Namibia Expeditions...Up Close

With 300 days of sunshine each year, plenty of space (Namibia is the second least densely populated country in the world- after Mongolia) and a spectacular landscape that includes desert, coast, canyons and hills- who wouldn't want to travel to Namibia?? However, for many- including myself- Namibia hasn't been top of the Travel List, but after researching our Independent Expedition to this country, I've been left wondering why on earth it hasn't.


Dune 45



On expedition teams can experience and get up close to all the environments listed above as they complete 4 weeks of trekking, exploring, and community work. Teams acclimatise to the country by trekking and wild camping along the Skeleton Coast- a protected region which World Challenge have been granted the right to roam on. As well as helping with the conservation efforts along the way, the Skeleton Coast is known to host a seal colony and be home to desert elephants and even the odd desert lion! The iconic photo of the spectacular sand dunes (definitely one for the Facebook profile!) will also not be missed as teams visit Sesriem and Sossuvlei.

Fish River Canyon

Qualifying for the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, the 5 day Fish River Canyon self-supported trek (i.e carrying all kit and equipment) is a big challenge. Exploring 90km of rockpools, canyon walls, plateaus and boulders teams will camp and cook for themselves. The contrasting temperatures will also be a challenge as it can reach 30 degrees in the day, but drop to freezing at night!

Project Work

The project work presents a great opportunity to experience the culture and people of Namibia. In the past teams have helped plant vegetable gardens to supplement the children's school meals, constructed and renovated important community buildings and worked for local conservation organisations. Working for a common goal brings the team together and also qualifies for the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award residential section.

Lastly (and most likely exhausted at this stage!) teams will chill out in Swakopmund and have the chance to go dune-boarding, dolphin spotting, safari and just relaxing on the beach!

So with a plethora or activities and opportunities the Namibia expedition is definitely for someone who wants a challenge, as well as an opportunity to properly get into some community work overseas. This sunny, relaxed country is certainly one to be moved back to the top of Places I Must See.  

http://www.world-challenge-expeditions.co.uk/page97/Namibia-indpendent-expedition.html