Situated on the edge of two deserts, Namibia charms the traveler with dramatic scenery. There are more than enough popular nature hiking destinations in the country. In addition to wildlife, a tourist interested in culture can also get to know the millennia-old culture.

A classic of safari destinations

According to countryaah, Namibia is located in southern Africa, bordering Angola, Botswana, South Africa and Zambia. Located on the southwest corner of the continent, the country borders on the western edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

Namibia’s long and multi-stage history is still evident today. The country’s population is ethnically diverse and the influences of German colonization, for example, are particularly evident in the country’s capital, Windhoek. Namibia gained independence from South Africa in 1990.

The landscapes of Namibia are considered by many to be unparalleled and the country is especially known as a destination for safaris and nature trips. Namibia is home to several nature parks and protected areas, including Fisher River Canyon and the prestigious Etosha National Park.

In Namibia which is short for NA by abbreviationfinder, you can also learn about ancient cultures, for example in the petroglyphs of Twyfelfontein.

Heat and drought

Namibia has a predominantly hot and dry climate, with an average daytime temperature of 30 degrees. Indeed, there are two desert areas in the country: the Namib and Kalahari deserts.

The hot rainy season lasts from January to March. The driest, on the other hand, is from July to September. The most pleasant travel time is often between these periods. The best travel time for safari tourism is during the dry season from May to September.

A fabulous safari destination

Nature tourists thrive in Namibia, as the country is especially known for its magnificent safari destinations. There are several nature parks in the country, such as the deserted Namib-Naukluft National Park and the Waterberg National Park, known for its animals.

However, Namibia’s most famous natural park is Etosha National Park, which is over a hundred years old. The large park is one of the most important protected areas in Africa and a popular nature tourist destination.

A popular destination is also the 160-kilometer-long and up to 550-meter-deep Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world.

Getting to know Namibia and its natural wonders is advantageous for Finns.

The spectrum of cultures

Surrounded by mountains, the town of Windhoek is the center of Namibia – both geographically and culturally. Namibia is home to 11 ethnic groups whose cultural influences are reflected in the street scene in Windhoek. The special features of the cultures can be explored by visiting the National Museum of Namibia.

Those interested in history can also go hiking in the petroglyph area of ​​Twyfelfontein. The petroglyph area is one of Namibia’s most famous attractions, located in the Kunene region of northwestern Namibia. Among other things, the drawings depicting wild animals are thousands of years old. The area was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2007.

FLIGHTS, HOTELS AND MOVEMENT IN NAMIBIA

By plane to Windhoek

Most tourists arrive in the country via Hosea Kutako International Airport. The airport is located about 45 km east of Windhoek.

There are no direct flights from Finland to Namibia, but you can fly to the country via Frankfurt, for example. Round-trip flights usually cost just over 1,000 euros.

Accommodation in a hotel and tent

Tourists are offered a reasonable range of accommodation options of different levels, especially in the most popular tourist cities in Namibia. The level of infrastructure in the countryside is not high and finding a quality hotel can be challenging at times.

On safari trips, for example, in Etosha National Park, overnight stays take place in camps. Some of the camps can be used for lodging, while some are for camping. Accommodation in the National Parks area must be booked in advance.

By bus, train or plane

Getting around by bus is affordable in Namibia. Buses run especially between large cities and the capitals of neighboring countries. For example, Intercape Mainilener also offers trips to neighboring countries.

You can also explore Namibia with a rental car, for example. The country’s road network is in fairly good condition. However, when driving in an urban area, it is good to remember to keep the doors locked and use headlights even during the day. In rural areas, especially at dusk, special care must be taken, as wildlife may run down the road.

In Namibia, you can also travel by train. Trans-Namib Railways operates between major cities and stops along the way at numerous small stations. The Desert Express luxury train for tourists runs between the cities of Swakopmund and Windhoek.

Air Namibia offers many domestic flights. Cities in the route network include Tsumeb, Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Luderitz, Swakopmund, Oshakati and Ondangwa.

The capital is Windhoek

The Namibian capital, Windhoek, is located in the central part of the country. The city is still strongly influenced by German colonial rule. Signs of the stages of history can be seen especially in architecture, but also in food culture and language.

In Windhoek you can spend your time visiting various museums. The National Museum of Namibia is housed in Windhoek’s oldest building. Built in the 1890s, the house comprehensively displays material related to the country’s independence aspirations. Another place worth visiting is the Owela Museum, which provides access to Namibia’s natural history.

In addition to local delicacies, the capital also serves international food experiences for the hungry tourist. The most special restaurant is probably Joe´s Beer House, where you have the opportunity to taste some of the animals living in the nature parks. At least ostrich, zebra, antelope and crocodile are available.

Windhoek also has good shopping. There is a wealth of local crafts from leather goods to jewelery. Safari equipment is also easy to replenish in Windhoek’s malls.

Windhoek is a generally safe city. However, tourists are advised to avoid moving alone at night.

Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is the most famous nature park in Namibia which is short for NAM by abbreviationfinder. The specialty of the area is a large lake that fills with water during the rainy season and dries for most of the year into a sparkling salt desert.

There are dozens of drinking places in Etosha that are great places to play and photograph animals. The nature park is home to numerous species of animals from flamingos and other birds to elephants and giraffes. In the nature park you can also see a rare tapered lip rhino.

There are five camps in the park area. They offer accommodation options from luxury lodges to camping. In some camps you will also find other services such as restaurants. Accommodations should be booked in advance.

More information: Etosha National Park

Fisher River Canyon

Fisher River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world. It is also one of the most popular nature destinations in Namibia.

There is an 85-kilometer hiking trail in the canyon, which can be traversed during the winter months, from April to September. It takes about five days to hike the route and it is only recommended for those in good condition. It should be noted that you must register in advance when going to the park. In addition, hiking is only allowed in groups of at least three people, due to poor emergency rescue facilities.

The canyon can also be admired from the vantage points where you can enjoy a picnic. The most popular Lookout is about 10 miles from the main entrance to the park, Hobas. It offers incredible views of the canyon and Hell´s Bend, the most photographed spot in the area.

At the southern end of the canyon are the hot springs of Ai-Ais, whose 60-degree water is believed to have therapeutic effects. It is good for the tourist to note that the Ai-Ais area is closed during the summer months, ie from November to the end of February.

Swakopmund

Namibia’s largest coastal city, Swakopmund is a popular travel destination especially among adrenaline-hungry people. In addition to the sea, you can head to the nearby desert with a surfboard. You can also go downhill on the sand dunes and ride an ATV. Parachuting over the desert is also popular.

On the beaches, in addition to worshiping the sun, you can try a paraglider. If lounging in the sun is not attractive, you can also rent a canoe from the beach or go on a cruise to admire the dolphins.

Swapkopumud also offers sightseeing for those who want culture. German influences are very strongly visible in both the architecture and the food supply. History can be explored in the Maritime Museum and in the museum bearing the city’s name.

THE BEST OF NAMIBIA

Try these in Namibia

1. Photograph of wildlife in Etosha
2. Hike in Fisher River Canyon
3. Museum and shopping tour in Windhoek
4. Sand surfing in Swakopmund

Cons of Namibia

1. Remember vaccinations!
2. No direct flights from Finland