Namibia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Namibia is home to the world’s oldest desert, the Namib, which has existed for at least 55 million years? This southern African nation offers some of the most spectacular and otherworldly landscapes on earth, from towering red sand dunes to shipwreck-strewn coastlines and wildlife-rich savannahs. Whether you’re seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, or simply the profound silence of vast open spaces, Namibia delivers unforgettable experiences that will leave you in awe of our planet’s natural wonders.

Planning Your Journey to Namibia

Namibia’s vast landscapes and remote attractions require thoughtful planning. The country is surprisingly accessible, with good infrastructure for tourism despite its wild character. Most international visitors arrive via Hosea Kutako International Airport near Windhoek, the capital city.

When to Visit Namibia

Namibia is a year-round destination, but the dry winter season (May to October) is generally considered the best time to visit. During these months, wildlife congregates around water sources in national parks, making game viewing exceptional. The skies are clear, temperatures are moderate, and mosquitoes are minimal.

The summer rainy season (November to April) brings its own charm with lush landscapes, dramatic thunderstorms, and newborn wildlife. However, some remote areas may become difficult to access due to flooding, and temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F).

Getting Around Namibia

Namibia is a road-trip paradise with well-maintained highways connecting major destinations. However, many of the country’s most spectacular attractions are accessed via gravel roads that require careful driving. A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit remote areas like the Skeleton Coast or parts of the Namib Desert.

12 Best Things to Do in Namibia

From climbing towering dunes to tracking rare desert-adapted wildlife, Namibia offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Here are our top picks for unforgettable activities in this remarkable country.

1. Climb the Towering Dunes of Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei is home to some of the world’s tallest sand dunes, with their striking red-orange color creating an otherworldly landscape that defines Namibia in the minds of many travelers. The most famous is “Big Daddy,” towering 325 meters (1,066 feet) above the desert floor. Climbing these massive dunes is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views across the ancient Namib Desert.

Nearby Deadvlei presents an equally mesmerizing sight – a white clay pan dotted with 900-year-old petrified acacia trees, their dark silhouettes stark against the white floor and orange dunes. The contrast makes for some of Africa’s most iconic photography opportunities.

2. Spot Wildlife in Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is Namibia’s premier wildlife destination and one of Africa’s greatest game reserves. Centered around the vast Etosha Pan – a salt flat so large it can be seen from space – the park is home to four of the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, and rhino) along with numerous other species including giraffe, zebra, cheetah, and many antelope species.

What makes Etosha special is its network of waterholes, where animals congregate in large numbers during the dry season. You can simply park your vehicle at these oases and watch as a parade of wildlife comes to drink throughout the day.

3. Explore the Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast earns its ominous name from the numerous shipwrecks that litter this foggy, treacherous Atlantic shoreline. This remote coastal wilderness stretches for over 500km and offers some of Namibia’s most hauntingly beautiful landscapes where the desert literally meets the sea.

Beyond the shipwrecks, the Skeleton Coast is home to unique wildlife adapted to this harsh environment. Enormous seal colonies attract predators like brown hyenas and jackals, while desert-adapted elephants and lions can sometimes be spotted in the dry riverbeds that cut through the region.

4. Visit the Ancient Rock Art at Twyfelfontein

Twyfelfontein contains one of Africa’s largest and most important concentrations of rock art. This UNESCO World Heritage site features over 2,500 rock engravings dating back 2,000-6,000 years, created by ancient San hunter-gatherers.

The petroglyphs depict animals, hunting scenes, and abstract symbols, providing fascinating insights into the spiritual beliefs and daily lives of the region’s earliest inhabitants. The dramatic setting among red sandstone formations adds to the site’s mystical atmosphere.

5. Experience the Coastal Charm of Swakopmund

Swakopmund is Namibia’s adventure capital and a perfect place to recharge during your journey. This coastal town blends German colonial architecture with a distinctly African character, creating a unique atmosphere. Palm-lined streets, seaside promenades, and excellent restaurants make it a pleasant place to spend a few days.

Adventure enthusiasts can try sandboarding on the nearby dunes, quad biking, skydiving, or scenic flights over the desert. The town is also the gateway to Walvis Bay, where dolphin cruises and kayaking with seals are popular activities.

6. Meet the Himba People

The Himba are one of Africa’s most distinctive indigenous groups, known for their ochre-colored skin, intricate hairstyles, and traditional lifestyle. In northern Namibia’s Kunene region, particularly around Opuwo, you can visit Himba villages with a respectful guide to learn about their unique culture.

The Himba maintain many traditional practices, including the application of otjize paste (a mixture of butterfat and ochre) to protect their skin from the harsh sun. Village visits offer insights into their semi-nomadic lifestyle centered around cattle herding and their spiritual beliefs, including the sacred fire that connects them to their ancestors.

7. Hike the Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. This massive geological wonder stretches for 160km with a width of up to 27km and depths reaching 550 meters. The sheer scale of the canyon, with its dramatic rock formations and the winding Fish River below, creates breathtaking vistas.

For adventurous travelers, the 85km Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail is one of Africa’s premier treks. This challenging 5-day hike takes you along the canyon floor through remarkable scenery. For those not undertaking the full hike, several viewpoints offer spectacular panoramas.

8. Stargaze in the NamibRand Nature Reserve

The NamibRand Nature Reserve is one of only a few Gold Tier International Dark Sky Reserves in the world. With virtually no light pollution, minimal cloud cover, and clear, dry air, it offers some of the planet’s most spectacular stargazing opportunities.

Here you can witness the Milky Way in all its glory, spot the Southern Cross constellation, and see stars so numerous they seem to blanket the entire sky. Many lodges in the area offer stargazing experiences with powerful telescopes and knowledgeable guides.

9. Explore the Ghost Town of Kolmanskop

Once a thriving diamond mining town, Kolmanskop is now a fascinating ghost town being slowly reclaimed by the desert. Founded in the early 1900s during the diamond rush, it was abandoned by the 1950s when richer diamond deposits were found elsewhere.

Today, visitors can wander through sand-filled buildings that once housed a hospital, ballroom, school, and elegant homes. The surreal sight of desert dunes flowing through doorways and windows makes for unforgettable photography. The town is located near Lüderitz and requires a permit to visit.

10. Track Desert-Adapted Wildlife in Damaraland

Damaraland’s rugged, arid landscapes are home to remarkable wildlife that has adapted to survive in these harsh conditions. The region is famous for its desert-adapted elephants, black rhinos, and lions – rare subspecies that have evolved special behaviors to thrive where others could not.

Tracking these animals with experienced guides is an unforgettable experience that offers insights into their unique adaptations and conservation challenges. The dramatic scenery of Damaraland, with its table mountains, ancient volcanic features, and striking rock formations like those at Spitzkoppe, adds to the appeal.

11. Sample Namibian Cuisine

Namibian cuisine reflects the country’s diverse cultural influences and abundant game. Meat features prominently, with game species like oryx, kudu, and springbok offering lean, flavorful alternatives to conventional meats. Biltong (dried, cured meat) is a popular snack throughout the country.

In coastal towns like Swakopmund, fresh seafood is a highlight, while German colonial influence is evident in dishes like sauerkraut and excellent local beer. Don’t miss trying kapana (grilled meat sold at markets) for an authentic local experience.

12. Drive the Stunning Skeleton Coast Road

The coastal road between Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast National Park offers some of Namibia’s most dramatic scenery. As you drive north, you’ll witness the stark meeting of desert and ocean, with fog rolling in from the Atlantic creating an eerie atmosphere.

Stop at Cape Cross to see one of the world’s largest Cape fur seal colonies, where thousands of seals bask on the beaches. The journey also takes you past shipwrecks, whale bones, and endless stretches of pristine, desolate coastline that epitomize the wild beauty of Namibia.

Where to Stay in Namibia

Namibia offers accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to comfortable campsites. In remote areas, lodges are often the only option and provide not only a place to sleep but also guided activities, meals, and local expertise.

Practical Tips for Visiting Namibia

Safety in Namibia

Namibia is generally considered one of Africa’s safest countries for travelers. Violent crime is rare, especially in tourist areas. However, standard travel precautions apply – keep valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings in urban areas, and avoid walking alone at night in cities.

The greatest safety risks in Namibia are related to road travel and the natural environment. Drive carefully on gravel roads, never drive at night outside urban areas, and always carry plenty of water when traveling in remote regions.

Cultural Etiquette

Namibians are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. When visiting rural communities or indigenous groups, it’s important to show respect for local customs. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people, dress modestly in villages, and follow your guide’s advice regarding appropriate behavior.

Small gifts of food or useful items are appreciated when visiting remote communities, but avoid giving money or sweets directly to children as this can encourage begging.

Activities & Tours in Namibia

While self-drive exploration is popular in Namibia, guided tours and activities can enhance your experience by providing expert knowledge, access to remote areas, and specialized equipment for adventures.

Experience the Magic of Namibia

Namibia offers a rare combination of accessible wilderness, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences that make it one of Africa’s most rewarding destinations. From the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha, the country presents a diversity of experiences that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

What makes Namibia truly special is not just its natural wonders but the sense of space and silence that pervades much of the country. In our increasingly crowded world, the opportunity to stand alone amid vast, ancient landscapes is becoming increasingly precious – and Namibia offers this experience in abundance.

Whether you’re planning a self-drive adventure, a luxury lodge-hopping journey, or a combination of both, Namibia welcomes you with open arms and endless horizons. The only question that remains is: when will you experience the best things to do in Namibia for yourself?