp

People visiting the Skeleton Coast do enjoy a whole day touring, and most of the popular tourist sites are located around the haven of a large colony of far seals that spectacularly dive into the crushing waves of Cape Fria. You will also learn about the Dunedin Star and the astonishing rescue mission that involved a crashed airplane, a small boat that was beaches and a fleet of so many 4X4 vehicles.

Embracing a Himba Woman

Having a long nature trek along the beaches with spotless white sand is another common activity carried out especially by holiday tourists. Majority of the beaches found in this area have whale bones littered on them. Sun bathing, fishing and boat cruises, and surfing on river Kunene are some of the other activities that take place at the beach.

Alternatively you may opt for a trip to the Terrace Bay which is a renowned fishing spot on the resort.

There are also exciting drives over the magnificent dune belts, through the large gravel plains dotted with an overabundance of lichens in dazzling color and sizes. Drive up river Hoarusib’s bed where you will view giraffes, Oryx and desert elephants. This eventful and memorable drive will be the highlighting drive to be taken on the Skeleton Coast.

Skeleton Coast Birds

Himba village is a place visited by majority of the travelers that go to the Skeleton Coast. This visit provides a plat form to interact with the natives of this area. There is quite a lot to discover from them say their mesmerizing traditional way of life. You will be able to take some photographs with these people.

Another quite adventurous activity is tracking down of the desert elephants.

Other tourist sites in the skeleton coast include the wreck of the Dunedin Star, the clay castles of the Hoarusib River, Cape Fria seal colony and Rocky Point.

When to Go

In Skeleton Coast’s weather is so unpredictable. The coast has early morning thick fog that extends inland to a distance of 30 kilometers. These damp conditions happens every nine months annually and result into cool temperatures that persist through out the whole day. Although this thick mist affects visibility, it is ecologically beneficial because it provides water that the flora and fauna of the desert which includes 80 different species survives on.

Luderitz

Luderitz was constructed on rocks in a small enclave in the restricted Sperrgebiet of the Diamond area.  It is the old fashioned harbor town of Luderitz with numerous historical structures that were constructed in the German style during the period of the diamond rush.

Other than a sparkling bay, these buildings are uniquely characterized of winding stairways, bay and bow windows and turrets.

There are two buildings where visitors are allowed to sightsee during visiting hours and these include the former magistrate’s residence that was constructed in 1909; Goerke–Haus which is the most outstanding and the Lutheran Church; Felsenkirche which was built in 1912 and lays on a hill beyond the bay.

Luderitz was German’s first ever settlement in the earlier-Sudwest-Afrika. It got its name after Adolf Luderitz who was a Bremen businessman that initiated the activity of trading at the harbor. Adolf Luderitz convinced Bismarck to put this port under the protection of the Germans, and this was granted in 1884.

At Dias, an imitation of the cross that was raised by Bartolomeu Dias; a Portuguese navigator in 1488 can be seen.  The local museum describes the unique history of this town.  Luderitz has a center for art and craft, in addition to a weaver where carpets from karakul wool; and wall hangings are made.

In addition to the tarred road that connects from Keetmanshoop, Luderitz has another gravel road that connects to it, running through Helmeringhausen and Maltahohe. By driving through these roads you will see some of the most spectacular sites in Namibia.

Luderitz is a haven for many different species of marine birds. The shallow pond is a habitat to a vast numbers of cormorants, seagulls and flamingos. A boat ride at the bay will enable you sight at the dolphins and seals that swim in the water.

Its rocky cost is dotted with many small bays, reefs and beautiful beaches to explore. And the four preferred angler species are: rock lobster, steenbras, galjoen and the dassie.

Grosse Lagoon and the Grosse Bucht are the most well-liked wind surfing places. Board-sailing competitions take place in the Easter weekend while the Snoek Derby in the long weekend of May.

There is an exciting desert golf course for golfers, referred to as “the rock with oiled green”.  Clubs for playing can be rented from the town’s golf club.

Sporadic brown hyenas, brisk-walking jackals and springboks next to the sea are now and again seen on the beach.

The most striking plant species is the pink flowered Bushman’s candle, which thrives on the black rocks. Also, rare species of the dwarf succulents thrives in this area for example the small lithops commonly referred to as Hottentot’s buttocks.

In Luderitz, a tour operative will offer you the opportunity of enjoying an adventure through the restricted Diamond Area to see the Bogenfels; a rocky arch which protrudes 55 meters high from the sea.

Windhoek is the capital city of Namibia; so many activities are carried out in the center including legislation and administration to keep the city in order. As you plan to visit Namibia, your first place of interest will be visiting Windhoek. Since it’s a capital city, it has well maintained roads and buildings that make it a beautiful destination. It has a small population of about 230,000 people with a wonderful culture of people including Afrikaans, Nama, Buster, Kavango, Damara, Owambo along with the German people that are seen on the streets. As you enter into the city, you will be welcomed by the German architecture that can’t be found in Sossusblei or Etosha.The Afro-Germanic merge make Namibia one destination to visit with a lot of history to learn and activities to do.

The town is small but over crowded by suburbs which are tidily placed into valleys and the surrounding corners.Maerua shopping mall is only accessible shop with all products that you want. The town has an open-air market that sells arts and crafts that are bought by tourists as souvenir .The environment is more of Africa and the local people will actually make your day bright.

Whichever direction you take when you are in town, you will be surrounded by Africa’s savannah, luxury accommodation and wildlife reserves. The well maintained roads waits as you explore Namibia. Windhoek has many hotels with better services and facilities, it’s the only place where safaris begin and end. Before or after your tour, you will get a chance to have a night in Windhoek. The nightlife is quite exciting with entertainment to make your night memorable.

Where to Stay

This is shouldn’t really bother you if you are visiting Namibia, Windhoek as the capital city has various accommodation ranging from hotels, lodges and guesthouses. The choice will depend on where you want to stay. You will be welcomed by a Namibian style of how their hotels are organized and experience its worth.

Truth be told, Olive Grove Guesthouse in Windhoek is certainly one place to stay, its budget friendly with better services and facilities. Its interior design will leave you mesmerized and you will enjoy a cool ambiance of the place.

Olive Grove Guesthouse

Oliva Grove is a fashionable, graceful and serene boutique hotel situated on the northern corner of Windhoek’s city centre. It has about 11 rooms well designed with modest fashion along with a lounge. Other facilities include patio, swimming pool, open-plan Kitchen and a spa that will give you the best treatment after a long day.

The Village Courtyard Suites

It’s adjacent to the city center and reachable to the airport and Windhoek’s places of interests. It has shops  that sell arts and crafts for the tourist that visit the place.Restuarants serve both local and international cuisine .Spending a night at this village make you enjoy the countryside of Namibia.

Heinitzburg Hotel

The Heinitzburg hotel is not actually big but has a lavish hotel that offers a wonderful view of Windhoek city. Since 2002, A Relais & Chateaux have been members to this hotel.It have the best cuisine and wine served and the facilities offered are great to make you feel comfortable.

Okapuka Ranch

Kapuka Ranch covers an area of about 30kms and it’s located in the north of Windhoek. It’s a secret game reserve that is often visited by tourists. The lodge is well designed with spacious rooms, lavish restaurant and fully stocked bar with a win cellar. Game games are done very early in morning or late in the evening when the animals are roaming around the park. Nature walks are also done in the morning before the sun becomes too much.

Villa Verdi

Villa Verdi offers elegant accommodation and it’s positioned in Windhoek. You will experience Africa at its best on your arrival in Namibia. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with better services and facilities to enable you enjoy your stay.

What animals you can expect to see in Namibia

Explore Namibia and see the unusual wildlife adaptations that these plants and animals have taken up in oreder to survive in this harsh desert environment. The large trees, small insect and different animals have all attempts to see that they survive by conserving some water.

Look at the Desert Elephants found in Damaraland that have adapted to exist without water for close to 4 days

The Terebrionid Beetles found in the Namib Desert accumulate fog to get water

Photograph the Oryx in Sossusvlei that regulate their temperature in their brains through passing it out through the capillaries

Damaraland is a breeding and growing ground for Gheckos and a dwelling of the biggest population of black Rhinos adapted to the desert in the world.

Observe the seals in the Cape Cross Seal Colony

Caprivi Strip is a green oasis with rivers plus wetland, just like Chobe as well as Okavango

What makes a safari to Namibia so unique?

Namibia is normally called the Land of Contrast and its diverse wildlife is not different. Visit Namibia to see the unspoiled and isolated landscapes. At first sight, you may see a searing and cruel landscape however; as you proceed with your voyage you will be fascinated by the unique adaptations taken on by wildlife to survive under these desert conditions.

Safari in Namibia

The Namib Desert is among the ancient deserts in the world covering an expanse of two thousand kilometer starting from south Angola besides the coast of Namibia extending to south western Africa. It is supposed that the desert began existing close to eighty thousand millions ago, although the most current change happened close to five thousand million years ago after the formation of the Benguela Current. The cold ocean winds blowing over this landmass holds little moisture resulting into minimal or no rainfall along the coastal area of Namibia. The resulting dry conditions necessitate the wildlife in this area to have special adaptations to be able to survive in these conditions.  Because moisture is very vital for life, plants like Nara plus the spiky Love Grass exploit the fog that rolls off the chilly Benguela Current which plants in the long run act as food to other species of wildlife.

The Oryx regulates its body temperature through running its blood in a capillary network prior to getting to the brain. The large ears of the Bat-ear Fox have a good network of blood veins that serve the same function. On the other hand the Ground Squirrel lifts its hairy tail t form a shady umbrella for its body. Most laughable about the wildlife is the Desert Lizard which appears to dance while alternating their feet off the very scorching desert sand in an effort of keeping cool.

The Camel Thorn is the biggest tree in the whole of the Namib Desert with very very deep roots helping it to absorb water from the depths of the earth. Its pods shaped like kidneys are nutritious and enjoyed by springboks plus other herbivores. The rough tree bark offers shelter for geckos, spiders, insects, skinks and scorpions. The branches are a habitat to several birds like Vultures, Sociable weavers and eagles.

The leading wildlife destination in Namibia

It you want to watch the wildlife in Namibia in its full glory, then the perfect place to go is Etosha National Park. Established in 1907 as a game reserve by Fredrich Von Lindequist a governor, it covers approximately 2.26 million hectares and is among the biggest in Africa. The region holds the Big Five and other indigenous species like the Damara Dik Dik and the black-faced Impala.

Etosha means “place of mirage” or a “place of dry water” or even “large white area” because the park is mainly dominated by a massive Etosha Pan. The Namibia Wildlife Resorts an agency managed by the Namibian government has 3 lodges in Etosha National Park which are: Halali, Okaukuejo and Namutoni. Okaukuejo is popular for its flooded waterhole that is often visited by lions, black rhinos and elephants for a drink. There are numerous private reserves near this park like the Ongava Private Game Reserve plus the Onguma Private Game Reserve. The benefit of residing in any of these reserves is that you get the opportunity to see the animal on foot and also at night.

Damaraland & Kaokoland – North Western Namibia

From the wildlife point of view, the region called the kaokoveld is vital because of its somewhat healthy numbers of desert Elephants and black rhinos. The region is a real wilderness that has helped the desert black-rhinos to survive. Back in 1960, their population through Africa was estimated to be 100,000 but unfortunately, today there are close to 2600 left hence being an endangered species. The desert elephants are not different from the African elephants (Loxodonta africana)although they have well adapted to surving in the dry conditions in Kaokoveld  and can do without water for almost four days. The desert elephants have mastered how to eat sparingly through feeding on leaves, flowers, tubers, roots sedges and bulbs.

Atlantic Coast: Namibia, Skeleton Coast plus Swakopmund

Compared to the species of wildlife in the other parts of Namibia, the Atlantic shoreline is truly exceptional.

Outstandingly are the Cape Fur Seals that have a massive colony of between 80,000 to 100,000 members at Cape Cross adjacent to Swakopmund.  This is just one among the 6 breeding colonies of this species in South Africa plus the Namibian Mainland and is frequented by male seals while the territories are well demarcated and assertively defended. During their very first months, the seal pups are so vulnerable and draw brown hyenas plus jackals which come to feed on the pups.

The Skeleton Coast National Park which was named after the numerous shipwrecks from the ancient past is an impressive park. The waters in thus area are very nutritious and attract big populations of fish like the Cape Horse Mackerel, Pilchard, Hake and the Anchovy, which in turn draw birds that feed on them. The Heaviside Dolphins are another prevalent species in this area although they are restricted to the shallow waters along the coast. Fascinatingly, the very first correct scientific description of these dolphins was published in the year 1988.

Caprivi Strip Namibia: Okavango and Chobe all rolled into one

The Caprivi Strip is a very exceptional place in Namibia with a green assortment of trees plus floodplains in which the rivers never at any one time run dry. The strip is a panhandle that connect Namibia to 4 other countries an odd river convergence.

The wildlife in this area include: roan antelopes, Puku, African Buffalo, Red Lechwe, elephants  the impala and the Reed buck. It is the only locality in this country where you can view the Nile Crocodiles plus Hippos. The birdlife here is very fascinating, and is best seen in the forests and the water channels with more than four hundred bird species visible.

Sossusvlei is another top destination in Namibia that attracts hundred of photographers from all over the world. It has red sand and striking dunes that have diverse shades of colors that interchangeably fade or deepen during the day.

The road that leads to Sossusvlei starts from Sesriem and is lined by alien dazzling colored dunes. These dunes keep changing color every passing hour from orange, pink and maroon, as well; the Tsaris Mountains display deep purples and blue colors. Furthermore, the sight of the yellow grasses that dance in the windy plains gives such an intriguing experience. Sossusvlei is a haven for ostriches, Oryx and springboks that are seen now and again roaming in this area.

The elevated dunes adjacent to vlei are one of the highest we have in the world and are 350 meters (1,120 ft) high from the bottom to the top. Notably, they are more like enormous pile of sand that formed at the rim of other longitudinal dune ridges surrounding the erosion trough of river Tsauchab. Sossuvlei located at an altitude of 570 meters (1,824 ft) beyond sea level; and some dune peaks project up to 960 meters (3,027 ft) beyond sea level.

Sossusvel Climate Namibia

Because of their crescent shape, Sossusvlei dunes are referred to as star dunes. Superlatively viewed from the sky, the multiple integrated crests that converge at the highest peak resulted from the back and forth shifting of sand that was caused by multi-directional strong winds. Blanket of sand called “smoking dunes” are formed by the winds that blow over the Vlei.

Special consideration should be given to the olden thorny camel trees adjacent to the dry river Tsauchab up to Vlei. The 4km tarred road accessible by two wheel drive vehicles stretches from Sossuvlei to an ideal area for parking and picnics and then disappears into the thick sand .The residual journey is accomplished by  4WD vehicle or footage.

There are area shuttles moving back and forth the parking area and Sossusvlei, though they are fairly expensive; N150 p/p both ways. Trekking is tiring and takes about one hour, however it presents an opportunity to explore the vicinity, sight see the wandering animals and discover the entire landscape Sossusvlei and neighborhood.

If you are to travel to another country, transport arrangement is one of the vital requirements that you should always pay a little more attention. Chances are that you may have a guided tour and view the various tourist attractions in the presence of a guide. But what happens if you are the adventurous type that would love to go for an extra self ventured tourist destination, or enjoy private rides in the country side? Always endeavor to book a car for hire before your real travel date. This will save you from worrying about your transportation needs when at your travel destination. Namibia has various car hire companies, but the challenging is finding a genuine and reliable one. Below is a detailed listing of the basic tips to use to get a good car for hire.

Always opt for a car provider who has a variety of cars to pick from. Regardless of traveling for leisure or business, the provider should have the best car to suit your every need. For business trips its best to settle for an elegant and luxurious car, while a rugged but reliable car is best for country side drives and climbing mountains. Remember that there are cars suited for group, family or individual travels.

Choose a provider who can avail you with cars in the major cities and the tourist destinations you intend to visit. This is very crucial if you are visiting multiple tourist sites in a single safari. Such an arrangement will necessitate you to use one car provide and make one single payment.

To test the reliability of a car hire provider, remember to visit their website. This will give you a background of the company and help you understand the exact kind of business they deal in. you will be able to see the credit this company is given by reading comments from some of its clients that it has already provided this service to.

Namibia is a country with a well planned and properly maintained road network, but remember that you will be driving through a very large desert, so one of the biggest threats that we can’t forget to mention is getting lost out in the desert. This does not occur so often but it does happen. Poorly trained travelers that lose track of their journey in the desert and are not well equipped with the proper gadgets and food supplies may perish.

There are numerous things to view and involve in Namibia and the choice is all left to you. The country is majorly covered by desert and what completes any holiday in Namibia is taking some time off trying to appreciate and explore the desert. The wildlife in Namibia is also very exciting and you can view the Big Five plus other game in Etosha National Park. The Skeleton Coast plus Damaraland are very fascinating places where you can learn more about the adaptations of wildlife like elephants plus black rhinos, that have enable them to survive under the very bad desert conditions.

Windhoek

This is Namibia’s capital city and it’s the beginning point for majority of the safaris. It’s up to date German architecture have made it a peculiar city that will certainly keep you very busy prior to your trip.

Sossusvlei

This is possibly the most famous of all destinations in the country. The heart of the Namib Naukluft National Park is a haven to some among the uppermost sand dunes internationally.

Swakopmund

Unlike other towns in the Country, Swakopmund is exceptional. Interestingly, this seashore resort has for ages been a favorite escape destination for several holiday makers that want to get away from the desert heat and rather spend some time unwinding on the gorgeous beaches.

Damaraland and the Skeleton Coast

Damaraland plus the Skeleton Coast are very scenic self drive places with numerous exceptional highlights worth touring. The Skeleton Coast is found in the west while Damaraland lies between this coast and Eastosha National Park to the East.

Etosha National Park

The largest part of the park is covered by an extensive pan. However the park is popular for its outstanding fine plains that enable good game viewing. Residing in the adjacent privately owned game reserve offers you the chance to pleasure in a night game drive plus night bush walks. It is quite an adventure!

Kaokoland and Kunene River

The Kaokoland plus the River Kunene region in Namibia lies in far-most northwestern corner of Namibia.it is very remote and can be accessed only light aircrafts. Going there will give you an opportunity to interact with the local people residing in this rural wilderness.

Waterberg Plateau

This plateau is located approximately two hour’s drive north of the town of Windhoek making it an ideal self-drive locality. Reside in Okonjima to visit the rehabilitation project – Africat Foundation that is re-introducing cheetahs plus other predators into the jungle.

Caprivi

This strip found in north East Namibia is a very undeveloped yet exceptional destination that stands out among the rest in Namibia. Its fertile river network plus wetlands make it an oasis that attracts wildlife plus several birds.

Luderitz

Luderitz is a small seashore town lying in the south eastern end of Namibia. Reside there and tour Kolmanskop a ghost town, plus the Wild Horse of Aus. This undeveloped destination is certainly worth spending in a night or more.

Kalahari and Fish River Canyon

The Kalahari plus the Fish River Canyon region is dominated with cattle plus sheep farming and a rising number of game farms. The scenic region is ideal for a one night stay as you travel to Luderitz or when going voyaging from South Africa.

With the average temperatures plus the odd German Architecture, Swakopmund is a renowned holiday destination in Namibia. Swakopmund is an enjoyable town with no deficiency of coffee shops and exciting activities. In this small village your  days are fast filled by adventure or the details of nature that will fascinate you.

In Swakopmund and its surrounding Walvis Bay up to the extensive Skeleton Coast are several activities and trips. Explore the rich marine life well supported by the Benguela current, plus the interesting creatures as well as sceneries of the desert all in your backyard. Those interested in adventure can go sky diving, sand-boarding, crayfish diving, quad diving as well as deep-sea fishing. Look through the section of Namibia Activities to get any additional information.

Swakopmund has a variety of hotels from which you can choose ranging from Private Bed and Breakfast to Family owned, five Star Hotels plus Casinos. Contact any consultant from Rhino Africa about assisting you to choose the most suitable hotel.

Hotels and other accommodation facilities in Swakopmund vary though are all very impressive. Similar to Brad Pitt plus Angelina Jolie, you can reside in the luxurious Burning Shore Hotel which is among the Five Star Hotels in this place. Stiltz Hotel also has a very spectacular architectural appearance and at it you can’t fail to see the entire Wetland region. The hotel was delicately constructed on stilts to avoid damaging the environment. Nit to forget it is an ideal place for bird watchers.

Swakopmund Hotels –

The Burning Shore HotelBurning Shore Hotel is a fashionable hotel located in Long-beach in the middle of Walvis plus Swakopmund. Its strategic location offers privacy and the services offered in the elegant ambiance together with the diverse cuisines and wines are all first class.

Stiltz Hotel

Stiltz Hotel is located on the mouth of the beautiful River Swakop and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean plus the northern borders of the Namib Desert.

The Swakopmund Hotel

Swakopmund Hotel plus Entertainment Center is a big posh hotel constructed about the novel railway station of the town. The ambiance is elegant and the rooms are so comfortable. The hotel offers an endless list of services.

Brigadoon Guesthouse

Brigadoon Guesthouse is a luxurious and very welcoming guest house with incomparable services and customized attention. It is located adjacent to the heart of the beach.

Located on Africa’s west coast neighbored by Angola to the North and South Africa to the south, Namibia is a country in which you can drive over 100 kilometers without sighting at any town and this is due to its very low population.

Swakopmund is a real oasis in the Namib Desert that is situated between the dunes and the sea. Up to date, the German control is still robustly visible judging from the area’s architecture. Examples of this influence are Hotel Europahof and the ancient prison building.

Swakopmund is the most popular holiday destination in Namibia and it is quiet eventful especially during the Christmas season. Because of neighboring the frosty Atlantic Ocean, its water temperatures are moderately low and early in the morning, mist is usually seen. this mist usually persists the whole day and affects visibility of the road from Swakopmund to Walvis Bay. Swakopmund has dunes that are now and again changing color in addition to the boats that resemble those of the ‘Pirates on the Caribbean’ in the distant ocean.

There are a variety of hotels, luxurious apartments and holiday homes to offer travels accommodation in this region. The ancient station Building was beautifully renovated and now serves a s a five star Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment centre with restaurants, cinemas, a casino, and shops.

There are more than enough restaurants to cater for your feeding needs. Café Anton is popular for serving typical German Biscuits and Pastries while the Lighthouse Restaurant and Pub has a cozy outside area overlooking the ocean and viewing the sun set over the ocean is quiet a spectacular experience.

Naukluft Park located on the outskirts of Swakopmund is another exciting place. On acquiring an entry permit at the office of internal affairs at cost of N$40 (less than $4) per individual and N$10 for each vehicle, you will begin your adventure. Other than desert dunes; the park has major attractions like moon landscape with Welwitschia plants. Although not beautiful, these plants are attractive in their own way. Some are over 1000 years old. They are not tall plants but grow and remain close to the ground and are characterized with only two leaves that are tattered due to prolonged exposure to the environment weather conditions.

Dune 7 the highest sand-dune in the entire world is another must visit place in Swakopmund that most people who have visited Namibia have climbed. Located just 4 kilometers from Swakopmund and very near the Walvis Bay Airport; Dune 7 appears easy to climb when viewed from the bottom not until you begin sliding backwards as you strive to move forward. Other than climbing, there is sand boarding which involves you being taken to the top by a quad bike and you slide down to the bottom. Always remember to carry your sunscreen to avoid sun burns.

The officially spoken language in Namibia is English though Afrikaans, German and many more local languages are spoken. Its major currency of exchange is the Namibian dollar which is an equivalent to the South African Rand; so the during business transactions, the Rand is accepted. Visa and credit cards are majorly used in restaurants, hotels and other accommodation places.

Swakopmund is another attractive tourist destination Namibia offers that is located in the desert.

Sossusvlei is a key destination in the whole of Namibia with several dune monuments projecting as high as 325 meters from the ground. The star-shaped dunes are much looked for by photographers plus artists. They were formed as a result of powerful multi-directional winds and are most scenic when the Tsauchab River flowing in the west drains entirely into the vlei. The warm colors of the sand that vary between orange, maroon, apricot and red differ brightly with the vivid white surface of the big clan pans at their bottom. After heavy rains and the Tsauchab River over floods into the main pan, several flamingoes plus additional aquatic birds are seen in this region.

At the entrance of Sossusvlei is Sesriem Canyon where many centuries of severe erosion have curved a narrow gorge one kilometer long. The gorge sinks 30 to 40 meters below into pools that get refilled after heavy rains. The Canyon got its name from the era when the ancient pioneers ties 6 lengths of animal hides together so as to draw water from the several pools below. A visit to Sossusvlei will guarantee seeing Springbok plus Gemsbok the typical desert antelope. Although they are not limited to the Namib Desert or Namibia, they have adopted to withstand the very dry conditions in Southern Africa. They can survive several months without water as long as they have sufficient plants to eat.

They impulsively migrate to different places in search of fresh grasses that grow after the rains. The remaining time they opt to graze at night when the dry grass has thrice more moisture as it has during the day which is absorbed from the fog and dew or unsaturated air. They additionally dig up roots, bulbs plus tubers for water. In the good season, they feed on wild melons, plus other juicy fruits. Residing in the lodges in this area will allow you to learn more about the exceptional adaptations that the plants plus animals have made in order to survive in the terrible desert condition.

You will discover a diversity of accommodation facilities to make your choice from in our lodge section of Sossusvlei. Pleasure in the nature walks plus drives offered in Namib Naukluff as well as the stunning sunrises and sunsets over the Dunes.

An advantage of staying adjacent to the Sesriem Canyon Gate is that this being the only gate for the public to access the park, all traffic entering Sossusvlei goes through thus particular gate.

The Wilderness safari lodges have a divergent benefit over others in the area that they possess private entrance into this exciting park hence no need of going too far to reach the sites. These lodges include: Kulala Wilderness, Kulala Wilderness Camp and Sossusvlei Wilderness Camp. Further ahead you will come across the Wolwedans Dune Lodge which is popular for its scenic ambiance and good accommodation as well as outstanding services.

Keep in mind that booking in at Rhino Africa, will be more affordable than directly contacting the lodges because of our long good relationships with the various lodges in addition to our free financial-protection that offer our clients guaranteeing calmness as you book in for your holiday. Contact us today to book your dream accommodation in Namibia.

Sossusvlei Lodges -

Little Kulala Camp

Little Kulala Camp is situated in a private reserve on the rim on the Namib Naukluff Park. This outstanding luxurious lodge is a peaceful place rich in luxury as well as elegance in the middle of the stunning vastness of the Namib Desert plus Sossusvlei.

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Previously the Sossusvlei Mountain Lodge, the Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is an exceptional safari lodge popular for its private and comfortable accommodation. It is located at the mountain foot, overlooking the gorgeous Namib Desert.

Kulala Desert Lodge

The Kulala Desert Lodge is a cool oasis filled with luxury amid the harsh Namib Desert. Adobe holiday facilities and thatch look out into a wide emptiness. The wildlife well adapted to these conditions blend with the creepy terrain and the very old dunes to form a very relaxing and amazing experience.

Sossusvlei Wilderness Camp

The Sossusvlei Desert Lodge was curved on the face of a mountain and the view beyond unveils scenic desert plains. Nine lodges each having a private pool offer beautiful views. The primary lodge is the ideal retreat from the neighboring large desert.

Kulala Wilderness Camp

The Kulala Wilderness Lodge is quite a small luxurious and elegant facility in a private reserve near the Namib Naukluft Park and adjacent Sossusvlei.  This place will certainly give you a rejuvenating experience while on your holiday.

Kaokoland & Kunene

In the eastern part of the Skeleton coast Park is a very rough region that is among the most spectacular places -Kaokoland in Namibia. Pronounced as “Coco land”, the place has a gorgeous landscape with table Peak Mountains, plains scattered with rocks and hills shaped like cones, with a desert habiting giraffes, elephants plus rhinos. The area is also a haven of nomadic people of the Himba clan who migrate every season with their large herds of animals looking for grazing pastures; and this has been the trend for several centuries. The Kaokoland covers 49500 square kilometers and starts from River Haonib extending to Kunene. Some of the spectacular attractions in this place are the Ruacana Falls plus the Epupa Falls and the rapids found in Ondorusu plus Enyandi.

Although it isn’t easy to see wild animals; you will come across giraffes gemsbok, springbok, mountain zebras and the black face impalas. Namibia’s northern border trails the permanent River Kunene in an infertile area towards the stunning Skeleton Coast up to the Namib Desert. The Cinderella Waxbill plus the Rufous tailed palm thrust which are the most unseen birds in southern Africa stay in the tropical vegetation belt along river Kunene