Namibia boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in Africa, if not the entire world. Many would argue that the nation’s greatest asset is its vast open spaces, however it’s difficult to pinpoint what makes its landscapes so captivating and inspirational.

Traveling over endlessly deserted roads between geological wonders like the ancient Fish River Canyon and picturesque highlights like the massive red dunes at Sossusvlei will awaken your senses. Although Etosha provides amazing opportunities for wildlife viewing, a few desert-adapted creatures can be seen roaming Namibia’s extensive wilderness areas, which extend well beyond the boundaries of any particular park. Here are some recommendations for activities in Namibia.

1. Observing wildlife at Etosha National Park

When animals gathers around the waterholes during the dry season, Etosha National Park is at its most beautiful. It is common to see a variety of animals drinking together because water is quite limited in this desert region. You may spend the day watching the arrivals and departures of large herds of elephants, zebras, gemsbok, springbok, and even the rare predator instead of driving about in search of action.

2. Scaling Sossusvlei’s Dune 45

Massive crimson dunes can be found deep into the Namib desert. Some of these are the world’s tallest sand dunes, rising more than 300 meters. The dunes that surround well-known pans, including Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei, are the ones that are most frequently photographed. However, the best circumstances for ascending are found at Dune 45, which is 45 kilometers along the route leading to Sossusvlei. It is difficult but well worth the effort to walk over the crest and reach the summit of this sand formation.

3. Looking for Elephants in the Desert

Damaraland’s bleak alpine scenery is reason enough to get there. You wouldn’t anticipate seeing any animals here, much less elephants. However, this large unfenced area is home to a rare population of elephants that have adapted to live in the desert. It’s amazing to watch these enormous desert nomads move purposefully through breathtaking landscapes.

4. Traveling Through Time at Twyfelfontein

The Twyfelfontein Unesco World Heritage Site is another attraction in Namibia. It safeguards one of Africa’s best-preserved rock art sites. More than 2000 prehistoric rock engravings and paintings, some as old as 3300 BC, are interspersed throughout a number of paths.

5. Observing the Canyon of the Fish River

One of Namibia’s top tourist destinations is the Fish River Canyon. It is always spectacular because it is one of the world’s largest canyons, but its real beauty is shown in the early or late hours of the day when the gentle light and playful shadows combine. The main viewpoint is a fantastic place to take a picture, but the 90-kilometer, multi-day climb will give experienced hikers a better idea of the canyon’s size.

6. Traveling to a Kaokoland Himba Village

Namibia’s hostile north is a desolate and stunning region that stretches all the way to the Kunene River on the Angolan border. This place has a very small human footprint. Since their arrival in the region over three centuries ago, the Himba people have maintained a traditional semi-nomadic way of life. One of the top Namibian experiences for the daring tourist is a trip into Kaokoland that includes the chance to see a Himba homestead.

7. Walvis Bay birdwatching

One of the most significant wetland habitats in southern Africa is thought to be the salt pans and lagoon of Walvis Bay. Although there is no lack of desirable species, the wetland’s abundance of birds is what really makes it unique. It is an important sanctuary for migratory birds. The flocks of flamingos are very interesting; their pink colors stand out against the blue waters when thousands of them are eating in the shallows.

8. Seal Observation at Cape Cross

One of Namibia’s top tourist destinations is the breeding colony at Cape Cross. It is home to over 200,000 seals. Youngsters are always getting into trouble, mothers get back together with their children after fishing trips, and large bulls struggle for territories. The sight is overwhelming. One method to get in the middle of it all is by way of a wooden walkway. You might want to remain for hours because there is so much going on. If only you could ignore the noise and the stench.

9. Exploring Lüderitz Town on Foot

Once a bustling mining town, Lüderitz is today a popular travel destination and a peaceful backwater. The Art Nouveau homes’ vibrant paint jobs add some brightness to the otherwise desolate Atlantic shore. Its German colonial past is revealed through a number of museums and historical sites.

10. Taking pictures of the forest of quiver trees

The quiver tree, which resembles a cross between a flower and a tree, gets its name from the branches that bushmen have long used to carry arrows. In the heat of the day, the quiver tree forest in southern Namibia doesn’t seem like much, but as the sun sets, it becomes a picturesque Namib sight. For the ideal silhouette photo, stay till sunset.