Why Choose Namibia for a Safari
Are you considering a safari but hesitant about the destination? Wondering why you should choose Namibia for a safari over another Southern African country?
Are you considering a safari, but hesitant about the destination? Wondering why you should choose Namibia for a safari over another Southern African country? Wildlife, must-see parks, cultural heritage and archaeological sites: we tell you everything about its different safaris and its remarkable sites!
1. A Safe Country Preserved from Mass Tourism
Namibia is a safe destination with no specific travel warnings. However, it remains an underappreciated destination among safari enthusiasts. Thanks to its well-preserved nature, well-maintained roads and political stability, it's a secure destination and ideal for a family safari!
2. The Most Affordable Safaris in Southern Africa
Still relatively undiscovered, Namibia offers safaris at attractive prices. It's also possible to organize your own safari in a 4x4 equipped with a rooftop tent, whereas other countries only offer more or less expensive accommodations (which can reach nearly €1,000 per night per person). That said, it's still possible to stay in a camp, lodge, and so on.
Namibia is also one of the rare countries where you can drive during a safari – unlike other nations, limited by the impassable roads that dot their parks (or subject to very high fees).
3. Varied Landscapes and Unique Parks
Etosha National Park and Its Black Rhinoceros
Located in the Kunene region, Etosha National Park extends over more than 22,000 km². The area open to safari enthusiasts allows you to explore its famous salt desert visible from space. You'll encounter springbok, giraffes, wildebeest, flamingos and the (extremely rare) black rhinoceros.
Bwabwata National Park and Its Indigenous Population
Bwabwata National Park is home to elephants, buffalo, sitatungas (endemic antelopes, also known as "water antelope") as well as African wild dogs (an endangered species). You'll also have the chance to meet indigenous communities. Indeed, about 5,500 residents live within the park and help manage it!
Damaraland and Its Exceptional Historical Heritage
On its desert lands, Damaraland is home to black-faced impalas, kudus and 3 remarkable sites:
- The "Petrified Forest": composed of trees 3 million years old (a guide is mandatory in this area);
- The Twyfelfontein Archaeological Site: listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this site contains over 2,000 rock engravings;
- The Brandberg Massif: also inscribed in UNESCO for its rock art.
Waterberg Plateau National Park and Its Protected Animals
Located in the Otjozondjupa region, Waterberg Plateau National Park is a vast bush overlooking the Kalahari Desert. Within its red cliffs, you'll spot white rhinoceros, dik-diks and black mambas.
Cape Cross and Its Sea Lion Colonies
Cape Cross is an atypical reserve on the Skeleton Coast. Each December, nearly 100,000 sea lions gather there during breeding season. Between cries, battles and dives, these "lions of the sea" offer an extraordinary wild spectacle!
Namib-Naukluft National Park and Its Red Sand Dunes
Spanning 50,000 km², Namib-Naukluft National Park is renowned for its red dunes of Sossusvlei – located within its salt and clay desert. On its arid lands live jackals, oryx, reptiles and scorpions. The site is considered one of the most beautiful safaris in Namibia.
4. The Wide Diversity of Safaris in Namibia
Self-Drive Safari
Namibia is one of the rare African countries offering self-drive safaris. An opportunity to get as close as possible to wild animals (with or without a guide). A practical, unique and fun safari option all rolled into one!
Walking Safari
Quieter and slower than other types of safaris, this option offers thrilling sensations in the heart of the African bush (an armed guide accompanies you).
Night Safari
Uncommon, the night safari is an unusual experience that lets you discover nature differently, as daytime species give way to nocturnal animals…
Rhino-Tracking
"Black rhinoceros tracking" is a signature activity in Namibia. Since these animals are threatened, guided excursions are organized. Rhino-tracking is practiced notably in Damaraland.
Why Choose Namibia for a Safari: The 4 Key Reasons!
Namibia is an ideal destination for a safari because of:
the country's safety and peace;
the attractive prices of its safaris;
the beauty of its parks and natural sites;
the diversity of its safaris.
All that's left is to prepare your Namibia safari and pack your bags!
Frequently asked questions
The dry season (May to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals concentrate around water sources. The rainy season (November to April) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
Namibia offers some of the most affordable safaris in Southern Africa. A self-drive 4x4 with rooftop tent can cost just tens of euros per night, compared to several hundred to over €1,000 per night in luxury lodges in Kenya or Botswana.
Yes, Namibia is one of the most family-friendly safari destinations. The country is politically stable, roads are well-maintained and self-drive 4x4 safaris allow you to travel at your own pace, with more flexibility than group tours.
Rhino-tracking, or black rhinoceros tracking, is an emblematic activity in Namibia. It involves tracking these endangered animals on foot, guided by specialized guides. This experience is practiced notably in Damaraland.
French nationals do not need a visa to enter Namibia for tourism stays of up to 90 days. A valid passport and return ticket are generally required. It's advisable to check conditions with the embassy before departure.
