The Caprivi Strip of Namibia is a curious, narrow panhandle in northern Namibia that thrusts east to the Zambezi River and borders Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. Although geographically small – about 450km long and 100km at its widest – it is land rich in vegetation, and host to both dramatic scenery and some of the best bird and game viewing in Africa.

Hippos wallowing in one of the many rivers of the Caprivi Strip in Namibia (photo by Ute von Ludwiger)

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Posted under General, Namibia, countries, new local connections, whl.travel news

The scenery in Sossusvlei and Southern Namibia is simply breathtaking. The raw beauty of this largely uninhabited area is a huge draw for travellers keen to experience the serenity of barren land and open sky. The vastness of the region’s unforgettable landscapes really does make holidays here spectacular.

The distinctive quiver tree - actually a variety of aloe - stands before an incredible desert vista (photo courtesy of Gandwana Collection)

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Posted under Namibia, countries, new local connections, whl.travel news

By Rachael Harlech-Jones

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Rachael co-owns and operates Cardboard Box Travel Shop, the local whl.travel partner for Windhoek and Central Namibia, Sossusvlei & Southern Namibia and Etosha and Northern Namibia.

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A panoramic view of Erongo's tent chalets nestled among the rocks coloured by darkening skies

Although I know some people love to cram every spare moment with activity, I often feel tourists come away from Namibia requiring another holiday to recover. There are, however, a few lodges that understand not all guests want to rise with the sun and be bundled into a 4×4 for a game drive. Erongo Wilderness Lodge is one such place – one of my favourites in Namibia – and the perfect end to any trip.

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Posted under General, Namibia, countries, responsible organisations, responsible travel

Recognised for its distinctly German design and feel, Windhoek, the capital and biggest city of Namibia, is much appreciated for its orderliness and wonderful European-style café culture. The German influence is also evident in the cuisine and beer, and the architecture of buildings like the Christus Kirche, Tintenpalast (the parliament buildings) and Heinitzburg Castle, all well worth a visit.

Windhoek at night. © Casper Erichsen

Windhoek’s natural setting is also noteworthy, located in the Khomas region in a gorgeous valley of the Central Highlands. This is squarely in the middle of the country, which makes Windhoek perfect as the administrative and commercial centre of the country, as well as the tourist hub from which to begin any Namibian tour or adventure.

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Posted under Namibia, countries, new local connections, whl.travel news

By Rachael Harlech-Jones

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Rachael co-owns and operates Cardboard Box Travel Shop, the local whl.travel partner for Etosha and Northern Namibia, Sossusvlei & Southern Namibia and Windhoek & Central Namibia.

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I am married to a typical Namibian male. His idea of a decent meal includes a large hunk of steak with not a single green substance in sight! Fifteen years ago, when I first arrived in Namibia, I did not really understand the importance meat has in the lives of most Namibians (although it is probably worth mentioning that I was a vegetarian); however, it soon became apparent that Namibia, at least in those days, was not familiar with the term ‘vegetarian’.

Guests at a Herero wedding in Ovitoto, approximately 70km northeast of Okahandja. Herero culture places a lot of importance on cattle.

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Posted under General, Namibia, countries, local tips, opinion, whl.travel newsletter

Etosha National Park and Northern Namibia are far from ordinary. Actually, they’re downright extraordinary. Covering a grand expanse of stark contrasts, Northern Namibia is a vast horizon of wide-open spaces, pristine wilderness, nature reserves, colourful desert and the incredible Skeleton Coast, so called for both its remoteness and many shipwrecks. Now they’re right at the click of a mouse on www.etosha.travel.

The Himba tribe in Kaokoland, Northern Namibia. Photo courtesy of Wilderness Safaris.

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Posted under General, Namibia, countries, new local connections, whl.travel news