Namibia vacations

Namibia’s high-altitude capital delivers plenty of big thrills. Go hiking in the hills or spot giraffes, antelopes and baboons on a safari. This is Africa at its best.

Walvis Bay’s otherworldly desert landscapes are the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure, from climbing towering sand dunes to kayaking through flamingo-filled lagoons.

Perched on the Atlantic coast, Luderitz invites you to explore wild western Namibia, from breathtaking desert moonscapes to German Colonial architecture and eerie ghost towns.

The world’s largest sand dunes rise above the ancient Namib Desert. Climb Big Daddy Dune for breathtaking views over the beautifully silent Deadvlei and Sossusvlei salt-clay pans. Sunrises and sunsets from the summit of Dune 45 are a mystical experience. Look closely at the rust-red sand to observe the tracks of foxes, geckos, spiders and other resilient animals.

Seeing African wildlife up close is one of the most exciting things to do in Namibia. And there are few better ways to enjoy the experience than on a safari at Etosha National Park. Watch as elephants, leopards, lions and rhinos gather to drink at dozens of waterholes. Famous for its focus on conservation and ‘people’s park’ concept, Bwabwata National Park also deserves a visit.

Namibia’s diverse cultural makeup ranges from the San people of the Kalahari Desert and semi-nomadic Himba people to Afrikaaners. Join a tour of a Himba village near Opuwo to experience their lifestyle first-hand. The Living Museum of the Ju/'Hoansi in Grashoek brings the history and customs of the ancient San people to life.

The best beaches in Namibia are found along the 1,200-mile stretch of Atlantic coastline backed by the Namib Desert. Gather the family for a day of beachcombing, tide pooling and picnicking at Langstrand. Framed by massive dunes, Sandwich Harbour is a prime perch for spotting flamingos and other birds. Serious surfers paddle out at Donkey Bay to ride one of Africa’s longest waves.

From the dramatic Skeleton Coast to the plant-filled Kalahari Desert, Namibia’s landscapes are as varied as the wildlife roaming them. Discover the rugged beauty of Damaraland’s grasslands, gorges and granite hills. It’s home to iconic sights, including the Petrified Forest and Twyfelfontein rock paintings. Set off on a multiday hike through Fish River Canyon, one of the world’s largest canyons.

Restaurants in Namibia offer a variety of local ingredients, such as game meat, Kalahari truffles and Walvis Bay oysters. Feast on ‘kapana’ (grilled meat strips with spicy tomato sauce) at Soweto Market in Katutura Township. Or try edible caterpillars called ‘mopane worms.’ ‘Eisbein’ (deep-fried pork knuckle) and ‘landjäger’ (smoked sausage) are popular in German-settled cities like the capital Windhoek.

Learn about Indigenous and colonial history at the National Museum of Namibia. Then delve into railroad heritage at the Trans Namib Railway Museum. Both located in Windhoek, they are among the best museums in Namibia. Swakopmund Museum is a treasure trove of geological artifacts. Find displays dedicated to handicrafts, natural science and maritime traditions at Walvis Bay Museum.

The best time to visit Namibia is from April to October. This is the dry winter season when temperatures are notably cooler than in summer. It’s also the perfect time for wildlife spotting, hiking and dune climbing. If you’re here for coastal adventures and birding excursions, plan to come between November and March.

Planning a cheap trip to Namibia is fairly easy. While some of the more exclusive safaris can be expensive, everyday items and services are very affordable. An inexpensive meal costs about 180 Namibian dollars ($), and a domestic beer costs about $25.