5 Tourist Attractions Which Make Namibia Famous

Namibia isn’t among the most well-known African countries; however, it records a large number of foreign travellers every year. Well, this often leads to the question what is Namibia famous for?

From breathtaking landscapes, world-renown safari to the Himba people and mighty dunes to amazing architecture, Namibia is a fascinating country for all travellers to visit. In fact, it is the only African country which former US President Donald Trump has visited. For now, let’s take a look at what Namibia is famous for and why they are important to the country located in southwest Africa.

Table of Contents

1. Namib Desert

The Namib desert will always come on top when talking about things Namibia is famous for. This primary sand desert is more than 40 million years old and may be the oldest desert in the world. It has endured arid or semi-arid conditions for roughly 55–80 million years.

Namib desert. Photo/ World Atlas.

The Namib desert occupies a vast part of the Namibian territory and also stretches along the Atlantic coasts of Angola and South Africa. The desert, which is home to some of Africa’s strangest flora and fauna, is almost entirely uninhabited other than some small indigenous settlements.

2. Etosha National Park

Apart from being one of the most well-known safari destinations, Etosha National Park is one of the most accessible game reserves in Namibia and Southern Africa. It is easily the best option for those who want to enjoy a safari independently.

Etosha is somewhat unique in Africa, considering the abundance of wildlife. Four of the big five call this place home. Be sure to spot black rhinoceros, lions, elephants and leopards, which are as elusive as usual and hide in the more dense areas.

3. The Himba Tribe

Himba tribe women. Photo/History of Yesterday

Well, you can’t talk about what Namibia is famous for and fail to mention the Himba tribe. You might not know what the Himba tribes are but if you see a picture of them, you’ll definitely recognize them.

The Himba people are a semi-nomadic tribe who have lived in northern Namibia for centuries and are known for their red skin. The skin of the Himba is not actually red as the colour comes from the red ochre cream they spread on their skin. They are a fascinating group who have hold onto their lifestyle of selling jewelry and watching over their herds. If you find yourself camping in Northern Kaokoland, ensure you meet them before leaving Namibia.

4. Fish River Canyon

The fish river canyon must be included in any discussion about what Namibia is famous for. This is because it is the biggest canyon in Africa and one of the most famous hikes in South Africa. According to Wild Frontiers, around 2500 to 3000 people do hike the trail every season.

The fish river is 161 km long, 27 km wide and up to 500 metres deep. The route starts in Seeheim and ends at Ai-Ais, after which the river flows into the Orange River. The trail is only open May to mid-September due to the risk of flash flooding.

5. Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast is another famous region in Namibia extending from the southern part of the country up to Namibia. The region is filled with desert plains, fossil beds, sand dunes and strange vegetation. Despite being notorious for a long time, it holds enchanted beauty.

Skeleton Coast. Photo/ andBeyond.

The bushmen from the Namib referred to the region as “The Land God Made in Anger”, while the Portuguese sailors called it “The Gates of Hell”. Be sure you’ll spot whales, sea lions, seals, lions, baboons, black rhinos, jackals, ostrich, hyena and birdlife on a trip to the Skeleton Coast.