The Namib region consists of the coastal
desert between the Kunene River and Walvis Bay. This vast Namib
Desert is home to some of the country's top tourist destinations,
notably Sossusvlei, Sandwich Harbour and the Skeleton Coast Park.
The quaint resort town of Swakopmund is also conveniently located
along this coastal region. The long, narrow strip of coastal desert
abounds in flora and fauna that has adapted to this unusual environment.
Sossusvlei
This unusual and unforgettable landscape is renowned for its towering
burnt-orange sand dunes, and evokes an incredible sense of freedom
far removed from the chaos of everyday life. Huge towering dunes,
the highest in the world, rise dramatically over 1000 feet above
the surrounding plains. The sands of these towering dunes are continuously
shifting and the dunes themselves forever changing shape.
| Photo courtesy: Wilderness
safaris |
|
Experience the ethereal quality of the desert at first light as
the muted pastel shades are transformed into brilliant colours.
This spectacle of changing colours and the lonely oryx silhouetted
against red dunes is one which visitors and photographers from around
the world come to savour.
Nothing grows on the unstable dune crests, but the lower slopes
are meagrely dotted with perennial plants, which have adapted to
life on restless sands. This endurance of nature in one of the
most
hostile environments is a fascinating phenomenon in this vast landscape – and
has attracted scientists from all over the world.
Sesriem is the entrance to the Sossusvlei Park within the heart
of the Namib Desert. Visiting this remote region takes some perseverance,
as it is 300km from any main highway, but well worth the effort.
Permits are necessary to enter the park, which is open from sunup
to sundown, and your vehicle is registered in and out.
Tamba Africa recommends
| Photo courtesy: Wilderness
safaris |
|
4x4 safaris: these centre on early morning excursions in
4x4 vehicles to the magnificent Sossusvlei dunes and the vlei itself
at the end of the Tsauchab River - a dry riverbed that flows only
in years of exceptional rainfall.
Walks: climb to the top of some of the highest dunes in the
world and feel the rumbling of the sand as it shifts and groans
beneath you. From here you can witness breathtaking panoramic views
of the dune seas, stretching as far as the eye can see.
Night drives: using spotlights keen eyes can spot cape fox,
aardwolf, black-backed jackals, bat eared foxes and even the odd
spotted hyena.
Balloon rides: many of the camps and hotels offer hot air
balloon rides – a truly unforgettable experience. Glide above
the dunes at sunrise witnessing the changing patterns and hues
of
these towering dunes. This provides the perfect opportunity to
spot larger wildlife from the air, such as the orynx (or gemsbok),
ostrich,
springbok and the elusive desert horses. The 60-minute ride ends
with a delicious champagne breakfast (safely back on the ground).
Photo courtesy: Islands in Africa |
The Desert Express train
Safari camps and accommodation in the Namid
Desert.
Book a Namib desert safari experience through
us.
Namibia | Caprivi
| Desert | Skeleton
coast | Swakopmund | Etosha
Park | accommodation
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