Namibia is a country with incredible landscapes and diverse wildlife. It’s very welcoming to any adventure enthusiast who would like to explore. This can be done through safaris, camping and the numerous game drives. We have put together six of the most remarkable National Parks to visit, each one different in its way. Let’s have a look into these amazing destinations.
Namib-Naukluft National Park
Nestled between the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and the edge of the Great Escarpment is probably the first picture you see when you think of Namibia. It forms part of the Namib Desert, which is considered to be the oldest in the world. This Park is one of the country’s most visited tourist attractions. It is one of the least populated areas with a lot of open land, creating the most mesmerizing starry evenings in the open air. There are a few interesting features you will come across in this Park, like the multicoloured red Dunes caused by strong multi-directional winds, the white clay gravel plains, and some mountain areas for all nature lovers.
Etosha National Park
In the north of Namibia, Etosha National Park is one of the largest in Africa. Originally named “Etotha” meaning “the place where no plants grow” and was changed to “Etosha” for easier pronunciation. The park was once part of the large Lake Kunene, which dried up, leaving the current ecosystem. It is home to hundreds of endangered species, including the black rhinoceros and the vulnerable black-faced impala. The waterholes in this National Park are very popular among tourists for the best wildlife sightings, making it a must-visit for animal enthusiasts.
Richtersveld Transfrontier Park (ǀAi-ǀAis)
Bordering South Africa and Namibia, this Park combines the Hot Springs Game Park and the South African Richtersveld National Park. Facilities were opened in 2007 to enable tourists and locals to travel over the border within the boundaries of the park. The park consists of the Fish River Canyon, Africa’s largest canyon. Along the River, you will find sulphurous hot-water springs, given the Parks native name ‘ǀAi-ǀAis’, meaning ‘burning water’. The Apollo 11 Cave with ancient animal rock paintings and the richest botanical hotspot with valleys and high mountains. Here you can also find unique plant life such as the giant quiver tree and the ‘half-mens’ (half-human) tree. The local Nama community hold the half mens tree in high regard, as they believe it’s their ancestors longing for their home in Namibia.
Skeleton Coast National Park
Situated by the Atlantic Ocean, in the northwest part of Namibia, this park has a mysterious allure. Divided into the southern and northern sections, the southern section is accessible for 4×4 vehicles up until the Ugab River, where you will find signs with the skull and crossbones warning to not go further. The northern section showcases inaccessible shores covered with thousands of shipwrecks, collapsed oil drilling rigs and skeletons of whales and seals along the coast. You can only reach these parts with a fly-in safari helicopter, providing a unique perspective on this coastal landscape.
Nkasa Rupara National Park (Mamili)
Known as Mamili in the native tongue, this park is Namibia’s largest protected wetlands, benefitting local communities surrounding the park. The park is unfenced and serves as a breeding area and wildlife migration between Namibia, Botswana, Angola and Zambia (all neighbouring countries). With almost 1 thousand buffalo in the park, it is the largest buffalo population in the country.
The are are fires that occur, caused by lightning or humans seasonally and are very important for the park’s ecology, it regulates the tall grass and plants. The terrain is muddy and wet and you would only be able to access it with a 2-wheel drive car. It is important to remember that the park is situated in a Malaria area (mosquito-borne disease).
Bwabwata National Park
Edged by the Okavango River between Angola and Botswana, the Bwabwata National Park plays a crucial role as the migration route for the African elephant and other game animals. Home to over 5 thousand people living in the park, the park emphasized community involvement in planning and management. With a diverse landscape of trees and savannas, this park showcases wildlife and human communities co-existing.
Namibia’s six national parks serve as a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. From the iconic dunes of Namib-Naukluft to the mysterious shores of Skeleton Coast, each park offers a unique adventure for those seeking the beauty and wonder of the African landscape. Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature and witness the delicate balance between wildlife and human communities in these extraordinary destinations.
