An Adventure In Namibia

Sossusvlei

The main focus in this photogenic area was to photograph and climb the famous large, red sand dunes. Some of which are among the tallest sand dunes in the world. Enjoy time in Dead Vlei - a white clay pan located near the more famous salt pan of Sossusvlei - to photograph the dead trees scattered in the area. Not just any tree that is… trees that are estimated to be approximately 900 years old. A balloon flight over the oldest dessert in the world was also a part of the plan but unfortunately Mother Nature had other plans. (Winds were too strong on scheduled date)

Swakopmund

The two nights spent in this coastal city is what I think surprised me most. Having visited and backed by my research, it safe to say that Swakopmund is the most beautiful and interesting town in the country. It's definitely worth including it in your Namibia road trip itinerary. There are many amazing things to do in Swakopmund from observing incredible landscapes/wildlife from a helicopter, to skydiving over the oldest desert/Atlantic Ocean, exploring the beautiful historical town and tasting local craft beer as well as some of the best seafood ever!

Spitzkoppe

An astrophotographers dream!!! The Spitzkoppe is a group of bald granite peaks or inselbergs that are more than 120 million years old and the highest outcrop rises about 1,728 metres above sea level. The peaks stand out dramatically from the flat surrounding plains, making for some incredible photography and hiking. Oh and if you visit, be sure to spend time at the impressive natural arch between campsite 5 and 7.

Madisa Damaraland

This two night stop over was purely to enjoy some R&R as well as spending a day tracking down the dessert adapted elephant. Research was done prior to the trio but Madisa Camp setup was a pleasant surprise. Nestled in the heart of Namibia’s north-western region known as Damaraland, surrounded by ever-changing landscapes and desert adapted wildlife, making it the perfect escape for nature lovers. Dwarfed by massive rock formations and ancient Mopane Trees, this safari camp embraces its rugged environment perfectly. The majestic Desert Elephants that call the area home, regularly move through the camp to reach sources of water and food, truly making Madisa an oasis for all.

Etosha National Park

There is a really great feeling that comes along with driving around one of the largest national parks in Africa by yourself. Our focus here was to maximise time at the various water holes within the park where hundreds of animals congregate but to also enjoy the tranquility of the eye level hides at Ongava Private Game reserve which borders Etosha.

All the above sums up what was an incredible two weeks touring through Namibia. It ended where it all started - Windhoek. We were lucky enough to meet up with Andrew Beck and his two guests (who are currently on an adventure in Namibia) for a dinner at the best known restaurant in Namibia- Joe’s Beerhouse.

I’ll end with this, over the past 15 years, Namibia has been a bucket list destination. I have done a lot of research, looked at all the images and non of this did the experience any justice.

This country will only be truly understood once experienced!

Get yourself there! It is so worth it!

And as always, feel free to reach out at any time if you have any questions and I'll happily assist in answering them.

Michael Laubscher