Written by Nina van Zyl

Namibia is an unforgettable destination, and travellers to this southern African country will find themselves falling in love with it quickly and forever. Don’t believe us? Here are 5 reasons why we love Namibia – and why you will, too.

1. Namibia has the best sunsets

Travel writers often go on and on when describing the sunsets in Namibia, to the extent that some readers may be thinking: are they really that amazing? To which we reply: yes, yes they absolutely are. There’s a reason why sundowners are such an integral part of the safari experience in Namibia. It’s the moment in the day when you take some time to sit back, relax, and appreciate the ability of Mother Nature to create something so utterly breathtaking. We are not exaggerating. Namibian sunsets are, quite frankly, flamboyant. They are large swathes of flamingo pink, fiery orange and deep red, all against a background of powder blue. If you’re lucky, a few clouds will join the dance, which will amp up the drama even further. When in Namibia, make sure you set an alarm for sunset and get yourself to a lookout point facing west. You’ll thank us later. 

2. Animals, animals and more animals

The biggest drawcard for a visit to Namibia over another country is that it has such an abundance of wild animals, which are relatively easy to find and observe. We’re talking desert-adapted elephants in Damaraland, leisurely strolling along river beds; the wild horses of the Namib, which congregate in the desert sands a short drive outside Lüderitz; the majestic lions of Etosha, dozing the day away in a shady spot not too far from a waterhole, and the snorts and massive yawns of hippos congregated in the Zambezi’s abundant water. Namibia has every member of the Big 5 accounted for, with 4 of them to be found in Etosha National Park alone. Then there is the abundance of birds that will surprise the twitchers among us. From the endemic Dune Lark to the cheerful Rosy-faced Lovebirds, every destination in Namibia will have birds to get excited about. Then there are the tiny critters inhabiting the Namib Desert, from chameleons to birds to beetles, they prove that it is truly a living desert.

3. We love Namibia’s friendly people

One of the best parts of travelling is getting to know a new culture and its people. Namibia is no different. In fact, it’s quite unique in comparison to many other countries in the world, in that it has so many different cultures and languages that call it home. The Himba, one of the world’s last nomadic people, live in the north-west of the country and are famous for their women’s ochre-red skin and elaborate headdresses. Then there are the Herero, whose women frequently don their traditional dresses when out and about, including a headdress shaped into two points, representing cattle horns. Namibians are happy to engage with foreigners about what they love most about their culture, but remember to always ask for permission first before taking photos of them and offer cash in exchange. 

4. There’s so much to see and do

Can you believe that Namibia is four times bigger than the United Kingdom? Yup, it’s a massive country, which means there is a ton to write home about. Within its borders, it’s got not only one but two deserts – the Kalahari and the Namib. Most of the country is on the dry side of things – think stunning towering dunes near Sossusvlei – while in contrast, the Zambezi in the country’s north-east is lush and green with overflowing rivers and waterways. Some places are densely populated, like the capital city, Windhoek, or the north, whereas others will have you feeling like you’re the only person for miles. Then there are a variety of activities to keep you busy. Think surfing the longest left-hand break in Africa, or taking on the wind’s lighting speeds in Lüderitz’s wind-surfing competition. Horseback rides along the beach, exciting 4x4 trips through the desert and hot balloon rides over the desert sands. We can bet that no matter where you find yourself, it will be special. 

5. It’s a responsible tourist destination

One of the biggest reasons we can’t get enough of Namibia is that, as a destination, it does so much to mitigate the negative effects of tourism while making the most of its benefits. For example, most of the country is made up of national or private parks and community-managed concessions, where wildlife is actively protected and conserved. Not to mention that Namibia has a stellar reputation for taking care of its natural resources, and was the first African country to include the protection of the environment in its constitution. Its population of black rhino (a critically endangered animal species) is incredibly well managed and the third largest in Africa. Namibia impresses in other ways, too. For years, its capital, Windhoek, was the cleanest city in Africa, and Namibia has some of the most pristine beaches you are bound to come across. Not to mention that Windhoek completely recycles its drinking water, and has been doing so for years at international standards. Read more about why Namibia is the ultimate sustainable destination, here.

What’s not to love about Namibia? Its natural beauty, cultural heritage and tons of activities make it the perfect destination for your next adventure. Excited, yet? Start planning your trip to Namibia with Viatu right now.