The dreamiest family holiday destination

Magnify the joy by experiencing Namibia’s manifold wonders through your family’s eyes. 

Annelien Murray

“All I wanted to do was get back to Africa. We had not left it, yet, but when I would wake in the night I would lie, listening, homesick for it already.” – Ernest Hemingway

Same, Ernest, same. 

It’s been a hot minute since I’ve set foot in the motherland. Although the warm waters of the calm Floridian Atlantic are commendable, it’s not the ancient love story of the Namibian Atlantic kissing the Namib Desert. Oh, what a sight to behold! A sight I boast about to fellow Floridians. Untouched and pristine. I long for the lack of crowds, minimal light pollution to see the stars shining ever so brightly, getting childishly excited when the first inland summer rains soothe the parched earth. It is an olfactory treat of freshness, green and growth - a little more complicated to explain to someone who has never been. 

But, like Richard Mullin said, the only person I envy is one who hasn’t been to Africa yet, for he has so much to look forward to. My personal twist is narrowing it down to Namibia, although the concept of “narrow” is unfitting in our wide, awe-inspiring landscapes. 

Why choose Namibia for your family holiday? 

In today’s global happenings, it is worth mentioning that Namibia is home to only 2.5 million people, 3.13 people per square kilometre compared to 21.9 million people in Florida, 136.4 people per square kilometre. You might do the math for any other destination, and find that social distancing comes more naturally in this far-flung country than anywhere else. 

Then, of course, there’s the wondrous world of safari. “Everything in Africa bites, but the safari bug is worst of all.” - Brian Jackman 

Namibia is a renowned safari destination, but her features and flair extend way beyond the magnificent wildlife in Etosha National Park. Most are also familiar with her orange swirls of sand towering high into an immaculate blue sky in Sossusvlei. 

But, dear friends, you are in for a treasure far beyond what you could ever comprehend. 

Namibia is a medley of curious contrasts that speaks to the heart of the diverse traveller. The Big 5 don’t only share this vast country with 13 different ethnic groups, but also with various lesser-known critters and animals that unveil less conspicuous, yet significant ecosystems. Think beyond the majestic roar of the lion or the impressive trumpeting of an elephant in the savanna grasslands. The diverse spectrum reaches all the way into the desert – home to a plethora of the most interesting reptiles and insects. You never know what you might come across. Certain parts of the riparian north, for example, is home to the elusive red lechwe, and if you look closer, you might catch a glimpse of the spotted-necked otter in the Chobe River. 

You might share an open fire with one of the world’s last semi-nomadic people – the Himba. Or perhaps you encounter the San people, and learn about their intimate relationship with nature. Namibia has a very rich history with multiple languages and cultures – each one has a story to tell. And then there’s the collective story as a single nation. 

Travel through captivating contrasts in the echoes of deep-carved canyons. Scale the summit of towering sand dunes and craggy mountains. Allow yourself to be lured into green wetlands and then also set foot in the scorching desert. Listen to the conversations between animals, in contrast with the silent sounds of the savannah grasslands. 

An Easter getaway with Gondwana Collection Namibia 

With lodges all over the country, Gondwana Collection Namibia is a top choice for your family getaway. Each lodge, a reflection of its surroundings, offers more than just a bed and breakfast – they offer experiences just as diverse as the country itself. 

On safari it is inevitable to spend a lot of time in the car. However, there are many parts of Namibia that you can explore by foot to restore the balance. Gondwana Namib Park is one such a place. Wonderful wildlife encounters in glorious landscapes are the order of the day but without any threatening predators, which means you can saunter amongst the gemsbok grazing in the golden grass, climb on the back of a fossilised dune, run up a sand dune and simply breathe in the pure air. Another fun way to explore is by e-bike. Pedal as much or as little as you like. 

Namib Desert Lodge is a great pick for families where birds flit from tree to tree providing shade to visitors on the lush green lawns that surround crystal-clear swimming pools. There are many more lodging options throughout the entire country. 

Visit the Gondwana Web Store to find out more and see a plethora of options to choose from. 

The gift of Namibia is one of the most memorable gifts you can give your family. 

Travelling with the family will let you see Namibia through each of your loved ones’ eyes, multiplying the manifold wonders of this magnificent country.