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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
Ongava Tented Camp
Ongava Tented Camp, located along the southern edge of Etosha National Park in the private Ongava Game Reserve, is a premier safari destination. Featuring a blend of stone, canvas, and thatch, the camp offers an intimate experience with accommodation for just 16 guests in elegant Meru-style tents.
The camp provides excellent game viewing and guided safari drives, immersing guests in the stunning wilderness of the reserve. Ongava is one of Etosha's top lodges, offering luxury, exclusivity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters for a remarkable safari experience.
Reverie Kalahari Pod
Located in Namibia's stunning Kalahari Desert, Reverie Kalahari Pod offers a luxurious, tranquil, and adventurous stay. Perched above the desert, it provides sweeping views of golden dunes and vivid blue skies.
Designed with comfort and exclusivity in mind, Reverie Kalahari Pod ensures a truly personalised experience. Whether you're seeking an escape to reconnect with nature or longing for thrilling wildlife encounters, this retreat caters to every aspect of your stay.
Ti Melen Boutique Guesthouse
Located in the serene Windhoek region, Ti Melen Boutique Guesthouse offers a tranquil haven in Namibia's vibrant landscape. Surrounded by lush gardens and stunning views, it combines luxury with an intimate, comfortable retreat.
With its warm atmosphere and personalised service, Ti Melen offers the perfect escape to relax and enjoy this unique destination. Every stay at Ti Melen Boutique Guesthouse creates lasting memories in the heart of Namibia's stunning landscape.
Zannier Hotels Omaanda
Set in Namibia's stunning Windhoek region, Zannier Hotels Omaanda offers a luxurious escape that combines comfort with wild beauty. Surrounded by a private 9,000-hectare reserve, this retreat lets guests experience Africa's wildlife and wake up to a new adventure every day.
From thrilling safari excursions guided by expert rangers to relaxing evenings under star-filled skies, every moment at Omaanda is crafted to delight and inspire. At Zannier Omaanda, the wonders of Namibia become your front-row experience.
Camp Sossus
Nestled in the heart of the Namib Desert, Camp Sossus offers an unforgettable escape into one of the world's most breathtaking and remote landscapes. This exclusive Camp combines luxury with sustainability, providing guests with a chance to connect with nature while enjoying modern comforts.
During your stay at Camp Sossus, immerse yourself in the unique beauty of the Namib Desert. Explore its stunning vistas through guided activities such as nature walks, scenic drives, or stargazing under impossibly clear night skies.
Fish River Lodge
Nestled on the dramatic edge of the world's second-largest canyon, The Fish River Lodge offers a truly unforgettable Namibian escape. Located in the heart of the Fish River Canyon region, the lodge combines breathtaking natural beauty with exceptional comfort.
With panoramic views and minimalist architecture that blends into the rugged landscape, it invites guests to connect with nature in serene elegance. Its location is ideal for exploring one of Southern Africa's most remarkable geological wonders.
Elegant Desert Camp
Nestled in the heart of the Namib Desert, Elegant Desert Camp offers a unique retreat where untouched landscapes meet unparalleled luxury. Surrounded by golden dunes stretching to the horizon, this camp blends comfort with nature's raw beauty. Each stay is tailored to immerse guests in the serene desert oasis, whether you seek thrilling adventures or quiet moments beneath the starlit African sky. Elegant Desert Camp offers unforgettable experiences, from exploring the iconic Sossusvlei dunes to witnessing breathtaking sunsets. The stylish accommodations blend modern comforts with desert tranquillity, while exceptional dining highlights local flavours to delight your palate.Ohorongo Safari Lodge
Nestled in the heart of Namibia's breathtaking Damaraland region, Ohorongo Safari Lodge offers an unparalleled escape into Africa's wild beauty. Surrounded by unspoiled landscapes, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife, the lodge is an oasis of luxury and adventure.
From elephant tracking to night-time stargazing under Namibia's clear skies, every moment is crafted to create memories that will last a lifetime. At Ohorongo Safari Lodge, each day brings a new opportunity to discover the magic of Damaraland.