Roaming with The Plucky Life
Namibia: Unveiling a Laid-Back Land of Dramatic Delights
Namibia whispers adventure. From the towering dunes of the Namib Desert to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park, this southwestern African country is a haven for nature lovers, relaxation seekers, and anyone with a thirst for exploration (and maybe a sundowner or two).
So, ditch the crowds and embrace the easygoing pace of Namibia. Here's our top 10 list to inspire your next laid-back adventure:
Our Plucky Life Top 10:
Find below our top 10 list for things to do in Namibia. The first time here was actually Bridget, as she launched an orphanage in Windoek! We later returned as a family on a camping trip!
1. Etosha National Park:
Where Wildlife Roams Free
- Location: Northwestern Namibia
- Tours: Numerous private and group safari tours are available, ranging from budget-friendly camping adventures to luxurious lodge experiences. Prices start around $150 per day. FIND HERE
- Travel Tips: Pre-book your accommodation, especially during peak season. Consider a self-drive safari for a more personalized experience, but be sure to research park regulations beforehand.
- The Deal: Witness Namibia's incredible wildlife tapestry - elephants lumbering across the plains, graceful zebras grazing in the golden light, and lions lazing in the midday sun. Etosha offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa, all set against a stunning backdrop.
2. Sossusvlei
Where Sand Dunes Kiss the Sky
- Location: Namib Desert National Park
- Tours: Guided tours are available for sunrise or sunset experiences, offering unique perspectives on the dunes. Prices start around $50 per person. FIND HERE
- Travel Tips: The dunes get scorching hot during the day, so plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon. Remember, climbing those dunes is a workout - bring plenty of water and wear proper shoes.
- The Deal: Witness the otherworldly beauty of Sossusvlei. Climb the iconic Big Daddy dune for breathtaking panoramic views, or be dwarfed by the towering Deadvlei, a stark landscape of petrified trees set against a backdrop of fiery orange dunes.
3. Skeleton Coast
A Shipwreck Safari Through Time
- Location: Northwestern Namibia
- Tours: 4x4 tours with experienced guides are the best way to explore the Skeleton Coast. Prices start around $200 per day. 4x4 FIND HERE & Seal tours HERE
- Travel Tips: The Skeleton Coast is a remote and rugged area. Pack accordingly and be prepared for anything. Permits are required to access certain sections, so plan your trip in advance.
- The Deal: Embark on a historical adventure along the Skeleton Coast, a shoreline littered with the remnants of shipwrecks claimed by the unforgiving Atlantic Ocean. Explore abandoned whaling stations, marvel at the stark beauty of the landscape, and keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins and seals.
4. Swakopmund
A Quirky Coastal Gem
- Location: Erongo Region, Namibia's west coast
- Tours: Various adventure tours are available, including sandboarding, kayaking, and dolphin-watching excursions. Prices vary depending on the activity. FIND HERE
- Travel Tips: Swakopmund offers a delightful mix of German colonial architecture and a relaxed beach vibe. It's a great base for exploring the surrounding desert and coastline.
- The Deal: Take a break from the sand and unwind in Swakopmund. Stroll along the charming Mole promenade, indulge in fresh seafood at a harborside restaurant, or try your hand at sandboarding down towering dunes.
5. Fish River Canyon
Hike into Namibia's Majesty
- Location: South Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
- Tours: Guided hiking tours are available for various lengths & difficulty levels. Prices start around $100 per day. Permits required for overnight hikes. FIND HERE
- Travel Tips: The Fish River Canyon is best explored during the cooler months (April to September). Be sure to book your permits and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season. We traveled with young kids (pictured) and camped!
- The Deal: Hike through the majestic Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. Explore its dramatic landscapes, spot unique desert birds, and soak in the tranquility of this remote wilderness.
6. Namib Desert
- Location: Covers a large part of western Namibia
- Tours: Numerous tours are available, ranging from stargazing excursions to multi-day desert safaris. Prices vary depending on the activity & duration. FIND HERE
- Travel Tips: The Namib Desert is a vast and unforgiving environment. Respect the power of nature, pack essentials like sunscreen and a hat, and always let someone know your travel plans.
- The Deal: Feel the vastness of the Namib Desert. Explore its diverse landscapes, from towering dunes to ancient rock formations. At night,
7. Damaraland
- Location: Northwestern Namibia
- Tours: Guided 4x4 tours are the best way to explore Damaraland's rugged terrain and spot desert-adapted wildlife. Prices start around $150 per day. FIND HERE
- Travel Tips: Damaraland is known for its scorching temperatures, so pack accordingly and stay hydrated. Sturdy shoes are essential for exploring the rocky landscapes.
- The Deal: Explore the fascinating landscapes of Damaraland. Marvel at the ancient rock paintings of Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Track elusive desert-adapted animals like black rhinos and desert elephants, and be captivated by the stark beauty of this unique region.
8. Spitzkoppe
Namibia's Matterhorn
- Location: Erongo Region, central Namibia
- Tours: from Swakopmund SEE HERE
- Travel Tips: Permits are required to climb Spitzkoppe. The climb is moderately challenging and not recommended for those with a fear of heights.
- The Deal: Hike or climb Spitzkoppe, a solitary granite peak nicknamed the "Matterhorn of Namibia." Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding plains, explore ancient rock paintings, and witness the dramatic play of light and shadow on the granite peak.
9. Kaokoland
Off the Beaten Path Adventure
- Location: Northwestern Namibia, bordering Angola
- Tours: Guided tours are essential for exploring Kaokoland's remote wilderness. Prices start around $250 per day due to the logistics of accessing this region. Tour - 3 Day Himba visit
- Travel Tips: Kaokoland is a culturally rich region with limited facilities. Respect local customs and traditions, and be prepared for a true off-the-grid experience.
- The Deal: Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Kaokoland, a land of towering mountains, vast plains, waterfalls, and unique cultures. Interact with the semi-nomadic Himba people, known for their elaborate body decorations, and explore a region where time seems to stand still.
10. Windhoek
Namibia's Capital City Charm
- Location: Central Namibia
- Tours: City & Township Tour
- Travel Tips: Windhoek is a great starting point for exploring Namibia. Take advantage of its cafes, restaurants, and shops to stock up on supplies and gear.
- The Deal: Spend a day or two exploring Windhoek, Namibia's vibrant capital city. Immerse yourself in the city's German colonial history at Alte Feste, browse local crafts at the vibrant Wernhil Park Craft Market, and enjoy a delicious meal at a cozy cafe.
Great "GIVE Back" opportunity
Before our family had ever road tripped through Namibia, camping along the Fish River canyon, exploring wildlife, and making memories... Bridget traveled there, leading a team of people to serve! They helped build an orphanage, loved on the less fortunate, and brought love and empowerment to those living in and around Winhoek, Namibia. Namibia holds great opportunities to not only see a beautiful country, but bring encouragement to its resilient people as well!
Over the past 20 years we have worked with many NGO's, churches, and volunteer organizations as we have traveled. As you plan a trip to Namibia, if you are wanting to take some of your time to volunteer, here are a few we recommend!