The world's biggest sand dunes, unusual desert wildlife and epic self-drive & flying safaris

erindi_lion_unsplash_tf65dt
Discover Namibia's stunning landscapes and wildlife

Namibia is a land of endless horizons, from blazing desert dunes to glittering celestial vistas across some of the darkest and clearest skies on Earth. 

As one of the world’s least densely populated countries and with more wild animals than people, Namibia’s otherworldly landscapes will make you feel like you’re the only person on the planet. 

A trip to Namibia contains such variety; from navigating the sand seas of the world’s oldest desert, with its burning orange dunes and iconic clay pans of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei,  to the haunting shipwrecks of the Skeleton Coast. There's also a  wealth of oddities to explore, such as the abandoned diamond mining town of Kolmanskop, now half-submerged in sand. 

Namibia is home to some of the harshest environments in the world, yet you'll still find an abundance of desert-adapted life. It is home to the famed "Big Five" (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard), and the country is an emerging leader in conservation, having become the first African country to include the protection of the environment into its constitution.  

The country boasts some of Africa's best game viewing in protected areas such as Etosha National Park. The famous waterholes within the park can be dense with wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, oryx, wildebeest and zebras, while lions, leopards and cheetah roam nearby looking for an easy meal.  Critically endangered black and white rhinos are also well-represented within the park and you have a great chance of an encounter during your stay. 

Namibia is home to diverse native cultures, including the San of the Kalahari (often called the world's most ancient tribe), the Herero (known for their distinctive colonial-influenced dress), and the Himba of Kaokoland (recognised for the red ochre cream used on their skin and hair). There are a number of cultural encounters which we can recommend in Namibia including interactions with the San (formerly Bushmen) of the Kalahari, believed to be the ancestors of all humans due to their high genetic diversity,  or a visit to a traditional Himba community in the extreme north west of the country. Wayfairer only recommends authentic visits with indigenous groups, which benefit the tribes or communities.  

With well-maintained roads, clearly mapped routes and so much to explore, Namibia is perfect for a self-drive safari, even for those who have never visited the continent before. Take a look at our Classic Namibia Holiday as a starting point. We also offer privately guided trips with expert local guides, for those who prefer not to drive, yet still want to experience Namibia up close. 

A flying safari is a fantastic option for those short on time, as it cuts out long drives and offers a unique bird’s-eye view of this awe-inspiring country. 

With unique cultural encounters, phenomenal wildlife viewing, and unparalleled landscapes, Namibia is a place that must be seen to be believed.  

Featured Namibia Trips

Wayfairer recommends spending at least two weeks exploring Namibia. Self-drive safaris are the most popular way to travel for our guests, and our Classic Namibia itinerary takes you through Etosha National Park to see an unparalleled amount of wildlife, before crossing to the Omboroko Mountains. If you're short on time, we recommend embarking on a fantastic flying safari. Our Namibia Flying Safari takes you across the country to some of Africa's most remote luxury properties. 

Where to go in Namibia

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is often top of most peoples tick-list, as it has some of the highest sand dunes in the world, with the tallest towering at over 324 metres high. Head west to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay to enjoy the fresh coastal breeze and the colonial architecture in these interesting towns. Swakopmund is known as the adventure captial of Namibia and as well as sky-diving, sandboarding and quad biking they are excursions to explore the fascinating coastal-marine environment such as a scenic flights, gentle kayaking trips, catamaran tours or a specific birding or desert wildlife tour. 

Venture north to the famed Skeleton Coast, named by sailors for its terrifying currents and stark landscape and in the extreme north fly-in only camps promise elusive desert wildlife and remote cultural experiences. Inland the diffuse area of Damaraland has something to suit everyone including the largest mountain in Namibia and the ancient bushman engravings.  

North-east is the vast Etosha National Park, home to thousands of majestic animals, from the rare black rhino to colossal herds of zebra. The Caprivi Strip or the 'Zambezi Region' is found along a thin finger of land that projects east, bordered by Botswana and Angola and then Zambia it is completely different to the rest of the country well worth a trip if you have the time or on your return trip to Namibia.

At the other end of the country, the fringes of the red sands of the Kalahari give way to the Fish River Canyon, which is thought to be the second largest canyon in the world. It can be included in a trip within Namibia to up from South Africa. The quirky, harbour town of Lüderitz is the branching off point to see Namibia's colonies of African penguins and to visit the abandoned diamond town of Kolmanskop.

Your Luxury Accommodation Options

quotes

Read what our customers say about their trip with Wayfairer

“This is the second time Wayfairer has planned a trip, the first being a Safari and we will definitely have them plan another trip. Our journey to Antarctica exceeded our expectations".

"This was a dream trip I had thought about for years and somehow they managed to exceed what I had hoped for. Could not have asked for more."

"An outstanding experience with Wayfairer, Cat and Juan helped to organise, and manage, an amazing safari for a group of six. Their meticulous planning, endless enthusiasm and huge knowledge of the area meant that we had a truly unforgettable experience, we even had a fabulous birthday party in the middle of the Mara. The highest recommendation is that we plan to use Wayfairer again and again!"

"This was my second trip with Wayfairer - my first (to Africa) was so amazing, I was worried that I would be disappointed.....not a chance. Once again, the itinerary, the guides, the little touches, were superb. I am already thinking about what trip I will have Wayfairer plan next! For anyone trying to decide where to go - Peru was absolutely amazing! It may be one of the most under-rated countries. Machu Pichu was breathtaking, but there was also so much more to see and do....let Wayfairer take you on amazing journey!"

"Our trip was a dream come true. The arrangements made by Wayfairer exceeded our expectations. The accommodations were as good or better than the descriptions in our trip documents. The staff at each camp were wonderful and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. We will highly recommend Wayfairer to any of our friends who are considering an adventure vacation."

"Wayfairer are absolutely superb - from our initial consultation, the advice on destination, the booking process, the concierge service, the recommendation of hotels, organisation of transport, advice on activities to the friendliness of stay it could not have been better. We will look to book all big holidays with Wayfairer from now on and will recommend them to everyone."

"Incredibly helpful service and access to the best facilities and great rates. Don't book anywhere else."

"Recently returned from an amazing safari trip inc Vic falls, Chobe, Okavango Delta and the Kalahari desert. Right from the first engagement with Wafairer and all the way through the trip has been so smooth. The recommendations and attention to detail on the itinerary were incredible. Thankyou on this once in a lifetime trip."

"Wayfairer and Juan assisted planning our trip to South Africa. They were very knowledgeable and professional. Juan was very responsive with answers when I had any questions at all. It was very nice working with Juan and will definetly use this company again. I have recommended them to friends and family. The vacation was perfect thanks to Juan and Wayfairer."

"Excellent service throughout. A wonderful trip and truly a holiday of a lifetime. Thank you."

"We just returned from a fabulous Kenya vacation for our family..ages 3 thru 70. Jess gave us great advice, offered wonderful accommodations, was really flexible, was willing to work with our budget. June helped us implement the trip. Thanks to both of them."

"Wayfairer organised our trip to Tanzania & Zanzibar. From initial contact Leonie and the team were very professional & informative. They listened to our requirements and put together an amazing itinerary within our budget. We were kept informed every step of the way. The holiday was amazing and all went smoothly. We felt confident that Wayfairer were only a call away should an issue arise. We wouldn't hesitate to use Wayfairer for our next holiday!"

5 star rating 99% of reviewers recommend Wayfairer. (4.9* rating & 335 reviews on Reviews.IO)

More Africa travel inspiration from Wayfairer customers and travel specialists