Overlanding in Namibia

Sunset at Fish River Canyon - Namibia 2017

Namibia is as barren as it is beautiful.


You'll find the world's second largest canyon here,

as well as some of the Earth's

highest sand dunes.









But you won't find

many people










because the country is covered mostly by unforgiving desert, making Namibia one of the least populated countries.

Still, the intense conditions can't slow down tourists, anxious to experience the natural wonders.

The star attraction is Dune 45 in Sossusvlei. Rising almost 600 feet, it's the most photographed dune on the planet.

The best way to experience the dune is to climb to the top

to witness the sunrise.

Nearby, there's another natural wonder waiting – Deadvlei.

Once, a river sustained these trees, until the climate changed. Eventually, sand dunes built up and blocked the river, leaving the trees cut off from their life source.

The trees died, but the wood can't decompose because of the dry climate.

It's believed that these wooden skeletons have stood here for 600-700 years.







The harsh conditions and vast distances between sights make getting around Namibia a challenge. It's no coincidence that rental cars are equipped with two spare times, rather than one. Breakdowns can become fatal.

That's why I decided to take one of Africa's overland tours. Guests travel in a specially-modified truck, stopping to camp along the way.

It's a great way to meet people from around the world.

And when the inevitable occurs ...

experts are on hand to deal








with the fallout.

I would highly recommend Nomad Africa Adventure Tours, the continent's largest agency. The fees are quite affordable and the guides excellent.

Namibia isn't the most popular country

to visit in Africa.







But it's easy to see why

Namibia 

should be on everyone's African travel list.