Namibia

Types of trips: Outdoor and Active, Adventure, Safari, Volunteering, Community Based Tourism, Nature and Wildlife, City Tourism

Best known for: Diamonds, Semi-precious stones, Herero dolls, Wood-cavings, Karosse rugs

Why Go?: In the south of the African continent Namibia is a world away from the culture found in the UK. However some German influences do mean that Western customs are recognised there. The stunning landscape of Namibia is home to some of the most amazing groups of animals and there is also the opportunity to work with and help the native peoples.

Fact File

Population: 2,100,000

Capital: Windhoek

Language(s): English, Afrikaans, German, Rukwangali, Silozi, Setswana, Damara/Nama, Herero, Oshiwambo

Ties to the UK?: With up to 27,000 visits a year, people visit Namibia for both leisure and tourism as well as aid work.

Landscape: Deserts, Large central plateau, Rivers, Beaches

Climate/Seasons: January and February are the hottest months, very little rainfall throughout the year, night can be cold between June and September.

When to Go: If you're going for festivals then you will find them throughout the year, the weather being so good all year round means that you can simply pick the best events or time of year to suit you. Relief and aid work is appreciated all year round. The best time for Safari is during our Spring and Summer, Ideally May - Sep, although there is more than enough to see all year round.

Reasons to Visit: A wealth of opportunities and adventures to be had, Namibia is an amazing country that will leave with you and your students experiences and sight than you'll never forget

How to Get There: Flying is usually the quickest, cheapest and easiest way to get to Namibia although flights to elsewhere and trains or luxury coaches are an alternative option to be investigated

Places to Go: Damaraland, East of Ethosa, Namib Desert, Fish River Canyon, Ethosa National Park

Famous People: Herold Pupkewietz, Sven Thieme, Adolph Jentsch, John Muafangejo, Kareka Henguva

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Ethosa National Park, Lion, Elephant, Zebra, Eagles, Angolan Swallow

History: German rule, South African rule, Independence

Architecture: Straw and mud huts, Wooden construction houses, Tower blocks, Churches

Peoples: Ovambo (50%), Kavango, Damara, Herero, Himba, Nama, Baster, (San) Bushman, Tswana, Caprivians

Sport: Football, Rugby Union, Cricket, Golf, Fishing

Events: Independence Day Festival celebrated country wide in every village, Maherero Day, Octoberfest 

Watch Out For: Some landmines at Angola border but there should be no reason to go near them

Medical Issues: No mandatory vaccinations although it would be worth seeing a G.P. and seeing what they recommend - you can check here for more info

Watch this video about visiting Namibia!