At around 55 million years old The Namib is the world’s oldest desert. Such an age means that there has been an awful long time for the flora and fauna to adapt and evolve into some of the most unique life forms on our planet. Add to this a weathered world of dune, rock and mountain, skirted by an unforgiving coastline, and you have a safari destination that begs exploration. Amidst the seemingly desolate landscape rise wells and ancient riverbeds that bring life-sustaining waters to likes of Elephant, Giraffe, Antelope, Rhino, and even Lion.

Whether it’s the diversity, and density, of wildlife in Etosha National Park, or the massive red dunes of Soussesvlei, or the chance to track Black Rhino on foot, or the mariners’ graveyard of the Skeleton Coast, Namibia’s desert wilderness has something for every adventurer’s appetite.

Last Chance Safaris works with the best guides and operators that know the desert’s secret places and whose unique Namib charisma sets the journey apart. Whether you choose to drive and camp, or fly and glamp, our bespoke journeys will leave you wanting to return to drink from that desert well once again.

The Namib Desert: A Timeless Landscape of Sand and Stone

The Namib Desert is a place of extremes, where towering dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean, and life finds a way to thrive against all odds. Stretching over 2,000 kilometers along the western coast of Namibia, it is considered the world’s oldest desert, with a history spanning over 55 million years. Its vast, haunting beauty captivates adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

A Landscape Like No Other

The Namib is famous for its striking landscapes, where endless waves of red and orange sand dunes contrast against clear blue skies. Some of its most iconic locations include:

• Sossusvlei & Deadvlei – Home to the tallest sand dunes on Earth, including the mighty Big Daddy and Dune 45, these surreal clay pans are dotted with the skeletal remains of ancient camel thorn trees.

• Skeleton Coast – A wild, treacherous stretch of coastline where shipwrecks and bleached whale bones tell tales of nature’s raw power.

• Namib-Naukluft National Park – One of the largest protected areas in Africa, offering rugged mountains, rolling dunes, and rare wildlife.

• Spitzkoppe – A granite peak that rises dramatically from the desert floor, providing excellent hiking and photography opportunities.

Survival in the Sands: Namib’s Unique Wildlife

Despite its arid conditions, the Namib Desert supports a surprising array of wildlife that has adapted to its harsh environment:

• Oryx (Gemsbok) – The desert’s most iconic antelope, perfectly designed for extreme heat with its striking black-and-white facial markings.

• Namib Desert Beetle – An ingenious survivor that collects moisture from early morning fog on its shell.

• Welwitschia Mirabilis – A bizarre, ancient plant that can live for over a thousand years, endemic to the Namib.

• Desert-Adapted Elephants and Lions – Found in the dry riverbeds of the Kunene region, these remarkable animals have evolved to withstand long periods without water.

Activities in the Namib Desert

• Dune Climbing – Take on the challenge of scaling Dune 45 or Big Daddy for unparalleled sunrise views.

• Scenic Flights – Witness the breathtaking landscapes from above, including the vast sea of sand and the desolate Skeleton Coast.

• Quad Biking & Sandboarding – Experience the thrill of speeding down soft dunes in Swakopmund.

• Hot Air Ballooning – Float above the desert at dawn for a truly unforgettable perspective.

• 4x4 Desert Safaris – Explore the endless dunes, rugged mountains, and ephemeral rivers with expert guides.

Cultural Encounters: The People of the Namib

The Namib Desert is home to indigenous groups like the San (Bushmen) and Himba people, who have lived in harmony with the desert for centuries. Visitors can learn about their traditional ways of life, survival techniques, and deep-rooted connection to the land.

Why Visit the Namib Desert?

The Namib Desert is a place of contrasts—where towering dunes meet the sea, where life endures against all odds, and where time seems to stand still. Whether you're drawn by adventure, photography, or the sheer wonder of the landscape, this desert promises an experience unlike any other.

Plan your journey to the Namib with Last Chance Safaris and uncover the magic of one of the world’s most ancient and mesmerizing wildernesses.