What to do in Namibia? 8 activity ideas

Marlène, Travel writer and photographer
Marlène, Travel writer and photographer

Taking a trip to Namibia, is a bit like dreaming with your eyes open and will leave you with unforgettable memories !
Namibia is rich with natural treasures and stunning landscapes.
Rent your own vehicle and travel in complete autonomy or take to the skies in a safari plane and unleash the daredevil in you.
Namibia is a country for adventurers with a number of unique activities to try and master. Enjoy a mesmerising moment in Etosha National Park or challenge yourself to a sandboarding session over the dunes. Observe marine life from your kayak or hike through the impressive valleys and hostile deserts. For a truly unique experience, book a tour to watch the sun rise on a hot air balloon. There is plenty to see and do in this exciting country.

  • Go hiking
    Sport
    Trekking through the Sossusvlei dunes

    Go hiking

    Namibia has many hiking trails with marked paths all over the country, like in Waterberg Park, le parc de Naukluft Park and Fish River Canyon (however there is not always a good telephone network). Challenge yourself to one of the many hikes in the Naukluft area, for example the 10-mile loop called « Waterkloof Trail » that takes approximately 6 to 7 hours..
    Or head to the Namibrand Nature Reserve and enjoy a 3-day trip through the Tok Tokkie Hiking Trail. A local guide, expert of the region, will allow you to discover the natural wonders of the desert.

  • Sandboarding on the dunes
    Sport
    Sandboarding on the dunes

    Sandboarding on the dunes

    Sandboarding is a great activity for some fun in the sun. Head towards the city of Swakopmund to rent a sandboard (helmet and shoes are provided) and learn how to surf down the sand dunes. This adrenaline-packed activity requires you to be physically fit as you will need to walk to the top of the dunes, some of which are nearly 400 ft high !

  • Sea kayaking in Walvis Bay
    Sport
    Sea kayaking in Walvis Bay

    Sea kayaking in Walvis Bay

    While on the west coast, visit Swakopmund and Walvis Bay to try out one of the many water sports and activities, like sea kayaking ! Rendezvous in Walvis Bay, some 30 minutes from Swakopmund. From there, travel by jeep to the lagoon at Pelican Point. For an hour you will be able to kayak and get closer to wild animals, including flamingos, pelicans, sea lions and jackals. A day trip to a truly beautiful, protected environment that will most likely leave you speechless.

  • Explore the town of Katutura
    Culture
    Crafts in the streets of Windhoek

    Explore the town of Katutura

    Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is certainly a small city. But if you're interested in learning more about the country's history and culture, make your way to Katutura (located in the suburbs of Windhoek).
    This small county is the best place to immerse yourself in daily life, with or without a local guide. Wander around the market and treat yourself to a typically Namibian meal. Discover Penduka Craft Center , a cultural centre that aims to help underprivileged women to work and earn a living. The ladies sell quality crafts in the local store, including items of intricate embroidery. There are several artisan shops in Katutura, allowing you to purchase handmade crafts from all over the country.

  • Meeting the Himba people
    Culture
    Himba woman

    Meeting the Himba people

    Himbas are semi-nomadic herdsmen who live primarily in the Kaokoland region of northern Namibia. Head to Opuwo for the incredible opportunity to meet the Himbas and learn about their culture and way of life. Spend a couple of hours or even a few days there, but bare in mind that respect and courtesy are extremely important.

  • Looking for desert elephants
    Aventure
    Elephants in Damaraland

    Looking for desert elephants

    After an overnight stay in Twyfelfontein or Brandberg, catch a safari ride into the heart of Damaraland to enjoy a unique experience in the safe hands of the rangers.
    Board an open 4x4 vehicle alongside one of the expert rangers and go searching for the last elephants to roam the desert. You may have to drive a while to spot a family of elephants but the wait is definitely worth it !

  • Fly over the Sossusvlei dunes in a hot air balloon
    Aventure
    Hot air balloon in Sossusvlei

    Fly over the Sossusvlei dunes in a hot air balloon

    Your hot air balloon leaves first thing in the morning to catch the sunrise. For almost an hour you will float through the skies, surrounded by the Sossusvlei dunes. Enjoy a moment of utter peace and quiet while the sun rises over the desert. Breakfast and champagne will be served once you've made your way back down to the ground. A unique experience that will be told for years to come.

  • Meet the wild cats
    Aventure
    Leopards in Okonjima

    Meet the wild cats

    Somewhere between Windhoek and the Etosha Pan is Okonjima lodge, the headquarters of the AFRICAT Foundation. This organisation that aims to conserve and protect African cats and predators like cheetahs, leopards and other wild carnivores. The AFRICAT Foundation has saved over 1000 animals since 1993 and most of them have been released back into the wild! Thanks to the Africat Foundation, it's possible to take part in this protection program and learn more about these wild cats. Hop in the jeep with a ranger observe these predators on the hunt. This experience is only available if you are staying at Okonjima Lodge.