The Camping Files: Chrisna Greeff

In this, our first instalment, we have a chat with businesswoman and compulsive traveller, Chrisna Greeff, who lets us in on how the camping bug first bit, her favourite spots to pitch a tent, and her least favourite camping trends right now. Read on and get inspired to hit the road and explore Namibia’s wild side.

My earliest camping experience was to the Kaokoland in 1985 with an old Series 3 Land Rover, my sister, cousins and friends.

Our camping style has changed a lot since those days. On that first trip we only had illegal topographical maps, a trunk full of ice blocks, no tents and not enough film rolls.

The best thing about camping is the spirit of adventure that you get from it. It’s getting away from everything. The sights and sounds of nature. And the company of family and friends.

I try to take short trips within Namibia throughout the year, and every second year a longer trip to other parts of Africa, which usually lasts six weeks.

A trip to Ethiopia in 2011 through East Africa and back along the shores of Lake Turkana and northern Kenya was one of my favourites. We experienced exotic culture, unbelievable scenery and rich history.

My favourite Namibian camping destinations are Damaraland and Kaokoland, because they are remote, rugged and incredibly beautiful.

The right camping companion is adventurous, relaxed and easygoing. They never panic and can keep a sense of humour when things go wrong.

I would have loved to go on an expedition with the Victorian-era explorer, David Livingstone.

My tips to first-time campers in Namibia: do proper research, do not travel alone in remote areas, have more water than what you think you need, drive in 4×4 mode off road all the way, stay on the tracks and always take out what you took in.