Must-Visit Places in Namibia for your Bucket List
- Margaux
- 12 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Namibia is in my top 5 favourite countries ever visited. The vast empty spaces, raw nature, and unique landscapes make it absolutely unforgettable. In this blog post, you’ll find my recommendations for must-visit places in Namibia to add to your bucket list, from desert landscapes to coastal towns and safari spots.
Contents
Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei is one of the most popular places to stay when visiting Namibia, and for good reason. The sand dunes and desert colours are stunning, and it’s a perfect place to explore. Getting in the park for sunrise is a must-do, and I recommend staying in the park so that you are already in before they open the gates at sunrise. I also had the opportunity of doing a hot air balloon ride in Sossusvlei, and it was a beautiful experience.
Deadvlei and Big Daddy Dune
Near Sossusvlei you’ll find the infamous Deadvlei and Big Daddy Dune, which made the cover of National Geographic. Climbing to the top of Big Daddy Dune is a challenge because of the deep sand, but the view from the top is worth it. You can then run down the other side and find yourself in the surreal landscape of Deadvlei. This was honestly my highlight of Namibia.
Swakopmund
Swakopmund the city reminded me of Southern California. It was a beautiful city with a stunning waterfront. However, it is also the base to explore some of the best sand dunes in Namibia and one of the places where the Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean. This landscape is one of the most unbelievable you’ll ever see. Quad biking and sand boarding in the desert is best done here, you won’t regret it!
Walvis Bay
Walvis Bay is home to a vast tidal lagoon which leaves salty water that attracts all kinds of birdlife, including flamingos and pelicans. I have never seen so many in my life and it was a spectacle to behold. Don’t skip a day trip out here when you’re staying in Swakopmund.
Skeleton Coast
Namibia’s famous Skeleton Coast is a must-visit spot. You’ll see huge colonies of seals in the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, shipwrecks, and incredible ocean views. You can drive along the coast or do a fly-over which gives you a whole new perspective.
Purros
Purros is a lesser-visited place in Namibia, but that makes it extremely special. You won’t see anyone for miles around, and the rocky desert landscape makes for great views. You’ll have incredible stargazing and might catch sight of wildlife including giraffes and elephants.
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park is home to one of the best safaris I have ever done. The number of animals is beyond belief: I saw lions, cheetahs, giraffes, countless elephants, zebras, and more. If you can do a sunrise or sunset game drive, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience.
How to Get Around Namibia
If you don’t book a tour in Namibia, your best way around will be by car. You can rent cars in many places, including the capital, Windhoek. The roads are not always paved, so make sure you have spare tyres and provisions for the drive. There are some long distances between places, so be prepared with snacks and plenty of water!
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Namibia. It is a country unlike any other, a huge bucket list destination, and it is yet to be hit by mass tourism, so take advantage of that. As always, please look after the nature and environments you visit and only leave your footprints behind :)
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