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Best Places To Go In Namibia

Best places to go in Namibia Sossusvlei Etosha Fish River Canyon Skeleton Coast Kolmanskop top 10

Discover Namibia’s Most Breathtaking Safari Destinations and Unique Desert Landscapes

The Uyaphi team has compiled a list of the top Namibian destinations, which most safari itineraries would include.

Namibia is different from most African safari destinations. Instead of lush green forests or open savannas, Namibia's primary attraction is vast, open deserts interspersed with canyons, mountain ranges, and oasis.

The light quality is so clear that you have to check whether you have stumbled into some Imax experience. The same effect strikes you when you look at the night stars.

We have compiled a Top 10 list, and in no particular order they are:

Kolmanskop

Kolmanskop Namibia ghost town diamond mining German colonial sand dunes Lüderitz eerie abandoned buildings

Originally, a prime diamond mining destination and once populated by wealthy German Diamond miners. Now that the diamonds are all gone and the land has no financial value, it is an eerie ghost-town, offering only the rugged remnants of the town that once was. Located a few kilometres from the coastal town of Lüderitz.

Twyfelfontein

Twyfelfontein Damaraland Namibia UNESCO rock engravings 6000 years San Bushmen ancient largest Africa

In the Damaraland region, this area contains one of the largest groupings of rock engravings in Africa (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Most of which were made over 6,000 years ago by its ancient inhabitants. Archaic in design, they were crafted with stones and tell the stories and history of those times. The area is also well known for its scenery and desert Rhino populations.

Skeleton Coast

Skeleton Coast Namibia ship graveyard north coast Cape fur seals desert lion brown hyena eerie remote

Off the north coast of Namibia, this area is a ship graveyard due to the harsh winds and wild waters which punish ill-prepared Mariners. One of the more remote regions of Namibia, it offers the sights of eerie abandoned ships, deserts landscapes, black-backed jackal, brown hyena, Cape fur seals and (if you are very, very lucky in the far north) Desert Lions.

Caprivi Strip

Caprivi Strip Namibia Okavango River wildlife Cuando Kwando Chobe rivers unfenced game reserve lush

Featuring an area with an incredible amount of rainfall, the Caprivi strip has a wide variety of wildlife. Animals gather to drink in the lush, clean water of the Okavango River. It is currently a reserve with no fences, so tread carefully.

Spitzkoppe

Spitzkoppe Namibia granite inselberg rock formations volcanic Matterhorn Africa Windhoek Swakopmund road

A beautiful area that hosts a gathering of granite rocks created by volcanoes thousands of years ago. Spitzkoppe is located not far from the main road between Windhoek and Swakopmund and is definitely worth the stopover to see and photograph these spectacular rock formations.

Swakopmund

Swakopmund Namibia coastal town German colonial architecture Atlantic Ocean adventure activities beach

Namibia's most popular coastal town, featuring an extensive beachfront. It's the prime holiday destination for Namibian residents; to take in the sun and enjoy the warm Atlantic waters (in summer).

Cape Cross

Cape Cross Namibia largest Cape fur seal colony world November December breeding Atlantic Ocean Skeleton Coast

This location is host to the largest gathering of Cape Fur seals in the world. They gather every year to breed around November and December. When they are all gathered together, it is a sight to behold.

Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei Namibia Namib Desert red orange dunes Dead Vlei dawn sunrise most photographed Africa

A desert landscape that is vibrantly coloured by the sun at various times of the day. The colours and textures are gorgeous, but be warned; it can get extremely hot! Sossusvlei is included in almost every safari itinerary, and for a good reason. Simply spectacular.

Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon Namibia second largest canyon world 160km long 27km wide 550m deep hiking hot springs

The second-largest canyon in the world (behind the Grand Canyon in America), this canyon is immense. With a gigantic river at its bottom, it offers travellers a long, beautiful experience. Sights, sounds, walks, hot springs, and sunsets all set the stage for a destination that is guaranteed to take your breath away.

Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park Namibia 22000km² salt pan Big Five black rhino endemic waterhole game viewing

Etosha National Park is the premier location for a safari experience in Namibia. It features a wide variety of wildlife and beautiful surroundings. This is the place to go to experience the animals of Namibia.

Top 10 Best Places to visit in Namibia by Uyaphi.com

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Map of Lodges in and around Namibia

Lodges And Camps In Namibia

Zannier Hotels Sonop

Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of the Namib Desert, Zannier Hotels Sonop offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and natural beauty. Perched on granite boulders, immerses guests in the serenity of the desert landscape while providing world-class comfort and service. The lodge takes you back to the 1920s with its elegant design and attention to detail. Whether relaxing in luxurious tents, enjoying gourmet dining, or stargazing under the desert sky, every moment at Zannier Hotels Sonop promises an unforgettable experience.

Zambezi Queen Houseboat

The Zambezi Queen is a unique and luxurious Chobe River houseboat, offering an experience unlike typical lodges in the area. With two- or three-day cruise options, this elegant vessel glides along the river for an intimate, immersive journey. The Zambezi Queen offers unmatched comfort and stunning river views teeming with wildlife. This unique experience blends adventure and indulgence, perfect for those seeking something extraordinary.

Canyon Village

Set at the base of a stunning rock face in Gondwana Canyon Park, Canyon Village is a charming retreat. With 42 Cape-Dutch style chalets and a thatched restaurant, it’s a top Fish River destination, just 20 kilometres from the iconic Canyon. The stunning scenery and friendly staff create a relaxing, memorable experience. With its natural beauty and thoughtful design, Canyon Village is perfect for travellers seeking tranquillity and unforgettable rugged views.

Onguma Forest Camp

On the edge of Etosha National Park, Onguma Forest Camp is perfect for an unforgettable honeymoon. Blending luxury and natural beauty, it offers couples a serene setting to relax and reconnect. The spacious, elegant accommodations ensure comfort and privacy, while panoramic wilderness views create a magical atmosphere. At Onguma Forest Camp, every moment is immersed in the wonders of nature. Wake up to the soft sounds of the forest, enjoy romantic sunsets over the savannah, and marvel at the vibrant wildlife that calls this region home.

Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge

Nestled in Namibia's stunning Kalahari Desert, Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge offers an unforgettable safari experience. The lodge combines adventure and comfort, letting guests explore red sand dunes, golden savannahs, and vibrant wildlife. Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge is the perfect base for exploring the Kalahari Desert. Enjoy guided game drives; nature walks, or peaceful sundowner excursions to see wildlife like springboks, oryx, and birds of prey up close.

Toshari Lodge

Nestled amidst the breathtaking wilderness of Namibia, Toshari Lodge offers the perfect gateway to the iconic Etosha National Park. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and welcoming charm, the lodge provides a comfortable and convenient base for your safari adventures. Designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, Toshari Lodge boasts cosy accommodations, refreshing pools, and delightful dining experiences that celebrate local flavours. Guests can unwind in peaceful comfort after a day of thrilling wildlife encounters, spotting elephants, lions, and the rare black rhino within Etosha's vast plains.

Desert Whisper

Set in the stunning Namib Desert, Desert Whisper offers a unique escape into solitude and serenity. Surrounded by endless dunes and open skies, this luxury, private and exclusive-use Villa lets guests enjoy nature's raw beauty in complete comfort. Designed to blend harmoniously with its Gondwana Namib environment, Desert Whisper provides an exclusive oasis that feels both intimate and expansive, perfect for those seeking a unique and unforgettable getaway.

Chobe Princesses Houseboats

An unforgettable safari experience unlike any other awaits aboard the three luxurious "Chobe Princess." These exceptional houseboats offer a unique way to immerse yourself in the breathtaking wildlife of the Chobe River. Imagine spotting majestic elephants, graceful antelope, and countless bird species right from the comfort of the boat's deck or venturing out on expertly guided game drives for an even closer encounter with nature.