15 fascinating facts about the Namibia deserts

27th May, 2023

The Namibia deserts are absolutely fascinating! If you are planning a trip to Namibia or you are simply interested to learn more about the deserts here, then I have you covered in this article,. Keep reading to learn all about the Namibia deserts…

Facts About the Namibia deserts

Ever wondered what it’s like to come face-to-face with the wildlife that calls Namibia deserts its home?

The stunning landscapes of these deserts are full of surprises and secrets, with a wide variety of animals. From the oldest desert, the Namib, to the beauty of the Skeleton Coast, these lands are a treat to watch for an adventurous tourist.

But what are things that you must know before your visit? Look no further. Here are 15 fascinating facts about the Namibia Deserts that will leave you in awe. Be sure to take the time to explore this amazing area and discover the secrets it holds.

1- The Oldest Desert in the World

The deserts of Namibia hold a reputation for being the oldest landscapes in the world. One example is the Namib desert. It is estimated that this desert is dated back at least 55-80 million years. 

This dry region is a great place to explore and experience the wonders of nature. Here, you will find a variety of wildlife, a vast expanse of dunes, and one of the harshest conditions on Earth. But don’t let that discourage you.

This desert is also full of mystery and adventure, and you will have an unforgettable experience. So, grab your sunscreen and camera, and get ready to discover the secrets of this desert.

2- Highest Sand Dunes

Namibia deserts are home to some large and tall dunes. The highest dune of the desert is known as Dune 7.

It was formed over thousands of years by the wind blowing sand from the beach. These winds are still active today, continuously reshaping the area.

Located in Walvis Bay, this sand dune has a height of 383 metres. You can enjoy the unreal attraction, orange horizon, and incredible views from the top of this highest dune.

3- Namibia’s Sossusvlei

Namibia’s Sossusvlei is one of the most picturesque deserts in the world. Located in the Namib desert, it is a large salt and clay pan. Some of the highest dunes in the world surround this dried land.

The area contains the famous Dead Vlei, a space filled with skeletal dead trees, giving the site an otherworldly feel.

The Sossusvlei is also an excellent place for adventurers to explore. You can find plenty of activities, such as sandboarding, camel rides, and guided 4×4 tours.

The nearby Namib-Naukluft National Park is another great site to visit, with its rolling dunes and canyons.

It’s common to encounter a desert storm or two during your stay. Therefore, you should take the necessary precautions. In short, It’s no surprise that Namibia’s Sossusvlei has become a popular destination for tourists worldwide.

4- The Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast is a breathtaking and extraordinary destination located in Namibia. As you travel along the coastline, you will be struck by the contrast between the icy Atlantic Ocean and the scorching Namib Desert.

Along the way, you may spot the remains of ships and whale bones bleached by the sun, earning the region its strange name.

Despite its dangerous reputation, the Skeleton Coast has a wealth of wildlife and offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for visitors. Just be sure to exercise caution and follow the guidance of local authorities while exploring this captivating region.

5- Amazing Sunsets

The Namib Desert is one of the most spectacular places to witness a stunning sunset. With its vast, undulating dunes, it is truly a sight to behold.

This desert is situated in southwestern Africa and has many breathtaking sunset scenarios. As the day fades away, the sky lights up in vibrant orange and red shades, painting a majestic landscape.

When the sun slowly descends, it will leave a beautiful sky filled with lively colors and textures that will stay with you forever. The Namib Desert is the perfect place to take in this lovely phenomenon.

6- Rich Flora and Fauna

Namibia deserts are renowned for their rich biodiversity. With scarce water and rain, the flora and fauna of this desert have evolved to survive in this harsh environment. The iconic long-necked oryxes are the best example of this thing. They have specially adapted long necks to help lower their heads to the ground to dig for food and water.

Furthermore, you can find many unique animal species. These include the elephants as well as the highly endangered Hartmann’s mountain zebra.

The desert also holds a treasure of avian species, such as the endangered Damara tern and the near-threatened sociable weavers. Other species of birds found in the desert are the Ruppell’s Korhaan, Stark’s lark, and Bradfield’s hornbill.

Besides, Namibia deserts also have a good diversity of reptiles. Some notable examples are the endangered Namib dark-footed gecko, the Namaqua chameleon, and the Namib sand snake.

Let’s talk about plant species. This desert also has a variety of succulent plants which can survive in the dry climate. These plants can store water in their leaves and stems, which allows them to survive in the harsh conditions of the desert. A few famous examples include Tumboa, Quiver tree, Ice plant, and Damara milk bush.

7- World’s Most Phenomenal Rock Formations

Namibia deserts have awe-inspiring rock formations. A few famous examples of the area are the distinctive Spitzkoppe that towers above its surroundings and the mysterious Koichab dunes.

The landscapes are filled with giant sandstone canyons, towering dunes, and other incredible geological structures. These rocks are sure to deliver whether you’re looking for the best sunset spot or the perfect backdrop for a photo shoot.

For hours, you can explore and photograph these natural wonders with various shapes and textures. So, don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity while visiting Namibia deserts.

8- The Biggest Population of Desert Elephants

The largest population of desert elephants is found in Namibia deserts. When visiting this spectacular part of the world, don’t miss the chance to witness these desert-adapted elephants.

It is said that more than 350 elephants are present in this driest part of the world. These marvellous creatures have larger feet and thick-wide skin that help them to survive in the challenging conditions of Namibia.

On top of that, they also conserve the desert ecosystem by helping keep the vegetation and grasses balanced. Get ready to witness these incredible animals in their natural habitat as they roam across the desert for food and water.

9- Endangered Black-faced Impala

Namibia deserts have the endangered black-faced impala, one of the most impressive species in the desert. This impala is a medium-sized antelope with a black face and a gray-brown body. Its horns are slender, curved, and pointed.

These animals live in small herds and feed on grasses, shrubs, and herbs. They were declared endangered species in 1970.

Black-faced impalas are most active during the late afternoon and early evening. They rely on their speed and agility to escape predators like lions and hyenas. For tourists visiting Namibia, the black-faced impala is a must-see wildlife species.

10- World’s Largest Free-Roaming Population of Cheetahs

Namibia deserts are home to the world’s largest free-roaming population of cheetahs. This vast and sparsely populated African country has quite beautiful wildlife on the planet.

Cheetahs are iconic species. Seeing them in their natural environment is a great experience. With so much open space, they have plenty of room to roam and can be spotted in the open plains, grasslands, and deserts.

The Namibian government has taken significant steps to protect cheetahs. These include setting aside land for their conservation. Tourists can go on safari and enjoy the thrill of seeing these cats in their natural habitat.

For those looking for memorable moments, a few volunteer opportunities are available to assist with cheetah conservation.

11- Rich History and Culture

Namibia Deserts have some of the fascinating deserts in the world, each with a unique history. From the Namib to the Kalahari, a tour of Namibia’s deserts is an unforgettable experience.

The country’s deserts have plenty of ancient settlements. Plus, you can find the ruins of the oldest human civilizations in the area.

Moreover, the desert terrain has many natural landscapes, including dunes, canyons, and salt pans. For those interested in the local culture, the desert is dotted with old tribes and their traditional settlements.

Here one can observe the customs and rituals distinctive to the region. Whether for adventure, history, or culture, a tour of Namibia’s deserts will be unforgettable.

12- Temperature Fluctuations of the Area

The Namibian desert is known for its extreme temperature fluctuations. During the day, temperatures can reach up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature can drop drastically at night, sometimes even dipping below freezing.

These temperature swings can be quite a shock to visitors who are not prepared. It is important to pack accordingly and dress in layers to ensure you are comfortable no matter what the thermometer says.

13- Namibia’s NamibRand Nature Reserve

NamibRand Nature Reserve is a spectacular sight to behold. This beautiful reserve spans over 200,000 hectares in the country’s south. It consists of breathtaking dunes, mountains, and plains encompassing its entirety.

The reserve contains a wide variety of wildlife, making it an excellent destination for those who enjoy wildlife viewing. Examples of the famous animals of the area are the gemsbok, the elegant springbok, the shy bat-eared fox, and the threatened black rhino.

Watch Namibia deserts landscape and wildlife by visiting the NamibRand Nature Reserve. This place will surely be a memorable experience with its vast, untouched beauty.

14- Source of Tourism Revenue for Namibia

Namibia’s deserts are an increasingly popular tourist destination, providing a significant source of income for the country. According to a 2021 report, these deserts contribute over N$5.2 billion to Nambia’s economy.

From the dunes of Sossusvlei to the rocky plains of Damaraland, visitors can marvel at the beauty of Namibia’s deserts. They can also participate in quad biking, hot-air ballooning, and camel riding.

Tourists can also explore the ancient rock art of Twyfelfontein, visit the Himba people of Kaokoland, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Fish River Canyon.

Namibia deserts also provide an uncommon cultural background, and the country’s vibrant wildlife is another attraction for visitors. Whether for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled family holiday, these deserts will be a memorable adventure.

15- Critically Endangered Black Rhinos

Namibia deserts also house endangered species of Black Rhinos. This creature is a symbol of the African continent. You can find them grazing in the deserts’ dry and sparsely wooded savannahs.

The Namibian government has taken steps to protect these animals. They have created several conservation areas and launched anti-poaching campaigns. But even with these efforts, the population of Black Rhinos is still declining.

Tourists can participate in safaris that offer a chance to view these animals in their natural habitat. This will give you insights into the lives of these animals.

The Namibia Deserts- To Conclude

The Namibia Deserts offer a unique and breathtaking experience like no other. You can find many things in this area, from the rolling red sand dunes to the unique wildlife.

With its hot and dry climate, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, it is no wonder why these deserts are such an attractive destination for tourists. Whether you want to know about rare wildlife or ancient cultures, we have summarised everything in this list of 15 fascinating facts about Namibia deserts.

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