Travel Namibia Summer 2025/26

WELCOME TO NAMIBIA TRAVEL WELL

TRAVEL SAFE

CLIMATE AWARENESS

• Hot days, cold nights pack light clothes and warm layers.

• Hydrate regularly desert conditions can dehydrate quickly.

• Always use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

ROAD SAFETY

• Drive on the left.

• Gravel roads require slow, careful driving.

• Avoid driving at night-wildlife is often active.

• Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and carry a spare tire and fuel.

PERSONAL SAFETY

• Keep valuables out of sight, especially in urban areas.

• Avoid isolated areas at night.

• Respect local customs and traditions.

• Ask permission before photographing people.

Only use accommodation and shuttle services registered with the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB)

• All lodges, guesthouses, and transport providers must have valid NTB registration.

• You have the right to request proof of registration.

• Look for the official NTB certificate at reception or ask your shuttle driver to show registration.

• When unsure, check or report with NTB

WILDLIFE SAFETY

• Do not feed or approach wild animals.

• Remain inside vehicles in game parks.

• Store food safely when camping and follow park rules.

HEALTH & EMERGENCIES

• Travel insurance is essential.

• Take malaria precautions when visiting the north.

• All-round emergency: 10111 or 999 or 112 and MVA National Accident Response: 9682

GENERAL TRAVEL TIPS

• Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD) – equal to South African Rand (ZAR).

• Language: English is official; local languages and Afrikaans are widely spoken.

• Help us protect Namibia’s beauty – leave only footprints.

City of Windhoek police

Emergency services: (24hr) 061 211 111

Crime prevention: Windhoek city

+264 (0) 61 290 2239 +264 (0) 61 290 2018

Toll-free number: +264 (0) 61 302 302

Ambulance: 10177

Fire Brigade: 998

Med Rescue

+264 (61) 249777

+264 (61) 230 505/6/7

Emergency Rescue 24 084 124

Lifeline 086 132 2322

Crisis Response

+264 81 881 8181

+264 61 303 395

is published by Venture Media in Windhoek, Namibia www.thisisnamibia.com

Tel: +264 81 285 7450, 5 Conradie Street, Windhoek PO Box 21593, Windhoek, Namibia

EDITOR Elzanne McCulloch elzanne@venture.com.na

PUBLIC RELATIONS Elzanne McCulloch elzanne@venture.com.na

PRODUCTION & LAYOUT Liza Lottering liza@venture.com.na

CUSTOMER SERVICE Bonn Nortjé bonn@venture.com.na

TEXT CONTRIBUTORS

Elzanne McCulloch, Pompie Burger, Madeleen Duvenhage, Anja Denker, Ron Swilling, Christine Hugo, Delia Magg-Thesenvitz

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Suné van Wyk, Pompie Burger, Elzanne McCulloch, Anja Denker, York Duvenhage, Jason Nott, Ron Swilling, Carla Oosthuizen, David Geoffrion, Scientific Society Swakopmund, Ghosttown Tours, Gabi Schneider, Helmuth Syvertsen, Stephan Brückner

Travel Namibia is published quarterly, distributed worldwide via Zinio digital newsstand and in physical format in southern Africa. The editorial content of TN is contributed by the Venture Media team, freelance writers and journalists. It is the sole property of the publisher and no part of the magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

All information and travel details are correct at the time of going to press. Due to uncertain circumstances, this may have changed after the date of publication. Please check businesses' individual websites for up-to-date details.

T R O W , S H A R E

Y O U R

Venture Media is the pioneer of Namibia tourism promotion. We are the leader in spreading the tourism word around the world. We distribute accurate, credible, up to date and regular tourism-related information on paper, in social media, on the World Wide Web, and on mobile apps. We have reached hundreds of thousands over three decades. Be part of our community and let’s do it together.

Y W I T H U S I N 2 0 2 1

We focus on telling and sharing STORIES THAT MATTER across our various magazines and digital platforms. Join the journey and share your stories with audiences that understand and value why certain things matter.

Why ethical business, conservation, tourism, people and communities matter. How these elements interrelate and how we can bring about change, contribute to the world and support each other. Whether for an entire nation, an industry, a community, or even just an individual.

WWW.VENTURE.COM.NA or email us at info@venture.com.na for a curated proposal

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Come on an audio adventure with us as we bring our favourite travel stories to life, inviting you to listen, dream, and fall in love with the magic of Namibia.

CONTENTS

CIRCLES OF CONNECTION p24

An intimate reflection on empathy and belonging through cultural tourism in Namibia

SHIPWRECKED. FOUND. p38

Discovering Shipwreck Lodge & The Skeleton Coast

KGALAGADI p56

A place of timeless sands and endless skies – right on Namibia’s doorstep!

HOPE AS A VERB p66

A vision of renewal in the Namib Desert, where sustainability, community, and hope take root in real time.

THE STONEMEN OF NAMIBIA

| Mystery and meaning rise from the desert sands of Kaokoland.

Ondili provides premium lodges and tented camps in Namibia’s stunning regions, along with boutique guesthouses in Windhoek and Swakopmund. Explore our private nature reserves and adjacent national parks for awe-inspiring vistas and remarkable wildlife encounters.

Reservations

Ondili c/o Namibia Travel Consultants

Tel: +264 61 240 020

Mail: reservations@namibiatravelconsultants.com

P.O. Box 23106, Windhoek, Namibia

Head Office | Sales Office Africa

Ondili Lodge Management (Pty) Ltd

Tel: +264 61 447 300 Mail: info@ondili.com P.O. Box 90819, Windhoek, Namibia

Sales Office Europe

Ondili GmbH

Tel: +49 6103 44041 00

Mail: sales@ondili.com Otto-Hahn-Str. 31-33, 63303 Dreieich, Germany

Why Tourism Matters for Namibia

There is something quietly profound about tourism in Namibia. It’s not just an industry, nor merely a sector that fills hotel beds and airline seats. It’s a living thread woven through our identity as a nation – connecting people to place, opportunity to possibility, and story to storyteller. When visitors travel across our wide horizons, they don’t only explore the landscapes. They engage with a spirit that defines us: freedom.

That freedom – to move, to create, to dream – is the very essence of Namibia. And nowhere is it more visible than in how tourism breathes life into our communities. From the remote outposts of Kaokoland to the coastal bustle of Swakopmund, every guest who sets foot on our soil contributes to livelihoods, to dignity, and to hope. Tourism is one of the few industries that truly reaches every corner of the country. It builds small enterprises, sustains guides, drivers, artists, chefs, pilots, photographers, and lodge staff. Each visitor dollar spent echoes through an entire ecosystem of Namibian lives.

But its impact goes deeper than economics. Tourism preserves culture. It reminds us of the value of who we are and where we come from. When a visitor listens to a San storyteller under a canopy of stars, or tastes kapana in Windhoek, or learns the name of a Himba village in the Kunene, they’re not just experiencing Namibia – they’re helping to keep traditions alive. They remind us that our stories matter. That our sense of place has meaning in the world.

And of course, tourism is inseparable from conservation – a pillar of our national pride. Namibia was the first African country to enshrine environmental protection in its Constitution. Through national parks, communal conservancies, and private reserves, tourism provides a tangible incentive for keeping our wild spaces wild. It transforms wildlife from a threatened resource into a shared asset. Every guest who visits these places indirectly supports anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and the livelihoods of those who protect these spaces. The footprints of travellers, when guided with care, can indeed help preserve the very ground they walk upon.

Tourism also represents a possibility. It is an open door – one that leads not only to employment but to entrepreneurship, innovation, and empowerment. In a country where freedom is both legacy and promise, tourism gives Namibians the chance to tell their own stories, on their own terms, and to invite the world to listen.

As Namibia stands on the threshold of new growth, the future of tourism feels bright – but it will take stewardship, creativity, and unity to guide it. Tourism matters because it reflects who we are: resilient, welcoming, proud, and endlessly inspired by the land we call home.

When travellers arrive here, they discover Namibia. When we invest in tourism, we rediscover ourselves – our ingenuity, our generosity, our shared purpose. Every visitor who journeys across our horizons helps write a new chapter in the story of this nation.

To all those who have dedicated their lives to sharing our natural beauty and spirit with the world – guides and hosts, pilots and planners, dreamers and doers – thank you. You are Namibia’s welcome, and through you, the world sees who we are.

Image: Elzanne McCulloch

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@elzanne_mcculloch ON THE COVER

Voices of Tourism

Tourism shapes how the world sees Namibia – and how Namibians see themselves. It is an industry built on collaboration, creativity, and care, driving opportunity across communities and showcasing the country’s natural beauty and spirit to the world. We asked leaders from across the sector to share why tourism matters and what it means for Namibia’s growth and identity.

“Tourism matters because travelling changes and enhances peoples lives and perspective.”

– Ally Karaerua, Chairman of FENATA (Federation of Namibian Tourism Association)

Tourism matters because it connects people, planet, and purpose. It empowers communities, protects wildlife, and reminds us that Namibia is good for the soul, a place where every journey helps nature and humanity thrive together.

– Rob Moffett, Ongava Game Reserve

Tourism matters because it connects people, not just through travel but through shared experiences, culture, and opportunity. It is the heartbeat of Namibia’s economy and a bridge that keeps our communities thriving. Every journey creates a ripple, supporting families, inspiring pride, and reminding us that together we are stronger. Tourism is not just about movement; it is about meaning.

Nerine Uys, CEO of FlyNamibia

Tourism is a very competitive global industry, with all destinations vying for the status of most desirable destination. A lot of effort, time, and money go into marketing tourism products and the industry in general each year. Across traditional and social media platforms, there is increasing hype around the best visual captures of destinations, the most exciting activities, and the most fun-filled experiences a destination can offer. This has helped put Namibia on the map as a strong competitor in the global tourism arena.

What I have realised in recent times is that while attracting paying travellers to Namibia creates valuable foreign currency earnings and employment opportunities for Namibians, the true value of tourism lies in the experiences visitors have and share during and after their stay. More often than not, visitors to Namibia rate our country as second to none in terms of landscapes, diversity of offerings, and the peaceful coexistence of people and wildlife. Yet, their strongest reflection is on the feeling they have as soon as they set foot on Namibian soil.

More and more, we hear even from well-travelled individuals that while other destinations offer comparable attractions and experiences, it is the feeling of “having arrived” they get when entering Namibia that sets it apart. It is through the eyes of foreign visitors that we as Namibians are reminded to look at and appreciate our motherland anew. The soulful, comforting feeling that Namibia gives to visitors as a place of arrival is something we Namibians are fortunate to call home. This contributes to national pride and should encourage all Namibians to build on the Namibian House and continue to live and promote Brand Namibia as the place to be and to cherish.

“Tourism in Namibia means jobs, conservation, and retaining our cultural heritage by sharing it with others.”

Namibia has some of the most unique selling propositions in the world as a travel destination, especially for adventure seekers and well-travelled explorers who have already seen much of the world. Namibia still offers something truly different, the feeling of freedom and adventure that so many travellers seek. This is what makes Namibia special. It is about the people, and on top of that, the extraordinary wildlife.

From my perspective, Namibia still has enormous potential to grow, both in terms of geographical spread and seasonal diversity. These are aspects we have been focusing on for many years. But beyond that, I believe Namibia can grow further by strengthening collaborations with our neighbouring countries. We already cooperate within the KAZA region and the Cape, but I see strong potential in partnerships with Angola, especially along the coast.

Growth can therefore happen within Namibia’s own diverse regions and experiences, as well as through cross-border combinations with neighbouring destinations. This approach also allows us to leverage existing flight connections in neighbouring countries while developing new routes to Namibia. In other words, we do not have to wait for new direct connections; we can already make use of regional flight links that connect us to international markets.

MatthiasLemck

Tourism matters deeply to our country and our economy. It brings a vital influx of foreign currency and creates jobs at every level, from entry-level positions to highly skilled management roles. This is an aspect we must continue to prioritise and strengthen.

It is also important to recognise that the European markets I look after are extremely diverse. We cannot treat Europe as a single market; we are dealing with 17 to 20 individual markets, each with its own preferences, demands, and expectations. Yet across all of them, the appeal of Namibia’s unique selling points remains consistent: the vast open spaces, the freedom, the rich cultural heritage, the sense of adventure, and the incredible wildlife.

And when you combine all of that with Namibia’s safety, excellent infrastructure, and ease of travel, you get something truly rare. No other country in Africa offers quite the same combination.

Tourism matters because it empowers economies, creates lasting livelihoods, and transforms lives. Few industries match its resilience, its ability to multiply impact, and its open doors to those with no qualifications, offering everyone the chance to grow, contribute, and shape the future. Tourism can transform Namibia.

– Tristan Cowley, Managing Director, Ultimate Safaris

BUSH TELEGRAPH

News from the tourism industry

LÜDERITZ: THE WORLD’S SPEED WINDSURFING CAPITAL

Each year, Lüderitz in southern Namibia becomes the global stage for the fastest windsurfers on the planet. From 3 to 30 November 2025, the Lüderitz Speed Challenge once again attracted world and national champions to compete for new records in this unique stretch of wind and water.

Few realise that Namibia features year after year in the Guinness World Records not for the Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei or the ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, but for speed windsurfing.

National records have been set here by competitors from more than 25 countries, including Austria, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, South Africa, the United Kingdom and, of course, Namibia itself.

To date, over 150 national and more than 20 world records have been achieved in Lüderitz, a remarkable testament to Namibia’s wind, landscape and the spirit of adventure that defines this place.

AFRICA’S COMMITMENT TO CONSERVATION: SAFEGUARDING NATURE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

On 22 September 2025 in New York City, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, delivered a speech at the Africa Keystone Protected Area Partnership Reception hosted by the ICCF African Wildlife Foundation.

The President mentioned that Africa has always been at the forefront of protecting nature, not just for today but for future generations. She highlighted that in Namibia, more than 46% of the land is under conservation, through national parks, community conservancies, forests, and tourism concessions. She stressed that conservation and development are not in conflict but complement each other, bringing jobs, income, and dignity to communities living alongside wildlife.

The President further emphasised that without protected areas, Africa risks losing not only its wildlife but also the ecosystems that sustain millions of people, support agriculture, and drive rural economies. Therefore, the Africa Keystone Protected Area Partnership is absolutely vital because it unites governments, communities, donors, and NGOs in a shared commitment to safeguarding the continent’s natural heritage.

She concluded by stating that the time to act is now. With Africa’s population and development rapidly increasing, decisive steps must be taken to ensure that future generations inherit a continent rich in life, opportunity, and hope. Nandi-Ndaitwah underscored that the sustainable use of biodiversity is central to achieving this vision.

NTB OPENS NEW REGIONAL OFFICES

The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) took a major step towards decentralising tourism services with the opening of three new regional offices in Rundu, Ongwediva and Lüderitz. Officially launched on 1 September 2025, the offices have brought NTB services closer to communities across the country.

NTB spokesperson Flora Quest described the expansion as a “milestone for the tourism industry,” noting that each office serves as a hub of support and opportunity for tourism entrepreneurs, community projects and undiscovered attractions. CEO Sebulon Chicalu explained that the initiative reflected NTB’s commitment to making services more accessible and responsive to local needs, truly “taking tourism to the people.”

The Rundu office focuses on the Northeast Corridor, community-based projects, river experiences and the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area; Ongwediva promotes partnerships across the northern regions; and Lüderitz showcases the South Coast’s mining history and geological attractions. The new offices offer a range of services including operator licensing, compliance, business support and destination marketing.

NTB invited tourism stakeholders, entrepreneurs and the public to engage with their nearest regional office and be part of this new chapter for Namibian tourism.

SHIPWRECK LODGE HONOURED WITH TWO MICHELIN KEYS

Shipwreck Lodge offers a quiet yet striking tribute to the shipwrecks of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast. Recently honoured with two Michelin Keys, it has joined the ranks of the world’s most exceptional places to stay – a remarkable recognition for a lodge so beautifully remote and resolutely Namibian.

The Michelin Key distinction represents a new global benchmark for hospitality, awarded to properties that deliver experiences defined by authenticity, character, and excellence. Earning two Keys signals an exceptional stay – a place where every element, from architecture to atmosphere, connects guests to something far greater than comfort. It is a celebration of harmony between design and destination, where luxury is measured not by opulence, but by meaning and sense of place.

For Shipwreck Lodge, this accolade affirms that true world-class hospitality can exist at the edge of the world. It honours the vision and craft behind creating an experience that is as soulful as it is sophisticated – where isolation becomes inspiration, and the wilderness itself becomes part of the story. In receiving two Michelin Keys, Shipwreck Lodge has not only elevated its own standing, but also placed Namibia firmly on the global map of exceptional, experience-driven travel. Read more about Shipwreck on page 38. TN

The Stonemen OF NAMIBIA

RON SWILLING Photographs JASON NOTT

Kaokoland, one of the last desert wildernesses on the planet, is a vast expanse where desert elephants follow the underground rivers like highways, where free-roaming desert lions lie in the shade of tamarisk trees and where crystal-clear constellations span the sky like nowhere else on Earth. Here, in the remote north-western corner of Namibia, the soul of the land throbs with a rhythm that is raw and real.

This is the home of the semi-nomadic, desert-dwelling Himba, who live on the land with grace and tenacity, their homesteads, crafted from clay and dung, dotting the rugged landscape. Red with ochre, they blend seamlessly into the dusty landscape. Kaokoland’s children, Earth’s people.

Off the tourist routes, there are fewer travellers. The roads are rough and the climate forbidding. Intrepid adventurers seeking more than the popular destinations ply the gravel roads, camping out or staying in the few lodges, experiencing the unusual beauty this part of the world holds.

A creative testament and response to the arid land, they radiate life, movement and character in rock. They speak to and about the earth.

Over the last decade, a new attraction has emerged in the Kaokoland environs – men made of stone! A creative testament and response to the arid land, they radiate life, movement and character in rock. They speak to and about the earth.

It is not known how many Stonemen there are or the identity of their enigmatic creator. Their mystery hovers alluringly, adding to their desert magic. They appear randomly in the landscape, a figure sitting in the shade of a shepherd’s tree, climbing up a rocky ridge, crawling on the ground, sitting on a koppie contemplating life.

The Stonemen of Kaokoland have become a drawcard for 4x4 groups, bikers and individual travellers, who are now incorporating finding and visiting the Stonemen on their routes or are designing their tours around searching for them in a uniquely Namibian treasure hunt. Their day is complete when they spot a Stoneman striding over the rocks with purpose, a knapsack over his shoulder, or a Stoneman hanging precariously from the rocks. The Stonemen feature with increasing regularity in articles, travel blogs and on various social media platforms, their popularity growing day by day.

Some new information about them has recently emerged, increasing their appeal and creating ripples of excitement through the country and in traveller circles. There has been a rumour circulating, floating on the breeze and gaining momentum. And this is it: Some people have said to have spotted the Stonemen all together deep in discussion. It is believed that these “Lonemen of Kaokoland”, as they have previously been called, have more of a purpose than what initially meets the eye, and that they are emissaries of light, expounding a message of conservation for Kaokoland and for our planet.

They were observed sitting in a circle at a secret site in the vast Kaokoland expanse, each having a turn to speak, voicing concerns and offering possible solutions to environmental issues, while the other Stonemen listened. They spoke about the long drought in the country, the underground aquifers that were drying up, the many animals – domestic and wild – that had perished, about respect for both people and wildlife, about travelling lightly and of being mindful of utilising Earth’s resources wisely and sparingly.

They are said to have sat the entire day and night, as Scorpio chased Orion across the heavens, and had eventually come to a unanimous agreement on what needs to be done to solve the plight of both Kaokoland and the Earth. And, they concluded that it all boils down to us. Each one of us can make a difference, no matter how small. Whether it is saving a few drops of water, picking up a piece of litter, being kind to a stranger or not driving offroad, we can all change the world step by step. And it all begins with LOVE.

As the story goes, the next time the Stonemen were observed, they were back in their original sites as if nothing had happened. As if this earthshattering and gravity-defying momentous occasion never took place. As if the stationary

stone figures had not defied the laws of physics and travelled to a remote destination for a meeting of untold significance. They were back in their original poses – sitting, climbing, contemplating, crawling – giving no clue that they had participated in one of the most important gatherings in the region. Was it perhaps a dream, an illusion, a fable? Did the gathering actually take place? Did the Stonemen crawl, stride and run to gather on our behalf? Did they galvanise to send us a message?

It seems so. And it seems that not only did they defy their sedentary natures, but they defied time and space. And we are left in awe and wonder to take heed of their message and to ponder about the incredible mysteries of the universe. The truth that appears at the edge of our existence in the hazy realms that flicker just out of our eyesight, where reality and mystery merge, where matter and spirituality blend – and the magic in between. TN

Experience Freedom

The moment you turn the ignition, the adventure begins. The engine hums beneath you, the open road stretches endlessly ahead, and the golden Namibian horizon seems to stretch forever. In this vast, untamed land, freedom is not just a feeling: it’s a way of life. Here, every kilometre reveals something new, every stop is an invitation to linger, and every sunset turns the landscape into poetry in motion. Namibia is a country that whispers to your sense of wonder, calling you to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and experience life on your own terms.

From the rolling dunes of Sossusvlei to the wild Atlantic coastline, from the wildlife-rich savannahs to the remote valleys of Kaokoveld, Namibia is a country of incredible diversity. Its landscapes are seemingly endless and ancient: a playground for those who crave adventure and ample space to breathe. Beneath the starry night sky, the desert feels infinite, and the quiet murmur of nature reminds you that this journey is yours alone.

your car will make it. There’s room for all your luggage and camping gear, freedom to explore without limits, and the confidence to take on Namibia’s varied terrain. Adventure and comfort need not be mutually exclusive. The right vehicle lets you embrace both.

GOARID: YOUR LOCAL FRIEND ON THE ROAD

Travel should be simple, and a self-drive adventure should feel effortless. That’s why goArid was created; to make renting the perfect car in Namibia straightforward, reliable, and worry-free.

You are your own guide, making decisions, learning from the journey, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

We partner with trusted local rental companies and take care of the search, comparison, and communication, saving you time and ensuring peace of mind. Our clear options and flexible payment methodsincluding all major cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and AMEX - allow you to book in your own currency without extra fees.

SELF-DRIVE: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WAY TO EXPLORE

There are many ways to see Namibia: a group tour, a private guided trip, but nothing compares to the freedom of a selfdrive adventure. With a self-drive tour, the journey is yours to shape and determine. You decide when to rise with the sun, when to pause at a viewpoint so different from your everyday; and when to wander off the beaten path to uncover hidden gems. Every route tells its own narrative, and every detour beckons adventure.

Self-driving invites more than travel: it invites selfactualisation. You are your own guide, making decisions, learning from the journey, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s the thrill of navigating a gravel road through rugged terrain, the joy of spotting wildlife from your own car, or the simple pleasure of stopping wherever beauty catches your eye, Namibia on your own terms is an experience unlike any other.

THE RIGHT VEHICLE UNLOCKS TRUE FREEDOM

To experience Namibia fully, the right car is essential. Many of the country’s iconic destinations - from the towering dunes of Sossusvlei to the remote corners of Kaokoveld - are accessible only by 4x4. These vehicles provide higher ground clearance, better traction, and stability across sandy tracks, gravel roads, and riverbeds, ensuring your journey is both safe and comfortable.

A 4x4 also gives you peace of mind. With a reliable vehicle, you can focus on the adventure, not the worry of whether

We go further than just booking. Think of us as your local friend on the road: sharing tips, recommendations, and personal insights to help you uncover hidden places and make the most of your journey. Even while travelling, our team is available to support you, ensuring your focus stays on adventure, not logistics.

CREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Namibia is a country best explored and discovered unrushed. To stop where the landscape calls you, to marvel at wildlife without rush, to experience the joy of total independence; that is the beauty of a self-drive tour. Every kilometre uncovers something new, every night under the vast starry sky deepens your connection to this extraordinary land, and every day spent on your own schedule reminds you that the journey itself is as meaningful as the destination.

Whether you are seeking the thrill of discovery, the quiet of nature, or the joy of creating new memories with friends or family, we provide the tools, support, and freedom to make it happen.

Experience Freedom. Create your own adventure with goArid. Discover Namibia your way.

Turn the key to freedom – contact goArid and find the perfect 4x4 for your self-drive adventure through Namibia. TN

CIRCLES OF CONNECTION

An intimate reflection on empathy and belonging through cultural tourism in Namibia

ELZANNE MCCULLOCH

There’s a stillness in Namibia’s far north that feels almost sacred – a silence so vast it hums in your ears. Out here, the land is stripped down to its essence: mountains and sand, wind and sky, a river threading through the desert like a green whisper of life.

I’ve come to this place on the banks of the Kunene River to visit Wilderness’ Serra Cafema, a lodge perched at the edge of nowhere. It’s a journey to one of the most remote corners of the country, where Angola lies just across the water and the rest of the world feels very far away.

Flying in with Wilderness Air, the landscape stretches endlessly beneath the little Cessna 210. The desert shifts from gold to bronze to deep ochre, textured like the skin of an elephant. With every ripple of dune and every dry riverbed, my anticipation builds. It’s been years since I’ve travelled this far into the northwestern hinterlands, and as I watch the endless wilderness pass beneath me, I am once again struck by awe – that there are people who live here, and have lived here for millennia.

From above, I start to notice them – the circles. Dark outlines against pale sand. Animal kraals built by the nomadic Himba who still call this land home. Each circle a signature of human existence. Proof of life in the loneliest of landscapes.

When we land, the heat presses close. From the airstrip, I’m whisked off to my first activity – a cultural visit to a Himba village.

This is not a staged performance, nor a constructed show for tourists. It’s real life. Messy, beautiful, challenging, joyful. The people who live here laugh, struggle, love, and die here. Entire lifetimes unfold against the ochre mountains of Hartmann’s Valley – to me, the most beautiful place on earth. For a fleeting second, I catch myself wondering why I don’t live here too.

Then I remember my purpose – to learn, to connect, to understand what makes cultural tourism meaningful, sustainable, and human.

A PARTNERSHIP WITH PURPOSE

Through partnerships such as the one between Wilderness and the Marienfluss Conservancy, tourism directly contributes to improving the wellbeing of Himba families. Employment at the lodge offers stable income in an otherwise remote region, while tourism revenue supports access to clean water, education, and healthcare. A mobile medical clinic regularly serves the surrounding villages, and ongoing nutritional and educational programmes respond to needs identified by the community itself. In this way, every guest visit becomes part of a living cycle of support – helping to preserve both the fragile wilderness and the cultural heritage of the people who call it home.

That, I realise, is what cultural tourism is at its best – not performance, but exchange. It’s about being present, about meeting halfway. About laughter shared across language barriers, and the simple recognition that, at our core, we are more alike than we are different.

CIRCLES OF LEARNING

My guide, Stephanus, helps me bridge the language gap as we sit with the villagers in a wide circle. I ask whether they like having tourists visit. The answer comes quickly – laughter and a chorus of “yes, yes!” They tell me they love meeting interesting people from faraway places. “Especially those who come to laugh with us,” says Kowego.

Stephanus has me introduce myself, and they repeat my name, rolling it around on their tongues, smiling as they test the sounds. Then it’s my turn. Nine names spoken one after the other, and I repeat each, stumbling here and there, earning claps and laughter for my efforts. Being Namibian gives me a slight advantage, I know the rhythm of the sounds, the warmth behind the smiles.

Children tumble through the sand around us – curious, mischievous, just like my two boys at home. They wrestle, build imaginary worlds, and carry babies smaller than themselves on their backs with a competence that startles me. It takes a village, they say. And here, it truly does.

A circle forms again – this time for singing and dancing. It isn’t a show for me. It’s simply life, unfolding on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Their hands clap in rhythm, the songs build, the children’s laughter rises. The sound seeps under my skin until I feel it in my bones. Joy. Pure and unfiltered.

They tell me that the only thing they dislike is when visitors look unhappy to be there. “We are so happy when people come,” they explain through Stephanus. “We want them to laugh with us, not to look uncomfortable or sad.”

That, I realise, is what cultural tourism is at its best – not performance, but exchange. It’s about being present, about meeting halfway.

BEAUTY IN THE EVERYDAY

The women are radiant in their ochre skin and traditional adornments – animal skin headdresses, beads, skirts which were once made from goat or cattle skin but are now colourful shweshwe cloth probably purchased on a visit to Opuwo. Little trickles of modernity sneaking in. I tell them how beautiful they are, and they laugh, saying they think I’m more beautiful. I laugh too – isn’t that the essence of human nature? We’re all fascinated by what is different, drawn to what feels unfamiliar.

I ask to photograph them, and they agree eagerly, but their excitement peaks when they see the images afterwards. Their laughter fills the air as they crowd around the camera. I immediately decide that once I am back in Windhoek, I will print the photographs and bind them into a small album, sending it back on the next Wilderness Air flight to Serra Cafema – a circle completed.

CIRCLES OF HOME

Everything here seems to move in circles. The huts are circular, the kraals are circular, and when they sit together to talk or share a meal, they form a circle. It’s the simplest, most perfect shape – inclusive, unbroken, eternal.

Inside one of the huts, I’m shown their traditional perfuming ritual – a fragrant mixture of herbs, including Commiphora wildii , smouldering in a small wooden vessel. The aromatic smoke drifts through the air, perfuming skin, garments, and blankets. It’s both cleansing and comforting – a ritual of identity and belonging.

The children’s curiosity is boundless. They tug at my wide-leg pants, lift the hem of my T-shirt to peek underneath, giggle and scatter. Human nature again – curiosity, unfiltered and free.

I ask why they choose to live here, on this barren stretch of sand hemmed by mountains. The answer is simple: this is home. “Many years ago, there was good grass,” one woman tells Stephanus. “Now it’s harder, but this is still our home.”

Stephanus tells us about a himba man who had gone on a trip to Opuwo, where he was robbed on the first day. “That’s no way to live,” he had told him with quiet conviction. And I can’t help but agree.

Down by the river, they grow small vegetable gardens, a fragile oasis in an arid land. Babies are born here, raised under open skies, learning the rhythm of the earth before they can even walk. The circle of life turns, as it always has, and I find myself reflecting on how the problems that consume us elsewhere seem almost laughable here. In this place, life is stripped back to its essentials – family, water, shelter, belonging.

THE VALUE OF CULTURAL TOURISM

Many of the men from this community work at Wilderness’ Serra Cafema lodge nearby. The partnership provides access to clean water, support, and a reliable income. It’s a model of cultural tourism done right – one rooted in respect, collaboration, and shared benefit.

Because when tourism is done with care, it can be a lifeline. It celebrates identity instead of eroding it. It builds bridges between worlds that might never otherwise touch. It ensures that the value of a place – and its people – extends beyond the postcard image, into the realm of genuine human connection.

Cultural tourism, I’ve come to believe, is a kind of homecoming. Not only for the traveller seeking meaning, but for the hosts who see their own culture reflected back through new eyes. It reminds us that despite the divides of language, geography, and privilege, we all exist within the same circle – the human one.

Because when tourism is done with care, it can be a lifeline. It celebrates identity instead of eroding it. It builds bridges between worlds that might never otherwise touch.

It’s easy, in the modern world, to forget that. To let cynicism and constant noise drown out our sense of wonder. But sitting cross-legged in a Himba village, clapping along to a rhythm that has likely echoed across this valley for hundreds of years, I feel something old and true stirring in me. TN

CULTURAL TOURISM FROM JOHN KASAONA’S PERSPECTIVE

As a Himba person, I believe that cultural tourism is a process in which individuals from different tribes or countries plan visits to the Himba community. This interest often stems from a desire to understand why we have maintained our traditions despite the rapidly changing dynamics of the world. People want to learn about our culture, our way of life, and our methods of survival. They are particularly curious about how we sustain our livelihoods through livestock in harsh environments and how we interact with nature.

When it comes to our culture, visitors often seek insights into our cultural artifacts, such as household items, calabashes, perfumes, and wooden pillows. Additionally, they may be interested in our marriage practices, the use of Holy Fire, and the various cultural hierarchies present within our families.

Overall, the Himba community is generally open to sharing our way of life with others. A key component of this exchange is the respect and appreciation from visitors, who are granted access to the private aspects of Ovahimba life. Ultimately, what we desire most is to be recognised and valued in our own unique ways.

It is essential to recognise the rights and dignity of minority groups, such as the Himba, whose culture is often exploited and misrepresented by visitors and dominant groups. The production of misleading and, in many cases, inappropriate documentaries about the Himba people needs to be investigated and halted. We believe that our culture must be preserved, and this can only be achieved through proper regulation.

Namibia: where conservation meets courage

A look at the 2024 National Report on Wildlife Protection, celebrating Namibia’s successes and understanding the needs for the future of conservation

MADELEEN DUVENHAGE

It’s early morning in Spitzkoppe. The granite peaks rise like ancient sentinels from the plains, catching the first golden light of the Namibian sun. The silence is vast, broken only by the crunch of gravel underfoot and the distant call of a hornbill. While most visitors come here for the solitude, stargazing and sculpted desert landscapes, fewer realise they are stepping into one of the most determined conservation efforts on the African continent.

Just a decade ago, Namibia was facing a wildlife crisis. Rhinos were being slaughtered at an alarming rate. Ninety-nine carcasses were found in 2015 alone. Elephant poaching spiked shortly after, and pangolins, elusive and enigmatic, were vanishing into illegal trafficking routes. Even Namibia’s succulents, slow-growing plants sculpted by time and climate, were being stolen to supply black market collectors abroad.

Faced with this onslaught, Namibia did not look away. It responded with a seriousness and structure that now serves as a model for other nations. The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, alongside the Namibian Police and Prosecutor General’s Office, created a multi-agency response that went far beyond enforcement. Wildlife intelligence units were established. Data collection was transformed. Helicopters, K9 units and SMART monitoring technology became part of daily patrols. In August 2024, the country inaugurated a regional Environmental Court in Otjiwarongo to fast-track prosecutions and build expertise in wildlife crime cases.

What makes Namibia's approach remarkable is not only the action. It lies in the transparency. The 2024 National Report on Wildlife Protection does not just celebrate success. It critically examines where improvements are still needed. It looks at ten years of data and presents it with a transparency and analytical depth that many other nations have yet to achieve. This includes hard questions. Where are the bottlenecks? Why do some court cases take years to reach trial? What must change?

The report also recognises the importance of integration. It highlights collaboration between government, NGOs, communities, private landowners and international development partners. Where others talk about working together, Namibia is delivering it. The Blue Rhino Task Team and other on-the-ground actors are evidence of what is possible when planning, implementation and accountability

truly align. It is, quite simply, a case study in how things should be done.

And the results speak for themselves. Though problems persist, rhino poaching is no longer on an upward spiral. Elephant losses have dropped into single digits. Pangolin trafficking, while still a challenge, is being met with increased seizures and prosecutions. Live plant thefts are also gaining attention, reminding us that conservation extends far beyond iconic mammals.

For visitors, this progress is not hidden behind closed doors. It is woven into the travel experience. In community conservancies, you can join rangers on a rhino-tracking walk, learn from locals about traditional plant use, or stay at lodges that fund anti-poaching work directly. Etosha National Park remains a highlight, but so too are the lesser-known reserves, from the Naukluft’s rugged escarpments to the ephemeral rivers of the northwest where desert elephants roam.

A sundowner at Spitzkoppe takes on new meaning when you understand what lies behind the tranquillity. Those boulders have stood still for millions of years. The country around them is in motion, driven by a deep, collective commitment to protect what is irreplaceable.

When planning your next journey, choose Namibia not only for its spectacular beauty but for its bold conservation spirit. Support the people and programmes that make protection possible. Travel with intention, knowing that your presence here, if done right, can help shape a brighter future for the wild heart of Africa. TN

FAST FACTS FROM THE 2024 REPORT:

• Rhino poaching peaked in 2015 but has since stabilised through strategic interventions.

• In 2023, elephant poaching dropped to under 10 cases nationally.

• Over 100 pangolins were seized in illegal trade crackdowns between 2017 and 2023.

• Otjiwarongo’s new Environmental Court is the first of its kind in the region, improving legal outcomes in wildlife crime cases.

• Namibia has 86 registered communal conservancies, covering more than 20% of the country’s land area.

NAMIBIA DISCOVER

18.

19. Fish River Canyon & Hobas Camp

20. /Ai-/Ais Hotsprings Spa

21. Mile 72

22. Mile 108

23. Jakkalsputz

24. Boplaas Campsite

25. Von Bach Tungeni Resort

26.

Visiting fossils

of long ago

Trapped in the myriad rock formations of Namibia lie many treasures, including the fossils of a small crocodile-like creature that swam in an ancient inland sea before humankind was even a whisper on the wind.

Some of Namibia’s marvels are well-known, like the towering apricot sand dunes of Sossusvlei, the dramatic Fish River Canyon and the rock engravings at Twyfelfontein. Others are less known and lie secreted along the gravel roads that meander through the country, giving little clue of the gems they hold.

Amongst the fossilised remains of prehistory are those of dinosaurs that left their three-toed tracks embedded in the Mount Etjo sandstone as they loped through the countryside and the Mesosaurus reptiles in southern Namibia, whose bodies fossilised in rock as the seabeds dried up, dazzling us Earthlings millions of years later.

MESOSAURUS FOSSIL CAMP

Exiting Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park towards Namibia at Mata-Mata, I followed the gravel roads towards Koës. Being a Sunday morning, there was hardly a ripple in the small, sleepy settlement. The shops and the Moer Toe Coffee Shop were closed. Thankfully, the fuel station was not, and I disturbed a petrol attendant sheltering from the wind to fill up my tank before continuing westward towards Keetmanshoop. Forty kilometres before the town, I spotted the Mesosaurus Fossil Camp and happily turned in.

And in an intriguingly fascinating country like Namibia, the gems often come with a lot of colour and charm. And, in Giel’s case, a good sense of humour.

The camp, with its rustic stone-and-thatch bungalows, bush camp amongst the quiver trees and relaxed atmosphere, had charmed the socks off me years ago. Hendrik Steenkamp noticed my cloud-of-dust entrance and arrived on his motorbike to offer me a room and start the fire in the donkey (a wood-fired water heater). This welcoming, down-to-earth camp is sweet balm for a weary traveller. I knew from past experience, however, that it is not only the camp that radiates charm, but also its Mesosaurus fossils and Giel Steenkamp’s entertaining tour that leaves a big smile on your face.

SHARING TREASURES ALONG DUSTY ROADS

Tourism matters on so many levels by supporting local initiatives and bringing in revenue for the country, but importantly, it also enables the treasures of the country to be shared with visitors. And in an intriguingly fascinating country like Namibia, the gems often come with a lot of colour and charm. And, in Giel’s case, a good sense of humour.

I joined the group at the farm gate. Giel was driving his old bakkie and the guests followed behind in their Jimny. He kindly moved his dog from the front seat and I climbed in. The fun began as we drove through the countryside, carpeted with long grass after a good rainy season.

A SERENDIPITOUS FIND

At the first stop, Giel related the story of the Mesosaurus discovery more than thirty years ago when he was working on his farm road. “Back then I was young and handsome,” he said, cracking his first joke of the afternoon, and continued to tell the tale. “While I was working here on my tractor, my son Hendrik, who was ten years old at the time, showed me a stone he had found on the ground, which had unusual marks on its side.” Giel noticed a crack and struck it lightly with a hammer. It broke open, revealing part of a fossil. They looked at it in amazement.

Giel contacted his brother-in-law, who headed the Department of Zoology at the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa. He, in turn, showed it to Dr Burger Oelofsen, who had studied fossils as part of his PhD thesis and who identified it as being from the genus Mesosaurus. Giel soon learnt that the Mesosaurus was a small reptile with a long snout and needle-like teeth for filter feeding, which had lived in the ancient inland sea more than 250 million years ago. His farm was a treasure chest of Mesosaurus fossils. “These creatures lived here in the late Carboniferous and Early Permian periods,” he told us. “The water became acidic over time and dissolved their remains, leaving only their prints in the rock. The fossil is the weak point in the sediment, and the rock breaks open on it.”

With the geological explanation over, he reverted to his jokes: “You’re welcome to take photos; it’s not often that you see two fossils in a fossil hand.”

The Mesosaurus find became even more wondrous when he discovered that the fossils had also been found in Brazil

and Uruguay, providing more evidence of continental drift and the theory that the continents of Africa and South America once formed one large landmass – the supercontinent Gondwana. After he related the story, condensing aeons of time into a few sentences, Giel showed us more fossils that perfectly exposed the intricate skeletal structure of the Mesosaurus. He pointed out one with coprolite, enlightening us to the fact that it is fossilised dung. Laughing at his antics, our steps lighter than before, we continued to drive further along the farm road to a magical enclave of quiver trees and dolerite rocks.

QUIVER TREES AND ROCK MUSIC

Surrounded by a bevy of quiver trees (“kokerbome” in Afrikaans), Giel explained how the hollow, corky trunk and branches of Namibia’s iconic tree, Aloidendron dichotomum, were used by early hunter-gatherers as quivers to hold their arrows. He then moved to the adjacent dolerite rocks stacked in piles as if giants had been playing Jenga, explaining how they were formed 180 million years ago in the Keetmanshoop area as magma pushed its way up to the earth’s surface like boiling porridge – “gloop, gloop, gloop”. Erosion did the rest, and the process of oxidation is responsible for the burnished glint on its surface referred to as “desert varnish”.

As if the fossils themselves had not amazed us enough, Giel picked up a stone and proceeded to tap a tune on the rocks. The first was the popular French classic “Frère Jacques”. While we stood in awe, surrounded by quiver trees reaching for the heavens, dolerite rocks and a true-blue Namibian sky, he continued his rock music, playing South Africa’s national anthem “Nkosi Sikilel’ iAfrika” (God Bless Africa) followed by “Jingle Bells”, a tune inspired by visitors who took the tour over Christmas time and requested a festive song. We clapped and shouted our appreciation. Giel humbly responded: “Well, you know I’m not a very good musician, because after all these years, I still can only play three tunes.”

We then had a chance to walk amongst the quiver trees, pose next to their trunks and hug them (if we so chose) before the wind and the late afternoon chased Giel and me back to his bakkie for the homeward drive. We slowly drove back to the camp, where a cosy room and a hot shower awaited me.

The enjoyable tour had made my day and Giel’s lightheartedness added to the charm of this natural museum, situated in the Namibian bush. It may never have been found if destiny had not intervened and his young son had not presented him with a strange-looking rock as he worked on his farm road all those years ago. TN

Shipwrecked. Found.

If the tide is low upon arrival at Möwe Bay, your guide will steer the vehicle straight along the beach, the Atlantic on one side, endless desert landscapes on the other. The wheels bite through the wet sand, and for a fleeting moment you feel like an explorer on the edge of the world. There’s a sense of trespass here – as if you’ve entered a realm that prefers to remain untamed.

The first time I came to Shipwreck Lodge, I was struck speechless by the sheer otherworldliness of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast – that gut-punch of awe you can’t quite put into words. This time, I came to look closer, to listen. The first time is for the feeling; the second is for truly seeing.

THE COAST OF BONES

The Skeleton Coast has earned its ominous name many times over. From above, it looks like the ribs of the earth itself – pale dunes folding into a restless sea. Early sailors, lured by the Benguela current, met their fate here, dashed against the rocks or stranded in the fog. Whale bones, ship timbers, and the detritus of failed human ambition littered the beaches, and so the legend grew: this was the “Land God Made in Anger.”

But standing here now, watching the surf gnaw at the shore, the name feels both fitting and unjust. There is life here – stubborn, clever, beautiful life – from lichens and beetles that drink fog for survival, to desert-adapted lions and elephants that wander the riverbeds inland. And, of course, the ever-elusive brown hyena who roams the shorelines. It’s a place that whispers the story of resilience, and of coexistence between people, land, and wildlife.

A LODGE AMONG THE DUNES

From the crest of a dune, the lodge appears like a surrealist art installation made up of shipwrecks tossed ashore – a collection of angular wooden cabins scattered across the sand, their weathered timbers echoing the stories of vessels lost to the sea. From the deck of our room, styled like a marooned hull, I sip coffee as the morning fog slides silently inland. If being shipwrecked looked like this, I wouldn’t mind being a castaway for a little longer.

Inside, the contrast is striking. The wind may howl across the dunes, but within these wooden sanctuaries the atmosphere is one of warmth and comfort. Interiors are softly lit and cocooning, woollen throws draped over armchairs, brass details catching the light, and wide windows framing the raw wilderness outside. At night, the Atlantic’s chill is kept at bay by crackling fireplaces and the hum of conversation drifting from the dining room, where the kitchen serves what must be the finest menu I’ve experienced at any lodge. Each course arrives as a small masterpiece, a balance of artistry and authenticity that mirrors the environment itself: simple yet unforgettable.

The staff, most of whom come from nearby conservancies, are as much a part of the magic as the setting. They are welcoming, intuitive, and proud of their home – every smile feels genuine, every interaction threaded with kindness. Our guide, Bravo, made each journey beyond the lodge both informative and wonderful, his vast knowledge of the desert’s history, wildlife, and people transforming the drive into an education in itself.

And then there’s the Namib. Enveloping us. Both a playground and a lecture hall. So much to learn, to explore, to discover. We walk and climb. Ride quadbikes up dunes and slide back down on duneboards. The desert is far from silent. The Atlantic roars, a steady heartbeat in the distance. A lone crow follows me along the ridge of a dune, perhaps hopeful for scraps, perhaps keeping watch. When I take a step, the sand groans beneath me – a deep, moaning sigh, as if the earth is exhaling its last ancient breath. From far off comes the plaintive call of a jackal. It’s eerie and comforting all at once, this reminder that nothing in nature is ever truly still.

THE PEOPLE OF THE LAND

At Shipwreck Lodge, every breathtaking view comes tethered to a story of people – of how this remote place sustains not only wildlife but also human life. The lodge exists through a partnership between the Puros and Sesfontein Conservancies and the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism. It’s one of Namibia’s most successful examples of community-based conservation – a model that works precisely because it places the custodianship of the land in the hands of those who have always called it home.

My guide, Bravo Kasupi, comes from Puros village. He’s worked in tourism for over fifteen years, from Sossusvlei to Damaraland to here, on the Skeleton Coast. He tells me how Shipwreck Lodge’s partnership with the conservancies has changed lives: how most of the staff hail from Puros and Sesfontein, and how, early on, the lodge donated 4x4 vehicles to the conservancies for wildlife and environmental management.

“The tourism industry really helps [rural communities] a lot,” Bravo says. “Even people who never finished school can find work and learn skills. The conservancy gets fees from the lodge, and that money helps the whole community. When tourists come, they don’t just see animals – they help us protect them.”

He tells me about Puros: a village of around 600 people, most of them livestock farmers. In earlier generations, the people lived by hunting and gathering, moving with the seasons. He recounts the story of three Himba families – the Olang, Kasupi, and Katiti – who once roamed

the Skeleton Coast before being moved inland in the 1920s. Today, many of their descendants still live in the conservancies, balancing a traditional lifestyle with the modern opportunities tourism provides.

A SHARED FUTURE

Later, I meet Balack Karutjaiva, also from Puros Conservancy. Like Bravo, he has spent a decade working in lodges across Namibia before joining Shipwreck. He explains how tourism has reshaped the community’s relationship with conservation.

“People now understand that the animals bring tourists,” he says. “If you kill the wildlife, the tourists stop coming. And if there’s no tourism, there’s no jobs. So we protect what we have.”

Balack tells me that around 70 to 75% of Shipwreck Lodge’s employees come from the two conservancies. The lodge also supports education by sponsoring children to study further and helping build classrooms in Puros and Sesfontein. For a small village of herders on the edge of the desert, that kind of opportunity changes everything.

Namibia’s conservancy model has done something few countries have managed – it has created a system where conservation and community development are inseparable. There are now 83 registered conservancies across the country, collectively covering over 20% of Namibia’s land. These communal areas are self-governed, democratic, and designed to empower rural people to benefit from wildlife rather than compete with it.

Under the agreement, the communities who hold custodianship of this landscape receive a percentage of the lodge’s turnover as monthly conservancy fees, alongside employment and training. In return, they help safeguard the environment and ensure sustainable use of natural resources. It’s a partnership that keeps both culture and conservation alive – proof that tourism, done right, can be a force for good.

THE DESERT STILL BREATHES

One afternoon, I walk down to the Hoarusib River. Though the last floods came months ago, the riverbed still glistens with pools of water, and reeds hum with the sound of life. I find elephant tracks, fresh, and think of how rare it is in the world today to stand somewhere that still belongs so fully to the wild.

From the top of a high dune, I can see the Atlantic crashing below, white waves curling into the dark blue-grey water. A bank of fog rolls in, swallowing the horizon. For a moment, I imagine an old ship emerging from that ghostly veil – its crew unaware of what awaits, yet guided, perhaps, by the same awe that pulls people here today.

WHY NAMIBIA WORKS

Everywhere I travel in Namibia, I see this intricate balance – where tourism becomes both a livelihood and a lesson in stewardship. It gives communities reason to protect the land, to keep traditions alive, and to educate their children. Bravo’s and Balack’s stories echo what I’ve heard all across the country: that the success of our tourism is measured not only in visitor numbers but in the lives it touches.

When I return to our cabin at dusk, the fog has thickened, turning the world to silver. I sit on the deck and listen to the ocean’s endless murmur. The desert breathes around us, a low, eternal hum reminding me that even in solitude, we are never truly alone – bound always between traveller and host, wilderness and community, past and future.

The Skeleton Coast may once have been a place of endings. Today, it feels like a place of beginnings –proof that even the most desolate landscapes can be full of life, purpose, and hope when people come together to protect them. TN

Wildlife Initiative

Erongo Mountain Nature Conservancy

Empowering People, Preserving Nature - Connecting Communities through Conservation . linktr.ee/journeysnamibia GROOTBERG LODGE

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MADELEEN DUVENHAGE

Photographs YORK DUVENHAGE

COMMUNITY CAMPSITE

A SPITZKOPPE SOJOURN

I can still recall the first time I saw the Spitzkoppe. I was in my teens, travelling with my family on vacation to one of Namibia’s most iconic geological formations. I had slept through much of the six-hour drive, and when I finally woke up – still groggy and heavy with sleep – evening was just setting in. As we circled around looking for a spot to pitch our tent, I peered out of the car window. It felt like I had been unknowingly airlifted and landed on an entirely different planet. The inky night sky was pierced with a million glittering, luminous stars. Shadowy, sharp massifs towered above us; even the moon seemed oddly dwarfed by these mysterious peaks of protruding rock. The place felt both prehistoric and cosmic. That otherworldly sense has never quite faded, even though I have since returned to Spitzkoppe countless times as an adult.

WHERE GIANTS ROAM

In the western reaches of the Erongo Region, a flat expanse of semi-desert savannah extends northwards, where the otherwise unbroken horizon is crowned by the unmistakable craggyshaped domes of the Spitzkoppe.

Spitzkoppe, a granite inselberg often nicknamed the “Matterhorn of Namibia” for its pointed, jagged profile, stretches 600 to 700 metres above the Namib plains. Forged by time from the eroded remnants of an ancient subterranean mass of solidified lava – much like the Brandberg and Erongo mountains – it is estimated to be more than 120 million years old. The tallest of its many outcrops stands at 1,728 metres above sea level.

With its raw, rural setting, this camping option invites you to unplug, leave your devices behind and truly disconnect from the digital white noise in our lives.

Leaving Windhoek and its concrete cityscapes behind, we travel towards the north-central part of the country, known as Damaraland. The landscape, ringed by the Erongo mountains, is populated with crooked yet surprisingly tall termite hills rising from the earth. Scattered among them stands the familiar camelthorn tree, its branches buoyant and sunny with yellow blossoms from the recent rains. Located roughly 280 kilometres from Windhoek – merely a threehour drive from the capital – Spitzkoppe is reached via the B2 highway, with the small town of Usakos along the way. I may be a little partial here, but for the intrepid, self-sufficient traveller, few experiences rival camping at Spitzkoppe. Among the available accommodation options, Spitzkoppe Community Campsite, though the most basic when compared to the nearby chalets and the luxurious Spitzkoppen Lodge, offers the unique allure of simplicity and solitude.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

This camping alternative is not only far more affordable for the cash-strapped backpacker, but also offers nofrills, easily accessible logistics. Travelling mostly on tarred roads, a stretch of well-maintained gravel takes you directly to the campsite’s reception. Spitzkoppe Community Campsite offers 31 designated camping spots spread across the park. Some sites are completely secluded, while others are grouped in clusters of two or three. Camping here is delightfully unstructured: it’s first come, first served, but there is rarely a frantic sprint of competitive campers scrambling for a spot. There always seems to be enough space to go around! For added privacy, some sites are more tucked away, with rugged rock overhangs providing welcome shade before the morning sun starts to turn.

The campsites are minimally equipped, with no running water or electricity. There are no flushing toilets at the individual sites; instead, pit latrines (also referred to as “long drops”) are conveniently located at various camping spots, along with waste bins and fireplaces. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to stock up on all essentials before heading out to Spitzkoppe, especially water for drinking, washing or cooking. Firewood is available for purchase at reception. Upon check-in, you’ll receive a simple navigational map of the campsite area. Guests can prebook meals at a small restaurant and bar located at reception, where you’ll also find hot showers and flushing toilets.

Still, I would daringly propose taking full advantage of camping wild and temporarily trade cushioned comfort for the sake of an unadulterated, immersive adventure.

With its raw, rural setting, this camping option invites you to unplug, leave your devices behind and truly disconnect from the digital white noise in our lives.

FROM STARGAZING TO DAYDREAMING

On our first evening, with braaied meat and garlic bread sizzling on the grill and another liberal layer of mosquito repellent applied, we move our camping chairs closer to the fire and listen. At first, the quiet feels deafening, save for the soothing “ooh-oh” of an owl and our crackling campfire. Eventually, the stillness settles around us like an old friend.

Here, the geography resembles a giant’s playground –boulders rearranged and seemingly moved at whim. At night, Spitzkoppe is transformed, giving your imagination free rein. We gaze at the colossal outlines and guess what abstract art form they might resemble: a hull of a ship, a slumbering whale, or perhaps an outstretched hand? Ridges and contoured slopes have been carved out through the millennia, formed and folded like pastry dough, yet now strangely immovable and ancient. Spitzkoppe, in its secluded enchantment, presents a perfect environment for astrophotography. With the camera carefully angled on a chair, we capture dizzying galaxies darting across the clear night sky in an experimental timelapse. The Southern Sky unveils the Milky Way, Orion’s Belt and the Southern Cross –constellations Northerners seldom get to see.

First thing the next morning, we set out to explore. The earlier you start, the easier and more refreshing the hikes are likely to be. Generally, it is best to visit Spitzkoppe during the dry season, from May to October, when the cooler weather makes hiking and walking more enjoyable. Even in the pleasantly crisp climate expected at the end of May in Namibia, temperatures can still rise sharply during the day. Be sure to wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and keep ample drinking water close at hand.

Guided hikes are available for those unsure of where to start and can be arranged at reception. Routes include the Matterhorn and Pontok trails, some of which require a technical edge. Be sure to keep an eye out for two iconic landmarks: the oft-photographed Rock Arch, a striking stone bridge that has become a favourite among photographers (especially during golden hour), and the Rock Pool, a rain-fed basin formed between the granite rocks.

One of the highlights at Spitzkoppe is Bushman Paradise, a fascinating site where you can view ancient rock engravings left behind by the Khoisan people centuries ago. These art tours offer a glimpse into the beliefs and daily life of Southern Africa’s oldest cultural group. Due to past damage and the need to preserve this heritage, access to the site is only allowed with a guide, who also brings the history of the area to life through stories and local context that add depth.

(rock hyraxes) scamper through narrow clefts in the rocks, while inquisitive squirrels peek at us from their burrowed hideouts. The air is alive with birdlife: we spot weavers, hornbills, Pale-Winged Starlings, and cheeky warblers pecking away at campsite scraps with no shame. We cannot help but notice surprising streams of water trickling down from a rock face – happy evidence of a generous rainy season experienced throughout Namibia.

However, for the traveller who values autonomy when traversing new terrains, self-guided and slow-paced explorations are best for making the most of your time at Spitzkoppe. The smaller rock formations at Spitzkoppe are moderately easy to climb, with smooth and gradual gradients. Comparatively, these steady ascents might not be much in terms of elevation, but the view is nonetheless still rewarding.

As we wind our way along undulating dirt trails, desert-toned lizards skittle under our feet, quick as a flash. Nimble dassies

As sunset nears, the granite composition of the rocks turn the peaks into hues of glowing pink, which slowly deepen to a rich, reddening ochre. We watch as night arrives and the first star flickers into view. At Spitzkoppe, you don’t escape the world. You reconnect with it through stillness. TN

Ongava’s Rhinos: Proof of Purpose

IIn Namibia, tourism and conservation are often two sides of the same coin – both rooted in a profound respect for land. Across the country, private landowners shoulder an immense responsibility: transforming once-degraded farmlands into thriving ecosystems that sustain wildlife, livelihoods, and hope. Their investment of time, resources, and heart creates safe havens where tourism becomes a force for preservation rather than pressure. Ongava Game Reserve stands as a shining example of this vision. What was once a cluster of exhausted cattle farms has become one of Namibia’s most successful private conservation stories – a living landscape where rhinos roam freely, science drives stewardship, and visitors witness firsthand why tourism, when rooted in purpose, truly matters.

ONGAVA’S RHINOS: THE HEARTBEAT OF THE RESERVE

The sun rises over the golden savanna, casting a warm glow across the vast plains of Ongava Game Reserve. Here, in the heart of Namibia, life moves at a rhythm that has endured for centuries. This is rhino country, a place where survival and hope walk side by side. Once four unproductive cattle farms, Ongava is now a thriving sanctuary for countless species, with rhinos at its very core. Their presence is both a gift and a responsibility. One carried with deep dedication by everyone who calls Ongava home.

A SPECIES ON THE BRINK

Across Africa, rhino populations have been decimated. Poaching for rhino horn remains one of the greatest threats to these magnificent animals. Criminal syndicates fuel the illegal trade, putting rhinos at risk every single day.

Inside Ongava’s Discovery Center, a map reveals the rhino’s once-vast range now reduced to a handful of pinpoints. Black and white rhinos, once abundant across the continent, now exist only in small, fragmented populations. Numbers in the thousands may sound encouraging, until one understands they represent an 83–85% decline. Sobering though it is, this story is not one of despair, but of resilience.

WHITE AND BLACK, SIDE BY SIDE

Ongava is one of the rare places where both white and black rhinos roam freely. While closely related, their differences are striking. White rhinos are larger, with a broad, squareshaped mouth suited to grazing on grasses, while black rhinos are slightly smaller, with a pointed upper lip designed to grasp leaves and branches from shrubs and trees. Understanding these adaptations deepens appreciation for their unique roles in the ecosystem and the distinct challenges each species faces.

Every rhino at Ongava is known and carefully monitored from birth. A dedicated rhino monitoring program tracks each individual, documenting family lines to maintain a healthy, genetically diverse population. After years of drought that had made supplemental feeding a costly necessity, the rains returned to Ongava. The plains blossomed with fresh grass and new shoots, filling the air with the scent of wet earth. For the first time in years, food is abundant and natural, a gift from the land that reminds everyone at Ongava that resilience and renewal are always possible.

GUARDIANS ON THE GROUND

Keeping these animals safe is no small task. Ongava is proud to maintain a record of zero poaching incidents to date, a remarkable achievement in a world where the threat is ever-present. The success of the reserve’s conservation efforts relies on a layered, round-the-clock protection and anti-poaching system including foot patrols, trained canine teams, aerial support, advanced monitoring technologies and so much more. A multi-faceted approach designed to deter threats.

A remarkable unit in these protection efforts are the Ongava anti-poaching K9’s. Skilled in detecting intruders, tracking human scent and responding rapidly when their handlers need them. These four-legged guardians are more than security tools, they are trusted partners whose intelligence, loyalty, and skill play a vital role in keeping the rhinos safe. Guests who meet them while out on a drive through the reserve leave inspired, witnessing firsthand how teamwork across species can help save a precious animal.

LIVE THE WILD LIFE AT ONGAVA.

By putting nature first at Ongava, we set the scene for a renewed understanding and appreciation of the importance of wildlife conservation.

SCIENCE WITH PURPOSE

Ongava is not only a haven but also a living laboratory. With almost 20 years at Ongava, Abigail Guerier brings both scientific expertise and a deep passion for wildlife conservation. She began her journey as a researcher in 2005 and has led Ongava’s Rhino Programme since 2012. Under her guidance, the groundbreaking work conducted on the reserve, including genetics studies and research on population health, ensures that every intervention is carefully informed and every rhino has the best chance at thriving in the wild. At the heart of this, the genetic research ensures healthy bloodlines and reduces the risk of inbreeding, safeguarding the resilience of future generations.

The team also manages a notching program that contributes to both protection and research through the identification and careful monitoring of each individual. Discreet tracking technology is deployed across the reserve, allowing the team to monitor movement, behaviour, and overall wellbeing, while also supporting security and research programs that guide conservation decisions.

Beyond daily protection, Ongava contributes to broader scientific understanding. From feeding preference studies to climate-change population modelling, these research initiatives help predict the pressures rhinos may face in years to come. Each insight brings us closer to ensuring that rhinos not only survive, but prosper in their natural habitats.

WHY IT MATTERS

Rhinos are more than icons of Africa’s wilderness. They are an umbrella species, whose survival helps preserve entire

ecosystems and countless other creatures that share their habitat. When calves run alongside their mothers and the plains teem with life once again, it is a reminder of why this work matters.

Every birth is a victory.

Every day without incident is a triumph.

And every guest who leaves Ongava with a deeper understanding of the effort required to protect these animals becomes a partner in the ongoing story of their survival.

Conservation is a responsibility that cannot be carried alone. By visiting Ongava, learning its stories, and sharing them with the world, guests become part of the solution. Here, in this corner of Namibia, hope endures.

As long as rhinos roam the Ongava plains, the team will continue to stand guard with people, with science, and with K9’s at their side. Protecting the land and the generations yet to come.

“Rhinos are extraordinary creatures - prehistoric, yet still powerfully present and awe inspiring in this modern world. To roam this small piece of dusty land with them is a privilege. The threats facing our planet’s wildlife today are too vast to fully comprehend. And while human activity is at the root of many of these challenges, people are also key to the solution..” – Abigail Guerier, Rhino Programme Manager. TN

Read more about Ongava at www.ongava.com/whispers

Kgalagadi

where red dunes meet wandering rivers

A place of timeless sands and endless skies – right on Namibia’s doorstep!

Despite the harsh conditions, game viewing is exceptional, as wildlife is more concentrated in the dry Kgalagadi.

The word Kgalagadi is derived from kgala, meaning “to dry up” or “to thirst”, and gadi, meaning “place of”. Together, Kgalagadi describes the vast semi-desert region stretching across Botswana, South Africa and partly bordering on Namibia – a landscape defined by red dunes, ephemeral rivers and an enduring scarcity of surface water; a land of thirst.

Much has been written about the Kgalagadi: home of ancient hunter-gatherers, a vast wilderness and a land of silence and survival. For thousands of years, the San and later the Khoikhoi roamed the Kgalagadi’s red dunes and dry riverbeds, living in harmony with its harsh beauty. Their ancient tracks, stories and rock art mark the desert as one of humanity’s oldest homelands.

With the arrival of settlers in the late 19th and early 20th century, cattle, farming and hunting was introduced and wildlife declined. This led to the proclamation of the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in 1931 under the stewardship of Johannes le Riche and his assistant Gert Jannewarie. Across the border, Botswana established the adjoining Gemsbok National Park in 1938. Decades later, these two wilderness areas were united to form the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in 2000 – Southern Africa’s first peace park, celebrating shared heritage, open landscapes and cross-border conservation.

The historic !Ae!Hai Kalahari Heritage Park land settlement agreement with the government of South Africa saw six farms (totalling around 35,000 ha) to the south of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, and nearly 60,000 ha of land within the park, restored to the Khomani San and Mier communities in 2002.

There are three main entrance gates: Twee Rivieren in South Africa, Mata-Mata in Namibia, and Mabuasehube in Botswana. Two additional gates in Botswana (Two Rivers and Kaa) allow access to the park, but the primary entrances are Twee Rivieren, Mata-Mata, and Mabuasehube.

Travelling from Namibia, there are beautiful places to explore along the way. The quaint town of Stampriet, a small agricultural centre sustained by the underground waters of the Stampriet Artesian Basin, has an intriguing historical past and produces an array of fresh fruits and vegetables. Both Gondwana’s Kalahari Anib Lodge and the charming Kalahari Farmhouse at Stampriet make for inviting stopovers to unwind before entering some truly remarkable scenery, with the gravel road winding through the Auob riverbed. Lined with majestic camelthorn trees and a glimpse of red dunes in the distance, this stretch offers a first taste of the Kalahari’s stark beauty.

The park conserves one of the world’s most abundant semi-arid biomes. The southern and western areas are dominated by Kalahari xeric savanna, interspersed with acacia-baikiaea woodlands. As is typical in arid regions, the weather can be extreme: midsummer days in January often exceed 40 °C, while winter nights drop below freezing. Recorded extremes range from -11 °C to 45 °C, and rainfall is sparse.

Vegetation is sparse but hardy, including deep-rooted acacias and other drought-resistant plants. The tsamma melon, African horned cucumber and the devil’s claw thrive here and a variety of wildflowers provide brilliant specks of colour, especially after the rains. Despite the harsh conditions, game viewing is exceptional, as wildlife is more concentrated in the dry Kgalagadi.

The park is home to more than 55 mammal species, making it a haven for predator enthusiasts. Iconic carnivores include black-maned Kalahari lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas, while migratory herbivores such as blue wildebeest, springbok, eland and red hartebeest traverse the park in impressive numbers. Smaller residents include meerkats, ground squirrels, honey badgers, pangolins, Cape foxes and bat-eared foxes. Meerkats, Cape foxes and bat-eared foxes often have dens close to the roadside and many happy hours can be spent observing family life around the den, especially when youngsters are around, providing endless entertainment with their antics.

The park’s birdlife is equally remarkable, with over 260 species recorded, including an astonishing diversity of

raptors. At least six species of owls can be seen, among them Verreaux’s Eagle-owl, Spotted Eagle-owl, White-faced Owl, African Scops Owl, Pearl-spotted Owlet and Barn Owl.

Having visited the park an estimated fifteen times since 2011, it was probably the sight of a spectacular blackmaned Kalahari lion that sparked my enduring love affair with the Kgalagadi. Watching any of the large, charismatic cats gliding across red sand, or ambling slowly along the deep, sandy tracks of the Auob or Nossob riverbeds, is enough to send your pulse racing. The park is also one of the best places to spot the striking African wildcat, often glimpsed at close range, well concealed in the camelthorn and grey camelthorn trees lining the riverbeds. Sightings of the more elusive caracal are not unusual, with many memorable encounters captured in photographs.

Even though the sight of giraffe navigating the dune-scape along the Auob feels wonderfully incongruous, it is a reminder of the Kgalagadi’s surprising diversity. The Auob Valley has often set the stage for spectacular cheetah chases. Herds of springbok frequently gather here, attracting the world’s fastest cat into striking range and offering nail-biting moments when the chase begins, culminating in a blur of speed, dust and raw wilderness drama.

Life in the park centres around its many waterholes, scattered along the Auob and Nossob riverbeds. Yet wildlife – especially the predators – rarely linger, and sightings are often a matter of pure luck, which makes each encounter all the more rewarding and thrilling. Setting out at first light, with sharpened senses and high expectations, is often

most productive, particularly for lion and leopard sightings. The predominantly nocturnal brown hyena is also frequently on the move at this time of the day, providing a rare opportunity to observe these elusive, shy creatures up close.

Photographers treasure the golden hours – that magical glow of early morning or the soft rays of the setting sun – when a hint of dust in the air turns every scene into a work of art.

Wildlife encounters are often unusual and spectacular, from a feisty jackal nipping at the heels of a brown hyena to aerial combats between raptors, a leopard enjoying the shade of a car, noisy and terrifying lion brawls when young males are ousted from the pride or the tender birth of a springbok lamb.

The park has three main camps: Mata-Mata, Twee Rivieren and Nossob, each with a waterhole, chalets, campsites, a fuel station and wellstocked shops. Yet for me, the real magic lies in the six wilderness camps scattered throughout the park – wild, unfenced and intimate. Four selfcatering chalets sleep two, except for the larger Kalahari Tented Camp, which also offers family units. Picture yourself on your stoep, overlooking the waterhole, G&T in hand, the fire casting a golden glow over the bush, lions wandering nearby and the sounds of barking geckos all around –classical Kalahari!

Even the mischievous lions add their own charm, chewing car tyres and listening in fascination to the hiss of air escaping the punctures, which at times had left guests stranded until replacement tyres arrived from Upington! SANParks, ever resourceful, solved the problem with clever metal cages that go around the tyres, keeping the wildlife entertained but the vehicles safe.

For me, the lure of the Kgalagadi lies not only in its predator-rich environment, but in the sum of its wholeness – the red dunes, dust and dreams, the golden light, whispers of wind and wilderness, vast skies, spectacular thunderstorms, tales of hardship and endurance, footprints in the sand and that profound sense of peace and solitude that settles over everything. TN

NEW NKASA LINYANTI CAMP

Opening May 2026

In a remote wetland wilderness in Namibia’s Zambezi Region, framed by the waters of the Linyanti and Kwando rivers, a new chapter in sustainable safari travel is unfolding. Natural Selection, known for its purposedriven portfolio of safari camps across southern Africa, has unveiled Nkasa Linyanti: a brand-new sixsuite under-canvas camp in Nkasa Rupara National Park, a sanctuary for endangered species and a crucial breeding ground for regional wildlife populations.

Set to open in May 2026, Nkasa Linyanti will be the only permanent camp on Nkasa Island, occupying a private concession within the park. Surrounded by reed-fringed channels and the sweeping grasslands of the greater Linyanti ecosystem, the camp offers front-row access to a landscape reminiscent of the Okavango Delta, yet with a fraction of the visitors.

“For decades I’ve gazed longingly across the Linyanti River from Botswana, eyes fixed on Nkasa Rupara National Park,” says Dave van Smeerdijk, co-founder of Natural Selection. “It’s a place that feels like Namibia’s answer to the Okavango Delta, equally wild and utterly captivating.”

WILD LUXURY ON A PRIVATE ISLAND

Nkasa Linyanti will take full advantage of that wild setting, with a camp of just six under-canvas suites ‒ including two family tents ‒ set beneath the boughs of mature leadwood and sausage trees. Indoors, organic textures and a palette of natural tones convey the camp’s sense of understated charm and wilderness immersion: billowing mosquito nets, handwoven baskets, canvas armchairs, al fresco showers and canvas walls that open wide to invite the outside in.

It’s a place that feels like Namibia’s answer to the Okavango Delta, equally wild and utterly captivating.

A CAMP ROOTED IN CONSERVATION

Every stay at Nkasa Linyanti supports the work of Nkasa Rupara National Park, a 70,000-acre conservation hotspot that is a keystone for the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KZTCA). Entirely unfenced, the park provides a crucial corridor for regional elephant migration, supports breeding herds of buffalo and other endangered species, and protects key wetland habitats essential for cross-border biodiversity and regional conservation efforts.

IMMERSIVE SAFARI EXPERIENCES

Guests at Nkasa Linyanti can look forward to a rich diversity of wildlife encounters. The park is home to Namibia’s largest concentration of buffalo, significant elephant herds, and healthy populations of lion and leopard. Hippos and red lechwe thrive in the waterways, while sightings of sitatunga and reedbuck will be a highlight of the daily game drives and bush walks.

Activities are tailored to the rhythm of the seasons. In the dry months (April to October), the floodwaters arrive, perfect for mokoro safaris and boat excursions on the Linyanti River. The arrival of the rains in the green season (November to March) transforms the landscape into a tapestry of lush grasslands that are a magnet for migratory birds. Over 430 bird species have been recorded in the park, making it Namibia’s most productive birding destination.

Day and night game drives, walking safaris, and boating excursions offer guests at Nkasa Linyanti a full spectrum of immersive experiences.

“Nkasa Rupara is one of southern Africa’s best-kept secrets: wild, pristine, and utterly magical,” adds van Smeerdijk. TN

More info: www.naturalselection.travel

Why visiting Namibia’s Linyanti Wetlands & Nkasa Linyanti Camp should be on your 2026 travel plans

Okavango Delta Feel Without the Crowds

In Namibia’s remote Zambezi Region, this untamed wilderness offers the atmosphere of the Okavango Delta ‒ but without the crowds or the cost.

Intact Wetland Ecosystem

Fed by the Linyanti and Kwando rivers, a network of floodplains, lagoons, and reedbeds sustains rich birdlife and abundant wildlife, especially in the dry season when water is scarce elsewhere.

Rich and Diverse Game Viewing

The blend of wetland and savannah habitats supports remarkable biodiversity, serving as both a refuge for endangered species and a vital breeding ground for wildlife.

Water and Land-Based Safaris

Explore by game drive, night drive, guided walk, mokoro, or boat cruise ‒ the variety of experiences is as diverse as the landscape.

Exceptional Dry-Season Concentration of Wildlife

Vast herds of elephant and buffalo gather here during the dry months, followed closely by lion, leopard, and hyena.

Birding Paradise

With over 430 recorded species, this is Namibia’s premier year-round birding destination.

Wolwedans and RuralRevive:

Hope as a Verb

It is easy to despair. We are all aware of the state of the world. In the context of tourism, there is much to be said about luxuries that the planet simply cannot afford; about the way things have always been done. And yet, at the edge of the world, in the remotest of untouched wilderness and the small, forgotten town nearest to it, an environmental and economic blood transfusion is happening in real time. What I witnessed did nothing less than transform me. This was hope as a verb.

The truth is, the south of Namibia is mostly uninhabitable. You only have to get out of your air-conditioned car somewhere between Windhoek and Wolwedans to know that you could easily die here without water and wheels. Farmers ended up here after the Second World War because the better land had already been taken. Before them, only nomadic indigenous tribes survived here, moving where water dictated. For a long time, vanity created livelihoods – first through diamonds, later through high fashion and karakul lamb pelts. Did anyone imagine that once the diamonds dried up and the fur industry collapsed, this extraordinary nothingness would be the only thing to keep descendants alive?

Someone did.

Albi Brückner bought land in the southwest (known today as the NamibRand conservation area) – much to the alarm of his wife, who had experienced the reality of farming in Namibia. But Albi, a banker turned entrepreneur by profession, was a conservationist at heart. Contrary to his era, he did not want to tame the land. He wanted to free it. When he and his son Stephan set up the first tents at Wolwedans in 1995, he was acutely aware of what he was offering: pristine, uninterrupted, raw space. Deafening silence. Long before it became urgent, Albi stopped in his tracks when he saw bundles of white linen headed for the laundry in the middle of the desert. “This is not sustainable,” he said.

Stephan Brückner, sensitised by his father’s devotion to conservation, took over and built an iconic, high-end tourist experience. From the outset, Wolwedans has taken waste management, water use and community investment seriously. But Stephan was aghast at guests demanding freshly squeezed orange juice, a globe and a half’s travel from the nearest orchard. He had some thinking to do.

“It is no longer enough to not do any harm,” he said. “You have to do better.”

Covid-19 brought Wolwedans to rock bottom, and being at rock bottom has a clearer view of forever than being busy and making money. It would make much more sense, Stephan thought, to close the loop so that the industry invests right back into the lives and land it has sprouted from.

The RuralRevive initiative was born from the kind of vision that seems too ambitious. How can a town already teetering on the edge – a dusty stopover where buses fill up tanks and dispose of trash – be turned around?

You do what Wolwedans did. You start with a pilot project in the backyard of your luxury lodge. You recycle water, grow vegetables in water-sensitive ways, run a water-efficient laundry and appoint people to offer a sewing workshop. You repurpose every piece of scrap metal, plastic, wood and glass. You build staff housing, beautiful and spacious enough for workers to live with dignity. You set up solar energy, breed fish in tanks, start a carpentry workshop and create art studios. Add chickens, eggs and the dream of a mushroom farm.

Wolwedans and RuralRevive is the answer. Maltahöhe, once forgotten, is fast becoming the beating heart of a desert-based economy.

And you make it all beautiful.

Then you replicate it on a town scale in Maltahöhe. You find people with the same vision and heart, as well as the grit to work, drive, invest and build with you.

Three years later, you see a movement that has broken through the toughest layer of hopelessness in this small town. Rows of lettuce heads swell into perfect spheres, green globes where there was nothing. Knowledge is transferred, fingers grow green and early morning meetings happen in circles where every team member is seen and heard. “This feels like a chapel,” my friend Debbie says of the steep, triangular roof of the greenhouse, pointing up to a cloudy sky.

Of course it does.

There are so many stories here. Willem Papier was found with his family at the refuse dump, scavenging for anything of value he could sell to feed them. Now he runs the RuralRevive waste management plant, where mountains of rubbish from the streets, bushes and wilderness get sorted and managed into a sustainable system. The movement’s own Desert Runner trucks bring the used and discarded byproducts of tourism establishments back to be transformed, creating stories that are rewriting history.

Soon RuralRevive will be able to serve all the surrounding lodges with laundry services, fresh meat and vegetables, pickled and bottled produce, carpentry and linen manufacturing. The beautiful old hall at the high school is being restored as a vocational training facility. Sports fields are upgraded, and a tourism training establishment will soon breathe life into charming old buildings. Life spills over. Jobs are being created, providing answers to the tired, old question: How will it ever change?

Wolwedans and RuralRevive is the answer. Maltahöhe, once forgotten, is fast becoming the beating heart of a desertbased economy.

And where does tourism fit into this masterplan? It is the bloodline. It brings needs that must be met, generating opportunities for enterprises, arts, services and products. It is the first dot that sets off the circle of a circular economy.

Stephan Brückner knows that a single pair of vehicle tracks over the desert plain will remain there forever. Human beings leave footprints. But humans are also the only conscious beings who will travel at great expense to simply be awed, humbled, captured and recalibrated in this extraordinary desert wonder. So you keep on the single track. You come with an acute and continuous awareness of where you are, what it costs, but also what you can bring.

The beauty will remain in the balance; in not taking more than your share, planting a tree in solidarity with a vision and embracing new ways of doing things that are better for the world.

It takes visionaries among us to refuse any alternative other than signing up for the all-encompassing, neverending work to change a system for the long run. If this is indeed possible – which it is – just imagine. Just dare. TN

The Vice President, Lucia Witbooi, together with Hardap Region Governor Riaan McNab, visited the RuralRevive Campus in Maltahöhe to get a firsthand look at the different initiatives being implemented under the Wolwedans Foundation’s RuralRevive Programme.

RuralRevive - where it stands today (early days) - is a collective effort after all -  made possible by the Wolwedans Foundation, Julius Bär Foundation (Switzerland), Social Security Commission - Development Fund, and Capricorn Foundation and, most importantly, committed hands and hearts in the field at MA.

If you visit one place in Africa, make it Wolwedans

Explore Dune Camp, Desert Lodge, Boulders Camp, Plains Camp, or the ultra-private Mountain View Suite - each gently anchored in a landscape so pristine, time seems to pause.

NAMIBIA’S DIAMONDS

stories of glitter and glory, light and shadow

DELIA MAGG-THESENVITZ

It’s one of humanity’s greatest dreams: to be in the right place at the right time and make a fortune. In 1908, this dream came true for one man and some of his fellows. His name was August Stauch, a German citizen who found diamonds in the Namib Desert and turned his discovery into a fortune. While he was not the first person to pick up a diamond in that area, Stauch’s name became synonymous with the birth of Namibia’s diamond industry — one of the biggest contributors to Namibia’s GDP to this day.

Stauch’s story is not merely one of glitter and glory. It is a story of how “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity,” and it unfolded during the not-so-glorious years of the German colonial era — the backdrop to why Germans and other white settlers were the ones who collected the diamonds and considered them their own.

The land known today as Namibia was one of the last regions on the African continent to be colonised. Although the first Europeans left a footprint in 1487 during a brief stopover, for centuries thereafter the land north of the Cape Colony held little interest — too vast, too dry, too remote, and too difficult to access. The arid region known as Namaqualand was inhabited by the Nama, Damara, San, and Herero peoples, who lived a semi-nomadic life with livestock, supplemented by hunting during hard times.

It was only in the 19th century that a handful of white men began to show interest and travel or settle there. They were explorers, missionaries, big-game hunters, whalers, guano workers, prospectors, traders, and merchants. The first white person to settle in Angra Pequena (today Lüderitz) is said to have been David Radford, whose descendants still live in Lüderitz today — some of them working as tour guides.

Stauch’s story is not merely one of glitter and glory. It is a story of how “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”

The white missionaries, traders, and the so-called Orlam (of the Nama tribe), who had migrated from the Cape Colony, brought with them new ways of living. Alongside cultural novelties such as Christian names, European clothing, square houses, and agriculture, they also introduced new forms of conflict — now fought on horseback and with rifles — which shifted the balance of power.

The event that set Namaqualand on the path to becoming a colony occurred in 1883, when a man with big ambitions entered the scene: Adolf Lüderitz, a merchant from Bremen whose dubious land deals marked the beginning of what would later become German South West Africa. Lüderitz dreamt big — of a trading post at Angra Pequena, mineral mining inland, a harbour, settlements, and green gardens along the Orange River. He brought in equipment and experts from Germany to explore the land from Angra Pequena inland as far as Aus and even the Orange River.

Ironically, Lüderitz’s prospectors never found any valuable minerals. This financial disaster forced Lüderitz to sell his land to the German Colonial Society (Deutsche Kolonialgesellschaft), a Germany-based organisation that promoted colonial interests in other territories as well. Unlike colonies primarily used for crop production, German South West Africa was declared a settler colony — intended to attract Germans willing to migrate to Africa to build new

lives. The fact that the land was already inhabited by native peoples was of little concern to the imperialists.

“Developing” the country, however, proved difficult. Farming was hard, infrastructure costly, and years of conflict with the indigenous people — particularly the Nama and Herero — culminated in the 1904 genocide, which claimed thousands of lives. Only in 1908 did the fighting end, and the  Schutztruppe began returning home, leaving shops, bars, and hotels without customers. Economic decline seemed inevitable.

Then, in April, a miracle happened: diamonds were found. The lucky man was August Stauch, from a small town in Germany. Suffering from a lung disease, he had requested a transfer to Africa’s warm, dry climate, where his company was building railways. Career-wise, this was a setback; his new position was far less glamorous than his title, Bahnmeister in Kolmannskuppe, suggested.

Kolmannskuppe was little more than a railway siding in the desert, about 14 km from Lüderitzbucht. No passengers ever boarded or alighted there — its sole purpose was Stauch’s task: keeping the tracks free of sand. A lonely outpost with a small team, a few barracks, and daily sandstorms — a place many would have considered dreary and dull.

But Stauch, a man of wide interests, made the most of it. He studied the weather, rocks, and the movement of the dunes. He also had a good relationship with his workers. One of them, Zacharias Lewala from the Cape Colony, would become pivotal in an event that changed the course of German South West Africa, which until then had been an unprofitable venture for the German Empire.

One day, Lewala noticed something glinting on his shovel — convinced it was a diamond. He had found it in a place already searched by Lüderitz’s experts and crossed by countless explorers, traders, railwaymen, and soldiers. Nobody believed diamonds could exist there.

It would have been easy for Stauch to dismiss the claim — as others had done before — but he didn’t. He believed

Lewala, entertained the possibility, and investigated further. People laughed at him, called him a fool. But he kept a cool head, secured a mining licence, gathered equipment and a small team. To his wife and children, still in Germany, he sent a simple letter with a few diamonds enclosed and a note: “Come to Africa. We are rich!”

When the news broke, a diamond rush erupted. “Everyone who still had some savings bought one or more prospecting permits, borrowed or bought a horse or donkey, and rode out into the desert. Within days, the whole area was marked with prospecting posts, resembling a sprawling cemetery,” recalled Max Ewald Baericke, a white settler of the time, in his memoirs.

The former Sperrgebiet is the Tsau //Khaeb National Park today. Access is still restricted

The chaos of unregulated amateur mining lasted only a few months before the German government restricted the area (Sperrgebiet) and introduced strict diamond-trade regulations. What they did not realise in 1908 was that they had also inadvertently created one of the largest protected areas in the world — where the surrounding nature has remained largely undisturbed for over a century.

As new deposits were found, mining operations expanded, and towns grew. Houses, schools, hospitals, bowling alleys, even theatres and one of Africa’s first cinemas were built. Caviar and ice were brought into the desert, and the continent’s first X-ray machine was installed — not for medicine, but to detect diamond smugglers.

Many stories of that era — of luxury and innovation — still captivate thousands of tourists who visit the ghost towns of Kolmannskuppe and Elizabeth Bay. After the mines were exhausted and the last inhabitants left, the desert reclaimed the area, with sand dunes steadily engulfing the buildings. Tourists now visit not only for the stories but also for the hauntingly beautiful photo opportunities.

Yet for all the light, there were shadows. For many Namibians, these places symbolise not glamour but exploitation — a painful reminder that for decades,  their diamonds made others rich.

After World War I, Germany lost its colonies. From 1915 until Namibia’s independence in 1990, the mining industry was under South African administration. Today, Namibia’s diamond industry is a joint venture, with 50 percent state ownership. Most of the country’s diamonds are mined from the Atlantic seabed, and many are now polished locally before being exported worldwide.

Namibia’s diamonds are not only vital to the economy — they have also made the country a sought-after destination for lovebirds seeking proposals and weddings. The “Namibian Sun” is a unique diamond cut available only in Namibia. Since 2024, natural Namibian diamonds can be purchased in Kolmannskuppe — and, of course, from local jewellers. TN

Born and raised on the Isle of Rügen in Germany, Delia has been living in Namibia since 2012. She is an entrepreneur and the publisher of the book “Ein Karat zu Zwanzig Mark. Wahre Geschichten aus der Zeit des Diamantenrauschs in Deutsch Südwest-Afrika”.

Birding has become a large percentage of tourism all over the world, Namibia is one of the very important and very popular destinations. Namibia has only one true endemic bird and 13 near endemic species which are rather indispensable for the serious (fanatic) birders. For normal people there are many beautiful and special birds which attract hundreds, thousands of tourists every year. What are they worth?

Apparently one can divide birders into three groups: fanatical, enthusiastic and casual. Obviously each with their different needs, values (money and personalities) and importance. How important is birding for a country on a national scale? Do we need to cater for birders, do they play a role in the bigger picture of tourism?

As a country with a relatively small population, Namibia has a rather impressive number of birders. On the local WhatsApp group there are 488 members, which in a population so small is not too bad – although still relatively small compared with those in the developed countries in the Northern Hemisphere. While one in about 2500 South Africans/Namibians is an active birder, this is less than one tenth of the ratio in the USA where one in 250 citizens is estimated to be active birders, and the numbers are growing fast.

According to research conducted in the UK in the late 1990s, two thirds of birders are men, of whom half are between 40 and 60 years old. So it is not, as one might think, a hobby for little old ladies with nat broekies (an Afrikaans idiom referring to people who constantly complain). Apparently birders tend to be highly educated with an average of 15 years of education and most of them are pretty well-off. However, I am a bit skeptical about the intelligence of a lot of those people even though they might have had so many years of education. With their financial status I cannot argue, especially if you look at the birding equipment that they carry around. The important point is, you need time and money to do birding, especially if you fall into the fanatical category. For the rest of you birders, your garden is a very good opportunity to enhance your ticking list. Luckily there are some very excellent birding operators in Namibia to guide you to the impossible.

My favourite part of the research are the different groups. Apparently, to qualify to be a fanatical birder you must spend most of your time birding. The enthusiastic birder regularly makes an effort to go on birding trips, while the casual birder enjoys watching birds when gardening, hiking or visiting game parks. According to the study, these different categories of birders differ quite markedly in terms of their activity and expenditure patterns.

While one in about 2500 South Africans/Namibians is an active birder, this is less than one tenth of the ratio in the USA where one in 250 citizens is estimated to be active birders, and the numbers are growing fast.

Fanatical birders will fly to Ruacana to look for an Angolan Cave Chat or a Cinderella Waxbill. They look puzzled, frown upon, look gatvol (fed up), when you (the casual birder) want to stop and have a look at a Carmine Bee-eater. In the good old days when the only bird book available was Robberts Birds of Southern Africa they knew the Robberts number of a bird, talking about number 564 instead of a Bare cheeked Babbler. They chuckled behind their hand/ wing and looked at each other with a wry smile when you did not know the difference between Leach’s Storm Petrel and Wilson’s Storm Petrel. As you can imagine I could go on forever about this unique group/species, even more unique than a White-bellied Storm Petrel. Today there are hundreds of bird books on the shelves.

The enthusiastic birder is a bit more ‘normal’, but on their way to becoming abnormal if the opportunity allows, either by education or financially. This is by far the largest group in the three categories. As they lose members to the higher echelons of birders, the group is reinforced by members from the casual group. Their normality is still acceptable, they still get excited when seeing a Yellow-billed Stork or a Martial Eagle. Some of the members of this group even know the difference between the call of a Giant Eagle Owl and a Spotted Eagle Owl. Most of them will consider getting a bird call app, some even thinking about buying new 30x40 Zeiss binoculars.

The normal group (casual birders) is pretty much like my daughter, although she is not a gardener, hiker or a visitor to game parks. Maybe I should put her in a more exclusive category, maybe ignorant or just extremely normal. Also, she is not financially educatable, and her general education is debatable. So back to the casual birders. Probably they all have the potential for bigger things in life. If you are a gardener, hiker or visiting game parks there is indeed a great future lying ahead. Once you have seen hundreds of Carmine Bee-eaters taking off from their nesting colony you will be hooked forever – so talk to your banker.

The above categories have apparently been scientifically decided on. I might add a few new groups like bird ringers, and then obviously my daughter who could be the honourary president of the lowest of low casual non-birders. Many birders began birding as a result of close encounters with beautiful birds. Perhaps this is a lesson about the opportunities we should provide for Namibia’s youth.

How much and where? Fanatics spend 80 percent of their time birding, and also often travel more than 200 kilometres from home. Areas with a high diversity and large number of birds, which in Namibia means all over the country, are very attractive to the enthusiastic birder!

Most birders spend more than 60 percent of their birding time in game parks, and Namibia is no exception. Wherever you go, the opportunities in Namibia are endless. To look at numbers about how birders do their birding is difficult. Be it camping, lodging or guided tours,

all of it is pretty much connected to their monetary potential. The beauty of the financial impact of birding is that some international visitors come to Namibia primarily to watch birds – all of them from wealthy developed countries and in the process spending a lot of money. They are not only spending time in game parks but also spending money on birding paraphernalia like bird books, hiring 4WD vehicles and sunflower seeds to make their own beanbag for a camera rest. Accommodation, mileage costs, public transport and car rentals, park and guiding fees are probably their biggest contribution to birding expenses. Normal people, members of my daughter’s association, will obviously spend a lot of money on buying souvenirs, clothes and ice cream.

If one really wants to attach monetary value to different birds, rare ones like Pel’s Fishing Owl and the Angolan Cave Chat will be an economical force to be reckoned with. Unfortunately, the House Sparrow will not be in the top 600 birds.

For the casual birder, and definitely for all tourists: looking for birds will, in the end, enable you to see leopards and other exquisite game much easier. The good news for Namibia’s tourist industry is that Namibia’s own comprehensive bird book is now out on the shelves. TN

Birds of Namibia

BOOK REVIEW

In a country defined by vast horizons and staggering biodiversity, Birds of Namibia – A Photographic Field Guide emerges as both a scientific milestone and a love letter to the land’s avian wonders. Authored by Steve, Sean, and Dayne Braine – Namibia’s most respected birding family – this volume fills a longstanding gap in the nation’s natural history literature. For the first time, birders, guides, and travellers alike have a single, comprehensive reference dedicated solely to Namibia’s birds, from the haunting deserts of the Namib to the lush floodplains of the Zambezi.

What immediately distinguishes Birds of Namibia is the depth of field experience that underpins it. The Braine family’s decades of guiding, research, and photography in Namibia’s most remote regions are distilled into 691 species accounts, each enriched with identification details, behavioural notes, and clear distribution maps. The result is a guide grounded not only in scientific rigour but also in an intimacy born of long observation – an understanding of how light, season, and habitat shape the lives of birds in this uniquely challenging environment.

Visually, the book is nothing short of spectacular. Hundreds of high-quality photographs – the majority taken within Namibia’s borders – reveal a breadth of diversity few realise the country possesses. The images celebrate both Namibia’s endemic and migratory species: from the desertadapted Dune Lark, found nowhere else on Earth, to the iridescent Carmine Bee-eaters that line the Zambezi River’s banks. The photography does more than illustrate; it captures moments of motion, courtship, and survival, making this as much an art book as a field guide.

Beyond its scientific and visual value, Birds of Namibia functions as a tribute to place and attempts to find interesting new ways in helping birders, both experienced and beginners, identify species based on location or behaviour. In doing so, the book reminds readers that birdwatching in

Namibia is not merely a pastime; it is an act of connection to the living landscape.

The guide’s design and structure enhance its usability in the field. Distribution maps and the concise notes on habitat, calls, and distinguishing features make quick identification possible even for amateurs. Yet there is enough depth to satisfy professional ornithologists and tour guides. The balance between accessibility and authority is one of the book’s greatest achievements.

Ultimately, Birds of Namibia – A Photographic Field Guide is more than a reference – it is a celebration. It pays homage to Namibia’s wild spaces, its people, and the photographers who have captured these fleeting moments of feather and flight. For lodges, guides, conservationists, or simply those who find joy in the sound of birdcall against a desert dawn, this book will become an indispensable companion. It stands as both a record and a reminder: that to know a country’s birds is to know its soul and is a true reflection of your depth of love for nature. TN

Order now at bonn@venture.com.na

Simanya River Lodge

Where the River Slows Time

There’s a stretch of Namibia where time slows to the gentle rhythm of river flow –where the land hums with ancient culture and the sunsets seem to melt straight into the water. On the banks of the Kavango River, in the remote northeast, Simanya River Lodge has quietly redefined luxury in one of the country’s least explored regions.

A sister property to the beloved Droombos near Windhoek, Simanya carries the same commitment to excellence –only here, it is deeply rooted in the lush riparian landscapes of Kavango West. Just 13 kilometres from the border town of Nkurenkuru, and an easy six-hour drive from the capital along the scenic B15 “Timber Route” from Tsumeb via Tsintsibis and Mpungu to the B11, Simanya is the only upmarket lodge within a 130 km radius – a true hidden treasure in Namibia’s untouched north.

Every suite and villa faces the river, offering uninterrupted water views. Mornings unfold with mist rising off the Kavango, while evenings drift into fiery sunsets mirrored in the current. It’s not just picturesque – it’s soul-stilling.

Then there’s The Fancy Fisherman, Simanya’s signature pub. It’s where stories flow as easily as the local craft gin, where fireside meals turn strangers into companions, and where fishermen, travellers, and storytellers come together under a sky stitched with stars.

But Simanya is more than a place to unwind – it’s an experience. Guests can embark on a sunset cruise, drift silently past fishermen casting nets from dugout canoes, or enjoy fishing excursions led by local experts aboard Simanya’s own boat. On land, the adventure continues with guided village visits that offer a glimpse into Kavango’s vibrant traditions, or even a nostalgic donkey cart ride

through nearby settlements. Every day holds the promise of discovery, whether on the river, along its banks, or within the welcoming rhythm of local life.

For corporate groups or special events, the lodge offers curated experiences – from riverside banquets to intimate strategy sessions beneath the trees. And for those who prefer a wilder touch, Simanya Basecamp welcomes campers and overlanders with ten grassed sites, private ablutions, braai facilities, and a nearby supply store stocked with essentials – from ice and wood to vacuumsealed meat.

Behind the scenes, Simanya’s logistics are as seamless as its scenery. Flight bookings, car rentals, and even crossborder arrangements for Angolan guests are handled with ease. Personalised welcome kits, branded amenities, and thoughtful guest gifts reflect the meticulous attention to detail that defines the Droombos ethos.

What Simanya offers is not just a lodge stay – it’s a threshold into a slower, more elemental Namibia. One where the river becomes a guide, the people a story, and the landscape a quiet reminder that the best journeys don’t end where the road does, but where the water begins.

How to get there:

Though Simanya may feel like a world apart, getting there is part of the magic. Travellers departing from Etosha National Park’s eastern gate at Namutoni or Von Lindequist can connect with the B15 “Timber Route”, a scenic journey from Tsumeb via Tsintsibis and Mpungu to the B11. The road winds through verdant woodland, traditional villages, and baobab-studded horizons – transforming the drive into a story of its own. In just a few hours, travellers swap elephant herds for dugout canoes, and mopane forests for mango groves, making Simanya River Lodge the perfect complement to any northern Namibian adventure. TN

Droombos Estate

Where MICE Becomes Meaningful

Just minutes from Windhoek and yet worlds away from its pace, Droombos Estate has become synonymous with refined hospitality and meaningful experiences. In 2025, Droombos was honoured with three national awards at the Best of Namibia Awards for Best Event Catering, Best Conference and Corporate Event Venue, and Best Wedding Venue, a testament to its dedication to quality, detail, and distinction. This recognition was further elevated by a nomination for the World Luxury Travel Awards, positioning Droombos among Africa’s leading destinations for both corporate and leisure travellers.

At Droombos, every experience begins with intention. Whether it is a summit among ancient trees, a garden wedding beneath the stars, or an executive retreat in complete privacy, the estate delivers events that define themselves. With hybrid ready infrastructure, versatile venues, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Droombos transforms the way people meet, connect, and celebrate.

The Restaurant – Dining as an Experience

Dining at Droombos is a journey that celebrates Namibia’s landscape, ingredients, and spirit. The Droombos Restaurant offers a refined yet welcoming space where every plate tells a story of craftsmanship and creativity. Guests can dine beneath the canopy of century old trees or within elegant interiors that balance natural textures and modern sophistication. Each menu is curated seasonally, featuring locally sourced produce and global inspirations, creating dishes that are as thoughtful as they are memorable. Here, dining is more than a meal, it is a slow, sensory celebration of the present moment.

The Pub – Where Stories Unfold

The Rosewood Pub captures the essence of camaraderie and casual elegance. With its dark wood interiors, copper accents, and warm lighting, it is both timeless and intimate. Whether guests gather after a conference, a countryside ride, or a long day in the city, the pub becomes a space where stories are exchanged over a glass of fine wine, craft

gin, or an expertly poured cocktail. Live music and good company complete the atmosphere, inviting guests to linger, laugh, and reconnect.

The Rooms – A Retreat for Mind and Body

Droombos’ accommodation is designed with tranquility in mind. Each room offers an effortless blend of modern comfort and natural serenity, featuring elegant interiors, garden or mountain views, and amenities curated for rest and clarity. Guests travelling for business will find optional workspaces and high speed connectivity, while those in search of peace will find renewal in soft linens, spacious bathrooms, and the quiet hum of nature outside their window. Every stay reflects the estate’s philosophy of calm, connection, and considered comfort.

The Spirit of Droombos

Beyond its physical beauty, Droombos thrives on atmosphere, a balance of creativity, precision, and heart. It is where meetings inspire, meals linger, and moments restore. With more than 14 versatile venues, the estate seamlessly merges architecture and nature to create environments that invite inspiration and reflection. Whether hosting a corporate board meeting, a culinary evening, or a garden wedding, Droombos is where MICE becomes meaningful and hospitality becomes art.

reservations@droombos.com.na www.droombos.com.na

Simplifying Life

PRIME LOCATION

Whether you're on business or exploring Namibia, CYMOT Hilltop has everything you need under one roof!

Conveniently located next to Grove Mall in Windhoek, we make shopping easy, hassle-free, and enjoyable.

Start your journey with the perfect cup! Fuel up with the rich aroma and bold avours of Slow Town Coffee, available in-store. From a quick espresso to a smooth latte, every cup is crafted to perfection.

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