Namibia is a country located in southern Africa, bordered by Angola to the north, Zambia to the northeast, Botswana to the east, South Africa to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It is a place that is rich in natural resources and has a diverse culture and history.
The editors of Beloc magazine have prepared some interesting ideas to get to know the country, which will show you that traveling around Namibia is easy!
Namibia gained independence from South Africa in 1990, following a long struggle towards it. Its economy is largely driven by mining, particularly of diamonds, uranium, and other minerals. Tourism is also a significant industry, with visitors drawn to the country’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Nature
One of the most striking features of Namibia is its vast and diverse landscape. The country is home to the Namib Desert, which is known as the world’s oldest desert at 55 million years old. At the heart of the Namib Desert lies the captivating Sossusvlei, a vast expanse of sand dunes that converge with the Tsauchab River’s end. The sand takes on a brilliant red or orange hue, owing to the iron oxide content within the sand. Two dunes, ‘Dune 45’ and ‘Big Daddy’, hold a special allure for visitors due to their stunning aesthetics and accessibility for climbing.
Namibia is also known for its commitment to environmental protection with several national parks and wildlife reserves dedicated to defending endangered species and preserving the natural environment. One of the most popular is Etosha National Park, which is home to a wide variety of animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
The best way to see the beauty of Namibia is to book a tour with AfricaBrut, during which, together with a guide in comfortable conditions, you will also see the coastal cities of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, ancient stone engravings, Mount Burnt, basalt “Organ Pipes” and much more.
Food
Of course, while travelling you want to try the national cuisine of Namibia! It is influenced by the diverse ethnic groups and the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Meat dishes such as beef, goat, and game meat are very popular, and they are often cooked over an open fire. Seafoods such as oysters, crayfish, and fish are also common in coastal regions. During this 10-day gastronomic tour, you’ll taste not only Namibia’s iconic dishes, but also drinks, each specially selected for your new day on the African continent.
Culture
In terms of cultural diversity, Namibia is home to over 11 different ethnic groups, each with their unique traditions, customs, and beliefs. English is the official language, but there are also several indigenous languages spoken throughout the country, including Oshiwambo, Herero, and Nama. However, in addition to the settlements of nomads and hunter-gatherers, Namibia is also beautiful for its colonial architecture, which amazes with its colourfulness and diversity.
The country’s art and craft industry is also an important aspect of Namibian culture. Local artists are known for their intricate wood carvings, pottery, and beadwork. For example, the Owambo people are renowned for their skill in creating pottery using traditional techniques. The Himba tribe is known for its distinctive red ochre body paint and elaborate hairstyles, while the Herero have their colourful Victorian-style dresses.
In case you wonder about meeting local people, Beloc has several articles about African residents. The Himba tribe will open their doors to show you their traditional food, way of life and folk dances as they are very eager to meet tourists.
Traditional music is an essential part of Namibian culture, and it is used to celebrate various occasions such as weddings, funerals, and festivals. The music is characterized by rhythmic drumming, singing, and dancing. Namibia also has a rich tradition of storytelling. Folktales, myths, and legends are often told around the fire at night, and they are accompanied by traditional music and dance.
Religion
Finally, religion plays a significant role in Namibian culture. Christianity is the dominant religion in the country, but folk beliefs and practices are still prevalent among some ethnic groups. The Himba people, for instance, practice ancestor worship, and they believe that their ancestors have a direct influence on their daily lives.
It is worth concluding that Namibia is rich both in natural resources and cultural diversity. With its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and vibrant culture, it is a truly remarkable country for exploration!
