by: James Weis
Situated between the Kalahari Desert and the South Atlantic Ocean along the southeastern shoreline of Africa, Namibia is known for its contrasting landscapes including deserts, seascapes, boundless plateaus and rock canyons. In addition to its vast array of rich natural resources, Namibia features a solid contemporary infrastructure as well as diverse traditional cultures -- it is a magnificent country to visit.
Land of Contrasting Landscapes
Namibia is home to the desolate Namib Desert, with its high dunes and extraordinary sense of space, which is said to be the oldest desert in the world. In fact, it is estimated that the Namib is as much as 80 million years old. Namibia also boasts the second largest canyon in the world (next to the Grand Canyon), the Fish River Canyon. This enormous gorge spans a distance of approximately 160 kilometers. Formed around 500 million years ago, the gorge was created by water erosion coupled with the collapse of the valley bottom due to movements in the earth's crust. The canyon is part of a Nature Conservation Park and has become a popular hiking destination featuring a path of roughly 86 kilometers.
The central plateau, with its thorn bush savannah and jagged mountains, rises unexpectedly from the plains. In the northern area of the country, landscapes include everything from the dense bush and open plains of the great Etosha Pan, to wooded savannah bursting with lush vegetation.
Sometimes known as the “country of contrast,” Namibia not only offers the safari adventurer amazingly diverse landscapes but also an ample amount of wildlife (the world’s highest concentration of wild cheetah and almost 70 percent of the continent’s birds), enormous vistas and a population that speaks more than 16 languages and dialects.
Where else in the world can you experience such unsurpassed beauty and diverse landscapes complemented by a truly spectacular coastline? In addition, the timelessness of this country is reflected in dinosaur footprints preserved in sandstone, prehistoric rock art, and the ancient fossil plant, Welwitschia mirabilis. If you’re a photographer, Namibia is like heaven on earth.
Namibian Wildlife
In addition to the vast array of natural beauty that makes Namibia such a perfect choice for a safari, it is also the natural habitat for a wide variety of endangered species including the Puku antelope (occurring in Namibia’s Caprivi area), the Orbi and the Black Rhino. In fact, there are more than 20 species of antelope in Namibia including the Eland and the Gemsbok. In the seaside retreat of Swakopmund, you can take a boat journey and view seals, dolphins, whales and penguins.
Although Namibia is probably the least known of the Southern African countries, the attractions and topography are unlike anywhere else in the world. When you go on safari in Namibia, you will experience the opportunity to explore culture, wildlife and landscapes that will leave a lasting impression.
About The Author
James Weis
Eyes on Africa, an African safari company, boasts an extremely knowledgeable team of staff members, who are passionate about every aspect of travel to Southern Africa, including its wildlife and safari destinations. When you're ready to plan your African safari, a holiday in Africa, or if you just have questions, please feel free to contact us toll free at 800-457-9575 or visit our web site at www.eyesonafrica.net/contactus.htm and complete an information request form.
1 comment:
I would love to travel to Namibia one day and found your article very interesting to read!
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