Lying in Southern Africa, Namibia is a unique destination of contrasting landscapes consisting thriving flora and fauna on one side and the extensive Namib Desert on the other. Namibia is bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Angola and Zambia as well as the Atlantic Ocean. Air transport is the swiftest means of getting to Namibia. The capital of Namibia, Windhoek, is served by the Eros Airport and the Hosea Kutako International Airport which is 45 minutes from the city, and is the main entry point for air traffic into Namibia. Once in Namibia, air travel is also economical to move around the country. Trains and buses are widely used while car hire is a great option for convenient and hassle free travel around.
Eco-tourists form the largest percentage of visitors to Namibia, attracted by the country's diversity in terms of landscapes and climate. Namibia's wildlife is a popular attraction with the Etosha National Park being revered worldwide as one of the best wildlife sanctuaries. You have to get here to witness first hand the breathtaking sights of extensive grassland and bush adorned by zebras, giraffes, antelopes, wildebeest and big cats. The Madumu and Mamili National Parks in the northeast of Namibia will treat you to similar spectacular views of wild animals in their undisturbed natural habitat. At the Caprivi Strip's parks and reserves, you will satisfy your quest for diverse bird species, this being a top ten birding destination in Africa. These are just a few of the numerous parks and reserves of Namibia; you will be overwhelmed by the vastness of wildlife in this relatively undiscovered country.
Besides wildlife, other natural attractions in Namibia include the Namib Desert, said to be the oldest in the world and running along Namibia's entire coastline. Picturesque sights of high sand dunes and deserted plains characterise this desert. The Kalahari Desert shared with South Africa is a famous attraction too. The River Canyon and the Cape Cross add to the unending list of Namibia's natural attractions. Around all these areas of Namibia, you will be ale to indulge in many exciting activities such as climbing sand dunes, hiking, fishing, biking and boat riding.
In the capital city and Namibia's other cities, there are restaurants, cinemas, theatres and night clubs for extra entertainment. In particular, restaurants have a lot of German influence in their cuisine, although they also offer local and international cuisine. Namibia's national delicacies include Biltong (air dried meat), barbecued game meat from antelopes, zebras and ostrich as well as sea food on the coast side of the country. Tafel lager and Windhoek lager are the major national drinks in addition to continental drinks and beverages such as wines, tea and coffee.
You will have an opportunity to get your hands on local crafts in Namibia's markets especially the big Wimdhoek Street Market held every second Saturday. Diamonds, carvings, jewellery and Swakara garments are some of the unique commodities you will get here, most of them in unique African designs. Accommodation in Namibia is in plenty. There are quality hotels in the capital and around the country, graded from 5tto 1star depending on your pocket. Other lodging options include lodges in the parks and national reserves, camping and caravanning for those who are adventurous enough as well as the unique option of farm stay accommodation if you are seeking an authentic countryside experience.
