 |
The Natural Wonders of Namibia Namibia is a place of great natural wonder, located on the Western Southern Coast of Africa. The Atlantic Ocean borders the country on the west, South Africa to the south, Botswana and Zimbabwe to the east, as well as Angola and Zambia to the north of the country. Officially called the Republic of Namibia, it gained its independence from South Africa in 1990, and now is a member of the United Nations. This country is so named because of the Namib Desert, and is second in lowest population density, just behind Mongolia. Nestled between the Kalahari Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, Namibia is one of the most diverse destinations in Africa. The four main topographical regions are the Kalahari Desert that borders along South Africa and Botwana, The Coastal Plains and Namib Desert in the west, The Central Plateau, and a heavily wooded bushveld of the Caprivi and Kavango regions. While Namibia may have a somewhat harsher climate in areas, it also has many of the world's greatest National Parks. There is the Namib-Naukluft Park, which consists mainly of desert plains and dune fields in Western Namibia. In the Northwest, there is an abundance of wildlife in Etosha National Park. At the geographic heart of the country where the nerve center of commerce is located lies the capitol city of Windhoek, in the Central Highlands. Those people who are drawn to the beaches and the surf will want to experience the wonders and excitement of Swakopmund. Etosha National Park, also known as the 'Great White Place of Dry Water,' is approximately 23,000 square kilometers, and surrounds the white and greenish colored Etosha Pan, its namesake. If you want to see an abundance of different kinds of wildlife, then this is the place to go in Namibia. This vast park protects over 340 different species of birds, 114 different kinds of mammals, over 16 different amphibians and reptiles, fish species, and countless insects. Park boundaries have changed many times and in order to protect natural habitats, only two thirds of the Eastern part of the park is open to the general public. The western third can only be accessed with a tour guide. The roads in the eastern part of the park can be accessed with any kind of vehicle, and there are many different kinds of rest camps here offering lodging, shopping and information, as well as maps of the area. You need to check in at the Andersson or Lindequist centers and get a mandatory day permit that will cost you around 3.50 US dollars or thirty cents per person, and $2.50 for each vehicle. You have to reserve your camps ahead of time and present your permits when you arrive. If you are looking to experience the diversity of cultures in this country, then a trip to the city of Windhoek is a must. This small German influenced capitol city is the central nerve system of all of Namibia. Nestled in the low hills of the Central Highlands, this city is at an elevation of 1660 meters, with clean and dry air, and a healthy climate. The optimistic outlook of this city is an example for all the rest of Africa. One walk on the city's street will give you a great look at the country's different ethnic cultures with native tribes such as the Owambo, Herero, Damara, and other people mixed in with Europeans, all working together in perfect harmony. There are many other attractions here. This country has one of the largest cheetah populations in Africa, as well as desert elephants. You will find just about any wildlife experiences, and you will want to come back again and again. The people, the scenery and the spectacular views draw thousands of tourists to this region every year, and it is an experience of a lifetime. If you are an avid beach goer, then Swakopund is the place for you. Sometimes described as more German than even Germany, this is one of the most popular destinations for the holidays, not just for foreigners, but also for people from all over Southern Africa as well. There are tons of things to do here, and this resort by the ocean has recently been renamed as the Adventure sport capitol of Namibia. There are plenty of different adventures to choose from here. Whether you are an avid surfer, both in the ocean as well as sliding down the sand dunes, you will find it here. There are opportunities to skydive, go on a camel safari, or even race on a four wheeler through the sand and seas; you will find opportunities everywhere. With all the different regions and activities that Namibia has to offer, it is no wonder why this country has so many different visitors each year. No matter what time of the year, you will find an opportunity to enjoy all that this country has to offer. If this country is some place that you want to visit, there are many different websites available to help you plan the ultimate vacation. You do need to plan ahead, and realize that because this area lies below the equator, that the seasons are opposite than the Northern Hemisphere. Namibia, a place like no other....
|
