
Namib Naukluft National Park
Namib Naukluft National Park stretches up the west coast of Namibia and is home to some of the world's rarest and weirdest plant and animal species. It is a truly spectacular destination that offers up so much, from the cold Atlantic Ocean, massive dunes, remote mountain ranges, all the way through excellent desert wildlife and birdlife.
It is exceptionally hard to visit Namibia and not come in contact with some part of the Namib Naukluft National Park.
Namib Naukluft Park Facts
- Size & Location: 50 000km²
- When to visit the park: Year-round, winter being best
- Rainfall: Erratic, 63mm per annum, varying
- Altitude: Sea level to 2 000m above sea level
- Location: Entire west coast of Namibia stretching inland
- Accommodation: Namib Desert Lodges
Information On Namib Naukluft Park
The park's main attractions are Sossusvlei, Sandwich Harbour and the Naukluft hiking and four-wheel drive trails. The Namib Naukluft is one attraction that should not be missed.
Desert mammals include three species of elephant shrew, desert golden mole, dune hairy-footed gerbil, black-backed jackal, bat-eared fox, African wild cat, spotted hyena, brown hyena and springbok. Mountain mammals include baboon, leopard, cheetah, mountain zebra, gemsbok Oryx, rock hyrax, kudu, and klipspringer.
The reptile residents are fascinating and include lizards, barking geckos, crickets, spiders and snakes such as Peringuey's Adder. By night the nocturnal creatures include mongoose, squirrel and Cape hares.
Birdlife is in abundance in the park (for a desert). Mountain birds include black eagle preying mainly on the rock hyrax. The coastal section includes breeding populations of jackass penguins, terns, cormorants, flamingos (13,000) and white pelicans. The gravel plains support high breeding concentrations of lappet-faced vulture, greater kestrel, Gray's lark, while in the dune sea to the south resides the endemic dune lark. On the escarpment (Naukluft region), the endemic Herero chat can be found, as well as black eagles and rosy-faced lovebirds.
Sandwich harbour is the breeding ground for large numbers of fish, and the birds are attracted by the large numbers of young fish trapped in the shallow waters by the outgoing tide.
Where is Namib Naukluft Park located?
In a nutshell, the entire west coast of Namibia is part and parcel of the Namib Naukluft National Park, while the Sperrgebiet and Skeleton Coast both fall under the Namib Naukluft.
For a birds-eye view of the approximate location of the Namib, click the following Google Map link; Google Maps - Namib-Naukluft National Park
Best Time to Visit Namib Naukluft Park?
Winter is the preferred season for travelling through the Namib-Naukluft as summers are extremely hot by any standard worldwide. There is nothing quite like being slapped in the face as one steps out of an air-conditioned vehicle by 45-degree celsius heat.
In winter, the days are mild, and the evenings are cool, while in summer, the days are long, they are hot, and it does not cool down much in the evenings.
Main Attractions Of Namib Naukluft Park
- Gain a true desert experience
- Come face to face with prehistoric Welwitschia plants
- Tracking the small desert creatures and observing their adaptation patterns
- Hiking the world's largest and brightest coloured dunes at Sossusvlei
- Spectacular desert scenery
- Incredible dunes
- Amazing mountains
- Wild and remote
- Olive Grove Guesthouse
TThe Olive Grove Guesthouse in Windhoek is a stylish retreat in a quiet suburb, close to the city center. It offers a perfect mix of comfort and convenience, with free Wi-Fi and a relaxing swimming pool and outdoor area.
Its location is ideal, just a short walk from the renowned Joe's Beer Garden, making it perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and convenience. Olive Grove is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape with amenities that guarantee a memorable stay in Windhoek.
- Wolwedans Boulders Camp
Nestled deep within the breathtaking NamibRand Nature Reserve, Wolwedans Boulders Camp is a sanctuary of tranquillity and luxury. Surrounded by the dramatic beauty of giant granite boulders and endless desert plains, the camp offers guests an exclusive opportunity to connect with the untamed wilderness.
Boulders Camp is the perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. With only a few carefully designed tents, the camp offers unmatched privacy, ideal for escaping the ordinary. Guests can enjoy guided walks, scenic drives, and serene moments in the stunning desert.
- 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.
- Desert Horse Inn
Desert Horse Inn is a spectacular base for exploring the captivating southern Namib Desert. It offers the perfect gateway for a day trip to Lüderitz, the iconic ghost town of Kolmanskop, or the rare chance to spot the elusive desert horses.
Whether you choose to embark on thrilling mountain biking and walking excursions or simply soak in the serene beauty of this unique desert landscape, this destination promises an unforgettable experience. Discover an extraordinary side of the Namib that will leave you in awe.
- Etosha King Nehale
Located on the edge of Etosha National Park, Etosha King Nehale Lodge offers a memorable escape into Namibia's stunning wildlife and landscapes. Overlooking plains and waterholes visited by majestic animals, this Lodge combines tranquillity and adventure, perfect for a honeymoon or getaway.
Blending modern luxury with traditional Namibian design, the Lodge features spacious suites with all the comforts for a relaxing stay. Each suite immerses guests in the surrounding beauty with private plunge pools and décor inspired by the region's rich culture.
- 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.