If you hunger for an African adventure with a touch of luxury, then head to Namibia where an ancient desert and some of the planet’s most incredible wildlife await.
The vast nation covers a landmass almost the same size as France and Germany combined, but has a population of around 2.5 million – about half the number that live in Sydney. Seen on a map, it takes the appearance of a deep saucepan, the thin handle of the Caprivi Strip in the north-east stretching towards Victoria Falls. On the ground, you can cook up a host of adventures, from spotting wild animals at watering holes, to watching waves on the far-flung fringes of the Namib Desert.
Namib Desert and Skeleton Coast
The Namib kisses the Atlantic Ocean for an astonishing 2,000 kilometres, and in the language of the local Nama people translates as ‘vast’ – a fitting description for this immense stretch of dusty mountains and coastal dunes. Amongst its many features is a graveyard of shipwrecks half buried by dunes at the heart of the Skeleton Coast National Park.
Damaraland
But what can you see if you journey inland? There are rare, desert-adapted lions and elephants that live among the red-rock mountains of Damaraland, home to petrified forests, ancient lava flows and thousands of rock art engravings. You can join an experienced guide and go in search of endangered black rhinos, or watch in awe as the sun sets the sacred Brandberg Mountain aflame at the end of the day.
Etosha National Park
Established in 1907, Etosha National Park is one of Namibia’s most elite attractions. It’s where animals congregate around waterholes in abundance, and the chalky white mud shimmers like a mirage under a cloudless sky. Go on an exclusive game drive to seek out cheetahs, blue wildebeest, black-faced impalas and leopards on the prowl. Or follow the course of the shallow Hoanib river to watch giraffes feeding on bright green salvadora leaves and long-horned oryx grazing on ana pods fallen from acacia trees.
Nomadic Life
An encounter with the Himba people, one of the last nomadic tribes of Africa, is a memorable experience. While they eke out a simple life in dung-covered huts, the wealth of their traditions remains in their intricate body and hair ornamentations.
A holiday to this intriguing country promises beauty wherever you go, from soaking up the sounds and scents of the desert with a gin and tonic at your luxury accommodation, to a flight over arid river beds painted yellow and ochre, or catching a view of the camel thorn trees with their seed pods like human ears.
To discover the splendour of Namibia on a tailored itinerary, contact Caroline today. As your personal travel advisor, she will design a travel experience that will stay with you forever. Call 1300 767 237 or email caroline@luxurybound.com.au.
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