Written by Daryll Williams

Vast, dry, and desolate, yet bursting with life. Desert abundance might seem like an oxymoron, but in Namibia, that phrase rings true. Here, desert-adapted elephants make epic journeys across expansive sands. Rhinos gather around salt pans. Black-manned lions survey their dusty kingdoms. And oryx can be found grazing around every corner – that’s also why their majestic horns adopted as the country’s symbol. It’s this inherent richness that makes Namibia one of the ultimate safari spots in all of Africa, managing to offer something for first-timers and experienced safari-goers alike.

African safaris: explained

The safari is one of the most sought after bucket-list items for modern-day travellers. And what once started as a hunting expedition has thankfully evolved into a more modern association of socially and environmentally responsible travel. Today, safaris are primarily overland journeys, embarked upon by a group who wish to observe wildlife in their natural environment. It’s a brilliant opportunity for budding photographers or for those who wish to get lost in the glory of the wilderness. In Namibia, however, the incredible wildlife is the central reason to go on safari.

Namibia safaris - where the wild things are

There’s very little that can truly prepare you for the sheer isolation of desert life. While the country can appear to be inaccessible because of its sweeping, vast landscapes, we believe that’s part of the appeal. Overall, a typical Namibia safari provides excellent wildlife and game (animals that used to be hunted for sport) viewing opportunities, mostly because life in the desert revolves around water. Animals must cluster close to where water remains, and as such, every Namibia safari focuses on waterholes, pans, or rivers. Find the water and you’ll find the animals, akin to something you’ll have seen in The Lion King as they gather around the few water sources available.

Types of safaris

It’s the range of experiences – that you don’t get elsewhere in Africa – which sets Namibia apart as a great destination. However, your safari style of choice will ultimately come down to the experience you want to have.

Guided safari

If its privacy and quality you’re after, a privately guided safari is the way to go. These safaris are done in the company of a dedicated and experienced safari guide, often assigned to you during your stay at a camp or lodge, who will ensure that you enjoy a fascinating and stress-free journey of discovery amidst dramatic scenery. And don’t worry about googling all the facts - your private guide will know them all by heart.

Self-drive safari

If you prefer to do things at your own pace, self-driving is the best way to take in Namibia’s beauty. You’ll pass the journey by spotting creatures of legend grazing on the plains, and be able to dictate your own guiding and tracking schedule.

Walking safari

If you’re after a much more immersive experience, walking safaris should be at the top of your list. These guided walks on the wild side are both awe-inspiring and humbling, as you tread along, led by a professional guide, through the very paths animals roam on freely and observe their lives from a careful distance. In fact, it is also one of the best ways to be guaranteed of animal sightings. The slow pace of the walk and the interpretive skills of the armed guides will open your eyes to a fascinating new world of wilderness.

Wildlife

This is the place to meet all of the Big 5 (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino). Along with herds of springbok and blue wildebeest, you can expect desert animals such as meerkat, ostrich and bat-eared foxes. Etosha is the best place in Africa to spot black rhino, while black-faced impala and Damara dik-dik are two other special species; they are only found in one other place – across the border in Angola.

Best places for safari

Health & safety

Namibia is a safe, tourist-friendly country with excellent infrastructure despite its sparse habitation. As with any trip to a foreign country, some street sense will go a long way in ensuring you have the most pleasant stay possible. However, about the only place you will have to exercise usual safety procedures is Windhoek. Have a look at this safety index if you want to know more.

While there is a small risk of Malaria throughout the year (with peaks from November to June) in the north and northeastern regions of the country, there is low to no risk of Malaria throughout the vast majority of the country. 

When on a guided safari, your guide will ensure your safety at all times – listen carefully to instructions and follow the park’s rules at all times. When on a self-drive safari, don’t drive too close to wildlife and only leave your car in designated areas where it is safe to do so. 

Be aware that a typical trip to Namibia involves long driving distances in remote areas – you will often drive for hours without coming across a gas station or town. In essence, the only thing you should be concerned about is the potential for your car to break down in the desert. Check out our how to self-drive Namibia blog and sharpen up those tyre-changing skills.

FAQs about Namibia

We’ve taken the liberty to answer some of the most pressing questions we receive about travelling to Namibia.

Where is Namibia located?

Located south of the equator, where it borders Angola and Zambia in the north, Botswana in the east and South Africa in the south, Namibia’s landscape is versatile and marked by several characteristic regions. Furthermore, with a tiny population (just over 2 million) covering about the same landmass as France and Germany combined, the country manages to pack a lot of punch despite its pinch.

How do I get to Namibia?

When considering how to get to Namibia, by air is easiest. The country has two international airports, and with Walvis Bay only servicing a couple of South African cities, it’s likely you’ll land at Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako Airport. But you can also enter Namibia overland via South Africa, Botswana, Angola, or Zambia, or arrive by sea, if you’re so inclined.

Can I self-drive through Namibia?

Yes. You might have heard of self-driving adventures across this vast country before and they’re popular for a reason. By driving yourself you’ll have full control over your trip – choosing exactly where you want to go and how long you want to stay.

When is the best time to visit Namibia?

Namibia is a true year-round destination, with less extreme seasonal changes than other parts of Southern Africa, but it primarily experiences two distinct seasons: wet and dry. These seasons can completely transform the landscape, essentially dictating wildlife’s behaviour and your entire safari experience, as a result. 

The dry season lasts from May to October. The lack of water brought on during this time means that animals have to gather around waterholes to drink, making them much easier to spot. 

The wet season, which runs from October to April, experiences far fewer tourists, is less expensive, and sees the landscape transform into a lush kaleidoscope of vivid greens during this time, essentially making it harder to spot wildlife. However, rains usually arrive in short bursts, so it shouldn’t affect your trip too much. Read the Best Time to Travel to Namibia.

Insider tips

What are you waiting for?

Namibia overflows with sweet scenery, breathtaking beauty, and prolific concentrations of wildlife. As such, it’s easy to see why the country has become a top choice for travellers over recent years: Dig a little deeper, and you’ll always be surprised by what you find. For all its emptiness, the country remains a remarkably beautiful place to explore, where even a short stay is sure to be an epic one.

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