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Deadvlei landscape photography in Namibia on an African safari with Photo Safari Company

NAMIBIA SAFARIS & PHOTO TOURS

Welcome to Namibia, a land of stark contrasts and breathtaking beauty. As one of Africa's top safari destinations, Namibia offers an array of safari experiences, from luxurious lodges to immersive photo safaris. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first African safari, Namibia promises unforgettable encounters with wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Namibia is renowned for its vast, pristine wilderness that includes everything from the towering dunes of the Namib Desert to the rugged mountains of Damaraland. Safari experiences here range from the iconic Etosha National Park to the less-explored wilderness areas of the Skeleton Coast, Kaokoveld and Sossusvlei.

The best times to visit Botswana are between May to the end of September for best game viewing.

Capital City - Windhoek

International Airport/s - Hosea Kutako International Airport

Economic Stability - Stable

Crime - Low

Currency - Namibian Dollar (NAD). *US Dollar is accepted

Health Care - Private Hospitals are well equipped

Malaria - Yes, in Etosha and Zambezi areas

Vaccinations - Recommended (consult your medical professional) 

Medivac Available - Yes

We can arrange and/or host safaris, photographic tours, holidays and more at any of the destinations in Namibia.

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Namibia’s Stunning Landscapes

Namibia’s landscapes provide unique safari opportunities that are ideal for both adventure seekers and photographers:

  • Etosha National Park: One of Africa’s premier wildlife reserves, featuring vast salt pans and watering holes where wildlife congregates. Best visited from May to October during the dry season.

  • Skeleton Coast: A rugged coastline known for shipwrecks, seal colonies, and remote wilderness. The coastal fog creates an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. Year-round visits are possible but cooler from May to August.

  • Sossusvlei: One of the most iconic landscapes in Namibia, Sossusvlei is famous for its vast, red sand dunes and salt pans. The towering dunes, particularly Dune 45 and Big Daddy, offer stunning views and incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The desolate beauty of the surrounding Deadvlei, with its ancient, dead camelthorn trees, creates a surreal and striking contrast against the backdrop of bright orange dunes and a deep blue sky. 

Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park, located in northern Namibia, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, offering an extraordinary wildlife experience. Spanning over 22,000 square kilometres, the park is centred around the iconic Etosha Pan, a vast salt flat that transforms into a shimmering white expanse during the dry season. When the rains come, this ancient lakebed fills with shallow water, attracting migratory birds like flamingos, and creating an otherworldly contrast with the arid surroundings. Etosha’s diverse ecosystems provide a stunning backdrop for some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and a wide variety of antelope species.

The landscapes of Etosha are as varied as its wildlife. From the open grasslands and mopane woodlands to the vast, stark Etosha Pan itself, the park offers incredible opportunities for game drives and photography. Waterholes scattered throughout the park play a crucial role in sustaining the wildlife, particularly during the dry season, when animals congregate around these vital sources. This makes Etosha one of the best places in Africa for close-up wildlife sightings, as large herds of elephants, prides of lions, and solitary leopards can often be seen quenching their thirst.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the best time to visit Etosha is during the dry season, from May to October. As water sources dwindle, wildlife becomes more concentrated around the park’s waterholes, offering spectacular game-viewing opportunities. This period is also ideal for photography, with clear skies, golden light, and animals easily visible against the park’s dry, open landscapes. Etosha is particularly renowned for its population of black rhinos, which thrive in the park thanks to effective conservation efforts. Visitors also have the chance to see white rhinos and observe the interactions of predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards with their prey.

Etosha National Park is not just about incredible wildlife—it’s also a vital part of Namibia’s conservation efforts. The park plays a key role in protecting endangered species like the black rhino and maintaining the delicate balance of its ecosystems. By visiting Etosha, travellers contribute to these ongoing conservation initiatives while enjoying one of Africa’s most rewarding and accessible safari destinations. Whether you’re on a self-drive adventure or a guided tour, the park offers a remarkable experience that combines the beauty of nature with world-class wildlife viewing.

hartebeest antelope in Namibia on an African safari with Photo Safari Company

Namibia Wildlife Highlights

Namibia’s unique ecosystems support a wide variety of wildlife, making it a top destination for safaris and wildlife photography:

  • Desert-Adapted Elephants: Found in the arid regions of Damaraland and Kaokoland, these elephants have adapted to survive in extreme desert conditions.

  • Black Rhinoceros: Namibia is one of the best places to see the critically endangered black rhino, particularly in Etosha National Park and private reserves.

  • Lions and Leopards: Predators roam freely in Etosha and across the savannahs, with excellent opportunities for viewing and photographing.

  • Birdlife: Namibia is home to over 600 species of birds, including the vibrant Lilac-breasted Roller and the near-endemic Damara Tern.

Namib Desert

The Namib Desert, stretching along the Atlantic coast of Namibia, is one of the most iconic and oldest deserts in the world. Known for its towering red sand dunes, some of which rise over 300 meters, and vast, seemingly endless landscapes, the Namib offers a safari experience unlike any other. The desert’s unique beauty, with its dramatic contrasts between the orange dunes, white salt pans, and deep blue skies, creates a photographer's dream. This desert is home to the famous Sossusvlei area, where the haunting beauty of Deadvlei and the colossal dunes like Big Daddy draw travellers and photographers from around the world.

Though seemingly barren, the Namib Desert supports a surprising variety of wildlife, all specially adapted to survive in its harsh environment. Desert-adapted elephants roam through dry riverbeds, and oryx, springbok, and ostriches can be seen traversing the arid plains. Even predators like hyenas and the occasional desert-adapted lion can be spotted in the remote regions of the desert. The Namib’s coastal areas, including the Skeleton Coast, are famous for their colonies of Cape fur seals and offer haunting shipwrecks shrouded in coastal fog.

The landscapes of the Namib are as diverse as they are stunning. Beyond the dunes, you’ll find vast gravel plains, mountain ranges, and deep canyons like the Sesriem Canyon, which reveal layers of geological history. One of the most breath-taking aspects of the Namib is how the desert changes with the light throughout the day, making sunrise and sunset ideal times for capturing its beauty. These moments reveal the stark beauty of the shifting sands, the sharp ridges of the dunes, and the contrasting colours that make this desert one of the most visually striking landscapes in the world.

The best time to visit the Namib Desert is during the cooler months from May to September when daytime temperatures are mild, and the skies are clear. During these months, the conditions are perfect for exploring Sossusvlei, climbing the famous dunes, and witnessing the ethereal landscapes in the soft light of dawn or dusk. Even though the desert can be harsh, the tranquillity and raw beauty of the Namib make it a must-visit for those seeking a unique and awe-inspiring safari destination.

A visit to the Namib Desert is not just about seeing wildlife but about experiencing the timelessness of one of the planet's most ancient environments. From the towering dunes of Sossusvlei to the vast plains stretching towards the Atlantic, the Namib offers a truly unforgettable adventure, where the silence and vastness of the desert remind travellers of nature’s enduring power and beauty.

Hot air balloon safari in Namibia on an African safari with Photo Safari Company

Unforgettable Namibia Safari Experiences

Whether you’re in search of thrilling wildlife encounters, a luxurious retreat, or a photography tour, Namibia offers something for everyone:

  • Game Drives: Experience guided game drives in Etosha National Park, where you can see a diversity of species from the safety of your vehicle.

  • Walking Safaris: Explore Namibia’s remote wilderness on foot with experienced guides, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with nature.

  • Photographic Safaris: Led by professional photographers, these tours are designed to capture Namibia’s stunning landscapes and iconic wildlife at the perfect moment.

Sossusvlei

A Unique Safari Experience in Namibia

Sossusvlei, located in the heart of the Namib Desert, is one of Namibia’s most iconic and breathtaking destinations. Known for its vast red sand dunes, some of the tallest in the world, Sossusvlei offers a surreal and otherworldly landscape that draws photographers and adventurers alike. The name "Sossusvlei" refers to the salt and clay pan surrounded by these towering dunes, which create a dramatic contrast against the deep blue skies. The ever-changing light of sunrise and sunset casts the dunes in shades of gold, orange, and red, providing some of the most spectacular and photogenic landscapes in Africa.

One of the most famous sights within Sossusvlei is Deadvlei, a white clay pan dotted with ancient, dead camelthorn trees, their blackened trunks standing starkly against the bright desert floor and vibrant dunes. Deadvlei, with its eerie and timeless beauty, is a favorite spot for photographers, offering a stunning combination of colors and textures. Another must-see is Dune 45, a towering dune that rises over 170 meters and is accessible for visitors to climb. From the top, panoramic views of the desert stretch out in all directions, offering a unique perspective on the vastness of the Namib.

Despite its harsh environment, Sossusvlei is home to several desert-adapted animals that have evolved to thrive in this arid landscape. Oryx, springbok, and ostriches can often be spotted traversing the dunes, while smaller creatures like the Namib sand gecko and beetles have adapted unique survival strategies. The desert’s wildlife, though sparse, is a testament to the resilience of life in one of the planet’s most extreme environments.

The best time to visit Sossusvlei is during the cooler months from May to September when daytime temperatures are more manageable, and the skies are clear. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for exploring the dunes, as the light during these times creates dramatic shadows and enhances the natural beauty of the landscape. Climbing the dunes or simply walking through the pans during these hours is a serene and awe-inspiring experience, as the silence of the desert amplifies the sense of isolation and grandeur.

Sossusvlei’s unique beauty and its towering, ancient dunes offer a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking a connection with one of the world’s most striking natural landscapes. Whether you're climbing the iconic dunes, photographing the haunting beauty of Deadvlei, or simply soaking in the vastness of the Namib Desert, Sossusvlei is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Namibia.

Desert accommodation in Sossusvlei Namibia on an African safari with Photo Safari Company

Recommended Accommodation in Namibia

Namibia’s safari lodges combine luxury with adventure, offering guests a chance to relax in world-class accommodations while remaining immersed in the country’s natural beauty:

  • Sossusvlei Desert Lodge: Nestled in the Namib Desert, this lodge offers stunning views of the dunes and desert plains. Guests can enjoy guided desert excursions, stargazing, and hot air balloon rides.

  • Onguma Game Reserve: Situated on the eastern side of Etosha National Park, Onguma offers a variety of luxury accommodations, from tents and chalets to exclusive lodges. The reserve is home to over 30,000 hectares of private wilderness, with excellent game viewing, including lions, rhinos, and other iconic African wildlife. Onguma offers a secluded and serene safari experience, with luxurious suites and lodges offering stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

  • Skeleton Coast Camp: A remote camp along Namibia’s haunting Skeleton Coast, offering guided tours to shipwrecks, seal colonies, and dune excursions.

Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast, one of Namibia’s most remote and hauntingly beautiful regions, is a place where the harshness of nature meets the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean. Stretching along Namibia’s northern coastline, the Skeleton Coast is renowned for its desolate beauty, with its endless beaches, rolling dunes, and mysterious shipwrecks that dot the coastline, remnants of vessels lost to the treacherous seas. This rugged and windswept area, often shrouded in dense fog, offers a stark and dramatic contrast to the rest of Namibia’s arid landscapes, creating an unforgettable and eerie atmosphere that captivates those who visit.

Named for the skeletal remains of shipwrecks and bleached whale bones scattered along its shores, the Skeleton Coast has earned a reputation as one of the most inhospitable, yet intriguing places on Earth. The fog that frequently blankets the coastline is caused by the cold Benguela Current meeting the warm desert air, creating dangerous conditions for sailors in the past. Today, these shipwrecks, slowly succumbing to the elements, stand as ghostly monuments to the harshness of the region and the unforgiving nature of the Atlantic Ocean.

Despite its seemingly barren environment, the Skeleton Coast is home to a surprising array of wildlife. Along the coast, visitors can witness the enormous Cape fur seal colonies, particularly at Cape Cross, where thousands of seals gather, their barking calls filling the air. Inland, the desert-adapted elephants, lions, and hyenas roam the dry riverbeds and dunes, having evolved to survive in this harsh, arid landscape. Birdlife is also abundant, with coastal birds such as flamingos and pelicans frequenting the salt pans and lagoons, while further inland, the rare brown hyena can sometimes be spotted.

The landscape of the Skeleton Coast is as varied as it is stark. Inland, rolling sand dunes give way to rocky mountains and gravel plains, creating a dramatic backdrop for exploration. The dry riverbeds, particularly the Hoanib River and Uniab River, provide life-giving water to the region’s wildlife, making them prime locations for game drives and wildlife sightings. The ever-present Atlantic Ocean, with its crashing waves and misty shoreline, adds to the sense of isolation and grandeur that defines the Skeleton Coast.

Impala crossing the Chobe river on an African safari in Botswana with Photo Safari Company

Namibia Safari Tips for Photographers

  • Bring the Right Gear: For wildlife, a telephoto lens (300mm+) is essential, while a wide-angle lens will capture Namibia’s vast landscapes.

  • Golden Hours: Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography, with soft, warm light that enhances the desert scenery.

  • Patience and Timing: Wildlife photography often requires patience. Be prepared to wait for the perfect shot, especially at waterholes in Etosha National Park.

  • Respect Wildlife: Always maintain a safe distance from animals, and avoid disturbing their natural behavior to ensure you leave no impact on their habitat.

Namibia - Seasonal Information

MAY - JUNE

Cool & Dry Season

Autumn / Winter

TEMPERATURES

May - July | Cool

Wintery cool.

WEATHER

Temperatures are cooling down.

Early mornings temps 5°C

Afternoons Mid/high 20°C

Nights 0-5°C.

GAME VIEWING

May - July | Good

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY TIMES

Early mornings & late afternoons.

Night times for full moon photography of the falls.

GAME MOVEMENTS

The bush is beginning to dry out. Water sources in the bush are lessening, therefore game is starting to venture to viewing waterholes.

ANIMALS

Big 5 (Lion, Buffalo, Elephant, Rhino,  Leopard)

Elephant | Antelope | Cats | Hyena | Wild Dog | Birds | Reptiles

JULY - AUGUST

Cool & Dry Season

Autumn / Winter

TEMPERATURES

July - Aug | Cool

Wintery cool.

WEATHER

Temperatures are cooling down.

Early mornings temps 5-10°C

Afternoons Mid/high 20°C

Nights 5°C.

GAME VIEWING

July - Aug | Good

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY TIMES

Early mornings & late afternoons.

Night times for full moon photography of the falls.

GAME MOVEMENTS

The bush is beginning to dry out. Water sources in the bush are lessening, therefore game is starting to venture to viewing waterholes.

ANIMALS

Big 5 (Lion, Buffalo, Elephant, Rhino,  Leopard)

Elephant | Antelope | Cats | Hyena | Wild Dog | Birds | Reptiles

SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER

Hot & Dry Season

Summer

TEMPERATURES

September - November | Hot

Hottest months.

WEATHER

Temperatures are cooling down.

Early mornings temps 15°C

Afternoons Mid/high 30°C

Nights 15°C.

GAME VIEWING

September - November | Exceptional

Best time of the year to see game.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY TIMES

Early mornings & late afternoons.

Night times for nocturnal animals, especially cats and hyena.

GAME MOVEMENTS

The bush is very dry. Water sources in the bush are scarce, therefore game frequent viewing waterholes throughout the day & night.

ANIMALS

Big 5 (Lion, Buffalo, Elephant, Rhino,  Leopard)

Elephant | Antelope | Cats | Hyena | Wild Dog | Birds | Reptiles

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