On the south-western Atlantic coast of the African sub-continent, between the countries of Angola and South Africa lies Namibia – Africa’s youngest independent country and a spectacular and diverse holiday destination, full of amazing natural wonders, traditional villages with glass huts, coastal, historic and ghost towns and warm, friendly locals.
The diversity of landscape and rugged barren beauty of the countryside, the charm of absolutely wild, desolate and uninhabited Skeleton Coast, boasting everything from roaring dunes to towering canyons and windswept plains and the excitement of exploring Etosha, one of Africa’s most alluring national parks teeming with unique wildlife are what make Namibia a nature lover’s haven with nearly one million visitors annually. Read on, to get acquainted with top 5 reasons why people choose this picture-perfect land of contrasts.
Wealth of Geological Phenomena
One of the reasons that makes Namibia a sought after tourist destination, is that the country is truly blessed with a rich diversity of geological phenomena. The world’s highest sand dunes of Sossusvlei, Organ Pipes and Petrified forest in Damaraland, Fish River Canyon – 2nd only in size to Grand Canyon, Giant’s Playground and rock art sites at Twyfelfontein, Sesriem Canyon and Arhem Cave and even more, all draw much attention and never cease to entice. Of special interest is also the Quivertree Forest, which has been declared a National Monument, famous for its quiver trees or ‘Kokerbooms’ that can reach a height of up to 9 meters.
Wide Cultural Diversity
If you have ever had the desire to meet a uniquely different culture, Namibia is the right choice. Here you’ll come face to face with different ethnic groups, lifestyles, annual colorful festivals and wondrous exhibitions, plus, diverse cultures, ranging from the pastoral Himba in northwest to the San in the east. The people of Namibia are justly known for their generous hospitality to foreigners, so never mind in socializing with these kind people and getting close to their lifestyle and customs. Do not miss out to go on a field trip with a farmer, and learn how to sow neat dresses with the Nama.
Abundant Wildlife
Namibia is home to twenty six exclusive parks and reserves, making its abundant wildlife one of the country’s greatest tourist assets. Easily accessible wilderness paradises such a as the Waterburg Plateau National Park, the Namib Rand Private Game Reserve and the Namib-Naukluft National Park to name but a three are the best spots to meet some of the endemic Namibian species that include Wild Dog, Oribi and Puku. Another fine way to see the wildlife is to plan guided Namibian safari or self-drive tours through the country. From rodents and reptiles to rhinos and raptors, there is more to the desert than meets the eye.
Uncrowded Conditions and Climate
Namibia is the second most lightly populated country in the world and a coveted destination ideal for those wishing to avoid the well-trodden tourist spots of crowded cities. Only two million people live in Namibia (with a land surface area of over 823,000 km2), around 2.5 people per square kilometers. Another reason why people so much appreciate Namibia is the country’s typical semi-desert weather with around 300 days of sunshine a year.
Photography
For fans of photography, Namibia offers superb opportunities with some of the most remarkable desert scenery on the planet, impressive freestanding granite mountains, interesting wildlife and this is just the beginning. For beginners, there are photography workshops and guided safaris, where they can hone their skills, returning home with really amazing photos to impress people back home!
So, welcome to Namibia, the ‘land of the wide open spaces,’ to have an exciting trip and an authentic experience, few countries on Earth can offer. The desolate beauty and the colors of Namibia truly need to be seen to be believed. People, who have already visited this majestic getaway, say that its extraordinary wildlife and perhaps most of all the majesty of its landscapes cast a lifelong spell on all who visit!
