Joanna James
Namibia's incredible landscapes transform into playgrounds for intrepid travellers. Be it exploring desert reserves, kayaking, or even sandboarding. Given are 8 activities that must be given a go.
Move over the dust and rubble of the Sossusvlei Private Desert Reserve on your e-bike, either by yourself or with the aid of a trusty guide. The Reserve provides two tracks: a 7 mile and a 12-mile looping course to set about discovering the region's rare floral and faunal species coupled with awe-inspiring peaks out in the distance.
Look to the vast and arid appearance of the southern Namib desert where your love for adventure and leisure will surely be fuelled. Once inside your hot air balloon, you will be afforded a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to scour regions near and far whilst being in prime position to be greeted by species such as the springbok and oryx down below.
A good way to experience the very best of Skeleton Coast would be from high up in the sky and for this purpose, consider flying out of Swakopmund. Watch as the crashing waves of the Atlantic converge upon sand dunes but not before capturing herds of desert elephants moving in unison in search of riverbeds.
Swakopmund which was once a simple German enclave in the 1890s has now been subjected to a complete change as the area is currently an outstanding haven for all your outdoor enthusiasts. The steep nature of the dunes that make up the outskirts of the city will inspire the daring at heart to venture out to take on a challenge of a varying nature and thrill level.
From being able to feed some of the most feared land carnivores, learn horseback riding to going on walks with local Bushmen come nightfall; a tour of the Na/'An Ku Se Lodge and Sanctuary will afford the treasures of what Africa's wildlife scene is known for. Found in close proximity to Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino which has some of the best Windhoek hotel offers, travellers can schedule a visit here to truly embrace the brilliance of these wilds which are sure to throw the odd surprise or two.
Whether you want to learn a new skill or sharpen an existing one, Namibia's rivers will come across as the perfect setting in which to engage with one of the most riveting of water sports. A good way to commence your kayaking adventure would be at the Orange River which is ideal for the amateur kayaker while the serious of kayaker can expect many a curveball no sooner one has settled down to the ferocity which are the croc-infested waters of the Kunene River.
A hiking holiday through Fish River Canyon beginning from Hobas to the beautiful Ai-Ais Springs will also include the added sensation of enjoying some wild camping as well. Thus, be sure to pack well for one amazing trek across rocky terrain where the need to scramble over boulders and wade through shallow water would be but a few of the requirements. However, the colours of sandstone will greet you no sooner than you commence your journey while the prospect of encountering species such as mountain zebras and klipspringers would be enough motivation to quicken one's pace and head out into the unknown.
Yes! You did read right. Namibia's 'Desert Ultra' is a 5 stage, a 155-mile marathon that will have you running in sweltering temperatures from Spitzkoppe to the Save the Rhino Outpost. One will be pictured moving over scrubland, dry riverbeds, sand dunes and so much more and added to the spectacle would be the thrill of running at night with the help of a head torch along a clearly marked out path that may lead towards victory and bragging rights.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
