Namibia

This is Namibia, a Southern African country home to the eponymous Namib Desert, an incredible stretch of desert that runs the full length of the country’s Atlantic coastline. At times an inhospitable climate, the highlights include Sossusvlei, with its black dead trees highlighted against red dunes, and the dramatic dunes that collide with the ocean at Sandwich Harbour and the aptly named Skeleton Coast. Most of all, Namibia is known for its wildlife – creatures that have adapted to the desert climate, such as desert elephants and black rhinos.

The capital city of Windhoek is the likely starting point of your trip. It’s one of the rare African capitals where German colonial architecture is present, and there’s no better example than the Lutheran Christus Church. Besides that, it’s also distinctly modern and provides you with the comforts of home before you step foot into Namibia’s gorgeous wilderness. One of the greatest attractions in Namibia is the Etosha National Park. Fairly developed, considering you can view its enormous salt pan from space, there are many opportunities for eco-tourism throughout its deep wilderness. Finally, the dramatic landscapes of Damaraland are a sight to see; the striking rock formations of Erongo, Brandberg and Spitzkoppe are all mesmerising.