The Namib Desert lies between a high inland plateau and the Atlantic Ocean, stretching over more than 2,000 kilometers along the Atlantic Coast of three African countries. With mile after mile of shimmering sand dunes, this hauntingly beautiful land is nearly uninhabited by man except for sparse settlements by indigenous pastoral communities. Brown fur seals and numerous endemic and indigenous shorebirds have made the coastline their home. Birdwatchers will delight in hiking along freshwater lagoons filled with thousands of exotic avian species. African bush elephants, mountain zebras, spotted hyenas, gemsbok and reptiles have also adapted themselves to this punishing habitat. Expect giant dunes, endless plains, unexpected rivers, and a foggy coastline – together, they support an unexpected diversity of fauna. The desert is also famed for rock paintings, tools and pottery found in caves that document the history of ancient human existence.
A convenient vantage point for excursions in its eponymous desert, Namib Desert Lodge is located in Sesriem Canyon, a picture-perfect setting boasting unparalleled views of dunes, mountains and the desert as far as you can see.