The best hiking trails in Namibia

1 Hiking Trails

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Karas
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"Embark on Namibia's unforgettable trails, from Sossusvlei's dunes to Fish River Canyon's grandeur."

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Namibia, where the vast landscapes offer a hiker's paradise. Traverse the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, where the golden sands meet the endless sky, or explore the rugged beauty of Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world. Discover the unique flora and fauna of Etosha National Park, and be captivated by the ancient rock engravings at Twyfelfontein. Each trail promises breathtaking vistas and a profound connection with nature's raw beauty.

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1

Extra Difficult

Namib View Trail

Karas, Namibia · star 0.0 (0) · 2.2 km · Est. 54 min

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FAQs about hiking in Namibia

What is the climate like for hiking in Namibia?

Namibia has a desert climate, making winters (May to September) cooler and ideal for hiking. The average temperature ranges between 20-28°C with chilly nights. Summer, from November to March, can be extremely hot and is punctuated by occasional rainfall. Hikers should be aware of flash floods in canyon areas. Detailed info can be found at https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/world/namibia

Do I need a permit to hike in Namibia?

Hikers planning to venture into Namibia's national parks, such as the Etosha National Park or the Fish River Canyon, need permits from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. https://national-parks.org/namibia

Is wild camping allowed in Namibia?

Wild camping in Namibia isn't officially sanctioned. Travelers must book accommodations at designated campsites inside or near national parks. Hiking trails often have pre-arranged camping spots. For details, https://www.pitchup.com/campsites/namibia/-/wild-camping/

Are there mountain rescue services in Namibia?

In Namibia, hiking emergencies fall under the Namibia Emergency Management System's responsibility. Dialing 112 will connect you to emergency services. Namibia's remote landscapes necessitate a detailed itinerary left with someone reliable. https://sarcontacts.info/countries/namibia/

Are there dangerous plants in Namibia?

Namibia's diverse flora varies from desert succulents in the south like Welwitschia mirabilis to savannah woodlands in the north. Hikers may encounter different plant species in different biomes, all adapted to challenging environments. To learn more, refer to https://herbaria.plants.ox.ac.uk/bol/namibia

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Namibia?

From desert-adapted elephants in Damaraland to venomous scorpions in the Namib desert, Namibia's wildlife is diverse and adapted to arid conditions. Understanding local fauna is crucial for hikers. Check the Namibia Wildlife Resort’s guide here for more information.

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