NAMIB DESERT NAMIBIA
S W A K O P M U N D, W A LV I S B AY, A N D T H E N A M I B D E S E R T, NAMIBIA S U N D AY A N D M O N D AY, J A N U A R Y 6 A N D 7
Wedged between the Kalahari Desert and the southern Atlantic Ocean, Namibia’s spectacular landscapes include swirling desert dunes, deep red clay pans, and dramatic seascapes. In Walvis Bay, take a thrilling flight-seeing tour by local aircraft over the legendary Skeleton Coast. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of one of the most unforgettable sights on Earth: the meeting of the dunes of the Namib Desert, among the highest in the world, with the roaring Atlantic surf. Shrouded in sea mist, this vast stretch of sand north of Walvis Bay has had countless shipwrecks and whale bones wash up on its shores— haunting reminders of a long and perilous maritime history. Choose from two desert adventure options. Journey through the ancient canyons of the Moon Valley in the Namib Desert and see the famous Welwitschia mirabilis, a rare and curious plant that is several hundred years old. With luck, we may also see animals gathering along the linear oases of desert riverbeds that crisscross the Namib. Or travel in 4x4s through the stark landscape inhabited by fascinating creatures such as fish moths, white lady spiders, web-footed geckos, sand-diving lizards, sidewinder snakes, and more. The next morning, cruise the avian paradise of the Walvis Bay lagoon to see flamingos, penguins, and pelicans. Look to the water for bottlenose and Heaviside’s dolphins as well as Cape fur seals, which are known to cavort around boats. Strand Hotel Swakopmund
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CALL 1-800-224-1894 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM
HIMBA WOMAN WITH TR ADITIONAL DRESS NAMIBIA
YOUR TRIP MAKES A DIFFERENCE The National Geographic Society funds research, conservation, and exploration, including projects led by our grantees in Namibia. The Society has helped support studies on giraffe behavior in Etosha National Park, a community-based initiative in the Zambezi region to mitigate human-lion conflict, and a program to bring sustainable energy to rural communities.
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