Although I'm an adventurer, there are countless adventures out there that I have yet to do. That's why I have connected with peer intrepid travelers, writers, and photographers to highlight travel tips and adventures all around the world. One of the top African destinations that I haven't explored, but want to so very badly is Namibia. To showcase four adventures that we all must do in Namibia, I have asked THE very adventurous, Mike from 197travelstamps.com to lend a hand.
Thank you Mike for 4 Adventures You Must Do in Namibia!
#1 – Hike up Dune 45 in Sossusvlei
The characteristic red dunes of Sossusvlei in Southern Namibia are one of the most photographed motives in Africa. But if you do make it here, after a long, strenuous drive from the capital Windhoek, you will be rewarded with much more than just a supreme photo opportunity. The road to Sossusvlei is lined with impressive looking sand mountains. One of them stands out from the crowds: Dune 45 – one of the highest dunes in the area with an altitude of over 80 m (240 feet).
The hike up the steep dune through the soft sand and the strong winds of the Namib Desert is hard and tiring but you will be rewarded with an incredible view once you’ve reached the top. Make sure to bring some lip balm as your lips may get dry from the strong winds. The way back down is much easier and if you feel extra adventurous, you can slide down on the steep side of the dune.
#2 – Self-Drive on the endless gravel roads of Namibia
Namibia is a huge country with a very low population density. Due to the low traffic and the long distances, only around 15% of Namibia’s roads are paved. It is here where you can experience real adventures. Rent your own car and self-drive through the diverse landscapes of the Namib Desert. The scenery along the roads in Southern Namibia is just spectacular.
Every couple of minutes, the landscape changes from mountain passes to dry grasslands and red sand dunes. You are free to stop your car whenever you want to take a break or a photograph – there is no traffic other than you. Here, you are absolutely free.
#3 – Meet the wildlife in Etosha National Park
In contrast to the arid landscapes of the Namib Desert in the south of Namibia, the Etosha National Park in the north is full of life. Self-driving through the national park is an absolutely memorable experience and one of Namibia’s top adventures. The wildlife here includes Rhinos, Lions, Zebra, Giraffes, Gemsbok, Springbok, Wildebeest, Elephants, Jackals, and others. Make sure to stay inside your car at all times while driving through the park – lions are fast and rhinos are not as cute as they are in cartoons.
For the perfect wildlife experience, visit one of the three rest camps inside the park after sunset: All rest areas feature a watering hole outside the fence that is lit with floodlights. Here you can watch the animals gather, drink and fight all night long.
# 4 – Go camping (or glamping) in the desert and gaze at the starlit sky
The vast uninhabited landscapes make Namibia so unique and different from most other countries. Driving here during daytime with nobody else around is an incredible experience. But to really experience the emptiness and vastness of the desert, you should spend at least one night in one of the campsites in the desert. Apart from the sounds of the wind, there is nothing here. Just absolute peace. As soon as the sun sets, millions of bright stars appear in the night sky. On a clear night, you can even see the Milky Way.
Even if basic camping isn’t quite the option for you, you can find a wide range of dreamy glamping opportunities or even more luxurious lodges and cabins to choose from.
**Post contributed by Mike of 197travelstamps.com, who is on a quest to visit every country on the planet. He is currently on #104.**
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