Highlights of Southern Namibia

Begin in the capital Windhoek. Once under German colonial rule, this multicultural city provides plenty of history as you tour the centre to see monuments, a fortress, and parliament referred to as “Ink Palace.” A stop off at Joe’s Beerhouse for an indulgent lunch of spiced sauerkraut with meat and potatoes will fuel you up for an afternoon that includes a visit to Christ Church, neo-gothic styling once imported to Africa from Europe.  

Next, you’ll head to the world’s second-largest canyon for a day spent hiking through Fish River Canyon. At 550 metres deep, you’ll venture down a gigantic ravine towards the flowing Fish River. Be on the lookout for baboons, springboks, and a mountain zebra as you trek. A hike to the top of a canyon formed from bedrock delivers with pleasing views at Hell’s Bend. Watch in wonder as a canyon weaves through the land.

Head north towards a settlement in the Karas Region known as Aus. A desert town that rests on the outskirts of the Namib Desert is more than a base for exploring riverbeds, granite mountains, and the plains of Garub. A highlight here is the sight of wild horses galloping across desert sand. Stop off in town after a day spent in the desert and enjoy Potjiekos, a spicy African dish cooked in a pot over an open fire, is best enjoyed with a beer at sunset. 

End your time journeying north through Namibia to the Naukluft Mountains, a place of serenity that has fresh spring waters to dip in to and river valleys to explore. A hiker’s dream, as you move across short grass plains by truck, take in the stunning sight of Quiver trees as they dot a flat land that lead to an abundance of limestone. Be on the lookout for the elusive cheetah, or zebras as they move in groups aptly named, a dazzle.