If it is true that Namibia is “Africa for beginners” then I worry about the rest of the continent. Why? Well, once you have visited this magical land of remote landscapes, prolific wildlife, and natural beauty, you may spend the rest of your life looking for something ‘better’. But chances are, you’re never going to find it.

Namibia is a country so diverse and so incredibly beautiful that is almost impossible to do it justice when describing it with words. From the bright blue skies and cinnamon red sand dunes of Sossusvlei to the pure white salt pan of Etosha National Park, it offers visitors a kaleidoscope of colours that you simply cannot find anywhere else in the world, and when you combine that with an abundance of wildlife, great food, and friendly people, it is easy to understand why this African gem features on many traveller’s bucket list.

If you are planning on visiting Namibia soon, either on a small group tour or a self-drive adventure, here are 7 things you simply must do during your African Adventure, and while some of them may be considered ‘touristy’, they are anything but tacky, and guarantee to add a little bit of magic to your  holiday of a lifetime…

The Sand Dunes of Sossusvlei

Despite being one of Namibia’s most popular attractions, the isolated region of Sossusvlei has managed to retain its natural appeal. If you want to break away from the crowds, go early and hike to the top of ‘Big Daddy’ to watch the sunrise.

Swakopmund

Quaint, colourful, and perfect for a stopover on your way north… or south, Swakopmund feels like your typical German seaside town, with pretty street-side cafes, gift shops, and colonial landmarks such as the lighthouse.

Skeleton Coast

Magical, mystical, and a just a little bit menacing, the Skeleton Coast belongs on every Namibia travel itinerary. A National Park stretching almost 500km from the Kuene River in the north to the Ugab River in the south, it is the largest ship graveyard in the world, and the landscapes it offers are quite possibly the most diverse you will ever see.

Damaraland

The delightful Damaraland is often left off Namibian travel itineraries, perhaps due to its remote location, but those who do not visit are seriously missing out! Unspoilt, uncomplicated, and offering uninterrupted views of wild desert mountains, magnificent rock formations, and vast open plains dotted with desert adapted wildlife, it is truly unforgettable.

Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings

If you love a bit of history, you simply mustn’t miss the 2500+ rock engravings and paintings found in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Twyfelfontein.  Well worth a visit, and just a short hop from Damaraland.

Caprivi Strip

If you are planning on a multi-destination holiday, then Namibia’s Caprivi Strip is a must.  Providing a direct connection to Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe, this corridor of land is emerging as a wildlife hotspot… watch this space!

Etosha National Park

No trip to Namibia would be complete without visiting Etosha National Park. Described as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuary’s in the world, it homes an abundance of weird and wonderful wildlife, and a salt pan so big that it can even be seen from space. The ultimate location for your Namibian safari holiday, it is one of the most accessible game reserves in southern Africa.