Namib Naukluft National Park : An endless conservation zone located in the western region of Namibia. The Namib Naukluft Park is a designated ecological reserve that was established in August 1979. The Park covers an area of 49,800 km² and was the largest protected area in Namibia at the time of its proclamation.
The Park is located along the Atlantic coast, adjacent to Dorob Park to the north, the Restricted Diamond Area to the south, and it shares a boundary with the private NamibRand Nature Reserve to the east. The Naukluft Mountains also form a portion of the park in the northeast.
The Park consists of four regions: Namib, Naukluft, Sesriem/Sossusvlei, and Sandwich Harbour, with certain areas of the Restricted Diamond Area included as well. Ideas have been made to extend the Park to the South African border should the diamond reserves in the currently existing Restricted Diamond Area be depleted.
Must Visit Destinations in Namib Naukluft National Park
This national park is essential for photographers to explore. The distinctive landscapes present breathtaking views that captivate the eye:
Deadvlei:
Photographer’s Vision
Deadvlei, situated in Sossusvlei, is a white clay pan renowned for its parched trees. The trees thrived due to the plentiful water provided by the flooding of the Tsauchab River. The shift in climate and decreasing water supply led to the trees drying out rather than breaking down.
The dead camel thorn trees, estimated to be over 900 years old, serve as captivating subjects for photographers. The combination of the dark trees, bright pans, vibrant dunes, and clear blue sky creates a captivating visual.
Sossusvlei:
Climb Famous Dunes
Sossusvlei stands out as Namibia’s most popular destination, characterized by its rolling dunes in shades of orange-brown and apricot that rise majestically above the desert floor. Here, you can discover the tallest dunes in the world. Ascend for breathtaking vistas of the area. Dune 45 is renowned for its beauty and is frequently ascended, standing at a height of 170 m/557 ft. Big Daddy stands at an impressive height of 325 m/1,066 ft, dominating the landscape of Deadvlei.
Sesriem Canyon:
Distinctive Geographic Structures
Sesriem is a natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab River millions of years ago, making it a remarkable site to explore for its stunning rock formations. Early Afrikaans explorers in the region designated the canyon; they were required to utilize six (“ses”) belts (“riem”) fastened together to form a rope for lowering buckets into the canyon to gather water.
What to at Namib Naukluft National Park
Game viewing
While the National Park may not boast an abundance of wildlife, visitors can still take pleasure in watching the animals that reside within its boundaries, as they have adapted to the heat and high temperatures. The Namib-Naukluft National Park, situated in the Namib Desert, presents challenges for many animals to thrive in this environment.
However, during a game drive through the park, you may encounter various species such as ostriches, zebras, brown hyenas, aardwolves, oryx, antelopes, kudus, African wild cats, steenboks, black-backed jackals, black rhinos, aardvarks, and a few giraffes. It is important to note that most of these animals are typically found in areas adjacent to the national park. A drive through here will be rewarding, but be sure to bring a head scarf, plenty of water, and sunglasses, as there will be a lot of sand along the way that could obstruct your view of the animals.
Photography excursions
Photographic safaris in the Namib-Naukluft National Park offer a wealth of tourist attractions that are begging to be captured by a camera, making it an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts.
Discover the Namib Desert
The Namib Desert is recognized as the oldest desert in the world and serves as a remarkable highlight for visitors to the Namib-Naukluft National Park. If you wish to experience the Desert and engage in various Desert activities during a safari in Namibia, this is the ideal destination. A visit to the National Park will provide you with access to the Desert and all the activities it has to offer.
Discover the wonders of Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei is home to nearly all the sand dunes in Namibia, and its location within the Namib-Naukluft National Park provides easy access for those visiting for a safari. Reaching Sossusvlei presents challenges due to sandy roads; however, utilizing a 4×4 vehicle allows for successful navigation, enabling you to experience and enjoy some of the finest activities available at Sossusvlei.
Quad Biking
Quad biking is primarily enjoyed at the sand dunes within the park, and this activity typically occurs early in the morning. In the afternoons, the heat becomes quite intense, making it challenging to ride the quad bikes.
Experience a hike up of Naukluft Mountain
Hiking takes place within the National Park, traversing the dunes while allowing you to observe the various animals that inhabit the area. You also have the opportunity to meet the locals, the San, who have adapted to living in these challenging conditions.
Situated in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the Mountain stands out as one of the premier tourist attractions in the area. The Sesriem Canyon is a prominent feature, attracting numerous tourists who can be observed trekking up the mountain and exploring the canyon area. Reaching the summit of the Mountain offers a breathtaking view of the entire Namib Desert and the Park. While the journey may be challenging, it promises an exhilarating and remarkable experience that everyone should have during a safari in Namibia.
Experience the thrill of a hot air balloon ride.
A balloon ride is typically enjoyed in the morning, as the air is calm during those hours, making it easier for the balloon to ascend. Who wouldn’t want to experience the breathtaking views of the Namib Desert from above.
