I’m sure you’ve all done your research and have thoroughly planned your Namibian itinerary, but have you thought about things you could do in your spare time? Besides ticking off the national parks, the deserts, the beautiful landscapes and the ocean on your bucket list, you can also add the activities listed below to make your trip even more memorable.
Camping
There is nothing like camping in Namibia, especially in the evenings, as there’s not much light pollution and it’s just you and the stars. Most lodges in Namibia have affordable campsites you can book, if you prefer being closer to nature. Unless you have your own camping gear, you can always opt for the tented rental cars like the Namibia2Go Toyota Hilux 4x4 that comes fully equipped with everything you might need. The other option for those who are still hesitant is the Camping2Go experience. You don’t have to set up camp, you literally arrive at a tent that is furnished with beds, bathroom, braai and kitchen area and even an outside seating area for meals. Talk about being spoiled! So, do yourself a favour and try camping at least once during your trip.
Namibia2Go © Gondwana Collection Namibia
Cycling
For the two-wheel lovers, Namibia has great cycling opportunities across the country. Therefore, it’s no surprise that the country hosts the annual Nedbank Desert Dash, where months of commitment and training lead to tears and 373 kilometres in just 24 hours! Nevertheless, if cycling in the desert is something you’re contemplating to do then you need to rent the electronic bikes available at certain Gondwana properties. You will truly enjoy exploring the Namib Desert or Gondwana Kalahari Park on wheels.
Watching the sunset at the Gondwana Kalahari Park © Annelien Robberts
Fishing
If your trip includes the north-eastern corner of Namibia you will be in for a treat, as the landscape changes from the arid desert to wetlands and rivers! Just when you thought you’d seen it all, Mother Nature gifts you with another wonder. This is the perfect place to release the dormant fisherman in you while exploring the Zambezi region. If you need an extra stopover before making your way to the Zambezi, you can stay at the Hakusembe River Lodge and indulge yourself in a tiger fishing trip along the Okavango River. As you can see, Namibia is also a fishing destination!
Hiking
For those who prefer a challenge and want to explore nature on foot, you can choose one of the many hiking options available throughout the country even if you have a tight itinerary. Granted, hiking the Fish River Canyon requires more preparation and time, so you can opt to explore the various trails Gondwana Collection Namibia offer at their lodges. There are different levels of difficulty and some lead you to breathtaking sunset and sundowner spots. Not to mention that it’s a great way to exercise and get the blood flowing again after many hours sitting in your Namibia2Go. In addition, you’ll sleep like a log; let’s just hope nobody minds the snoring!
Trail at the Kalahari Anib Lodge © Markus Frank-Schultz
Birding
In case you didn’t know, Namibia is also a birding paradise! It has more than 600 bird species for you to discover while venturing through the country. There are a few birding destinations where you can experience their unique melody singing you good morning, one of them being the Zambezi Mubala Lodge. Between the months of August and December, you can witness the breeding season of one of the largest colonies of carmine bee-eaters in Africa. If you’ve seen what one of these looks like, you can imagine how hundreds of them can colour the sky. So make sure you bring your bird book along and enjoy spotting them around the country!
Malachite kingfisher spotted at the Namushasha River Lodge ©Helmut Gries
Photography
It is often said that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” and that’s why we all take photos from the best angle at which we see the world. But once you’re in Namibia everything is photogenic and awe-inspiring, from the tiniest of animals to the landscapes and stars. There are so many moments, expected and unexpected, that you’re presented with that you want to capture so that you have a memory of your magical trip. All the above-mentioned activities are great photographic opportunities if you have a curious eye for adventure and wonder.
Visiting a Himba village © Markus Frank-Schultz
We hope that we have managed to inspire you to venture out of your comfort zone and try some of these activities that will make you fall even more in love with Namibia. If you need more inspiration, please take a look at Namibian Outdoor for more stories and guidance through this beautiful country.
If you have visited before, which activities would you recommend for someone travelling through Namibia?
Author – I’m Dani, a Chinese-Brazilian who is retiring her sea legs and has an obsession with Namibia. I love camping and I’m trying to make the most of this journey we call life.
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