A vast land of mesmerizing landscapes, abundant wildlife and an astonishing array of natural wonders, Namibia promises adventure at every turn. Encompassing towering dunes, dramatic mountains and lichen-encrusted gravel plains, it’s populated by unique desert-adapted beasts while, flamingos and colonial German architecture bring splashes of colour to the waterfront. Intrigued? Here's our pick of the best things to do in Namibia.
Skeleton Coast National Park is one of the best places to visit in Namibia — and one of its most hauntingly beautiful.
Stretching for over 500km along the Atlantic Ocean, this remote strip of wilderness is all fog-shrouded beaches, windswept dunes, and the rusting remains of shipwrecks that gave the coast its name.
Inside the park, the Cape Cross Seal Reserve is home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals on the planet. The sight — and sound — of thousands of seals piled onto the shore is unforgettable, even if the smell takes some getting used to!
Charter Flights are the easiest and most efficient way to access the park.
They depart from Windhoek or Swakopmund/Walvis Bay and land at airstrips like Mowe Bay or Skeleton Coast Camp.
Fly-in safaris are common, typically organized by luxury lodges, which are among the best Namibia accommodation.
Traveling by road? The Southern Skeleton Coast, south of Terrace Bay, can be accessed via the C34 and C39 routes. Note that a 4WD is essential
The best time to visit is during the May to October dry season.
Want wider context on the weather? Wise up on the best time to visit Namibia.
Exploring the Skeleton Coast is one of the best things to do in Namibia © gg-foto/Shutterstock
Epupa Falls, which means "falling water" in Otjiherero, is formed by the Kunene River as it cascades over a series of cataracts before plunging into a chasm.
The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation and are home to a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles and hippos.
Visitors can take a guided hike to the falls or take a boat tour to explore the surrounding area.
Guided tours from Opuwo and Windhoek are available, and often include cultural visits to Himba villages and riverfront lodging.
Alternatively, you could embark on a road trip adventure from Opuwo.
Like the sound of driving? Discover how to plan to self-drive trip to Namibia.
For easier, safer road conditions and more predictable weather, it’s best to visit during the May to October dry season.
That said, November to April offers lusher scenery and more dramatic falls, but you’ll need to be mindful of the trickier driving conditions, and perhaps consider visiting as part of a tour group.
Visiting the Namib Desert is one of the best things to do in Namibia © evenfh/Shutterstock
The Namib Desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is arguably the most well-known geographical feature of Namibia. The world's oldest desert, this is also one of the driest places on the planet.
Much of the moisture for plant and animal life is gained from fog, making the Namib Desert home to a variety of unique flora and fauna, including Namib desert elephants.
While taking a guided desert safari to see the desert's wildlife up close is one of the best things to do in Namibia, it's especially wonderful if you're visiting Namibia with kids.
Safaris on your mind? Discover the best Namibia safaris.
Guided tours from Opuwo and Windhoek are available, and often include cultural visits to Himba villages.
Alternatively, you could embark on a road trip adventure from Opuwo.
For easier, safer road conditions and more predictable weather, it’s best to visit during the May to October dry season.
That said, November to April offers lusher scenery and more dramatic falls, but you’ll need to be mindful of the trickier driving conditions, or consider visiting as part of a tour group.
Fish River Canyon, Namibia © Shutterstock
The Fish River Canyon is a vast, sinuous chasm and one of Africa's greatest natural wonders.
The second largest canyon in the world, it stretches 160km in length, up to 27km in width and with a depth of 550m in places.
To appreciate its grand scale, one can either gaze across the canyon rim or undertake a gruelling five-day hike along the mainly dry river bed.
The main access point is Hobas Camp, which takes around 10-11 hours to reach by road from Windhoek.
The Fish River Hiking Trail is open from May to mid-September only, and requires a permit.
Planning Namibian adventures? Wise up with our Namibia travel health tips.
Visiting Fish River Canyon is one of the best things to do in Namibia © Tilo G/Shutterstock
Walvis Bay Lagoon is a top destination for birders and casual wildlife lovers, and a visit here is one of the best things to do in Namibia.
This shallow bay is located on Namibia's Atlantic coast and is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos and pelicans.
Visitors can take a guided boat tour to see the birds up close or go on a guided kayaking tour.
Walvis Bay Airport is located 15 km from the lagoon, and served by direct daily flights from Windhoek, Johannesburg and Cape Town.
By road, it’s a 30-minute drive south from Swakopmund: 30-minute drive (40 km) south on the B2 coastal road, or a 5-6-hour drive from Windhoek.
Guided excursions depart from Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, including birdwatching, marine cruises and kayaking with seals.
The overall best time to visit to watch birds is October to March, with flamingo numbers peaking in December and January.
See the wild flamingos and sea life of Walvis Bay on your visit in Namibia © Shutterstock
Namibia’s unpolluted atmosphere makes for a truly glittering night sky and a chance to explore the Milky Way through a telescope.
On account of low population density and low light pollution, the country’s glittering night sky is one of the world’s top stargazing destinations.
As for where to stargaze, the NamibRand Nature Reserve is a certified Gold Tier International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the darkest and most protected night skies on the planet.
Located in southern Namibia near Sossusvlei, the reserve offers vast desert landscapes, rolling dunes, and an uninterrupted celestial dome.
From Windhoek, it takes 6-7 hours to drive to NamibRand Nature Reserve, and around rteh same to drive from Swakopmund.
Alternatively, private charter flights land at nearby airstrips, and can be arranged by lodges. The flight time from Windhoek is around an hour.
For clear, cloudless skies, and little to no rain or atmospheric haze, visit in the May to October dry season. Note that the Milky Way visibility is highest from June to August.
Looking at the night sky — one of the best things to do in Namibia © Shutterstock
Get the adrenaline pumping, rafting or bodyboarding down the world’s most famous white-water river. The Zambezi River is one of the most iconic rivers in Africa and is a great place to experience the country's natural beauty.
White water rafting on the Zambezi is a thrilling adventure, with rapids ranging from Class III to Class V.
Guides are experienced and provide all necessary equipment and safety instructions.
On the other hand, taking a sunset cruise on the Zambezi's calmer parts is a relaxing and scenic experience.
Located right on the Zambezi River’s banks, Katima Mulilo is the regional access hub, a distance of 1200 km (14–16 hours) from Windhoek by road.
Katima Mulilo Airport is also served by limited regional flights from Windhoek. Charter flights are also available from Windhoek or Maun for lodge guests.
The May to October dry season has lower water levels that make rafting and canoeing safer and more scenic.
Note that the November to December shoulder season is hot but dry, and some tour operators still run (depending on water levels) and this is a good time to spot birds.
White water raft on your Namibia trip © Shutterstock
Etosha National Park is Namibia's top wildlife-viewing destination.
With a large expanse of around 22,000 square kilometres, this park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos.
The park's defining feature, Etosha Pan, is a vast saline pan covering one-fifth of its surface area.
This large watering hole becomes a shallow lake in years of exceptional rain, resembling a giant mirror. The lake, when filled, is so massive it is visible from space.
Etosha is located in northern Namibia, about 400–500 km north of Windhoek, depending on the park gate you choose.
Andersson Gate (South Entrance) is close to Okaukuejo Camp, and the most popular entry for self-drivers.
Von Lindequist Gate (East Entrance) is near Namutoni Camp, and accessible from Tsumeb.
Lastly, the quieter Galton Gate (West Entrance) is for travelers entering from Damaraland or Kaokoland.
For the ultimate wildlife watching experience, check out our guide to the best time to visit Etosha National Park.
Spoiler alert: May to September is best!
Watering hole of Etosha National Park © Shutterstock
Namibia is home to a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with many artisans creating beautiful handmade products using local materials, and Okahandja often hailed the country's craft capital.
It’s particularly noted for its bustling woodcarvers’ market located along the main road.
Here, skilled artisans from across the country sell hand-carved masks, bowls, sculptures, jewelry, and traditional crafts.
Only 70 km from Windhoek, Okahandja is an ideal stop for travelers heading north to Etosha, Damaraland, or Swakopmund.
While here, you can also visit the Von Bach Dam for birdwatching, picnicking and fishing, and explore Okahandja’s historical cemetery, which includes German colonial graves.
From Windhoek, drive 70km north via the B1 highway.
In addition, long-distance buses and minibuses often stop at Okahandja en route to northern towns.
Ask for stops at the Craft Market, which is located on the southern side of town.
The cool, pleasant weather of the May to October season are ideal for browsing open-air markets and walking around town.
Late-August offers the bonus of Herero Day, which commemorates Herero chiefs through parades and ceremonies.
Shopping for local crafts is one of the best things to do in Namibia © Oleg Znamenskiy/Shutterstock
Twyfelfontein, meaning “uncertain spring” in Afrikaans, is a collection of large sandstone slabs covered with one of the continent’s greatest concentrations of rock engravings.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes ancient rock engravings dating back to six thousand years ago when San hunter-gatherers inhabited the region.
The area also encompasses several other geological curiosities such as the Organ Pipes and Burnt Mountain.
Twyfelfontein is located in Damaraland, northwest Namibia.
From Windhoek, it takes 8-9 hours to drive here, and 6-7 hours from Swakopmund, and from Etosha’s Andersson Gate is takes 5-6 hours.
Note that many travelers include Twyfelfontein as part of a self-drive loop connecting Etosha, Skeleton Coast, and Swakopmund.
May to September is best for mild, dry weather, with April and October also relatively dry, with fewer crowds.
Ancient rock engravings are a major tourist attraction when visiting Namibia © R.M.Nunes/Shutterstock
Not your average seaside resort, with palm-lined boulevards fronting freezing seas, and some excellent food accompanied by German-style beer.
Swakopmund is a picturesque coastal town that is popular with tourists due to its charming architecture and beautiful beaches.
Visitors can take part in a range of activities such as sandboarding, quad biking, and dolphin watching. Visiting Swakopmund is one of the best things to do in Namibia.
Walvis Bay International Airport is the nearest major airport (40 km south), and served by direct flights from Windhoek, Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Alternatively, it’s a 4-4.5-hour drive from Windhoek. In addition, private shuttles operate daily between Windhoek and Swakopmund/Walvis Bay.
Again, the May to October dry season is best, but note that Swakopmund remains cool and misty year-round, especially in the mornings.
Despite Namibia’s desert climate, Swakopmund remains temperate, and is rarely hot or rainy.
Visiting Swakopmund is one of the best things to do in Namibia © Fotografie-Kuhlmann/Shutterstock
Namibia's vast landscapes make it an ideal destination for hot air ballooning.
Visitors can enjoy a bird's eye view of the desert, mountains, and wildlife as they float above the ground in a hot air balloon.
As for where to do this, head to Sossusvlei, where you can glide over the vast Namib Sand Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and be served views of Dune 45, Big Daddy, and the ancient salt pan of Deadvlei.
Sunrise casts golden hues on the dunes, offering unmatched photo opportunities.
From Windhoek, it’s a 5.5–6.5-hour drive. From Swakopmund, it takes 6-7 hours to drive.
Charter flights also available to Sesriem or Sossusvlei airstrips.
Most hot air balloon rides start from Sesriem, the gateway to Sossusvlei.
May to October offer cool, clear mornings that are ideal for balloon flights.
Note that early mornings can be chilly (bring a jacket), but skies are typically cloudless.
Add a hot air balloon ride to your Namibia itinerary © Liz Glasco/Shutterstock
Southern Namibia’s most emblematic and distinctive plant makes a splendid photo – whatever the angle.
The Quiver Tree Forest is a unique landscape of Aloe Dichotoma trees (or Quiver Trees) that resemble quivers used by the San people to hold their arrows.
These beautiful and culturally significant trees are best seen in the early morning or evening light.
While here, you'll want to also explore Giant's Playground, a picturesque natural phenomenon of dolerite boulders resembling piles of giant marbles.
Quiver Tree Forest is located 13 km northeast of Keetmanshoop, southern Namibia.
From Windhoek, it takes 5.5 to 6.5 to drive here.
June–July is best as this is blooming season for quiver trees, and see bright yellow flowers attract birds and insects.
Quiver tree, Namibia © Shutterstock
Windhoek, Namibia's capital, is scenically located among rolling hills in a valley, providing a central starting point when visiting Namibia.
A bustling city with a mix of African and Germanic influences, Windhoek offers a chance to unwind in one of its many homely guesthouses, restaurants and vibrant bars.
While here, explore the city's museums, markets, and architecture or sample its cuisine and nightlife.
Hosea Kutako International Airport is located 45 km east of Windhoek city center, and served by international flights from: Johannesburg, Cape Town, Frankfurt, Doha and Addis Ababa.
Windhoek is also connected to Walvis Bay, Ondangwa, Rundu, and Etosha-area airstrips by reginal airlines and charter flights.
May to September offers mild temperatures, clear skies, and low humidity, while the shoulder season months of April and October are slightly warmer, with fewer tourists.
Windhoek © Shutterstock
Waterberg National Park is a stunning mountain range that provides a home for a diverse range of wildlife and birdlife.
Towering above the surrounding plains, this impressive sandstone plateau offers varied, lush vegetation, great birdwatching and superlative views from the top.
While here, take a guided hike or safari tour to see animals such as rhinos, buffalo, and antelopes. This is a lovely place to take awesome pictures of Namibia.
The park is located approximately 280 km north of Windhoek, in the Otjozondjupa Region of central Namibia and takes 3.5 to 4 hours to drive from the capital.
The nearest airstrip is at Waterberg Wilderness or charter-accessible strips at nearby lodges.
The May to September dry season is best on balance, though October to November offer warmer temperatures and dramatic light.
Meanwhile the December to March rainy season is excellent for birdwatching, though game viewing is less predictable.
Waterberg: one of the best places to visit for spectacular views © Prisma Nova Photography/Shutterstock
Lüderitz is a coastal town that was founded by the Germans in the early 20th century.
Here visitors can explore its colonial-era architecture and museums, and thanks to its isolated coastal location, Namibia’s best-preserved colonial town is relatively tourist-free. T
Nearby is the old mining town, the now abandoned Kolmanskop, which is partly submerged in sand. This ghost town is known for being reportedly one of the most haunted places in the world.
Lüderitz is in southern Namibia, on the Atlantic coast, about 700 km southwest of Windhoek.
Domestic flights are occasionally available via FlyNamibia from Windhoek's Eros Airport, and charter flights can also be arranged.
By road, a self-drive trip from Windhoek will take 8-9 hours.
The best time is April to October, with August to November being windy season — it’s still visitable, just pack a windbreaker!
The spectacular scenery of Kolmanskop ghost town © Kanuman/Shutterstock © Kanuman/Shutterstock
Inspired to visit Namibia? Wise up with our Namibia travel tips, and read our guide to getting to Namibia, and getting around Namibia.
Or, if you don’t like planning, contact our local Namibia travel experts who can curate your perfect Namibia itinerary.
Keen to go on safari in Africa, but not fixed on Namibia? Take inspiration from our Kenya itineraries.
written by
Rough Guides Editors
updated 03.06.2025
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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Namibia
