Namibian Safari in a Land of Fierce Beauty: Story by a Local

Crimson dunes rise in stark contrast against piercing blue skies while imposing boulders loom, steadfast amidst swirling, eternally wild sands. This is the breathtaking backdrop of a Namibian safari, where beyond rocky outcrops, an unexpected lake lies hidden, its shores graced with patches of greenery that gradually vanish into the thirsty embrace of the arid landscape. 

A Land of Contrasts

Then, as if a giant exhaled over a mound of crimson dust, the ground reveals dense, dry clay, white as salt. Amid the crumpled earth, desiccated trees stretch skyward, resembling skeletal hands reaching for salvation. Southward, a ghost town appears, with only the husks of buildings slowly being reclaimed by the earth.

Far north, frigid ocean waters kiss the desert shores, strewn with the remnants of shipwrecks. This is the land that God made in anger, the land that Patti, our Travel Expert, adores, and the land that will captivate you, too. This is… Namibia.

Finding Beauty in the Fury of Namibia

The bushmen hunter-gatherers, who once navigated its arid plains and ever-changing dunes, called it "the land God made in anger." This term is typically used to describe Namibia's Skeleton Coast, but for the people of Namibia and for Patti, it captures the entire essence of the country.

Patti often remarks, "I love God when he is angry because if he could create something as magnificent and unique as Namibia in his wrath, then truly, there's nothing more devastatingly beautiful."

And she would know. Born and raised in Windhoek, Namibia's capital, Patti has a connection to this country that only few can understand unless you've been there.

Her journey from these humble beginnings to becoming a revered travel expert began in her 20s when she moved to South Africa to pursue her studies and a career in tourism. However, her heart remained tethered to the vast expanses of her homeland.

"My heart has always been in Namibia; I've always longed for it, as if it's calling to me." – Patti.

Beyond the Known

While many are drawn to the famed landscapes of Etosha National Park, Swakopmund, Damaraland, and the striking Sossusvlei, Patti finds a deeper allure in Namibia's lesser-known treasures. "It's these hidden gems that truly define the exceptional character of Namibian safari," she explains. 

Places like the wild horses of Garub, who have adapted to the unforgiving desert, or the ghostly beauty of Kolmanskop, where diamonds once ruled but now only sands shift through decaying buildings.

Windhoek

Touching down in Windhoek, Namibia's capital, one is met with vast expanses that stretch into the horizon – a first taste of the solitude that defines this country. 

"It's like arriving in the middle of nowhere," Patti muses with a knowing smile. Yet, this city, grown from a quaint town to a bustling hub, retains its unique charm.

Here, traditional butchers, pencil tucked behind an ear, wrap your purchases in brown paper. Bakeries sell "broodjkin" instead of bread rolls, each word a reminder of the Namibian identity, enduring and proud.

Rain

Governed by the vast Namib Desert, one of the oldest and driest deserts in the world, the country is one of the driest in sub-Saharan Africa. And annual rainfall in some areas totals less than 50 millimetres. This scarcity makes rain a special occurrence, and for Patti and many Namibians, rainfall is a cherished phenomenon.

When it does arrive, it revives the arid land. Streams come to life, greenery springs up quickly, and the air is filled with the fresh scent of wet earth – and Namibians know this smell well. Patti often speaks about rain with great tenderness, noting the joy it brings. "Rain in Namibia is a celebration, a shared sigh of relief from every living thing," Patti shares, her eyes alight with the memory.

"As a child in Windhoek, the first drops of rain meant grabbing our bicycles and riding through the puddles and streams between acacia trees, surrounded by nature." – Patti.

Unexpected Encounters

Driving from Windhoek, the wilderness of Namibia unfolds in unexpected ways. “Once, a cheetah crossed the road just ahead of me,” Patti recounts.

These encounters are reminders of the wild that thrives just steps away from the town. Even during a simple drive, one might see warthogs and baboons along the roadside, showcasing the country's rich biodiversity and raw natural beauty.

"These spontaneous encounters remind you that in Namibia, you're truly part of something larger." – Patti.

Fish River Canyon

There's more than just wildlife here. The geological formations are out of this world, not least of which is the Fish River Canyon. This natural wonder carves a path through the Earth, a gash so deep it captures the raw power of nature’s artistry from space. 

This canyon, a sentinel of geological history, is a marvel that beckons hikers and adventurers alike. It's the mark of ancient rivers and stones that have watched ages pass uncounted.

Diamonds to Dust

Near the southern town of Lüderitz, the ghost town of Kolmanskop stands buried in sand, its deserted buildings a testament to a diamond-fueled boom long ended. Walking its sandy streets is like wandering through a dream, where the laughter of a forgotten party lingers in the air, and the silence speaks of fortunes made and lost. 

“It’s a place where history whispers from every sand-filled corner,” Patti notes, her voice tinged with the thrill of discovery.

"Walking through Kolmanskop is like stepping back in time. The sand-filled houses and deserted structures are a photographer's paradise, telling stories of a bygone era." – Patti. 

The Wild Horses of Garub

On the drive towards Lüderitz, visitors can encounter one of Namibia's most poignant sights – the wild horses of Garub. These horses, abandoned during the upheavals of World War I, have adapted to the harsh conditions and now roam freely, symbolising resilience and freedom.

"Seeing these horses surviving against all odds is a moving experience. They remind us of the enduring spirit of nature in Namibia." – Patti. 

The Overlooked Wonders of the South

While many rush through the south, eager to reach destinations like Lüderitz or Sossusvlei, Patti cherishes the often-overlooked areas like Keetmanshoop. "There’s a place called the Giant’s Playground, with massive rock formations and a quiver tree forest found among the boulders," she explains.

"It’s a spectacular site that many miss in their hurry." – Patti.

Patti shares a slice of local life, describing how Namibians embrace the journey itself. "We pack a cooler with cold beers, a flask of tea, and fresh “broodjkin” with ham, then find a shady spot under an acacia tree. Sitting there, in the stillness, listening to nature – it’s the best restaurant in the world!"

"These moments, these experiences, they're what life in Namibia is all about. It's not just about reaching a place; it's about feeling the earth and being at peace with the world" – Patti.

Sossusvlei

Journeying to the Sossusvlei area reveals a breathtaking landscape of vast dunes and salty clay pans. "Early in the morning, it's brisk and beautiful," Patti shares. "Sossusvlei reminds you of your place in the world. It's grounding, humbling," she adds, reflecting on the profound peace that envelops her in these moments.

"We climb the dunes, bundled up against the cold, and as the sun rises, the view across the landscape is unforgettable. Sitting there, with a steaming cup of coffee, listening to the quiet – it's incredible." – Patti. 

Uncover a Land Like No Other

This is Namibia, a land marked by contrasts, where the fury of its creation has shaped a landscape of unparalleled beauty. It's a place where solitude brings a sense of peace. 

Join us on a Namibian safari, just as Patti loves, and discover why this land, born from anger, is a destination like no other.