Even though distances between destinations in Namibia are vast, you will always find a few minutes here and there to stop, have a chat and a look around.
In Namibia it is about the journey and not always about the destination. The destination might have the crystal clear sparkling pool on the edge of the viewpoint, offering a view over the vast unmatched Namibian landscapes.
Yes, the destination also offers the air conditioned room, the hot shower and scrumptious menu. But Namibia’s true beauty is off the road. Where, if you take the time to deviate from the plan you will find the most spectacular settings, the friendliest people and unknown, untouched nature.
A recent trip to some of the more rural parts of Namibia offered just that, off the general routes, I felt like an explorer. Heading to places I had never heard of before.
Small villages, where everyone knows everyone and children play football after the day’s chores or school. The sight and smell of fires being lit as the day comes to an end. Homesteads awaiting their guests and once they arrive one can hear the elation drifting through the bush.
Food and drinks, prepared traditionally and served to guests after a long journey. Men, working fields, tending to animals or fiddling with some broken objects, trying to fix it. Women around houses and homesteads, keeping an eye on the children and keeping order at home.
It is remarkable to drive around in places or to places, that you would never have guessed are where they are.
Historical buildings, forgotten and being reclaimed by nature. A few useful pieces missing but all in all intact. What happened here and who lived here?
These are things that connect us, not just top the past but to Namibia; if you are Namibian or only a guest, the Namibian sun will etch itself into your heart and you will never forget her.
Namibia is filled with wonderful places and breath-taking views, but most people who have travelled to Namibia, have always said it’s the people that make it so special. It is, it is the people at home that make it special. The way they welcome you and say welcome home.
The best way to experience this is to dig a little deeper, off the beaten track and immerse yourself in your surroundings.
Namibia is natural, raw and unspoiled, but the moments that we share with people will be with you forever.
Text & Photos: Christiaan Jacobie