The Top 8 Fun Things To Do In Namibia

Namibia is known as one of the most picturesque places on Earth, renowned for its vast deserts, spectacular wildlife and otherworldly landscapes. It is a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or some peaceful relaxation, exploring this captivating country will be an unforgettable experience.

Namibia is a country of contrasts, from the towering red sand dunes of Sossusvlei to the rugged beauty of Damaraland and the expansive salt pans of Etosha National Park. One of the most popular activities for those visiting Namibia is to go on a safari, but there are also many other fun-filled activities to keep you entertained.

So come join us on a journey through Namibia and discover all the amazing things it has to offer!

Here are top 8 fun things to do in Namibia while you’re visiting this stunning country.

1. Ride in Hot Air Balloons

A hot air balloon ride in Namibia is an incredible way to experience the country's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. From high above, you'll have a unique and breathtaking perspective of the vast expanses of the Namib Desert. You will soar above lush savannahs, towering sand dunes, and vast desert plains in this unforgettable adventure.

Before your flight, you'll meet your experienced pilot who will provide safety instructions and help you into the basket of the hot air balloon. As the balloon starts to rise, you'll be surrounded by peaceful serenity as you admire the panoramic views from high above. Your pilot may even point out some interesting facts about your flight path as you ascend higher and higher into the sky!

You may also see herds of elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife roaming the savannah below and the occasional predator, such as lions or cheetahs, on the hunt. The aerial view from a hot air balloon provides a peaceful and serene experience, allowing you to take in the beauty of Namibia in a way that's impossible from the ground. 

Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, a hot air balloon ride in Namibia is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Namibia.

2. Fat Tire Bike Rides

Taking a fat tire bike ride in Namibia is an exciting and adventurous way to explore the country's diverse terrain. These bikes are similar to mountain bikes, but you’ll get a lot of traction with their fat tires. With their wide and thick tires, fat bikes can roll effortlessly over sand dunes, rocky plains, and other challenging features. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or new to the sport, you'll be able to enjoy a thrilling ride through some of Namibia's most beautiful landscapes.

Before setting off on your adventure, you'll meet with your guide who will provide safety instructions and help to adjust the bike for your height and preferences. After that, you'll be ready to hit the trails! You'll be able to choose from easy routes that follow well-maintained paths or more difficult ones that take you up steep inclines. Whichever route you decide on, you'll be sure to enjoy all the amazing views along the way.

At the end of your ride, take a moment to admire how far you've come and snap some photos before returning back home with memories that will last a lifetime! Fat tire bike rides offer an incredible way to experience Namibia's natural beauty in a fun and unique way!

3. Riding Quads

Among the fun things to do in Namibia, riding on quads through its vast landscape is a must-do. You’ll be able to travel to areas that cars can’t reach, so you’ll have an up-close view of Swakopmund.

Enjoy the thrill of navigating rocky terrain and sand dunes while taking in the spectacular views all around you. With a variety of routes available, from easy tracks to challenging ones, everyone from beginners to experienced riders can find something that suits their level of skill.

Safety is paramount on any quad ride, so before setting off your guide will provide instructions and help you adjust your vehicle for height and comfort. You'll also be provided with protective clothing and helmets for added safety. Once you're all set, hit the trails! Feel the wind in your hair as you zip along sandy paths or take it slow and savor the beauty of Namibia's stunning scenery.

The clay pan and salt landscape are otherworldly, and you’ll have the best views riding quads and sandboarding across this red dune wonderland.

4. Star Gazing

Star gazing in Sossusvlei is a wonderful way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Namibia at night and surely an event you’ll never forget. Take in a spectacular sunset, enjoy a classic Sundowner, and then marvel at a sky full of brightly shining diamonds. The cooler temperature of the dry night air makes for crystal-clear skies. The stars are brightest during a new moon, so plan your trip when there is less light in the night sky.

With no light pollution, the sky is lit up with stars of every size and intensity. Whether it’s your first time or you’re an experienced astronomer, there’s something special about being able to observe the constellations in their purest form.

Gaze up at the Milky Way and marvel at its brilliance or check out some of the more distant galaxies and nebulae visible in the night sky. If you're lucky, you may even spot a shooting star!

For those new to star-gazing, there are plenty of resources available to help you identify constellations and planets. A number of guided tours run throughout the year, providing valuable information on how to use telescopes and binoculars for maximum viewing pleasure. So grab your equipment, pick a spot and settle in for an unforgettable evening under the stars!

5. Go on a Luxury Safari

Being one of the premier safari travel agencies ourselves, recommending a luxury safari when visiting Namibia is a must! Namibia is home to some of the most incredible wildlife on earth, and visitors to this stunning country have the chance to observe desert adapted animals in their natural habitat whilst on safari.

One of the best ways to catch a glimpse of these amazing animals is on a private guided safari tour. If you think desert star gazing sounds magical, wait until you see these majestic animals up close. Experienced private guides will take you out into the bush and share their knowledge about the various creatures you encounter along the way. Some tours even offer night drives through game reserves, allowing visitors the rare opportunity to observe nocturnal species such as leopards and honey badgers.

You will have an unforgettable experience witnessing firsthand the country's iconic wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. With its breathtaking natural scenery and abundant wildlife, Namibia is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly unique African adventure.

We recommend that you choose a private guide for a personalized trip. You’ll see the sights you’re hoping for and maximize each moment of your safari. Enjoy the comfort of game-viewing vehicles, so your trip has ultimate flexibility. 

Travel along with an elephant herd, but don’t be surprised when one steps behind a tree and disappears. You’ll be stunned by the ability of these giant animals to camouflage within their environment.

6. Visit the Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast is a rugged and remote coast north of Swakopmund known for its stunning scenery and rich history. Desert heat slams into the cooler air from the Atlantic Ocean, forming massive winds and brutal weather. In addition, the Skeleton Coast is known for its treacherous conditions, where many ships have crashed along its shores. So you’ll see the shipwrecks that make this area famous.

For those looking for adventure, there are plenty of exciting activities available. Visitors can choose to go on a guided 4x4 tour through the sand dunes or explore the shipwrecks that have been scattered along the Skeleton Coast since ancient times. There are also plenty of opportunities to take part in fishing or kayaking trips - perfect for making your own discoveries while admiring Namibia's stunning coastal scenery.

This reserve is also home to over 100,000 Cape fur seals and is one of the world's largest seal colonies. You can watch the seals sunbathing, frolicking in the surf, and fishing in the Benguela Current’s cold waters. You might also catch a glimpse of other wildlife such as flamingos, jackals, hyenas, and even elephants!

7. A Cultural Visit With the Himba People

Experience a deeper connection to the land and its people with a cultural visit to Himba communities in Namibia. The Himba people are an ancient, semi-nomadic tribe who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. They are renowned for their unique culture and traditions, which are still practiced today by many living in rural villages across northern Namibia.

The Himbas have a current population of about 50,000. Himba women use a paste of red ochre and fat called otjize to protect their skin from the sun and repel insects. You may have heard them called “red women” since they apply otjize each morning over their bodies and hair.

A visit to these vibrant communities provides a unique opportunity to learn about their way of life from the locals themselves. Guests will be welcomed into traditional homesteads and be able to observe daily activities such as weaving, cooking, and even goat herding! It's also possible to purchase handmade crafts and jewelry directly from the villagers, providing a great way to support local artisans while taking away some truly special souvenirs.

Their homes are made from binding sapling trees, forming a round structure with a domed roof. Builders plaster the sides in dung and mud. Low-impact tourism provides the Himba people with income while allowing outsiders to glimpse their daily lives.

8. Rhino Tracking for Desert-Adapted Black Rhino

Tracking the desert-adapted black rhino is an incredible experience that can be enjoyed in Namibia's remote, arid regions. This species of rhino has adapted to the extreme conditions of their habitat and is found only in three countries in Africa. Tracking these majestic creatures on foot offers a unique opportunity to observe them up close while they go about their daily lives in the wild.

In the 1970s and 80s, Namibia experienced a prolonged drought. In addition, poaching ran rampant, taking a toll on the region’s wildlife. As a result, the black rhino population dipped to dangerously low numbers.

The skillful guides and rangers who lead these tours use their knowledge of the terrain and wildlife behavior to locate and follow the rhinos safely, so that visitors can enjoy a one-of-a-kind wildlife encounter. Along the journey, they will also provide valuable insight into conservation efforts being undertaken by various organizations to protect this endangered species from poaching.

Rhino tracking requires a great deal of patience and perseverance but the rewards are worth it! With luck, guests will have a chance to witness some remarkable natural sights such as baby rhinos playing with their mothers or adult males sparring with each other for dominance. It truly is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed when looking for fun things to do in Namibia!

Plan Your Trip To Namibia Today

From its towering sand dunes and vast desert plains to its lush savannahs and magnificent wildlife, Namibia is sure to take your breath away. With a rich cultural heritage and an abundance of outdoor activities to choose from, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience when visiting Namibia.

Plan your trip to Namibia today with Sundowner Safaris and experience the best of nature and culture in one amazing journey. With our knowledgeable guides, you can traverse the country's breathtaking landscapes in an open-top game viewer and see some of its diverse wildlife up close.

Choose from a variety of other amazing destinations such as Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Rwanda, and South Africa. No matter where you decide to go, our team will be sure to make your trip one you will never forget.

Contact Sundowner Safaris today to start planning an exciting and unforgettable journey of a lifetime. You’ll treasure the sights and memories experienced on this authentic, tailor-made safari. From romantic honeymoons to luxurious family trips, Namibia is the perfect destination to experience the wonders of an African safari.