Namibia is known for its weather leaping straight from winter to summer. Spring, on the other hand is subtly acknowledged. However, this year has been quite different, as winter does not want to let go. Anyway it is spring and you can slowly pack away the cosy plush blankets, hoodies, beanies, boots, scarves or that which you love to wear to keep warm.
At last it is time to appreciate the Namibian Outdoors, admire the colourful wash of sunset colours, star-gaze, e-bike, hike or go camping, the list is endless. Here are a few things I think you would like to do this spring in Namibia:
Head to Kaokoland in the north-western part of the country and savour the remote unspoilt arid environment. Palm trees lining the river sway to the sounds of the Epupa Falls, which is not too far away from Omarunga Epupa-Falls Camp. Enjoy a guided walk, join a rafting excursion (these are seasonal), visit a Himba village or better yet join a sunset drive to a lookout above the falls to be mesmerized by this remarkable sight.
What about staying at Palmwag Lodge close to the Uniab River, where desert-adapted elephants roam? The area is home to the Damara people and is situated close to Twyfelfontein, which is famous for its ancient rock engravings. Here you can delight in scenic game drives, Damaraland wildlife excursions, a guided morning hike or enjoy an under-canvas sleep-out. Do make a point to explore Twyfelfontein.
If a fresh breeze from the Atlantic Ocean and the feeling of velvet sand under your feet is what you need after your time in Damaraland, stay in Swakopmund at The Delight Swakopmund. Explore the Namib Desert by sandboarding, e-biking or on a camel ride. Visit a museum, enjoy a delicious slice of cake at a nearby café while soaking up the warmth of the sun, or simply appreciate a morning or afternoon beach walk, and ultimately take a day trip to Walvis Bay for a Mola Mola Safaris ‘marine dolphin cruise’.
On your visit to the south, stay in the Kalahari Desert at Kalahari Anib Lodge. Here sociable weaver nests weigh down camelthorn trees, in nature’s most successful communal living plan. Here you can view a myriad of animals and birds on a game drive or simply enjoy the magnificence of the Kalahari Desert on an e-bike or on foot. Lounging at the pool with a good read would also be a grand idea.
Appreciate a sight of the red sand and fossilised dunes while staying at Namib Desert Camping2Go. Enjoy the desert landscape on a day trip to the celebrated Sossusvlei and Deadvlei with Safari2Go either for the 10-Day or 3-Day options, explore the oldest desert on an e-bike or end your day by sleeping under the stars at Namib Dune Star Camp.
Stay at Canyon Lodge in the pristine and rugged environment where hillsides are bedecked with Quiver trees and Karas Euphorbia succulents. Go and discover the captivating geological formations of the Fish River Canyon, try out a morning hike with breathtaking views atop boulders, enjoy a sunrise walk or a sundowner drive in the Gondwana Canyon Park. The Fish River Canyon is considered a haven for photographers and hikers.
It’s spring and almost summer, so come and travel to Namibia to savour all these wonderful adventures this spring in a sustainable way.
What do you look forward to doing outdoors this spring?
Author – I’m Nela, from a small village called Ongha in Namibia. I am intrigued by research, writing and photography as it is an ideal way to gain knowledge about people and the world. And of course… to share it too!
