UNTAMED

The topography of Namibia is like nowhere else, and sometimes feels like another planet, making it a dream destination for photographers.

Back on land, relax on your sea-facing terrace at The Strand Hotel, set on the Mole, a historic and iconic site surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on three sides.

Set sail for a water safari, entertained by inquisitive seals and pelicans, and hopefully spotting pods of heavyside and bottlenose dolphins swimming alongside the boat, and schools of Namibian Mola Mola.

Everywhere you look is amazement: Jackals on the beach and Walvis Bay oysters (considered among the best in the world) being farmed on lines.

Track fascinating desert creatures as they dance, dig, dive, and sidewind in the dune sand.

See the dunes as they catch the evening light, and enveloped in endless horizons, find perfect peace stargazing as you feast under the desert night sky.

Leading experts provide timely analysis about the imminent threats to lions, elephants, and rhinos during guided walks, sunset drives in the Onguma Private Reserve, and bush safaris on the Etosha Pan.

Overlooking the serene scarceness of the Etosha Pans, with only wild animals and hundreds of camel thorn trees in view, Onguma Safari Lodge offers the best sunset views in all Namibia.

Caravan to Himba tribe villages, not available to tourists, for a respectful, mutually beneficial meeting to learn the ways of these semi-nomadic people, including their ceremonies, jewelry, and distinctive skincare regimen—covering their hair and skin with a red mixture called otjize, made of ochre and butterfat to protect from the harsh elements.

Check out “Himba: Hearts of Sand,” Africa Geographic Magazine.

Spend Namibian Independence Day with cheetahs (and a cheetah whisperer), at the Cheetah Conservation Fund. Tour their facilities, including a clinic and creamery, and celebrate that evening with a traditional Boma dinner.