The name NAMIBIA means 'great arid desert'. An apt name for such a vast country which stretches beyond the far horizons, it is sun-bronzed and untamed. A great part of the western coastal region is dominated by the Namib Desert. Here the icy temperatures of the Benguela current sweep up the full 875 mile length of the coast, it’s too cold to allow for much evaporation but the meeting up with hot, dry winds causes a fog to move in over the desert, sustaining life in an area that should support no living thing at all.
The northern parts are more grassy savanna’s than desert and is host to the vast Etosha pan. A 75 mile by 32 mile shallow depression in the ground, a dried out lake that will partially fill to a depth of no more than three feet in exceptionally rainy seasons. At such time, thousands of flamingoes gather on these shallow sheets of water to feed on the algae and other aquatic organisms. The rest of the time, Etosha is a place of mirages. Its dry, flat, salt – encrusted surface shimmers in the heat with sporadic dust-devils spiralling into the sky. It is now, that mirages of dream – like pools, trees and mountains beckon on the horizon but all vanish with cruel abruptness to disappoint any living creature seeking refuge.
In spite of these conditions, the area surrounding the pans is wide open, wooded savannah and the animal population is large and varied. Waterholes are never a disappointment with large numbers of springbok, zebra, kudu, giraffe and wildebeest always coming and going to quench the thirsts brought on by these unforgiving conditions. Predators such as lion, leopard and cheetah also abound as well as large numbers of elephant.
Namibia is also home to a remarkable diverse population. Wambo’s, Europeans, Bergdamas, Herero’s, Nama Khoikhoi and the San make up the million odd people of this country. Many still living uneffected traditional lifestyles in extremely remote parts, in extreme weather conditions. Cities are modern and interesting. A visit to this interesting country is rewarding in many ways.
Namibia can be chosen as a sole destination for a tour or holiday, it is diverse enough but it’s a great addition to the neighboring countries as a combination. The following is a suggested combination, can be altered to suit different tastes.
