Namibia Overland Safari Adventure Beckons You
If you’re making plans to travel to Africa but aren’t quite sure where to head to first, go explore Namibia. It is one of the most diverse and intriguing countries in the world and is a top-notch travel destination for those seeking an experience that is beyond your wildest imagination. All in all, there is never a dull moment in this one-of-a-kind country located in the south-western part of Africa.
Even though Namibia is sparsely populated and perhaps one of the least known countries in the southern part of Africa, it does not fall short when it comes to offering you a Namibia safari of a lifetime. The enormous distances and epic landscapes of this open spaced country is sure to leave you mesmerised.
An overland safari in Namibia comes highly recommended. It gives you ample opportunity to explore all there is to explore in your own time and at your own pace.
The nature reserves and game parks that beckon
Namibia may be vast and require you to travel long distances, but this is certainly worth all the effort as there is so much to see and explore. Spread through the country, on an astounding scale, nature reserves and game parks make up about 18% of the entire surface area of the country. Luckily, you can easily take a rental Namibia car to explore and discover the wildlife, culture and natural scenery across the country.
While the Fish River Canyon and Namib-Naukluft Park are renowned for their natural beauty and are places where landscape takes precedence, there are many other must-see highlights too.
You simply must visit Sossusvlei and Kolmanskop to the south as well as the enchanting and wild coastlines of Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast. Heading to Spitzkoppe puts you in contact with the most outwardly landscapes while the rich plains of the unspoiled Capri Strip boast tropical rivers and wildlife. These destinations should definitely be a part of your Namibia overland safari expedition.
The national parks in Namibia
Other than game parks and nature reserves that you can explore in your rental Namibia car, there are also national parks that are sure to catch your attention.
- The gigantic Etosha National Park is a popular favourite. This park focuses exclusively on wildlife and offers you some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa.
- Other popular favourites to add your Namibia overland safari include the Bwabwata National Park and the Dorob National Park. These parks offer some of the best scenic views.
- The Cape Cross Seal Reserve, as well as the Daan Viljoen Game Park, are ideal stops for travellers wanting tranquillity and picturesque views.
- The Gross-Barmen Hot Springs is one of Namibia’s earliest mission stations while the Namib-Naukluft Park is the largest conservation area that comes with some of the most iconic attractions.
- The Mangetti National Park is one of the latest national parks that safeguards wildlife as well as vegetation in its natural splendour.
All in all, every one of Namibia’s national parks is a treat offering you a glimpse of exotic landscape as well as natural beauty and wildlife.
How is Namibia so similar and yet so different from Botswana
When you Explore Namibia, you realise just how similar it is to Botswana.
- Both places are well known for its wildlife, nature reserves and parks.
- Both possess vast open spaces and work to offer travellers a thorough and distinguished African wildlife and adventure experience.
- And while 18% of Namibia is dedicated to nature reserves and game parks, nearly 17% of Botswana is converted to national parks, again a close call.
Let’s take a look at what sets these two countries apart
While Namibia is quite similar to Botswana which is a rambling African wilderness of wetlands, deserts and savannah, they are polar opposites as safari destinations. There are differences that make each country a unique experience. Both countries offer incredible wildlife, cultural interactions and beatific pleasures yet the style of safari differs considerably.
- While Botswana has stunning cities and towns in the south, Namibia is the second least densely populated country with an average of just five people for every square mile.
- While Botswana has its fair share of wetlands, Namibia is an extremely arid place and comes with a short rainy season.
- While Namibia helps you take control of your own journey and gives you the reins to write your own expedition, Botswana takes its visitors through a more guided approach.
Summing it up
Namibia is a country worth visiting over and over again. The vast open landscapes intermingled with red coloured sand dunes and the overall exotic vibe certainly makes this place a treat to the eyes as well as the senses. It is a place where wildlife can still roam free in their natural habitat. The parks in Namibia offer a wide range of adventure, hiking, camping and wilderness activities.
All said and done, Namibia is a fascinating country and definitely stands its ground as one of the countries you need to visit at least once. A Namibia safari will definitely be a trip to remember because let’s face it when the place is home to the world’s oldest desert and highest dunes; you know you are sure to have the time of your life.
