Namibia Online Sales Guide by Bookletia

INTRODUCTION

Namibia Destination Specialist Program This course will introduce you to Namibia’s endless horizons and provide you with knowledge, sales tips and web references to help you sell the destination to your clients. This “Online Sales Guide,” provides in-depth information on activities, regions and itineraries for you to reference during the course and in your future work in Namibia. This guide accompanies the online course, which is composed of three modules and three quizzes. You must receive 80% or higher on the quizzes to pass to the next section. After successful completion of the course you can download a certificate and logo to add to your website. Please contact the Namibia Tourism Board for more information about the benefits for our Certified Namibian Destination Specialists.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

People of Namibia ................................................................................34 Food/Drink ...........................................................................................38 Crafts .....................................................................................................39 Festivals/Events .....................................................................................40 Adventure ..............................................................................................42

Three Things You Need to Know About Namibia ................5 What Are Others Saying About Namibia? ...........................5

Responsible Tourism in Namibia ....................................42 Communal Conservancies ....................................................................42 Eco-Awards Namibia ............................................................................42 Black Economic Empowerment ...........................................................43 Volunteering ..........................................................................................43 Cultural Tourism ...................................................................................44

Uniquely Namibian Experiences ......................................6 Adventure Races .....................................................................................6 Rhino tracking ........................................................................................7 Birding ....................................................................................................7 Paragliding ..............................................................................................8 Golfing ....................................................................................................8 Fish River Canyon ..................................................................................8 Walvis Bay Lagoon ..................................................................................8

Getting Here & Around ..................................................44 Entry Requirements ..............................................................................44 Getting To Namibia ..............................................................................45 Air Namibia ..........................................................................................45 Getting around by Plane .......................................................................45 Ground Transport .................................................................................46 Car Rental ................................................................................................47 Buses ........................................................................................................47 Trains ......................................................................................................47 Taxis ........................................................................................................47 Travel Times .........................................................................................48

Fun Facts About Namibia ................................................9 Regions of Namibia ......................................................10 The Capital City ...................................................................................10 Central Region ......................................................................................15 South Region ........................................................................................15 Namib/Coast ........................................................................................19 East ........................................................................................................23 North West ............................................................................................23 North East .............................................................................................25 Caprivi ..................................................................................................26 Kavango ................................................................................................28

Geography ...................................................................50 Map of Conservation Areas ..................................................................50 Nature Reserves ....................................................................................50 National Parks .......................................................................................50 Bwabwata National Park ...........................................................................50 Dorob National Park ..................................................................................51 Etosha National Park .................................................................................52 Khaudum National Park .............................................................................53 Mamili National Park ................................................................................53 Mangetti National Park ..............................................................................54 Mudumu National Park .............................................................................54 Sperrgebiet National Park ...........................................................................54 Namib-Skeleton Coast National Park ...........................................................55 Cape Cross Seal Reserve .............................................................................55

Linking Namibia with other countries .............................29 Tips for Transportation Around Namibia ........................30 Tips for Exploring Lesser Known Regions of Namibia ......30 Tips for Engaging with People of Different Cultures .........31 Tips for Photography ....................................................31 What Makes Namibia Special? .......................................32 Nature ...................................................................................................33 Wildlife ..................................................................................................33 Conservancies .......................................................................................33 Culture ..................................................................................................34

Taxes .....................................................................................................66 Withdrawing Money/ATM Machines .................................................67 Using North American credit cards in Namibia ...................................67 Tipping .................................................................................................67 Internet access .......................................................................................67 Using a North American phone in Namibia ........................................67 Getting a phone in Namibia .................................................................67 Vaccinations ..........................................................................................67 Wheelchair Accessibility .......................................................................68 Health care facilities ..............................................................................68 Rescue facilities .....................................................................................68 Water .....................................................................................................68 Malaria ..................................................................................................69 Language ...............................................................................................69 Key Phrases ...........................................................................................69 Vegetarians ............................................................................................71 Electrical current ...................................................................................72 Government ..........................................................................................72 Namibia with Kids ................................................................................72 Namibia for Mature Adventurers .........................................................72 Reading List ..........................................................................................72 Weather â&#x20AC;&#x201C; What to Pack .......................................................................73

Hardap Game Reserve ................................................................................55 South West Nature Reserve .........................................................................56 Daan Viljoen Game Park ............................................................................56 Fish River Canyon and /Ai-/Ais Resort ......................................................56 Namib-Naukluft Park ................................................................................57 In the Namib .............................................................................................57 Sandwich Harbour .....................................................................................58 Welwitschia Trail ......................................................................................58 Sossusvlei ..................................................................................................58 Sesriem Canyon .........................................................................................59 In NAUKLUFT .......................................................................................59 Popa Game Park ........................................................................................59 Skeleton Coast Park ....................................................................................59 Von Bach Game Park .................................................................................60 Waterberg Plateau Park ..............................................................................60 Transfrontier Parks .....................................................................................61 The /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: .............................................61 The Iona Skeleton Coast Transfrontier Conservation Area: .............................61 The Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area: ...............................61 Conservation Areas ...............................................................................62 Conservancies .......................................................................................62 Private Game Reserves .........................................................................63 Ramsar Sites .........................................................................................63

Activities .....................................................................73 4x4 trails ................................................................................................73 Adventure Races ...................................................................................73 Angling ..................................................................................................74 Ballooning .............................................................................................75 Birding ..................................................................................................75 Camel rides: ..........................................................................................76 Camping ...............................................................................................76 Canoeing, Kayaking, Rafting ................................................................76 Catamaran ............................................................................................77 Caving ...................................................................................................77 Climbing ...............................................................................................78 Community Based Tourism ..................................................................78 Diving ....................................................................................................78 Dolphin Cruises ....................................................................................79

Conservation initiatives .................................................64 AfriCat ..................................................................................................64 Afri-Leo/AfriCat North ........................................................................64 Cheetah Conservation Fund .................................................................64 Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation (IRDNC) ...64 Harnas ..................................................................................................65 Ministry of Environment and Tourism ................................................65 N/aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;an kuse ..........................................................................................65 Namib Desert Environmental Education Trust (NaDeet) ....................65 Predator Conservation Trust ................................................................65 Save the Rhino Trust ............................................................................66 Practical Tips ...............................................................66 Time Zone ............................................................................................66 Currency ...............................................................................................66 3

Dune & Sand boarding .........................................................................79 Endurance Sports ..................................................................................80 Flying ....................................................................................................80 Golfing ..................................................................................................80 Geology .................................................................................................80 Hiking ...................................................................................................80 Horseback riding ...................................................................................83 Hunting .................................................................................................84 Kitesurfing ............................................................................................85 Mountain Biking ...................................................................................85 Paragliding ............................................................................................86 Photography ..........................................................................................86 Quad-biking ..........................................................................................86 Safaris ....................................................................................................87 Stargazing .............................................................................................87 Skydiving ...............................................................................................87 Soaring ..................................................................................................88 Surfing ...................................................................................................88 Wellness .................................................................................................88 Windsurfing ...........................................................................................88 Understanding Some Key Issues in Namibia ....................88 Political history ......................................................................................89 Government ..........................................................................................89 History ..................................................................................................89 Mining ...................................................................................................89 Seals ......................................................................................................90 Hosting a Conference or Meeting in Namibia ...................90 Conference Facilities .............................................................................90 Benefits ..................................................................................................91 Who to contact? ....................................................................................91 Downloadable Content ..................................................91 Itineraries ..............................................................................................91 Destination Copy ..................................................................................91 Images ...................................................................................................92 The End .......................................................................92

NAMIBIA FACTS Area: Namibia covers 824,292 sq. km (318,259 sq. mi). Location: Situated on the southwestern coast of Africa, Namibia borders Angola and Zambia in the north, South Africa in the south and Botswana in the east. Population: Slightly more than 2.2 million. Capital City: Windhoek

variety of accommodation establishments that bridge enhance the country’s appeal. Namibia is liberating. Your visitors can visit Namibia at their own pace, on their own terms. Like nowhere else in Africa, Namibia provides the visitor the opportunity to escape stress, experience peace and freedom, sit and admire the breathtaking landscapes and reflect. The North American visitor to Namibia will not be part of a larger guided tour as experienced elsewhere in Africa where scheduled group activities, buffet meals, tightly organized and often large game drives, and visits to contrived roadside gift shops ruin the experience.

What Are Others Saying About Namibia? “Namibia is one of the most amazing countries we’ve been to in 10 years.” Matt Lauer, during his 10th and final Where in the World is Matt Lauer tour for NBC’s Today show. "Anyone who has flown over the vast infinity of the Namibia Desert in a light aircraft will know that it is the closest to flying like a bird that you will ever get. You will experience a sense of timelessness and space amplified above, below and beyond. Your breath will have been taken away time and time again as the colours and contours of the dunes change and expand into infinity." Dr. Conrad Brain, commercial pilot with 10,000 hours and veterinarian, conservationist and scientist. “Whether you like pitching a tent in the bush or on a river bank, being pampered in a five star hotel, or sleeping in a four-poster bed in a castle, or waking up in a bungalow built in stone with a solid mountain rock as a bed board, Namibia has all of this and more.” Issi Eises, Namibian

Three Things You Need to Know About Namibia 1)

Namibia is undiscovered and unspoiled. We won’t name names, but unlike other countries, Namibia feels as though your footprints are the first to fall on a windswept dune, not sharing the view to a watering hole with 15 to 20 other vehicles, and the chance to meet beguiling people whose cultures are vastly different but whose warmth makes you feel at home. Namibia is safe and provides outstanding infrastructure – not expected in Africa or most developing countries. Visitors will enjoy a sense of security, ease of movement, and even self-drive experiences if desired. A well-maintained road network, scheduled and chartered flights plus a

“From adrenalin-pumping exploits to relaxed fishing expeditions, Namibia has adventure galore. With its vast tracts of untamed countryside, rugged mountains and the Namib's magnificent dune sea, Namibia offers a wide range of adventure activities. From easy rambles on foot in the Namib Desert to galloping at full speed on horseback across the Namib plains, to soaring in the thermals in a hot-air balloon and braving the awesome rapids of the Kunene river.” Willie Olivier, travel writer for Travel News Namibia.

“Imagine standing on a single spot in a last so vast and empty that it is possible that no human being has ever stood there before. You will experience a magical sense of isolation, of empowerment, of freedom, and of communion with the environment.” Sharri Whiting De Masi, Flamingo in-flight magazine “Nowhere else on earth is there and expanse similar to the Island Marine Protected Area, one of Namibia’s latest innovative conservation initiatives. A merger of 12,000 sq. km of protected Atlantic Ocean, with dotted islands, a coastline that forms part of the 107,540 sq. km continuous national park from the Orange to the Kunene rivers form a combination of conserved sea and land that is unmatched in any country.” Dr Hu Berry, Scientist and writer for Conservation & the Environment in Namibia magazine. “Whether you’re an amateur, hobby or professional photographer, in Namibia you can’t go wrong – light conditions are optimal and there is a spectacular variety of scenic landscapes and an abundance of wildlife that can often be photographed at close quarters.” Amy Schoeman, Award-winning Namibian photographer and author “Geologically speaking Namibia is undoubtedly one of the most interesting countries in the world. The landscape is like an open book, just waiting to be read.” Nicole Grünert, Geologist. “Breathing space. Thinking space. Fresh air in abundance. Enough air for everyone to breathe, enough space for everyone to be. Once you have experienced how liberating so much open space is, your bewilderment will turn into enchantment.” Christine Hugo, Author, My Hungry Heart.

Fun Facts About Namibia Some stunning and surprising facts about Namibia that will delight your clients!

*Namibia’s 1992 Miss Universe contestant, Michelle McLean, won the crown that year. In 1995, Namibia became the first country in Africa to host the contest.

*After Mongolia, Namibia is the second most sparsely inhabited sovereign country in the world (Antarctica is not a sovereign country!)

*In 1908, when the German settlers were constructing the railway line from Lüderitz, a foreman joked to his workers that they should look for diamonds beside the line. They found them, and started the Namibian diamond industry! Today, tourists can find diamonds too…at the master jewelers in town! There is a special “Namibian sun” original cut developed exclusively for Namibian diamonds.

*Up to 150 million years ago, some assert that Namibia was firmly connected to South America. Namibia’s Kunene River has its geological match in what is present day Brazil and the same dinosaurs roamed across the whole region. *Namibia is a member of the British Commonwealth. It is one of only two countries in the British Commonwealth that was never a colony of Britain. The other country is Mozambique. *After Independence, English became Namibia’s official language. However, English is the native language of less than 5% of the country’s population. There are 28 different dialects spoken in Namibia. *The bulk of Namibia’s population lives in the northern fringes of the country, not around the capital. *Namibia has the largest ‘Khoisan’ speaking population in the world – the original Neolithic language of Africa. *The odd shape of the country, with Namibia’s Caprivi strip stretching out like a finger to the east, was the colonial German government’s attempt to link up with their colony in Tanganyika (Modern day Tanzania)! *Namibia is the driest country in Southern Africa, and home to the two of the oldest deserts in the world. *However, Namibia is also home to the world’s largest underground lake – the Dragon’s Breath! *Namibia ‘hosts’ the world’s largest meteorite, which fell to earth over 80,000 years ago. Tourists can see it near Grootfontein. 8

*Namibia is the only country in the world where the number of freeroaming desert lions has increased fivefold in less than two decades.

*Nearly everyone is connected in Namibia – there are over 1 ½ million cell phone users in a population of only 2 million!

*The Khomas Hochland/Gamsberg area west of Windhoek has the thirdclearest, least light-polluted sky in the world.

*The colourful traditional dresses of Herero women derive from the attire of the wives of Finnish missionaries in the 19th century.

*Chelsea Clinton and her husband honeymooned in Namibia.

*Namibia has the world’s largest populations of cheetah and of black rhinos living outside of protected areas.

*Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie had their first child in Namibia and continue to support conservation and community efforts in the country.

*Walvis Bay, Namibia’s main port, was a British or South African enclave for over 100 years and only incorporated into Namibia in 1994.

Photo Gallery: Fun Facts about Namibia

*Sandfontein, in the extreme south of the country, was the site of the first battle in World War I, a contest between South Africans and the German occupiers of Namibia. *Before it became Windhoek, the first name for the area of Namibia’s capital was called Queen Adelaide’s Bath. In most indigenous languages, it is called ‘place of steam and smoke’ because there used to be plentiful hot springs in the area. *Namibia is a country geared towards aviation. Not only does it have topclass flight schools and aviation engineers, almost every guest farm and lodge in the country has its own landing strip. There are more than 300 known airfields in Namibia. *Namibia is the first African country to enshrine the protection of the environment into her constitution. *42% of Namibia’s surface area is under some form of conservation management. This includes national parks and reserves, communal and commercial conservancies, community forests, and private nature reserves.

After Mongolia, Namibia is the second most sparsely inhabited sovereign country in the world.

*Namibia is the only country in the world where large numbers of rare and endangered wildlife are translocated FROM national parks to open communal land.

NAMIBIA EXPERIENCES At approximately 824,000 square kilometers, Namibia is immense even by African standards. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what occupies this seemingly endless amount space that makes it special. Namibia is filled with rugged, beautiful landscapes of every kind creating an otherworldly environment from which an amazing wealth of wildlife has adapted and thrived. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect for nature lovers, for adventure or solace seekers, and for people looking to be inspired long after their departure.

drop off camps, and participants must provide their own food, water and camping gear. Firewood is available for sale.

Uniquely Namibian Experiences As you’ll find through this course, Namibia offers a host of exciting and surprising activities for every kind of traveler. Here are some highlights: (Please see the “Activities” Section for more activities available in Namibia)

Rhino tracking Tracking with Save the Rhino Trust through the remote, vast and harsh desert terrain is a great adventure. The desert adapted black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis bicornis) surviving in the Kunene Region (former Damaraland and Kaokoland) in the arid north-west of Namibia are the only rhino world-wide, that have survived on communal land with no formal conservation status. In the early 1980's, a savage slaughter of desert wildlife took place in the Kunene Region. As rhino numbers shrank to near extinction, a group of concerned people gathered together to form the Save the Rhino Trust (SRT). Monitoring, research and recognition of individual rhinos is vital to SRT’s work, so tracking isn’t merely a tourist activity. It is critical to the ongoing protection of rhinos in Namibia. Tracking is conducted in the Palmwag Conservancy, where the rare desert dwelling elephant is also found.

Adventure Races 100 km of Namib Desert – An annual race that subjects the runners to extreme conditions – sandstorms, strong winds, blistering heat during the day and freezing temperatures at night – yet treats its participants to five-star accommodation, is the contradiction on which this unique event was developed. Still a relatively new and innovative program, it is unique in the world panorama of desert-running contests. Its attractions are running for 100 kilometers (about 62 miles) over terrain regarded by many as the most beautiful and captivating in the world, experiencing its mysterious and ever-changing atmosphere in an ambience of relaxation and comfort. Namib Desert Challenge – Regarded as one of the toughest footraces in the world, this race covers 142 miles of inhospitable, desert terrain. It is held in the Sossusvlei area, and comprises five stages of high-endurance ultra running, with competitors carrying their own survival kit and food. The NDC is a physical as well as a mental race. Running the equivalent or more of a full marathon every day for five days, with temperatures reaching the mid-40s, it is a super test of endurance, stamina and the ability to persevere through personal pain barriers. NDC takes place in March. With a limit of 80 runners, interested parties should jump to secure a place.

Dorsland Trek 4X4 Route - Running from the Marico Region in South Africa and ending in Humpata in Angola, this race is an adventurous 1 243-mile, self-guided route following the tracks of the epic 1878 Dorsland Trek from South Africa through Namibia to Angola.

The most rewarding birding destination is the northeastern region of the country. Of the more than 450 species recorded here to date, several have a limited distribution elsewhere in Southern Africa, including Okavango ‘specials’ such as the slaty egret, swamp boubou, chirping cisticola and greater swamp-warbler. Noteworthy species occurring along the Okavango and Zambezi rivers include the rock pratincole, African skimmer and long-toed lapwing.

Heading the list of ‘megaticks’ are Namibia’s 15 endemic and nearendemic species. Among these are Rüppell’s korhaan, Hartlaub’s spurfowl, Rüppell’s parrot, Violet wood hoopoe, Carp’s tit, Monteiro’s hornbill, Herero chat, Damara hornbill (newly classified) and the white-tailed shrike.

Self Guided Naukulf Hiking Trail - This 45-mile-long self-guided hiking trail is regarded as the most difficult of its kind in Namibia. It takes two days to complete and the overnight camp can accommodate 16 people. Groups are limited, with no more than 4 vehicles allowed in the pick up and 12

Surfing With waves ranging in length between 150 and 300 meter and with a swell size of about 2 meter, surfing is possible at Cape Cross where waves are rated as the favourites in Namibia. The wave are world-class!

Birding hotspots in the northeast are the Bwabwata National Park, Impalila Island (400+ species), the Mudumu and Mamili national parks, Katima Mulilo and the Zambezi River, and the western bank of the Kwando River. The wetlands of Walvis Bay and Sandwich Harbor rank among the most important coastal wetlands in Africa and make for optimal birding.

Click here to watch a surfing video in Namibia.

Nearly a quarter of Namibia’s birds are Palaearctic or intra-African migrants. The coastal flats are an important breeding ground of the endangered Damara tern, while the gravel flats of the pre-Namib are home to Gray’s lark and in the dune areas further south, the dune lark, Namibia’s only true endemic bird species.

Golfing With a stunning backdrop of red sand dunes, 450 palm trees translocated from a dormant date farm in the Hoanib River, and more than 250 springbok roaming freely across its greens, the unfenced golf course at Rossmund Golf Club & Lodge is uniquely Namibian.

When Avis Dam on Windhoek’s outskirts holds water, quality birding can be enjoyed close to the capital. Species of interest include the white-tailed shrike, Monteiro’s hornbill and the rockrunner. Other well-known birding destinations in Namibia are the Waterberg Plateau Park, Etosha National Park and the Kunene River environs (the latter especially for ‘specials’ such as the Cinderella waxbill, rufous-tailed palm-thrush and bare-cheeked babbler).

The 18-hole, par-72 course with fully grassed fairways is located 4.3 miles inland from Swakopmund, outside the fog belt. The course length is 20 111 feet for men and 16 896 feet for women. It is believed that Rossmund is the first golf course in the world to have the same grass on the tee, fairway and green, although the preparation for each is different. Fish River Canyon One of the major hiking trails in Southern Africa, the Fish River Hiking trail takes backpackers on a journey along the second-largest canyon in the world through spectacular scenery, solitude and total wilderness. Hemmed in by sheer canyon walls towering as much as 1,801 feet above the meandering riverbed, the trail runs between the northernmost viewpoint of the Fish River Canyon and the thermal hot spring at the /Ai-/ Ais Spa.

Click here for a birding map from Birdlife.org Paragliding The dunes south of Swakopmund provide some of the safest locations in the world for paragliding. The dune belt between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay where the dunes range from 230 to 498 feet, especially the dunes overlooking Long Beach (Langstrand), are favourite spots for paragliders. The fresh southwesterly winds offer ideal ‘lift’, and once air-borne there are spectacular views of the desert and ocean. Namib Gliding offers a half-day introductory course that includes at least two ground-skimming flights, full day flights, a basic pilot’s license course and tandem flights.

The trail is 53 miles long, is self-guided and usually takes four or five days to complete. It can be undertaken only from 15 April to 15 September, due to high summer temperatures and the danger of flash floods during the rainy season. A medical form completed by a doctor no more than 40 days prior to the hike must be handed in at Hobas before commencing the hike. Hikers must carry all their equipment, food and water for the duration of the hike. Well worn-in boots with good ankle support are essential.

In Namibia paragliding is usually done with a guide who knows the country’s conditions and flying sites. Tourists are strongly advised not to try to paraglide on their own. The dunes are regulated by the local training school to insure safety and reduce overcrowding. Currently, tours are offered from October to March, which is the main season and the best flying times in Namibia. 13

Walvis Bay Lagoon With its fresh southwesterly breezes, the Walvis Bay Lagoon attracts boardsailing enthusiasts from all over the world. Walvis Bay is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hotspots for windsurfing, kite surfing and kayaking. The Walvis Bay Yacht Club organizes regattas for hoby cats, fireballs and catamarans. The aim of the club is the encouragement of amateur yacht sailing and the operation of sea-going motor yachts in Walvis Bay and adjacent waters. In December, the Club hosts the 19-mile-long Off-shore Yacht Race from Walvis Bay to Swakopmund.

Quiz 1 Question 1 of 6

What is referred to as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;adventure hub of Namibia?

A. Caprivi B. Swakopmund C. Etosh D. Fish River Canyon Check Answer

NAMIBIA REGIONS Part of the allure of Namibia is that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four countries in one. Four different landscapes, each with its own characteristics and attractions. The most definitive is the Namib, a long coastal desert that runs the length of the country. The central plateau is divided between rugged mountain ranges and sand-filled valleys. Next is the vast Kalahari Desert with its ancient red sand and sparse vegetation. Finally, Kavango and Caprivi, blessed with tropical forests, perennial rivers and woodland savannahs.

The Capital City Namibia’s capital is Windhoek, a small bustling city with an estimated population of 280,000. Windhoek is situated in the Khomas region, the name reflecting the importance of the Khomas Hochland mountains The Khomas region is divided into the escarpment of the Khomas Hochland and the inland plateau. It is characterised by three prominent mountain ranges, namely the Eros mountain to the north-east of Windhoek, the Auas mountain to the South-east and the Khomas Hochland range to the West.

transports passengers between Katutura and Khomasdal to Windhoek and its various suburbs. The central business area is easily negotiable/ navigable on foot. Museum: Windhoek hosts the National Museum of Namibia, the Alte Feste Museum and the Owela Museum. A new Independence Memorial Museum is currently under construction next to the Alte Feste Museum. More museums include the TransNamib Railway Museum and Geological Museum. The City of Windhoek is currently renovating a historical building to be converted into a Windhoek City Museum. The Windhoek City Museum is being developed in conjunction with the City of Vantaa, Finland.

The region is characterised by its hilly country-side and many valleys, averaging an altitude between 1400 and 1600 metres above sea level. The region's environment comprises of the highland savannah and the camelthorn savannah suitable for livestock farming and contains beautiful scenery, a variety of wildlife on focus, as well as a fairly rich bird fauna. The rivers that rise in the highlands penetrate the Namib and Kalahari deserts to the West and East. Increasing numbers of game farms and lodges are taking advantage of Windhoek's thriving tourism industry.

Culture: Cultural tours can be undertaken to the township of Katutura, while a simple stroll through the city offers a glimpse on different traditions and cultural lifestyles. Many shops and street stalls also sell cultural products and artifacts. A creative treat for locals and visitors – the best of local arts and culture – is the annual four-day /Ae//Gams Arts and Cultural Festival presented by the City of Windhoek at the beginning of September. The festival showcases Namibia's artistic diversity through music, cuisine, traditional dances, crafts, paintings and poetry at various venues throughout the city. The main objective of the festival is to make the City of Windhoek a vibrant cultural and tourist destination in Africa.

Windhoek is often described as a city with a ‘continental’ atmosphere. Its architecture is dominated by historical buildings dating back to German colonial rule and its cuisine, culture, dress codes and educational institutions resemble something you might encounter in Europe. At the same time Windhoek has the color, sounds and tempo of a modern African city. Pavement displays of African drums and woodcarvings from the north contrast with elegant shops offering sophisticated typically Namibian Swakara garments and Namibian gemstones and diamonds set in individually designed pieces of jewelry.

History: Because of the many hot springs in the area, Windhoek was initially known as Ai-gams (correctly spelt /Ai //Gams to indicate the click sound), a Nama word meaning ‘firewater’, ‘steam’ or ‘smoke’, and Otjomuise, a Herero word meaning the ‘place of steam’. The Nama captain, Jan Jonker Afrikaner, gave the town the name it carries today. In the early 1840s Afrikaner settled where the most powerful spring reached the surface. It is thought that in a moment of nostalgia he named the place after Winterhoek, the farm in the Cape where he was born. During the German colonial administration the town was called Windhuk, which was subsequently changed to Windhoek.

Suggested Stay: Windhoek can be explored in a few hours to get a feeling of the place, or three to four days. Access: The city can be accessed by air via the international airport, Hosea Kutako and regionally via Eros airport. Located in the centre of the country, the two main routes, from east to west and north to south, as well as the main railroads lead through Windhoek. Public transport in the city consists mainly of taxis, while a bus service

Accommodations: As the capital city, Windhoek offers a wide range of accommodation, ranging from the new five-star Hilton hotel, to guest 17

houses, hotel pensions, bed and breakfast facilities, backpacker’s lodging and camping.

Restaurants Top restaurants are Leo’s at the Castle at Hotel Heinitzburg in Klein Windhoek, which offers haute cuisine, superior wines and magnificent views over Windhoek; the ever-popular Gathemann Restaurant on Independence Avenue with seating on a balcony overlooking Windhoek’s main street and Zoo Park, especially good for Namibian specialities; and The Gourmet in the Kaiserkrone Centre off Post Street Mall, popular especially with locals.

Adventures: Cycling, horse riding, motor biking and quad biking, mountain climbing, mountain biking and hiking are all available. Entertainment: Windhoek has an active and lively community of art and craftspeople. For performing art enthusiasts, a welcome addition to the arts and entertainment scene is Backstage, an intimate lounge theatre where entertainment ranges from solo and ensemble performances of jazz, folk, bluegrass and classical music, to intimate dramas and belly dancing. The 99fm Playhouse Theatre, in the historical Old Breweries Building, presents plays and live music, including jazz, blues and cabaret. Performances by the Windhoek Symphony Orchestra, as well as ballet, opera and theatre, also from South Africa and further abroad, are staged by the National Theatre of Namibia at the NTN theatre. The NTN collaborates closely with the Franco-Namibian Cultural Centre (FNCC), which imports internationally acclaimed theatrical productions from other African countries, Europe and the island of Reunion. The College of the Arts and the Performing Arts Department of the University of Namibia (UNAM) present programs ranging from music recitals to art, drama, ballet and experimental theatre. The annual Bank Windhoek Arts Festival promotes hundreds of Namibian amateur and professional productions and art exhibitions. The BWAF also supports a number of galleries in Windhoek where exhibitions of contemporary art and design are regularly held.

Am Weinberg on Jan Jonker Road in Klein Windhoek has one of the best settings in town and Sardinia Restaurant, a popular establishment located on the corner of Independence Avenue and Garten Street, serves fine Italian cuisine. In the centre of town, the Kalahari Sands Hotel with its revamped Dunes Restaurant offers a buffet and carvery with seating on a terrace overlooking Independence Avenue, and at the lower end of the main street on the corner of Bahnhof Street in the Protea Hotel Thüringer Hof is The Ivy Grill House. One of Windhoek’s early residences overlooking the city was lovingly restored to house the Wine Bar & Wine Shop on what was previously known as Windmill Hill in Garten Street. It offers a selection of exquisite light dishes, but is perhaps better known for its premium selection of imported wines. The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro is new in town and is fast becoming a favourite amongst the wine connoisseurs of Namibia. Located in the Bougain Villas shopping centre it offers a lovely venue, a fine selection of private cellar wines and exclusive rights to serve the premium meat produce of Namibia.

Windhoek has numerous bars and nightspots where music is played until all hours of the morning. The Ster Kinekor complex at Maerua Mall has five small auditoriums, which screen primarily mainstream films.

Windhoek also has a few restaurants offering traditional African foods, including La Marmite, a cosy and quaint restaurant on Independence Avenue that serves typical West-African food. Xwama Cultural Village in Katutura offers traditional foods and features dance groups by arrangement. A restaurant in Windhoek West serving a mixture of African and western cuisine is Fusion, which caters for lunch and dinner.

Where to eat in: Windhoek offers an eclectic variety of restaurants catering for most tastes, including those of adventurous gourmets interested in savouring local specialities, light eaters looking for a simple lunch or quick snack, and vegetarians.

Oriental cuisine can be enjoyed at the Chinese restaurant, Chez Wou, in the Windhoek Country Club Resort on the western bypass, and at 18

one of Windhoek’s older establishments, the Yang Tze Chinese Restaurant in the Yang Tze Shopping Centre opposite Schoeman’s Corner in Sam Nujoma Drive. Japanese fare is served in the Sushi Bar in the NICE Complex in Windhoek West on the corner of Hosea Kutako Drive and Mozart Street. NICE – the Namibian Institute of Culinary Education – consists of a vocational training project and a Chef ’s Finishing School linked to a profit-generating restaurant section to give students full-on practical exposure to their profession.

The newly opened Paguel, situated in lower Independence Avenue, offers international cuisine, a tapas bar and oyster lounge. The Hilton Hotel also caters for a wide variety of tastes in the Ekipa Restaurant, Kalabar Bar and Terrace, Centrum Lounge and Terrace, and has the Sky Bar on the rooftop for cocktails and light snacks. Cafés, coffee bars, bistros and delicatessen Newly opened in 2011 is Flaunt, a coffee shop and bistro in the Maerua Lifestyle Centre, serving an array of healthy as well as decadent dishes, while the Bean There coffee shop in the Maerua SuperSpar is also popular. Also in the Maerua Lifestyle Centre is Café Sol, serving fusion foods and cocktails, as well as a wide selection of wines. Another new café, Out to Lunch, is located in the courtyard of the Goethe Centre in Fidel Castro Street and serves light meals freshly prepared daily. The Franco-Namibia Cultural Centre’s Blue Frog Restaurant is another popular meeting point, specialising in a fusion of French-Namibian cuisine inspired by the traditional foods of Provence. The Garlic & Flowers café and restaurant, located in the courtyard between the National Theatre of Namibia and the National Art Gallery of Namibia, prides itself in its home-cooked foods with a unique African flair, and hosts fashion shows, DJs and bands on a regular basis.

Other places specialising in sushi and other Japanese foods are the Haiku Sushi & Wine Bar at Auas City Hotel, and Sushi & Teppanyaki Grill in Maerua Mall. In the Hidas Centre on Sam Nujoma Drive is Zum Wurzelsepp, where the owners have developed new combinations of ingredients to introduce German tastes to newcomers in a novel way. Situated in lower Nelson Mandela Avenue, the ever-popular Joe’s Beerhouse with its rustic décor, open-air, kraal-style rondavel-andthatch seating and live music at night is well patronised by tourists and locals alike. There are three Portuguese restaurants in the capital: O’ Portuga, in Sam Nujoma Drive (close to the Blue Olive delicatessen on Schoemanshoek), which is especially good for fish and seafood; Kubata Restaurant in Nelson Mandela Avenue diagonally opposite the Eros Post Office; and O Pensador, on the corner of Mandume Ndemefayo Avenue and John Meinert Street.

The Alabasta Café in the Windhoek Arts and Crafts Shop in Sam Nujoma Drive serve coffee, snacks and light meals with an African twist. Pastelaria Lua de Mel is a Mediterranean restaurant and deli with a variety of pastries and other specialities situated in the Elsa Building at 23 Sam Nujoma Drive. Amongst the greenery of the Wilde End Nursery at 41 Berg Street in Klein Windhoek is the Cicada Café, where delicious salads, vegetarian fare, light meals and a variety of homemade cakes are served. On the corner of Liliencron Street and Robert Mugabe Avenue, as part of a village-style development in Eros Park, is Fresh ‘n Wild, which offers delicious breakfasts and lunches, the latter according to a menu that changes every day, and sundowners on Friday evenings until 20:00. Fresh ‘n Wild also has a second branch in the Utopia Centre in Nelson Mandela Avenue. Café Balalaika (formerly Café Zoo), in Windhoek’s central and wellfrequented Zoo Park, also offers light meals, sushi and karaoke in a re-

A good restaurant for fish is Ocean Basket in Town Square in Post Street Mall in the middle of town, with a second branch at the Maerua Lifestyle Centre. Also in the Maerua Lifestyle Centre is the Mountain Eagle Spur and an St Elmo’s pizza branch. On Sam Nujoma Drive is the popular Luigi & the Fish, a restaurant complex with several components including a bar, grill and room where children are entertained. The perfect choice for meat lovers is Escape to Nature (previously known as Iitumba), located in a spectacular setting in the Auas Mountains south of Windhoek, and offering a full à-la-carte menu, featuring a wide variety of meat, chicken and fish. 19

laxed outdoor setting. If your children need a safe place to play while you have a relaxing lunch, the Tea Pot Coffee Shop at Ferreira’s Garden Nursery has a well-equipped playground.

Independence Avenue. Waitresses walk around in traditional dirndl dresses serving serve delicious cakes, Brötchen and light meals. A mall of gastronomic delights Maerua Mall in southern Windhoek, accessible from Robert Mugabe Avenue, Jan Jonker Road and Centaurus Road, offers a wide spectrum of food outlets for young and old alike, for example the Fudge Factory, where you’ll find over 100 different types of fudge. Most of these indulgences are made on the premises. Specifically targeted at kids is Sweet Village, displaying an appetising array of brightly coloured pleasures.

The Craft Café in the Namibia Craft Centre in Tal Street offers tempting light meals, home bakes and coffees. It stays open from Monday to Friday from 09:00 until 18:30 and on Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 to 15:30. Also in the Old Breweries Complex in the courtyard behind the Namibia Craft Centre is Paul’s Coffee Shop, which serves light lunches. The Brazza coffee bar in Maerua Mall serves good coffee, light meals and Italian-style snacks. Dulcé Café is another popular meeting point for coffee lovers. Other coffee bars around town are the Mugg & Bean in Town Square on Post Street Mall and in Maerua Mall, the Wecke & Voigts Coffee Bar, a traditional meeting place where locals meet for coffee and Brötchen, and Square Café in the Carl List Mall.

Newly opened in September 2011 is Qué Tapas, a Spanish bar and restaurant specialising in tapas and priding themselves on making the best cocktails in Windhoek. The restaurant is situated in a quite corner on the second floor at the southern entrance to the mall. Kopi Bakery up a flight of stairs near the cinema is a touch of old Europe. Freshly baked bread and rolls are on sale here from Monday to Saturday until 13:30. For those with a taste for the traditional, there’s Billy Bites and The Biltong Shop, where many kinds of biltong are sold. On the other end of the scale, for those looking for a touch of the exotic, there is the Sushi and Teppanyaki Grill, open every day from 11:00 onwards and serving a range of Japanese food favourites in a vibrant red, deep brown and white setting.

Another Windhoek bistro-type eatery is the SNOB espresso bar, tucked away off the Ausspannplatz, accessible from Dr Augustinho Neto Street. In Sam Nujoma Drive, as part of Schoemans Corner, is the Blue Olive, where home-made olive breads, tapenades, a variety of pestos and other Mediterranean specialties can be bought and light meals are served during office hours. Located in Nelson Mandela Avenue is Virmar Delicatessen & Fisheries, a shop that sells fresh fish and other Portuguese specialities, and in the Bougain Villas complex, Sugar & Spice, a pancake parlour. The well-known specialist in local meat, Hartlief, offers coffee and light snacks at Hartlief ’s Shop & Bistro to customers who have come to buy meat at the butchery at its headquarters in the Northern Industrial Area.

If you’re looking for something substantial, Steers and Fish Aways are where to go. The coffee bar at Woermann Brock is a rewarding place for people watching. Or you could go to Brazza situated just inside the Stuttafords entrance to the Mall. Or sample coffee, enjoy a meal and be dazzled by the vibrant and sophisticated décor at the Italian-style Dulcé Café.

A good place to relax and enjoy breakfast, coffee and lunch in an informal street-café atmosphere is Café Schneider in Levinson Arcade, opposite the main post office. In’s Wiener in Wernhil Park offers good light lunches and other refreshments, while the newly opened Tornado, situated on the second floor of the revamped mall, and open from 9am to 21pm, is popular for pizzas and cocktails.

There are also the franchised Wimpy Restaurant and Cattle Baron steak house, Primi Piatti, Mugg & Bean, and Panarottis serving an eclectic range of pizzas.

Sonja’s Kaffeestube is a German café situated in the BPI House in 20

26 August, – referred to as Heroes’ Day – thousands of Hereros converge on the town to pay homage at the graves of their great chiefs. Some of the women are dressed in traditional red and black, others in green and black, while the men wear full military regalia, complete with medals. Visitors are welcome to view this rich and colorful ceremony. According to historian Dr H Vedder, the name Okahandja comes from Herero and means ‘small widening’, the place where the rivers meet. The earliest records of the town date back to 1844 when the first two missionaries arrived there. The year 1894, however, is regarded as the birth of the town, as Okahandja became a military base in this year and a fort was built.

Central Region Main Towns: The central area comprises towns such as Rehoboth, to the south of Windhoek, Okahandja and Otjiwarongo, both situated north of the capital, and Omaruru to the north west. Suggested Stay: Suggested stay, five days to a week. Getting There: At the moment the central area is only accessible via road, or private air charter at certain accommodation facilities. A private airport is in the process of construction at Okahandja.The central region is best explored by car.

The historical town of Rehoboth sits amongst relatively dense acacia woodland of camel-thorn, sweet-thorn and candle-pod acacia. It is inhabited by the Baster community, descendants of people of mixed parentage who trekked across the Orange River under their leader Hermanus van Wyk and settled at Rehoboth in 1870. The history of the Rehoboth Basters is recorded in the Rehoboth Museum. Displays detail the cultural heritage of the Basters and archaeological finds in the area, such as an open-air burial site. In earlier times a camel-thorn tree referred to as Kaptein’s Tree was the venue for the meetings of the Kapteinsraad, an equivalent of Chief ’s Council. Accommodations: Accommodation in the central area comprises anything from hotels and guesthouses, to camping and self-catering. Adventure Activities: Stargazing is a popular activity in the central region and many farms, such as Hakos (135 km from Windhoek) offers telescopes for viewing the night skies. Other activities on lodges and guest farms in the area include quad biking, horse riding and cheetah feeding, amongst others.

National Parks: There are no national parks in the region, but the Daan Viljoen Game Park (just outside of Windhoek), Von Bach Recreation Resort (just outside Okahandja) and Gross-Barmen Hot Springs Resort (100km northwest of Windhoek) are nature reserves that provide similar opportunities to explore the outdoors. History: A unique display of Baster history can be viewed in the Rehoboth Museum housed in the old Postmaster’s House next to the Post Office in Rehoboth. Also on display are regional archaeological finds, ethnological artifacts and copper-mining exhibits. The Omaruru Museum housed in the Rhenish Mission House, a national monument in the main street in Omaruru, is usually closed, but keys can be obtained from the Municipality. Culture: The Okahandja Cultural Village houses homesteads of seven of Namibia’s cultural groups – the San, Tswana, Caprivians, Damara, Ovahimba/Ovahere and Owambo – with the aims of preserving and teaching the country’s cultural diversity. It is situated 10 km outside Okahandja off the Hochveld Road. History: Okahandja is a town of great significance to the Herero people because it was once the seat of Chief Samuel Maharero. Every year on

South Region The highlight of the southern region is the Fish River Canyon, Namibia’s most spectacular geological phenomenon and second in grandeur only to the Grand Canyon in North America. Main Towns: Major towns in the region are Mariental, Keetmanshoop and Lüderitz. Suggested Stay: As towns are quite far from each other, it is recommended to allow some extra time for this region. From seven to ten days should be sufficient.

tree or kokerboom, Aloe dichotoma, and Euphorbia gregaria, the canyon is a spectacular natural phenomenon that took hundreds of millions of years to evolve. Some 50km southwest of Keetmanshoop en route to Seeheim is the Naute Recreation Resort, where a large variety of birds can be found. Museums: Situated at the edge of the Namib Desert is Duwisib Castle, built in 1908/9 by the legendary Baron von Wolf. The castle houses antique furniture, works of art and firearms from the 18th and 19th centuries, imported from Germany. Housed in one of the oldest mission houses in Namibia is the small Schmelenhaus Museum in Bethanie, containing natural history and Rhenish missionary displays.

Getting There: There is a commercial airport at Lüderitz and it is much more convenient to get there by aircraft, as it is quite a distance to cover by road. Alternatively, as the roads to these destinations are all tarred and mostly extend over a flat surface, it is comfortable to travel by road. Even though towns and interesting attractions are far removed, the region (as the rest of Namibia) is best explored by car, as it allows access to off the beaten track destinations. Day trips from Windhoek to the Fish River Canyon and Lüderitz are only possible when travelling by aircraft.

The Keetmanshoop Museum, accommodated in the beautifully restored Rhenish Mission Church in Kaiser Street, is a community museum that depicts the history of Keetmanshoop and traditional culture of the Nama people. The community-based Warmbad Museum is a collaboration between the Warmbad Community Based Tourism Enterprise (WCBTE) and the History Department of the University of Namibia. It houses displays with many pictures and items that are unique to Namibia.

National Parks: The Sperrgebiet National Park was proclaimed in 2008. While it is still largely undeveloped and much of it remains inaccessible to visitors, a small section of this wild landscape can be explored with a guided group, accompanied by an official of the MET. Because the Sperrgebiet, due to its diamond wealth, has been off limits to the public for close to a century, the habitat is largely untouched and pristine, making a visit to the park a truly unique wilderness experience.

The Lüderitz Museum in Diaz Street in the harbour town is a private local history museum, offering special displays on the Dias expeditions of discovery, mining of diamonds and other minerals, and the history of Lüderitz. In the outdoor courtyard are colonial-era wagons, whalebones, mining equipment and a cannon.

The Hardap Recreation Resort (45km west of Mariental) is surrounded by a game park and bird sanctuary. Proclaimed in 2003, the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park on the banks of the Orange River is Namibia’s first transfrontier park.

Ten kilometres east of Lüderitz is the Kolmanskop Ghost Town, an open-air museum, which recounts the history of this abandoned diamond mining community that is now half submerged in the drifting sands of the Namib Desert. Several of the houses are kept clear of sand for viewing by visitors. Another private enterprise is the Sperrgebiet Museum in 7th Avenue, Oranjemund, which contains displays of local history, minerals and mining, fossils and regional history, and arte-

The Fish River Canyon Park, which falls in the /Ai-/Ais transfrontier area, is also found in the southern region. Set in a harsh, stony plain, dotted with drought-resistant succulents such as the distinctive quiver 22

facts from Sperrgebiet ghost towns.

Namibia’s most famous ghost town, Kolmanskop, is situated in the Sperrgebiet about 10 km inland from Lüderitz. It was named after transport driver Johnny Coleman, who lived in the tiny settlement of Aus at the turn of the century. During a fierce sandstorm he was forced to abandon his ox wagon on the small incline from where Kolmanskop can be seen. It stood there for a while, giving rise to the name Colemanshuegel, which eventually became Kolmanskop. In 1908 the railway worker Zacharias Lewala found a sparkling stone in the sand he was shovelling away from the railway line near Kolmanskop. August Stauch, his supervisor, was convinced he had found a diamond. When this was confirmed, the news spread like wildfire, sparking a frantic diamond rush and causing fortune hunters to converge in droves on Kolmanskop. It soon became a bustling little centre, featuring a butchery, bakery, furniture factory, soda water and lemonade plant, four-skittle alley, public playground and even a swimming pool.

Culture: The Aus Information Centre (located in the town of Aus, en route to Lüderitz) provides ample information on all aspect of the area, including culture. San/Bushmen tours can also be conducted in the Kalahari Desert to learn more about these peoples’ culture. Bushmen trackers take guest on foot trails into the veld to show them their means and ways of survival. Cultural experiences are most often offered by lodges – check with accommodations on what cultural experiences they offer guests. History: Lüderitz was initially referred to as Angra Pequena, meaning Little Bay, by the Portuguese, whose navigator Bartolomeu Dias erected a stone cross on Dias Point on 25 July, 1488. Heinrich Vogelsang, agent of the German merchant from Bremen, Adolf Lüderitz, landed at Angra Pequena on 9 April, 1883, to establish a trading station. Following negotiations with the Khoekhoe chief, Joseph Fredericks from Bethanie, he purchased the land within an 8-km radius of Angra Pequena. In April 1884 this land became part of the Protectorate of the German Empire, marking the beginning of German colonial control in Namibia, referred to then as Deutsch–Südwest–Afrika. Lüderitz is renowned for its old-world charm and distinctly German colonial architecture. Set around the bay, these buildings with their gables, winding stairwells, verandas, turrets and bay and bow windows, have a unique character all of their own.

The town’s development reached its pinnacle in the twenties, with approximately 300 German adults, 40 of their children and 800 Owambo contract workers living there. In spite of, or probably because of, the isolation and bleakness of the surrounding desert, Kolmanskop developed into a lively little haven of German culture, offering entertainment and recreation to suit the requirements of the affluent colonialists, for whom large, elegant houses were built. The well-equipped hospital boasted Southern Africa’s first X-ray machine. However, when richer diamond deposits were discovered further south, operations were moved to Oranjemund. Today the crumbling ruins of the ghost town bear little resemblance to its former glory. The stately homes, their grandeur now scoured and demolished by the wind, are gradually becoming enveloped by encroaching sand. In 1980 the mining company CDM (now Namdeb) restored a number of the buildings and established a museum for tourist viewing.

One of the most striking is Goerkehaus built in 1909 on the slopes of Diamond Mountain. The Felsenkirche (Evangelical Lutheran Church) close by, consecrated in 1912, looks especially striking in the late afternoon when the stained-glass windows are illuminated by the setting sun. Other buildings are the old Station Building (1914), the old Post Office (1908) and the Turnhalle (1912–1913). In the ‘old town’ are Kreplin House (1909) and Troost House (1909). The Lüderitz Museum was founded as a private collection by Friedrich Eberlanz, who arrived in Lüderitz in 1914. The focus in the museum is on the early history of the town and aspects of the surrounding desert.

Aus has several historical buildings and traces of crucial historical events, including World War I. And Aus is a starting point for viewing the wellknown wild horses of Garub and a trading centre for the karakul farmers of the surroundings. The historic Bahnhof Hotel invites travellers to re23

lax on the shady veranda, and the Aus Tourist Information Centre welcomes weary visitors with a good cup of coffee or tea, cake and other refreshments.

motifs in the shape of the Star of David, lending an interesting detail to the tall windows of Schützenhaus. The previous owner transferred the windows to the house when the old Jewish Synagogue in Keetmanshoop was demolished.

The historical town of Bethanie, one of the oldest settlements in the country, lies west of Keetmanshoop. It can be visited from the road leading to Lüderitz. A significant historical event took place in Bethanie in 1883 when the first recorded deed of sale was signed at the house of the 19th century Nama Chief, Joseph Fredericks, for the land that was to become known as Lüderitz. Buildings of historical interest in Bethanie are Schmelenhaus, built in 1814, and the Rhenish Mission Church, which replaced the original twin-tower mission church and was inaugurated in 1899.

For most Namibians the small settlement of Warmbad in southern Namibia is a mere dot on the map. However, in historical times Warmbad occupied a prominent place in the country. Two hundred years ago the Albrecht brothers, Abraham and Christian, as representatives of the London Missionary Association, settled in Warmbad to introduce Christianity to local inhabitants. By then, in addition to its Nama residents, including Bondelswarts people who were farming in the surroundings, the settlement was an important stopover for big-game hunters, traders and adventurers en route to and from South Africa. Thus, although these activities started as early as 1760, the Albrecht brothers are regarded as the founders of Warmbad. Today the town is inhabited primarily by Nama people, a friendly race with a rich history of folklore and tales of heroism in battle. Of great historical interest in Warmbad is the site where the Bondelswarts leader, Jan Christiaan Abraham, was shot and killed by German district officer Lieutenant Jobst when resisting arrest in 1903. The Bondelswarts retaliated by shooting Lieutenant Jobst and a noncommissioned officer, an incident that gave rise to the Bondelswarts taking up arms against the Germans. This historic event is re-enacted every year on the weekend preceding or following 25 October. Also of interest in Warmbad is the stone entrance built between 1907 and 1913 as a gateway to the German fort. Completed around 1895, the fort with its single tower was enclosed by a stone wall. Although the fort no longer exists, the remains of the Schutztruppe stables with their beautiful stone cribs can still be seen. Nearby is the old prison building with its two cells, still in a relatively good condition. To appreciate the historic attractions offered by Warmbad, it is best to engage the services of a guide.

Main centre and focal point of the scenic and historic attractions in the south is Keetmanshoop. Founded in 1860 by the Rhenish Mission Society, the town still retains vestiges of its original German buildings, as well as several dating back to the arrival of the first Europeans, who trekked across the Orange River to trade, hunt and explore the land. The first of these expeditions was in 1791. It was led by Hendrik Hop, who trekked as far as Hainabis on the Löwen River, about 12 km from the Keetmanshoop of today. In 1866 preacher John Schröder of the German Missionary Society built a shelter at Keetmanshoop from which to operate. It is said that the two acacias he used to support the shelter are still alive and well. Schröder approached the rich industrialist, Johan Keetman, chairman of the society, for funds to build a church and dwelling for himself and his family. Keetman donated 2 000 German marks for the church, and was rewarded for his generosity by having the settlement named after him, although he never saw the town himself. The first version of the Rhenish Mission Church built by Johan Schröder was swept away in 1890 by floodwaters of the Swartmodder River. It was then rebuilt on higher ground, completed in 1895, and used until 1930. It is now a museum with displays depicting the colourful past of the region. Eagle’s Monument, built between 1897–1907 in remembrance of the casualties in the battles fought with the Bondelswarts and the Namas and declared a National Monument in 1966, can be viewed in the Garden of Remembrance. A former officer’s barracks built in German colonial times, the Turnverein Gut Heil, has been converted into tourist accommodation. Much of the German architectural style was retained, as well as unexpected Jewish

Accommodations: Accommodation includes hotels, guest farms, lodges, guesthouses, and the likes. Adventure Activities: Often compared in terms of difficulty to the daunting Otter Trail in South Africa, the Fish River Hiking Trail ranks amongst 24

the Big Five hiking trails in the Southern African Region. The 85-km-long route, which most hikers complete in four to five days, starts at the northernmost lookout point close to the Hobas Campsite. Chain handholds are provided at the beginning of the trail and at the bottom is an enormous pool in which hikers can cool off before continuing further. There are no overnight stops along the route, enabling hikers to determine their own pace and set up camp where they choose. The trail ends at /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs, where hikers can relax in the soothing thermal waters of the spring around which the resort was developed.

and Ugab rivers is renowned for its excellent angling potential. To protect the most frequented central coast area against damage caused by offroad driving, the stretch between Sandwich Harbour and the Ugab River was proclaimed as the Dorob National Park national park in 2008. Namibian coastline is a haven for countless unique plants, animals and birds, a special feature of international interest being the extensive occurrence of lichen fields. Over a hundred lichen species have been recorded in the Namib desert. 2

The Cape Cross Seal Reserve, with a surrounding area of 60 km consisting of flat gravel plains and the rock outcrop where the seals gather, was proclaimed in 1968 to protect the biggest and best known of the 23 colonies of Cape fur seals that breed along the coast of South Africa and Namibia. The reserve is situated approximately 130 km north of Swakopmund and is open daily from 08:00–17:00 (16 November–30 June) and 10:00–17:00 (1 July–15 November).

Half day, one day and five-night hikes are offered from Fish River Lodge on the western rim of the Fish River Canyon. The five-night luxury canyon hike is an invigorating 64 kilometer journey of discovery within 45 000 hectares of private park. The hike includes the first and last night at the lodge with four days hiking and three nights camping. Hikers carry only their lunch and water supply for the day – a back-up vehicle transports the tents and other luggage. Hikes are flexible in that guests can tailor-make their canyon experience from one night’s camping to four nights. The lodge is currently working on a quotation for 2012 for a group of four, two of which will hike and two who will cycle the route. All hikes are guided and are offered from 1 April to 30 September only. Activities further south include kayaking the Orange River to observe the birds and animals that frequent this internationally renowned Ramsar wetland site and viewing the wealth of succulents, some growing as tall as trees and many putting on a spectacular floral display after winter rains.

The Skeleton Coast Park, proclaimed in its present form in 1971, extends from the Ugab River in the south for 500 km to the Kunene River 2 in the north, covering an area of 16 845 km . It protects about one third of Namibia’s coastline. The landscape in the park ranges from sweeping vistas of windswept dunes to rugged canyons with walls of richly coloured volcanic rock and extensive mountain ranges. Over a hundred species of lichen grow on the plains and west-facing mountain slopes, changing colour and becoming soft and leathery to the touch when the coastal fog generated by the cold Benguela Current pushes inland. Animals occurring on the plains are gemsbok, springbok, jackal, ostrich and brown hyaena, while desert-adapted elephant and even black rhino, lion and giraffe roam up and down the dry river courses. Of special interest are the clay castles of the Hoarusib, the salt pans near the Agate Mountain and the seal colony at Cape Frio. The northern section of the Skeleton Coast Park is a tourism concession area and restricted to fly-in safaris only. The southern section – between the Ugab and Hoanib rivers – is accessible to the general public staying at Terrace Bay and Torra Bay. However, because of the ecological sensitivity of the surroundings, it is managed by the MET as a wilderness area.

Namib/Coast Main Towns: The main town for the coast and the Namib is Swakopmund. Other major towns are Walvis Bay and Henties Bay. Suggested Stay: As this area hosts some of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, it is recommended to spend at least a week (seven days) here. Getting There: Walvis Bay has a commercial airport, while many lodges in the Namib have private airstrips. Alternatively guests can get to these destinations by car. This area is best explored by car. National Parks: The 200-km stretch of coastline between the Swakop 25

A day permit to drive directly through the southern region of the park is obtainable from the MET Tourist Office in Swakopmund, as well as at the Ugab and Springbokwasser gates.

Museums: The Swakopmund Museum in the Old Customs House displays various archaeological and historical artefacts, models and dioramas illustrating the historic development of the area, the natural history of the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, botany, zoology, the mining industry, transportation, coins, medals and the cultural anthropology of Namibia’s ethnic groups.

Provisionally it has been called the Namib–Skeleton Coast National Park (NSCNP), because both Namib and Skeleton Coast are already well known, not only in conservation and tourism circles but worldwide, and the brand is regarded as strong by existing and potential new investors. The official name will be announced following further consultation and consideration. Soon to be proclaimed, the repackaged park will stretch along the entire Namibian coastline, a distance of some 1 570 km, from the Orange River in the south to the Kunene River in the north, comprising four main terrestrial Management Areas – the Sperrgebiet National Park (name under review) in the south; the Namib-Naukluft Park; the Dorob National Park; and the Skeleton Coast Park in the north. At its narrowest point in the Skeleton Coast, the park extends about 25 km inland, while at its widest in the Naukluft area it extends inland about 180 km to the top of the escarpment. Namibia will be the only continental country in the world that has its entire coastline protected as a national park. The new park will be the eighth-largest protected area in the world, the sixthlargest terrestrial protected area globally and the largest park in Africa, 2 covering an area of 107 540 km .

The Walvis Bay Museum in the Public Library Building in the Civic Centre of the harbour town has similar displays, with the focus on domestic and commercial developments in the town and its links with the sea. Another museum in Walvis Bay, the Apartheid and Contract Labour Museum, is still in the planning phases. When completed, the Walvis Bay Museum will also be relocated here. Culture: The first Alliance Francaise Cultural Centre was opened in Swakopmund in September 2010 and holds regular art exhibitions, shows films, hosts a library and teaches French classes. Just a few kilometres from the centre of Swakopmund is Mondesa, the township established in the early 1950s to provide housing for blacks working in Swakopmund. For tourists keen to experience Namibia through the eyes of the different ethnic groups of the country, Mondesa Township Tours provides a well-organised excursion. The tour portrays a living history, moving from the Owambo areas to those inhabited by Damara and Herero people. Stops are at Mondesa’s thriving market, the socalled DRC (Democratic Resettlement Community), and Meme Ali’s house, where visitors are offered a glass of oshikundu – a drink made by soaking mahangu (pearl millet) overnight – and invited for a meal.

Namibia’s most versatile conservation area and one of the country’s major tourist destinations is the Namib-Naukluft Park. An amalgamation of the Namib Desert Park (proclaimed in 1907), the Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park (created in 1966), unoccupied public land and a section of Diamond Area 2, the Namib-Naukluft Park was proclaimed in 1979 as one integrated reserve. Following the addition in 1990 of another portion of 2 Diamond Area 2, it now has a surface area of 49 768 km . In 2007 the Namib-Naukluft Park celebrated its hundredth year of existence. This vast wilderness contains key features such as Sossusvlei, Sesriem, the Welwitschia Trail, Sandwich Harbour, the Naukluft Mountains and the Kuiseb Canyon. The park is managed as a wilderness area, and accordingly has no large resorts, only serviced camping sites at Sesriem and Naukluft and a number of rudimentary camping sites in the Namib section.

An alternative township tour is Hata Angu Cultural Tours, Hata Angu meaning ‘Let’s get to know each other’ in Damara. These tours also start in Mondesa, and also visit the DRC (situated close to Swakopmund’s rubbish dump, fondly nicknamed by locals as The Hardware Store), and the house of ‘real’ people such as Ernst Thaniseb, his wife Elsie and their five children, who live in the DRC, where they have refreshments. The /Hai Hab Cultural Village near the Mondesa Police Station is an26

other place to learn more about the forgotten rural-rooted lifestyle. Brainchild of local resident Isak ≠Naweseb, the village consists of a traditional African restaurant that serves dishes like mopane worms, wild spinach, pap, mahangu, kapana and ash-bread, amongst others. For an afterdinner experience, visitors gather around a campfire and hear traditional stories intermingled with poems and songs. There is also a Haire Oms ancestral hut in which visitors can learn and purchase traditional medicines, while another room opens into a small curio shop. Bookings have to be made in advance.

A national monument, and the oldest building in Walvis Bay, is the Rhenish Mission Church, a timber structure that was built in Hamburg in 1880, then dismantled and shipped to Walvis Bay. Places of interest includes the historic cemetery along Ben Amathila Avenue, historic monuments such as the railway locomotive in front of the station and historical rail tracks on airport road. The Namib-Naukluft Park celebrated its 100th year of existence in 2007. On 22 March 1907, German Governor Frederich von Lindequist proclaimed three nature reserves, one of which was Game Reserve No 3 in the central Namib Desert. Renamed as the Namib Desert Park in 1962, it was amalgamated with the Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park (proclaimed in 1968) and unoccupied state land, and proclaimed as the Namib-Naukluft Park in 1979.

Accompanied by a local guide, visitors can go on self-drive township tours in Walvis Bay. One of the companies that offer these tours is Kuisebmond Township Tours, with its offices at the Waterfront. The Tutaleni Village and Relocation Project, which is located in the township, shows how the problem of overcrowding is solved with an innovative housing concept. More than 800 families have been relocated successfully and now enjoy amenities that previously seemed unattainable. The Tutaleni Village remains municipal property and will be treated as an ongoing project. It is sustained through the joint efforts of the resettled communities, the local authority and the private sector. The project won the Dubai Award for Best Practices in 2002.

Accommodations: Camping is especially popular in the Namib region, but accommodation in lodges, guest farms and tented lodges are also available. At the coast accommodation ranges from backpackers and guesthouses, to hotels and hotel pensions.

History: Founded in 1892 during German colonial rule, Swakopmund served as the territory’s main harbour for many years. Just before reaching Swakopmund from the interior, enclosed in a small glass-fronted structure, visitors can view the Martin Luther ‘steam-ox’ imported from Germany in 1896 to transport goods between the town and other settlements. When the steam tractor became irretrievably bogged down in the sand, it was dubbed Martin Luther, because of Luther’s historic statement in 1521, “Here I stand, may God help me, I can go no further.” The venue has a museum, toilet facilities and some curios for sale.

Adventure Activities: The coastal strip offers a selection of activities for adventure lovers, from quadbiking, ocean cruises, paragliding, sea kayaking, skydiving and sand boarding, to exploring the Namib on the back of a camel or horse, surfing and windsurfing, yachting and angling from the beach or a boat, the possibilities are endless. There are motocross and 4x4 rally facilities on the outskirts of Swakopmund. At Swakopmund you can enjoy an early-morning balloon flight and experience the contrast of the desert with the Atlantic Ocean as you drift along the coast.

Quaint architecture from a bygone era adds to the time-out-of-place atmosphere of Swakopmund. When approached from the interior, domes, turrets and towers on the skyline appear as a hazy desert mirage. Much of the distinct German colonial character has been preserved and today many of the town’s old buildings house shops, offices and other utility services.

Although shore fishing is still Henties Bay’s number one attraction, there is much more to do for those who don’t fish. Numerous walking trails start from points in the town and surroundings. Quad biking is another popular activity. This wonderland can also be explored along 4x4 routes to destinations such as the Messum Crater, Brandberg-West, the Ugab Menhir, Spitzkoppe, Omaruru River and various mineral mines. Infor27

mation booklets with GPS co-ordinates for each separate trail can be bought from the Tourist Officer at the Henties Bay Municipality. Options in Walvis Bay include The Raft restaurant on the lagoon and Crazy Mama’s Restaurant for pizza lovers. With an exciting menu that changes every two to three months, Lyon des Sables adds a French touch to Namibian cuisine and Langstrand Restaurant offers an African grill, seafood and stunning sea views. The Traveller’s Bistro in the Walvis Bay Tourism Centre serves breakfast, lunch and home-made cakes, sundowners and pizza. Other places to eat are the Buffalo’s Restaurant, Bonaroma Restaurant, Steve’s Take Away & O’Heilie’s Steakhouse, and Anchors @ the Jetty Restaurant, situated at the Walvis Bay Waterfront.

Balloon rides are available in the Namib Naukluft Park/Sossuvlei area, while hiking in this area is also very popular, with numerous hiking trails in the park, as well as in the NamibRand private nature reserve. Desert cycles and marathons are also conducted throughout the year. Entertainment: Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Henties Bay have many different venues offering entertainment. Clubs, bars and casinos offer the best nighttime entertainment. In Swakopmund the Brauhaus, Kücki’s pub and the Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre are all-time favorites. The Traveller’s Bistro in the Walvis Bay Tourism Centre serves nice sundowners. In Henties Bay the Dolphin’s Entertainment Centre, Pirate’s Cove sports bar and pizzeria, Spitzkoppe Restaurant & Pub and Skubbe Bar are popular options.

There is no form of nightlife or entertainment in the Namib though. East Main Town: Gobabis is the main town east of Windhoek. Suggested Stay: Two days. Getting There: Gobabis is accessible by road. In Gobabis itself, it is easy to get around in a taxi, but in the surrounding area a rented vehicle is needed to access destinations. Otherwise by organized tour. Museum:. At the Gobabis Museum an interesting range of colonial household and items and farming implements is displayed. Culture: San/Bushmen tours can also be conducted in the Kalahari Desert to learn more about these peoples’ culture. Bushmen trackers take guest on foot trails into the veld to show them their means and ways of survival. History: Gobabis developed around a mission station established in 1856 by Friederich Eggert of the Rhenish Missionary Society. In the latter half of the 1800s and the early 1900s, several conflicts flared up between the Mbanderu and the Khauas Khoekhoe, as well as between the settlers and the indigenous people. The Gobabis district was proclaimed by the German authorities in February 1894, and in June the following year, Gobabis was occupied by a German garrison. While the military fort, built in 1896/7, has long since disappeared, one of the few build-

Swakopmund has no less that 50 restaurants, many testifying to the town’s German heritage, such as the intimate Zur Weinmaus, the Zum Kaiser restaurant at the Boutique Hotel, Brauhaus, Kücki’s Pub, Zur Kupferpfanne and the Wurstbude. Coffee and German-style confectionery are served at Café Anton and Café Treff, and delicious ice cream at Gelateria Bella Italia. Then there are Café Rosso, Arkaden Kaffee, Pandora’s Box Café, the funky Village Café and Ocean Basket. Raith’s, the ever-popular bakery, deli, bistro and gelateria, is situated in the centre of town, with the Art Africa Garden Café serving light, healthy meals right around the corner. The Jetty Restaurant serves seafood, sushi and oysters in a spectacular setting at the edge of the revamped jetty. At the Mole Strand Café, now boasts a new look and menu, while The Lighthouse is a popular spot for watching the waves and indulging in a selection of foods. Erich’s Restaurant offers unusual fare such as crocodile steak. Cape to Cairo specialises in African food, and Il Tulipano in Italian fare. Then there’s De Kelder, The Grapevine, The Secret Garden Bistro, Immenhof Farm Kitchen and, many more! 28

ings dating back to that era is the field hospital, or Lazarette, which has been declared a national monument.

The Namutoni Museum at Etosha National Park tells about the history of Fort Namutoni and showcase some of the weapons used in the fight between the Germans and Nehale Ya Mpingana’s troops.

Accomodations: A large range of accommodation is available in the east.

In the Oshikoto Region in northern Namibia is the Nakambale Museum and Olukonda National Monument, offering guided excursions to sites of cultural, historical and natural interest, such as the Uukwaludhi Royal Homestead near the town of Tsandi in the Omusati Region, and the traditional house belonging to King Taapopi of Uukwaludhi.

Adventure Activities: Gobabis is not really known for its adventure activities, but some accommodation facilities in the area offer activities such as horse riding, hiking and animal feedings. North West Main Towns: Towns in the northwest include Outjo, Khorixas, Kamanjab, Opuwo, Oshakati and Ondangwa. Suggested Stay: Seven to ten days would be ideal to explore the North West. Getting there: Many lodges have private airstrips, and the northern parts of the Skeleton Coast can only be reached by private air charter (and through the company that holds the concession), but otherwise all other destinations can be reached by car. The Ondangwa Airport. The area is best explored by car.

Also of historical interest is the Ombalantu Baobab Tree in the centre of Ombalantu Village, 80 km west of Oshakati. The site is managed by the Ombalantu Boabab Tree Heritage Centre, which also has camping facilities for the outdoors enthusiast. Culture: The Damara Living Museum displays the pre-colonial dress and traditions of the Damara of Twyfelfontein. The museum features a traditional village with various huts, livestock and demonstrations of singing, dancing and games. Also offered is an interesting bush walk, showing visitors trapping and snaring, and different bush foods. Visits to Himba settlements are more possibilities, while a good option for learning about Owambo culture firsthand is to visit the Uukwaluudhi Traditional Homestead at Tsandi.

National Parks: The Etosha National Park, Namibia’s best-known National Park falls in this region. Consisting of saline desert, savannah and woodlands, the definitive feature of the park is the Etosha Pan, a vast, 2 shallow depression of approximately 5 000 km . For the greater part of the year the pan is a bleak expanse of white, cracked mud that shimmers with mirages on most days. Seeing vast herds of game against this eerie backdrop, referred to in the local vernacular as the ‘great white place of dry water’, makes the Etosha game-viewing experience unique. The northern section of the Skeleton Coast Park also falls in this region. Museums: The history of Outjo and surroundings is depicted in the Outjo Museum, where the focus is on gemstones and wildlife. The museum is housed in Franke House, built in 1899 for the German commanding officer, Hauptmann Franke.

The Oshakati Omatala is the largest open market in Namibia. And the Ongwediva Trade Fair is an annual event that hosts exhibitors from all over Africa. History: A visit can be arranged to the historical Omuguluwombase where the guerrilla warfare waged by SWAPO forces for Namibia’s independence was launched. Guided tours are conducted on a daily basis to the Eenhana Heroes Memorial Shrine, depicting the history of the liberation struggle and acknowledging the courage of the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN) combatants and civilians who supported them. 29

The Ombalantu Baobab Heritage Centre’s main attraction is a huge baobab tree estimated to be around 800 years old and which has served as a post office, chapel and hiding place during tribal wars. The site, located in Outapi, also offers camping sites laid out under the tree, a small kiosk, craft centre and facilities for day visitors.

Getting there: For flying safaris, most lodges have private landing strips for guests, but usually people travel by road. In fact, traveling by car is the most popular way of getting around this region. Accommodations: Safari camps, lodges, camping sites and guesthouses offer accommodation in this area.

Accommodations: Towns in the region offer hotels, guesthouses and pension hotels, while lodges and campsites are more options to choose from in the surrounding area.

Adventure Activities: Cave diving is possible for experienced divers at Lake Otjikoto, Dragon’s Breath Cave, Harasib and Lake Guinas. Hiking, both guided and unguided, on the Waterberg are popular activities. A bicycle fun ride, organized by the TOV Multipurpose Centre in Tsumeb is conducted annually.

Adventure Activities:. Camel rides, horse rides, hiking, and off-road driving are popular adventure activities. Well-known destinations for the 4x4 driver include the breathtaking Epupa Falls on the Kunene River, the Marienfluss and Hartmann valleys, the Himba settlement of Purros and the Ongongo Pools. The Palmwag concession area is renowned for its sightings of desert-dwelling elephant and black rhino.

Main Attractions: The Waterberg Plateau Park is the main attraction on the way from Windhoek towards the northeast region. Rising some 650 ft above the surrounding African bush and savannah, the Plateau with its flamboyant brick-red sandstone formations and lush green vegetation presents an island of vibrant colour. The 156 sq mile park, situated 38 miles east of Otjiwarongo and 120 miles north-east of Windhoek, was declared protected in 1972.

A sponsored walk that raises money for the conservation of elephants in Namibia takes place yearly. Then there’s the Desert Rhino cycle and Mike Hearn Memorial Cycle that also takes place on a yearly basis. Canoeing safaris on the Kunene River is also possible. A balloon flight over the Twyfelfontein Conservancy will give you a bird’s-eye view over magnificent Damaraland desert scenery, which includes a unique variety of desert flora and fauna and fascinating geological formations. Entertainment: Bennie’s Entertainment Park and Lodge is a popular meeting place and provides leisure activities in the forms of putt-putt mini golf, volleyball, table tennis, super-tubing, swimming and gambling.

The Okakarara Community, Cultural and Tourism Centre (OCCTC) is a short drive from the Waterberg Plateau. It contains displays focusing on the culture of the Ovaherero community and their war against German colonial forces in the early twentieth century. Museums: Okaepe Living Museum and school project, located 34 miles east of Okakarara, children of the primary school entertain tourists with traditional dances, games and songs, ceremonies and scenes from everyday life. Performances depict the traditional Herero way of life, the close relationship of the Herero with their cattle, the bravery of the herders when defending their herds against predators and Herero wedding ceremonies. Tours are undertaken to the San community where visitors learn about the San history and way of life.

North East Main Towns: The main towns in Namibia’s north-east are Grootfontein, Tsumeb, Otavi, and Tsumkwe in Bushmanland, while Okakarara is the main town in the communal land of the Herero people. Recommended stay: Four to five days

The Historic Living Museum at Grashoek village offers visitors the opportunity to meet traditionally dressed Ju/’Hoansi-San people and learn about their culture through demonstrations of what it takes to survive in the wild armed with only a bow and arrow, a digging stick and an intimate knowledge of the environment passed down for generations. Rough ‘bush camping’ is an option here. The museum can be found on the C44 just before the village of Grashoek.

On the farm Ghaub, 22 miles northeast of Otavi, a historical mission station built in 1895 was converted into the Guest Farm Ghaub. This area is home to the Ghaub Caves, which have been declared a national monument, remarkable for their stalactites and Bushman paintings, A historic fort from the German era, built in 1896, houses the Grootfontein Museum with its extensive mineralogical collection, Himba display, implements for making ox wagons, utensils used in the Kavango Region and an exhibition featuring the German colonial Schutztruppe. The Tsumeb Museum in the town’s main street houses large displays on the history of copper mining in the Tsumeb region, featuring mineral specimens, artefacts, and traditional costumes and photographs of the heyday of the industry. Included is a large display of items raised from the Otjikoto Lake, including World War 1 cannons and ammunition and cultural and ethnological artifacts.

The villagers of //Xa/oba between Tsumkwe and the Khaudum National Park opened their own Living Museum in 2010. Along with learning about the ancient culture of the Ju/’Hoansi, native to the Kalahari Desert for thousands of years, visitors can experience a real hunt with hunters from the Living Museum. Here the traditional bow hunt with poisoned arrows, digging out springhares and porcupines and catching guinea fowls, korhaans and other birds in snares for food continues today. But hunting isn’t a tourist attraction per se, the San living in this area are the only Bushmen still legally allowed to hunt traditionally. The Living Museum is open every day throughout the year from just after sunrise until sunset. Basic camping facilities are located close to the Living Museum at the Elephant Song Campsite, as yet with no water, toilet or shower facilities. Water can be obtained from the solar water pump at the village nearby. The museum is situated 14 miles from Tsumkwe on the D3315.

Lake Otjikoto is located close to the mining town of Tsumeb. Part of an underground river system, the lake was exposed when the roof of what was a large dolomite cave fell in. The lake is small with a diameter of about 102m, but very deep, estimated to be in excess of 142m in places. The lake contains various pieces of artillery from WWI. Stories are told of a large safe, the edges and keyhole sealed with molten lead and containing 6 million goldmarks, being lowered into Lake Otjikoto. The safe has never been seen again.

West of Tsumkwe, the small town of Grootfontein serves the surrounding cattle-ranching community and is the last centre on the road to Rundu and the far northeast. Its history and character are personified in its coat of arms by depictions of the Hoba Meteorite, a palm tree, kudu, eland and cheetah. The Herero name of the town – Otjiwanda Tjongue – means leopard’s crest, and these animals can still be seen in this area. Due to the relatively high rainfall and large number of springs in the area, the San and Damara who lived here in the first half of the 19th century called the place Gei-/ous, which translates as Grootfontein (Afrikaans for large spring).

Otjikoto is derived from the Otjiherero language and means deep hole. The San called it "Gaisis" which means very ugly because they were afraid of the deep water. When Galton and Anderson first stumbled on Otjikoto they went for a swim. The local Herero and Owambo people were much surprised because local belief was that nobody could survive the mysterious waters. Lake Guinas, is southwest of Otjikoto, a 31miles round trip from the main road. The detour is well worth the effort, as Guinas is not only deeper, but more scenic than its more famous counterpart.

The Khorab Memorial – about 2 miles from Otavi and dating back to the First World War – marks the spot where a ceasefire was signed at Khorab on 9 July 1915.

Caprivi Main Town: The main town in the Caprivi region is Katima Mulilo. Recommended stay: Five to seven days. Getting there: There is a commercial airport at Katima Mulilo. The Trans-Caprivi Highway is a paved road (B8) from one end of the Caprivi to the border with Zambia (Shesheke bridge) and to the border with Botswana (Ngoma bridge). The area is best explored by vehicle, particularly 4x4 vehicles are recommended to access the wilderness areas and National Parks. Accommodations: Lodges, safari camps etc. Fun Fact: The Caprivi artists have been more receptive to the western notion of producing art for art’s sake. While traditional pottery is produced in Owambo and Kavango, the art of the potter in Caprivi has evolved over time. Beautiful pots with spherical bodies and slender necks are created, often with intriguing patterns and interesting firing techniques, making them much sought after by collectors.

buffalo with close to 1 000 animals). Get out your binoculars and get set to see birds. Over 400 bird species have been recorded here with the greatest concentration seen in the Mahango core area. Experience dramatically close encounters of the elephant kind, and meet the very hospitable local people. They run the camps, protect the wildlife and craft some of the most stunning basketry and woodcarvings in Namibia.

Main Attractions: The Caprivi region with its lush tropical vegetation and abundance of game and birds is home to three of Namibia’s national parks, the Bwabwata National Park, Mamili National Park, and Mudumu National Park, as well as the Popa Game Park.

Mamili (Nkasa Lupala) National Park: Wild – that’s the one word that best describes Mamili (Nkasa Lupala) National Park. There is nothing prissy about it, it doesn’t have fancy campsites and offers no guided tours. But it is an extraordinary piece of wilderness, waiting to be explored. Lush marshes, dense savannah and high river reeds mean that travelling through the area is a dream for 4x4 enthusiasts. During the dry winter months, large herds of elephant congregate on Nkasa and Lupala islands. But for much of the year, Mamili (Nkasa Lupala) is awash with floodwater. Drive slowly through deep pools and avoid rivers where crocodiles lie in wait. Slip through thick black mud, so soft it is called cotton, and dice with the odds of getting stuck! If you have to wait while someone else digs the vehicle out, listen carefully. Nearby buffalo may be crossing the river or you might hear the sound of one of more than 430 different species of birds calling. For anyone who relishes the adventures of raw, real Africa, Mamili (Nkasa Lupala) National Park is the place to be.

Bwabwata National Park : Pitch a tent in one of the neat, well-organized community campsites in and around the Bwabwata National Park and watch the hippo-haunted rivers gently flow by, knowing that you are in an area where local people and wildlife are both benefiting from sharing in the future of this spectacular area. A lush contrast to the rest of the country, the Caprivi panhandles, rivers, flood plains, wetlands and forests are part of a five-nation conservation area that is home to the largest population of elephants in the world. Almost everything you could expect to see in the famed Okavango Delta you can see here. Soak your feet in the spray at Popa Falls, Namibia’s gem on the Kavango River. Take unaccompanied or guided game drives across dramatic flood plains, through mature Kalahari woodland and along the shores of the temporary pans (omurambas). Fill your Big Five tick list by visiting the Buffalo core conservation area (this is the best place in Namibia to see

Mudumu National Park: Drive through thick mopane forest and over wide floodplains past swamps of papyrus and temporary lakes besieged by waterfowl. Be dwarfed by immense leadwood trees. Above all, experience one of Namibia’s most rare and treasured sights – lots of running water! Rising in the central Angolan highlands, the Kwando River flows along the border of Mudumu before disappearing into the Okavango. The river is the lifeblood of this fertile region. Encounter the water-loving creatures of Mudumu; the elephants and hippos, the spotted-necked otters and crocodiles, and the rare red lechwe and sitatunga antelope. Watch for the swirl of a fanged tiger fish or the ripples of turtles and water snakes. Don’t miss the sight of the local fishermen deftly poling their mokoros (dug-out canoes) and casting their nets for tilapia in the light of a setting sun to the sound of drums and singing from nearby villages. Complete the day by camping under 32

riverine forest and listen to nature’s orchestra; the slosh of life-giving water, the croaking of frogs, the cries of owls and the throaty chuckles of Mudumu’s hippos.

Crafts: Women in Caprivi using papyrus make Musemes, the Lozi name for reed-floor mats. Each reed is halved lengthwise and dried in the sun to allow the inner pith to shrink, thus making the reed curl inwards, which makes it more durable. The reeds are then sewn together tightly, using string made from the locally grown mafuu (mother-in-law’s tongue) and narakuku plants. Traditionally the Caprivians used these mats to create temporary shelters when they moved to other areas for part of the year to gather food supplies. Up to three or four people would share a mat to sleep on.

The Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) is also found in the Caprivi region. Spanning over 172,000sq mile KaZa is the world's biggest conservation area. Museums: The Living Museum of the Mafwe is an authentic open-air museum where guests can learn about the traditional culture and original lifestyle of the Mafwe, demonstrated and described with great dedication, with English translations. Most of the programmes are interactive, with the Mafwe enjoying it when the visitors try to weave a traditional net and taste traditional foods. Visitors can spend the night close to the museum in a basic bush camp (soon to be turned into an official campsite) or stay in one of the surrounding accommodation establishments. The museum is independently managed by the Mafwe of Singalamwe and is situated on a beautiful hill with a view on the Kwando River.

The Caprivi is home to many fine potters as it's an area with a lot of clay soils and wood for the ovens. Because the region lies between Botswana, Angola and Zambia, the Caprivian craft-makers are influenced by an active crafts industry in neighboring countries. The community-based Caprivi Art Centre in Katima Mulilo is a marketing outlet for artists and craftspeople throughout the region. The Ngoma Crafts Centre situated on the border with Botswana also sells local crafts. History: Known as Itenga, Caprivi was ruled by the Lozi kings until it became part of the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, today’s Botswana. In 1890, at the Berlin Conference, Germany acquired the territory, named it after the German Chancellor General Count Georg Leo von Caprivi, and added it to German South West Africa. The capital of Caprivi was at Schuckmansburg until about 1933, when it was moved to Katima Mulilo, a name that means ‘put out the fire’. Katima Mulilo has since become a busy tourist centre and gateway to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and the Chobe National Park in Botswana.

In Katima Mulilo the small Sangwali Museum tells the interesting story of the journey of early missionaries in the region and the pre-colonial Kololo invasion. Festivals: The Mashi Crafts Festival takes place in August each year. It provides an opportunity for craftmakers, primarily women, from all over Caprivi to adorn their brightest and finest chetenges and show off their artistry. They compete for prizes and present traditional dances and plays to colleagues and guests.

Adventures Activities: The Caprivi is a birding hotspot and is thus favored by birding enthusiasts. The area is also exciting for 4x4 drivers. Freshwater angling is popular on the Zambezi River. White-river rafting is at its most exciting on the turbulent waters of the Zambezi, while classic hunting safaris are offered in some areas.

This festival reinforces the tradition of basket-making in Kavango and Caprivi. Women still use baskets for harvesting in the mahangu fields. The revival of traditional skills and the acquisition of new skills in marketing and sales has enabled women to create a vibrant and successful craft industry.

River cruises on pontoons, photo safaris, swamp safaris, horseback trails, boating, a trip in a mokoro (dug-out canoe) and game viewing,

either on foot or in open 4x4 vehicles are all available. Some towns and lodges offer golfing facilities. For the more intrepid, there are crocodile spotting expeditions by night. Community Development: the Caprivi Region has several communities actively involved in enterprise development. Such developments are linked to the CBNRM (Community Based Natural Resource Management) and the conservancy program in the area.

forms a natural border between Namibia and Angola for more than 400km and is the lifeline to the Kavango people. The people make a living from fishing, tending cattle and cultivating sorghum, millet and maize. Adventure Activities: The Okavango River offers a localized form of canoeing and several lodges along the banks offer canoeists trips of varying lengths. The annual Oewona Namibia River Challenge takes place on the Okavango. The event raises money for the Organization of the Empowerment of Widows/Widowers and Orphans of HIV/Aids in Namibia (Oewona).

Kavango Main Town: The main town in Kavango is Rundu. Suggested stay: Three to four days. Getting there: There is a commercial airport at Rundu and driving is an easy option, as the B8 is paved and in good condition. To explore this area, it is best by to travel by 4x4. Accommodation is offered in lodges, safari camps and camping sites, amongst others. Main Attractions: Situated some 40 miles south-west of Rundu in the Kavango Region, the Mangetti National Park extends over about 162 sq miles and is managed jointly by the Ukwangali Traditional Authority and the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Animals seen here include eland, blue wildebeest, wild dog, leopard and hyena. Additional game including common impala, gemsbok, kudu, giraffe and Burchell's zebra were recently translocated to Mangetti from Etosha National Park and the private sector as part of the Enhancing Wildlife-based Economy in Rural Areas Project Park. Museums: Thirty kilometers east of Rundu is the Sambyu Museum, an art and crafts facility containing woodcarvings and traditional crafts from the Kavango Region and southern Angola, and stone tools found locally. Culture: Rundu is the home of Namibiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well-known Kavango woodcarvers. Their ancient craft, handed down over generations, is a flourishing industry today. Wooden carvings are made and offered for sale at the Mbungura Woodcraft Co-operative, which has its main workshop and office in the town. History: The Okavango River and its broad flood plains, makes the Kavango Region considerably greener than the rest of Namibia. The river

Fishing, game viewing and bird watching are the most popular activities. Sunset river cruises, photo safaris, boating, and game viewing, either on foot or in open 4x4 vehicles, are activities sought after by holiday makers in this region.. Entertainment: Pubs and bars at some accommodation facilities provide great sundowner spots, while pub crawling at local shebeens (bars) in Rundu makes for an interesting local adventure.

Linking Namibia with other Countries Your clients may want to visit more than one country on their trip to Southern Africa. It is very popular to pair Namibia with Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe or Zambia. The following page gives you a quick overview of the best way to connect our country with its neighbors.

By Plane

Botswana

South Africa

By Car

Fly from Windhoek Hosea Kutako Link a self-drive safari through airport on Air Namibia, on a regular Namibia with a visit to the scheduled flight to Maun, for a safari Kalaghadi Transfrontier Park in in the Okavango delta. South Africa and Botswana with * Fly from Windhoek to Katima the eastern part of Namibia, the Mulilo (Mapacha airport), for a safari Kalahari. in Chobe National park and on to the Okavango delta. •

Fly from Windhoek to Cape Town or Johannesburg on Air Namibia, Comair, South African Airways on frequent daily scheduled flights

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Link a self-drive safari to southern Namibia with a visit to the Richtersveld in South Africa Link a self-drive safari through Namibia with a visit to the Kalaghadi Transfrontier Park in South Africa and Botswana with the eastern part of Namibia, the Kalahari.

Zimbabwe

Fly from Windhoek Hosea Kutako airport to Vic Falls.

Zambia

Fly from Windhoek Hosea Kutako Include Livingstone/Vic Falls in a airport to Vic Falls, in Zimbabwe and self-drive safari which includes a transfer to Livingstone. visit to Caprivi and fly back to Fly to Lusaka on a scheduled flight Windhoek on a scheduled Air on Air Namibia from Windhoek. Namibia flight from Vic Falls, or a scheduled flight to Johannesburg in South Africa from Livingstone.

Include Vic Falls in a self-drive safari which includes a visit to Caprivi and fly back to Windhoek on a scheduled Air Namibia flight, or a scheduled flight to Johannesburg in South Africa.

NAMIBIA TIPS Currency: The Namibia Dollar (N$) The Namibia Dollar and South African Rand are the only legal tender in Namibia and can be used freely to purchase goods and services. Time Zones: Summer time: GMT + 2 hours from the 1st Sunday in September to the 1st Sunday in April. Winter time: GMT + 1 hour from the 1st Sunday in April to the 1st Sunday in September.

Tips for transportation around Namibia There are several ways to get around Namibia: • Scheduled tours in luxury coaches, microbuses or 4x4 vehicles • Train • Charter airplanes (“Fly-in Safaris”) • Air Namibia, Namibia’s national carrier • Your own rental car (“Self-drive Safaris”) in sedans or 4x4 vehicles that will take you off the beaten track (ideal for camping) • Specialized tailor-made tours where the mode of transportation can be a combination of planes and cars

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Taxis • Windhoek and other major cities offer private, 24-hour taxi service • A scheduled bus service and private operators transport passengers in registered taxis to and from Hosea Kutako International Airport and the capital city, Windhoek. • Private mini-bus services run between major centers within Namibia, while a large bus service connects Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Windhoek with Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, Upington, and other towns and cities in South Africa. This bus service also travels to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Livingstone, Zambia. Visit www.intercape.co.za for more information.

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Tips for exploring lesser known regions of Namibia The best-known tourist attractions in Namibia include the dunes at Sossusvlei, the Etosha National Park, the Fish River Canyon and Swakopmund. These can be reached by scheduled tours, fly-in safaris or self-drive tours.

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Also see tips on Safe Driving

Many of the lesser-known regions and their attractions are situated in rural areas, where people still live according to age-old traditions and where destinations are mainly connected by gravel road. With proper planning, these can also be reached by scheduled tours, fly-in safaris or self-drive tours. When exploring these regions, please keep in mind: •

defined tracks and roads. Deviating off existing tracks not only spoils the scenery and enjoyment of others, but also destroys plants and small creatures. In certain areas, such as the gravel plains, a single set of tracks can remain visible for decades. Respect the culture and traditions of those inhabiting the area through which you are travelling. Remember you are the guest, and with due respect, Namibians will make you feel that way! Bear in mind that in the event of an unexpected breakdown, assistance could be days away. A minimum of two vehicles travelling together is, therefore, strongly recommended. Vehicles must be equipped with at least two spare wheels, basic spares and tools for emergency repairs, jumper cables and recovery equipment such as towing ropes, plus several gallons of extra water for their inhabitants! Engage four-wheel drive and manually lock front hubs (if required) before negotiating difficult terrain such as loose sand, rocky areas or steep inclines or declines. Inspect the terrain for obstacles and plan your route accordingly. In sandy terrain, deflate the tire pressure to about 1 Kpa (front) and 1.2 Kpa (rear). If your vehicle becomes stuck, remember that brute force will not get you out of trouble. If anything, you’ll become bogged down even more. Stop immediately and observe the situation. Check whether the vehicle is engaged in four-wheel drive and the front hubs are locked, and clear the sand in front and behind the wheels before attempting to drive away. Other options are to deflate the tires a little more or jack the vehicle up to place stones or dead branches under the wheels for more traction before pulling away.

Tips for engaging with people of different cultures • Respect the customs and traditions of your hosts; for example, when visiting a village, please dress appropriately. No bikini tops, mini shorts or sleeveless vests. • Support local products by spending your money within the local economy, while at the same time experiencing the uniqueness of local res-

The Namibian landscape is extremely fragile, so follow only well37

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taurants, lodges and craft shops. Bargain fairly; make sure that after the final transaction, both you and the seller are satisfied. Refrain from throwing sweets or money from the car or giving random gifts to children. If you’d like to support a local community, there are many dedicated community-based organizations operating throughout Namibia that would welcome your contributions. Try to learn a new local word every day, be open to friendships and keep in mind you are traveling in a culture different from your own! It can be frustrating, but ultimately it will be rewarding. Namibians are very relaxed people, so please be patient and enjoy this relaxed pace of life.

Tips for Photography Namibia is a photographer’s paradise. You may have clients who want to spend their entire trip taking pictures or some who wish to do so casually. Regardless, its useful to know where you can photograph what.

When photographing local people you’ll want to be respectful of their culture and space. Remember not to photograph anyone without their consent. Below we have shared award-winning Namibian photographer Amy Schoeman tips on lenses, and when to unpack your camera equipment:

*Tip: Recommend that guests Plan on taking photos in the early mornings and late afternoons when the light is best.

*A good zoom is the key for photographing wildlife, because then you’re prepared for all possibilities. * Fixed lenses are ultimately better in terms of sharpness, so if you’re aiming to win competitions or blow your pictures up into massive prints, go for a long fixed telephoto lens, as long as you can carry. Fixed lenses also work best when photographing birds. *As these lenses can be heavy, you will need to bring a tripod, or at least a beanbag, especially handy when travelling by car. *For landscapes, the best is a short telephoto lens (110 or 135 for 35mm/ 150 for medium format), and *wide angle for certain shots. Take note that the wide angle has limitations when it comes to landscapes. It’s better suited for trees and buildings and the elements like these that are the focus of an image. *If you’re into close-ups, bring a good micro/macro lens rather than closeup filters. Extension tubes, although tedious, also do the job.

If your clients ask where the best places for capturing stunning images are, you can suggest the following: Landscapes: Namibia is a country of endless horizons. The following areas define the country’s stunning contrasts: -

The Etosha National Park, including floodlit waterholes at the park’s three main camps Damaraland for its desert adapted species, including elephants, lions and black rhinos The Namib Desert for endemic species of small animals and reptiles The coast for birds, dolphins, seals and scavengers who patrol the coastline The extreme north-east for an abundance of species, including 450 species of birds The north-east for vast populations of elephants and rare antelope such as roan and sable The south for its spectacular wild horses

The dune sea of the Namib Desert Open savannahs of the south Ancient rock art of the central and northern regions The mountains of the north-west The forests of the north-east Riverine environments of the extreme north-east

Close-up photography can be very rewarding in Namibia as there are many interesting insects and small reptiles, amazing textures, plants with

Wildlife 38

intriguing flowers, seeds and leaves, lichen and so on. Even sand grains look great through a macro lens. *The best time of day to shoot is early morning or late afternoon. Of these two I have always felt, depending on subject and angle, that late afternoon has the edge. This is when the colours become really deep, the atmosphere has a glow (early morning light can be bleak) and if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re into sunsets, this is the time to shoot, as thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of dust hanging around for strong reds and oranges and silhouettes become spectacular. However, this does not mean that you must never take photographs in the middle of the day. If the scene looks good to you, take the picture, because what you see is what you get. Which, incidentally, means you can take pictures of mirages although they are optical illusions. They are at their most striking in the middle of the day.

WHAT MAKES NAMIBIA SPECIAL Endless horizons, clear skies and a population density that ranks among the lowest in the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it all combines to give visitors a true sense of freedom. This is part of what makes Namibia the quintessential African vacation. Whether your interest is in wildlife, landscape, adventure, people, culture â&#x20AC;&#x201C; your days here will be filled with plenty of sunshine, beautiful sights and unforgettable experiences found nowhere else on earth. Only in Namibia.

What Makes Namibia Special?

In the south, stretching from the Ai// Richtersveld Transfrontier Park to the Sperrgebiet is one of the world’s top 25 biodiversity hotspots with the highest species-rich desert ecological system in the world (over 1 600 different plant species). Between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, there are up to 770 birds per kilometre of beach, including 98% of the world’s population of Damara Terns.

Safety – Namibia is Safe! Namibia is a vast country to explore and even if you feel alone, you aren’t far away from being connected. The cell phone network covers 90 % of the country, and a good road system links you from city to city, village to village. With its friendly and sparse population, you won’t encounter arbitrary road blocks in Namibia where people ask for hand-outs or bribes, but you will find help where you need it, including a fly in medical evacuation service, if your insurance provides coverage and if not, you can buy this extra piece of mind when you arrive in Namibia.

With 42% of the country under conservation management, even our ancient rock art, like that found at Twyfelfontein, a world heritage site, speaks to the country’s tight relationships between biodiversity and humans.

Undiscovered – Namibia is Undiscovered! While Namibia’s Sossusvlei and the Etosha National Park are well-worth exploring, there is much more to Namibia than athese iconic destinations. Namibia is vast and largely undiscovered by tourists. Take the road less travelled to all points, north, east, south and west and encounter indigenous people and their fascinating cultures, wildlife that roams free outside of national parks on across communal and commercial land, and landscapes that will take your breath away.   Liberating – Namibia is liberating! In Namibia there are fewer than 6 people per square mile, however, since most of the population is centered on Windhoek and a few cities in the north, this statistic is misleading. There are places in Namibia were there are no people per square mile, mile after mile after mile. This space and the silence it brings allow you to still the voice in your head and listen to your heart. In Namibia, peace and exhilaration are just a moment away.

Wildlife Where in the world will you find a country where there are more wild animals outside than inside national parks? Namibia, of course. This range of spectacular wildlife isn’t limited to stunning, yet docile antelope, it includes large animals, like lions, elephants, black rhinos and the world’s largest population of cheetah. In fact, Namibia is home to 576 bird species and 258 mammals. Conservancies Part of Namibia’s wildlife story is conservancies. Understanding conservancies in Namibia will come in handy as a tourism professional as many tourists ask specifically about this innovative and important initiative. After independence in 1990, visionary conservationists within the Ministry of Environment & Tourism and in the field worked together to implement policy changes that enabled rural communities to benefit from wildlife by forming conservancies.

Our Key Assets We have four key assets that our target markets are most interested in. They are:

Once the legislation was passed in 1996, the conservancy movement spread rapidly across the country. The first four conservancies were registered in 1998. Today, there are over 60 conservancies, covering well over 17 % of the country and embracing one in four rural Namibians.

Nature From lush rivers to the oldest desert on earth and five wetlands of international importance, Namibia is rich in biodiversity, with many endemic species (locally adapted species that occur nowhere else in the world) and fragile landscapes. An estimated 185 000 species of plants, animals and other living organisms are found in Namibia.

Conservancies use a mix of traditional knowledge and skills and modern approaches and technologies to manage their resources. Each conservancy

employs a number of game guards to monitor resources, mitigate human wildlife conflict and control poaching. Wildlife is monitored using an innovative, home-grown Event Book system, as well as through annual game counts.

In 2010, Namibia’s Communal Conservancy Tourism sector was selected as a finalist in the Tourism For Tomorrow Awards, organized by the World Travel and Tourism Council. Source: Keith Sproule – WWF in Namibia

The annual North West Game Count is the largest road-based game count in the world. Around 300 people take part, covering over 17 million acres and 4,350 miles of road transects to simultaneously count game in 30 adjacent conservancies and tourism concessions.

Culture Namibia has a rich ethnic diversity and cultural heritage. Inhabitants vary from hunter-gatherers, herders and farmers in the rural regions to semiskilled, skilled and highly skilled people, including traders, industrialists, civil servants and individuals providing professional services, in urban areas. Notable examples of Namibia’s diverse cultural groups are Herero women in their distinctive Victorian-style dresses; the Nama and Damara who speak with intriguing click sounds; Himba women with their intricate hairstyles and ornamental copper necklaces and anklets; and the San (Bushmen), the last representatives of the hunter-gatherer tradition. And it is possible to meet rural and urbanised Namibians because they are friendly, open and welcoming. Local tour operators have taken care to develop itineraries which includes visits to communities in rural areas where villagers are happy share their every day lives with visitors.

Namibia is the only country in the world that is moving rare and endangered species such as black rhino from national parks to conservancies. Because local people have a voice in the management of wildlife and benefit from its presence, the population of black rhino, elephant and lions is also growing in conservancies. Community-based natural resource management is enabling the growth of a new rural economy. People are engaging in a great variety of new economic activities, many of which are breathing new life into traditional skills that were in danger of being lost. Traditional craft production is important in many areas. The export of indigenous plant products, based on age old traditional knowledge, is another dynamic new sector.

There are many aspects of Namibian culture. Below we highlight people, crafts, food and festivals to give you a brief overview of some of the cultural elements that will help sell Namibia as a tourism destination.

Today there are well over 30 joint-venture lodges operating in communal conservancies across Namibia. The benefits they generate allow conservancies to cover their own running costs, invest in community development projects and provide individual household benefits. In essence, the conservancy movement is both a conservation and rural development programme.

People of Namibia You may have seen memorable images of Namibian people, Herero women in distinctive Victorian-style dresses; the Nama and Damara who speak with intriguing click sounds; Himba women with their intricate hairstyles and ornamental copper necklaces and anklets; and the San (Bushmen), one of the world’s last representatives of the hunter-gatherer tradition. Namibia has a rich ethnic diversity and cultural heritage. In fact, there are 2.5 million Namibians and they vary from hunter-gatherers, herders and farmers to a cosmopolitan, urban population.

The programme has delivered great conservation results, but it has also provided important employment, significant income and a great range of other benefits to rural people in remote areas who in the past had few livelihood options. In 2009, community-based natural resource management generated six million dollars for local communities – which excludes the income generated for the private sector. The overall contribution to the net national income was worth 33.5 million dollars.

The cultures of Namibia’s diverse population groups are fast becoming an important drawing card for tourists. Visitors are taken on guided tours, often by trained local guides, to visit traditional homesteads, learn about different lifestyles and buy crafts where they are produced.

For the most part, Coloreds maintain a western culture and way of life. They speak Afrikaans as a home language, although their accent differs. Damara The origins of the Damara people are an enigma to anthropologists. One of the several puzzling aspects is that while they differ physically from the Nama and Hai | | Om people, they also speak the Khoekhoegowab language.

Caprivians Just under 80,000 people live in East Caprivi, which borders Angola, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. The largest Caprivian tribal groups are the Masubia and Mafwe. Other tribes are Mayeyi, Matotela, Mashi and Mbukushu.

Traditionally, the Damara community consists of a number of subdivisions, called haoti. These are clusters of clans and extended families that were formerly concentrated in specific areas, consisting of about eleven sub-groups.

Within communal areas there are different levels of traditional authority. In Eastern Caprivi each village has a headman, generally the most senior male member. He advises the senior headman, who represents several villages.

Before the arrival of the white settlers, the Damaras’ way of life was similar to that of the nomadic San – they lived from hunting and veldkos. The Damara were outsted from their traditional areas by advancing Nama and Herero. In German colonial times they settled in the Okombahe environs. In 1973, an area approximately 4.7 million hectares was proclaimed as “Damaraland,” with Khorixas as its administrative capital. Following independence, this area becomes Erongo Region.

In Caprivian society the family is the most important socioeconomic unit. Families usually live in villages. Most Caprivians are subsistence farmers who make their living on the banks of the Zambezi, Kwando, Linyanti and Chobe rivers. In addition to fishing and hunting, a significant but not exclusive element of the local economy, they keep cattle and cultivate the land. When the Zambezi and the Chobe rivers come down in flood, more than half of Caprivi east of the Kwando may be under water. During this period, Caprivians use their mikolo (dug out canoes) to traverse the routes normally used by trucks and pedestrians.

Herero The Herero are a pastoral cattle-breeding people who migrated to Namibia several centuries ago. The colonial wars and Herero-German War of 1904-1907 resulted in a drastic decrease of the Herero population. Under General Lothar von Trotha, and his infamous Vernichtungsbefehl (proclamation of extermination), a large number of Herero were wiped out. Left without land and cattle, the survivors practically disintegrated as a group. A large number fled to Bechuanaland (Bostwana). When South Africa took over administration of the territory in 1915, the refugees began to return and were gradually allocated home areas such as Aminuis, Epukiro, Waterberg East, Otjohorongo and Ovitoto.

Coloureds Today people of mixed descent are an integral part of most populations throughout Africa, but because of the nature of their descent, they are sometimes not integrated into any of the other cultural groups. This is also the case in Namibia. One of the differences between Coloureds and Rehoboth Basters is the fact that the Basters identify with the Rehoboth Gebiet whereas the Coloureds have never inhabited a specific part of the country, and were not allocated a “homeland,” as was the case with other non-white population groups during South African administration of the territory.

Despite the suppression of their traditional culture, confiscation of tribal lands and the restrictions of labour laws, the remaining Herero people managed to keep their bonds of family life, tribal solidarity and national con-

There are 50,000 Coloureds in Namibia.Its members are mixed race descendants of Caucasian, Malayan and indigenous Khoe and San people. 43

sciouness alive, as is demonstrated by the annual Herero Festival on Maharero Day in August.

portant local industry is woodcarving. Bowls, masks, ornaments, furniture and other functional items are produced.

In the 19th Century, under the influence of the wives of the missionaries, Herero women developed the voluminous Victorian style dresses that the more traditional of them wear today. The distinctive headdress with two points symbolizes cattle horns.

Nama The only true descendants of the Kohekhoe in Namibia are the Nama, whose ancestors originally lived north and south of the Orange River. As pastoral nomads, the Nama traditionally had little need to build permanent structures. Their bee-hive shaped rush mat houses were ideally suited to their lifestyle. The concept of communal land ownership still prevails with all tribes except for the =|Aonin or Topnaars, whose !nara fields are the property of individual lineages. Today most Nama live in permanent settlements. They have adopted western lifestyles and the Christian religion and work in the formal economy.

Himba The Himba, Tjimba and other Herero people who inhabit Namibiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remote north-western Kunene region are loosely referred to as Kaokovelders. Herero in terms of origin, language and culture, Kaokovelders are semipastoralists who tend to trek from one watering place to another. The Himba are the largest group of Kaokovelders. They are tall, slender and statuesque. Women are noted for their sculptural beauty, enhanced by intricate hair styles and traditional adornments. They rub their bodies with red ochre and fat, a treatment that protects their skins against the harsh desert climate.

The Nama have much in common with the San. They are comparatively light in color and generally short in stature. They speak with distinctive clicks. Nama people have a natural talent for music, poetry and prose. An example of a traditional dance is the well known Nama stap. Nama women are highly skilled with needlework. The content of the work is often expressive and humorous.

The homes of the Himba are simple, cone-shaped structures of saplings, bound together with palm leaves and plastered with mud and dung. A fire burns in the headmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hut day and night to keep insects away and to provide light and heat.

Topnaars Topnaars are a hardy group of Khoesan people who have lived on the banks of the Kuiseb River for many years. Topnaars tend sheep and goats. They have many unique traditions and customs linked to their existence in the Namib. They speak the Nama language, with its gutteral clicks and high musical pitch.

Kavango Forming the border between Namibia and Angola for more than 400km is the Okavango River, lifeline of the Kavango people, who make a living from fishing, cattle farming and cultivating sorghum, millet and maize on the wide fertile plains on either side. Today the Kavango consists of five individual tribes, namely the Kwangali, Mbunza, Shambuyu, Gciriku and Mbukushu, each inhabiting an area of its own along the Southern bank.

Central to the Topnaars culinary tradition is the !nara melon, a large nutritious fruit that is endemic to the Namib and is said to have medicinal properties. The annual harvesting of the melons in the dunes South of Walvis Bay and the traditional methods of preparing them have survived and are practiced to this day.

Each tribe is ruled by a traditional chief or chieftainess, assisted by the headmen. The traditional economy in Kavango is based on a combination of horticulture (pearl millet) and animal husbandry (cattle and goats). An im44

Owambo In the pre-colonial structure of Owambo society, there was a king and headmen in each of the seven Owambo groups. Judicial powers were vested in village and regional courts, with the highest court being the Supreme Court of the King. Today, only three of the Owambo clans (Ndonga, Ngandjera and Kwaluudhi) still recognize their kings. The rest have a system of senior headmen forming a council and administering their tribes by joint action. An important function of these officials is the regulation of the system of land ownership.

San The earliest known inhabitants of Namibia are the San (Bushmen) who belong to the Khoesan peoples. Their language is characterized by numerous clicking sounds. These hunter gatherers roamed the vast plains of Southern Africa for thousands of years before migrants armed with weapons and searching for new lands on which to graze their animals and plant their grain drove them further into the Kalahari desert. Most San people now live or work on farms in eastern Namibia or live in remote communal areas in Otjozondjupa and Omusati. There are approx. 35,000 San people in Namibia.

Owambo houses are traditionally the rondavel type, mostly surrounded by palisades and often connected by passages. Cattle kraals usually form part of the complex, which is surrounded by cultivated lands. The Owambo practise a mixed economy of agriculture and animal husbandry

The wealth of rock paintings and engravings found in mountains and hills throughout Namibia bear witness to the Bushmen’s former habitation in many parts of the country.

The Owambo people have always played an active role in politics. Namibia’s ruling party, SWAPO (South West African People’s Organization), started as a non-violent pressure group referred to as the Owambo People’s Organization.

Renown as great storytellers, the San express themselves eloquently in prose, music, mimicry and dance. Their simplest instrument is the hunters’ bow, strung with animal hair and equipped with a hollowed out melon or empty tin can as a sound box.

Rehoboth Basters The history of the Rehoboth Basters goes back to the settlement of the first Dutch colonists under Jan Van Riebeeck, who landed at the Cape of Good Hope in 1652. European settlers came into contact with the indigenous Khoesan people. The children born of this association whose mixed blood origins were obvious were called “coloureds,” or “bastards,” giving rise to two culturally separate groups of people in Namibia.

While a small number of San still practise their traditional nomadic lifestyle, the majority lead a settled existence in villages. Tswana Numbering approximately 8000, the Tswana are the smallest cultural group in Namibia. They are related to the Batswana of Botswana and the northern Cape Province.

In 1886, a group of some 90 Baster families moved to Namibia from the Cape. They first settled at Warmbad, then continued northwards, settling at a place 30km north of Berseba. In 1870 they were finally allowed to settle at the hot water springs called Reheboth. Over time, the Rehoboth Gebiet became the fatherland of the Basters and was recognized by the South African government as early as 1915.

Namibia’s Tswana live in a triangle with a line between Epukiro and Aminuis in the east as its base and extending to Walvis Bay, its vertex in the West. Most Namibian Twanas however, live in the Gobabis District where they are involved in farming. Whites Approximately 100 000 Namibians of European descent currently live in Namibia, of whom about two thirds speak Afrikaans, one quarter German and the rest, mostly English and to a much lesser extent, Portuguese. Most

Today, the Baster community consists of approximately 55,000 people.

of them live in the urban, central and southern parts of the country and most are involved in commerce, manufacturing, farming, professional services and to a diminishing extent, the civil service.

If there is any Namibian experience that is popular across all cultures and traditions, it is undoubtedly the traditional braai, an institution in households from Katima Mulilo to Lüderitz. A braai typically includes lamb and pork chops, chicken portions, beef or game steaks of different flavours and thickness – mostly marinated in an individually concocted oil-andspice-mix – and boerewors (farmer’s sausage), a savoury spicy Namibian and South African speciality.

The first European missionaries, adventurers and explorers began to settle in Namibia in the 1800s, initially in the South. They were mainly Afrikaners infiltrating gradually from South Africa and settlers of British and German descent. In 1878, Britain annexed the area surrounding Walvis Bay. In 1884, Bismarck proclaimed German South West Africa a German protectorate, excluding the Walvis Bay enclave. In 1915, the South African Forces gained control of South West Africa and in 1920, in accordance with the Treaty of Versailles, South Africa took over administration of the country.

Mahangu (pearl millet) is the staple food of countless families in the north. Oshifima is a stiff porridge, made from mahangu and served with chicken, meat or edingue, a sauce made from dried meat, and is usually accompanied by ekaka, a wild spicy spinach that grows in the mahangu fields. Oxuxwa is a dish made from fresh chicken, sometimes a bit tough, but without the meat coming off the bones as with frozen chicken bought in supermarkets. Oxuxwa is fried in the nutty tasting marula oil, also produced in Namibia.

The number of whites living in Namibia who sepak English as a home language is surprisingly small, not more than 8000 according to the latest census. They don’t necessarily all have English ancestry – many are descendants from Jews, Italians, French or Portuguese people who came to settle in the country and adopted English as their home language. Today, English is the main language of instruction in state run schools throughout the country.

A delicacy usually enjoyed on its own or as a starter is omaungu, or mopane caterpillars, named after the mopane leaves on which they feed. The caterpillars are harvested, dried and cooked in oil and spices. They are an important source of protein in diets.

Afrikaans is a prominent language, spoken by approx. 90% of Namibians. It is the first language of the Afrikaaner population as well as Rehoboth Basters and Coloureds.

Another Namibian delicacy is goat's head cooked on an open fire until it is tender and tasty and the flesh around the teeth becomes soft. The goat's head seems to be smiling, which led to its nickname ‘smiley’.

Although the period of German rule ended almost a century ago, the German influence on Namibia’s culture, economy and infrastructure remains extensive. About 25,000 white German-speaking Namibians live in the country. By and large these are families who have been in Namibia for seven or eight generations.

For centuries the San people have been harvesting nuts from manketti trees and edible tubers from nearby bushes as their main staple. Apart from eating the pulp, San tribesmen also roast manketti nuts or pound them to make an ingredient they mix with other dishes, such as game meat. Two highly sought-after forms of edible fungi found in Namibia are omajowa, the Herero name for the large fleshy mushrooms that appear at the foot of termite hills shortly after the first good rains of the season, and the elusive Kalahari truffles found in the sandy eastern regions of the country. An omajowa can weigh up to a kilogram, and can be fried in butter, made into soup or dried for later use, especially in stews. It tastes a

Food/Drink Cuisine in Namibia is interesting and varied, ranging from traditional foods, to international haute cuisine found in Windhoek, Swakopmund and even in remote lodges. 46

little like meat, possibly veal, especially when fried on an open fire. Truffles, also known by their Nama name nabba, don’t appear every year, only when the rains have been late, such as in May and June, making them a rare culinary delight.

dles, jewelry, shoes made from kudu leather, Namibian music and dried mopane worms. The idea behind the Craft Centre is to give a platform to local Namibian craft-based businesses and enterprises. It’s about strength in numbers and has become a focal point of development for these community businesses. The craft sector contributes significantly to job creation and poverty alleviation, particularly amongst rural women.

Other local specialities worth sampling are Swakopmund green asparagus (September to April), Lüderitz oysters (all year round), homemade cheese (including goat’s), and Namibian olives. Because Namibia’s cattle live entirely off savannah grasses and shrubs, Namibian beef is basically free-ranging, free from harmful residues, hormones and antibiotics, as is Namibian mutton. Venison is becoming increasingly popular; especially ostrich, springbok and gemsbok, while game birds, crocodile and seafood are also highly regarded.

Festivals/Events The annual Bank Windhoek Arts Festival (BWAF) was initiated in 2003, presenting an array of local and guest artists. In 2006 the focus was shifted to have a stronger Namibian flavour, boasting hundreds of Namibian amateur and professional productions and artworks. One of Namibia’s most knowledgeable arts experts, Professor Aldo Behrens, formerly Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and of the Department of Performing Arts at UNAM, was appointed co-ordinator of the Festival on behalf of Bank Windhoek. Professor Behrens guided the BWAF towards a true integration of the Namibian arts – from poetry, writing, composition, choir, theatre, choreography and dance through to fashion and costume design, pottery and visual arts.

Namibia is well known for its local beer, brewed by Nambrew according to the traditional purity law, the Reinheitsgebot, issued in 1516 in Bavaria, as well as the country’s first microbrewery, Camelthorn Brewing Company. Wine is also produced in Namibia at the Kristall Kellerei in the Central Namib Region.

Along with a Spring Festival during September in Windhoek and Swakopmund and a Summer Festival during December in Swakopmund, monthly festivals have become part of a Namibian Arts ritual. The BWAF also supports a number of galleries in Windhoek where exhibitions of contemporary art and design are regularly held.

Crafts In earlier times functional items for domestic use were made from local materials according to traditional designs and forms. In recent years, the production of these items in Namibia’s rural areas has become a matter of economic and cultural survival, especially in Owambo, Kavango and Caprivi, where baskets are still used by women in the mahangu fields when harvesting and winnowing their grain. Using traditional skills for a different market has enabled many women to create a vibrant and successful craft industry and establish a valuable source of income.

The Bank Windhoek Triennale, a joint product between Bank Windhoek and the National Art Gallery of Namibia, is a major art event in Namibia and biggest art competition for local artists. It took place for the second time in 2011.

Located in the historic Old Breweries Building in Tal Street in Windhoek, the Namibia Craft Centre is a haven of local creativity. Visitors are able to purchase anything from soap made from wild melon seed and marula oil, to table linen, African-style shirts, unique postcards, can47

Erongo Region, November The two-day annual Damara Festival takes places during November at Okombahe in the Daures Constituency. It is aimed at remembering deceased Damara leaders and raising awareness of Damara traditions among the younger generation by the inclusion of cultural performances.

Khomas Region, September The City of Windhoek’s creative treat for locals and visitors – the best of local arts and culture – is on offer during the annual /Ae //Gams Arts and Cultural Festival. The Festival aims to showcase Namibia's artistic and cultural diversity through its music, cuisine, traditional attire, dance and song, contemporary visual arts, crafts, theatre and poetry at various venues throughout the city. The main objective of the Festival is to make Windhoek a vibrant cultural tourist destination. The platform serves as a means of developing and promoting local talent to local people and to the international community. The festival is usually held in September.

Chief Justus //Garoëb is currently serving as King of the Damara clan. He was officially crowned in 1993, after he served as acting chief from 1976 to 1993 as part of an arrangement with the late Damara King, David Goreseb. Caprivi Region, July The annual Masubia Cultural Festival takes place in July at Bukalo, the traditional headquarters of the Masubians, about 40 km east of Katima Mulilo. The festival brings together Masubians from Namibia, Botswana and Zambia. According to Masubian tradition and culture, the ceremony is a way of drawing memories from people with Masubian ancestors as they come together to share historical memories and cultural and developmental ideas. The ceremony also serves as an opportunity in which all Masubia-speaking people present gifts to their chief as required by their culture. The current Masubia chief is His Royal Highness Munitenge Kisco Liswani III.

Hardap Region, May An annual festival that serves to strengthen the national identity of the Rehoboth Basters is the two-day commemoration of their confrontation with the German colonial troops at Sam Khubis from 7–8 May in 1915. A group of Basters had resisted joining and fighting for the German forces. Fearing for the safety of their wives and children, they left Rehoboth with their families and took refuge among the koppies at Sam Khubis, where they were ambushed by the German forces and suffered many casualties. Unexpectedly the Germans withdrew, leaving the Basters with the impression that they had retreated. Since then the Basters have commemorated their ‘victory’ on these two days every year at Sam Khubis.

As inhabitants of eastern Caprivi, the Masubian tribe is known for its special culture, referred to as Buinkuhane. A large number of Masubian people lived within the vast northeastern Zambezi plains of Namibia. They are known for their love of water, their special interest in bream from the Zambezi River, and water lilies, which form part of their diet. Buinkuhane is a diverse cultural heritage that has spread to the northwestern parts of Botswana. A small number of this tribe is also distributed along Zambia's south and southwestern provinces, where members have mixed with the Matoka and Balozi tribes.

Erongo Region, September Every year the artists’ community of Omaruru presents an Artists’ Trail. Over the first weekend of September, open studios and outdoor exhibits draw visitors to Namibia from around Southern Africa and beyond. During 2009 the Omunto Garden was opened with an exhibition of over 50 sculptures by five Namibian sculptors. The creator of Umunto, which means ‘human being’ in Oshiwambo, Hanne Alpers, keeps the garden as a peace park and permanent display area for sculptural art.

Caprivi Region, August The people in the Caprivi Region celebrate their traditional culture at the end of August with the Caprivi Regional Cultural Festival. Traditional dances, music, food, values, language, handicraft products and cus48

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toms are celebrated as tools of uniting people from different ethnic groups. In 2011 about 15 adult cultural groups and 20 from schools participated in the festival. It was stressed that cultures should be promoted and practiced in schools, as young people are crucial for keeping cultures alive elsewhere in the world.

Adventure With its wide-open spaces, sunny climate and diversity of landscapes, Namibia offers an extensive range of outdoor activities that cater for adventurers of all kinds, from confirmed adrenaline junkies to others seeking less exhilarating but equally rewarding adventures. There is abseiling a steep cliff face and shooting the rapids of the Kunene River, catching the ferocious tiger fish, and dune boarding down the Namib dunes. When hiking on the Waterberg Plateau you could come face to face with a rhino, and in Namibiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interior there are several subterranean caverns to explore. Other appealing options include paragliding, skydiving, exploring the Namib on the back of a camel or horse. Explore the back roads on bicycle, traverse the land in an aircraft or paddle out on the lagoon in a sea kayak to get up-close to the cape fur seal.

Caprivi Region, August A colourful event takes place each year in August at the Mashi Crafts market in Caprivi. The Mashi Crafts Festival provides an opportunity for craft makers, primarily women, from all over Caprivi to adorn their brightest and finest chetenges and show off their artistry. They compete for prizes and present traditional dances and plays to their colleagues and guests. It is through the making and selling of the crafts that these women have managed to revive long-lost skills, keeping cultural traditions alive whilst at the same time inspiring the younger generations to be proud of their ancestry and roots. They are the creative entrepreneurs in Caprivi. They experiment with new product designs and adjust their skills to keep up with market demands. Most importantly, they are managing their resources in a sustainable way so that future generations can continue to benefit from the natural environment that is unique to Caprivi. Kunene Region, August The Hizetjitwa Indigenous Peoples Organization (HIPO) introduced its first two-day cultural festival in August 2011. It consisted of traditional performances by the Himba, Zemba, Tjimba and Twa tribes, and was held in an open area on the outskirts of Opuwo in the Kunene Region. At the opening of the event, the governor of the region, Ambassador Joshua //HoĂŤbeb, called for the realization of a Namibian culture that will include all Namibians. About 250 of the 2 000 HIPO members from the 85 registered villages in the region took part in the festival. HIPO is an organization that works towards the improvement of indigenous people in Namibia and Angola to retain their culture and values, meet the challenges of contemporary society and improve their living conditions.

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM IN NAMIBIA Namibia is the first country in the world to incorporate environmental protection into its Constitution. From this commitment many Community Based Tourism options have sprung forth, each providing real monetary and social benefits to the local communities who provide them, and ultimately a more authentic Namibian experience to the tourists who visit.

Responsible Tourism in Namibia

Any accommodation establishment in Namibia can apply for the Desert Flower emblem awarded to establishments working successfully in accordance with sustainability principles. Candidates are assessed according to criteria such as water and wastewater management, waste management including recycling practices, energy management, approach towards the ecology, sustainable construction and landscaping practices and their staff development programmes and involvement in the development of local communities.

Communal Conservancies A fast-expanding field of environmental management is communal conservancies, which are managed by local inhabitants, provide employment and give locals the opportunity to benefit directly from their wildlife and other natural resources. There are currently 65 registered communal conservancies in Namibia, covering 17% of the land. The Namibia Association of Community-Based Natural Resource Management Support Organisations (NACSO) is an association comprising 15 Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and the University of Namibia. The purpose of NACSO is to provide quality services to rural communities seeking to manage and utilise their natural resources in a sustainable manner. The acronym for the Community Based Natural Resource Management programme is CBNRM.

The emblem of eco awards Namibia is a yellow desert flower. As in the stargrading system used for the hospitality sector, enterprises qualifying for an eco award are rewarded with between one and five desert flowers. For one flower the applicant, ranging from hotels or lodges to community-based camps, has to achieve at least 50 per cent, while five flowers are awarded when the candidate attains 90 per cent or more. The grading is effective for two years, after which the candidate can apply to be evaluated afresh.

For more information visit: www.nacso.org.na Or email: nacso@iway.na

The eco awards Namibia is the only existing certification scheme, rating sustainability of tourism establishments in Namibia. For more information visit: www.ecoawards-namibia.org Or email: info@ecoawards-namibia.org

The tourism industry has played a significant role in the success of community conservation. The first joint-venture lodge was developed before the registration of the first conservancy. It demonstrated to the people that they could generate significant benefits from wildlife conservation. Today there are well over 30 joint-venture lodges operating in communal conservancies across Namibia. The benefits they generate allow conservancies to cover their own running costs, invest in community development projects and provide individual household benefits. In essence, the conservancy movement is both a conservation and rural development programme, and their lodges are some of the best in the country.

Black Economic Empowerment Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) is a major transformation effort to bring formerly disadvantaged Namibians into the economic sector through legislation. The goal behind it is to develop a comprehensive framework for the empowerment of previously disadvantaged Namibians on the principles of social justice, economic growth and transformation. Volunteering Namibia offers a variety of volunteer programs focused on wildlife conservation, health care, the environment and teaching. Volunteers usually commit themselves for a period of one year, although shorter programs are also available.

For more information visit: www.NamibiaCommunalConservancies.com Eco-Awards Namibia The eco awards Namibia programme was launched in 2004 to promote sustainable tourism practices, where sustainable practices are defined as “…development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs and aspirations,” by the World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987.

Below are some organizations that offer volunteer opportunities (for more information on conservation specific organizations see “Conservation Initatives”):

People and Wildlife Solutions (PAWS) offer a conservation working holiday program to restore the land from an overgrazed cattle farm back into a game reserve. PAWS is part of Okonjima and Africat, and the restoration of land for wildlife is part of their shared vision. The program also offers volunteers the chance to see cheetah stalking and hunting their prey. Volunteer duties include constructing fences for cheetahs and cleaning the water troughs of the wild dogs. For more information visit: www.pawsnamibia.org

The Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) offers programs to volunteers as working guests, interns and zookeepers. Volunteers cover the costs of training, accommodation and meals. Volunteers and student interns participate in a variety of general tasks and operations of the program, in addition to a focus area. Your focus area will depend on your background, areas of interest and length of stay at CCF. The best qualification for our program is a willingness to help out wherever needed. For more information visit: www.ccf.org

The Elephant Human Relations Aid (EHRA) runs an elephant conservation and volunteer project that aims to reduce elephant-human conflict in the southern Kunene region of Namibia. Volunteers construct protection walls around water points and join the EHRA trackers on weeklong elephant patrols. For more information visit: www.desertelephant.org

Volunteers at Harnas participate in daily activities such as food preparation, feeding, caretaking, fence patrol, research on rehabilitating animals and animal walks. Harnas gives volunteers the opportunity to make a difference in the animals’ lives, ideally to live a life free of human disturbance. For more information visit: www.harnas.org

The Namib Desert Environmental Education Trust (NaDEET) is a non-profit organization that provides environmental education for Namibians. This includes not only increasing awareness and knowledge, but also increasing eco-friendly attitudes and skills. NaDEET addresses environmental issues through experimental learning and has signed an agreement with the US Peace Corps to host a two-year long volunteer through the community health program. For more information visit: www.nadeet.org

Cultural Tourism Namibia’s richness in cultural and natural heritage represents the basis for the development of cultural tourism. Cultural tourism is especially important for the local communities involved, as it allows them the opportunity to get an alternative means of income. It is thus a means of sustainable tourism for local communities. Some companies focus specifically on cultural tourism, while others offer it as a by-product to their existing portfolios.

N/a’an ku sê offers four different volunteer programs, ranging from health care and teaching to conservation. Volunteers can offer their services to provide primary health care for the San Bushman community or assist the teacher at the Clever Cubs School, which provides education to the San Bushman children. By volunteering for wildlife conservation, duties include feeding and caring for baboons, farm animals and large carnivores. N/a’an ku sê also has a new research base in southern Namibia at Solitaire, which offers volunteers the opportunity to spend 10 days tracking wild cheetahs in a 500ha boma as well as conducting game counts and camera trap analysis.

The Living Culture Foundation is a good example of cultural tourism, as it showcase different ethnic groups in their traditional environments. Guests can partake in the activities, buy crafts and curios and sleep over at the specific camps. For more information: www.lcfn.info The Okahandja Cultural Village is another example of cultural tourism. It houses homesteads of seven of Namibia’s cultural groups – the San, Tswana, Caprivian, Damara, Ovahimba/Ovahere and Owambo – with the aims of preserving and teaching the country’s cultural diversity. It is situated 10 km outside Okahandja off the Hochveld Road. Email okavillage@iway.na for more information.

For more information visit: www.naankuse.com

stamped visa pages in their passports prior to commencing travel (this does NOT include the annotation/endorsement pages at the back of the passport). Travelers merely transiting other countries (those not stopping over in the country or exiting the international terminal in regional airports) on their way to/from Namibia, may not require visa stamps in those countries and therefore may require fewer blank pages for travel. Namibian or other regional immigration officials may require as many as two separate blank visa pages for each port arrival or border crossing; travelers with insufficient blank pages risk being denied entry.

Visits to Bushmen communities in eastern Namibia, and Himba settlements in the northwestern region can be arranged by lodges in the area and tour operators. Getting Here & Around Entry Requirements For detailed information visit the US Embassy in Windhoek’s website http://windhoek.usembassy.gov/travel_to_namibia.html For Canadians, please refer to the Canadian Consulate in Windhoek http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/southafrica-afriquedusud/offices-b ureaux/contact_windhoek_contactez.aspx?lang=eng&view=d Summary: North American citizens visiting Namibia on business or leisure do not need a visa when entering Namibia for up to 90 days. Passports must be valid for up to six months after date of entry and it is recommended to have six empty pages. A valid return ticket, or proof of ticket, needs to be provided when entering the country. Keep in mind the final decision for time of entry rests in the hands of the Namibian immigration official. Passports: In order for U.S. passports to be considered valid for travel to Namibia, they must be valid for at least six months beyond the traveler’s planned date of exit from Namibia. Travelers with insufficient passport validity are strongly advised to obtain a new passport prior to travel. The U.S. Embassy cannot provide new passports on an emergency basis if U.S. citizen travelers are denied admission at the port of entry for this reason.  Visas: Bearers of U.S. passports who plan to visit Namibia for tourism or informal business meetings for less than 90 days may obtain visas at the port of entry free of charge. Travelers coming for study or work in any capacity – even if the work is unpaid or voluntary – must obtain appropriate study/work permits prior to entering Namibia. Namibian officials will not issue such permits at the port of entry. Blank Visa Pages: All travelers to or from Namibia via other countries in the region are strongly encouraged to have a minimum of six or more un53

GETTING TO NAMIBIA While getting here may take a little effort, getting around Namibia is remarkably easy for all levels of travelers. Roads are generally good, routes well marked, and Namibia is full of friendly, helpful people to guide you along the way. With proper planning and packing, the country is yours.

Getting To Namibia

Domestic Flights ) From Hosea Kutako International Airport, you can flight Air Namibia to the following domestic destinations: - Walvis Bay - Lüderitz - Oranjemund (Not shown on map, because it was only effective as from 1 October 2011) From Eros Airport in Windhoek, Air Namibia flies to: - Ondangwa - Rundu Aiprot - Mpacha Aiprot (approx. 20km southwest of Katima Mulilo)

Most visitors enter Namibia at Hosea Kutako International Airport located 45km east of Windhoek. International flights arrive multiple times throughout the week from Johannesburg and Frankfurt via a number of carriers including Air Namibia. Other airlines with scheduled flights to Namibia include British Airways, South African Airways, Luftansa and TAAG, the Angolan national airline.

Travel Times: To Windhoek from Frankfurt. Approximately 11 hours. To Windhoek from the USA via South Africa. Approximately 19 hours. To Windhoek from Johannesburg/Cape Town. Approximately 2 hours. To Windhoek from London. Approximately 12 hours. Air Namibia Air Namibia flies into Namibia from: Frankfurt to Windhoek six days a week. Cape Town and Johannesburg and vice versa seven days a week. Accra, Ghana are five days a week. If you’d like to contact Air Namibia for group bookings you can call toll free at 1.800.626.4242 or email: nyc@aviaworldna.com.

Destinations covered by national airports (from Windhoek) Eros Airport

Flying time

Katima Mulilo

2h45min

Hosea Kutako International Airport

Lüderitz

0h45min

Hosea Kutako International Airport Eros Airport

Oranjemund Ondangwa

1h55min 1h35min

Eros Airport

Rundu

1h30min

Hosea Kutako International Airport

Walvis Bay

0h35min

The following companies offers personalised fly-in safaris: Skeleton Coast Fly-in Safaris, Wings Over Africa, Desert Air, Wilderness Air (previously Sefofane Air Charters), and African Profile Safaris. Ground Transport If you want to drive in Namibia – there are many options from organized or scheduled tours, to car rentals/self-drive, buses, luxury couches, mini buses, taxis, trains and luxury trains. If you’re feeling adventurous, some car-rental services also provides motorcycle rentals – don’t forget your helmet!

Getting around by Plane Namibia is a country geared towards aviation. Not only does it have topclass flight schools and aviation engineers; almost every guest farm and lodge in the country has its own landing strip. There are more than 300 known airfields in Namibia. Private air charters within Namibia can be expanded to cross-border destinations. Experienced local pilots have an intimate knowledge of the country. 55

Car Rental Arterial paved roads like the TransCaprivi and TransKalahari highways link all four corners of Namibia. Where these paved roads end, gravel roads take over and cover the rest of the country. Prices for renting a vehicle vary depending on the type of car. However, it is recommended to get a 4 x4 for the added clearance and power benefits should you venture off the paved roads. Many major rental companies operate all throughout Namibia. The following are registered with the Car Rental Association of Namibia (CARAN), a non-profit association of 18 members that was established to protect tourists and the car-rental industry against sub-standard service: Advanced Car Hire, Africa 4x4 Rentals, African Car Hire, African Sun Car Hire, African Tracks 4x4 Car Hire, Andes Car Rental, Asco Car Hire, Autovermietung Savanna, Avis-Rent-A-Car, Budget-Rent-A-Car, Camel Car Hire, Camping Car Hire, Caprivi Car Hire, Europcar, Hertz, Odyssey Car Hire, Okavango Car Hire, Pegasus Car & Camper Hire.

tional Airport and the capital. Daily shuttle services such as Metsweding Travels, Welwitschia, Town Hoppers and Carlo’s Shuttle and Tours transport guests between Windhoek and Swakopmund, or Walvis Bay. The Desert Runner travels between Windhoek and Wolwedans in the Sossusvlei environs three times a week, while Tok Tokkie Shuttles travels between Windhoek, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Gobabis. Trains Trans-Namib Railways’s Starline Passenger Services connects most of the major towns in the west and the south, but be prepared for lengthy journeys as trains tend to stop at every station. First and second-class carriages are available with light refreshments offered on some services. The Desert Express is a world-class, luxury facility that provides overnight scenic journeys between Windhoek and Swakopmund, stopping along the way for excursions, and seven-day journeys to the Etosha National Park. Rail travel in Namibia has become so popular that several South African trains regularly visit the country. These include the luxurious Rovos Rail service, the Shongololo Express, and JB Train Tours.

Buses The Intercape Mainliner runs direct overnight services from Windhoek to Cape Town and Pretoria, as well as services to Johannesburg via Upington. It also covers domestic destinations, which includes Karibib, Usakos, Swakopmund and Walvisbay to the west, and Okahandja, Otjiwarongo, Otavi, Tsumeb, Grootfontein, Rundu, Beganie, Kongola and Katima Mulilo to the north. From Katima Mulilo the service continues up to Livingstone/the Victoria Falls in Zambia. To the east, the bus stops in Gobabis and Buitepos on the border with Botswana. To the south of Windhoek the bus covers Rehoboth, Mariental, Keetmanshoop, Grünau, Karasburg, Ariamsvlei and Noordoewer before crossing over to South Africa. The Ekonolux bus service travels between Walvis Bay, Windhoek, Noordoewer, Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Bellville and Paarl twice a week; Bailey’s Reo Liner travels three times per week from Windhoek to Cape Town; the Zambia-Namibia Express travels between Windhoek, Lusaka and Victoria Falls twice a week; and the Botswana-based AT&T Monnakgotla bus service operates between Windhoek and Gaborone twice a week.

Taxis Taxis are readily available in all major cities and towns and are affordable and mostly reliable, but the ride can be somewhat nerve wrecking, depending on traffic and the driver’s mood. Legal taxis are marked by large numbers on the rear window and on the sides of the vehicle. Example price: A ride from a suburb in Windhoek to the city centre costs about N$8 (about US$1 in November 2011). Private operators transport passengers in registered taxis to and From Hosea Kutako International Airport.

A scheduled bus service takes visitors to and from Hosea Kutako Interna56

Travel Times The table below shows a circular route of the most famous tourist attractions, by air Departing Destination Swakopmund

Destination B

Destination C

Distances between main towns: Destination A

Destination B

Main route Estimated Destination en route (In Miles) time

Noordoewer

Keetmanshoop

189

3.5h

Grünau

Ariamsvlei

Keetmanshoop

184

3 – 3.5h

Karasburg, Grünau

Keetmanshoop

Lüderitz

212

Aus

Mod e of tran spor t Car

Etosha (Mokuti)

Time/Distance between 2h14min

Tsumkwe

Time/Distance between 1h39min

Swakopmund

Etosha (Ongava)

1h46min

Windhoek (Eros)

1h43min

Swakopmund

Epupa

2h52min

Windhoek

3h19min

Fish River Canyon Sossusvlei (Geluk)

1h37min

Etosha (Ongava)

2h40min

Lüderitz

Swakopmund

2h02min

Purros

2h05min

Lüderitz

Sossusvlei (Geluk)

1h02min

Twyfelfontein

2h09min

Windhoek

Tsumkwe

2h11min

Etosha (Ongava)

2h09min

Keetmanshoop

Mariental

142

2.5h

Car

Windhoek

Swakopmund

1h10min

Fish River

2h54min

Mariental

Rehoboth

110

Car

Mariental

Maltahöhe

Car

Maltahöhe Maltahöhe Solitaire Solitaire Walvis Bay Swakopmund Swakopmund

Solitaire Sossusvlei Sossusvlei Walvis Bay Swakopmund Okahandja Terrace Bay

95 100 57 133 22 182 247

2h 2h 1h 2.5h 0.5h 3h 4h

Car

Karibib Okahandja Windhoek Windhoek Okahandja Otjiwarongo Outjo Outjo Otjiwarongo Tsumeb Tsumeb

Omaruru Windhoek Rehoboth Buitepos Otjiwarongo Outjo Okaukuejo Khorixas Tsumeb Namutoni Ondangwa

37 44 55 196 110 43 71 84 114 67 152

1h 1h 1h 3h 2h 1h 1h 1.5h 2h 1h 2.5h

Ondangwa Ondangwa Ruacana Opuwo Tsumeb Grootfontein Rundu

Oshikango Ruacana Opuwo Epupa Grootfontein Rundu Katima Mulilo

42 99 91 117 35 148 318

1h 1.5 – 2h 1.5h 2h 1h 2.5h 5h

Katima Mulilo Windhoek Windhoek

Ngoma Ruacana Solitaire (Via the C24/C26/ D1261 passes)

42 534 96/148/16 2

1h 9h 2h/2.5h/ 2.5h

Circular routes covering the most famous tourist attractions, BY CAR: Departing Destination

Destination B

Distance between (In miles) 153/205/219

Windhoek Sossuvlei

Sossusvlei (Via the C24/C26/D1261 passes) Swakopmund

Swakopmund

Windhoek

218

Windhoek

Etosha NP (Okaukuejo)

268

Etosha NP (Namutoni)

Rundu

250

Rundu

Katima Mulilo

318

Katima Mulilo

Windhoek

735

Windhoek

Damaraland (Khorixas)

281

Khorixas

Palmwag

Purros

130

212

Purros

Opuwo

150

Opuwo

Epupa

117

Epupa

Ruacana

Etosha NP (Namutoni)

222

Namutoni

Windhoek

335

Windhoek

Fish River Canyon (Ai Ais)

456

Ai Ais

Keetmanshoop

149

Keetmanshoop

Lüderitz

212

Lüderitz

Windhoek

518

Usakos, Karibib Wlotzkas Baken, Henties Bay, Cape Cross, Torra Bay

Witvlei, Gobabis

Car

Car Car Car Car

Car Car Car Car Car Car Car

Otavi Oshivela, Omuthiya, Onankali

Car Car Car

Oshakati, Uutapi

Nyangani, Mukwe, Andara, Bagani, Kongola

Car Car Car Car Car Car Car Car

Quiz 1 Question 1 of 6

Statistically speaking, there are less than ____ people per square mile in Namibia:

A. 12 B. 100 C. 59 D. 6 Check Answer

PROTECTED AREAS Spread throughout Namibia on an amazing scale, game parks and nature reserves constitute some 18% percent of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available surface area. Some, like the huge Etosha National Park, focus primarily on wildlife, while others like the Namib-Naukluft Park and Fish River Canyon are more landscape oriented, their natural beauty easily upstaging the game. Regardless, these parks represent a network of Namibiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sought-after tourist destinations and often include a wide-range of adventure, camping, hiking and wilderness activities.

Understanding conservation in Namibia

National Parks National Parks and Game Reserves forms part of the Protected Areas Network, listed below:

Namibia Video

Bwabwata National Park In 2007 the former Caprivi Game Park, proclaimed in 1966, was gazet2 ted and proclaimed as the 2 355- mile Bwabwata National Park, to include the Kwando or ‘Golden Triangle’, and the Buffalo and Mahango (the former Mahango Game Park) core areas. This heralds a new generation of parks in terms of an integrated approach towards the environment. The park was designed not only to protect the environment, but also to generate income for the country.

In order to help the understanding of conservation history in Namibia view the following video.

The central area of the park is being zoned for community-based tourism, including trophy hunting, human settlement and development. Cattle movement is controlled to prevent the spread of diseases, and communities living in the park or neighboring areas are given conditional tourism rights to establish, either on their own or in joint ventures, tourism facilities within the park confines. The park has three distinct areas: the perennial Okavango and Kwando rivers, their riparian vegetation and floodplains characterized by reed beds, floating grass mats and woodlands with jackal berry, mangosteen, apple leaf, knob thorn and wild-date palm; a parallel system of drainage lines (omuramba) that run west-north-west or east-south-west; and deep windblown Kalahari sands that form dunes between 65–197 feet high and support deciduous woodlands dominated by seringa, Zambezi teak, wild teak and several wild raisin and bushwillow species. The park is sanctuary to 35 large – including elephant, buffalo, impala, reedbuck, red lechwe, sitatunga, hippo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, Chobe bushbuck, tsessebe, and sable and roan antelope – and numerous smallgame species. Predators such as lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog also occur in the park. Because there is no surface water, most species congregate along the Okavango and Kwando rivers and at the Malombe and Ndwasa pans in the north-east. The Okavango and Kwando rivers and

Nature Reserves Nature Reserves fall under what is now known as the Protected Areas Network, listed under National Parks, which are all state owned.

their associated floodplains are important habitats for wetland bird species, such as wattled cranes and African skinners.

the camping sites at Mile 14, Jakkalsputz, Mile 72 and Mile 108. Beach driving is allowed elsewhere on existing well-used tracks. Quad- and other motorized bikes are prohibited on beaches between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund and on all beaches north of Henties Bay. No driving is allowed in the Swakop River bed up to the Rรถssing Golf Club. Only limited concessionaires may operate there under tourism-specific MET permits. Quad- and other motorized bikes are strictly prohibited in the entire Swakop River. Bikes and vehicles may access the dunes only through the access corridors at Langstrand, Dolfynpark and Dune 7. They must stay within the demarcated access corridors. No quad- or two-wheel bikes are allowed north of the Omaruru River, up to the Ugab River. Driving in any conservation area is strictly prohibited.

Bwabwata, which takes its name from a village in the park and refers to 2 the sound of bubbling water, forms part of the 107 387-mile KavangoZambezi (KaZa) Transfrontier Conservation Area. The reserve is home to over 400 bird species, conspicuous examples being kingfishers, herons, cormorants, African skimmers, wattled cranes, pygmy geese and African fish-eagles. Visitors are cautioned that there are crocodiles and hippos in the river. Since there are no overnight facilities in Bwabwata, visitors usually overnight at one of several guest lodges or at the nearby Popa Falls Camp.

The Namibian coastline is a haven for countless unique plants, animals and birds, a special feature of international interest being the extensive occurrence of lichen fields. Over a hundred lichen species have been recorded in the Namib Desert. A symbiotic composition of an alga and a fungus, lichens are dependent on coastal fog for survival. The continued existence of this intriguing form of desert life is a matter of serious concern to environmentalists, as lichens are extremely slow growing and are destroyed when vehicles drive over them.

Dorob National Park The 124-mile stretch of coastline between the Swakop and Ugab rivers is renowned for its excellent angling potential. Over the years popular angling spots along the coast were identified by dedicated anglers and named to indicate their distance from Swakopmund. To protect the most frequented central coast area against damage caused by off-road driving, the stretch between Sandwich Harbour and the Ugab River was proclaimed as a national park in 2008, elevating the status of the West Coast Recreational Area (WCRA) to that of a national park, and calling it Dorob National Park. New rules, regulations and law enforcement measures are soon to be finalized, following the December 2010 gazetting of this new national park. Until such time, the current off-road rules will apply to the dune belt area between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, for which drivers must have a permit (issued free of charge) to drive in specially demarcated off-road areas.

There are campsites for anglers at Mile 14, Jakkalsputz, Mile 72 and Mile 108. Activities in the park include swimming, golf, skydiving, dune boarding, sand skiing, paragliding, surfing and windsurfing, yachting and angling from the beach or a boat. Etosha National Park Etosha owes its unique landscape to the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow depression of approximately 1 930 miles2 which forms the heart of the park. Once part of a large inland lake fed by rivers from the north and east, it dried up 120 million years ago as continental drift changed the slope of the land and the course of the tributaries. This white, chalky expanse colors the park, and with the waterholes, creates the characteristic atmosphere of the Etosha of today.

It is recognized that a balance needs to be found between conserving the environment and providing citizens and tourists with an opportunity to enjoy off-road recreational vehicle (ORV) activities. To this end, the least sensitive areas have been demarcated exclusively for ORV activities. Between Swakopmund and the Ugab River no driving is allowed on the beaches at Henties Bay, Wlotzkasbaken, Swakopmund, Cape Cross and

A series of waterholes along the southern edge of the pan guarantee rewarding and often spectacular game viewing. In good rain years the pan 61

fills with water draining southwards from Angola via a delta-like system of shallow rivers and oshanas, drying out in the winter to become an austere expanse of white cracked mud, shimmering with mirages and upwardspiraling dust devils. Seeing vast herds of game against this eerie backdrop, referred to in the local vernacular as the ‘great white place of dry water’, makes the Etosha game-viewing experience unique.

which occur around the pan, to thorn-bush and woodland savannah throughout the park. Eighty per cent of all Etosha’s trees are mopane. West of Okaukuejo is the well known Sprokieswoud, Phantom or Fairy Forest, the only location where the African moringa tree, Moringa ovalifolia, grows in a flat area. Etosha is open throughout the year and is accessible by tarred roads via the Andersson Gate on the C38 from Outjo, the Von Lindequist Gate in the east from Tsumeb on the B1, the Galton Gate in the west from Kowares on the C35 and the King Nehale Gate located on the Andoni plains just north of the Andoni waterhole, which provides access from the north-central Owambo regions on the B1 from Onyati. All gates are open from sunrise to sunset and traffic in and out of the King Nehale Gate is managed on the same basis as at the Andersson and Von Lindequist gates, although visitors need to plan ahead to reach their accommodation establishments before sunset, if staying within the park. During the rainy season this is a good option for viewing Fischer’s Pan, a birders’ delight especially for greater and lesser flamingos and even pelicans.

Of the 114 mammals species found in the park, several are rare and endangered, such as black rhino and cheetah, and the lesser-known blackfaced impala, which is endemic to north-western Namibia and southwestern Angola. Etosha’s current population of black rhino represents one of the largest growing populations of black rhino in the world. Other large mammals in the park include elephant, giraffe, blue wildebeest, mountain and plains zebra, hyena and lion. Cheetah and leopard complete the trio of ‘big cats’. Antelope species range from kudu, gemsbok and the large and stately eland, to the diminutive Damara dik-dik. Smaller mammals include jackal, bat-eared fox, honey badger, warthog and the ubiquitous ground squirrel. About 340 bird species occur in Etosha, about one third being migratory, including the European bee-eater and several species of wader. Larger birds include ostrich, kori bustard and greater and lesser flamingo, tens of thousands of which congregate on the pan to breed during a good rainy season. Ten of Etosha’s 35 raptor species are migratory. Those most commonly seen are lappet-faced, white-backed and hooded vultures, while sightings of the Cape, Egyptian and palm-nut vultures have been recorded. There are eight species of owl, including the pearlspotted owlet and southern white-faced scops-owl, and four species of nightjar.

The park has five tourist resorts – Okaukuejo, favored for its floodlit waterhole where ‘specials’ such as elephant, giraffe, black rhino and lion can be viewed at night; Namutoni, characterized by the historic fort around which it is centered; Halali, situated halfway between Okaukuejo and Namutoni; Onkoshi Camp, an exclusive, low-impact, environmentally friendly tented camp about 16 miles north-west of Namutoni; and the newly opened Dolomite Camp situated in western Etosha. Khaudum National Park One of the main attractions of the Kavango Region is the Khaudum National Park, a densely wooded wilderness reserve that borders Botswana in the east and can be explored only in 4x4 vehicles.

For the greater part of the year (the dry season) Etosha’s animals and birds are dependent on about 30 springs and waterholes. These provide excellent game viewing and photographic opportunities. A good policy before setting out is to enquire from camp officials what the current game movements are. During the rainy season, especially, the bird life at the main pan and Fischer’s Pan is worth viewing.

The Khaudum National Park is the only conservation area in Namibia that protects the northern Kalahari sandveld biome. The Khaudum Nature Reserve was proclaimed in 1989. In February 2007, the 1 483-

Etosha’s vegetation varies from dwarf shrub savannah and grasslands, 62

cilities whatsoever, so visitors have to be completely self-sufficient in terms of water, food and fuel. Entry permits for the park are obtainable at the MET office in Katima Mulilo.

mile reserve was given national park status. The densely wooded wilderness harbors several big game species and a multitude of birds. However, as a result of the dense vegetation, game viewing in the Khaudum requires considerable patience. Large animals that occur throughout the park are elephant and giraffe, while predators are lion, leopard, spotted hyena, and side-striped and black-backed jackal. African wild dogs also occur here. Game numbers vary considerably, as Khaudum is unfenced, enabling the animals to follow their natural migration routes.

Mangetti National Park Previously managed as a game camp for breeding rare and endangered species such as black and white rhino, the Mangetti conservation area was proclaimed as the Mangetti National Park in 2008 to protect wildlife and vegetation and provide tangible socioeconomic benefits to local communities through careful tourism development.

Khaudum is the stronghold of Namibia’s roan antelope population. Other animals seen here are kudu, steenbok, gemsbok and blue wildebeest, while tsessebe, hartebeest, eland and reedbuck occur in the central areas. About 320 bird species have been recorded at Khaudum. Rare species include coppery-tailed and Senegal coucals, Bradfield’s hornbills, rufous-bellied tits, black-faced babblers and sharp-tailed starlings.

Situated some 62 miles south-west of Rundu in the Kavango Region, the 2 park extends over about 162 mile and is managed jointly by the Ukwangali Traditional Authority and the MET. Animals seen here include eland, blue wildebeest, wild dog, leopard and hyaena. Additional game including common impala, gemsbok, kudu, giraffe and Burchell's zebra will be translocated through the Enhancing Wildlife-based Economy in Rural Areas Project from the Etosha National Park and the private sector.

A minimum of two 4x4 vehicles per group is allowed to travel in the park. The two campsites, Sikereti and Khaudum, are no longer maintained, although camping is still available at each. It is advised to bring your own water, wood, fuel and provisions. In the Kavango Region petrol is sold only at Tsumkwe, Bagani, Divundu, Mukwe and Rundu.

Mudumu National Park Centered on the Mudumu Mulapo fossil river course, this vast 2 390-mile expanse of dense savannah and mopane woodlands bordered in the west the Kwando River, was proclaimed a national park in 1990. Dense mopane woodlands are at the core of the park, the combination of forest and water ensuring a wealth of wildlife. Mudumu is home to small populations of sitatunga and red lechwe, while spotted-necked otter, hippo and crocodile inhabit the waterways. During a game drive, animals likely to be encountered are elephant, buffalo, roan antelope, kudu, impala and Burchell’s zebra.

Mamili National Park 2 The 124-mile Mamili National Park, proclaimed in 1990, has the distinction of being the largest wetland area with conservation status in Namibia. The park is characterized by a complex network of channels, reed beds, oxbow lakes and tree-covered islands, with the focal point on Nkasa and Lupala, two large islands in the Kwando/Linyanti River. During the dry season the islands can be reached by road, but after the rains 80% of the area becomes flooded, cutting them off from the mainland. The same bird and animal species as in the Mudumu National Park (see below) occur in Mamili.

The park is alive with more than 400 species of birds. Of particular interest are slaty egrets, Hartlaub’s babblers, greater swamp-warblers (in the papyrus swamps), chirping cisticolas, and swamp boubous. Other noteworthy species include black coucals (an intra-African migrant), coppery-tailed

For campers who like to rough it, Mamili offers basic campsites at Nzalu and Lyadura in the east and south east of the reserve. These have no fa63

and Senegal coucals, wattled cranes (flood plains) and rosy-throated longclaws. In the backwaters and swamps, African pygmy-geese and comb duck (between September and April), Allen’s gallinules (between December and April), and African and lesser jacanas are found.

to the public for close to a century, the habitat is largely untouched and pristine, making a visit to the park a truly unique wilderness experience.

Sperrgebiet National Park The Sperrgebiet National Park was proclaimed in 2008. While it is still largely undeveloped and much of it remains inaccessible to visitors, a small section of this wild landscape can be explored with a guided group, accompanied by an official of the MET.

Namib-Skeleton Coast National Park Provisionally it has been called the Namib–Skeleton Coast National Park (NSCNP), because both Namib and Skeleton Coast are already well known, not only in conservation and tourism circles but worldwide, and the brand is regarded as strong by existing and potential new investors. The official name will be announced following further consultation and consideration.

The Sperrgebiet (meaning literally ‘forbidden territory’) covers 10 038 2 miles of globally important semi-desert and forms part of the Succulent Karoo biome that extends into South Africa. With its profusion of succulent species, unrivalled anywhere else on the planet in terms of endemism and number, conservation scientists have classified this area as one of the world’s top 25 Biodiversity Hotspots. To qualify for hot-spot status, an area must contain at least 1 500 endemic vascular plants (0.5% of the planet’s total) and must have lost at least 70% of its original habitat. Prior to the establishment of the Sperrgebiet National Park, a mere 11% of the surviving Succulent Karoo, which is home to 2 439 endemic plants, was in protected areas. Now, with the park’s proclamation, 90% is protected.

Soon to be proclaimed, the repackaged park will stretch along the entire Namibian coastline, a distance of some 976 miles, from the Orange River in the south to the Kunene River in the north, comprising four main terrestrial Management Areas – the Sperrgebiet National Park (name under review) in the south; the NamibNaukluft Park; the central area between the Ugab River and Sandwich Harbour for which Cabinet has adopted the name Dorob National Park; and the Skeleton Coast Park in the north. At its narrowest point in the Skeleton Coast, the park extends about 16 miles inland, while at its widest in the Naukluft area it extends inland about 112 miles to the top of the escarpment.

Concessionaires with the MET take visitors from Lüderitz into the northern extremity of the park where they can admire the colossal 55-metre high Bogenfels rock arch, the modern diamond mine and the mysterious ghost town at Elizabeth Bay, the ghost town of Pomona (noteworthy for enduring the highest average wind speeds in Southern Africa) and Märchental – the famous ‘Fairy Tale Valley’ – where diamonds were once so common they could be picked up in handfuls as they gleamed in the light of the moon.

In addition, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources obtained Cabinet approval to proclaim Namibia’s first Marine Protected Area (see above), immediately adjacent to the Sperrgebiet and Namib-Naukluft Management Areas. Namibia will be the only continental country in the world that has its entire coastline protected as a national park. The new park will be the eighth-largest protected area in the world, the sixth-largest terrestrial protected area globally and the largest park in Africa, covering an area of 41 2 521 miles .

Activities further south include kayaking the Orange River to observe the birds and animals that frequent this internationally renowned Ramsar wetland site and viewing the wealth of succulents, some growing as tall as trees and many putting on a spectacular floral display after winter rains. Because the Sperrgebiet, due to its diamond wealth, has been off limits

Cape Cross Seal Reserve The Cape Cross Seal Reserve, with a surrounding area of 2 about 23 miles consisting of flat gravel plains and the rock outcrop where the seals gather, was proclaimed in 1968 to protect 64

the biggest and best known of the 23 colonies of Cape fur seals that breed along the coast of South Africa and Namibia. The reserve is situated approximately 80 miles north of Swakopmund and is open daily from 08:00–17:00 (16 November–30 June) and 10:00–17:00 (1 July–15 November).

white-breasted and reed cormorants, African darters, African spoonbills, osprey and African fish-eagles. Other species likely to be seen are ostrich, kori bustard, Namaqua sandgrouse, several species of chat, Stark’s lark, Sclater’s lark and Bradfield’s swift. South West Nature Reserve Better known as the National Botanic Garden, the South West Nature Reserve is one of Windhoek’s gems. It offers several selfguided walking trails, while regular guided walks are conducted to inform visitors about Namibia’s diverse plant life. Two hundred different varieties of indigenous plants have been identified in the garden, the most common of which are labelled for visitors to identify. A visit to the Desert House, home to rare and protected species from the Namib Desert, will provide an insight into species that often occur in remote and inaccessible parts of the desert. The garden is open on weekdays between 8:00 and 17:00.

It was here that the Portuguese navigator, Diego Cão, on his second expedition to Africa south of the equator, planted a stone cross in 1486. Two replicas of this cross can be viewed at the site where the original one was erected. A small lichen reserve containing a relatively large variety of species can be viewed close by. Bird islands off the coast are also protected. The Cape fur seal, Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus, is the largest of the world’s nine fur-seal species. As many as 210 000 of these animals gather at Cape Cross at any one time during the November/ December breeding season. Hardap Game Reserve With a capacity of 85 million gallon and a surface area of 10 2 miles , Hardap is Namibia’s largest dam, built in the 1960s. 2 The 98-mile game reserve and recreation resort were proclaimed in 1968.

Daan Viljoen Game Park Set in the rolling hills of the Khomas Hochland, the Daan Viljoen Game Park served as a popular retreat for Windhoek residents and tourists since the 1960s. It is currently being redeveloped by the Prosperity Group, which signed a 30-year lease agreement with state-owned company NWR to turn it into a modern tourism, conference and health facility. Phase one of the Daan Viljoen Resort, the general tourism facility, was expected to open in September 2011, while development of phases two and three were earmarked to commence in 2012 and 2013 respectively.

While the Hardap Recreation Resort is visited primarily by overnight visitors, aquatic sportspeople and freshwater angling enthusiasts, the game reserve, divided by the dam into a northern and southern section, affords excellent game-viewing opportunities. The largest game concentrations are found in the southern section, which can be explored by several routes. Game likely to be seen on this route are kudu, gemsbok, springbok, Hartmann’s mountain zebra, red hartebeest and steenbok. Also present but seldom encountered are leopard. In 1990 four black rhino were translocated from the Kunene Region into the reserve. They settled in the north and northwestern sections, and although rarely seen, their distinctive four-toed spoor and dung are proof that they are there.

As has been the case with Daan Viljoen in the past, the main tourism thrust is the wildlife of the park, and visitors are encouraged to experience the flora and fauna of Daan Viljoen on foot. 2 Although comparatively small (just under 15 mile ), the park gives sanctuary to a relatively large population of game species typical of Namibia’s highlands. Animals likely to be seen at Daan Viljoen are kudu, springbok, gemsbok, eland, red hartebeest, Hartmann’s mountain zebra, blue wildebeest, baboon, klipspringer, steenbok and rock dassie. Approxi-

Two hundred and six species of birds occur in the Hardap environs, of which 20% are water birds. The dam is home to one of Namibia’s three largest colonies of white pelicans. There are also greater flamingos, 65

mately 200 bird species have been recorded in the park. Interesting endemic species to look out for are Rüppell’s parrot, Monteiro’s hornbill, Carp’s tit, rockrunner and white-tailed shrike.

Seasoned hikers regard the 53-mile Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail as one of Southern Africa’s major hiking challenges. It leads from the northernmost viewpoint to /Ai-/Ais at the southern end and takes from four to five days to complete.

Fish River Canyon and /Ai-/Ais Resort In 1989 the /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Resort, Fish River Canyon and Huns Mountains west of the canyon were incorporated into a single conservation area. The attraction of this rugged wilderness is its isolated and otherworldly landscape and wealth of interesting xerophytic plants such as the halfmens or elephant’s trunk, Pachypodium namaquanum. Geologically and botanically the area is similar to South Africa’s Richtersveld south of the Orange River. The long-term conservation objective to manage the Huns Mountains and /Ai-/Ais Game Park jointly with the Richtersveld National Park as one integrated Transfrontier Conservation Area (TFCA) was realised during 2003.

Accommodation provided by the NWR in the park consists of the Hobas Campsite near the northern lookout point and the /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Resort in the southern section of the canyon. Namib-Naukluft Park Namibia’s most versatile conservation area and one of the country’s major tourist destinations is the Namib-Naukluft Park. An amalgamation of the Namib Desert Park (proclaimed in 1907), the Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park (created in 1966), unoccupied public land and a section of Diamond Area 2, the Namib-Naukluft Park was proclaimed in 1979 as one integrated reserve. Following the addition in 1990 of another portion of Diamond Area 2, it now has a surface area 2 of 19 216 miles . In 2007 the Namib-Naukluft Park celebrated its hundredth year of existence.

Eroded over many millennia, the Fish River Canyon is the second-largest natural canyon in the world. Set in a harsh, stony plain, dotted with drought-resistant succulents such as the distinctive quiver tree or kokerboom, Aloe dichotoma, and Euphorbia gregaria, the canyon is a spectacular natural phenomenon that took hundreds of millions of years to evolve. While its full length is 99 miles – the width is up to 17 miles and depth up to 1 804 feet – its most spectacular section is the 35-mile stretch between the northernmost and southernmost viewpoints.

This vast wilderness contains key features such as Sossusvlei, Sesriem, the Welwitschia Trail, Sandwich Harbour, the Naukluft Mountains and the Kuiseb Canyon. The park is managed as a wilderness area, and accordingly has no large resorts, only serviced camping sites at Sesriem and Naukluft and a number of rudimentary camping sites in the Namib section. There are, however, a large number of private accommodation establishments just outside the park, especially in the vicinity of Sesriem.

Because the river flows intermittently, there is always water in some of the pools, except in very dry years. Containing small- and largemouth yellowfish, sharptooth catfish, tilapia and common carp, the pools are also frequented by the water monitor or leguan.

In the Namib This section is situated in the central and southern Namib. Ostrich, springbok and gemsbok are especially conspicuous on the desert plains, while Hartmann’s mountain zebra, klipspringer and baboon frequent the canyons of the Swakop and Kuiseb rivers, and leopard and African wildcat the Kuiseb Canyon. Larger predators found here are spotted and brown hyaena, and smaller predators include black-backed jackal and bat-eared fox.

Baboon, rock hyrax, ground squirrel and klipspringer are often seen in the canyon, while the presence of leopard and mountain zebra is indicated by tracks left at waterholes. Kudu inhabit the densely vegetated lower reaches north of /Ai-/Ais. An interesting variety of birds, such as the olive thrush, Cape robin-chat and African black duck, are found in the canyon.

miles south of Walvis Bay at the foot of towering ivorycoloured dunes, is a spectacular and sought-after destination. The lagoon, referred to in old texts as Sandfisch Haven, is a former bay that became silted up over the years. Today Sandwich is visited especially by anglers, ornithologists, photographers and nature lovers.

An intriguing host of small creatures have adapted to survive in the Namib dunes. The fog-basking beetle, Onymacris unguicularis, drinks water by positioning itself on the crest of a dune, dropping its head and extending its hind legs. Its back serves as a condensation surface for fog, which forms droplets and slides downwards towards the mouth. An intriguing ‘thermal dance’ is performed by the shovel-snouted lizard, Meroles anchietae, to cope with the extreme heat radiating from dune surfaces.

The Sandwich area has a strange mystique, enhanced by the legend that buried somewhere in the dunes above the high-water mark is a ship with a rich cargo of ivory, gold and precious stones. This treasure has been searched for by many fortune hunters, but to date has eluded all. The lagoon is fed by fresh water seeping from an inland aquifer, and is a sanctuary for large numbers of coastal and freshwater birds. It is also an important breeding ground for a variety of fish species.

The Desert Research Foundation of Namibia (DRFN) on the banks of the Kuiseb River at Gobabeb has an international reputation for researching the Namib ecology. It plays an active role in environmental education, presented in the Gobabeb Training and Research Centre. On certain weekends – the dates are announced in the local media – nature lovers are hosted at Gobabeb and introduced to the wonders of the Namib.

Permits to visit Sandwich are obtainable from the MET office in Swakopmund and at certain service tations in Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. Please note that Sandwich is accessible by 4x4 vehicles only; that in certain areas angling and vehicles are prohibited; that angling is not allowed from 25 January to 15 April; and that overnight camping is not allowed here.

During February 2009 the first lodge concession was awarded in the NNP, which will benefit both Gobabeb and the tourism sector. The concession will showcase responsible low-impact tourism developed in line with decades of research in the area and promises to benefit the neighbouring Topnaar community in a number of ways. The concession sites are located between 62 and 75 miles southeast of Walvis Bay. Two sites for permanent occupation are located along the Kuiseb River, and two temporary camps lie deep in the plains, allowing an ultimate desert experience of unfettered space.

Welwitschia Trail A popular feature of the Namib-Naukluft Park is the Welwitschia Trail, east of Swakopmund. The route is marked with stone beacons designating various attractions and offers a close look at the Welwitschia mirabilis, a botanical curiosity endemic to the Namib Desert. A large concentration of these plants is found along the Welwitschia Trail, marking their most southern distribution. From here welwitschias occur in stands sporadically northwards into southwestern Angola. A magnificent specimen, known as the Great Welwitschia and estimated to be about 1 500 years old, can be seen along the Welwitschia Trail.

There are several state-run camping sites in this section of the park where fireplaces and toilets are provided. However, visitors need to be self-sufficient in respect of water, firewood, fuel and food supplies. The campsites are at Kuiseb Bridge (along the C14), Homeb (Kuiseb River), Swakop River (en route to the Welwitschia Plains), Mirabib (between Gobabeb and the C14), Bloedkoppie (spectacular surroundings), Groot Tinkas (four-wheel drive only), Ganab (wide-open spaces), Vogelfederberg and Kriess-se-Rus.

A scenic desert drive along a proclaimed road through the NamibNaukluft Park stops at a lookout point over the valley known as the Moon Landscape. Soft overlaying levels of earth, deposited some 450 million years ago, were eroded over millennia to create this eerie landscape. An unexpected cluster of eucalyptus and palm trees on the banks of the

Sandwich Harbour The reed-fringed lagoon at Sandwich Harbour, situated 30 67

In Nauklft The Naukluft section of the park was created to serve as a sanctuary for Hartmann’s mountain zebra, which were competing with livestock for grazing on farms. With its massive and varied rock formations, Naukluft is a geologist’s paradise. The intermittent layers of horizontally folded igneous rock, quartzite, dolomite and shale are impressive with their giant symmetrical patterns. Five different vegetation communities within the park ensure a wealth of tree and shrub species, and a variety of aloes.

Swakop River at the farm Goanikontes surrounds a historic farmhouse dating back to the mid-1850s. In earlier times the farm had a thriving vegetable garden that supplied fresh produce to Swakopmund. Goanikontes is now a popular picnic site. Sossusvlei Many visitors to Namibia say that no part of the desert is visually more dramatic than Sossusvlei with its monumentally high dunes. These gigantic star-shaped mountains of sand – one of the largest was measured from the base to be 1 066 miles high – are a sought-after topic for artists and photographers. The warm tints of the sand contrast vividly with the dazzling white surfaces of the large deflationary clay pans at their bases. One of these, referred to as Dead Pan, is a large ghostly expanse of dried white clay, punctuated by skeletons of ancient camel-thorn trees, carbon-dated as being between 500 and 600 years old.

Animals found at Naukluft in addition to Hartmann’s mountain zebra are kudu, gemsbok, klipspringer, duiker, steenbok, leopard, baboon, black-backed jackal, bat-eared fox, African wild cat, caracal and aardwolf. Naukluft’s steep cliffs are nesting grounds for various cliff-breeding bird species, including Verreaux’s eagles. Day visitors are not allowed into Naukluft. For overnight visitors, even short walks in the vicinity of the campsite are rewarding, as there are mountain pools close by.

Sossusvlei’s mountainous dunes lie at the end of an erosional trough formed by the Tsauchab River. They are shaped by strong multidirectional winds, primarily the southwester, and have three to five sinuous crests, which meet at the highest point to give them their star shape.

Popa Game Park Rushing rapids, melodious birdcalls and shady, riverine trees are sounds that typify Popa Game Park. Located on the Okavango River opposite the Bwabwata National Park, Popa Falls is famous for its setting near rapids that cascade down and across the river.

Visitors are allowed access to Sossusvlei only between sunrise and sunset. The first 37 miles of the road from Sesriem to Sossusvlei has a permanent surface and is suitable for sedan cars, whereas the last 3-mile stretch of sandy track is negotiable by 4x4 vehicles only. A shuttle service is available for people who do not want to hike the last 3 miles.

Over 400 species of birds have been recorded here, and tigerfish, threespot and greenheaded tilapia are just some of the game fish that occur in the Okavango River, making it a popular destination for anglers. River cabins, fishing permits, camping, a restaurant and bar are available at Popa Falls Camp.

Sesriem Canyon The permit office complex for entry to Sossusvlei and other destinations in this part of the park is at Sesriem. Four kilometres south from here is Sesriem Canyon, where the erosion of many centuries has incised a narrow gorge about 1 km in length. At the foot of the gorge, which plunges down 98–131 feet, are pools that become replenished after good rains. Sesriem derives its name from the time when early pioneers tied six lengths of rawhide thongs together to draw water from these pools.

Skeleton Coast Park The Skeleton Coast Park, proclaimed in its present form in 1971, extends from the Ugab River in the south for 311 miles to the Kunene 2 River in the north, covering an area of 6 503 miles . It protects about one third of Namibia’s coastline.

The landscape in the park ranges from sweeping vistas of windswept dunes to rugged canyons with walls of richly coloured volcanic rock and extensive mountain ranges. Over a hundred species of lichen grow on the plains and west-facing mountain slopes, changing colour and becoming soft and leathery to the touch when the coastal fog generated by the cold Benguela Current pushes inland.

and barbel also occur here. Visitors can explore the surrounding nature reserve on foot. While gameviewing opportunities are limited, kudu, baboon, Hartmannâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mountain zebra, gemsbok and red hartebeest are seen here. Facilities at the dam, which are owned and managed by Tungeni Investments, include picnic sites for day visitors, bungalows and camping facilities on the southeastern banks of the dam. Freshwater angling licences are obtainable at the gate

Animals occurring on the plains are gemsbok, springbok, jackal, ostrich and brown hyaena, while desert-adapted elephant and even black rhino, lion and giraffe roam up and down the dry river courses. Of special interest are the clay castles of the Hoarusib, the saltpans near the Agate Mountain and the seal colony at Cape Frio.

Waterberg Plateau Park Rising some 656 feet above the surrounding African bush and savannah, the Waterberg Plateau with its flamboyant brickred sandstone formations and lush green vegetation presents 2 an island of vibrant colour. The 157-mile park, situated 37 miles east of Otjiwarongo and 186 miles northeast of Windhoek, was proclaimed in 1972. It was originally created as a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, such as roan and sable antelope, tsessebe and Cape buffalo.

Accommodation in the park is provided in a rest camp at Terrace Bay, previously a diamond-mining settlement, and at the Torra Bay camping site, open only from 1 December to 31 January. The northern section of the Skeleton Coast Park is a tourism concession area and restricted to fly-in safaris only. The southern section â&#x20AC;&#x201C; between the Ugab and Hoanib rivers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is accessible to the general public staying at Terrace Bay and Torra Bay. However, because of the ecological sensitivity of the surroundings, it is managed by the MET as a wilderness area.

Today the park is home to some 25 game and over 200 bird species. The vegetation changes dramatically from acacia savannah at the foot of the plateau to lush, green sub-tropical dry woodland with tall trees and grassy plains at the top. Ten fern species have been recorded at the Waterberg, of which one is endemic to Namibia and Angola. There is also an impressive range of flowering plants, including the conspicuous flame lily, Gloriosa superba. Dinosaur tracks imbedded in sandstone can be seen on top of the plateau.

A day permit to drive directly through the southern region of the park is obtainable from the MET Tourist Office in Swakopmund, as well as at the Ugab and Springbokwasser gates. Von Bach Game Park Accessible from the B1 from Windhoek to the north, signposted about 2 miles south of Okahandja, the Von Bach Dam 2 and Game Park extends over an area of 17 miles .

Accommodation in the park consists of refurbished luxury chalets and a well-equipped camping area in the Waterberg Camp at the foot of the plateau. The restaurant, kiosk and museum are housed in the restored Rasthaus, originally built in 1908 and used as a police post for several years. Below the resort, on the site of the historic Battle of Waterberg, a graveyard serves as a reminder of this turbulent period in history. Schutztruppe (German soldiers) who died in the battle fought between the Herero and German colonial forces in 1904 are buried here.

The facility, proclaimed in 1972, has become a popular venue for aquatic sports such as water-skiing, yachting, windsurfing and boating. The dam is popular among freshwater angling enthusiasts, as it has been stocked with large-mouth bass, blue kurper and small-mouth yellow-fish. Carp 69

of the northern Namib coastal desert. In addition to being scenically beautiful, with landscapes ranging from vast gravel plains and dry river courses to dune seas and deep canyons, the park is home to the Welwitschia mirabilis. The park also harbours populations of desert-adapted elephant, black rhino, springbok and gemsbok, and in recent years, coastal lions.

At the eastern extremity of the park is the Okatjikona Environmental Education Centre, a facility that provides the opportunity for visiting groups, mainly schoolchildren, to learn about the importance of environmental conservation. The superb natural beauty of Waterberg can be explored either by vehicle on a guided game-viewing tour, on foot by means of guided wilderness trails or on a four-day self-guided wilderness trail and easy walking trails.

The Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area: Namibia has designated the Bwabwata National Park, Mudumu National Park, Mamili National Park, Khaudum National Park, Mangetti National Park, Caprivi State Forest and Conservancies, including the Nyae Nyae and N#a-Jaqua, and community forests between and around these protected areas for inclusion in the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KaZa). These national parks are linked with each other, their complex network of rivers and relatively high summer rainfall maintaining a fertile wilderness of riverine forests, flood plains, swamps and open woodland to form a coherent conservation core area rich in game species including roan and sable antelope, tsessebe, buffalo and vast herds of elephant, as well as aquatic antelope species such as lechwe, sitatunga, puku, waterbuck and reedbuck, and over 420 bird species. The MET has set up a project to improve park management and upgrade the infrastructure to cope with an increased tourism influx. Spanning over 1 71 429 miles2 (similar in size to Sweden), KaZa is the world's biggest conservation area, comprising multiple resource use areas including National Parks, Game Reserves, Forest Reserves, Conservancies, Game/Wildlife Management Areas and communal lands in Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Transfrontier Parks The Namibian Government is firmly committed to the transfrontier process and has achieved several agreements with cross-border countries. The /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: With South Africa as co-signee, Namibia established its first TFP, the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, in 2003. To improve traffic in the park, the Sendelingsdrift border post on the southern border of Namibia was opened. About 70% of the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2 334 2 miles is situated in Namibia, comprising the /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Game Park and the Hunsberg conservation area in the west. The Huns Mountains, Fish River Canyon and /Ai/Ais Hot Springs are focal points situated in the /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Game Park, while the 53 mile-long Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail ranks among the top hiking trails in Southern Africa. Despite being proclaimed in 1988, the rugged Huns Mountains area has remained largely unknown. The park currently offers hiking, four-by-four trails and canoeing excursions down the Orange River. Cradled by the 62 mile-long loop made by the Orange River downstream of Noordoewer, the remainder of the transfrontier park is made up of the Richtersveld National Park in South 2 Africa, an area of 62 720 miles that provides protection to South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only mountain desert. The Richtersveld is a solitary and desolate world of wild mountainous terrain interspersed by plains and deep river valleys.

Conservation Areas Conservation areas in Namibia include the transfrontier conservation areas and national parks. Please see respective sections for more details. Conservancies A conservancy is a legally protected area belonging to a group of bona fide land occupiers who have pooled their resources to practice cooperative management based on a sustainable utilization strategy to promote the conservation of natural resources including wildlife, where conservation means the management of human utilization of organisms or ecosystems to ensure that such utilization is of a sustainable nature. Con-

The Iona Skeleton Coast Transfrontier Conservation Area: A Memorandum of Understanding between Namibia and Angola was signed in 2003 to establish the Iona Skeleton Coast 2 Transfrontier Conservation Area, encompassing 12 177 miles 70

servation also includes the protection, maintenance, rehabilitation, restoration and enhancement of the populations of ecosystems. The ultimate objective is to reinstate the original biodiversity of the area and to share resources amongst all members of the conservancy.

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The first conservancies in Namibia were commercial conservancies, now called freehold conservancies, as they are on privately owned land. The oldest conservancy on commercial farmland in Namibia is the Ngarangombe Conservancy, established in 1991. Today there are 23 freehold conservancies in Namibia, all voluntary associations that came into being through the concern and dedication of communities in the commercial farming areas.

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the Omusati Region; the Joseph Mbambangandu, George Mukoya, Muduva Nyangana and Shamungwa conservancies in the Kavango Region; the King Nehale Conservancy in the Oshikoto Region; the Eiseb, Otjombinde and Omuramba Ua Mbinda conservancies in the Omaheke Region; and the Okongo Conservancy in the Ohangwena Region. www.nacso.org.na

Private Game Reserves At present there are almost 200 private game reserves registered in Namibia. Private landholders in Namibia play a significant role in the conservation of wildlife. This has resulted in several outstanding conservation initiatives on privately owned land. The largest of these is the NamibRand Nature Reserve, a vast area of about 444 790 acres situated south of Sesriem, is a scenically beautiful conservation area created by Windhoek businessman, Albi Brückner.

A fast-expanding field of environmental management is communal conservancies, which are managed by local inhabitants, provide employment and give locals the opportunity to benefit directly from their wildlife and other natural resources. There are currently a total of 65 registered communal conservancies in Namibia, adding another 19% to Namibia’s protected area network. The following communal conservancies are registered: • the Salambala, Mashi, Wuparo, Kwandu, Mayuni, Kasika, Balyerwa, Sobbe, Impalila, Sikunga, Dzoti and Bamunu conservancies in the Caprivi Region; • the Nyae Nyae, N#a-Jaqua, African Wild Dog, Ondjou, Okamatipati, Otjituuo, Ozonahi and Ovitoto conservancies in the Otjozondjupa Region; • the Marienfluss, Puros, Ehirovipuka, Sorri-Sorris, Omatendeka, //Huab, Orupembe, Sanitatas, Anabeb, Sesfontein, Okangundumba, Ozondundu, //Khoadi-//Hôas, Torra, Doro !Nawas, //Audi, Kunene River, Uibasen Twyfelfontein, Okonjombo, Otjambangu, Otjitanda, Orupupa and !Khoro !Ghoreb conservancies in the Kunene Region; • the Tsiseb, Otjimboyo, Ohungu and #Gaingu conservancies in the Erongo Region; • the Oskop and Huibes conservancies in the Hardap Region; • the //Gamaseb, !Gawachab, !Khob !Naub and !Han/Awab in the Karas Region; • the Uukwaluudhi, Uukolonkadhi-Ruacana and Sheya Shuushona in

In southern Namibia the Gondwana Collection consists of four private nature reserves (about 486 798 acres combined) – the Gondwana Kalahari Park, Gondwana Cañon Park, Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park and Gondwana Namib Park — which offer hiking tours, nature drives and accommodation facilities. Also in the south is the Sandfontein Nature Game Reserve, which stretches over 187 800 acres. Bigger than Singapore, Sandfontein is home to numerous species of game exceeding 4,000 in number (including the endangered black rhino) and includes 16 miles of Orange River frontage, the border between Namibia and South Africa. The Erindi Private Game Reserve (195 213 acres) in central Namibia is home to over 20 000 animals. Conservation is an important aspect of business and includes the preservation, maintenance, sustainable utilization, restoration and enhancement of the natural environment.

Situated in the upper reaches of the Huab River, the Huab Private Nature Reserve (19 917 acres) provides a sanctuary for the desert-dwelling elephants of the area. Fischerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pan Private Game Reserve (17,297 acres) lies next to the Etosha National Park in the east, as does the 88,958-acre Onguma Private Game Reserve adjoining Fischerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pan, both harbouring many of the mammals and birds found in Etosha.

The Orange River Mouth is a transborder site with South Africa and comprises 1 235 acres. The sole perennial river in the region, it forms a linear oasis (floodplain) of islands and sand bars through an arid region. The site provides habitat for a variety of endemic plants and during the summer is the sixth richest wetland in southern Africa, in terms of bird numbers supported. The abundance of three species exceeds 1% of their respective global populations. Restricted recreation takes place within the park. In surrounding areas, activities include diamond mining, irrigation, and large-scale water abstraction.

Ramsar Sites The total area of the Walvis Bay Wetlands is approximately 31,135 acres; this excludes the deep waters of the bay and the Pelican Point peninsula. The Walvis Bay wetlands - the lagoon, mudflats, shoreline and salt works - constitute the single most important coastal wetland in southern Africa for palaearctic (migratory) birds and amongst the top 3 for palaearctic (migratory) birds on the continent of Africa.

Etosha Pan, Lake Oponono and the Cuvelai drainage is a system of ephemeral rivers, feeding pans and associated lake and delta. Habitats include the pans, seasonally flooded grasslands, palm tree savannah, woodlands, and dry bush savannah. The system supports 45% of Namibia's human population, who exist by subsistence farming and fishing on the floodplains and seasonal wetlands. Local people rely upon seasonal ponds and shallow wells for their water. The site supports populations of several rare and endangered large mammals, and in good rainy seasons it serves as a breeding ground for flamingos. It is 1 482 632 acres in size.

The open desert landscape and the presence of predators, mainly Blackbacked Jackals (Canis mesomelas) and Kelp Gulls (Larus dominicanus), combine to limit opportunities for ground-nesting birds to breed at Walvis Bay. The wetland therefore serves mainly as a dry-season and drought refuge for intra-African migrants and as a non-breeding area for Palaearctic migrants. Key species of African birds are Greater and Lesser Flamingos, Chestnut-banded Plover, Black-necked Grebe and the African Black Oystercatcher. Human activities consist of recreation and salt production. Residential development exists along the lagoon, and natural siltation may eventually lead to the infilling. Sandwich Harbour comprises 40,772 acres with two distinct wetlands and associated mudflats. One is aquifer-fed and supports typical emergent vegetation, but is slowly disappearing due to natural causes. The second, under tidal influence, consists of mudflats and raised shingle bars. One of Namibia's most important coastal wetlands, supporting eight endangered species among the large numbers of wading birds. Several archaeological sites dating back 1,000 years exist within the site. Human activities have included fishing, guano collection, and hunting. The site is used for scientific research, with surrounding areas used for tourism, recreation, and angling.

CONSERVATION INITIATIVES Learn about the many conservation efforts and initiatives currently going on in Namibia.

Conservation initiatives

Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation (IRDNC)

AfriCat The AfriCat Foundation is an organization committed to the conservation of Namibia’s large carnivores. By working with commercial farmers, local communities, stakeholders, communal conservancies and the youth of Namibia, AfriCat supports environmental education, rehabilitation and welfare programs, provides solutions to human-wildlife conflict issues and conducts constructive wildlife research. The organization operates from two locations – one on Okonjima farm in central Namibia, near the town of Otjiwarongo and the second, known as AfriCat North, from Kaross farm, bordering Etosha National Park. Learn more here: www.africat.org

The Integrated Rural Development Nature Conservation’s (IRDNC) work focuses on supporting conservancies and newly registered associations that focus on natural resource management, event books and human-wildlife conflict. (note, wondering what an “event book” is? Click here to read an article that explains). The IRDNC’s mission is to improve the lives of rural people by diversifying the socio-economy in Namibia's communal areas to include wildlife and other valuable natural resources. The organization aims to build up the capacity of rural Namibians, and to assist them to develop a civil society whose members can sustainably manage and benefit from their local natural resources. Learn more here: www.irdnc.org.na

Afri-Leo/AfriCat North Since its creation in 1997, Afri-Leo has worked closely with the AfriCat Foundation. Due to the ever-increasing demands of carnivore conservation, the two groups merged under the AfriCat banner in March 2011. Afri-Leo’s programs and projects continue and expand under the name AfriCat North. The three focus areas for AfriCat North are defined as follows: environmental education and awareness; human-wildlife conflict mitigation and community support; and welfare. Learn more here: www.africat.org

Harnas The vision of Harnas is to be a sustainable nature reserve. They support releaseing specific species, function as a temporary reception center and recovery station for animals that will be released back into the wild. Harnas has a close cooperation with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Harnas seeks to resolve human abuse through knowledge, experience, and education. On a national level, they invite economic investment through tourism. This, in turn, creates jobs and new skills for locals who inform guests and volunteers from around the globe about conservation awareness, research and the rescue center. Learn more here: www.harnas.org

Cheetah Conservation Fund The Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) is deeply involved in cheetah conservation, livestock guarding, school education and conservation biology programs. Founded in 1990, the CCF's mission is to be the internationally recognized centre of excellence in the conservation of cheetahs and their ecosystems. CCF works with all stakeholders to develop best practices in research, education, and land use to benefit all species, including people. CCF's International Research and Education Centre is based near Otjiwarongo. Learn more here: www.cheetah.org

Ministry of Environment and Tourism The mission of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism is to maintain and rehabilitate essential ecological processes and life-support systems, to conserve biological diversity and to ensure that the utilization of natural resources is sustainable for the benefit of all Namibians, both present and future, as well as the international community, as provided for in the Constitution. The conservation work that MET is involved in includes environmental management, policy development and implementation. It is also en74

gaged in management of protected areas and rare and endangered species, integrated land management, and environmental education, among other areas. Learn more here: www.met.gov.na

Desert Lion Project; Large Carnivore Atlas; Large Carnivore Reintroductions; Leopard Home Range Study; and Leopard Collaring. www.predatorconservation.com Save the Rhino Trust The Save the Rhino Trust was formed in 1982 with the aim of ensuring protection of the remaining population of black rhinos while giving elephant and other wildlife the chance to recover to sustainable numbers. The organization is led by Rudi Loutit who is supported by a committed staff of local Namibians. They have first hand experience, having spent the better part of their lives living with black rhinos in the Kunene. These dedicated people constantly monitor the rhinos on foot, with camels, by air and by vehicle in order to protect these rare and critically endangered animals. SRT has an administrative office in Swakopmund, and field bases at Palmwag, Mbakondja and the Ugab River at Brandberg West. www.savetherhinotrust.org

N/a’an kuse N/a’an kuse’s philosophy is "Conservation through Innovation" and they strive to create sustainable and long-term solutions to protect and conserve Namibia’s vulnerable wildlife and to improve the lives of the marginalized San community. Their vision is to play a pro-active role in nature conservation. Their work includes incorporating indigenous San skills to identify problem animals, developing innovative techniques and collar release and monitoring. They run several projects including a Lifeline Clinic, school, wildlife sanctuary and a Carnivore Conservation Research Project. Learn more here: www.naankuse.com Namib Desert Environmental Education Trust (NaDeet) NaDeet is involved in primary, secondary and community programs on sustainable livelihoods, covering energy, water, waste and biodiversity management. NaDeet advocates for the use of solar energy, water counting and saving and producing fuel from recycled waste. NaDeet believes environmental education must not only increase awareness and knowledge but also eco-friendly attitudes and skills in Namibia's youth and educators to promote participation. NaDeet was established in 2003. It is located 100 km south of Sesriem/ Soussusvlei on the NamibRand Nature Reserve. www.nadeet.org Predator Conservation Trust The Predator Conservation Trust is a UK charity organization that supports projects in Namibia and other Southern African countries. The Trust believes that sound ecological data such as reliable population estimates, distribution and population demography are crucial in the implementation of conservation strategies. Projects supported in Namibia include: the Caprivi Carnivore Project; Brown Hyena Research Project;

PRACTICAL TIPS While visiting Namibia there are many useful services available to fit your needs. If you need to rent a car, find a conference center, shop or grab a shuttle you can find out where to go and who to contact here.

Practical Tips Below you’ll find a series of useful information: 3.

Time Zone Namibia observes Daylight Saving Time (GMT/UTC + 2h) from the first Sunday in September to the first Sunday in April, after which clocks are turned one hour forward to Namibia Standard Time. From April until September Namibia observes GMT/UTC + 1h, Standard Time.

Visitors departing from any other designated departure point, must complete a VAT 16 or VAT 17 claim form and present the claim form together with the tax invoices and the goods to a Customs Official. The claim will be processed by the VRA in Windhoek and payment made in preferred manner once the claim has been approved by the Commissioner of Inland Revenue.

Currency Is the Namibia dollar (N$), which is fixed to and equals the South African rand (ZAR). The Namibia dollar and South African rand are the only legal tender in Namibia. The Namibian Dollar is not accepted as legal tender in any other country. US$ can be exchanged at most Namibian banks.

Withdrawing Money/ATM Machines Money can be withdrawn with credit and debit cards at most ATM machines, located in all big towns throughout the country. Keep in mind that no ATM facilities are available in small towns and villages. Money can also be withdrawn with a credit card, over the counter at most banks.

Taxes It is possible for foreign tourists to reclaim the VAT on a min. value of N$250 of goods bought in Namibia. Click here to read details on this.

via aircraft, goods must be presented to a Customs Official before check-in for departure. Present your claim at the VAT Refund Office at Hosea Kutako International Airport. The claim will be processed and a VAT refund receipt issued. A VAT refund cheque, issued in South African Rand will be issued, which is payable anywhere in the world.

In order to claim a VAT refund on goods (minimum value of N$250.00), foreign tourists or non-residents are required to follow the following procedures as set out by the Commissioner of Inland Revenue: Request a tax invoice for the goods purchased. A tax invoice must contain the following: a. The words “tax invoice” in a prominent place b. The name, address and VAT registration number of the registered person making the supply c. The name and address of the recipient of the supply d. The individual serial number and date on which the tax invoice was issued e. A description of the goods supplied f. The quantity or volume of goods supplied g. The total amount of VAT charged Goods and relevant tax invoices must be presented to a Customs Official and the VAT Refund Administrator (VRA) for inspection. Inspection must be evidenced by an endorsement on the tax invoice by a Customs Official and employee of the VRA. If leaving the country

Using North American credit cards in Namibia Credit cards are useful in major cities and luxury accommodation facilities but may not be accepted in smaller establishments and shops in small towns, and never at street markets or rural craft centers. International Visa and MasterCard are generally accepted and Diners Club, American Express mostly in large shops and big establishments. Keep the exchange rate in mind and also the fact that additional fees will be charged for using the facilities. Tipping Tipping for exceptional service is normal, but not required by law. It is recommended to tip about 10% of the bill when eating out, but when meals are included in the travel package, it is not necessary to tip. Guides should be tipped a minimum of N$20 per day for their services, while drivers should be tipped separately, about N$10 per day. Car guards should be tipped with between N$2 and N$5.

Please keep in mind that public service officials should never be tipped, as this could be perceived as bribery and can get your client and the official in serious trouble.

ties that might bring them in direct contact with animals that might carry rabies. • Namibia is not a country with a risk of yellow fever. A yellow fever vaccination is only needed when traveling through a country with a risk of yellow fever virus transmission. (Information obtained from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Internet access The majority of accommodation facilities have internet access available to their guests, while some restaurants and coffee shops have wifi. Internet cafes are also found in all major towns.

Wheelchair Accessibility Wheelchairs are barely ever accommodated on public transport, but tour operators do cater for disabled travelers. Many accommodation facilities have specially adapted rooms and ramps for wheelchairs. Be sure to mention any special needs when booking a tour.

Using a North American phone in Namibia North Americans can use their phones in Namibia if it is set to roaming. Alternatively, American phones can be used with a Namibian SIM card, if the phone is not locked. This information can be obtained from the respective network providers and mobile phone distributors in the country of residence.

Health care facilities Namibia currently has one doctor per 3 000 people, one of the best doctor/ patient ratios in Africa. All major centres have state-run hospitals. In Windhoek there are four privately run hospitals and two state hospitals, all with fully equipped and maintained intensive-care units. Qualifications of medical practitioners measure up to international standards. All specialist fields are available in Windhoek, where 90% of emergency cases can be treated.

Getting a phone in Namibia Mobile phones and sim cards are easily obtainable in most major stores in the bigger towns. However, international pressure because of terrorism and criminality may result in stricter requirements for “pay as you go” mobile connectivity. Vaccinations Be sure that your routine vaccinations are up to date before embarking on any trip. No vaccinations are necessary when traveling to Namibia, but the following are recommended: • Hepatitis A (Namibia falls in an area with high levels of Hepatitis A infections.) • Hepatitis B • Typhoid vaccinations (especially when planning to visit rural areas or villages where exposure might occur through food or water) • Polio vaccinations are recommended for adult travelers who have received a primary series with either inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) or oral polio vaccine (OPV). They should receive another dose of IPV before departure. • A rabies vaccination for those planning to spend a lot of time in the outdoors, especially in rural areas, and for travelers involved in activi-

Hospitals: There are state hospitals in virtually all Namibia’s major towns. In smaller towns, villages and rural settlements, the MHSS operates well-equipped clinics or health-care centers with professionally trained medical staff. Windhoek has four private hospitals: Medi-Clinic in the Eros suburb, the Roman Catholic Hospital in the centre of town, the Rhino Park Private Hospital, accessible from the northern highway, and the Paramount Health Care Centre, also in Eros. Major private hospitals outside Windhoek include the Cottage Medi-Clinic in Swakopmund, the Medi-Clinic Private Hospital in Otjiwarongo, the Tsumeb Private Hospital in Tsumeb, the Welwitschia Hospital in Walvis Bay, and the Ongwediva Medipark in Ongwediva.

Rescue facilities International SOS Namibia provides an infrastructure to assist in all forms of medical emergencies, including emergency evacuation services that extend to the furthest corners of Namibia. It is the leading 24-hour alarm centre and Emergency Medical Service provider in the country, and is supported by a well-developed charter industry, countless landing strips and a well-maintained road network. The most important feature of Namibia’s ISOS is the fact that with two fully equipped ambulance aircraft based in Windhoek, it is possible to reach even the remotest parts of the country in a very short period of time. As a backup to the Namibian operation, ISOS South Africa offers a 24-hour Alarm Centre with dedicated doctors, as well as the only two air ambulances staffed with doctors in Africa.

Encourage anyone travelling north of Windhoek to take adequate precautions, whether camping under the stars or sleeping under a roof. To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, we recommend the following precautions: • Sleep under a mosquito net at night, especially between 20:00 and 06:00 hours. Nets treated with insecticides that are harmless to humans will further increase protection. • If possible, avoid going outside between dusk and dawn. • Wear long sleeves and long trousers. Avoid wearing dark colours, which attract mosquitoes. • Burn coils and pellets containing the insect repellent pyrethrum. • Apply mosquito repellents to exposed skin and clothing. Repellents containing diethyl toluamide (deet) or dimethyl phthalate are the best. • Using insecticide sprays is effective to prevent entry of mosquitoes into rooms if doors and windows are not screened. • It’s better still to sleep in rooms of which the windows and doors are screened with mosquito netting. If not, keep the windows and doors closed.

E- MED Rescue 24, another medical emergency evacuation and ambulance facility, was launched in the capital in 2004. The company is a black economic empowerment (BEE) company formed by an evacuation service alliance between Netcare 911 from South Africa, Namhealth and the Prosperity Group. The company has established a 24-hour, 7-day operation call centre, an ambulance and paramedical services infrastructure and a flight evacuation service, and has partnered with other evacuation services in the region and with World Wide Travel Evacuation to provide services to clients and members anywhere in Africa and the world. Westair Wings Charters is the operator of the E-MED Rescue 24 aircraft, strengthening emergency air evacuations not only within Namibia, but also to other countries such as South Africa. Since weather conditions are suitable for safe flying most of the time, air evacuation is a highly reliable service.

Prophylactics are drugs that prevent malaria. These should be used in addition to the personal protection measures mentioned above. Prophylactics should be taken at least 24 to 48 hours before visiting the malaria-prone areas, and treatment should be continued for five to seven days after leaving the area, or as prescribed.

Water Tap water is generally safe for consumption, but bottled water is available in all grocery stores.

People with drug allergies, chronic illnesses or taking other drugs or vaccines are advised to consult their doctor before starting prophylactics. Should any of the symptoms of malaria, such as fever, rigours (shaking), headaches, backache, diarrhoea and/or vomiting and malaise be experienced, it is extremely important to report to the nearest health facility as soon as possible for proper diagnosis (a blood test) and prompt treatment.

Malaria During the rainy season (January through May), malaria is prevalent mainly in the north of the country. Malaria is transmitted to people by the bite of a mosquito, usually after dark. Tourists can help reduce the risk of malaria by using personal protection measures and prophylactics. Malaria can be a serious and fatal disease if not treated properly

If any flu-like symptoms are experienced on the way home, seek immediate medical attention and inform your doctor that you have recently visited a malaria-prone area. 79

Language While English is the official language in Namibia, many other languages are spoken. They can be divided into three categories: the Bantu languages spoken by the Owambo, Herero, Kavango, Caprivians and Tswana; the Indo-Germanic languages of Afrikaans, German and English; and the Khoesan languages spoken by the San/Bushmen, Nama and Damara. In most parts of Namibia, you will not experience a language barrier. Even in rural areas, school kids will be able to interpret. Key Phrases Key phrases in some of the national languages: Afrikaans: Goeie m么re Hoe gaan dit? Goed, dankie. Asseblief Dankie Totsiens

Good morning How are you? Fine, thanks. Please Thank you Goodbye

Batswana: Dumela O kae? Ke a leboga Sala sentle

Hello How are you? Thank you Goodbye

Caprivi: Ma lumele sha! Ni itumezi Na lapela Mu siale hande

I greet you! Thank you Please Goodbye

Herero/Ovahimba: Perivi? Nawa Okuhepa Kara nawa

Are you well? Yes, well Thank you Goodbye

Kavango: Morokeni! Na pandura

Hello! Thank you

Nama/Damara: Matisa? Ayo Moro Gaiseha

How are you? Thank you Good morning Goodbye

Owambo: Wa lelepo nawa? Eee! Nawa! Iyaloo Kalapa nawa

Did you sleep well? Yes! Well! Thank you Goodbye

San: Am thai? Mem ari gu Mem tlabe

How are you? I am thirsty I am hungry

Slang Some slang words to bring you closer to the locals. • Aweh! - said in excitement. The word has many meanings or uses: "hello", "goodbye", "yes" • babbelas - hangover • bakkie - a pick-up truck • bill - the cheque, asked for after a great meal • biltong – dried and seasoned meat, a very popular snack • braai - a barbecue. Braaiing is a national past time and the turning of the meat whilst holding a beer in the other hand is taken very seriously • bra/bru/boet - male friend • chop – a piece of meat usually reserved for the braai • dorp - small town • droë wors – dried sausage, similar to biltong • eish! - an interjection expressing resignation • isit - said as a question in response to a statement. Meaning 'really'? or 'is that so?' • ja - yes • jol - to have fun, to party • just now/now, now - means anytime within the next 50 years other than right this moment • kapana – traditionally barbequed meat, usually sold in the townships or on the side of the roads • koppie - a small hill, but not yet a mountain • lapa - the thatched outdoor shelter used for shade from the African sun or to braai underneath when the weather’s bad. • lekker - nice, good, great, tasty, awesome • meme – respectful name for a female • pap - traditional maize porridge • plaas - farm

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potjie - a three-legged cast iron pot that is used to cook stews over the fire robot – a traffic light shebeen - an informal bar that's open 24 hours sies - expression of disgust, disappointment, annoyance sisi/sister – female friend smiley – a goat’s or sheep’s head, cooked and ready for consumption sosatie – a selection of meats and vegetables on a stick, also reserved for the braai tate – respectful name for a male vetkoekie – fried bread dough, usually sold with kapana wors - spicy sausage for accompanying the chop on the braai yoh - an expression of surprise

Vegetarians Namibia is a meat-eating country! But restaurants and accommodation facilities cater for vegetarians. It is best is to inform the hotel or restaurant or tour operator in advance or any special dietary requirements.

Many accommodation facilities cater for kids, but many also don’t, so it is advisable to check this when making a booking. Some guest farms have tame animals like meerkats that children can pet and play with, while other places offer kids the opportunity to come into contact with wild animals like cheetahs and lions. Depending on the age of the kids, adventure activities like quad biking, dune boarding and dolphin watching can also be a lot of fun.

Electrical current The electrical current in Namibia is 220 volts, 50 cycles. You will need a transformer to use American appliances such as hair dryers or battery chargers, but computers are equipped to handle the change in voltage. Namibian outlets commonly use the three-pronged plug (also known as the South African plug). Adapters can be bought in Windhoek and other major towns.

Namibia for Mature Adventurers Namibia is a popular destination for mature travelers who can part-take in the majority of adventure activities. It is advisable to tell your operator or hotel about any health problems or dietary restrictions. Luxury hiking is a popular option, while game watching, ocean cruises and ballooning are more options.

Government Namibia is ruled by a Multiparty Parliament and has a democratic constitution that is highly regarded by the international community. The president (currently His Excellency Hifikepunye Pohamba) is voted in directly by the electorate for a five-year term and is supported by the Prime Minister, (currently the Right Honourable Nahas Angula) and Cabinet. Parliament is comprised of two houses; one is elected directly and the other indirectly by the country’s regions. The Government’s policy of national reconciliation and unity embraces the concepts of tolerance, respect for differing political views, and racial and ethnic harmony. The Constitution provides for the division of power between the executive, legislature and judiciary.

Reading List Below is a list of suggested books and movies on Namibia Skeleton Coast, a coffee table book by renowned nature photographer and author Amy Schoeman. Birds of Namibia – A photographic journey, by Pompie Burger Namib – Secrets of a desert uncovered, by scientists Mary Seely and John Pallett Etosha – Celebrating a hundred years of conservation An Arid Eden – A personal account of conservation in the Kaokoveld, by Garth Owen-Smith A History of Namibia – from the beginning to 1990, by Marion Wallace, John Kinahan The Sheltering Desert, a personal account of surviving in the desert, by Henno Martin Healing Makes Our Hearts Happy, a book on the Ju/’hoansi-San of the Kalahari Desert, by Richard Katz Cookbooks: My hungry Heart – Notes from a Namibian kitchen, a award-wining cookbook by local food fundi Antoinette de Chavonnes Vrugt Etosha, a film by Paul van Schalkwyk Children’s reading: Silver, Jackal of the Namib, by Pieter Pieterse

In Namibia's lower chamber of parliament, the National Assembly, the following nine parties are represented: South West Africa People’s Organization (54, plus 6 non-voting members), Rally for Democracy and Progress (8), Congress of Democrats (1), Democratic Turnhalle Alliance (2), United Democratic Front (2), National Unity Democratic Organisation (2), Republican Party (1), All People’s Party (1), South West Africa National Union (1). Namibia with Kids Namibia can be an intriguing place for children with lots to see and do, but parents need to keep in mind that destinations can be quite far apart and children might get bored or frustrated on the road, so make sure they have enough to keep them busy. It is also a good idea to stop frequently to stretch the legs and admire the natural surroundings.

Weather â&#x20AC;&#x201C; What to Pack The clothes youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll pack will depend on the time of year youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning to visit. Summers can be quite hot, while winters are cooler (Remember that the seasons are reversed from North America!) Nighttime temperatures in winter can get very low, especially in the desert areas and it is best to pack a set or two of proper warm clothing. Dress in Namibia tends to be casual and T-shirts and shorts are popular wear. For evenings around the fire, even during summer, it is recommended to pack a fleece top or sweater. By the coast, it can be windy and foggy no matter what time of the year. During summer time, a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved cotton shirt, high SPF sunscreen and sunglasses are vital. Lightweight hiking shoes are recommended when planning to explore the natural surroundings. When visiting during the rainy season (November to March) it is also recommended to pack some waterproof items, including a jacket and shoes.

ACTIVITIES IN NAMIBIA Endless horizons, clear skies and a population density that ranks among the lowest in the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it all combines to give visitors a true sense of freedom. This is part of what makes Namibia the quintessential African vacation. Whether your interest is in wildlife, landscape, adventure, people, culture â&#x20AC;&#x201C; your days here will be filled with plenty of sunshine, beautiful sights and unforgettable experiences found nowhere else on earth. Only in Namibia.

Activities

coastline in the world – the Skeleton Coast. The race usually takes place in April.

4x4 trails With landscapes ranging from the Kalahari in the east, the Namib in the west and the desolate expanses of the Kaokoveld in the north-west, there are numerous opportunities in Namibia to explore off-the-beaten-track destinations by 4x4 vehicle.

Lucky Star Marathon: The marathon takes place every year in October between the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Through this race, the organizers aim to promote community involvement and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle among Namibia’s youth. Consequently significant focus is placed on involving schools across the country.

Adventure Races Adventure racing, often in the form of extreme running, is extremely popular in Namibia. Races vary in length, challenge and region – but are generally for adventurous tourists looking to push their physical limits. Below is a list of top adventure races:

Old Mutual Victory Race Series: This race is run in four different legs in categories of either 5km or 21 km, in Oshakati, Swakopmund, Keetmanshoop and Windhoek

The Rock: Spitzkoppe Run and Bike Challenge is a foot-andcycle race around the Spitzkoppe in the Namib held each year in September. There are various categories including half-marthon running, walking and cycling 25 and 70km. The race celebrates the natural beauty of the Spitzkoppe and surroundings and proceeds go to the the local community .

Aussenkehr Desert Extreme Trail Run: This three day 100 km desert run takes runners along the banks of the Orange River, into the mountain country of Namibia, across the harsh plateaus and through ancient and enchanting canyons. It is usually held from the end of June to the beginning of July. Fish River Marathon and Cycle: Participants can choose between a 104 km cycle, 54 km cycle, 42.2 km marathon, half marathon, 10 km fun walk, 30 km fun horse ride, or a 3 km kiddies and parent fun walk. Through the marathon, runners can qualify for the Two Oceans and Comrades marathons in South Africa. It commences from the Keetmanshoop 1Stop Petrol Station and is usually held in October.

100km of Namib Desert: Is a century face (100 km) that can subject runners to extreme conditions such as sandstorms, strong winds, blistering heat during the day and freezing temperatures at night. It takes place during December in the Sossusvlei area. Namib Desert Challenge: Regarded as one of the toughest footraces on earth, this race covers 228 km of inhospitable, desert terrain. It is held in the Sossusvlei area, and includes five stages of high-endurance ultra running, with competitors carrying their own survival kit and food. The competition takes place in March and can only host 80 participants.

Fish River Challenge: Runners are expected to support themselves throughout a 100 km run in 24 hours. The race begins at the top of the Fish River Canyon and finishes at the Ai-Ais hotsprings. It usually takes place in August.

Namibian 24-hour Ultra Marathon: The race is over 126 km, starting at the foot of the Brandberg and finishing at Jakkalsputz at the coast, crossing large areas of the most hostile desert

Angling

Thousands of anglers head for the coast each year in search of the ‘big one’. Angling species include the sought-after kabeljou (kob),

galjoen, blacktail (dassie) and West Coast steenbras. While despised by some anglers, the sea barbell is considered by gourmets to be a delicacy when smoked.

Another popular spot is Von Bach Dam just south of Okahandja, accessible from the B1. Here, anglers can cast for large-mouth bass, blue kurper, small-mouth yellowfish, carp and barbel. Also in the central region is the Friedenau Dam, a popular venue for anglers from Windhoek, while the Naute Dam in the south is another option.

November to March is generally the most rewarding time for angling, due to warmer water conditions. Angling destinations along the central Namibian coast include the area between Paaltjies and the northern boundary of Sandwich Harbour, and the coastal strip between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. Especially popular is the newly proclaimed Dorob Nationbal Park, which extends from just north of Swakopmund for 200 km to the Ugab River. Familiar angling spots include Mile 8, Mile 14 Beach Resort, Die Drom north of Wlotzkasbaken, Bennie se Rooi Lorrie, Jakkalsputz, Henties Bay, Sarah se Gat, Mile 72 and Mile 108. Still further north, in the Skeleton Coast Park, are Torra Bay and Terrace Bay.

The Zambezi River, in the far northeast of the country, is home to some 40 angling species, including the rapacious tiger fish. Specimens weighing 6.5 kg and upwards are not uncommon. June to December, when the river subsides, is generally considered the best season. Other popular angling species include redbreast, greenhead and three-spot tilapia, humpback largemouth, nembwe and pink happy. Ballooning Hot-air ballooning is like a magic carpet ride. There is no turbulence, as the balloon travels at the current wind speed. A good suggestion for those with a passion for photography. A balloon flight over the Twyfelfontein Conservancy provides a bird’s-eye view over Damaraland desert scenery, which includes a unique variety of desert flora and fauna and fascinating geological formations. At Swakopmund an early-morning balloon flight provides the experience of the contrast of the desert with the Atlantic Ocean as the balloon drifts along the coast.

Shark angling Shark angling is practiced throughout the year, with the months between November and May being the best for coppershark. Also known as the bronzy, the coppershark reaches weights of between 15–190 kg. A strong fighter, it is an excellent sport fish. Smaller sharks include the cowshark, smooth hound shark and spotted gully shark, also known as spotty. Shark-angling excursions are offered by tour operators in Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Henties Bay. Namibia follows a national action plan to conserve shark species, under which all sharks should be returned to the sea live and unharmed.

Birding With habitats ranging from the Namib dunes, coastal wetlands and savannahs to the floodplains and waterways of Kavango and Caprivi, Namibia’s birding checklist boasts 676 of Southern Africa's 887 species. Heading the list of ‘megaticks’ are Namibia’s 15 endemic and near-endemic species. Among these are Rüppell’s korhaan, Hartlaub’s spurfowl, Rüppell’s parrot, Violet wood-hoopoe, Carp’s tit, Monteiro’s hornbill, Herero chat, Damara hornbill (newly classified) and the white-tailed shrike. The most rewarding birding destination is the north-eastern region

Freshwater angling Namibia’s dams in the interior offer several options for freshwater angling, with the Hardap Dam, easily accessible from the B1, 15 km north of Mariental, heading the list. The dam is stocked with Mozambique tilapia, small-mouth yellowfish, Orange River mudfish, sharptooth catfish, moggel and common carp.

Camping Namibia is a camper’s paradise. There are a medley of sights, smells, tastes and sounds to be experienced and enjoyed through camping in Namibia – from the harsh, barren, stony plains around the Fish River Canyon, past the vast red dunes of Sossusvlei, along the wind-swept shores of the cold Atlantic Ocean to the seemingly endless plains and rocky mountains of Damaraland and the humid forests on the banks of the Zambezi River in Caprivi. Each corner holds a secret treasure of its own. There is a wide choice of sites all over Namibia for seasoned campers or nervous novices on their first camping holiday, from luxury campsites under shady trees and grassy lawns, to wild places under a camel-thorn tree in a sandy riverbed.

of the country. Of the more than 450 species recorded here to date, several have a limited distribution elsewhere in Southern Africa, including Okavango ‘specials’ such as the slaty egret, swamp boubou, chirping cisticola and greater swamp-warbler. Noteworthy species occurring along the Okavango and Zambezi rivers include the rock pratincole, African skimmer and long-toed lapwing. Birding hotspots in the north-east are the Bwabwata National Park, Impalila Island (400+ species), the Mudumu and Mamili national parks, Katima Mulilo and the Zambezi River, and the western bank of the Kwando River. The wetlands of Walvis Bay and Sandwich Harbour rank among the most important coastal wetlands in Africa and make for optimal birding. Nearly a quarter of Namibia’s birds are Palaearctic or intraAfrican migrants. The coastal flats are an important breeding ground of the endangered Damara tern, while the gravel flats of the pre-Namib are home to Gray’s lark and in the dune areas further south, the dune lark, Namibia’s only true endemic bird species. When Avis Dam on Windhoek’s outskirts holds water, quality birding can be enjoyed close to the capital. Species of interest include the white-tailed shrike, Monteiro’s hornbill and the rockrunner. Other well-known birding destinations in Namibia are the Waterberg Plateau Park, Etosha National Park and the Kunene River environs (the latter especially for ‘specials’ such as the Cinderella waxbill, rufous-tailed palm-thrush and bare-cheeked babbler).

In recent years, there has been a growth in preference for community campsites. These campsites, especially in the northwest and north-east of the country, have stylishly natural designs, and have been built with material from the area such as ‘latte’ (sapling poles), reeds and thatch, with some being constructed creatively in boulder alcoves or on riverbanks. The majority has flush toilets and hot water, provided either by solar panels or the remarkably efficient wood-burning ‘donkeys’, and a shaded lapa area or kitchen counter with sink and wooden railway-sleeper counter tops. Others, in the watery north, have decks overlooking the river. Activities at the community campsites depend on their location. Some are near scenery and parks which others are near living museums and homesteads.

Camel rides: An entirely new way to explore the spectacular wilderness areas of Damaraland is on the back of a camel. Camels Namibia conducts camel safaris on a five-day/six night basis from Twyfelfontein Country Lodge, ending at Ugab Rhino Camp. The 105-kilometre camel expedition is supported by 4x4 vehicles, while riders travel only with a light daypack and explore the area with knowledgeable guides. A limited number of five adventure trekkers can be accommodated per trip, so each trek is small and sociable.

This is an example of responsible tourism as the proceeds for the community campsites return to the communities, conservancies or local craftsmen. Canoeing, Kayaking, Rafting Although Namibia is mostly an arid region, there are plenty of reservoirs and rivers suitable for canoeing and rafting. Canoeing is also offered by lodges on the banks of the Orange, Kunene and Okavango rivers 87

clude life jackets and helmets.

Down the Orange Felix Unite River Adventures offers four-day and six-day canoe trips down the Orange, by all accounts the perfect activity to feed the soul:

The annual Oewona Namibia River Challenge raises money for Oewona (the Organization for the Empowerment of Widows/ Widowers and Orphans of HIV-AIDS in Namibia). Participant cross the border and head some 60 kilometers into Angola before turning around to tackle the grueling five-day challenge down the Okavango River.

Hot watery days are spent cruising with the current, or paddling against an unexpected headwind, interspersed with regular dips. Unlike most great African rivers, there is nothing harmful lurking in the Orange, although you might be startled by loud splashing sounds caused by huge but harmless barbels.

Catamaran Coastal tour operators like Catamaran Charters and Sun Sail Charters conducts tours on catamarans, where the chances of encountering dolphins, whales, turtles, seals and mola molas (sunfish) make the search for the Marine Big 5 an adventurous excursion. Tours depart from the Walvis Bay Yacht Club and continue on their route into the Bay Area, where it moves alongside the oyster platforms.

On the Kunene Only the lucky few go on the 10-day Felix Unite Rio Kunene Safari as it runs just once or twice a year, with a minimum of 16 people. Setting out from Windhoek, the expedition starts with a drive through the Etosha National Park, then proceeds to the far north where the Kunene forms a border with Angola.

Caving

Braving the thundering white-water rapids for a swim is not encouraged, as they are powerful and there are crocodiles around. On the last evening, camp is pitched on the banks of the Kunene within hearing distance of the magnificent Epupa Falls, cascading down a sheer drop of 40 meters. Epupa Camp also offers the opportunity for river rafting on the Kunene as a completely new way to experience the river and surrounding environment. On the Okavango The Okavango River offers a different and very localized form of canoeing. Several lodges along the banks offer canoeists trips of varying lengths, giving them the opportunity to see life on the river from up close – people washing clothes, bathing and fishing and children playing, locals passing by on a mukoro (a traditional dugout canoe), and plenty of hippos, crocodiles and birds. All in all canoeing down the Okavango is an enjoyable experience with only shallow and easily manageable rapids – even the hippos allow you to pass without a fuss, and the crocodiles are no bigger than adult monitor lizards. Most of the lodges supply rafting kits, which in88

Over 120 caves have been registered in Namibia, the various environments providing plenty of adrenaline-inducing and educative experiences. The longest and only ‘tourist’ (because of on-site facilities) cave in Namibia is Arnhem Cave, with slightly over 4 800 meters total passage length and intersect groundwater. At one time the cave contained massive deposits of bat guano that were extracted on a large scale. The cave is very dusty and dry, with almost no secondary cave formations. Visitors are allowed only torches or cave lamps to negotiate Arnhem's large chambers and winding passages. The lack of development causes minimal disturbance of the extensive and diverse bat population, which also ensures the conservation of several unique invertebrate species. Six species of bats have been recorded at Arnhem, including the giant leaf-nosed bat. Overnight accommodation is available at the site. A national monument and the third largest in Namibia, the Gaub Cave in the Otavi Mountains can be visited on the Ghaub Guest Farm, from where tours are organised with a designated guide, minor’s lamp and safety helmet. The Gaub cave is 38 m in depth with 2.5 km of chambers and passageways. Petrified waterfalls, organ pipes, rock curtains and interesting crystal growths are some of the

features to be seen. Dragon’s Breath, near Tsumeb, is another well-known cave, hosting the world’s largest underground lake. Cave diving can be done here, but it’s only accessible for professional and well-equipped cavers. Another well-visited cave of a totally different nature is Phillip’s Cave in the Erongo Mountains north of Karibib. Containing a famous rock painting of a white elephant and many others, it is surrounded by an evocative rock formation, called Bull’s Party, due to its semblance to a group of conferring bovines. Permission from the landowners is required to visit other caves in Namibia, with visits to certain caves requiring official permits. Visitors are recommended to wear industrial dust masks when visiting caves with thick deposits of dry bat guano. Since bats are of great ecological importance, visitors are asked not to disturb them, particularly during the wet season (January–April) when bats are breeding. Cave disease (histoplasmosis) has not been recorded from any Namibian caves. Prospective visitors, particularly if they come from countries with histoplasmosis, or visit Namibia after caving in such countries, are therefore requested to ensure that all their equipment is cleaned and sanitised before entering Namibia. Such simple precautions may keep Namibian caves uninfected and safe for casual visitors.

high summer temperatures, climbing is best done between April and September. Community Based Tourism With good facilities, attractive construction, well-selected sites and luxuries such as hot water, water taps and flush toilets, community camping can be quite luxurious. Rather, amenities have been whittled down to the necessities, providing all you need for a positive and pleasurable experience. The outdoors does the rest. Starlight, animal and insect sounds, moonshine and beautiful landscapes provide the settings for good experiences and great accommodation at affordable rates. See the section on Camping for more information Craft initiatives give the local craftsmen outlets for their goods, ranging from baskets that are works of art in themselves to attractive hand-made paper products. They also give visitors to the country an opportunity to buy authentic Namibian crafts. Information offices provide useful guidelines about the areas, activities, attractions and recommended guided trips. The proceeds for the community endeavors and establishments return to the communities, conservancies or local craftsmen, rather than private enterprises, thus directly benefiting the people of Namibia.

Climbing Rising abruptly above the Namib plains, the Spitzkoppe is Namibia’s top rock-climbing destination. Since the first successful ascent in 1946, there have been more than 500 ascents to the 1 728 m-high summit. There are several sport-climbing routes that have been secured with bolts. Some 44 sport-climbing routes, ranging from South African grades 10 to 27, have been opened in the Spitzkoppe area. The Erongo Mountains also offer excellent rockclimbing challenges, such as Omandumba in the western Erongos, offering 30 traditional routes up to the South African grade 20, as well as 20 sport-climbing routes, ranging from SA grades 16 to 23. A selection of climbing routes is available at Aussenkehr in the south, about 50 km west of the Noordoewer border crossing. With

Diving Diving off the coast With sea temperatures ranging between 8˚C and 18˚C and severely restricted visibility, diving off the Namib coast presents a formidable challenge, even to experienced divers. A daunting, but possible area for diving is the stretch of coast between Lüderitz and Spencer Bay, where conditions are best from December to May when visibility ranges between 3–10 meters. Cave diving The caves and sinkholes in Namibia that are suitable for diving are all at an altitude of more than 1 450 meters above sea level and

have depths ranging from 30 to 130 meters. The diving is therefore technically advanced, for which special skills and experience are required. The caves are classified as type III caves/sinkholes by the World Underwater Federation CMAS, and training is done with altitude and CMAS standards in mind. Any other qualifications are closely scrutinized and evaluated on an individual basis, always with at least one qualified CMAS/NUF instructor on hand during dives. Best known for diving and easily accessible is Lake Otjikoto, northwest of Tsumeb, which was used as a dumping ground for field guns and ammunition by German troops retreating from South African forces during World War I. Otjikoto is home to the endemic Otjikoto tilapia, a species that also occurs in Lake Guinas. The best time to dive in Otjikoto is from April to October, outside the rainy season and when temperatures are suitable for camping. For those with cave-diving experience, Dragon’s Breath Cave on Harasib farm, northwest of Grootfontein, offers the opportunity to dive in the largest subterranean lake in the world. In 2011, two Namibian divers and their team broke the Dragon’s Breath record by diving to a depth of 105 meters. On the same farm is another cave named Harasib with a drop of 140 meters to water level, followed by a water depth of 80 metres. The 130-metre-deep Lake Guinas is on a farm that lies northwest of Otjikoto. Temperatures in the caves range from 20–22ºC. To dive in lakes like Harasib, Guinas and Dragon’s Breath, special qualifications and experience including abseiling techniques are required. To rig and de-rig these caves for diving, requires at least a week of work by a team of six people, and then a diver can do only two dives a day, whilst abseiling with full equipment. This in itself creates a logistical problem when time is of the essence. Notice should be given at least three months in advance by divers so that the appropriate arrangements can be made.

coast and sightings are 99% successful, while the larger Atlantic bottlenose and dusky dolphins are seen less often. In season, larger mammals like the southern right and humpback whales may be spotted, and with a bit of luck, the mighty killer whales (orcas). Rare sightings of sunfish (mola mola) and leatherback turtles also keep guests on the lookout. Walvis Bay-based Mola Mola Safaris has been conducting dolphin cruises for many years. The company has a high success rate in tracking down the dolphins and giving clients close-up views of Cape fur seals. Levo Tours, also based in Walvis Bay, takes guests on dolphin and seal tours, which last for approximately four hours. A variety of birds such as pelicans, flamingos and cormorants can be seen and wild seals are fed by hand on the ski-boat. Fresh oysters, champagne and snacks are enjoyed at the seal colony where dolphins join the fun around the boat. Another way to experience the marine life around Pelican Point and Walvis Bay is through Catamaran Charters. Conducted on one of three catamarans, the chances of encountering dolphins, whales, turtles, seals and mola molas (sunfish) make the search for the Marine Big 5 an adventurous excursion. Dune & Sandboarding Buffeted by the predominantly southwest winds, the slopes and slipfaces of the dunes between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are ideal for sand and dune boarding. With an altitude of up to 120 meters, sand boarders can accelerate to speeds of up to 80 km/h on the high dunes. Depending on individual skills and balance, sand boarding can be done either by lying down, sitting, or standing on the board. Numerous operators provide boarding activities, lessons or equipment for hire. Individuals who have no previous experience are advised to use a guided activity operator, as boarding, like any other adventure activity, has an element of risk. Endurance Sports See also “Adventure Races” There are many endurance sports in Namibia, ranging from horse riding, cycling and footraces. The beauty of endurance sport is the challenge, and with Namibia, a country dominated by the harshest

Dolphin Cruises The cold Atlantic waters off the Namib coast harbor a wealth of marine life, including two dolphin species and a large colony of Cape fur seals resident at Pelican Point. The 1.3-metre-long Heaviside’s dolphin is endemic to the west 90

of conditions, there is none greater. See Adventure Races for more information on footraces, Mountain Biking section for more information on cycle races and visit the Namibia Endurance Ride Association (www.namibiaendurance.org) website for more information on horse rides.

golf clubs, allowing a maximum of 15 kg of golfing equipment to be checked through with no charge. Golf courses can also be found in Gobabis, Okahandja, Oshakati, Lüderitz, Tsumeb, Otjiwarongo, Keetmanshoop, Mariental, Oranjemund and Henties Bay. Geology Namibia´s varied geology encompasses rocks of the Archaen to Phanerozoic age, thus covering more than 2600 million years of earth history. Nearly half of the country’s surface area is bedrock exposure, while young surficial deposits of the Kalahari and Namib Deserts cover the remainder.

Endurance sports are offered throughout the country. Flying

Rostock Ritz Fly-in In 2011 the Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge hosted its 7th annual fly-in competition, sponsored by West Air Maintenance and hosted by Wolfgang Kühhirt, owner of Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge and also an active pilot. The event was once again a huge success supervised by four air traffic controllers with a well-planned navigational route and some great spot landings. A total of 17 aircraft attended the event, themed the Living Desert, due to the heavy rains and unusually green desert Namibia experienced in 2011. The event usually takes place in June and is attended mostly by Namibian and South African flying enthusiasts. Flight for the Plight Air Show In the spring of every other year the Rare and Endangered Species Trust (REST) hosts the day-long Flight for the Plight of the Cape Vulture Air Show, with fly-ins by various power planes and helicopters, aeronautical displays and competitions, a Namibian Air Force flyover and parachutists jumping from a plane. The show, which is aimed at raising awareness for the plight of the Cape vulture, threatened with extinction from Namibian skies, usually takes place from a base near Otjiwarongo, and is planned again for 2012.

Some companies offer tours specialized in Namibia’s geology. Hiking

Namibia offers a wide variety of walks, overnight hiking trails and guided wilderness trails for those wanting to explore the countryside on foot. Keep in mind that the Namib Desert is an arid environment and often extremely hot with no trees to provide shade. Aus and surroundings Named after the wild horses of the Namib that roam the plains to the west of Klein-Aus Vista, the Desert Horse Hiking Trail comprises several hiking routes that traverse the rugged Aus Mountains located in the Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park to view the wild horses that roam the plains to the west of Klein-Aus Vista. Along the way, hikers can explore World War I entrenchments, interesting and rare succulents and expansive fields of desert flora (July– September). Most captivating of all is the endless view overlooking the Namib Desert. The five different hiking trails are the Sunset Walk (1 hour, easy), Schutztruppe Trail (3 hours, easy), Mountain Trail (2 hours, easy), Geister Trail (4 hours, for experienced hikers) and Eagle Trail (5 hours, for experienced hikers), all indicated with coloured arrows and looping back to the starting point. There are also two Historical Trails (either 1 hour, or 2-3 hours) that starts at the Aus Information Centre and takes hikers past World War 1 trenches, shelters, canon stands, and a cave. The best time for hiking is during the winter (April– October), and since this is a winter-

Golfing European golfers should consider coming to Namibia after September, following the European golfing season. Packages include a Namibian golfing safari coupled with a golfing escape in Cape Town, culminating in a golf/sightseeing trip to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Because of the direct flights to Walvis Bay from Cape Town, many South Africans enjoy playing the salt-surface golf course at Walvis Bay. Air Namibia accommodates passengers who bring along their

rainfall area, rain gear and sufficient warm clothing are essential.

ment and food for the duration of the hike. Well worn-in boots with good ankle support are essential. The Fish River Lodge offers a luxury hike of 5 days from April to October, with the first and last night spent at the lodge. Hikers carry only their lunch and water supply for the day – a back-up vehicle transports the tents and other luggage. Camps are set up for the hikers, offering sundowners, dinner and breakfast. This hike offers excellent views of the canyon. For the very fit a day hike into the canyon may also be available (subject to demand) covering a distance of approximately 30km.

From Henties Bay The unmarked 18-km Jakkalsputz Walking Trail starts at the southern end of Henties Bay from the Gallows and ends at Jakkalsputz. It is best done at low tide when the rock pools are visible. For the more energetic there are the 20-km and 70-km Omaruru River Walking Trails, both quite strenuous and best done on a cool day when it is overcast. The 20-km trail proceeds along the beach northwards to the Omaruru River mouth, up along the river and back to Henties Bay across the desert plains. The 70-km option is unmarked and water must be taken along. Hikers proceed along the Omaruru River to the big fig tree or Omdel Dam, where they camp for the night. They can return the same way or along a small track running from the dam wall in a northerly direction towards the C35 (14 km) and along the C35 to Henties Bay (27 km).

Namib-Naukluft Park and surroundings The Namib-Naukluft Park can be explored along several interesting walks and an overnight trail. In the Naukluft section of the park are two rewarding day hikes, the 10-km Olive Trail and the more demanding Waterkloof Trail, which covers 17 km and takes between 6–7 hours to complete. The Namib section of the park offers the Rock Sculpture Trail (up to three hours), and the Tinkas Nature Walk (4–5 hours). A medical certificate, issued within 40 days of the starting date, must be handed in at commencement of the trail. Also called the Eight Day Trail, the 120-km Namib-Naukluft Hiking Trail is regarded by seasoned hikers as one of Africa’s toughest hiking challenges. It has eight-, four- and two-day options, and some sections have to be negotiated by holding on to chains and might prove difficult for hikers with a fear of heights. Routes are along dry riverbeds (alive with almost 200 bird species, including the rosy-faced lovebird), up mountainous and winding zebra paths and offer panoramic vistas of the Naukluft spreading to infinity. Highlights include the spectacular Ubisis Kloof; the Kudu Plains; the beautiful Zebra Ravine carved by the Tsams River; the Euphorbia Ravine; the Quiver Tree Ridge; the rosy-coloured Arbeid Adelt Valley where rose quartz abounds; Tufa Tavern, a huge cave next to an enormous fig tree; and at 1 980 metres, the highest point on the trail, Bakenkop. Bookings are made only for the period between 1 March and the third Friday in October and group sizes must number from three to 12. The Quiver Tree Gorge Trail is offered by BüllsPort Guest Farm for hikers who do not want to hike a full day. It takes visitors up to

From Swakopmund A new initiative by a local tour company, Tour & Travel Biz, offers guided half-day hikes into the Moonlandscape. The moonscape is a totally barren, undulating, rocky desert, which was formed by the valleys of the Swakop river. Tours depart from Swakopmund at sunrise. Fish River Canyon One of the major hiking trails in Southern Africa, the Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail, takes backpackers on a journey along the second-largest canyon in the world through spectacular scenery, solitude and total wilderness. Hemmed in by sheer canyon walls towering as much as 549 metres above the meandering river, the trail runs between the northernmost viewpoint of the Fish River Canyon and the thermal hot spring at the /Ai-/Ais Spa. The trail is 85 km long, is self-guided and usually takes four or five days. It can be undertaken only from 15 April to 15 September, due to high summer temperatures and the danger of flash floods during the rainy season. A medical form completed by a doctor no more than 40 days prior to the hike, must be handed in at Hobas before commencing the hike. Trailists must carry all their equip92

the plateau in a 4x4 vehicle, who then hike through the biggest fountain gorge in the Naukluft mountains, with many big rockpools to cool off and plenty of quiver trees.

more challenging and fitness is essential. The duration of the trail is five days/four nights and entails 7–8 hours walking per day, with all luggage, including food and water, carried by the hikers themselves. Lead by an experienced guide, you will savour the remoteness and vastness of this ancient desert landscape. Temperatures can reach up to 35°C during the day, sometimes plummeting down to –5°C at night. A maximum of seven people can be accommodated on the trail.

NAUKLUFT experience The owners of the Ababis and BüllsPort guest farms joined forces in 2004 to create the NAUKLUFT experience and develop adventure activities in the area, including a hiking trail on Zipfelberg in the Naukluft. The Peter Bridgeford Hiking Trail, named after wellknown conservationist Peter Bridgeford, was inaugurated early in 2005. An important aspect of the NAUKLUFT experience project is involving the community of Nabasib, a small village 15 km south of the Naukluft massif. Seasonal work on active farming operations has been their main source of income in the past. The partners hope that by creating a product that is not dependent on rainfall and can be expanded, further jobs will be created on a more sustainable level to benefit the community and region in the long run.

Ugab Hiking Trail For keen, self-sufficient hikers, the two-night, three-day Ugab Hiking Trail, guided by a nature conservation ranger, explores the Ugab River and environs. Conducted along the Skeleton Coast, this trail covers a total of about 50 km, taking hikers across the seemingly barren gravel plains of the Namib Desert, and along the Ugab River with its impressive canyons. Along the way hikers have a close-up look at different lichen species and numerous small creatures and plants living in this seemingly inhospitable environment. Trails run throughout the cooler months, from April to October. Most people camp at Mile 108 the previous night. Groups are limited to between 6–8 people. A sturdy rucksack and all camping equipment and food are required. Hikers must carry their own backpacks and equipment and sleep out in the open. Bookings for the trail are made with the Nature Conservation office in Windhoek, well in advance (ideally 18 months or so), and all the participants will need a medical certificate of fitness issued a maximum of 40 days before the hike commences.

Tok Tokkie Trails The well-known Tok Tokkie Trails, which have been in operation since 1997, are offered on the NamibRand Nature Reserve by Unlimited Travel & Car hire cc. The location is accessed from the D827, with the turnoff sign-posted 400 metres or so north of the C27–D827 junction. The duration of the desert-walking trail of approximately 22 km is two nights/three days. Alternating between the gravel plains, sand dunes and inselbergs of the NamibRand Nature Reserve, walking is at a leisurely pace, with the focus on the desert-adapted flora and fauna. A back-up crew sets up the overnight camps in the most scenic settings with sundowners, three-course dinners and breakfasts enjoyed amongst the dunes. Lunch is provided at a shaded lunch spot. All equipment is provided, so trailists need to bring only their hiking boots, hats, sunblock and hiking clothes. They carry only a light daypack with water and snacks.

Trails in the Waterberg Plateau Park On the Waterberg Guided Wilderness Trail, the possibility of a face-to-face encounter with a black rhino or a buffalo is very real. The route takes hikers, accompanied by a park warden, through magnificent rock formations and interesting vegetation, affording plenty of time for birding, relaxing and savouring the unique atmosphere of the plateau. The route is 50 km, takes four days to complete and has basic overnight trail shelters with water and toilets along the way. It can be undertaken from April to November, starting on Thursdays, and the group must consist of 6–8 hikers. They

Desert Experience Trail Similar to the Tok Tokkie Trail, the Desert Experience Trail is also undertaken on the NamibRand Nature Reserve. However, the trail is 93

must be fit and able to take evasive action quickly in the event of an unexpected encounter, and provide their own food and sleeping bags. The Unguided Wilderness Trail at Waterberg is 42 km long and is undertaken without a guide. The trail takes four days and is open from April to November. Hikers depart every Wednesday at 9:00 and return on Saturday, and must provide their own food and camping equipment. Groups should consist of 3 to 10 persons.

Ride is a more relaxed ride, guided by Dr TelanĂŠ Greyling, botanist and world authority on the wild horses of Namibia. A 4-day circular ride in the Sperrgebiet Rand Park, a private reserve adjoining the Sperrgebiet National Park and habitat of the wild horses. On the Damara Elephant Ride, which takes six and a half days through vast open spaces on horse back, riders can expect to see elephant, giraffe and rhino in a desert habitat, ancient craters and remnants from prehistoric times, not to mention the forbidding Skeleton Coast. These trails are all offered by the Namibia Horse Safari Company.

Fundraising Treks Desert Elephant Trek Every year the Elephant Human Relations Aid (EHRA) organisation runs a sponsored 141km walk through Damaraland over 5 days to raise funds for conflict prevention programmes, including a collaring programme for the areas threatened bull elephants. The walk is great for anyone looking for a trekking or walking holiday, whilst completing a personal challenge and raising money for the conservation of the desert elephants in Namibia. The route starts near Ugab Wilderness Camp at the foothills of the Brandberg and leads in a north-westerly direction into the sand dunes, and further towards Doros Crater. From there it swings west to Klein Gai-Ais, from where it turns south to end at the Ugab River.

The Desert Homestead 35 kilometres from Sossusvlei, offers accommodation in rock chalets with views across the Nubib Mountains. Under the trade name Desert Homestead & Horse Trails, the enterprise offers horse trails into the surrounding plains and watercourses, including breakfast rides, sunset rides, a 4x4 Sossusvlei excursion, an introductory ride, sleeping in the desert, and an optional sundowner ride. Packages that include the Skeleton Coast, Swakopmund and Grootberg are also available. Grootberg Lodge also offers additional morning and afternoon rides. Good to know is that the horses at Grootberg hail from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, are tough as nails and totally unfazed by the sudden appearance of elephants. Most of them are Arab barbs bred in the area and bought from the donkey carts. River Crossing, 3 km outside of Windhoek en route to the International airport offers morning and afternoon rides, as well as full day rides, which include lunch at the foot of a cliff. The pace is varied and suited to the weakest rider in the group.

Horsebackriding For accomplished riders there are several options, including the Namib Desert Ride of about 400 km starting in the Khomas Hochland and leading through the Kuiseb Canyon, Tinkas, Tumas and Welwitschia Plains, Moon Valley, the seasonal Swakop River and coastal dunes to the Atlantic Ocean. The Greater Fish River Canyon Ride traverses three private parks: Fish River Canyon Park, Gondwana Park and Aussenkehr Park (about 237 000 ha), combining dramatic canyon landscapes, spacious desert plains and the mighty Orange River, covering between 20â&#x20AC;&#x201C;50 km per day over eight and a half days. The Fish River Canyon Ride takes three and a half days of riding through the second biggest canyon in the world where zebra paths, steep tracks, savannah grasslands and rocky tributaries form part of the path. The Desert Horse

Horse trails at BĂźllsPort are geared to experienced riders as well as beginners, and include tailor-made overnight trails into the Naukluft with participants sleeping under the stars. From just outside of Swakopmund, Okakambe Trails offers tailor-made overnight trails into desert terrains varying from sand dunes and rocky plains to mountains and dry riverbeds. The daily distance covered is approximately 30 to 40 km, depending on the experience of the riders and the weather conditions.

Okapuka Horse Safaris offers rides in close proximity to Windhoek. Riders can expect to be on horseback for between 4 – 5 hours per day on willing, forward going, responsive Arabian horses. Depending on time of arrival, it usually comprises seven days of riding.

zebra, black and white rhino, hippo, impala, black-faced impala and Burchell’s zebra, and protected game including lion, blue wildebeest, eland, cheetah, red lechwe, roan, sable, sitatunga, steenbok, tsessebe and waterbuck, may be hunted only with a permit issued by the MET.

The Namibia Endurance Ride Association (NERA) holds regular endurance competitions throughout the country, while show jumping is also popular and is organised by the Namibian Equestrian Federation. Dressage and horse racing are more horse sports to choose from.

Game-bird hunting is growing in popularity, with some farmers managing their game-bird populations to offer this form of hunting. Huntable game birds include Burchell’s and Namaqua sandgrouse, red-billed, crested and Orange River francolins, crested guineafowl, Egyptian goose and Cape and red-billed teal. The bag limits and hunting seasons for the respective species are published in the Government Gazette.

Hunting Namibia has become one of the top hunting destinations in Africa. Members of the Namibia Professional Hunters Association (NAPHA) maintain a high standard of ethics. Hunting options range from trophy hunting on hunting or guest farms to hunting and big game safari in concession areas in the east and northeast of the country.

Namibia also offers bow hunting. Several farms have been approved for bow hunting by the MET, while professional hunters, master hunting guides and hunting guides are required to qualify as bow-hunting guides. Kitesurfing With its fresh southwesterly breezes, the Walvis Bay Lagoon attracts board-sailing enthusiasts, especially for kite surfing and kayaking. The Walvis Bay Kite Centre offers lessons in kitesurfing, and equipment rentals and sales.

Namibia has strict game laws, requiring all hunting farms to register with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism (MET). All hunting guides, master hunting guides and professional hunters are required to meet the stringent requirements set by the Ministry.

The Lüderitz Speed Challenge, a competition for speed sailors, is held annually. The first Lüderitz Speed Challenge was held in September and October 2007, with a number of impressive performances by entrants suddenly placing Lüderitz on the world-sailing map. In 2009 the world speed record for kite surfing was set here, and 2010 was the first time in the history of speed sailing that three different sailing disciplines were included: hydrofoil boating, windsurfing and kite surfing.

Trophy hunting is allowed between February and November. The Nature Conservation Ordinance provides for four classifications of game: huntable game, specially protected game, protected game and huntable game birds. Huntable game includes kudu, gemsbok (oryx), springbok, warthog and bushpig. The hunting season for huntable game on farms is usually in June and July. Written permission must be obtained from the farmer before a permit will be issued by the MET.

Mountain Biking Namibia’s central plateau running from north to south with an average altitude of between 1 000 and 2 000 meters, the rugged mountainous escarpment that descends into the Namib Desert in the west,

Specially protected game such as elephant, Hartmann’s mountain 95

and the rolling hills of the Khomas Hochland west of Windhoek, provide many opportunities for exhilarating and truly tough mountain biking.

The Otjihavera Xperience is a strenuous two-day, two-stage mountain-bike event hosted by the Rock and Rut Mountain Bike Club. The route starts at Heja Lodge from where it follows jeeptracks and farm roads passing the Otjihase mine and then into farmland until it reaches Midgard Lodge. Day two kicks off from Midgard Lodge, where the route goes towards the Otjihavera mountain range and finishes at Okapuka Lodge.

One of the pioneering mountain-bike safari operators is Mountain Bike Namibia (MBN), offering a round trip of about 3 500 km to visit Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland and the Etosha National Park, starting and ending in Windhoek and taking about 16 days. The same daily distances covered by a vehicle safari can be completed in a day on a combination bike and safari tour. The tours are supported by professional back-up teams and practical bike trailers that make loading and off-loading fast and easy. Providing bikers have a reasonable level of fitness, there is no age limit, with many being over 60 years of age. MBN also offers shorter tours that focus on specific areas of Namibia.

Another competitive cycling event is the Nedbank Cycle Challenge, which takes place on the second Sunday of February each year. In 2011, a Mountain Bike Challenge was added, covering 15 km and 30 km. Cyclists can enter to participate over 20-km, 35-km and 75-km as individuals, families or teams, and children are welcome to participate in the Kidz Challenge. The annual Namibgrens Marathon includes various trails of 13 km, 38 km and a challenging 73 km route through some of the country's most scenic areas, presenting several challenging obstacles.

The Rock: Spitzkoppe Run and Bike Challenge is a foot-andcycle race around the Spitzkoppe in the Namib. The race starts and finishes at the Spitzkoppe Community Campsite entrance gate and follows a route over gravel tracks in an anti-clockwise direction around the Pontok Mountains and Grosse Spitzkoppe massif, featuring half-marathon running, walking and cycling categories. It is held in September each year and includes a 35 to 70km cycling category.â&#x20AC;¨

The Namibia National Cross Country Championships takes place yearly in July. The route measures in at roughly 6.5km per lap, where cyclists ride between one and five laps, depending on the category entered. In 2011 the championship took place at Farm Kleine Kuppe, on the outskirts of Windhoek.

Extreme off-road cycling Before embarking on the 24-hour FNB Desert Dash, teams have to prepare themselves mentally and physically to endure intense heat, strong winds and cold fog as they cycle through the night with endless horizons stretching ahead. With an option of four entry categories to choose from, riders commit themselves to completing a minimum of 140 km (teams of four people), 200 km (teams of two people) and a daunting 340 km for solo entrants. There is also a category for tandems. The route follows the C26 out of Windhoek, continues along the D1982 down the Us Pass and then crosses to the C28 via D1985 into Swakopmund.

A new initiative, launched in 2011 by African Extreme Promotions, is the 500km Windhoek Lager Namib Quest Challenge. Made up of six stages over six days, riders depart from Windhoek, cycle over the Khomas Hochland, through the Namib and finish at Walvis Bay. The annual Klein-Aus Vista Mountain Bike Challenge takes place in April. This very tough experience is a challenging event on mostly single-track mountain bike trails in the Aus Mountains. In 2012 it will be a two-day event and participants can compete in either a marathon 55 km or a half marathon of 30 km. There are separate categories for men, women and juniors.

Competitive cycling 96

Quadbiking One of the best ways to access parts of the sand dunes that even 4x4s can't reach is on a quad-bike. Many lodges around the country offer quad-bike outings to view game and scenery. Quad-biking activities feature especially prominently in the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

Amongst a large portfolio of cycling events, the Rock and Rut Mountainbike Club also organises several Cross Country races each year. Paragliding The dunes south of Swakopmund provide among the safest locations in the world to learn the art of paragliding. Even Europeans used to berg-wind conditions travel to Namibia to train in the harsher conditions of the interior. The dune belt between Swakop and Walvis Bay, especially the dunes overlooking Long Beach (Langstrand), are favourite spots. The fresh southwesterly winds offer ideal ‘lift’, and once air-borne there are spectacular views of the desert and ocean.

There is considerable controversy over the use of quad-bikes in the sand dunes, as it can be destructive if conducted in a careless and irresponsible manner, posing a threat to animal species and plant life in the sand-dune areas. To guard against environmental damage, prospective quadbikers are requested to go on the guided trips offered by reputable operators, which guarantee experiencing the sheer thrill of riding a quad-bike through Namibia's boundless expanses of shifting sand dunes in specially designated areas.

Namib Gliding offers a half-day introductory course that includes at least two ground-skimming flights, full day flights, a basic pilot’s license course and tandem flights. Paragliding enthusiasts occasionally undertake powered paragliding excursions along the coast. In Namibia paragliding is usually done with a guide who knows the conditions and flying sites in Namibia.

Safaris

The Namibian coast, where the dunes range from 70–150 meters, is one of the great training and fun-flying sites in the world. The dunes are regulated by the local training school to insure safety and reduce overcrowding. Current tours are offered from October to March, which is the main season and the best flying times in Namibia. Tours include all transfers, specialized training in strong wind, reverse launch techniques, accommodation, guiding and permits.

A wide variety of safaris can be organized by tour operators, ranging from self-drives, fly-ins, bus tours and overlander tours, to camel safaris, horse safaris, walking safaris, and privately guided safaris, to name a few. It is possible to see the Big 5 in Namibia, and the possibilities are truly endless.

Stargazing With its generally cloudless night sky, especially in the dry winter months, minimal contamination by artificial light and air pollution, and excellent view of the southern constellations, Namibia has superb stargazing conditions. As such it is favored by professional and amateur astronomers alike.

Photography Namibia is a photographer’s paradise and although no Namibian companies currently specialize exclusive in photographic tours, it is easy to arrange an exclusive tour with many tour operators, some guided by professional photographers. Famous places to photograph include the dunes of Sossusvlei, the Etosha National Park, the Fish River Canyon, the Himbas, historical monuments and other places of interest.

Namibia was chosen as the best site for the multi-national Max Planck High Energy Stereoscopic System experiment (H.E.S.S.), now fully operational on Farm Göllschau near the Gamsberg. Many lodges have medium-sized telescopes (up to 16" diameter) for use by guests, and provide novice stargazing guests with a laymen’s

introduction to astrology. The Khomas Hochland/Gamsberg area west of Windhoek has the third-clearest, least light-polluted sky in the world. An impressive 'farm' of telescopes and other equipment is maintained by the German-based International Amateur Observatory at the guest farm Hakos on top of the Gamsberg Pass, two hours' drive away from Windhoek.

Tandem jumps are offered daily by operators in Swakopmund. When skydiving, the tandem pair boards the aircraft at Swakopmund airfield. The plane ascends to 10 000 feet, at which point the tandem exits the aircraft. After a 30-second free fall, the tandem master opens the parachute and the tandem pair glides down to a tiptoe. Soaring The name Bitterwasser, located in the southeast of the country, has become synonymous with the sport of soaring (also referred to as gliding) ever since the late Peter Kayssler began logging vast distances on his farm in the early 1960s. A combination of the ideal altitude (1 250 metres), stable weather conditions and clear skies creates conditions reputed to be amongst the best in the world. Between November and January, the high season for soaring, Bitterwasser becomes a hive of activity, with soarers from Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium and elsewhere descending on the centre. Soaring altitudes vary from 2 000â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4 500 meters. Guest Farm Kiripotib also offers gliding.

A yearly event is organized by the Southern Stargazers and is open to star-lovers from all calibers. It is usually held over a weekend in June or July, depending on the most favorable conditions for stargazing. The 2012 event will take place from 15 to 17 June on the farm Otjiwa, outside Otjiwarongo. Contact Lynette le Roux at 081 128 1517. SOLNA, Namibiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first space observation learning centre, is a company that deals with astronomy education, astrophotography, telescope sales and stargazing tourism. Skydiving Namibia's premier drop zone is located just outside the coastal town of Swakopmund. The scenery viewed whilst floating peacefully under an inflated parachute is simply breathtaking. Some skydiving clubs have been operating since 1980, and carry on a long tradition of high-quality skydiving, training and fun that has always been associated with the coastal town.

Surfing

With waves ranging in length between 150 and 300 meter and with a swell size of about 2 meter, surfing, although not as popular, is possible at Cape Cross where waves are rated as the favourites in Namibia. The wave quality is described as world class and very consistent. Surfers need to be mindful of the resident seal colony when tackling the waves. Click here to watch a surfing video in Namibia.

There are two skydiving clubs in Swakopmund that offer a professional training service. If you are already a skydiver, you can arrange a scheduled jump, and if you are a novice, there are two options. You can complete a one-day training course that will qualify you for a static line jump on the same day, meaning that you are tied to the aeroplane with a special cord that automatically opens your parachute. Or you can do a much shorter course and complete a tandem, freefall jump. A tandem jump means that you are physically strapped to a qualified instructor. You jump out of the plane together, freefall for 30 seconds or so, and the instructor makes sure your parachute opens.

Wellness Wellness is a holistic approach to health that combines all aspects of physical, mental and spiritual well being to realign mind, body and soul. Many lodges offer smaller wellness centers, while others, like Gocheganas, specializes specifically in wellness. Depending on the individual facilities, a large variety of packages and wellness treatments are offered, ranging from outdoor massages to de-stress and detoxification packages as well as personal training and nutritional consultations. 98

Windsurfing Namibia’s dams, the Atlantic Ocean and Walvis Bay Lagoon lend themselves to a variety of water sports. With its fresh southwesterly breezes, the Walvis Bay Lagoon is one of the world’s hotspots for windsurfing. The Lüderitz Speed Challenge, a competition for speed sailors, is held annually. The first Lüderitz Speed Challenge was held in September and October 2007, with a number of impressive performances by entrants suddenly placing Lüderitz on the world-sailing map. In 2009 the world speed record for kite surfing was set here, and 2010 was the first time in the history of speed sailing that three different sailing disciplines were included. These were hydrofoil boating, windsurfing and kite surfing.

NAMIBIA KEY ISSUES Understanding some Key Issues in Namibia In case anyone asks youâ&#x20AC;Ś

Political history A quick historical overview: Namibia was proclaimed a German protectorate by Bismarck in 1884. The conquest of German South West Africa by South African forces during World War I resulted in Namibia coming under South African administration in 1920. A long war between the occupying South African forces and the Swapo (South West Africa People’s Organization) liberation movement started in 1966. In 1989 the implementation of United Nations Resolution 435 for free and fair elections resulted in Swapo coming to power. On 21 March 1990, following 106 years of foreign rule, Namibia achieved independence and Sam Nujoma was sworn in as the country’s first president. He stepped down in 2005 after serving three terms and was succeeded by Hifikepunye Pohamba. Namibia's latest national and presidential elections took place in November 2009 with regional and local elections in 2010. The Swapo Party retained the majority and its presidential candidate, Hifikepunye Pohamba, will be President of Namibia until 2014.

According to Herodotus, the first sailors to circumnavigate the continent of Africa were Phoenicians. In 1486 the Portuguese navigator Diego Cão planted a stone cross or padrão at Cape Cross, about 130 km north of Swakopmund. A second cross was planted in 1488 by Bartolomeu Dias at Dias Point in the bay of Angra Pequena (Little Bay), the Lüderitz of today. Travelling overland from South Africa, Jacobus Coetsé was the first white man to reach Namibia, the land across the Garieb (Orange) River, referred to then as Transgarieb. The Swedish adventurer and explorer, Charles John Andersson, was the first person to refer to today’s Namibia as South West Africa, as he called it in his travel journals. The first missionaries established mission stations at Warmbad and Blydeverwacht in 1805. Mining Understanding Mining (click here for an article on Uranium Mining) From the ghost town at Kolmanskop, the center of diamond mining in the early 1920s where dreams of riches, briefly fulfilled, returned to dust to the active uranium mines that are dotted across sections of the desert today, Namibia’s development and the mining industry share a long history.

Government Namibia is ruled by a Multiparty Parliament and has a democratic constitution. The president is voted in directly by the electorate for a five-year term and is supported by the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Parliament is comprised of two houses; one is elected directly and the other indirectly by the country’s regions. The Government’s policy of national reconciliation and unity embraces the concepts of tolerance, respect for differing political views, and racial and ethnic harmony. The Constitution provides for the division of power between the executive, legislature and judiciary.

Diamonds are still mined but, after more than 100 years, they are found mainly off shore near Orangemund in the extreme south of the country. Copper is mined near Tsumeb in the north and small prospectors still search the country’s central mountains for semi-precious stones. Yet currently it is uranium that figuratively fuels the mining industry. Namibia is now the fourth-largest exporter of non-fuel minerals in Africa, and also the world’s fourth-largest producer of uranium; it is the fifth currently in identified Uranium deposits worldwide. Namibia, Niger and South Africa are currently the only three African producers of uranium, which is used mainly to fuel commercial nuclear power plants.

History Namibia’s varied geographical features have played a significant role in the history of the Namibian people. In pre-colonial times a relatively stable water supply and the well-wooded terrain in the north-eastern regions of the country encouraged cattle farming and agricultural practices by the Owambo people and tribes along the Okavango River. Among the earliest inhabitants of the central and southern areas were the San/Bushmen, who were hunter-gatherers; the Damara, about whom little is known other than that they were hunters and to a lesser extent pastoralists; and the Nama, who were nomadic cattle farmers.

Namibia has a “Chamber of Mines,” dedicated to protecting the interest of member organisations, to upholding mining practice in Namibia to the highest standards, observing international conventions and ensuring positive development of Namibia’s reputation as a mining nation. Namibia knows it is essential to integrate environmental, economic and social aspects through all phases of mineral production from exploration through con101

struction, operation and mine-site closure. As one operating company representative put it, “Failure of one to comply will impact all and this will have detrimental effects on the industry as a whole. The eyes of the world have always been scrutinizing the nuclear industry and we cannot afford anything but the highest standards of environmental and radiation safety management.’’

Okahandja Country Hotel, all of which can take more than 100 people.

If you’d like more information on mining in Namibia, please read the detailed article below.

Many guest farms and most guest lodges in Namibia have small facilities for conferences, always with the added bonus of having other attractions to make them special as a venue. They are often situated in scenically beautiful surroundings, offering activities that are exciting and challenging. A novel way to conference is on the Desert Express train between Windhoek and Swakopmund, which has facilities for up between 50–120 delegates.

The Sakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre, Hansa Hotel, Rössmund Lodge, and Hotel Pelican Bay offer conference facilities in and around the coastal cities of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. The National Marine and Research Centre in Swakopmund also has space for delegates.

Seals Click here to read an article on Seals in Namibia Hosting a Conference or Meeting in Namibia

Benefits Doing business in Namibia is safe, easy and unique! About 13% of foreign visitors to Namibia visit the country for business purposes. Direct flights from Frankfurt make for an easy European connection and Namibia’s world-class telecommunications system ensures that business travelers remain connected.

Conference Facilities Namibia has gained an international reputation as a stable multicultural democracy with strong support systems capable of providing facilities for international conferences for more than 2 000 delegates. The largest conference venue in Windhoek is the Safari Court Conference Centre, which can accommodate as many as 2 400 delegates theatre-style, one 800 in conference style and one 200 in banqueting style. The Centre has a computerised sound and lighting system and humidity-controlled airconditioning. The Windhoek Country Club & Resort offers a high-standard conference facility equipped to accommodate up to 800 people in its auditorium.

Conferences are enhanced by Namibia’s well-structured and efficiently organised tourism industry, enabling organisers to offer pre- and post-conferencing tours and activities of a high standard. The available infrastructure in Namibia, catering for the MICE market is by far more than adequate, with the capital city of Windhoek of course featuring the widest selection of conference facilities. Conferences can be arranged to suit small to larger groups in many parts of the country, including through some very creative techniques, be it out in the desert in mobile settings or on a game lodge or in the capital city itself.

Another major mid-city conference venue in Windhoek, the NamPower Convention Centre, can accommodate up to 600 delegates in its multifunctional auditorium. The facility consists of two spacious conference venues that can be divided into two sections, three breakaway rooms, state-of-the-art Video Conferencing Bureau and a Business Centre with seven fully equipped workstations.

Who to contact? Places mentioned above can be contacted individually; otherwise the Namibia Tourism Board also has an extensive list of conferencing venues all over Namibia.

Other major conference facilities in and around Windhoek are available at the Hilton Hotel, Kalahari Sands Hotel & Casino, Hotel Fürstenhof, Heja Game Lodge, Roof of Africa, Hotel Thuringerhof, Midgard Country Estate, and 102

Downloadable Content (Coming Soon)

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Itineraries We have not listed specific companies, but we have provided suggested itineraries for the following interest groups. Click on the hyperlink to download the itinerary: - Classic Namibia - +55 in Age (Adventurer Demographic) - Namibia plus an excursion to Victoria Falls - 4 day extension from Botswana - 4 day extension from South Africa - Caprivi Region - Community Based Tourism - Cultural tourism - Cycling - Dune trips - Family - Flying Safari - Hiking trails - Honeymoon - Hunting - Photographic Tours - Rowing/Rafting or other Water based activities - Safari/Conservation interest

Ai/Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park Bushmanland and Khaudum National Park Fish River Canyon Etosha National Park Kavango Zambezi Tranfrontier Park (KAZA) Kolmanskop Luderitz Namib-Naukluft National Park Quiver Tree Forest Sossusvlei Swakopmund & Walvis Bay Twyfelfontein Kalahari The Skeleton Coast Damaraland Kunene Region

Images Click here to go to our Image Gallery which has images available for you to download for free. The End If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our Trade Liaison, Natasha Martin, at n.martin@solimarinternational.com

Destination Copy You can also click here to download Destination Copy for your use in marketing materials. Destination Copy is available for the following: • Capital City • Central Region • South Region • Namib/Coast Region • East Region • NorthWest Region • North East Region • Caprivi Region • Kavango Region • Communal Conservancies

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Quiz 1 Question 1 of 10

What other currency is widely accepted in Namibia?

A. Euro B. Deutchmark C. South African Rand

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PHOTO GALLERY See amazing photos of this spectacular country with E n d l e s s H o r i zo n s

Gallery 14.1 Namibia

Enjoy this amazing images! 1 of 19 106