Traveling to Namibia with family

The Namibian coast

It takes several hours to drive to Windhoek, the capital where all the planes land on the coast, but what a joy when you are there.

Swakopmund and Walvis Bay

The coastal town of Swakopmund, with its German colonial architecture, offers a striking contrast to the surrounding desert. Families can enjoy various activities like sandboarding on the dunes or dolphin watching boat trips at Walvis Bay. I also remember going to the precious stone museum (the soil is rich in this part of Africa) or the reptile museum (yes, snakes and everything!)

You can try looking for gems on your own on the beach but it will take a little time. Besides, there is no sandy beach on this part of the coast. And there’s no real question of swimming either. The ocean is demanding around here. We will talk about it a little later in the article.

You can then head towards Walvis Bay about 1 hour south to see migratory birds and salt marshes. It is the main port of the country. It is therefore possible to rent boat trips to see sea lions, whales…

Cape Cross

Further north of Swakopmund, after Henties bay is Cape Cross. This area is home to an impressive colony of fur seals. It is a fascinating sight for children to see these marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Several tips all the same: we avoid getting too close because it remains an animal heavier than a human sometimes. The animals tolerate us but we must not abuse them. Also, bring a tissue if you are sensitive to odors. Our sea lion animals stink like seals :)

The Namibian desert

Further south, head for the Namib Desert which stretches across several countries in southern Africa.

Sossusvlei and Deadvlei

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is home to the famous red dunes of Sossusvlei, including the famous Dune 45 and its tree at the foot.

For the more adventurous, climbing Big Daddy, the highest dune in the region, is an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to listen to the dune song, a unique natural phenomenon that occurs when you run down the dune and stop to press your ear to the dune while the sand continues to tumble beneath your feet.

Sesriem Canyon

Located a little further, this narrow canyon was dug by the Tsauchab River. We have the impression of being in Antelope Canyon in the United States (all things considered). It’s a great place for a family hike and to observe the fascinating geology of the area. We did it one morning and it was really nice to be “cool”.

In the footsteps of the first men

Twyfelfontein and White Lady

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Twyfelfontein is home to thousands of prehistoric rock carvings. It is located much further north of Swakopmund. Follow your guide who will take you into this rocky labyrinth which at every turn reveals a crazy quantity of cave paintings. So of course, we don’t touch, we don’t climb anywhere and we respect the place.

Another place, a little further south closer to Swakopmund, the cave painting of the White Lady is another fascinating testimony to ancient art. You will have to hike for about 1 hour to reach it. And there, in the middle of nowhere, is a huge rock with cave paintings, only one of which is white; hence his nickname.

Meetings with the Herrero and Himba ethnic groups

I am not in favor of going to the tribes because they have the right to their peace. Their lifestyle should not be an attraction but that remains my opinion. What I was able to see despite everything is that the Himba are very well integrated into the cities of the north of the country (where I met them). The women are magnificent with their colonial dresses and headdresses.

Conversely, I saw fewer San (who are considered the first people of Africa). I passed not far from San villages while going up towards the Kunene River. I know that some tour operators offer meetings with these ethnic groups, in agreement with the village chiefs. A visit to the San or Himba people offers a unique opportunity to discover ancestral ways of life and to interact with local communities, if you wish.

Crédit photo Bynativ

Sleep under the stars

Namibia offers plenty of opportunities for camping under the stars. Tent camps in the southern desert or in the Kaokoland region allow you to live an immersive experience in the heart of wild nature.

In the far north, I slept several nights on the banks of the Kunene River in a tent. It was a great place for children to play in a relatively safe environment (just keep an eye on the river when they are swimming). It’s fantastic to be able to walk peacefully but at a good distance from the elephants. It’s super fun to shower the old-fashioned way with the cows coming to drink from the shower. And above all, it’s fascinating to have an evening around the fire and watch the stars sparkle in the sky. Magical moments.

Observe wildlife

Etosha National Park

This iconic park is one of the best places in Africa to view wildlife. Waterholes attract a wide variety of animals, providing unique photography opportunities. Leave early or at dusk for a safari. On the program: porcupine, hyena, lion, giraffe, meerkat, rhino, zebra, impala, buffalo, leopard….

Precautions: It is crucial to remain vigilant and maintain a safe distance from wild animals, even outside of national parks.

• When you’re in the park, you don’t get out of your car.
• When you are in the camps sleeping, you pay attention to your food because the mongooses are little thieves.
• When you are at the water points, tell the children to make as little noise as possible so as not to frighten the animals

Crédit photo Spot et tourisme

Meet the black rhinoceroses

Note that Etosha is THE Namibian park but there are other experiences to be had on shorter and private circuits in other places in Namibia. We notably had the opportunity to go hiking to meet black rhinoceroses. A fascinating moment for adults and children alike. And then, hide and seek is worth the detour because rhinos, although they are as short-sighted as moles, have incredible hearing and smell. It’s not easy not to get burned.

Luderitz and the Skeleton Coast

The northern coast of Namibia, known as the Skeleton Coast, is famous for its many shipwrecks. To the south, Luderitz and the ghost town of Kolmanskop offer a fascinating insight into the country’s colonial history.

Practical information

What to put in your suitcase?

Namibia is not a “beach” country. You must dress accordingly, both to protect yourself from the sun, the coolness of the evening and even mosquitoes:

• Loose, covering clothing for the day to avoid sunburn
• Fleece and windproof for cool nights and windy days
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Good hiking shoes

Drive in Namibia

Rent an all-terrain vehicle and learn how to change a wheel. The distances are long and the roads sometimes difficult, so plan your journeys accordingly. If you feel it is average, some travel agencies offer all-inclusive drive tours with drivers.

Personally, we drove ¾ of the time in the south, on the coast, towards the north. The only place where we took the services of a driver was to go all the way north to the border with Angola. Because up there, there was really nothing in case of problems.

Crédit Photo Voyage de luxe

Security

Always consult official recommendations before your trip. Visit the Government Diplomacy website. Then, once there:

• Be respectful and vigilant
• Always keep your tank full
• Carry plenty of water
• Avoid driving at night.

There is still so much to say about Namibia: between Death Valley, the Épopa Falls on the border with Angola, the Fish River Canyon in the far south, the immense Otjiwarango market, artisanal carpet weaving, …

A trip to Namibia with the family is an extraordinary adventure that will leave lasting memories. With good preparation and the spirit of a modern-day adventurer, you will discover a country of breathtaking beauty and live unique experiences in the heart of African nature. Remember to watch your children’s expressions during the trip!

For first time : these are not my photos. Find the credits above the pictures and don’t hesitate to check on the websites. Their properties to people in love with Namibia like I can be of this wonderful country. If you need any further information, use the contact form.