Namibia is one of the least densely populated countries in the world. Its landscapes are vast and open with few human inhabitants. This might be surprising for those from densely populated cities, making it a great place to recharge and get inspired.
This arid country is home to the world's oldest desert, an area where the desert meets the sea known for its shipwreck-causing fog, an area with red dunes and white salt pans, a plateau, rugged mountains, and a thirstland desert with vegetation. Its' nothingness and minimalism can create a sense of peace and freedom which is perfect when wanting to get away from it all. Somehow there are still so many fascinating things to explore, like the mysterious fairy circles, ghost towns, safaris, and the largest meteorite on Earth.
Here are some beautiful Namibian desert and savannah stays:
Solitaire is 3 hours SW of Windhoek
Solitaire is a small settlement near the Namib-Naukluft National Park. It provides vital services to travelers in this sparsely populated area of Namibia. It includes a small general store, a bakery famous for its apple pie, a post office, a small hotel, and a gas station which are the only ones between the dunes at Sossusvlei and the coast at Walvis Bay. There are abandoned automobiles scattered around adding to the desolate nature of the area.
Solitaire and the surrounding region are home to a variety of wildlife, including oryx, springbok, and jackals. You might also spot various desert-adapted birds.
1) Gondwana Namib Desert Lodge, 2) The Desert Grace, 3) We Kebi Safari Lodge
Sesriem is 4 hours 8 minutes SW of Windhoek
Sesriem is a small settlement in the Namib Desert in Namibia and is especially known as the gateway to the famous Sossusvlei salt pan. Sesriem is strategically located near the entrance to the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the largest game park in Africa and fourth largest in the world. The Sossusvlei area within the park is a salt and clay pan surrounded by high red dunes and is one of the major visitor attractions of Namibia.
Another notable feature near Sesriem is the Sesriem Canyon, a natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab River over millions of years, and one of the few places in the area that holds water all year round.
1) Desert Quiver Camp, 2) Sossusvlei Lodge, 3) Wilderness Safaris Kulala Desert Lodge
Swakopmund is 4 hours west of Windhoek
Swakopmund is a coastal city, located at the edge of the Namib Desert. With its German colonial architecture and temperate climate, it has become one of Namibia's most popular destinations and is often described as being more German than Germany. Many aspects of its colonial heritage have been preserved, including charming Bavarian-style buildings that house restaurants, shops, and museums.
1) The Desert Shack
Usakos is 2 hours 6 minutes NW of Windhoek
Near the Namib Desert, Usakos offers a picturesque setting with rugged mountain scenery. Usakos has a rich history connected to the early railway lines in Namibia, with several colonial-era buildings still standing in the town today.
Just to the north lies the Spitzkoppe, a group of granite peaks that are one of Namibia's most recognizable landmarks. The area is a paradise for hikers, rock climbers, and those interested in San (Bushmen) rock art. There are also campsites for visitors who want to stay overnight.
1) Hohenstein Lodge, 2) Etusis Lodge, 3) Oppi-Koppi guest farm, 4) Achab Eco Cabin 5) Spitzkoppen Lodge
Omaruru is 2 hours 11 minutes NW of Windhoek
Omaruru is home to several wineries. It is part of the Erongo Mountain Winery cooperative that produces a variety of wines, including natural sweet wines and distillates. Visitors can go wine tasting at these wineries, tour the vineyards, and even enjoy a meal at their restaurants.
Renowned as a haven for artists and craftsmen. It boasts several craft centers and art galleries, where local artisans showcase their work. There are game farms and lodges around Omaruru, which provide opportunities for game viewing, hiking, and bird watching.
1) Ai Aiba - The Rock Painting Lodge, 2) Omurenga, 3) The Erongo Wild, 4) Mount Ejto Safari Lodge
Twyfelfontein is 5 hours 12 minutes NW of Windhoek
A UNESCO World Heritage site of ancient rock engravings that is one of the largest and most important concentrations of rock art in Africa.
Located in a beautiful area of red sandstone cliffs that naturally draw the eye and make for excellent photography. Nearby attractions include the Organ Pipes, Burnt Mountain, and the Petrified Forest.
1) Wilderness Safaris Doro Nawas, 2) Camp Kipwe, 3) Wilderness Safaris Damaraland Camp
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