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Namibia. The Africa you have to see!

Anton somewhere・41 minutes read

Namibia is a top tourist destination with unique landscapes and wildlife, offering a challenging but rewarding driving experience covering over 4,000 kilometers in about 11 days. Travelers can enjoy stunning nature, cultural sites, and diverse wildlife, with the option to camp and explore the country for two to three weeks.

Insights

  • Namibia's vast landscapes and low population density make it an ideal destination for long-distance driving, with less than 10% of its roads being asphalt, requiring specialized vehicles like SUVs for travel.
  • The deserted city of Kolmanskop, a remnant of the Namibian diamond rush, illustrates the constant battle between nature and human structures, showcasing how abandoned spaces like ghost towns can become picturesque settings as nature reclaims them, offering a surreal and fascinating experience for visitors.

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Recent questions

  • What is the largest canyon in Africa?

    Fish River Canyon

  • What is the deserted city reclaimed by the desert in Namibia?

    Kolmanskop

  • What is the world's largest red sand dune region?

    Sossusvlei

  • What is the unique plant thriving in harsh conditions in Namibia?

    Velvicia Mirabilis

  • What is the top destination in Namibia for diverse nature and culture?

    Namibia

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Summary

00:00

Exploring Namibia: Vast, Wild, and Unique

  • Namibia is located in the southwest of Africa, near South Africa, and is one of the least populated countries in the world.
  • Less than 10% of Namibia's roads are asphalt, with the majority being gravel or off-road, requiring a special vehicle like an SUV, such as a Toyota Hilux, for travel.
  • The SUV used for travel in Namibia is equipped with a 140-liter double gas tank, a fridge powered by an auxiliary battery, cutlery, dishes, a water canister, and two spare wheels.
  • In Namibia, driving is on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right side, and the country has a low population density of 2.5 people per square kilometer.
  • Namibia is a vast country with empty roads, ideal for driving long distances without encountering much traffic, with a population of about two and a half million people.
  • The Quiver Tree Forest in Namibia is made up of aloe plants, not trees, and features giant nests constructed by weaver birds, reaching up to eight meters in length.
  • Gravel roads in Namibia are well-maintained and leveled by graters, allowing for speeds of over 100 kilometers per hour, with a speed limit of 80 kilometers per hour due to dust from oncoming traffic.
  • The Fish River Canyon in Namibia is the largest canyon in Africa, spanning over 160 kilometers in length and reaching over 500 meters in depth, comparable to the Grand Canyon.
  • Sleeping in a tent on the roof of a car is common in Namibia due to the presence of wild animals, and the country offers stunning locations for astrophotography workshops.
  • The deserted city of Kolmanskop in Namibia is a famous ghost town being reclaimed by the desert, showcasing the constant battle between nature and human structures.

17:45

Namibia: From Desert Ghost Towns to Dunes

  • Kolmanskop was established during the Namibian diamond rush in the early 20th century, with a population of a thousand and various amenities like a school, restaurant, library, and concert hall.
  • After the mining ceased in 1956, Kolmanskop became deserted, resembling a ghost town with open doors and a haunting atmosphere due to the wind and sandstorms.
  • Despite being cleared for tourists, sand covers most of Kolmanskop, reaching up to the roofs, but some structures have survived, showcasing the town's former wealth.
  • Kolmanskop, like other deserted places, illustrates nature reclaiming abandoned spaces, with some houses still reflecting past prosperity, creating a picturesque and surreal setting.
  • Nearby, Luderitz, a lively town with a population of 20,000, exhibits surprising architecture reminiscent of Bavaria, reflecting Namibia's history as a former German colony.
  • Namibia hosts a significant white population of European descent, comprising around seven percent of the population, with many residing in affluent neighborhoods with high security measures.
  • Namibia is considered safe compared to South Africa, with a civilized environment, friendly locals, excellent dining options, and a growing tourist appeal, making it a worthwhile destination.
  • The Namib Desert, over 80 million years old, features unique wildlife like oryx and zebras, surviving in the arid conditions, with the landscape evolving as one ventures deeper into the desert.
  • The Sossusvlei plateau boasts the world's largest red sand dunes, rich in iron oxide, creating mesmerizing colors, while attractions like the Sesriem Canyon and fairy circles add to the region's allure.
  • Walvis Bay, known for its flamingo-filled lagoon, offers a diverse landscape with ocean views, red sand indicating diamond potential, and thrilling dune climbs at Sandwich Harbor, a must-visit destination in Namibia.

36:09

Namibian Adventure: Camping, Wildlife, and Landscapes

  • The Spitzkope Mountain rises 670 meters above the Namib Desert, with a campsite at its base offering a wilderness experience.
  • The narrator prefers camping over hotels, finding it integral to the Namibian experience.
  • Attempting to conquer the peak with a drone named Kamikaze, the narrator loses it during a flight.
  • Encountering a unique car wash and hairdresser combo in Africa, showcasing local convenience.
  • Visiting the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, witnessing a massive seal colony with potential ecological consequences.
  • Exploring the Skeleton Coast, a desolate area with shipwrecks and unique plant and animal life.
  • Discovering the Velvicia Mirabilis plant thriving in harsh conditions and coastal lions adapting to desert life.
  • Spotting diverse wildlife in Etosha National Park, including giraffes, elephants, and rhinos.
  • Engaging in a photo safari in Etosha, capturing lions and elephants up close in their natural habitat.
  • Concluding the trip at a lodge in Waterberg Plateau, experiencing a tropical, green landscape in contrast to the desert regions of Namibia.

54:25

Namibia: Adventure of a Lifetime

  • Namibia is a top destination for tourists globally, offering diverse nature, unique culture, and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. Traveling across the country involves driving over 4,000 kilometers in about 11 days, with six to seven hours of driving daily. It's recommended to bring friends or a partner for this challenging but rewarding experience, staying at campsites and exploring the stunning country for two to three weeks.
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