RMB and NAGN Bringing Art to Everyone
February 11, 2019
The Plight of the Pangolin
February 15, 2019
Compiled by: Nina van Schalkwyk
Namibia is one of the most romantic countries on the continent, with a variety of places to set hearts alight, from the open spaces of the south, to the lush greenery of the northeast. So before you get absolutely overwhelmed with all things Valentine’s, take a look at our list of the most romantic destinations in Namibia every couple should visit this Valentine’s Day, or whenever!
Cuddle up close at the coast
This one is rather obvious, isn’t it? Namibia’s coastline may not be famous for its tropical waters, but that is exactly why it makes for such a romantic destination. Imagine: cool, cloudy days spent dozing under a luxurious duvet with just the roar of the Atlantic Ocean in the background, with no other structures for kilometres, not another soul in sight. Or this: a walk arm-in-arm through Swakopmund’s quirky streets, appreciating the German colonial-era architecture, stopping for hot chocolate or a traditional beer. Or better yet, if you are an activities-loving couple, go quad biking, surfing, sand boarding or skydiving.
Our pick: Strand Hotel (Swakopmund), and Shipwreck Lodge (Skeleton Coast).
Bring out your wild nature
A trip to Namibia is never complete without a visit to Etosha National Park. Explore the Etosha Pan with a guided game drive or with your own wheels. Seek out the flicking ears of fiesty big cats as they lounge camouflaged in the shade. Watch the power-struggle at the waterhole between the park’s elephants and the equally large temper of the rhinos. Enjoy the sunset over this ancient landscape with a refreshing G’n’T in hand.
Our pick: There are a number of lodges and campsites scattered throughout the park and along its periphery, catering to everything from ultra chill campsites like NWR’s Olifantsrus Resort, lower-key spots like Gondwana’s Etosha Safari Lodge, to the decadent Villa Mushara by The Mushara Collection. Ongava Game Reserve also receives the top nod from us, as does Mokuti Etosha Lodge.
Off the grid and off the beaten track
Far from civilization, a visit to the Kaokoland in Namibia’s north-west feels as if one is standing on the edge of the world. Stretches from the banks of the Kunene to the fringes of the Skeleton Coast, the Kaokoland touches the western border of Etosha National Park before reaching the rocky hills of Damaraland. Visit a nomadic Himba village, track the ever elusive rhinos and follow in the path of desert-adapted elephant.
Our pick: Wilderness Safaris’ Serra Cafema, and Kunene River Lodge.
Za-za-za Zambezi
The brightly verdant swath of the Zambezi makes a startling contrast to an otherwise arid landscape. A romantic trip to this northeastern strip of lush floodlands and meandering waterways means boat trips along the river in the golden light of the late afternoon and sundowners on isolated islands.
Our pick: Chobe Water Villas, Nambwa Tented Lodge and Kazile Island Lodge
You might also enjoy reading: Top 10 Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in Namibia
Ancient worlds uncovered
The soul of Namibia lies in Twyfelfontein, a place that’s held a special kind of magic for 6000 years. Explore an area that has one of the largest concentrations of rock petroglyphs or engravings in the world. The guided tours of this UNESCO World Heritage Site are sure to bring up discussion on the nature of humankind, the past and the future. Perhaps this is the perfect time for a romantic reflection of your future together? *Wink*
Our pick: Mowani, Doro Nawas, Damaraland Camp, and Erongo Wilderness Lodge.
Back to the centre
Take the master of your heart to the heart of Namibia with a visit to Namibia’s capital city. There’s always something happening or something to do in Windhoek.
Take a walk through the city centre, share a milkshake at a street-side café or make a toast to Namibia’s famous sunsets from the terrace of one of the many hotels with views over the city.
Our pick: Hotel Heinitzburg, and River Crossing Lodge.
Uploaded 14 February 2019.
