Namib Desert - An Ultimate Guide To Namibia’s Natural Marvel
The Namib Desert, renowned as the world's oldest desert, offers stunning landscapes with its towering red dunes, vast plains, and unique wildlife. Located in Namibia, the Namib Desert is a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, providing unforgettable experiences in one of the planet's most extraordinary environments.
Author:Velma BattleReviewer:Michael RachalJul 17, 20242.9K Shares88.2K Views
Southern Africa's Namib is an uninhabited coastal desert. In its broadest sense, the Namib River flows along the Atlantic coasts of Namibia, Angola, and northwest South Africa for over 2,000 kilometers (1,200 mi). It begins at the Carunjamba River in Angola and extends southward through Namibia to the Olifants River in the Western Cape of South Africa.
The Namib's northernmost region, called Moçâmedes Desert, stretches 450 kilometers (280 mi) from the border between Angola and Namibia, while its southernmost region approaches the nearby Kalahari Desert. The Namib steadily gains altitude as it moves eastward from the Atlantic coast, reaching as far inland as 200 kilometers (120 mi) at the base of the Great Escarpment.
The Namib is the only real desert in southern Africa, with annual precipitation ranging from 2 millimeters (0.079 in) in the driest areas to 200 millimeters (7.9 in) near the escarpment. Only the Atacama Desert in western South America can match the Namib's age and aridity records, having withstood arid or semi-arid conditions for an estimated 55–80 million years. This makes Namib possibly the oldest desert on Earth and home to some of the driest locations on Earth.
Swakopmund
Swakopmund is the favored base for Namibian activities, including quad biking, horse riding, dune boarding, parachuting, sea kayaking, and more, while the main free options are surfing (in the cold, cold Atlantic) and dune climbing.
Here's A Tip For Quad Biking In The Namib Desert
Go With A Company That Is Based More-or-less in The Desert and Will Shuttle You There, Rather Than One on The Edge Of Town which Means You Spend Half Your Bike Time Driving to And From the Dunes, Not in the Dunes.
Best Time To Travel In The Namib Desert
The best time to travelto the Namib Desertis during the cooler months from May to September. During this period, temperatures are more moderate, with daytime highs ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and cooler nights, making it more comfortable for exploring the desert's stunning landscapes. The weather is generally dry and sunny, which is ideal for outdoor activities such as dune climbing, wildlifeviewing, and photography. Additionally, this season coincides with the winter months in the Southern Hemisphere, reducing the likelihood of encountering the extreme heat typical of the desert's summer months.
Sand Boarding
People from inland locations such as Windhoek head for this region during the summer as the cool Atlantic waters moderate temperatures to something approaching bearable, though a thick sea mist - especially in the mornings - is a frequent result of cold water.
Dune 7
About 20 miles (30 km) from Swakopmund it's a bit of a climb but local authorities have set up picnic tables so the family can watch Dad have a heart attack while showing off. There is - or probably was, as these businesses come and go at the rate of a downhill border - a company that will take you up, and up, and up Dune 7 on a quad bike to save borders the uphill struggle.
Walvis Bay Refinery
The Walvis Bay Refinery, located in Walvis Bay, Namibia, represents a significant advancement in the country's energy infrastructure. Designed to process crude oil into various refined petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, the refinery aims to reduce Namibia's dependence on imported fuels and ensure a stable supply for domestic and regional markets.
Strategically positioned at the Port of Walvis Bay, the refinery benefits from excellent logistical connections, facilitating efficient import and export operations. Equipped with modern technology, the facility emphasizes environmental sustainability through advanced emissions control and waste management systems.
Other Activities Available In The Swakopmund/Namib Desert Area
• Scrambling the dunes around Walvis Bay, not necessarily as high as Dune 7! Free.
• Surf Swakopmund - a bit north or a bit south for the best waves.
• Hot Air Balloon or Microlight flights. Pricey but sensational.
• Take a camel or horse safari.
• Sky diving.
• Do a tour to see the Welwitschia plants, Cape Fur Seals at Cape Cross, the Swakop River, and the Namib dunes and desert.
Namib Desert - FAQs
Is It Safe To Travel In The Namib Desert?
Yes, it is generally safe to travel in the Namib Desert, provided you take standard precautions. It is recommended to travel with a guide, carry sufficient water and supplies, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
What Wildlife Can Be Seen In The Namib Desert?
The Namib Desert is home to unique wildlife adapted to arid conditions, including oryx, springbok, desert elephants, Hartmann's mountain zebras, and various bird species. Smaller creatures like geckos, beetles, and snakes are also common.
What Activities Can I Do In The Namib Desert?
Popular activities in the Namib Desert include dune climbing, sandboarding, quad biking, hot air ballooning, scenic flights, wildlife safaris, and stargazing. Visiting the eerie ghost town of Kolmanskop is also a unique experience.
What Should I Pack For A Trip To The Namib Desert?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, and binoculars. Also, bring plenty of water, a first aid kit, and layers for cooler desert nights.
Can I Camp In The Namib Desert?
Yes, there are several designated campsites and lodges within the Namib Desert where you can camp. Facilities range from basic to luxury, providing a range of options for different preferences and budgets.
Is A Guide Necessary For Exploring The Namib Desert?
While it is possible to explore some areas independently, hiring a guide is recommended for a safer and more informative experience. Guides are knowledgeable about the desert’s terrain, wildlife, and history.
How Large Is The Namib Desert?
The Namib Desert stretches over 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) along the Atlantic coast of Namibia, covering an area of around 81,000 square kilometers (31,000 square miles), making it one of the largest deserts in the world.
Final Words
The Namib Desert is a fascinating location that combines adventure, beauty, and tranquility. It is known for its ancient dunes, breathtaking vistas, and distinctive animals. The Namib Desert offers an amazing experience, whether you choose to hike the tall dunes of Sossusvlei, explore the eerie beauty of Deadvlei, or take in the rich variety of the desert. Nature lovers and adventure seekers alike should not miss it because of its immense size and solitude, which evoke awe and serenity. Traveling across the Namib Desert is more than simply a trip; it's an in-depth experience with one of the most remarkable and ageless environments on Earth.
Velma Battle
Author
Travelling Expert
Michael Rachal
Reviewer
Travelling Expert
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