Destination Showcase: Namibia Land of sandscapes & wild contrasts

Telephone +27 11 219 5600 Facsimile +27 11 268 2010/1 P O Box 987 Northlands 2116 Johannesburg South Africa

www.dragonfly.co.za Southern Africa’s Leading Travel Group Namibia Map of Namibia

ANGOLA

Oahikango KATIMA MULILO

Ondangwa Caprivi Strip Opuwo

Etosha National Park

H5 BOTSWANA

Waterberg Plateau Park

H4

CAPE CROSS NAMIBIA Henties Bay

H2 SWAKOPMUND H3

WINDHOEK The Airport WALVIS BAY The Airport

Solitaire

H1 Mariental SOSSUSVLEI

The Airport LUDERITZ KEETMANSHOOP

Ai-Ais and Fish River Canyon

H1 Soussesvlei Lodge NOORDOEWER

H2 Swakopmund Hotel

H3 Windhoek Country Club SOUTH AFRICA

H4 Mowani Mountain Camp

H5 Kempinsky Mokuti Lodge Namibia

Namibia, officially the in terms of activities, from adrenalin pumping Republic of Namibia, is skydiving, hiking trails leading toward endless a country in Southern horizons and a champagne boat cruise on the Africa bordering on the undulating Atlantic. Atlantic Ocean in the west. It shares land What makes Namibia unique? borders with Angola Namibia is an all-year-round wilderness and Zambia to the destination north, Botswana to the Vast, unspoilt natural scenic beauty east and South Africa Abundant wildlife and birdlife to the south and east. A rich diversity of geological phenomena, such Namibia offers as the Fish River Canyon, Brandberg, Spitzkoppe abundant diversity in and the unique star shaped dune mountains in terms of landscapes, Sossusvlei cultures, wildlife and activities - all in one Namibia boasts two spectacular deserts – the country. Although roughly the size of Great Kalahari Desert and Namib Desert, each with its Britain, Namibia is sparsely populated. This can own distinctive wildlife and scenery be attributed to large parts of the landscape At 80 million years, The Namib Desert is the diverging into the oldest desert in the world, oldest desert in the world and the only desert the Namib, as well as the northern reaches that provides home to elephant, rhino, lion and that create some of the most inhospitable giraffe, as well as one of the world’s oldest living environments on the planet. Dry river beds, rich plants – the Welwitschia mirabilis. geological hills and incredible vistas make for an The world’s highest sand dunes are at Sossusvlei amazing sight. In the north eastern areas, twisting in the Namib-Naukluft National Park river systems and lush wetlands are home to a Etosha Pan – an oasis in the centre of the vast treasure chest of wildlife and flora. The beauty semi-desert region and one of Africa’s largest that is Namibia can be indescribable at times and game reserves sweeps the imagination back to a time when man Diverse cultures: from San/Bushman, Portuguese lived at one with nature. and German influences to the Himba people still Other gems include the hauntingly beautiful living their age-old traditional lifestyles vastness of the Skeleton Coast, famed for A variety of exciting activities such as; Dune claiming ships as trophies; the Etosha National Boarding on the highest dunes in the world Park with its abundance of wildlife including Fresh oysters of the finest quality found at elephant and black rhino; the riveting colours Lüderitz and Swakopmund of the Namib Desert painted in hues of red and Namibia is virtually free of gold; the deep chasms of the geologically rich tropical diseases Fish River Canyon and the sprawling beauty of the Caprivi region. It offers something for everyone Namibia Access Information

Most visitors enter Namibia at Hosea Kutako International Airport, located 45km east of Windhoek. International flights arrive regularly throughout the week from Johannesburg and Frankfurt via a number of carriers including Air Namibia. Connecting airports include: London / Frankfurt / Munich / Johannesburg / Cape Town / Maun / Victoria Falls & Luanda.

Other airlines with scheduled flights to Namibia include British Airways, South African Airways, LTU and TAAG, the Angolan national airline. The airport terminal offers a selection of shops and restaurants, also ATM’s and other helpful services. There are direct flights from both Johannesburg and Cape Town into Walvis Bay Airport and Luderitz Airport respectively.

From Hosea Kutako International Airport, Air Namibia flies to the following domestic destinations: Walvis Bay, Lüderitz, Oranjemund

From Eros Airport in Windhoek, Air Namibia flies to: Ondangwa, Rundu Airport and Mpacha Airport A few light aircraft shuttle flights are available into the Sossusvlei and Etosha areas, but most areas necessitate a private charter from Windhoek. These are relatively inexpensive and save time for the busy traveller.

Air Namibia is now offering flights from Windhoek to Victoria Falls and Harare. Namibia Climate Information

Partially covered by the Namib, one of the world’s Safaris in Namibia are available year-round, driest deserts, Namibia’s climate is generally although the best game-viewing periods are very dry and pleasant. The cold Benguela current during the dry winter months of May through keeps the coast cool, damp and free of rain September. However, since winter temperatures for most of the year. Inland, all the rain falls can dip below freezing at night and ground frost in summer (November to April). January and may be common, spring or fall months such February are hot, when daytime temperatures in as October or April are the mildest. The best the interior can exceed 40ºC (104ºF), but nights months for bird viewing are November to April. are usually cool. Winter nights can be fairly cold, but days are generally warm.

WINDHOEK

Averages Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

Max Temp°C 28 27 26 25 22 20 20 22 26 27 29 30

Min Temp °C 20 18 17 15 11 8 7 10 15 17 20 21

Max Temp°F 84 81 79 77 73 68 68 73 79 82 85 86

Min Temp °F 69 66 64 59 53 47 46 51 59 64 68 70

Rainfall mm 70 80 70 30 0 0 0 0 0 10 20 40

SWAKOPMUND

Averages Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

Max Temp°C 20 20 20 18 20 20 18 15 16 17 17 19

Min Temp °C 15 15 15 12 11 10 9 8 10 10 11 13

Max Temp°F 69 69 69 66 69 69 65 60 62 63 64 67

Min Temp °F 59 59 59 55 53 51 49 47 50 51 53 57

Rainfall mm 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Namibia Incentive class properties

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge | 5* Property | 10 suites | www.andbeyond.com

Take a breather from your hectic schedule and reconnect with yourself and nature at the Sossusvlei Desert Lodge. Located deep in the heart of Namibia’s ancient Namib Desert in Southern Africa, the lodge is a secluded and serene oasis that overlooks awe- inspiring dunes and stony outcrops. A world of vast spaces, endless horizons and rugged mountain tops, the utter tranquillity and extraordinary clarity of light make this area one of Africa’s most compelling landscapes. Cradled against ancient mountains, looking out onto a broad rocky plain that rises towards Scheduled charter flights operate to the Sossusvlei distant dunes of fiery sand, Sossusvlei Desert Desert Lodge airstrip from Windhoek, where guests Lodge boasts a location that is at once dramatic are greeted and transferred to the lodge, a mere and serene. Fantastically formed rock formations six minutes’ drive away. vie for attention with massive sand dunes as the shifting rays of the sun bring the landscape to Guest areas flow into vast desert views, as the life. stone and glass structure of the lodge melts into With just ten villas constructed of stone and wraparound verandas. Cool water gushes from an glass, guests can enjoy the solitary splendour underground spring into the refreshing lodge pool, of this remote landscape in privacy. Suites are while an extensive walk-in wine cellar provides air conditioned against the heat of day and cozy refreshment of a different sort. Mouth-watering fireplaces ward off the chill of winter. dinners are served by lantern light on the open dining deck or in a surprise location in the nearby dunes. When night falls, the resident astronomer reveals the mysteries of the stars in the state-of- the-art observatory.

If you’re up for something more active, quad biking adventures, hikes and walks will let you explore the surrounding scenery and satisfy your sense of adventure. Nature 4x4 trails are available to explore the spectacular scenery.

Namibia Incentive class properties

Sossusvlei Lodge | 5* Property | 45 rooms | www.sossusvleilodge.com

Situated adjacent to the oldest desert in the world, Sossusvlei Lodge is a luxurious retreat in this premier tourist area of Namibia. Shaded by camel thorn trees, the lodge blends perfectly with the spectacular desert surrounds and bears testament to the ingenuity of an eco-friendly design.

The separate accommodation units are carefully laid out in harmony with the magnificent natural environment. Each fully air-conditioned unit offers a patio, an en-suite bathroom with shower and a spacious bedroom under canvas with adobe- gravel roads (accessible to all vehicles – not style plaster walls. Family units are available, only for 4x4’s) or via air (charter or schedulled): with inter-leading doors, otherwise all the rooms approximately 1 hour by air from Windhoek, are the same. Swakopmund or Walvis Bay.

Access is either self-drive: well-maintained A dip in the sparkling pool or an ice cold beer under the shady trees in the Acacia beer garden makes for the best relaxation after an eventful day. The al fresco terrace offers magnificent views of the floodlit waterhole where you can watch the passing parade of oryx, springbok, jackal, ground squirrel and hyena, whilst enjoying exquisite food and wine. Indeed a visual and culinary contrast, bearing in mind the relative remoteness of this exceptional location.

Explore the vastness of Namibia’s unspoiled natural environment with the Sossusvlei Lodge Adventure Centre. Choose from guided Sossusvlei trips, hot air ballooning, eco-friendly quad biking, nature drives, sundowner trips, bush dinners, guided sunset walks, archery, stargazing and scenic flights. Namibia Incentive class properties

Wolwedans Dune Lodge & Camp | 5 and 4* Property | 9 and 6 chalets | www.wolwedans.com

The Wolwedans Camps are located in the heart of NamibRand Nature Reserve. The Dunes Lodge is perched on top of a dune plateau, overlooking panoramic vistas in all directions and capturing the beauty of the desert in a most memorable way. The building style is a combination of wooden structures and canvas blinds, opening up to the desert beyond. The lodge offers the ambience of a tented camp, but provides the comfort and protection of a permanent building. Each of the nine spacious chalets comprises an en-suite bathroom and a private verandah, which connects The Dunes Camp provides a more relaxed, yet one to vast stretches of untouched sand. Sleeping stylish, experience. It offers an unparalleled with your canvas blinds open is like sleeping natural charm, which draws the young and more under the stars. The rooms do not have air-con. adventurous traveler. The main complex - which was completely rebuilt Positioned on the edge of a 250-metre high dune, during 2003 - consists of two lounges, a number the Dune Camp sleeps a maximum of 12 guests of sundowner decks, a fireplace, a tea deck, a in a totally pristine setting. The comfortable and library, a wine cellar and two dining rooms. spacious tents (recently completely revamped) The lodge also boasts a swimming pool, which is are pitched on wooden platforms, each includes suspended above the sand. All communal areas of a private bathroom. A generous deck allows for the lodge open out onto decks with superb views. safe sleep-outs under the stars, imparting a rather The variety of recreational spaces makes a visit civilized camping experience (non air-conditioned). both exciting and relaxing. The main tent houses a lounge, dining area and an open-plan kitchen where you can chat to the desert chef, while he prepares lavish meals. Enjoy a cold drink around the campfire on the sundowner deck, where fellow travelers can meet and stories of the day will make their rounds in true African tradition. The charm of the camp lies in its tranquil, intimate atmosphere, capturing the romance of a bygone era. Dune Camp requires a minimum stay of two nights and a day-safari where you will learn about small and large desert dwellers and their quest for survival in this harsh and unforgiving environment, with picnic lunch en-route, is part of the package. Namibia Incentive class properties

Swakopmund Hotel | 4* property | 90 rooms | www.swakopmundhotel.co.za

Enclosed by the restless, ever-shifting dunes of the Namibian desert on the east and the pounding waves of the Atlantic on the west, lies the historic town of Swakopmund, gateway to the Skeleton Coast. The Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre has been designed to complement the architecture of the historic (1902) station building which today forms part of the hotel’s public areas. The hotel offers the perfect balance between charming, old world tradition and the thrill and excitement of modern day entertainment.

razor plugs (100/200V), and hairdryers. The rooms are bright and spacious, decorated in Platform One, a 160-seater Victorian-style the Victorian style and most offer a pleasant view restaurant, has been carefully designed to take of the pool terrace. All rooms include mini-bars, you back to the old world charm of a bygone era. individual air-conditioning, TV’s, tea and coffee- Choose between a gourmet à la carte menu or the making facilities, bathrooms with bath, shower famous specialty buffet spread. and toilet, direct-dialing telephones, electric

Business meetings are well catered for with a wide range of options and optional extras. On offer are several venues, all fully air-conditioned and perfect for screenings, lectures and presentations for up to 460 delegates.

Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre is home to the Mermaid Casino, which boasts a variety of games including American Roulette, Stud Poker, Blackjack, slot machines and the latest interactive video slot machines. Namibia Incentive class properties

Windhoek Country Club Resort | 4* Property | 152 rooms | www.windhoek.co.za

Developed as a resort within the city, the Windhoek Country Club Resort offers businessmen, conference delegates and leisure travellers the best of both worlds. The resort’s unique combination of exceptional service and luxury accommodation set in tranquil surroundings, has ensured its reputation as ultimate destination for comfort and entertainment in Namibia.

The hotel offers a variety of rooms, from The on-site Casino offers slots machines, poker, Hollywood twins to suites. The spacious 105 American Roulette and Blackjack tables. Hollywood twin rooms are perfect for singles or Also included are 2 main restaurants - The Chez couples. With a comfortable double bed, walk-in Wou Oriental Restaurant and The Kokerboom closet and full bathroom with separate shower, Restaurant. you will be well taken care of – no matter how short or how long your visit. Windhoek Country Club is connected to the convention center and offers a variety of venues for up to 900 delegates. It is also situated close to Independence Stadium and Hero’s Acre. Other area points of interest include Alte Feste and Zoo Park. Recreational amenities include an 18-hole golf course, an outdoor pool, a lazy river, a health club, and a fitness facility. Namibia Incentive class properties

Mowani Mountain Camp | 5* Property | 15 rooms | www.mowani.com

Mowani Mountain Camp is located in the vast and unspoiled wilderness between the Ugab and Huab Rivers in Southern Damaraland. Sustainable eco-tourism and community upliftment is of the utmost importance at Mowani. Guides from the local tribes accompany daytime game drives to track mountain zebra, kudu, springbok, klipspringer and, if you are fortunate enough, leopard! Days are filled with game drives, hot air balloon trips over the Aba-Huab Valley, champagne breakfasts and al fresco meals beneath Mopani trees in the dusky landscape. Mowani offers 6 standard rooms with valley views, the distance to Windhoek is approximately 420 6 standard view rooms with hilltop vistas, 1 luxury kilometers (5hrs). room and 2 luxury suites. Suspended in your own universe, it is easy to forget that located between There are plenty of ways to relax at Mowani the ancient granite boulders and connecting paths Mountain Camp. are 12 thatched en-suite rooms... each with a story of its own. Discover the pool deck, lodged between the boulders where you can soak up the sun and take Included in the accommodation rate is the shuttle in the breathtaking views with a refreshing drink service between the Twyfelfontein airstrip and by your side. Adventures and activities at Mowani the camp. Charter flights are available between include guided nature drives to search for the Windhoek and Twyfelfontein. For self-drive guests elusive desert elephant and hiking excursions through the magnificent landscape.

Visitors at Mowani Mountain Camp can also take an excursion to explore the historical site of Twyfelfontein. Twyfelfontein offers a rare example of Bushman art, where engravings and paintings appear in tandem. This wonderful archaeological site offers more than 2,500 engravings as well as various paintings, and is probably the finest example of rock engraving in Southern Africa. Namibia Incentive class properties

Kempinski Mokuti Lodge | 5* Property | 106 rooms | www.kempinski.com

Mokuti is situated two kilometres from the Eastern Entrance of the world-renowned Etosha National Park in the northern part of Namibia and is easily accessible by road or by air. There are charter flights available between Windhoek and Mokuti. For self-drive guests from Windhoek, the travelling time is approximately 5 ½ hrs, on a tarred road.

Guests can choose any one of the Kempinski Mokuti Lodge rooms to indulge in the sensual contrast between untamed nature and sophisticated luxury. All rooms combine European appointments with the traditional African charm of thatched chalets. En-suite bathrooms with bath with international cuisine. Two extraordinary or shower, air-conditioning, satellite TV, a mini- restaurants, as well as two bars present an bar and private safe all come standard. Don’t be outstanding opportunity to reflect on the surprised if, in the sprawling, tranquil garden, experiences of your day in the bush. you meet a bontebok or a giraffe on your way to your room. The luxury spa offers an opportunity to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Enjoy modern fitness Kempinski Mokuti Lodge offers a range of and health facilities, including a gym, a whirlpool, restaurants and bars, combining African flavors facial treatments and steam and massage rooms.

The conference and event facilities can host groups of up to 100 delegates. The bush venues immerse guests in an African atmosphere as they indulge in a delicious touch of local cuisine under the stars.

Join your guide on a game drive into the Etosha National Park and catch a glimpse of the animals as they settle down before the heat of the day sets in. And at dusk, watch the animals again as they head to the waterholes to quench their thirst. Namibia Incentive class properties

Ongava Lodge | 5* Property | 10 chalets | www.ongava.com

Ongava Private Game Reserve borders on the Southern boundary of the Etosha National Park. Access from Windhoek is via charter flight (1hr30min) into a private airstrip, or by tarred road for the self-drive guests (6hrs). Ongava is one of the largest private game reserves in Namibia, covering over 125 square miles, yet they take great pride in keeping the experience ‘small and personal’. A limited number of visitors are permitted at any one time, which enables the reserve to provide unrivalled levels of service. The beauty of Ongava lies in the vast array of The main lodge, bar and dining area offer plant life and lush vegetation, including the panoramic views over the plains and the floodlit Mopane woodlands which are unique to this part waterhole, which attracts large numbers of game. of Namibia. Morning game drives normally take place in Etosha The lodge is managed by Wilderness Safaris and National Park, while afternoons and evenings offers excellent views over the reserve from its are spent in Ongava’s own reserve. In addition, elevated position. It has the atmosphere of a hides and walks with armed guides are available traditional African Camp and includes 10 chalets on the private reserve. Ongava has resident built from rock and thatch – each with a veranda white and black rhino, providing guests with the and air-conditioning. unique opportunity of viewing both species in the same venue. For those who enjoy close wildlife encounters, tracking white rhino on foot with an armed guide is a highlight not to be missed. In addition the reserve also has a good population of lion, eland, Hartmann’s Mountain zebra, black- faced impala and a number of other antelope species. Namibia Incentive class properties

Onguma - The Fort | 5* Property | 40 rooms | www.onguma.com

Onguma Reserve, bordering on Etosha National Park, boasts five unique lodges for guests to choose from and cater to every traveller’s individual needs. Onguma - The Fort offers iconic style and elegance, dramatic and commanding, ideal for seekers of luxury and discerning travellers. Onguma Tented Camp (7 tents) is a small and intimate camp, ideal for romantics looking for an under-the-canvas safari experience. Onguma Tree Top (4 tree houses) offers a rustic safari experience on stilts, ideal for small parties travelling together. The classic safari styling and is situated approximately 50 metres from of Onguma Bush Camp (19 rooms) caters for the neighbouring unit. Each suite comes with a families, while Onguma Etosha Aoba (10 rooms) is bar fridge, telephone and an air- cooling system, a traditional bush lodge offering warm hospitality while spacious bathrooms boast inside as well as and a superb wine cellar. outside shower areas. Large wooden decks provide The Fort is the only one of its kind in Namibia. It extended outdoor seating areas with sun loungers is ideally situated to provide guests with one of for relaxation and enjoying the magnificent view. the best sunset vistas in the whole of Namibia - The Fort Suite is situated inside the main tower of overlooking the exquisite desolation of the Etosha the main complex. Pans, adorned by only wild animals and hundreds Onguma Reserve comprises 34 000 hectares of of Camel Thorn trees. Namibian wilderness and is home to a vast array Accommodation at Onguma - The Fort consists of game, more than 300 bird species as well of 12 mini-suites, all adjacent to the Main Fort as three members of the Big 5 (lion, leopard & and extending on both sides to the south and the rhino). Following a morning game drive into Etosha north. Each mini-suite offers complete privacy National Park, visitors have several options to choose from when they return to camp: • An afternoon sunset nature drive on the Onguma Reserve where our expert guides explain the many intricacies of the bush. Duration: approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours. • A night drive after dinner to explore Onguma’s night life and search for nocturnal creatures. Duration: approximately from 1 to 2 hours. Namibia Incentive class properties

Epacha Game Lodge and Spa | 4* Property | 18 chalets | www.epacha-lodge.com

Epacha Game Lodge & Spa is located on top of the hills of the Epacha Private Game Reserve, which borders the main road to Etosha National Park. Its gate is situated only 60 km from the entrance to the park. The lodge opened in 2001.

Epacha Game Lodge & Spa comprises 18 luxury chalets, all with an en-suite bathroom. Each of the individually decorated chalets comes with a private balcony, complete with a breathtaking view over the bush. All chalets are equipped with air-conditioning, a mini-bar, a safe, ceiling fan and coffee and tea facilities. Guests can spend time relaxing in the lounge

In keeping with the African-Victorian style, all with its view over the waterhole, or in the chalets are furnished with antiques and decorated library, smoking room, billiard room or pool bar. in subtle, relaxing colours. Rejuvenating, stress relieving therapies and facilities in the Mystique Spa include the following: sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room, splash pool, thelaso therapy room, treatment rooms and outside treatment areas.

Guest can partake in various activities including game drives on the Epacha Private Sanctuary, night drives, game drives to the Etosha National Park and guided walks. The Epacha Game Reserve is home to 21 antelope species as well as endangered species such as the black rhino and the sable antelope. Namibia Highlights

Etosha National Park

Covering an area of 22 270km², Etosha was proclaimed as Namibia’s first conservation area in 1907. The park consists of saline desert, savannah and woodlands and counts among the largest game reserves in Africa.

Several of the 114 species of mammal found in the Park, appear on the rare and endangered list whilst others are endemic to north western Sossusvlei Namibia and south western Angola. About 340 bird species can be found in the Park of which a third Sossusvlei’s rich ochre sand dunes offer one of the are migratory. most mind-blowing sights you could ever hope to see. The oscillating crests rise to an astonishing The definitive feature of the Etosha National 320m and, with their sense of timelessness, create Park is the Etosha Pan, a vast, shallow 5000km2 an unforgettable wilderness in the heart of the depression which is a bleak expanse for most of world’s oldest desert. Dwarfed by the sheer size of the year. On the fringes are waterholes which the highest dunes on earth, ascending footprints attract elephant, lion, herds of zebra and look like insect trails leading into infinity. antelope. South of the park, at Otjiwaronga, is located the Foundation dedicated to the This magnificent conservation area offers incredible preservation of cheetah and leopard. diversity and is the most photographed area in Namibia. Etosha is situated approximately 6 hours’ drive from Windhoek and can easily be reached in one Sossusvlei is located approximately 5 hours from day. Alternatively, scheduled charter flights are Windhoek and accessible only by gravel road. 4x4 available from Windhoek or Walvis Bay . vehicles are generally recommended. Alternatively, scheduled charter flights are available (1hr10min flying time) from Winedhoek. Namibia Highlights

Swakopmund

Founded in 1892 during the period of German colonial rule, Swakopmund served as the territory’s main harbour for many years. In 1884, South West Africa – the future Namibia – was declared a German Protectorate. By 1907 Swakopmund had the largest European population of any German colony in Africa, the town was a hive of activity – a quaint town had emerged out of the desert! Fish River Canyon

Today this picturesque desert town, hedged by In the far south of Namibia, the Fish River rises in desert and sea, is enhanced by lush green lawns, the centre of the country, before flowing south into palm trees and carefully tended public gardens. the Orange River, on Namibia’s border with South Swakopmund is popular amongst visitors because Africa. In between, it has formed the great Fish of its old-world charm and relaxed atmosphere. River Canyon – the largest canyon in the southern Architecture from a bygone era adds to the hemisphere, and second only to Arizona’s Grand time-out-of-place atmosphere of Swakopmund. Canyon in terms of size. Approaching the Fish River When approached from the interior, domes, Canyon from the north is like driving across Mars. turrets and towers on the skyline appear as a The vast rocky landscape breaks up into a series hazy desert mirage. Much of the distinct German of spectacular cliffs, formed by the Fish River as it colonial character has been preserved and many meanders between boulders over half a kilometre of the town’s old buildings and homes have been below. Its size is impressive: 161km long, up to converted into shops, offices and other utility 27km wide and almost 550m at its deepest. Keep in services. mind that the river is seasonal and generally only There are daily scheduled flights from Windhoek flows in the rainy season from January to April. to Swakopmund (Walvis Bay). Namibia Highlights

Windhoek

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is situated in the country’s central Khomas Region and is commonly described as a “city with a multicultural character”. Set amidst rolling hills, Windhoek is the perfect destination for visitors wishing to get a real taste of Africa. The rich mix of cultural diversity ensures something special for every mood. Excellent restaurants serving African and European delicacies and art and craft markets Damaraland with exquisite gifts to tempt you are some of the highlights.The city is an important hub for travel African savannah with shrubs and acacias, sandy in and out of Namibia. dry riverbeds, massive granite mountain tops and tabletop mountains are characteristic of the wildly The Skeleton Coast romantic scenery of Damaraland. Springbok and oryx graze in the savannah; the famous desert-adapted The Skeleton Coast is a much-photographed elephants move through the dry riverbeds. desert coastline with rusty shipwrecks emerging Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings, a National Heritage eerily through the thick fog. Ancient seafarers site confers yet another distinction to Namibia: that had good reason to fear these waters - apart of one of the foremost centers of artwork in the from the rough seas, being stranded in the Namib world. It counts as the largest open-air art gallery Desert was one of the most terrible fates that in Southern Africa, its name reflecting a farmer’s could befall a sailor. Heading inland was not much incredulity that the unreliable spring (Afrikaans: better: the barren Damaraland is very beautiful Twyfelfontein) could have supported the Stone Age but arid and unforgiving. Enjoy a unique flight hunter and its prey for thousands of years. Here over the coastline. they assiduously carved away at the intractable rock surfaces to imprint their indelible creations. Today, you can browse amongst these self-same boulders and slabs of sandstone and marvel at the grandest spectacle of rock engravings in Africa. Namibia Unique activities

Visiting with the Himba Tribes

One of the most fascinating tribes in Namibia are the Himbas – living in the very harsh but almost untouched Kaokoland. Embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the unaffected essence of the nomadic Himba tribe which has resisted change to preserve their distinctive heritage. On tour, you will be guided by a local Himba guide.

Visiting a village displaying such a simple tribal lifestyle is an unbelievable, uplifting experience. Children adorned with bangles and necklaces sit around unpretentious mud, stick and skin huts, beautified women sell authentic jewellery, men watch over the herds; all these characteristics paint an accurate picture of the intriguing Himba tribe. Become part of the colourful vibrant spirit and dedicated beauty routine of the proud Himba women. Sit in a sauna-like room thick with smoked natural herbs to cleanse the body, Sandboarding on the world’s tallest sand dune paint your body in red ochre, adorn yourself in the beautiful hand-made jewellery and try to re- The Namib Desert, the oldest in the world, is create one of the intricate hairstyles. reputed to house some of the largest sand dunes on this planet. Conquer these constantly shifting This north-western corner of the country is very and powerfully towering beauties by zooming down remote and often difficult to visit – but there are the sheer slip faces on a traditional Swakopmund two ways to see it: you can drive yourself along sandboard or carve up the dune with style and the southern section of the Skeleton Coast, or you skill on a snowboard adapted for sand. Lie down can take a fly-in safari to the more remote north boarding: Catch your breath and gasp at the slope as of the coast. you lie face down, dangling over the edge of the slip face, before being pushed over and sent hurtling down the curving rolling, sandy slopes. Master the basics on training dunes, oddly named Little Nellie and Brigit. Once you have enough confidence, wind your way around the dune to the terrible twins, Lizzie and Dizzie, where a heart stopping 80km/h can be reached. Namibia Unique activities

4x4 Adventure Rally’s

For adventurous off-road enthusiasts seeking a holiday off the beaten track, the vast open spaces, stark beauty and often surreal landscapes that the Namib Desert offers, provides an experience not to be missed. The joy of encountering virtually no traffic will salve any city dweller’s quest to escape the hustle and bustle of the urban lifestyle.

On the adventure trails, participants drive fully- Hot Air Ballooning over Sossusvlei equipped 4×4 vehicles, custom designed for the demanding terrain. These trips are offered This is the most unforgettable and beautiful to families, groups, incentives and individuals. experience in the Namib. The adventure begins Professional driver guides, in additional vehicles, before sunrise when you are collected from your escourt the group, ensuring that the tour remains accommodation, and driven to the take-off area. small and personalised. Once the balloon is airborne you drift silently over the dunes for approximately one hour. The views of the Namib Desert are exceptional. Wherever you land (as the wind blows) a champagne breakfast will be waiting for you.

After breakfast, a lovely nature drive will take you back to the take-off point. If you are planning to splash out on one thing only while in Namibia, this is definitely it! Namibia Eating out

Eating Out!

Namibia’s rich tapestry of people and diverse cultural expression is reflected in its food. This wonderful mélange of historic influences, cultural diversity and environment create the unique and delicious Namibian cuisine experience.

Namibia is rich in natural resources and equally rich in eating establishments. Windhoek, the capital of Namibia has been referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Africa’ when it comes to eateries. Your taste buds will be more than satisfied in the capital with options ranging from French to Chinese, with a whole string of popular German and African restaurants thrown in for good measure.

On safari enjoy traditional African BBQ. One of the culinary highlights in Namibia is a private dinner in the middle of the oldest desert in the world. Experience one of the world’s most beautiful sunsets, followed by fine cuisine, under the star-encrusted ceiling of the Namib.