Namibia

Namibia, with its extraordinary beauty and striking contrasts, offers long, empty roads that show views of untouched wilderness. This makes Nambia simply breathtaking for those seeking adventure and natural wonders. From the towering dunes and starry skies that create a magical, almost surreal atmosphere, to the dramatic landscapes along the Skeleton Coast where the desert meets the Atlantic Ocean, Namibia’s scenery is unforgettable. Damaraland’s rocky terrain and the Spitzkoppe, known as the "Matterhorn of Namibia," are ideal for hiking and photography. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy unique encounters with desert elephants, rhinos and lions in places like Etosha National Park. Namibia is full of incredible highlights that make it a dream destination for nature lovers.

When I discovered Namibia is one of the least visited countries in the world, I thought to myself, “I have to go there.” Africa is by far and wide my favorite continent to travel on. The scenery, animals, people and culture never cease to amaze me. Namibia is no different! Get WAY off the beaten path and journey to a land that time forgot.

Namibia is a country in southwestern Africa with otherworldly beauty in an undiscovered and off-the-beaten path setting.

My fifth trip to Africa seemed like the right time to go off the beaten path into Namibia, known for its unspoiled wilderness. Namibia is home to the Namib, the oldest desert in the world with some of the highest sand dunes, and features intriguing desert wildlife. Here's what we discovered.

Namibia has had a special place in my heart since my first visit as a young girl. I remember wanting to drive on every single road in Etosha Pan, and I think we just about did. The salt pans gave this safari experience a silver halo glow. The animals were unique, even if they were the usual suspects from parks I was so accustomed to in South Africa. The lions had a white wash, as did the elephant and rhino. But I was completely taken in by the sheer size and power of the eland, an antelope I wasn't familiar with, as well the accuracy with which the Oryx was able to knock a stone thrown at its giant spear-like horns (and its bravery) - my first encounter of one was at a waterhole with the Gemsbok, as we know them, on one side and a huge lion on the other.

But that's not all Namibia has to offer. A completely unique safari is just the icing on the cake. Namibia is an awe-inspiring land of extremes, with ancient dunes as high as skyscrapers drawing photographers and explorers in from across the globe to marvel at their majesty.

In my weeklong, Namibia scoop, you'll get to experience the best of the country from the iconic Deadvlei and Sossusvlei dunes in the south, a gorgeous stopover around Winghoek area in the middle to keep the travel experience founded in pleasure and then Etosha Pan and an Uber luxe and unique safari on the salt pans of the north.

The itinerary is perfectly paired with Cape Town. South African local airline, Airlink has a daily flight (or two) into Windhoek. Properties recommended in the itinerary offer transfer flights from Windhoek, making it a completely seamless experience threading this all together. (It can also be combined with neighboring Botswana and the Okavango Delta and/ or Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.)

Etendeka Mountain Camp is situated in the foothills of the Grootberg in the northwestern escarpment of Namibia. With beautiful walk-in tents and outside bathrooms with solar-heated bucket showers, this is a comfortable setting with beds and private verandas. Guests can tuck into hearty and delicious meals cooked over sizzling coals and served al fresco. From there, you can take a private safari guide throughout Namibia, starting outside the camp, visiting wildlife with magnificent views of the Etendeka Mountains. A small, well-stocked bar offers guests refreshing sundowners to enjoy by a campfire. There are area adventures, including game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles and guided scenic and nature trails.

Namibia is unlike anywhere else on Earth. It’s where golden dunes stretch endlessly to meet the Atlantic, where ancient trees rise from white clay and where the wind tells stories older than memory. For travelers seeking both adventure and serenity, Namibia offers a rare blend of raw nature and refined comfort.

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, Namibia sits in an unforgettable experience setting in the heart of the Purros Conservancy in Kaokoland. It is home to the last true wildness perched by the desert. Ideal for true nature lovers, families, groups and honeymooners, one rarely gets to enjoy the complete silence and just see nature as it is. From the lodge, you can see the elephants at this sanctuary where literally no threats to their existence are of concern. With the raw natural desert beauty, a visit to the nearby Himba village can be arranged to see how these semi-nomadic, desert-dwelling people live. I would suggest doing some activities offered here, such as game safari, and taking a trip to the phenomenal clay castles of the Hoarusib River Valley. Plus, there is a special offering for five nights across the safari lodges and camps in Southern Africa and receive your 5th night free. In general, this lodge is suitable for the ultimate comfort, offering many activities. You will have the best amenities and a sustainable way of living with extra care at your side.