Travel in Namibia

Namibia is fast becoming a beloved destination for travellers and it really isn’t hard to see why! With endless natural beauties, stunning landscapes, breathtaking animal encounters and welcoming locals, this fascinating country is sure to leave you wanting more after the trip of a lifetime.

Namibia is often hailed as the destination of choice for those looking for more than just a trip but for a real and authentic experience. Discover Namibia’s well-kept secrets whilst staying with the San people and seeing how they live as a nomadic tribe in Namibia’s wild landscapes. Get up close and personal with Namibia’s most famous residents: its spectacular wildlife, on a Safari tour like no other that delves far beyond a conventional Safari and allows you to discover local life and a truly unique experience.

Why go to Namibia with a local travel agent?

When booking a trip to an unknown location, choosing just where to go and what to see can be an extremely daunting prospect. In Namibia, things are no different and, as a relatively new tourist destination, even some tour providers may not know where to start. That is exactly why, here at Evaneos, we never underestimate local knowledge.

The local agent is the best person who knows the realities of the destination and can offer you genuine advice when organising your trip. They will be able to tell you exactly what is relevant and what is not as well as giving you handy tips and pointing out hidden gems and well-kept secrets that other tourists may never get to see. We connect you with one of our hand-picked agents in Namibia and together you will co-create the trip of a lifetime!

What are the most popular things to do in Namibia?

Namibia has so much to offer and so this is not a straightforward question. In terms of what most visitors from the UK are always keen on seeing and which experiences are the most popular, here are our top 5 picks:

• A safari is unbeatable! You get to experience Namibia’s incredible wildlife up close and personal, and in the setting of the dramatic Namibian landscape.
• Feel on top of the world, whilst walking along the highest dunes on the planet.
• Get a feel for the experience of everyday life as a Namibian local. Namibia is home to many indigenous tribes and so you’ll be able to get a fascinating insight into the lives of the San people, for instance, and how they live in the wilderness.
• Birdwatching tours are incredibly popular. Places such as Etosha National Park offer stunning views of Namibian landscapes as well as encounters with the famous birds and other animals of Africa!
• Activities along the coast are also immensely popular. Why not kayak around pelican point with the hundreds of sea lions that live there?

When is the best time of the year to go to Namibia?

Whilst Namibia may conjure images of a scorching and unforgiving climate, it has a very pleasant climate from April until November. During the rainy season from December until March, however, the country is inundated with rain and so we would recommend ruling out this period since many activities are ruled out by the rain. If you have allergies, it is best to go either in April or in November to avoid the very dry part of the year. Even the rainy season has its benefits though, with this being an incredible time to see the country’s multitude of flora and fauna.

What is the most unique off the beaten track experience in Namibia?

If you really want a unique experience that not many will get, then why not spend some time with the indigenous tribes of Namibia and learn about life as a San bushman or a Himba tribeswoman. These tribes have managed to avoid too much outside influence and so they live just as their ancestors did and they certainly don’t put on a show for the tourists. If its nature, rather than people, that interests you, our guides recommend travelling to the Kunene area, in the North West of the country and visiting its ephemeral river beds - although this is not recommended without a guide!

Is Namibia safe to travel and what to avoid in order to stay safe?

Unlike some areas of Africa, Namibia is generally considered to be quite a safe country, especially in the bush where our agents spend a lot of the duration of their tours. As with any destination, there are a few areas of the larger towns where common sense must prevail but on the whole, Namibia is very safe. If you do have some reservations, a guide is the perfect option for you and will be able to reassure you as well as inform you if there are any areas that they would recommend steering clear of.

What is the wildlife like in Namibia?

Namibian wildlife is amazing, diverse and totally unique. Most of the species in Namibia have evolved to equip themselves for the harsh environment of the desert and as such have specific adaptations that you won’t see anywhere else. Although Africa’s most famous residents such as Elephants and Lions are synonymous with African Safaris, you will see how even these well-known animals have specially adapted to life in the Namibian desert. Not only will you see these, you will also get to see rhinos, chameleons, geckos roaming oryx, and everything in between!

The time of year and location be factors that may change which animals you see but many claim that the wildlife is the most spectacular thing about this incredible destination and so memorable that you’ll be dreaming about returning for years to come, no matter where or when you go!

Which efforts are being taken to conserve Namibia’s wildlife, landscapes and local communities?

The community based natural resources management that Namibia has developed is totally specific to this country but yet has become a model for the rest of the world. Local people both protect and benefit from the wildlife and so the Namibian model for sustainability is one of codependence between man and nature. There are no fences and everything is left to be as wild as it possibly can be, with the animals left to their own devices so that they can be appreciated in their truly natural habitat.

Namibia has also worked hard to develop sustainable options for accommodations and tourist structures, with eco-lodges and the like in abundance all over the country. Local guides also support these structures and there are systems in place to favour these sustainable options meaning that Namibia’s astounding sustainability and conservation work will only continue.

Which national parks and safaris can be recommended in Namibia?

A safari in the Kunene region in the North West would have to be among the top recommendations. This region offers not just a Safari experience but an unforgettable experience of the landscape and the people as well as the wildlife. The terrain can sometimes be a bit demanding so if you’re active and adventurous then this region is perfect for you. You will have an incredibly rewarding experience that will give the extra edge to your safari since you will develop a connection with the area that you might not get from a standard safari.

There is no shortage of National Parks in Namibia and so it really does depend on what you are looking to get out of your Namibian experience. Etosha National Park is a firm favourite, where you can stay at Onguma Treetop Camp after a day of seeing the diverse range of animals in the area. Your agent will be able to make recommendations for you, however, and help you find a National Park (or even several) that you will love.

Where are the most scenic 4x4 drives for a road trip in Namibia?

The deep Damaraland and Kaokoland are mostly unexplored, surprising and very scenic. Their impression of remoteness also adds a unique charm and allows you to truly escape and therefore to connect with Namibia. You will have the sensation of being worlds away, an experience that can be all too hard to come by in today’s world.

A 4x4 trip also gives you a feeling of true independence and will only heighten your experience of everything that you will see along the way. Why not drive along the coast and end up at pelican point for a quick canoe trip with the hundreds of sea lions who live there? Or drive to Sossusvlei between the spectacular sand dunes and remember this drive for the rest of your life.

What makes Namibia a great destination for couples and honeymooners?

Namibia’s large, sweeping landscapes and areas of untouched terrain mean you can easily find yourself alone if you want to. The charm of Namibia’s range of accommodation choices from authentic safari lodges to luxurious, boutique guest houses make it the perfect destination for couples and honeymooners.

You’ll be able to find the perfect balance between relaxing together as a couple and exploring everything that this devastatingly beautiful country can offer you and your significant other. Flit from thrilling safari adventure to pampering yourselves with a spa day to exploring local culture, cuisine and history together.

What are the activities Namibia offers for a family with children or teenagers?

A family Namibian field trip is all about adventuring together as a family. There’s no better way to bond all-together then discovering the country’s unbelievable animals and natural wonders. The whole family will find something to love; whether it’s the close-up encounters with animals, the tribes and their wild way of life or the food. Namibia is the perfect trip to get your kids into nature as a truly incredible initiation. Drive less and walk more; following trails to discover big game, small game or the local people. Our agents will ensure that your trip is customised to the needs of the whole family, something which can be hard to find.

What vaccinations are required before going to Namibia?

Before heading out to Namibia you may need several key vaccinations, including; Hepatitis A and B, Rabies, Yellow Fever and Typhoid. It is always best to check for any updates with your embassy since this may vary and with a doctor as well as making sure your routine vaccinations are up to date.