Namib-Naukluft National Park
Namib-Naukluft Overview
Namib-Naukluft National Park, sprawling across the heart of Namibia, is one of the largest conservation areas in Africa and arguably one of the most astonishing landscapes on the planet. Encompassing an area of approximately 49,768 square kilometers (19,216 square miles), the park embodies a vast section of the Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world, as well as the Naukluft mountain range. Established in its current form in 1979, the park combines the Namib Desert Park, founded in 1907, with the Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park, showcasing the diverse range of environments within Namibia’s borders.
The park’s landscapes are incredibly varied, featuring towering sand dunes in the Sossusvlei area, some of which are among the highest in the world, reaching almost 400 meters (1,300 feet). The iconic Deadvlei, with its ancient, dead camel thorn trees set against a backdrop of stark, orange dunes and brilliant blue skies, offers one of the most photographed scenes in southern Africa. Beyond the dunes, the park extends into the rugged Naukluft Mountains and the expansive gravel plains and canyons of the Namib Desert, offering breathtaking vistas and solitude.
Namib-Naukluft is not only a place of sheer beauty but also of significant ecological and geological interest. Despite the arid environment, the park supports a variety of life adapted to harsh desert conditions, including the unique Welwitschia mirabilis plants, reptiles, and small mammals. The area is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with species such as the dune lark making their home in the desert.
Activities within the park cater to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, including hiking, photography, scenic drives, and hot air balloon rides that offer spectacular views of the desert landscape at sunrise. The Namib-Naukluft National Park is a testament to the natural beauty and diversity of Namibia, offering visitors a profound sense of awe and a deep connection with the ancient landscapes of the Namib Desert.
Park Map
Namib-Naukluft National Park Highlights
Birds
Namib-Naukluft National Park hosts a diverse avian population, with over 200 species adapted to the desert environment, each showcasing unique behaviors and adaptations.
Lappet-faced Vulture: Majestic and formidable, Lappet-faced vultures soar high above the desert landscapes, scavenging for carrion with their powerful beaks and keen eyesight.
Pale Chanting Goshawk: Agile and opportunistic, Pale chanting goshawks perch atop acacia trees, scanning the desert floor for prey and displaying impressive aerial maneuvers during courtship displays.
Greater Flamingo: Graceful and striking, greater flamingos gather in saline lakes and pans, filtering algae and plankton through specialized bill structures while creating vibrant pink spectacles against the arid backdrop.
Secretary Bird: Majestic and efficient, secretary birds stalk through the grasslands, using their long legs and sharp beaks to hunt insects, small mammals, and reptiles with precision strikes.
White-backed Vulture: Bold and sociable, white-backed vultures congregate around carcasses, using their powerful beaks to tear through tough hides and scavenging alongside other vulture species.
Cape Cormorant: Agile and aquatic, Cape cormorants dive into coastal waters, propelling themselves with webbed feet to hunt for fish and crustaceans in the nutrient-rich Benguela Current.
Namaqua Sandgrouse: Resilient and nomadic, Namaqua sandgrouse traverse the desert in search of water, relying on specialized breast feathers to transport precious liquid to their chicks in secluded nesting sites.
Rosy-faced Lovebird: Colorful and social, rosy-faced lovebirds gather in noisy flocks, feasting on seeds and fruits while navigating the rocky terrain with agility and grace.
Kori Bustard: Stately and elusive, Kori bustards blend seamlessly into the desert landscape, utilizing their impressive size and cryptic plumage to avoid predators while foraging for insects and small vertebrates.
Black-chested Snake Eagle: Stealthy and powerful, black-chested snake eagles perch on high vantage points, scanning the terrain for snakes and lizards before swooping down to capture their prey with precision talon strikes.
Predators
Namib-Naukluft National Park hosts a diverse array of predators, vital to the park’s ecosystem. These apex predators play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of the desert environment.
African Leopard: Stealthy and elusive, African leopards roam the rocky outcrops and canyons of the park, preying on smaller mammals and occasionally scavenging from larger kills.
Spotted Hyena: Highly adaptable and social, spotted hyenas patrol the desert plains in search of prey, often working together in clans to bring down larger animals or scavenge from carcasses.
Cape Fox: Small and agile, cape foxes are skilled hunters of rodents and insects, using their keen senses and swift movements to navigate the arid terrain and secure their meals.
Caracal: Graceful and solitary, caracals are elusive predators that stalk the park’s dunes and rocky slopes, preying on small mammals and birds with their impressive speed and agility.
Black-backed Jackal: Opportunistic and cunning, black-backed jackals are scavengers and hunters, often trailing larger predators to feed on their kills or hunting small prey on their own.
Cheetah: Swift and powerful, cheetahs are rare inhabitants of the park, relying on their incredible speed and stealth to chase down prey across the desert plains.
African Wild Dog: Social and highly efficient hunters, African wild dogs roam the park in packs, working together to pursue and bring down antelope and other small to medium-sized mammals.
Bat-eared Fox: Nocturnal and insectivorous, bat-eared foxes emerge at night to hunt termites and other insects, using their large ears to detect prey beneath the desert sand.
Brown Hyaena: Solitary and elusive, brown hyaenas scavenge on the outskirts of the park, feeding on carrion and occasionally hunting small mammals and reptiles in the desert landscape.
African Caracal: Elusive and solitary, African caracals stalk the park’s savannah and rocky terrain, preying on small mammals and birds with their powerful leaps and sharp claws.
Popular
Namib-Naukluft National Park boasts an extraordinary diversity of wildlife beyond its predators, each species adapted to survive in the harsh desert environment.
Oryx: Majestic and resilient, oryx roam the arid plains, equipped with long, straight horns and specialized hooves to endure the desert’s challenges, grazing on tough desert grasses.
Springbok: Agile and iconic, springbok traverse the vast desert landscapes in herds, showcasing impressive pronking displays and surviving on sparse vegetation and water sources scattered across the park.
Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra: Hardy and striking, Hartmann’s mountain zebras navigate the rugged terrain of the park’s mountainous regions, utilizing their unique striping patterns for camouflage and social recognition.
Klipspringer: Nimble and sure-footed, klipspringers inhabit rocky outcrops and cliffs, using their specialized hooves to navigate steep terrain and grazing on a variety of shrubs and herbs.
Greater Kudu: Elegant and elusive, greater kudu roam the desert valleys and riverine forests, with their impressive spiral horns and cryptic coloration providing defense against predators and rivals.
Cape Ground Squirrel: Curious and adaptable, Cape ground squirrels are common residents of the park, foraging for seeds, roots, and insects while evading predators with their swift movements and burrow systems.
African Elephant: Iconic and resilient, African elephants traverse the park’s dry riverbeds and savannahs, relying on their keen sense of smell to locate water sources and their impressive strength to manipulate vegetation.
Gemsbok: Regal and hardy, gemsbok are well-adapted to the desert environment, relying on their endurance and ability to withstand high temperatures while foraging for sparse vegetation.
Bat-eared Fox: Nocturnal and insectivorous, bat-eared foxes emerge at night to hunt termites and other insects, using their large ears to detect prey beneath the desert sand.
Cape Fur Seal: Playful and gregarious, Cape fur seals inhabit the coastal areas of the park, forming large colonies on rocky shores and feeding on fish and other marine life in the cold Atlantic waters.
Birds
Namib-Naukluft National Park hosts a diverse avian population, with over 200 species adapted to the desert environment, each showcasing unique behaviors and adaptations.
Lappet-faced Vulture: Majestic and formidable, Lappet-faced vultures soar high above the desert landscapes, scavenging for carrion with their powerful beaks and keen eyesight.
Pale Chanting Goshawk: Agile and opportunistic, Pale chanting goshawks perch atop acacia trees, scanning the desert floor for prey and displaying impressive aerial maneuvers during courtship displays.
Greater Flamingo: Graceful and striking, greater flamingos gather in saline lakes and pans, filtering algae and plankton through specialized bill structures while creating vibrant pink spectacles against the arid backdrop.
Secretary Bird: Majestic and efficient, secretary birds stalk through the grasslands, using their long legs and sharp beaks to hunt insects, small mammals, and reptiles with precision strikes.
White-backed Vulture: Bold and sociable, white-backed vultures congregate around carcasses, using their powerful beaks to tear through tough hides and scavenging alongside other vulture species.
Cape Cormorant: Agile and aquatic, Cape cormorants dive into coastal waters, propelling themselves with webbed feet to hunt for fish and crustaceans in the nutrient-rich Benguela Current.
Namaqua Sandgrouse: Resilient and nomadic, Namaqua sandgrouse traverse the desert in search of water, relying on specialized breast feathers to transport precious liquid to their chicks in secluded nesting sites.
Rosy-faced Lovebird: Colorful and social, rosy-faced lovebirds gather in noisy flocks, feasting on seeds and fruits while navigating the rocky terrain with agility and grace.
Kori Bustard: Stately and elusive, Kori bustards blend seamlessly into the desert landscape, utilizing their impressive size and cryptic plumage to avoid predators while foraging for insects and small vertebrates.
Black-chested Snake Eagle: Stealthy and powerful, black-chested snake eagles perch on high vantage points, scanning the terrain for snakes and lizards before swooping down to capture their prey with precision talon strikes.
Predators
Namib-Naukluft National Park hosts a diverse array of predators, vital to the park’s ecosystem. These apex predators play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of the desert environment.
African Leopard: Stealthy and elusive, African leopards roam the rocky outcrops and canyons of the park, preying on smaller mammals and occasionally scavenging from larger kills.
Spotted Hyena: Highly adaptable and social, spotted hyenas patrol the desert plains in search of prey, often working together in clans to bring down larger animals or scavenge from carcasses.
Cape Fox: Small and agile, cape foxes are skilled hunters of rodents and insects, using their keen senses and swift movements to navigate the arid terrain and secure their meals.
Caracal: Graceful and solitary, caracals are elusive predators that stalk the park’s dunes and rocky slopes, preying on small mammals and birds with their impressive speed and agility.
Black-backed Jackal: Opportunistic and cunning, black-backed jackals are scavengers and hunters, often trailing larger predators to feed on their kills or hunting small prey on their own.
Cheetah: Swift and powerful, cheetahs are rare inhabitants of the park, relying on their incredible speed and stealth to chase down prey across the desert plains.
African Wild Dog: Social and highly efficient hunters, African wild dogs roam the park in packs, working together to pursue and bring down antelope and other small to medium-sized mammals.
Bat-eared Fox: Nocturnal and insectivorous, bat-eared foxes emerge at night to hunt termites and other insects, using their large ears to detect prey beneath the desert sand.
Brown Hyaena: Solitary and elusive, brown hyaenas scavenge on the outskirts of the park, feeding on carrion and occasionally hunting small mammals and reptiles in the desert landscape.
African Caracal: Elusive and solitary, African caracals stalk the park’s savannah and rocky terrain, preying on small mammals and birds with their powerful leaps and sharp claws.
Popular
Namib-Naukluft National Park boasts an extraordinary diversity of wildlife beyond its predators, each species adapted to survive in the harsh desert environment.
Oryx: Majestic and resilient, oryx roam the arid plains, equipped with long, straight horns and specialized hooves to endure the desert’s challenges, grazing on tough desert grasses.
Springbok: Agile and iconic, springbok traverse the vast desert landscapes in herds, showcasing impressive pronking displays and surviving on sparse vegetation and water sources scattered across the park.
Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra: Hardy and striking, Hartmann’s mountain zebras navigate the rugged terrain of the park’s mountainous regions, utilizing their unique striping patterns for camouflage and social recognition.
Klipspringer: Nimble and sure-footed, klipspringers inhabit rocky outcrops and cliffs, using their specialized hooves to navigate steep terrain and grazing on a variety of shrubs and herbs.
Greater Kudu: Elegant and elusive, greater kudu roam the desert valleys and riverine forests, with their impressive spiral horns and cryptic coloration providing defense against predators and rivals.
Cape Ground Squirrel: Curious and adaptable, Cape ground squirrels are common residents of the park, foraging for seeds, roots, and insects while evading predators with their swift movements and burrow systems.
African Elephant: Iconic and resilient, African elephants traverse the park’s dry riverbeds and savannahs, relying on their keen sense of smell to locate water sources and their impressive strength to manipulate vegetation.
Gemsbok: Regal and hardy, gemsbok are well-adapted to the desert environment, relying on their endurance and ability to withstand high temperatures while foraging for sparse vegetation.
Bat-eared Fox: Nocturnal and insectivorous, bat-eared foxes emerge at night to hunt termites and other insects, using their large ears to detect prey beneath the desert sand.
Cape Fur Seal: Playful and gregarious, Cape fur seals inhabit the coastal areas of the park, forming large colonies on rocky shores and feeding on fish and other marine life in the cold Atlantic waters.
Birds
Namib-Naukluft National Park hosts a diverse avian population, with over 200 species adapted to the desert environment, each showcasing unique behaviors and adaptations.
Lappet-faced Vulture: Majestic and formidable, Lappet-faced vultures soar high above the desert landscapes, scavenging for carrion with their powerful beaks and keen eyesight.
Pale Chanting Goshawk: Agile and opportunistic, Pale chanting goshawks perch atop acacia trees, scanning the desert floor for prey and displaying impressive aerial maneuvers during courtship displays.
Greater Flamingo: Graceful and striking, greater flamingos gather in saline lakes and pans, filtering algae and plankton through specialized bill structures while creating vibrant pink spectacles against the arid backdrop.
Secretary Bird: Majestic and efficient, secretary birds stalk through the grasslands, using their long legs and sharp beaks to hunt insects, small mammals, and reptiles with precision strikes.
White-backed Vulture: Bold and sociable, white-backed vultures congregate around carcasses, using their powerful beaks to tear through tough hides and scavenging alongside other vulture species.
Cape Cormorant: Agile and aquatic, Cape cormorants dive into coastal waters, propelling themselves with webbed feet to hunt for fish and crustaceans in the nutrient-rich Benguela Current.
Namaqua Sandgrouse: Resilient and nomadic, Namaqua sandgrouse traverse the desert in search of water, relying on specialized breast feathers to transport precious liquid to their chicks in secluded nesting sites.
Rosy-faced Lovebird: Colorful and social, rosy-faced lovebirds gather in noisy flocks, feasting on seeds and fruits while navigating the rocky terrain with agility and grace.
Kori Bustard: Stately and elusive, Kori bustards blend seamlessly into the desert landscape, utilizing their impressive size and cryptic plumage to avoid predators while foraging for insects and small vertebrates.
Black-chested Snake Eagle: Stealthy and powerful, black-chested snake eagles perch on high vantage points, scanning the terrain for snakes and lizards before swooping down to capture their prey with precision talon strikes.
Sossusvlei
Nestled amidst towering dunes, Sossusvlei is renowned for its striking white clay pan, contrasting sharply against the surrounding red sands.
Rising to approximately 325 meters (1,066 feet), these dunes create a dramatic backdrop for photographers capturing the stark beauty of the desert landscape.
Explore the ethereal landscape on foot, marveling at the ever-shifting sands and the play of light and shadow across the dunes.
Dune 45
One of Namib-Naukluft’s most iconic dunes, Dune 45 stands at approximately 80 meters (262 feet) tall.
Its distinctive shape and vibrant hues make it a favorite spot for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape, including the nearby salt pan and mountain ranges.
Big Daddy
As one of the tallest sand dunes globally, Big Daddy towers at around 325 meters (1,066 feet) above the desert floor.
Its imposing stature offers an exhilarating challenge for hikers keen on scaling its steep slopes.
At the summit, adventurers are rewarded with unparalleled vistas stretching across the vast Namib Desert and beyond.
Sossusvlei
Nestled amidst towering dunes, Sossusvlei is renowned for its striking white clay pan, contrasting sharply against the surrounding red sands.
Rising to approximately 325 meters (1,066 feet), these dunes create a dramatic backdrop for photographers capturing the stark beauty of the desert landscape.
Explore the ethereal landscape on foot, marveling at the ever-shifting sands and the play of light and shadow across the dunes.
Dune 45
One of Namib-Naukluft’s most iconic dunes, Dune 45 stands at approximately 80 meters (262 feet) tall.
Its distinctive shape and vibrant hues make it a favorite spot for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape, including the nearby salt pan and mountain ranges.
Big Daddy
As one of the tallest sand dunes globally, Big Daddy towers at around 325 meters (1,066 feet) above the desert floor.
Its imposing stature offers an exhilarating challenge for hikers keen on scaling its steep slopes.
At the summit, adventurers are rewarded with unparalleled vistas stretching across the vast Namib Desert and beyond.
Sossusvlei
Nestled amidst towering dunes, Sossusvlei is renowned for its striking white clay pan, contrasting sharply against the surrounding red sands.
Rising to approximately 325 meters (1,066 feet), these dunes create a dramatic backdrop for photographers capturing the stark beauty of the desert landscape.
Explore the ethereal landscape on foot, marveling at the ever-shifting sands and the play of light and shadow across the dunes.
Namib-Naukluft National Park Pictures
Engaging Namibia-Naukluft
Immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscapes of Namib-Naukluft National Park by embarking on an exploration of the iconic Sossusvlei Dunes. Towering hundreds of meters above the desert floor, these mesmerizing sand dunes form some of the highest in the world, creating a surreal backdrop of shifting sands and vibrant hues.
Whether you choose to climb the towering dunes for panoramic views of the desert or wander through the ancient camel thorn trees at Dead Vlei, every step offers a glimpse into the park’s timeless beauty and geological wonders.
Embark on an exhilarating game drive through the vast wilderness of Namib-Naukluft National Park, where the desert landscape is home to an array of fascinating wildlife species. Climb aboard a safari vehicle and set off in search of the park’s iconic inhabitants, including desert-adapted elephants, giraffes, oryx, and ostriches, among others.
As you traverse the rugged terrain, your experienced guide will share insights into the behavior and biology of the animals you encounter, enhancing your understanding of this unique ecosystem.
Keep your camera ready to capture sightings of elusive predators such as leopards and cheetahs, and marvel at the sight of wildlife thriving in one of the world’s harshest environments.
Soar above the breathtaking landscapes of Namib-Naukluft National Park on a thrilling helicopter tour. Experience the park’s vastness and diversity from a unique perspective as you fly over towering sand dunes, rugged mountains, and expansive desert plains.
Marvel at the contrast between the golden sands and the deep blue hues of the Atlantic Ocean in the distance. Your knowledgeable pilot will provide commentary on the park’s geology, wildlife, and conservation efforts, offering insights that enrich your aerial adventure.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings below, including herds of oryx, springbok, and other desert-adapted species. With unparalleled views and photo opportunities, a helicopter tour promises an unforgettable experience in this mesmerizing wilderness.
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Namib-Naukluft National Park from a unique vantage point with a hot air balloon safari. Drift gently over the vast expanse of the desert, witnessing the stunning sunrise casting its golden hues over the dunes below.
As you soar higher, marvel at the intricate patterns etched by wind across the sands and the rugged mountain ranges in the distance.
With expert pilots guiding your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife roaming the desert floor below, from oryx and springbok to ostriches.
This serene adventure offers a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of this breathtaking landscape, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Lace up your hiking boots and set out to explore Namib-Naukluft National Park on foot, following a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through rugged canyons, rocky outcrops, and hidden oases.
From short nature walks to multi-day treks, the park offers options for hikers of all skill levels, each promising unique perspectives and opportunities to connect with the desert wilderness.
Traverse ancient riverbeds, marvel at towering rock formations, and encounter desert-adapted wildlife as you navigate the park’s diverse terrain on an unforgettable hiking adventure.
Namib-Naukluft National Park Trails
Naukluft Mountains Trail
Rating: Moderate to Difficult
Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies depending on the chosen route
Description: The Naukluft Mountains Trail offers adventurous hikers the opportunity to explore the rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems of the Naukluft Mountains in Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Trails range from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks, with options to summit peaks, traverse gorges, and discover hidden waterfalls.
Hikers can expect breathtaking scenery, encounters with wildlife, and a sense of awe-inspiring wilderness throughout their journey.
Dune 45 Hike
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.2 miles (2 km) round trip with an elevation gain of 328 feet (100 meters)
Description: The Dune 45 Hike offers a classic desert experience in Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Hikers will ascend the iconic Dune 45, known for its stunning sunrise views over the vast red sand dunes of Sossusvlei.
The trail winds through soft sand, providing a moderate challenge, but the breathtaking panorama at the summit makes it worth the effort.
Hiddenvlei Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.9 miles (3 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: The Hiddenvlei Trail leads hikers through the ancient clay pan of Hiddenvlei, nestled among towering dunes in Namib-Naukluft National Park.
This easy walk offers surreal landscapes of cracked white clay punctuated by skeletal camel thorn trees, providing excellent photo opportunities.
The tranquility and stark beauty of Hiddenvlei make it a must-visit destination within the park.
Sesriem Canyon Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.2 miles (2 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: The Sesriem Canyon Trail allows hikers to explore the dramatic rock formations of Sesriem Canyon, carved by the Tsauchab River over millions of years.
The short loop trail leads along the canyon’s rim and into its depths, where visitors can marvel at the sheer walls towering above them and witness the effects of erosion on the landscape.
Elim Dune Trail
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.5 miles (4 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: The Elim Dune Trail offers a peaceful hike through the scenic desert terrain of Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Hikers will traverse soft sand and gentle slopes as they make their way to the summit of Elim Dune, providing panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscapes.
The tranquility and solitude of this trail make it a favorite among visitors seeking a serene desert experience.
Naukluft Mountains Trail
Rating: Moderate to Difficult
Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies depending on the chosen route
Description: The Naukluft Mountains Trail offers adventurous hikers the opportunity to explore the rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems of the Naukluft Mountains in Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Trails range from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks, with options to summit peaks, traverse gorges, and discover hidden waterfalls.
Hikers can expect breathtaking scenery, encounters with wildlife, and a sense of awe-inspiring wilderness throughout their journey.
Dune 45 Hike
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.2 miles (2 km) round trip with an elevation gain of 328 feet (100 meters)
Description: The Dune 45 Hike offers a classic desert experience in Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Hikers will ascend the iconic Dune 45, known for its stunning sunrise views over the vast red sand dunes of Sossusvlei.
The trail winds through soft sand, providing a moderate challenge, but the breathtaking panorama at the summit makes it worth the effort.
Hiddenvlei Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.9 miles (3 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: The Hiddenvlei Trail leads hikers through the ancient clay pan of Hiddenvlei, nestled among towering dunes in Namib-Naukluft National Park.
This easy walk offers surreal landscapes of cracked white clay punctuated by skeletal camel thorn trees, providing excellent photo opportunities.
The tranquility and stark beauty of Hiddenvlei make it a must-visit destination within the park.
Sesriem Canyon Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.2 miles (2 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: The Sesriem Canyon Trail allows hikers to explore the dramatic rock formations of Sesriem Canyon, carved by the Tsauchab River over millions of years.
The short loop trail leads along the canyon’s rim and into its depths, where visitors can marvel at the sheer walls towering above them and witness the effects of erosion on the landscape.
Elim Dune Trail
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.5 miles (4 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: The Elim Dune Trail offers a peaceful hike through the scenic desert terrain of Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Hikers will traverse soft sand and gentle slopes as they make their way to the summit of Elim Dune, providing panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscapes.
The tranquility and solitude of this trail make it a favorite among visitors seeking a serene desert experience.
Naukluft Mountains Trail
Rating: Moderate to Difficult
Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies depending on the chosen route
Description: The Naukluft Mountains Trail offers adventurous hikers the opportunity to explore the rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems of the Naukluft Mountains in Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Trails range from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks, with options to summit peaks, traverse gorges, and discover hidden waterfalls.
Hikers can expect breathtaking scenery, encounters with wildlife, and a sense of awe-inspiring wilderness throughout their journey.
Sources
- All Trails, Best Trails In Namib Naukluft National Park, https://www.alltrails.com/parks/namibia/hardap/namib-naukluft-national-park, retrieved March 2023.
- Discover Africa, Namib Naukluft National Park, https://www.discoverafrica.com/safaris/namibia/namib-naukluft-national-park/, retrieved March 2023.
- Expert Africa, Namib Naukluft National Park, https://www.expertafrica.com/namibia/namib-naukluft-national-park, retrieved March 2023.
- Info Namibia, Namib Naukluft National Park, https://www.info-namibia.com/activities-and-places-of-interest/sossusvlei/namib-naukluft-park, retrieved March 2023.
- Ministry of Environment, Namib-Naukluft National Park, http://www.met.gov.na/national-parks/namib-naukluft-park/224/, retrieved March 2023.
- National Geographic, Africa’s Super Park, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/2011/06/namib-naukluft-skeleton-coast-namibia-africa/, retrieved March 2023.
- Sossusvlei, Park Site, https://www.sossusvlei.org, retrieved March 2023.
- Wikipedia, Sesriem, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sesriem, retrieved March 2023.
