Namibia
Windhoek
Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is located at the geographic centre of the country
surrounded by rolling mountains. It is the main arrival and departure point for most
Namibian visits.
The influence of German colonization is still present in language, beautiful architecture and
restaurants where one can savour traditional dishes, delicious breads and some of the best
beers in the world.
The city centre is a busy hub of bustling shops and market stalls. Due to Namibia’s complex
and intertwined history, you will see people of all colours and cultures ranging from fairest
blond European individuals to to striking African women in traditional dress .
Windhoek’s main attractions include Namibia’s National Museum at AlteFeste (Old Fort),
the Christuskirche (Christ Church) and Katutura. The city has a peaceful ambience created by
hills, lots of trees and grass plains , giving it a small town feel although being the largest and
most populated city in Namibia.
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s best game reserves for Safari and was claimed
Namibia’s first conservation area in 1907. Its eastern territory is dominated by a vast,
shallow pan of silvery sand while the rest of the park is covered with sparse shrubs, grassy
plains and mopane trees.
During the dry season, from May to October, thousands of animals converge to drink at the
waterholes – elephant, giraffe, rhino and lion, possibly leopard, cheetah and various types of
antelope. This is the best time to view wildlife.F or the greater part of the year, the pan is a
bleak expanse of white cracked mud which shimmers with mirages created by heat.
In November, dramatic thunderstorms light up the heavens, followed by heavy rain, change
the landscape drastically to a vast expanse of water, attracting large colonies of birds
including the greater white pelican and hordes of flamingos painting Etosha with a dash of
pink.
Swakopmund
Swakopmund is set on the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean at the edge of the Namib Desert.
This former colonial town is famous for its German-themed architecture and culture. It is
popular amongst visitors due to its old-world charm and relaxed atmosphere.
The distinct German colonial character of Swakopmund has been well preserved and today
many of the old buildings serve a useful purpose in the form of museums, art galleries and
boutique hotels. Many inhabitants speak German and, in true tradition, there is an annual
Oktoberfest (Beer Festival).
Seaside promenades, fine accommodation, palm-lined streets, a mild desert climate and
beautiful beaches make it Namibia's most popular coastal destination. It is the ideal
complement to a Namibian safari or a self-drive holiday, and a midway paradise between
Sossusvlei and northern Namibia.
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