Namibia
Namibia
in Style / Namibia in Focus / Andersson's
Safari / Cape to Namibia Self-Drive
Adventure Namibia Self-Drive / Luxury
Camping / Serviced Camping /
Budget Camping
15 Day Southern Skies Safari
A small group semi-participation Camping Safari from
Victoria Falls to Swakopmund through Zambia, Botswana, Namibia
Highlights
Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Western Caprivi, Mudumo National
Park, Okavango Delta, Etosha National Park, Himba Village and Swakopmund.
DAY
1: Victoria Falls, Zambia B
Arrival at the Zambezi Waterfront. We can arrange airport transfers
on request. This afternoon is spent at your leisure for optional activities
offered at the Zambezi Waterfront.
Accommodation: Zambezi Waterfront (Chalets with en-suite bathrooms,
bar and swimming pool).
DAY 2: Depart Victoria Falls for Chobe
National Park, Botswana LD
A mid morning departure takes you from Livingstone in Zambia by ferry
across the Zambezi and onto Botswana (1 hour). The afternoon is spent
on a sunset cruise game viewing in a part of Africa's unspoilt wilderness,
Chobe National Park. Chobe has an abundance of Game whose distinctive
calls can be heard throughout the night.
Distance: 110 km Departure: 09h00
Accommodation: Toro Lodge (tents, wash rooms with hot water, bar and
swimming pool).
DAY 3: Western Caprivi, Namibia
BLD
Leaving Botswana, we drive through Chobe National Park before crossing
over into Namibia and driving through the Caprivi to our camp on the
banks of the Kwando River. In the afternoon you will go on a game drive
to the famous Mudumo National Park. In contrast to the rest of Namibia,
the area is lush with riverine forest, marshes, dense savannah and mopane
woodland.
Distance: 260 km Departure: 08h00
Accommodation: Camp Kwando (tents, wash rooms with hot water, bar and
swimming pool).
DAY
4 & 5: Caprivi to Okavango Delta,Botswana BLD, BLD
We leave our camp on the Caprivi for Etosha, on the western border of
the Okavango Delta. The next day is spent exploring the network of water
pathways through thick vegetation in mokoros (traditional dugout canoes).
The Delta is a well-preserved gem of Africa with a vast oasis of crystal
clear lake lets, lagoons and palm-fringed islands. On our last evening
in the Delta we feast with a braai (barbeque).
Day 4
Distance: 325 km (20 km in 4x4) Departure: 08h00
Accommodation: Guma Lagoon Camp or similar(tents, wash rooms with hot
water and bar).
Day 5
Distance: 20 km by motorized boat Departure: 08h00
6 km by Mokoro / about 5 km walk in Delta
Accommodation: Guma Lagoon Camp or similar (tents, wash rooms with hot
water and bar).
DAY 6 & 7: Okavango Delta to Kavango
River, Namibia BL, BL
Leaving Botswana we make our way into Namibia and head along the Caprivi
to Rundu and onto N'kwazi River Camp, which is on the bank of the Kavango
River over looking Angola. A sunset cruise, horse riding, traditional
dancing in the evening as well as visiting a local village are optional
or you can just put your feet up and relax on the banks of the river
as the sunsets.
Distance: 350 km Departure: 07h00
Accommodation: N'Kwazi River Camp (tents, wash rooms with hot water,
swimming pool and laundry service available).
Day 8, 9 & 10: Etosha National Park, Namibia BLD, BLD, BLD
The following morning we head off to Etosha National Park. We fill the
next 2 days with game drives, which includes evening game viewing at
floodlit waterholes. In the mornings we have the opportunity to take
game drive at sunrise. At all three camps, Namutoni, Okaukuejo and Halali
you can take a swim in the swimming pool or as the sunsets and late
into the night the group can watch animals drink at the floodlit waterhole.
Distance: 362 km Departure: 10h00
Accommodation: Namutoni, Okaukuejo, Halali (tents, wash rooms with hot
water, swimming pool and convenience store).
DAY
11: Kamanjab - Himba Experience, Namibia BLD
We leave the wild animals behind at Etosha and move onto the spectacular
scenery of Twyfelfontein. On our way we visit the small German town
of Outjo where we relax for a coffee break. Our final destination for
the day will be Kamanjab. Depending on the time of arrival we go and
explore a traditional Himba Village that afternoon or the next morning.
This will be a journey of culture exchange and learning and understanding
of our last traditional tribe in Namibia, the Ova-Himba.
Distance: 270 km Departure: 07h00
Accommodation: Porcupine Camp (tents, wash rooms with hot water and
bar).
DAY 12: Petrified Forest and Brandberg
(White Lady), Namibia BLD
The Petrified Forest is next on the itinerary before reaching Twyfelfontein
where we walk to visit the ancient bushman's artwork carved and painted
into the surrounding Mountains. After doing this walk we head to our
camp at the foot of the Brandberg Mountains
Distance: 310 km Departure: 08h00
Accommodation: Brandberg White Lady Lodge (tents, wash rooms with hot
water and bar).
DAY 13: Cape Cross Seal Colony and Swakopmund,
Namibia BL
Today
we walk and visit the famous 'White Lady' rock painting in Brandberg.
We move westwards across the flat desert plains to reach the cold Atlantic
coastline. As we follow the Namibian Coast on our way to Swakopmund
we visit Africa's largest seal colony at Cape Cross where zoom lenses
and binoculars will definitely not be needed.
Distance: 270 km Departure: 08h00
Accommodation: Villa Wiese, Swakopmund (with bathroom and hot water).
Restaurant, bars, laundry service and Internet cafe in town.
DAY 14: Swakopmund, Namibia BL
We have the opportunity to explore this quaint German town by day and
night. There are a number of activities to enjoy here: sand boarding,
quad biking, skydiving and even fishing. You may even dare to brave
the icy sea.
Distance: 0 km (Day of leisure)
Accommodation: Villa Wiese, Swakopmund (with bathroom and hot water).
Restaurant, bars, laundry service and Internet cafe in town.
ACTIVITY RATE for Optional Excursions in Swakopmund - Sand boarding
R 250, Sand boarding (stand up) R 350, Fishing R 850, Quad-biking R
500, Sky Diving R 1700, Himba Visit - Scenic Flight (Full day excursion)
On request.
DAY 15: Swakopmund, Namibia B
The tour finishes in the morning after breakfast.
Meal Key B - Breakfast L - Lunch
D - Dinner
Group Size Minimum 4 people, Maximum
10 people
2009 Per Person Rate = US$ 1925.00,
Single Supplement: US$ 65.00 Local payment US$ 210
Partial upgrade rate (with 10 nights in chalet accommodation) = US$
2300.00, single supplement = US$ 335.00, Local payment = US$210
Full upgrade rate (with all nights in chalet accommodation) = US$ 2650.00,
single supplement = US$ 365.00, Local payment = US$210
Departure Dates 2009: May: 09/23,
June: 20, July: 04, August: 01/22, September: 05/19, October: 03/31,
November: 14/21, December: 05
Included in the price
Use of full camping equipment (except sleeping bags), 15 breakfasts,
13 lunches, 9 dinners, coffee/tea with the meals, transport on the tour,
3 nights in chalets and 11 nights camping, activities as per itinerary,
game drives as per itinerary.
Pre and post tour accommodation and transfers can be arranged on
request.
Standard Chalet, Zambezi Waterfront (Livingstone)
= From U$ 80 pp Sharing (BB), From U$ 110 pp Single (BB)
One way Airport Transfer (Zambezi Waterfront, Livingstone) = U$16 pp
(based on minimum of 2 people)
Standard Room, Villa Wiese / Dunedin Star (Swakopmund)
= From R195 pp Sharing (BB), From R330 pp Single (BB)
One way Airport Transfer (Swakopmund to Walvisbay Airport) = From R180
pp (based on minimum of 2 people)
Transport
fully equipped Toyota Landcruisers or appropriate vehicles with comfortable
seating, windows for game viewing and a music system. All luggage is
carried on the vehicle or trailer roof racks to ensure maximum comfort
inside the vehicle. An off-road trailer is fitted with a field kitchen.
Accommodation
Accommodation on our camping safaris is 2 guests per 3-man dome tent,
fitted with mosquito nets. We provide sleeping mattresses. Chalet accommodation
is provided in Swakopmund. Clients can also upgrade to bedded accommodation
on every 3rd day on average depending on the tour Please note that the
accommodation mentioned above are only a guideline. Operator reserves
the right to make use of similar accommodation same standards during
the tour.
Spending money
Clients are advised to bring enough money to cover the purchase of curios
and additional entertainment. US Dollars, Pound Sterling and South African
Rand (ZAR) are the most practical and convenient currencies. There are
automatic teller machines (ATM's) available in Botswana, Namibia and
South Africa to draw money. Foreign exchange into the local currency
is possible in most large cities, through which we pass.
International credit cards and travelers cheques are widely accepted.
Meals
All meals are organized and prepared by the guide with the help of the
group (on participation safaris). Meals are nutritious and filling,
drawing on fresh local produce where possible. We buy groceries along
the way, so our clients have a say in what type of meals are eaten.
Please advise us of any special dietary requirements in advance.
First Aid
Our guides are trained in basic first aid and the vehicle is equipped
with a comprehensive medical aid kit. Preventative Malaria medication
should be taken before the trip and throughout its duration, although
it is advisable to consult a doctor prior to departure.
Luggage
Maximum baggage allowance: 12 kg. Jenman Safaris stipulates this luggage
allowance, as an overloaded vehicle is a danger to both, the clients
and the guide. This does not include photographic equipment and a small
daypack. Please bring a backpack or soft barrel bag, not a suitcase.
Don't bring too much clothing, as there are washing opportunities along
the way. Please adhere to the allowance specified as space for luggage
is limited.
Insurance
It is compulsory for all travelers to have insurance covering their
personal requirements, medical expenses and personal possessions. This
is to be arranged before leaving home country.
Sleeping bags
We are able to supply sleeping bags during the tour if necessary.. A
fee of US$ 30 / Euro 25 will be charged.
Participation
The Southern Experience Safari is a semi-participating Camping Safari.
This means, that the participants will be responsible for performing
and helping with certain tasks as i.e. setting up the overnight camps
(tents, chairs, tables), cooking meals and cleaning dishes afterwards,
tidying up the campsite before leaving and packing/un-packing of the
van.
Visas
All visa requirements to visit Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South
Africa must be organized prior to departure by clients.
ZAMBIA
To explore Zambia is to step back into the untamed Africa of legend.
It is the real Africa with vast, unspoiled wilderness areas waiting
to be discovered. The country is shaped by three great rivers, bordered
by three breathtaking lakes and sheltered by big, big skies. It is a
land that beckons adventurers and those who prefer to avoid the busy
tourist destinations.
While thrill seekers can try the white water frenzy of the Zambezi River
or the adrenaline choked bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge,
Zambia also offers fine wildlife safaris. It is a place the African
walking safari with great hiking trails, glorious sunsets, friendly
people, ancient traditions and mystic legends of nature at its wildest
and most exquisite.
Victoria Falls
'So lovely it must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight' said
David Livingstone of the supreme Mosi-oa-Tunya ('The smoke that thunders').
This legendary traveler first saw the Falls from the Zambian side and
his memory is enshrined in the nearby town of Livingstone. The views
from the Zimbabwean & Zambian side are quite different, varying
dramatically depending on the season and water flow.
The Falls are over a mile in length and boast the largest curtain of
water in the world - over 500 million liters or water per minute go
over the falls and drop 100 m at Rainbow Falls on the Zambian side.
Not surprisingly is it the seventh wonder of the world and fast becoming
one of the top adventure destinations in the world.
The river is divided into a series of braided channels that descend
in many separate falls. Below the Falls the river enters a narrow series
of gorges, which represent locations successively occupied by the falls
earlier in their history. Since the uplifting of the Makgadikgadi Pan
area some two million years ago, the Zambezi River has been cutting
through the basalt base rock, exploiting weak fissures, and forming
a series of retreating gorges. Seven previous waterfalls occupied the
seven gorges below the present falls, and Devil's Cataract in Zimbabwe
is where the next cut back will form a new waterfall that will eventually
leave the present falls lip high above the river in the gorge below.
BOTSWANA
The San were among the first human inhabitants of this region before
the Setswana migrated southwards and slowly occupied the region from
the 16th century onwards, until early in the 19th century. By mid century
missionaries arrived, including David Livingstone and Robert Moffat,
and by 1885 the territory was a British protectorate. Botswana gained
its independence in 1966 and has been the most stable democracy in Africa.
The first president ruled from 1966 until his death in 1980, the second
till 1994 (re-elected twice, then resigned) and the third from 1998.
The country has a strong currency with one of the highest per capita
incomes in Africa, maintains a neutral international political stance.
It is heavily reliant on mining (especially diamonds) & tourism
and maintains close ties with its neighbor South Africa, an economic
powerhouse for the region.
Wildlife is abundant in Botswana and includes lions, giraffes, leopards,
antelope, elephants, crocodiles and ostriches. Botswana is a semiarid
and has average annual (summer) rainfall of 640 mm (about 25 in) in
the north to less than 230 mm (less than 9 in) in the Kalahari. Drought
is therefore a not uncommon and the vegetation is mostly savannah.
Geographically Botswana relatively flat (the average elevation of about
1000 m) and can be viewed (for all intensive purposes) as three major
regions follows:
Chobe National Park in the north, another outstanding wilderness area
of enormous diversity - lion and elephant can be viewed from river of
4x4 game drives.
The Okavango Delta is a vast marshland and one of the largest inland
river deltas in the world - 15 000 km2 of wilderness and prime of safari
area. The Kalahari Desert in the central and southwestern regions occupies
over half the land areas of Botswana. It is a mystical, harsh and unspoiled
landmass.
The saltpans of north-central Botswana and the Tuli block in the far
eastern corner of Botswana are also areas of significance.
Chobe National Park
Chobe is about 11 000 km2 of wilderness area watered by the Chobe &
Savuti Rivers and thus attracting huge concentrations of game. This
includes lion and some of the highest concentration of elephants in
Africa - an estimated population of around 25 000 in winter. Game viewing
is renowned and the in the Northern areas near Kasane, both the riverboat
game viewing experience and the 4x4 vehicle option are popular.
In addition the spectacular annual summer migrations of plains game,
especially zebra, is a highlight, as well giraffe, warthog and numerous
antelope including sable, roan, oribi, reedbuck, lechwe and the colourful
Chobe bushbuck.
Bird watching opportunities in Chobe are ample and include some 350
species including the awesome African fish eagle, the rare Pell's fishing
owl, saddle-billed storks, long-toed plovers, pink-backed pelicans,
African skimmers, Bradfield's hornbills and carmine bee-eaters. Finally,
the sunsets are spectacular.
Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta in northern Botswana near Maun incorporates the Moremi
Game Reserve and is a unique wildlife paradise - one of the finest in
the world. It is one of the largest inland river deltas in the world.
This unsurpassed natural environment is a maze of waterways, islands
and reed banks creating a perfect place for lion, elephant, leopard,
buffalo, giraffe, hyena, wild dog, kudu, impala, roan, zebra, lechwe,
hippo, crocodile, amongst others. There are 440 bird species in the
delta and fish species are also abundant, including tiger fish, sharp-toothed
catfish, barbell and bream.
Travel through the swamps ands surrounding areas is generally by open
4x4 game viewing vehicle or a peaceful meander in a 'Mokoro', a flat-bottomed
dugout canoe.
The Delta is hot throughout the year with temperatures ranging from
about 14°C in January to 24°C in July. Rainfall averages 525
mm annually, but varies greatly from year to year. Water levels and
flooding reach a maximum between March and July, after rains at the
source and the usual 15 000 km2 can expand to approximately 22 000 km2
in high-rainfall years.
NAMIBIA
'Namibia' means 'open plains' in the ancient Hottentot language. It
is a sought after tourist destination defined by endless sunshine, scenic
beauty and unusual and contrasting topography. Namibia is sandwiched
between two deserts - the Namib Desert, said to be the oldest in the
world, on its western coastline and the Kalahari Desert in the eastern
interior. Northern Namibia features the great Etosha National Park,
with the countries largest concentration of game and in the south the
majestic Fish River Canyon plunges 550 m and extends for 160 km. Between
these four highlights lies over 820 000 km2 (the size of France &
Britain combined) of contrasting scenery.
The world's highest dunes are found in haunting scenery inspiring somber
reflection. Pre-historic rock art, the ancient fossil plant, Welwitschia
mirabilis and fossilized dinosaur footprints are preserved in the ancient,
rocky mountain ranges.
Many of the features of this country are of particular scientific interest
and attract scientists from all over the world.
Namibia is the first country in the world to include protection of the
environment and sustainable utilization of wildlife in its constitution.
About 15,5% of the country has been set-aside as national parks. In
these areas, rare and endangered species of animals, birds and plant
life are preserved and protected. They serve as a living reminder to
us all, and to the generations of the future, of how it once was in
Africa.
Western Caprivi
A part of the Western Caprivi previously known as the Golden Triangle
is a pristine wilderness area, practically untouched by any. The area
was formerly under government jurisdiction - a 'no man's land' so wild
that both private landowners and even nature conservation officials
had no authority until the early-nineties. The land was finally handed
over to nature conservation officials who now have prominent presence
in the area. A spectacular part of this area is well known as 'The Horseshoe',
a meandering part of the Kwando River now cut-off to from the flow to
form a horseshoe teeming with game.
A 10-12 km drive through swamp and savannah takes you directly there
while the return trip follows the Kwando River. Not only are hippos
abundant in this area, but also a resident pride of lions. The Horseshoe
is also on the buffalo migration route north. Other animals to be seen
are elephant, giraffe, hyena, tebe, lechwe, kudu and over 400 identified
bird species.
Etosha
Consisting of over 22 000 km2 of saline desert, savannah and woodlands,
the Etosha National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa
and one of the major sanctuaries for wildlife. Its definitive feature
is the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow depression of about 5 000 km2. This
great, white expanse locals call 'great place of dry water', often shimmers
with mirages and herds of game can be seen within this eerie setting.
There are 144 mammal species in the park, including elephant, giraffe,
blue wildebeest and black rhino, predators such as lion, cheetah, leopard,
wildcat, hyena and jackal.
The black rhino population of 300 is one of the few growing populations
in the world and the local elephant are reputed to be the largest in
Africa - the tallest standing at 4 m at the shoulder. Their tusks however
are relatively small due to genetic defects and mineral deficiencies
in their diet.
The majestic eland, the tiny, shy Damara dik-dik (45 cm high) and the
striking gemsbok, with its dramatic black and white markings are common.
Bird life is prolific and some 340 species have been identified, including
Namibia's national bird, the vividly coloured crimson-breasted shrike.
During the more rainy seasons Etosha is also one of the most important
breeding grounds for flamingos.
Etosha is also known for its expert game management and attentive protection
of the unspoiled environment.
Twyfelfontein
Twyfelfontein is known as Namibia's largest open-air art gallery exhibiting
pre-historic artists. One of Africa's richest collections of rock engravings
is on display. It is believed ancient hunters painted these Bushman
Paintings, mostly of lions, giraffes and elephants, while in wait for
wild animals at the waterholes. Although the exact age of the paintings
are unknown, it is estimated that they are between a few hundred and
several thousand years old.
Burnt Mountain, south of Twyfelfontein is a panorama of desolation,
with coloured rocks contrasting vividly against the grey-black surroundings.
The Organ Pipes, a mass of basalt slabs in a ravine gouged out by a
river, is another geological curiosity in this area.
Kamanjab Himba Village
The name Kamanjab means Rock and it has been directly translated from
otji-herero. The Himba Village of the very well known guide and translator
Jaco will take you on a journey of cultural exchange and learning and
understanding of the last traditional tribe in Namibia, the Ova-Himba.
Jaco is an Afrikaans speaking white male, but lives for several years
now with his Himba family and speaks otji-hereo fluently. He was adopted
in the Himba culture by an old chief Tjskume Bhahona that lives in the
mountains at Onkongko near Opuwo. After spending a lot of time with
his new family Jaco decided to come home to his family farm near Kamanjab
where he was still farming with goats, sheep and nguni cattle, the old
chief then asked Jaco if he can send some of his people with him to
come and help him on his farm, Cauas Okawa to look after his goats and
cattle. They built a traditional village for themselves and do their
farming and also planting during the raining season. Please take note
that they only allow persons that are really interested in the culture
and want to have a cultural exchange, not only to take photos and go.
You'll experience the milking ceremony, the believes around the holy
fire and the ancestors, their herbal medicine and smoke bath. The meaning
of jewelry pieces and hairstyles to imitate the status of each tribe
member and their close relationship to nature, their cattle and their
children.
Brandberg
About 100 km further south lay the imposing Brandberg massif; the highest
peak in Namibia at 2574 m. Besides being a major challenge to rock climbers
the Brandberg is most famous for rock paintings. One of the paintings
discovered in 1917, can be viewed on an overhang in Maack's Shelter,
named after this first discoverer. In 1955 however, Breuil, a well-known
French archaeologist and historian copied, described and named the painting
as the 'The White Lady', thinking that the figure resembled a lady of
Greek or Egyptian origin. Although 'The White Lady' has since been the
subject of much controversy, scientists now seem to agree that the painting
portrays a young man. This is due to the lower part of 'his' body being
painted white, a magical hunting spell, as was customary to the Himbas
and the Hereros.
This area is also the haunt of the extremely rare Desert Elephant, one
of the true natural wonders of the word, surviving as they do in this
thirsty land. This is also one of the few places in the world where
animals are completely wild in a mountain desert landscape. With the
help of locals these elephants can be tracked - an experience not easily
forgotten.
Cape Cross Seal Colony
The Cape Cross Seal Colony is north of Swakopmund. During breeding season
as many as 200 000 Cape fur seals (the world's largest fur seal) gather
in the cold waters along this coast. The numerous islets and isolated
parts of the shore are used as nurseries for their young.
Swakopmund
A true oasis and respite from the solemn desert and its monotonous heat.
A seaside holiday resort full of old-world charm and modern amenities,
from the quaint German colonial influences to a funky Internet café.
The tranquil setting includes promenades, palm trees and beautifully
tended public gardens, the Swakopmund museum (covering natural history,
mineralogy, botany, historical and ethnological aspects), the National
Marine & Research Centre, an aquarium, a public library, an Olympic
sized, heated indoor swimming pool and a grassed golf course in a desert
setting. This 'middle of the desert' feel is one of its attractions
- one can enjoy the wild expanse of the adjacent desert and sea and
yet be within easy reach of the creature comforts of Swakopmund's hotels,
restaurants, bars and a much-needed laundries!
There is plenty to see and do and activities include quad biking, sand
boarding, rock & surf fishing and skydiving. There is also a tannery,
manufacturing well-known kudu leather shoes, a brewery producing fine
beers in the German tradition.
Namib-Naukluft National Park
The Namib-Naukluft National Park is an incredibly unusual and diverse
'super- conservation' area. There is nothing quite like it. It's probably
the most unusual in the world - an ancient land with an ageless spirit.
It covers almost 50 000 km2 and is ranked as the 4th largest in the
world (the largest nature conservation area in Namibia) with landscapes
including an impressive mountain massif, desert plains, high sand dunes,
deep gorges and an estuarine lagoon. In truly African light show there
is often clear and sometimes sudden shift in the mood of the moment,
as light, textures and shadows give desert landscapes entirely new characters.
Survivors in this harsh landscape include the Oryx, springbok and zebra
as well as the Welwitschia mirabilis, an odd-looking desert shrub. One
large, protected specimen is estimated at 1 500 years old.
Sesriem
Erosion of many centuries has incised a narrow gorge through which the
Tsauchab River disappears dramatically down a steep gorge in the plain.
This gorge, Sesriem Canyon, about 1 km long with pools along the ways
and a 30-40 m pool at its end. These pools of water on a gravel bed
in an otherwise arid region, attracts many birds and animals.
Sossusvlei
The visual spectacular in the Sossusvlei area is unsurpassed. Amongst
the continuous towering dunes as far as the eye can see is arguably
the highlight of the Namib Desert, the Sossusvlei, an enormous clay-pan,
enclosed by dunes. After a heavy rainfall, rare in this area, the vlei
fills with water and, as the clay layers are virtually impermeable to
water, a turquoise lake remains for quite some time.
The dunes and their rich tints vary from pale apricot to vivid reds
and oranges, and contrast vividly with the dazzling white surfaces of
the white clay pans, or lakes, below.
During the rainy season one of the larger of these pans creates a haven
for water birds, often including flamingos. Even during the dry season,
Oryx, springbok and ostriches can be seen feeding off the sparse vegetation
along the watercourses.
The dunes of the Namib Desert developed over a period of many millions
of years and are shaped by strong-multi-directional winds. It is thought
that the vast quantities of sand were carried into the Atlantic Ocean
by the Orange River. The surf pushed the sand back onto land and coastal
dunes formed. Dunes have subsequently shifted inland and northwards.
Wind continuously re-stacks the sand of the huge shifting dunes of the
Namib Desert. It tirelessly forces the grains of sand on the flat windward
slope upwards to the crest of the dune. Here they fall down in the wind
shade. The leeward slope, therefore, is always considerably steeper
than the windward side.
Fish River Canyon
The Fish River Canyon is surely one of the natural wonders of Africa,
as well as the second largest natural gorge on the continent. It is
a 161 km long, 27 km wide ravine with a maximum depth of 550 m, surrounded
by high, forbidding cliffs, and gashed into the plateau with startling
abruptness. There are many awesome viewing sites to this breathtaking
and immensely powerful natural phenomenon, along a 56 km stretch between
its northernmost & southernmost points.