Best Places to Visit in Namibia

From sheer barren plains to towering sand dunes, large river canyons, lively beach towns and exceptional wildlife, here is a list of the top things to do in Namibia.

As a relatively new country, which gained its independence in 1990, and one of the less densely populated countries in the world, Namibia doesn’t strike many as a tourist destination. When I told friends, colleagues and family I was heading to Namibia, the most common question I got in return was “Namibia, what are you going to do there”?

Well… The country is, in fact, huge and mostly desertic, but the landscapes are so different from one part to another that I do believe there are lots of things to see. Maybe not much to “do” as such, but road-tripping across such diverse scenery is in itself satisfying enough to spend at least a couple of weeks in the country! If you are not convinced, check out below the best places to visit in Namibia and the top highlights of a trip to Namibia!

ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

Making the African Safari a Dream Come True

Etosha National Park is the best place in Namibia to look for African wildlife. Despite the absence of Cape Buffalos, Etosha remains an excellent destination to spot the other four of the Big 5: lions, elephants, leopards, and one of the healthiest populations of black rhinoceroses in the world (about 300). With an area as large as 20,000 km², this semi-arid national park hosts a total of 114 species of mammals!

Thanks to the few waterholes accessible by car or directly on foot from campsites, spotting African wildlife is a lot easier than in any other National park in Southern Africa. During the dry season (June to October), animals gather in large numbers to drink around these waterholes, offering an incredible wildlife viewing opportunity for visitors.

In the wetter months (November to May), animals spread out across the large plains of the park and hide from the heat under the trees, making the search slightly harder. However, bird watchers will enjoy this period as many birds migrate to the park to breed.

The National Park is well-structured with good gravel roads, campsites, lodges, and secure spots to stop for picnics, as well as toilets. If you have your own car, you can visit Etosha on a Self-drive, but if you don’t, joining a 4×4 guided game drive would be best to see the wildlife.

HIGHLIGHT
The campsite Okaukuejo has 24-hour direct access to a secure area overlooking one of the most popular waterholes in the park. Head down any time of the day to see mostly zebras and impalas, but make sure to check it out at sunset when rhinos and lions often pop by as it gets dark!

SPITZKOPPE

Sleeping under the Stars in Africa

Within one of the oldest regions in the world, rising from a vast plateau, are the dramatic granite peaks of Sptizkoppe, an ancient volcano offering incredible climbing, camping, stargazing, and sunset and sunrise opportunities in Africa. Here, the landscapes have remained unchanged for more than 120 million years.

Spitzkoppe is the perfect place to get a taste of secluded Namibia with only a few tourists staying overnight. It is peaceful, untouched, yet erratic, and the best part is that you can safely sleep under the stars thanks to sparse vegetation, barely any game wildlife, and zero light pollution! The campsites are very basic, with no electricity or water, but you can expect to find flat areas surrounded by bushes where you can pitch your tent or park your car or van.

During the day, you can go bouldering but also hiking up to one of the more accessible granite mountains, walking to the “bushmen paradise” to find prehistoric paintings of rhinos, or simply chilling at the natural arch rock formation while waiting for one of the most beautiful sunsets in Africa.

HIGHLIGHTS
Climb the granite rocks near the rock pools with your mattress and sleeping bag. Find a small eroded area to settle for the night and fall asleep surrounded by silence and the millions of stars above you.

NAMIB-NAUKLUFT NATIONAL PARK

Running down sand dunes in Sossusvlei

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is outrageously remote but remains one of Namibia’s most popular tourist attractions. It is, in fact, home to the largest sand dunes in the world, as well as “Deadvlei”, one of Africa’s most iconic landmarks. If this name, Dune 45, Sossusvlei, and Sesriem, don’t ring a bell, I can bet they are already on your bucket list!

It is indeed within the Namib-Naukluft National Park that you’ll find, amongst others, the famous towering orange dunes overlooking lonely Acacia tree skeletons scattered across dried salt pans. These large dunes can be climbed, and despite the big effort it requires to get to the top, they offer unmissable views over the surrounding sea of sand and clay pans nestled within.

HIGHLIGHT
After a long and tiring climb to the top of the sand dunes “Big Daddy”, “Big Mama”, “Dune 45” or “Dune 7”, enjoy the views and then run down as fast as possible! Some are more than 300 m high.

SWAKOPMUND

Turning into an Adrenaline junky

Swakopmund is one of the most accessible coastal towns in Namibia. Established by German colonists at the end of the 18th century, near the British harbour of Walvis Bay, the city features colonial landmarks and attracts most of the international and local beachgoers thanks to a mild climate during the high season, which spans from December to January.

Right on the edge of the Namib Desert, it is the perfect destination to try out some of the best extreme activities across kilometres of sand dunes. If you are an adrenaline seeker and wish to add some fun activities to your Namibian tour, make sure to take a break for a couple of days in Swakopmund, and book yourself into a few hours to go sandboarding, quad biking, skydiving, kayaking with fur seals, or exploring the dunes with a 4×4.

HIGHLIGHT
Jump out of a plane 15,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and land in the oldest desert in the world.

SKELETON COAST

Driving through desolate landscapes

The Skeleton Coast, often referred to as the northern part of the Namib Desert, gets its name from the many marine mammal skeletons found on the beach due to whaling operations and seal hunts that took place until the mid-20th century.

The coast is also famous for its many shipwrecks stranded along the shoreline, revealing how dangerous the sea can be in this part of the world. Don’t expect to see many of them during your drive. Most shipwrecks are found in very remote places and, therefore, are hardly accessible. The shipwreck, The Zeila, is probably the main place to visit near Swakopmund.

What makes the Skeleton Coast so special and an absolute must-see in Namibia is its untouched beauty. It is wild and desolate. Sure, there aren’t many activities except driving through sheer barren plains, eerie moon-like landscapes and kilometre-long sandy beaches, but that is what makes the place so unique and epic!

HIGHLIGHT
Join a local guide for a day, and learn about local politics, history, weather, geology, etc., while driving along the salty roads of the Skeleton Coast.

CAPE CROSS

Visiting the largest Cape Seal colony in the world

Along the Skeleton Coast, about 130 kilometres north of Swakopmund, is the Cape Fur Seal Colony at Cape Cross. This erratic seascape, where the first colonists set foot in Namibia and proclaimed ownership of the land, is nowadays mostly known for hosting the largest seal colony in the world.

All year long, thousands of Cape Fur seals flock to this headland to feed on the rich nutrient water of the Benguela current. During the pups’ months, from November to February, you will see thousands of baby seals learning how to walk or taking their first swim. This is an incredible place to visit in Namibia if you love watching wildlife and observing animal behaviours, as well as taking close-up photographs of wild animals.

During your visit, don’t be surprised if you start smelling the colony kilometres away before seeing the animals. In fairness, you get used to the smell after a while, but for some people, it can be a real struggle. So, if you tend to feel nauseated or disgusted by strong odours, bring some mint or carry a perfume-scented tissue that you can keep under your nose during your visit. I found the car park to be particularly awful due to a few decomposing carcasses, but as soon as you reach the wooden walkway, it improves.

HIGHLIGHT
Taking lots of photographs of seals striking funny poses and watching seal pups running to their mother after recognising their call, despite the constant noisy hubbub!

FISH RIVER CANYON

Watching the sunset at the second-largest Canyon in the world

The Fish River, which is the longest interior river in Namibia, runs through the largest Canyon in Africa (and the second in the world) that shares its name for about 160 km. This Canyon formed within one of the oldest landscapes and rock formations in the world, where the rocks are 650 million years old, and is the greatest geological wonder of Namibia.

There are a few viewpoints and short walks along the Canyon rim. The most famous views over “Hell’s Corner,” where the river takes a serious 180° bend, are incredible; and if you don’t get caught, like us, in a sandstorm (…) you’ll have the chance to see the rocks’ colour change as the sun drops behind the horizon.

Another way to fully appreciate the wonders of the place is to follow the 4-day Fish River hiking trail. Only accessible from May to September, this hike requires a mandatory permit and some good autonomous hiking and camping skills, as there is no infrastructure along the way. You will need to carry all your gear and food for 86 km until you reach Ai-Ais, a beautiful resort near natural hot springs.

HIGHLIGHTS
Get to the Canyon at the end of the afternoon, walk along the rim and wait for the sunset with some refreshments of your choice at one of the dedicated viewpoints!

MAP | Top things to do in Namibia

Frequently asked questions

What is the Best time to visit Namibia?

If you’re interested in seeing wildlife, the best time to visit is between June and September, when temperatures are cooler and many animals gather around the few water sources. This is also a great time for birdwatching, as many migratory species are present.

If you want to explore Namibia’s deserts, the best time to visit is between April and October, when temperatures are more moderate and rainfall is less likely. During this time, you can see the famous sand dunes of Sossusvlei and visit other breathtaking landscapes, such as Damaraland and Kaokoland.

If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting Namibia outside of peak tourist season, which is between June and September. During the shoulder seasons (April-May and October-November), you’ll have the opportunity to explore the country with fewer crowds, and may also find better deals on accommodation and tours.

What is Namibia famous for?

Namibia is famous for its unique and diverse landscapes, including deserts, savannas, and coastlines, as well as its rich wildlife and cultural heritage. Some of the most notable things Namibia is famous for include the Namib Desert, Sossusvlei, Wildlife, its cultural heritage, Etosha National Park, and the Skeleton Coast.

Is Namibia a safe place to visit?

Yes, Namibia is considered a safe place to visit. The country has a low crime rate and a stable political situation. Plus, tourists are generally welcomed by the local population. However, as with any travel destination, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables secure, respect local customs, drive carefully, and always have valid travel insurance.

What are the best lodges in Namibia?

Namibia is home to many luxurious and comfortable lodges that offer breathtaking views and top-notch amenities to visitors. Some of the best lodges in Namibia include:

1. Gondwana Etosha Safari Lodge: This lodge is situated in the heart of Etosha National Park, offering stunning views of the park’s savannas and wildlife.
2. Wilderness Safaris Damaraland Camp: This camp is located in Twyfelfontein, within the rugged landscape of Damaraland and offers a unique and immersive experience for travellers.
3. Wilderness Safaris Kulala Desert Lodge: This lodge is located in Sesriem in the heart of the Namib Desert and offers luxury accommodations with breathtaking views of the desert dunes.
4. Desert Rhino Camp: This camp is located in the remote landscape of Damaraland and is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered black rhino.
5. Sossusvlei Lodge: This lodge is located near the famous Sossusvlei sand dunes and offers luxury accommodations and outdoor activities.

Join an Adventure tour

I visited these places during my 15-day Camping trip with G Adventures. I usually don’t join organised tours, but as a solo female traveller, I thought it would be an excellent way to discover Africa for the first time and get to meet fellow travellers. This was one of the best trips I’ve had the chance to take, and I don’t regret taking a tour!

I am currently preparing more content about Namibia, including my 15-day adventure tour and overall experience in the country. If you’d like to find out more about G Adventures or this tour, check out G Adventure website!

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About the Author

Jen is the Funder, Author & Photographer behind Talesfromthelens.com

Jen has lived for the past 15 years across Oceania and Ireland while also travelling in Latin America, North America, and Europe. She has visited more than 65 countries and set foot on every continent in the world! She is a coffee nerd, passionate about photography, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

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