Best things to do in Namibia

• Capital: Windhoek
• Language(s): English
• Currency: Namibian dollar (NAD)
• Dial Code: + 264

Namibia Travel Guide: Wild Landscapes, Ghost Towns, and a Whole Lot of Wow

If you're looking for a destination that combines jaw-dropping landscapes, ancient cultures, thrilling wildlife encounters, and eerie ghost towns, look no further—Namibia is calling. This is not your average tourist spot with sun loungers and overpriced piña coladas. Namibia is for those who crave the untamed, the unforgettable, and the occasionally bizarre (yes, there’s a desert where the sand dunes literally meet the ocean).

This Namibia travel guide is packed with the best places to visit, unforgettable things to do, and top attractions that will turn your vacation into an epic tale of adventure. So buckle up—this ride through the wilds of southern Africa is going to be a good one.

Where in the World is Namibia?

Namibia is located in southern Africa, and it’s got one of the coolest neighbors in the form of the Atlantic Ocean along its western border. To the north, it cozies up to Angola and Zambia; to the east, it flirts with Botswana; and to the south and southeast, it shares land with South Africa. After a long and complex history (which we’ll dive into shortly), Namibia officially gained independence from South Africa in 1990.

Its capital, Windhoek, may not roll off the tongue easily, but it’s where the country’s political heart beats. Namibia is part of big international groups like the United Nations, the African Union, and the Commonwealth—but don’t let all those diplomatic ties fool you. This place is wild, free, and full of surprises.

A Quick and Quirky History of Namibia

Before we dive into all the places to visit in Namibia, it’s worth knowing a little about its history—because wow, it’s been a rollercoaster.

Long before European powers drew borders on maps, the dry lands of Namibia were home to indigenous groups like the Bushmen, Damara, and Namaqua. In the 14th century, the Bantu people arrived, adding more cultural depth to the region. Fast forward to 1884, and the Germans showed up and claimed Namibia as a colony. Enter beer, sausages, and a whole lot of colonial drama.

After World War I, South Africa took over administration, and things got especially tense when apartheid policies were implemented. Resistance movements formed, and the UN eventually took Namibia under its wing in the '70s. Finally, in 1990, Namibia became a fully independent nation (except for Walvis Bay and some islands, which South Africa held onto until 1994, because why let go of a good beach?).

The Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Namibia

Ready to explore? Let’s break down the top attractions in Namibia—and spoiler alert: they’re out of this world.

1. Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert

If you’ve seen photos of fiery red dunes stretching into the sky, chances are they were taken in Sossusvlei, one of the most iconic places to visit in Namibia. Located in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, this area is home to some of the tallest sand dunes on the planet.

Things to do:

• Climb Dune 45 at sunrise for breathtaking views (and a decent calf workout).

• Visit Deadvlei, a surreal white clay pan dotted with dead acacia trees—perfect for eerie, post-apocalyptic Instagram shots.

• Fly over the desert in a hot air balloon if you're feeling fancy.

2. Etosha National Park

If you're into sightseeing of the furry, horned, or striped variety, Etosha is your dream safari. With a giant salt pan visible from space, Etosha is a playground for elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, and more.

Things to do:

• Go on a self-drive safari and play wildlife bingo.

• Camp near waterholes and let nature come to you.

• Join a night drive for a shot at spotting leopards and hyenas.

3. Swakopmund

Swakopmund is where Namibia puts on its fun hat. This coastal town feels more like a German seaside resort than a typical African city—and that’s not a coincidence. With colonial-era architecture, beer halls, and bratwurst, it’s a strange but charming mix of cultures.

Things to do in Swakopmund:

• Go sandboarding down desert dunes like a boss.

• Take a dolphin cruise in nearby Walvis Bay.

• Wander the streets and enjoy a schnitzel before hitting the beach.

4. Skeleton Coast

Named for the whale bones and shipwrecks that line its foggy shores, the Skeleton Coast is where you go to feel like you’re in a post-apocalyptic movie. It’s stark, mysterious, and utterly mesmerizing.

Top attractions along the Skeleton Coast:

• Explore shipwrecks rusting in the sand.

• Watch seals at Cape Cross Seal Reserve—and maybe hold your nose.

• Marvel at the meeting of dunes and waves, where desert crashes into ocean.

5. Windhoek

Don’t skip the capital! While many use Windhoek as a quick stopover, it’s worth a bit of exploration.

Things to do in Windhoek:

• Visit Christ Church, a charming landmark with a history lesson baked in.

• Sample local brews at one of the city’s craft breweries.

• Stock up on handcrafted souvenirs at Post Street Mall.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Namibia isn’t short on wild ideas, and if you’re looking for unique things to do, this country delivers.

• Visit Kolmanskop, a ghost town slowly being swallowed by sand dunes. It’s creepy, beautiful, and strangely photogenic.

• Explore Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world—because who needs the Grand Canyon when you have this?

• Stay with a Himba community and learn about their traditions, including the use of red ochre for skin protection and adornment.

Travel Tips for Visiting Namibia

• Best time to visit: The dry season from May to October is ideal for wildlife viewing and cool temperatures.

• Getting around: Renting a 4x4 is highly recommended. Namibia’s roads are long, dusty, and full of unexpected wonders.

• Currency: The Namibian Dollar (NAD) is used, but South African Rand is accepted too.

• Safety: Namibia is one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. Just watch out for baboons—they can be cheeky.

Why Namibia Should Be On Your Bucket List

Namibia isn’t just another dot on the map—it’s a living, breathing masterpiece of nature, culture, and adventure. From ancient deserts to wildlife spectacles, eerie ghost towns to friendly locals, this country is tailor-made for the traveler who wants more than just the usual.

So if you're dreaming of places to visit that are far from ordinary, craving unforgettable things to do, and looking for top attractions that mix wilderness with wonder, Namibia is your next big adventure. Pack your bags—and maybe an extra memory card. You're going to need it.