Posted on Wed, May 22, 2013 @ 07:44 AM
Damaraland Camp in Namibia has been selected as one of National Geographic Traveler’s “25 Best Ecolodges” for 2013 - a nod to the great conservation work with local conservancies in Namibia.
The camp is a joint venture between Torra Conservancy and Wilderness Safaris. “We are extremely proud of our partnership with the community of the Torra Conservancy at Damaraland Camp and of our ongoing commitment to ecotourism in Namibia”, says Rob Moffett of Wilderness Safaris. “Our country’s unique model of conservation, community development and tourism is setting a global standard in the protection of the environment and wildlife, and in engaging with and empowering rural communities in the process.”
The editorial team of National Geographic Traveler worked long and hard to find 2013’s best authentic and most sustainable lodges for its more than 8.5 million readers. The select lodges chosen embody the National Geographic Society’s spirit of exploration and commitment to the environment and will be featured in the magazine’s June/July 2013 issue.
After independence in 1990, Namibia was the first African country to incorporate environmental protection into its constitution. The national government reinforced that commitment by giving communities the right to manage wildlife through communal conservancies. As a result, residents of conservancies could set up joint ventures with investors and travel businesses to operate lodges and tented camps, targeting the eco-travel market.
To date, 79 communal conservancies have been established, incorporating 19.5 percent of the country’s land. Over 40 joint-venture lodges and campsites are operating in partnership with conservancies, and more are in the works. Support organisations such as The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), IRDNC (Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation), Save The Rhino Trust and NACSO (The Namibian Association of Community Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM), have contributed to the success of the ground-breaking national policy.
Wilderness Safaris partnered with the Torra Conservancy in 1996 to pioneer the joint venture concept with Damaraland Camp, and is engaged with similar ventures with a further four communal conservancies in the remote north-west of the country.
Torra Conservancy holds a 40% equity stake in Damaraland Camp and the democratically elected community body also receives a tourism levy for each guest visiting the camp. More than 95% of jobs at the camp are filled by community members, including lodge and guiding staff. Wilderness Safaris has been in the forefront of empowering local community members, including the manager of Damaraland Camp, Maggie Vries. She and other Wilderness managers have risen through the ranks to work in lodge and tourism management.
Nationwide, more than 1 000 jobs have been created through joint venture partnerships and it is estimated that each job supports a further nine family members. Direct revenue to conservancies from these partnerships is used to fund conservation activities, anti-poaching patrols, school programmes and other needs identified by communities.
The conservancies have made a commitment to conservation and developed innovative strategies to deal with human-wildlife conflict. These wildlife-friendly land uses are paying off – Namibia has increased its free-ranging lion population, as well as numbers of numerous other desert-adapted species such as springbok, oryx, giraffe and even Critically Endangered black rhino. This community-centred approach to sustainable land use has attracted delegations from 22 countries, including some struggling to save their tigers, to learn how it’s done.
The overall philosophy in Namibia can be summed up in five words: “We will live with wildlife!”
All photos courtesy of Wilderness Safaris
Useful links
Read about Damaraland Camp on National Geographic Traveler here
Find out more about Namibia's unique conservation model here
Find out more about Damaraland Camp here
Posted on Fri, May 17, 2013 @ 04:19 AM
Professional photographer Hougaard Malan tells of magical tales while journeying through Namibia and shares some lessons on how to best to Capture Namibia.
Tell us about your most unforgettable moment while shooting in Namibia.
The Sandhof Lily pan is a clay plain in the southern region of Namibia near Maltehohe. When it fills to about 30cm after the first heavy rains of summer, the Crinum Paludosum lily comes up for as far as the eye can see. It blooms and dies again within about 6/7 days. Along with the flowers, hundreds of thousands of elephant beetles seem to appear out of nowhere to feast on the delicacy and once the lilies die they vanish again. Our trip was supposed to be Kgalagadi-Richtersveld-Namib, but 5 days before our date to leave we got the news that the pan had gotten the necessary rain for the flowers to bloom.
We decided to chuck Richtersveld and go to Namibaia and then Kgalagadi. When we got there the lilies were already past their peak and I had to search hard to find ones that were still in good condition. As the sun got closer to the horizon, an absolute monstrosity of a storm was steadily rolling closer. Minutes before the storm reached us, a gap in the clouds opened and it rewarded us with light that made the effort worthwhile.
I got a few shots of the storm sky as it started to rain and then turned to my friend to shout "I’m packing up" and I saw how amazing the light was towards the sun. I fired a few quick shots and then the rain started beating down, as you can see in the water. We hastily retreated to the cars for shelter where the three of us were still ignorantly planning to braai, so we sat below our friend's unfolded rooftop tent waiting for the rain to pass. The downpour got heavier and heavier so Isak and I decided to retreat to his car and Braam got in his rooftent.
We were discussing how weird it is that such a cloud formation had no lightning... and as Murphy would have it, the rumble started. It got meaner and meaner and excitement grew to fear as I knew our cars were the highest objects on a flat plain. As the core of the storm reached us three successive strikes fell within less than 100 metres and it shook the whole car, followed by a deafening crackle.
There was an ominous darkness with only the sound of the rain beating against the car when all of a sudden a bolt of white light stood still on Braam’s car and he was still in his roof tent. Isak and I exchanged some nice words then Isak rolled down his window to hear if Braam was okay. After another exchange of some more nice words, Braam confirmed that he’s fine. Lucky for him, the metal frame of the tent had conducted the electricity. We had gotten there in time, had an amazing sunset and Braam survived a lightning strike in his rooftop tent.
If that isn't luck then I don't know what is!
"The Lucky Lilies" Sandhof Farm, Maltahohe District, Namibia, Photo by Hougaard Malan
How does Namibia compare to other places you’ve photographed?
I think what makes Namibia unique is a combination of the vast desolation as well as the dramatic change that the rain brings in areas like the Namib Rand. Seeing the afternoon light sweep across a carpet of green grass that lines a mountain valley from side to side with picture-perfect camel thorns dotting the landscape is something you only find in Namibia. The culmination of sand, mountain, grass and trees are unique to the Namibian landscape
“Seeing the afternoon light sweep across a carpet of green grass that lines a mountain valley from side to side with picture-perfect camel thorns dotting the landscape is something you only find in Namibia.”
Which photos shot in Namibia are you most proud of?
I had visited Namibia twice on holiday prior to starting photography and it never really impressed me that much. The thing that triggered a desire to photograph the country of dunes and grass was a photo in a book by Jean du Plessis. The photo was of a large old Acacia tree on a grass slope that gently descended into a low lying valley where the grass ended against red stone hills.
Almost two and half years later I was standing in front of that tree waiting for the sun to rise. Watching the transition of light and color in a crystal clear sky as an ocean of grass swayed to a warm morning breeze is my fondest memory of Namibia. I experienced on that morning what Jean's photo had communicated to me. Hopefully my image of this scene will communicate that same message to viewers.
Jean's Tree, Kanaan Farm, Namibia, Photo by Hougaard Malan
I doubt there is a landscape in Southern African that has been photographed as much as the trees of Deadvlei. If something has been photographed that much then I have no desire to photograph it. Despite that, I found myself heading for deadvlei in January of 2011. My two travel companions immediately started shooting the iconic trees, while I wandered further into the pan and found these water drainage patterns along the Eastern boundary. There were many patterns that resembled different shapes, but I liked this tree the most for it's symbolism of photographing a tree at deadvlei that no one had photographed before.
"The Trees of Deadvlei" Deadvlei, Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia, Photo by Hougaard Malan
After outdriving and shooting a monster stormcell in the Tsaucheb valley all afternoon, the storm headed Southwards into the dune sea just a few km short of the 4x2 parking lot and I headed into the cracked pans to get ready for sunset. The magical recipe of geographical circumstances at Sossus did what I knew it would and the sun dipped in below the cloud cover briefly illuminating the dunes in blood-red light and painting a partial rainbow in the storm. I've experienced a lot of amazing sunsets in my life, but the location of this was one was just too good to be true and I all I could utter was a few laughs of disbelief. It's the juxtaposition of such a monstrous rainstorm in a desert that is so impressive.
"The Grande Finale" - Tsaucheb Valley Dunes, Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia, Photo by Hougaard Malan
What is your equipment of choice for your Namibian expeditions?
The one piece of equipment that I really enjoyed using in Namibia is a 617 panorama film camera. The Namibian landscape really lends itself to the format due to the vast vistas. I wish I still had it, but I sold it for practicality reasons. One thing I can tip a lot of landscape photographers on is that regardless of how much you love your wide-angle lens, you will enjoy your longer lens more. I always want to shoot wide and long in Namibia.
A photographer friend is desperate to capture the best of Namibia. What top 3 tips would you give them?
#1: The time to go - the belief that the ideal time to go to Namibia is winter may hold true for people that go sight-seeing, but for photography you can't go at a worse time. There are no clouds and the grass is yellow. Go Feb-April for dramatic skies and sunsets.
#2: Be very aware of where you stay and the access that you are allowed. There are (conservation) rules and regulations at many places that can be limiting to landscape photography.
#3: Go for a long time. The Namibian landscape is overwhelming and you can easily spend a month photographing it!
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About Hougaard Malan
With an agronomist dad and musician mom, Hougaard may not have had a big photographic influence, but certainly developed a passion for capturing nature’s artistic beauty. After buying his first SLR at 19, he ditched all plans of becoming an engineer or an architect, to lose himself to landscape photography.
"I am inspired by moments when the elements of nature combine as if painted by a god, to create scenes so beautiful that one has to take the time to stand back in awe and marvel at the beauty of the world we live in. I want my photos to remove the viewer from their present location and transport them to the scene so they can feel the wind and see the golden light of the setting sun on their skin. That is the purpose of a landscape photo, to experience the beauty of a place without being there."
Find out more about Hougaard at hougaardmalan.com
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More Photographer Tips
This part of a series of blog post interviews with professional photographers on how to Capture Namibia. Every week we'll be posting tips, tricks and amazing photographs from these impressive photographers.
Follow us to get the latest in the Capture Namibia series:
 
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Posted on Thu, May 16, 2013 @ 02:40 PM
This October, the Adventure Travel World Summit is to be held in Namibia, and with good reason: Namibia is one of the world's greatest destinations for extreme adventures.
We've picked just ten Namibian activities for adrenaline junkies, speed freaks and off-road fanatics, as well as ten less extreme alternatives for those who prefer to have a somewhat more relaxing holiday. Which would YOU rather do...?
WATER
Kitesurfing
The fresh southwesterly winds that reach Walvis Bay lagoon make this a prime spot for kitesurfing. Similar to traditional surfing but with a kite to pull you along - and lift you out of the water! - this is certainly one of the world's most extreme water sports. Walvis Bay Kite Centre has equipment to rent of buy, and offers one to one lessons from beginner level upwards. Further south, the bay off the little town of Luderitz are also renowned for its ideal conditions - the fastest kitesurfing speed ever recorded was here! Element Riders offers complete courses for all levels.
Chickened out? Enjoy extreme kitesurfing without getting wet! Come and watch the annual Luderitz Speed Challenge for windsurfers and kitesurfers - who can reach speeds of over 90km/h over 500m. National and world records are broken each year. For more info visit www.luderitz-speed.com
Shark angling
Angling off the coast of Namibia, Photo credit Travel News Namibia
Fishing may not sound like a sport to get the adrenaline pumping - but what if you were reeling in a 100kg shark?! Tour operators along the coast of Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Henties Bay offer shark angling excursions, and from November-May you may get the chance to battle with a coppershark, also known as a bronzy. These sea monsters can weigh anything between 15-190kg, and are sure to put up a good fight! Other species include smooth hound sharks and spotted gully sharks. For conservation purposes, all sharks must be returned to the sea unharmed.
Chickened out? Namibia's freshwater dams offer the perfect conditions for relaxing fishing daytrips, including the hardap, Von Bach, Friednau and Naute Dams. Catfish, carp, tilapia, barbel and bass are some of the species to look out for here. Contact the Namibia Federation for Freshwater Anglers to obtain fishing permits and get a copy of the regulations.
Rafting on Kunene
Not only are the rapids of the Kunene River a challenge, simply getting here is a real expedition! Felix Unite's extreme rafting experience takes place just once or twice a year and is a ten-day round trip from Windhoek, including five days on the river and a drive through Etosha National Park. The river forms the border between Namibia and Angola, and you will paddle your way down towards the 40m high Epupa Falls. Don't think about taking a dip - there are crocodiles in the water!
Chickened out? Go canoeing along the Orange River instead, as it winds through the beautiful landscape along the South African border. Not only are there no rapids to negotiate, there is also no nasty wildlife lurking beneath the surface, so you splash around to cool off as often as you like.
AIR
Skydiving
Surely on every true adventurer's bucket list, Skydiving is available for experienced and first-time jumpers just outside of Swakopmund, Namibia's adventure capital. Qualified skydivers can schedule a jump with a local skydiving club, while beginners have two options - a full-day training course with a solo jump at the end (with an automatically opening parachute), or a shorter course followed by a tandem jump, where your instructor does all the work. Don't forget to open your eyes and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Namib Desert meeting the southern Atlantic Ocean! Check out Swakopmund Skydiving Club for more information.
Chickened out? Try a more relaxing hot air balloon flight instead, and float over the dunes of Sossusvlei at dawn with a champagne breakfast. That's more like it!
Paragliding
The dunes make for a nice, soft landing, but paragliding around Swakopmund is still extreme! The coastal winds offer extra lift, so that gliders can get high enough to admire the stunning views of the desert and ocean. The best flying takes place from October to March, and is regulated by local flying schools to avoid overcrowding. Depending on your experience, choose from a half day introductory course, a full day flight, a pilot's licence course or a tandem flight.
Chickened out? Does the thought of dangling under a parachute make you feel a bit queasy? Try a flying safari instead in a light aircraft - enjoy the views along the skeleton coast, the harbours and the Namib desert, without having to learn how to fly first!
LAND
Motorbiking
New off-road motorcycle tour operator Madnam is launching a brand new series of biking tours around Namibia, visiting iconic sights such as Cape Cross, Brandberg, Erindi Game Reserve and Waterberg. To join their thrilling eight-day trip you need plenty of experience on a motorbike, including gravel roads - Namibia's terrain in tough! Bring your own bike or hire one of Madnam's BMWs for the ultimate off-roading adventure.
Chickened out? If you don't have motorbike experience and a week on a bike seems a little too extreme, try an afternoon eco quad-biking. Accompanied by experienced guides who will instruct you how to drive your vehicle, your tour begins gently on a flat trail through the Namib, before heading up into the dunes to take advantage of your 4x4. Pause for pictures and to admire the view!
Rock climbing
Namibia's two main climbing sites are the jagged, 1,728m bulk of Greater Spitzkoppe, and the Brandberg Massif, which at 2,573m is Namibia's higest point. Justifying its "extreme" reputation, Spitzkoppe does not offer any established hiking trails, so climbers can feel like true explorers. Brandberg presents mountaineers with a constant scramble over boulders - it's a three-day clamber to the top which keeps away all but the most intrepid. Climbs should only be attempted with a trained guide from the local community who knows where to find water and will prevent you getting lost amid the rocks. Find your guide through the Namibia Community Based Tourism Association (NACOBTA) in Windhoek, Tel: +264 (0) 61255977 or email: nacobta@iafrica.com.na
Fish River Canyon
One of Africa's top hikes is through the arid, inhospitable Fish River Canyon in southern Namibia. The second deepest canyon in the world offers an extreme environment indeed, and hikers must undertake the 80km, 3-5 day hike entirely unsupported, as there are no facilities en-route. The hike can only be carried out in winter, when the temperatures are slightly lowes and the rains have produced enough water for the river to flow - as this is the only source of water for hikers. Book your tour well in advance with Namibia Wildlife Resorts.
Chickened out? The hot springs at /Ai-/Ais mark the end of the punishing Fisk River Canyon hike - but you don't have to trek the canyon to be able to enjoy them! The /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Spa has indoor and outdoor thermal pools and chalets looking over the canyon - you don't have to spend five days hiking to enjoy a foot massage here!
SAND
Sandboarding
Known locally as the "ultimate speed machine", a waxed, metre-long piece of hardboard can reach phenomenal speeds of 80km/h on Namibia's steep, coastal dunes. You lie face down on the board, bend the front edge up to avoid it sticking into the sand (and flipping you over!) and lift your feet off the ground - then wait to be pushed over the cliff! Definitely not for the faint hearted, this is a major adrenaline kick!
Chickened out? If you don't fancy the steep slopes and high speeds, you can still enjoy an introductory sandboarding session on the dunes. Equipment - including a helmet - is provided, and even the tiniest participants can join in - riding down the dunes on the instructor's back!
UNDERGROUND
Cave diving
With an extreme combination of altitude, deepwater diving, abseiling, rock climbing and pitch darkness, we vote cave diving as Namibia's ultimate extreme adventure. The caves and sinkholes are all over 1,400m above sea level, with depths of between 30 and 130m, and you may have to abseil as far as 140m (with all your diving equipment!) just to reach the water! The Dragon's Breath Cave, 46km north of Grootfontein, is one of the most famous cave diving spots, as it contains the largest subterranean lake in the world. Harasib Cave and Lake Guinas are also recommended. Booking is required at least three months in advance, and it can take up to a week to prepare the caves for diving. Otjikoto Diving Enterprises is the only operator permitted to work in these waters.
Chickened out? For those without the qualifications, experience or courage to try cave diving, you can still spend time underwater without the need for oxygen masks or wetsuits - in Swakopmund's National Marine Aquarium. The newly refurbished site has a walk-through tunnel which brings you up close to marine life including sharks and rays, a much safer underwater adventure that the whole family can take part in!
Information about these activities was taken from Namibia Holiday & Travel - the official Namibian tourism directory. Photo credits: Travel News Namibia
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For more inspiration download your copy of the Namibia Adventure Planning Guide
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Posted on Mon, May 13, 2013 @ 03:02 AM
Whether you’re a local on the hunt for a good meal, a business traveller away from home or a safari tourist en route to your next Namibian adventure, you’re sure to find some of the best meals in town in these Windhoek restaurants and cafes.
Breakfast in Windhoek
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Gustav Voigts Centre, Independence Avenue, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 377 000
Smack bang in the center of town, on the bustling Independence Avenue, lies a piece of German history. Wecke & Voigts has been in operation in Namibia since 1892, and is still going strong. Grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a just-made Brötchen (bread roll) or a sweet tooth pastry for a scrumptious morning munch. Don’t forget to try their famous German ‘Rohhack’ Brötchen… And when you’re done with breakfast, you can take a gander through the specialty Wecke & Voigts department store.
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Sugar & Spice Pancakes
78 Sam Nujoma Drive, Bougain Villas, Windhoek East, Windhoek, Namibia
In the leafy Bougain Villa enclave of Windhoek East, you can find some yummy pancakes to beat the morning hunger. Sweet or savoury, you’re sure to find something delectable on the endless list of pancake options. Or just sip a fresh OJ under the trees in the morning sun.
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The Village, Cnr Liliencron Street and Robert Mugabe Avenue, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 24 0346
Fresh & Wild is an oasis of fresh food in a lush garden in Windhoek. There’s also free wifi for those of you who’re looking for a morning sanctuary to get some work out the way before hitting the day.
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The Village, Cnr Liliencron Street and Robert Mugabe Avenue, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 301159
MoiYa is home to the Namibian Slow Town Coffee Roasters - some of the best coffee in town! And there’s a small but very interesting breakfast menu to go with it. Take a browse through some of the imported deli products and pick up a loaf of freshly made ciabatta for lunch on your way out.
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Vintage Cafe
Cnr Luther Street and Robert Mugabe Avenue, Windhoek, Namibia
If you’ve got kids, this is where you want to head. Most of the restaurant is set in a shaded area outside. There’s a jungle gym, swings and playroom to keep the little ones happy. And plenty of good food and drinks to keep the parents happy…
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Lunch in Windhoek
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Cafe Schneider
Levinson Arcade, Independence Avenue, Windhoek, Namibia
Café Schneider always seems to be busy around lunch hour, with locals in search for a quick bite to eat as it’s conveniently situated in the middle of town. If you’re after the German food flavor for lunch, or just an easy place to have a lunch meeting, this is where its at.
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Cemetery Chicken or Kapana in Katutura
It might sound ominous, but its mighty tasty. And don’t worry, “cemetery chicken” gets its name from the location and not the ingredients! If you’re driving down Hochland road pick up some freshly grilled chicken from the side of the street on the corner of Goshawk street. It’s a favourite take away spot for the locals who are zooting around town. And if you like street side BBQs then definitely try Kapana (frilled beef) from one of the many street food stalls in Katutura.
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2 Mozart Street, Cnr. Hosea Kutako Drive, Windhoek, Namibia
+264 61 300 710
NICE is the Namibian Institute of Culinary Education – a chef finishing school to give up and coming talent an opportunity to hone their skills in the culinary industry.
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Independence Ave, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 210270
If you’re looking for a traditional Oshiwabo meal, then this is the place to head. When you’re done eating ombidi, omagungu, oshifima andmatangara, you can browse the crafts of the cultural village. Nestled in the heart of Katutura, you’ll get a taste of the indigenous cultures too.
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14 Adler Street, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 304583
If sushi and fresh fish are the order of the day, head down to Fishmonger’s to satisfy your fishy cravings. Try some grilled Norwegian salmon, sizzling prawns or just grab some take away sushi for a night in.
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Dinner in Windhoek
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22 Promenaden Street, Klein Windhoek, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 23 9199
Not only is The Olive Exclusive a luxury, boutique hotel in a tranquil corner of Windhoek, but it boasts a quality restaurant featuring a seasonal menu, with inventive signature dishes. Not to mention a classic selection of fine whisky at the bar. Another reason why it was voted as one of the “Best new hotels in the world” by Travel & Leisure magazine.
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22 Heinitzburg Street, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 24 9597
Count von Schwerin commissioned castle Heinitzburg for his fiance, Margarethe von Heinitz in 1914. The castle has been beautifully preserved, and has a top notch restaurant with beautiful views of the city to boot. Choose to indulge yourself at the Garden Terrace, the Wine Cellar, the Knights Room or the gourmet restaurant Leo’s at the Castle. Let’s face it, it’s not everyday you get to dine in a castle in the middle of Africa.
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Bougain Villas, 78 Sam Nujoma Drive, Windhoek East, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 309141
“Ye Old Faithful” for the foodies in town, Stellenbosch Wine Bar never fails to deliver good food. Set in a mini villa space, with beautiful trees and open air tables, it’s a little haven in the middle of Windhoek. It also boasts a hand-picked range of Southern African wines, to make sure the evening is a gastronomical delight.
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Cnr of Beethoven & Simpson Street, Windhoek West, Namibia, +264 81 866 6644
Head down to Fusion for a twist in African cuisine and dining experience. There’s often a fun food theme where you get to taste delights from around the world – from Ethiopian nights to something a little closer to home like braai specials.
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160 Nelson Mandela Avenue, Windhoek, Namibia, +264 61 232 457
Joe’s Beerhouse is an institution. Even if you’re just passing through, you have to have at least one meal there, or at least an ice cold draught of Namibian beer. The many nooks and crannies are safe havens for countless old relics and memorabilia Joe Gross collected over the years on his travels, and some that were to Joe’s by friends and guests. Be sure to have a look around carefully, and ask about them – just about every item has a story. Locals will be happy to hear that they’ve also recently revamped their menu!
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Posted on Fri, May 10, 2013 @ 05:31 AM
Born and raised in Namibia, Roy van der Merwe has had the great privilege of being exposed to the beauty of the Namibian landscapes all his life. Does he ever tire of taking photos of the same place? Never. We asked Roy to share in what is a pretty emotional experience for him – capturing Namibia…
Photo by Roy van Merwe
Tell us about your most unforgettable moment while shooting in Namibia.
Many people feel I am too emotionally attached to the images I shoot, but this is not the case. It is rather that I form an attachment to the environment and for that brief moment in time where the light reveals the exceptional beauty. When pondering my most unforgettable moment, my mind is flooded with this majestic country’s immense diversity and awe inspiring pristine landscapes. I would therefore choose the occasions I have taken my sons of the beaten track and seen their amazement at the raw beauty of Namibia.
“My mind is flooded with this majestic country’s immense diversity and awe inspiring pristine landscapes”
How does Namibia compare to other places you’ve photographed?
Namibia is a harsh country, however its safety is what facilitates many excursions into remote areas.
Photo by Roy van Merwe
Which photos shot in Namibia are you most proud of?
I would not really be able to name only a few... I have been luckier with some, for example the way the cloud bank positioned it’s self perfectly in the image with the full moon rise over the Spitzkoppe, or the way the mist bank only rolled in partially and a bit of water still remained in the depression in the granite slab in the image overlooking the vast vistas from the Brandberg. However all these are not my own doing, I was just fortunate to be there and trust I did nature justice in my portrayal.
Photo by Roy van Merwe
Photo by Roy van Merwe
What is your equipment of choice for your Namibian expeditions?
A good pair of boots, sturdy tripod and set of hard and soft ND grads. Redged makes an awesome lightweight but extremely sturdy and durable tripod and Lee have the best filters.
A photographer friend is desperate to capture the best of Namibia. What top 3 tips would you give them?
#1: When it comes to landscape photography, the same always applies. Escape the crowds, venture where few dare and be patient.
#2: Spend as much time scouting as possible, identify a scene then setup and wait. If you chase after too many images you will miss the magic.
#3: Where exactly I recommend going depends on what you would like to photograph. Koakoveld, Dameraland and the Namib Naukluft Park are all firm favorites.
Photo by Roy van Merwe
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About Roy van der Merwe
"I am a survivor (cancer), however when it comes to the wilderness this is where I feel alive, where every sound, smell and vista feeds my soul. Being born and raised in Namibia, my fascination for this majestic land was nurtured at a young age. My passion still lies deep within Namibia’s remote, pristine wilderness areas and it’s from these places, within the fleeting moments of twilight I attempt to capture nature’s splendor, and share parts of my expeditions."
Find Roy on Facebook and Twitter
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More Photographer Tips
This part of a series of blog post interviews with professional photographers on how to Capture Namibia. Every week for the next two months, we'll be posting their tips and tricks, as well as their mind-blowing photographs.
Follow us to get the latest in the Capture Namibia series:
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Posted on Wed, May 08, 2013 @ 03:10 AM
Namibia may be home to more wildlife than people, and boast some of the most spectacular landscapes, but perhaps the most impressive backdrop to all this natural beauty is the Namibian sky...
We know the sky stretches on for eternity, but in Namibia you feel it. And the daily performance the sky puts on, never fails to impress. Waking up in the morning, you will almost always be greeted by the sun shining bright in a brilliant blue sky.
Sometimes in the afternoon, clouds start to build - first as faint, elegant whispers, then as cotton wool clusters as if from a storybook, and finally as dramatic deep-grey thunderclouds that blaze with every bolt of lightning.
As twilight edges ever closer and the sun sinks into the horizon, the sky begins a metamorphosis – from sapphire to ochre to crimson to amethyst to indigo and every shade in between, until finally settling on a steely blue to take it through the night.
And the evening holds a surprise of all of its own. The Milky Way stretches from one end of the horizon to the next, with the man on the moon and a million stars as its companions. With some of the darkest skies on earth, Namibia will leave you pondering life, gazing into the glitter of outer space until you finally fall asleep...
Have you found yourself under Namibian skies? Got a photo to share with us? Send it to us on Facebook or Twitter with the hashtag #LandscapeEscape and your photo could feature on our blog!
Under Namibian Skies at the Quiver Tree Forest, Photo by Fran Gallogly @tangogalfrances
Namibian Skies from Endemic Productions on Vimeo.
Contrasts over the Namib Desert are a photographer's delight
Is that a bird or a cloud flying above the Okavango river?
Plains so vast you can see where it's raining!
The sun beam & the lonely cloud
Cloud silhouettes on a farm in the east of Namibia
Whisps over the red dunes of the Kalahari
Another day, another sunset
The moon in broad daylight
A lightning flash fills the thunderous skies
Could this be heaven on earth?
Quiver trees lit up against the Milky Way, photo by Marsel van Oosten - read an interview with Marsel and see more of his stunning photography here
Posted on Tue, May 07, 2013 @ 06:35 AM
Last year, we ran the Share My Namibia contest, where Facebook users could pick a dream itinerary. The winner, Vivienne Simon from Boston, was picked randomly from several thousand entries. She chose her sister, Jane, to take along - and after quickly mastering left hand side driving, the sisters were off on an epic road trip of Namibia. This is what the winner, Vivienne, had to say about her experience:
I love contests. I believe that the odds are against me winning. But I enter lots of contests anyway, because if you want to win, you have to play, right? So, when I saw that the Tourism Board of Namibia was hosting a contest to win a trip to Namibia, I filled out my name and email on Facebook, sent it in and forgot about it. And it was only weeks later that I was on the phone with my sister, asking if she would like to accompany me on my all expenses-paid trip to Africa... "No, this isn't a scam. Yes, it is for 2 people. Well, wanna go?!"
It had been about 15 years since my sister and I did any real traveling together. We visited Guatemala and Ecuador and traveled well together. This would be a chance not only to visit Africa, and see the big animals but to do this together. We had talked about taking a trip together in 2013 and here it was! We had also talked about our "bucket list" - Africa and the big five were at the top of our list.
It was as if our plans were overheard and magically manifested. The trip stretched beyond our expectations. The lodges were spectacular, the art, design, animals, landscapes...all fantastic. The trip was so well organized by Margo Bishop at ATI. We really just showed up and all the work was done.
We had a great time driving through Namibia, listening to music, catching up, reading out loud, taking in the landscape, sunsets, climbing the sand dunes, meeting with the Bushmen and new people, buying crafts and giving thanks for our great, good fortune.
All photos by our competition winners Jane and Viv on their Namibian adventure
Thanks, Jane and Viv for coming out to Namibia and we are thrilled you had such a good time!
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Want to be our next winner?
Enter our Landscape Escape Competition and you could win an escape for two to Namibia...
Click to enter now!
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Posted on Fri, May 03, 2013 @ 04:49 AM
As an award winning photographer and photographic safari mentor, Bill Gozansky has come a long way from his home town in Fort Lauderdale, Florida to the magnificent landscapes of Namibia. We found out why he thinks Namibia is a photographer’s paradise...
Sossus Pan, Photo Credit: © Bill Gozansky
Tell us about your most unforgettable moment while shooting in Namibia.
Wow, this is a difficult question as I have so many amazing memories from shooting in Namibia! I recall experimenting with night sky photography in the NamibRand Nature Reserve under some of the most incredibly clear and star-filled night skies I have ever seen. Photographing desert-adapted elephant along the dry Huab riverbed also quickly comes to mind. What a privilege to watch the elephants caring and playful interactions. Capturing images of them spraying the Namibian dust with their trunks as they move through this incredibly harsh environment in their daily search for water was outstanding. Another memorable experience was stopping along the roadside while driving in the Kunene region to have an impromptu visit and photo shoot with some Himba women and children who were resting in the shade of tree. Their acceptance of our presence and easygoing nature was evident even without our ability to share the same language. Yeah, I don’t think I can narrow it down to just one!
Desert-adapted elephant along the dry Huab riverbed, Photo Credit: © Bill Gozansky
How does Namibia compare to other places you’ve photographed?
Namibia is definitely a landscape photographer’s paradise. To me, Namibia’s allure is its vastness, the feeling that you can get away from it all in this enchanting, desolate landscape. It doesn’t have that overcrowded feel that you can sometimes get in East Africa. Don’t get me wrong, I love East Africa too (a destination not to be missed by photographers) but there is something special about photographing in nature when there is no one else in sight. Namibia offers this unique experience. Namibia’s dedication to the conservation of its wildlife, its diversity in landscapes and that fact that it is one of the safest environments for travel of any African country, are a few of the great attributes that make Namibia an incredible playground for photographers. Clearly, one challenge for those of us coming from the United States is just getting to Namibia. It is a long journey that requires some lengthy (and costly) plane flights. However, I think that photographers will find the reward worth the effort once they’ve experienced this magnificent destination and its captivating people.
“Namibia’s allure is its vastness, the feeling that you can get away from it all in this enchanting, desolate landscape.”
Which photos shot in Namibia are you most proud of?
I’m not sure I have just three images from Namibia that “I’m most proud of”, but I’ll share a few images that illustrate the diversity of imagery that can be achieved on a photo safari to Namibia and give you a little background on each.
Himba Woman, Photo Credit: © Bill Gozansky
This portrait of a Himba woman was taken in the Kunene Region of Namibia, an incredibly arid and unforgiving environment. The Himba people have thrived here, living in a manner remarkably unchanged from times past. The striking Himba women present some wonderful portraiture opportunities, in part because they adorn themselves with a reddish brown powder made from crushing ochre rocks. I found the Himba photo experience more genuine than you often encounter when photographing indigenous people in different parts of the world. The Himba seemed very easygoing and willing to share with us both their time for photographs and information about their way of life. I guess I am a bit proud of this image as it was one chosen by Namibia Tourism for use in their destination marketing campaign.
Cape fur seal, Photo Credit: © Bill Gozansky
The Cape Cross Seal Reserve in Namibia has one of the largest breeding colonies of Cape fur seals on the planet, and it was there that I took this portrait of a cute Cape fur seal pup. Fortunately, I arrived at the colony shortly after birthing season and found the pups abundant and playful. These inquisitive animals make great subjects as they seem very curious about their surroundings, including photographers! You can see great expressiveness in their eyes.
Dead Vlei, Photo Credit: © Bill Gozansky
This stark landscape image was taken at Dead Vlei in Namibia’s Namib-Naukluft National Park. Dead Vlei means “dead marsh,” and it’s an otherworldly, dry clay pan that sits among some of the world’s largest sand dunes. What makes this particular clay pan even more interesting is that it is filled with the remnants of dead camel thorn trees (a species of acacia) that once thrived many years ago when the pan was flooded. This combination of elements makes Dead Vlei an incredible draw for landscape photographers.
What is your equipment of choice for your Namibian expeditions?
Namibia is one of those destinations where you might end up using every lens in your camera bag. The regions are quite diverse and so are the photographic opportunities. Wide-angle to mid-range telephotos are a must for the incredible landscape photography. These are definitely the go-to lenses in capturing Namibia’s “endless horizons”. However, your bigger telephotos and super-telephotos will definitely come in handy when focused on wildlife at the waterholes up in Etosha National Park, when tracking desert-adapted elephant in Damaraland or photographing Cape fur seals on the Skeleton coast. Let’s not forget the amazing opportunities for cultural photography and portraiture, such as when visiting a Himba village. Here again, you might choose to work with wide-angle to mid-range telephoto lenses depending on your shooting style and creative vision. You probably should throw a macro lens in the bag as well, as you don’t want to overlook opportunities to photograph Namibia’s small desert creatures. As you can see, lots of possibilities and therefore lots of potential equipment needs.
One essential item not to be forgotten is a sturdy tripod as this will be invaluable for your landscape work and allow you to experiment with some amazing night sky photography as well.
Conditions in Namibia can be dusty and harsh on your gear, so be prepared. While traveling, be sure to protect your gear from the elements and clean your equipment regularly to maintain optimal performance.
A photographer friend is desperate to capture the best of Namibia. What top 3 tips would you give them?
#1: For first time travelers, it is definitely advantageous to travel with a guide or a safari company who knows the various regions and can get you to the key photographic locations at the right times. It is a vast country and with limited travel time you want to maximize your photographic experience. A local guide can be invaluable in getting you to that unique photographic location that you might not have found on your own.
#2: There is no substitute for a little research before your trip. A little advanced research can go a long way in making sure you hit the ground running once you get there. It will help not only in your preparations (see equipment ideas above) but also in your ability to pre-visualize what might be possible photographically. The Internet is an incredible resource for gathering information, from what to expect weather-wise to great photography hotspots to even what type of wildlife you might encounter. Studying other photographers’ images from Namibia is also a great way to gain ideas and insights about what you might expect to see.
#3: If you are really looking for a unique, small-group photographic experience, you can join me and Ultimate Safaris on one of our upcoming photo safaris in 2013 - click here for more information
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About Bill Gozansky
Bill Gozansky is a freelance photographer based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He specializes in travel, nature and fine art photography. Bill’s quest for images enables him to explore unique destinations and to interact with diverse cultures across the globe. Bill Gozansky currently leads photographic safaris to Namibia, Kenya and Ecuador. In private or small group settings, Bill teaches field techniques of professional travel, nature and wildlife photography in these remarkable natural areas. Bill’s award-winning images have been exhibited in galleries, published in many periodicals and books, as well as sold as fine art prints to private collectors. For more information about Bill and his work, visit www.billgozansky.com or find him on Facebook. To join Bill on a photographic safari in Namibia, click here.
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More Photographer Tips
This part of a series of blog post interviews with professional photographers on how to Capture Namibia. Every week for the next two months, we'll be posting their tips and tricks, as well as their mind-blowing photographs.
Follow us to get the latest in the Capture Namibia series:
 
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Posted on Mon, Apr 29, 2013 @ 09:16 AM
The colourful fishing village of Lüderitz is getting ready to hold the annual Crayfish Festival from 30th May to 1st June 2013 - don't miss out!
What to do at the festival
Take a walk around the festival stalls, taste-testing the different crayfish recipes and sauces of our local “masterchefs”, watch them battle it out in a crayfish cooking competition and browse the many stalls of Namibian made products. Take in the harbour views, mix with the friendly locals and enjoy a wonderful ambience of fabulous smells, music & sunshine. Watch naval & police band marches and even a music festival at the local stadium.
The history of the festival
The Lüderitz community decided to host an annual Crayfish Festival to celebrate the town’s unique sea-life, multi-cultural roots, rich maritime history, and of course, superior quality crayfish. The festival brings together people from Lüderitz, Namibia and the world, and the proceeds of the event go to help the various charities that benefit the less advantaged.
Her Worship the Mayor and the friendly "Buchters" invite you to join them at this year’s festival!
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When: 30th May – 1st June 2013
Where: Lüderitz Waterfront, Lüderitz, South West Coast, Namibia
For more information about the festival programme, contact the Lüderitz municipality here. To find out more about Lüderitz and its crayfish, keep reading!
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Photos from The 2012 Lüderitz Crayfish Festival, where many local and international tourists flocked to Luderitz for the festivities, along with The Honourable Prime Minister Geingob.
What are crayfish?
Well, to be specific, what we call “crayfish” here in Namibia are actually "West Coast Rock Lobster" (Jasus lalandii). The Crayfish Festival is a gastronomical feast of lobsters – if you’ve eaten them before, you’ll know why we go crazy for the firm and slightly sweet lobster tails. Steam them with a little lemon butter, or grill them on the braai (barbeque) and eat them fresh off the flames. Delicious! You might also hear the locals talking about “kreef” which is the Afrikaans word for crayfish.
What makes Lüderitz crayfish special?
It's not just marketing hype – the extreme conditions in the Atlantic ocean off the coast of Namibia means these Lüderitz crayfish have the upper hand. The strong South Atlantic winds create an upwelling in the ocean that makes for the perfect environment for nutrients and micro-organisms to thrive. In fact, it is estimated that the annual new production of Phytoplankton and Zooplankton in the Benguela system is 30 to 65 times more productive per unit area than the global ocean average.
Where to eat Lüderitz crayfish
The festival stalls will be serving up a host of different crayfish delights. But for those looking for a sit-down crayfish meal with fine South African sparkling wine or French Champagne, then try lunch at the Penguin Restaurant at the Lüderitz Nest Hotel.
Where to stay
The Crayfish Festival is a very busy time for the fishing town, so if you haven’t already organised accommodation, be sure to book as soon as you can. Click here to find accommodation in Lüderitz.
What to do around Lüderitz
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Taste some fresh Namibian oysters in between all the crayfish; they’re some of the tastiest in the world!
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Take a walk around the town to see the early 20th Century German Art Nouveau buildings
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Get out on the ocean with a Catamaran Marine Tour (email here to book)
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Visit the ghost town of Kolmanskop (only 10kms from Lüderitz) for a date with history and some incredible photo opportunities
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Explore the Sperrgebiet National Park, one of Namibia’s newest National Parks that was closed to the public for nearly a century
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Take a marine cruise from the waterfront to see Dias Point, outlying islands with Namibia’s largest colony of African Penguins (Halifax Island), Heaviside Dolphins, Cape Fur Seals (Seal Island) and sometimes whales.
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Desert adventure activities are available including; 4x4 Guided and 4x4 self-drive tours into the vast Namib Naukluft Park to the north and the Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet National Park) to the south.
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Lüderitz is also home to the world’s premier kite and wind surfing speed sailing event, the Lüderitz Speed Challenge, which takes place every year between November to December.
Lüderitz architecture
Kolmanskop
Sperrgebiet
Bogenfels
Posted on Thu, Apr 25, 2013 @ 04:52 AM
Paul has been photographing Namibia from the land and the skies for over 40 years. His keen eye has won him more than 50 awards, both locally and internationally. We asked this Hasselblad Masters finalist to tell us just how he manages to capture the unusual, the unseen, the unreal…
One of his six photos nominated for 2014 Hasselblad Masters awards "Etosha Rain", photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
Tell us about your most unforgettable moment while shooting in Namibia.
Impossible to do, as there is simply too many to mention - from being stuck for eight hours after a cloud burst in the Namib desert, to being charged by a protective lioness and an angry rhino, to skirting around thunderstorms over the desert in my aeroplane. Each one priceless!
Thunderclouds, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
Animal tracks in the Etosha pan, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
Sand Tree, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
Skeleton Coast, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
How does Namibia compare to other places you’ve photographed?
Namibia as a very demanding mistress and doesn't give up her secrets easily. She requires passion & dedication as well as a lot of sacrifice. If this is not your game, go the zoo.
“When you cross the barren planes, dunes & landscapes of Namibia for miles with a camera and tripod on your back, you shed parts of yourself all the way. You end up raw and naked, having gone through a catharsis. It changes you, it changes how you see.”
Etosha pan, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
Which photos shot in Namibia are you most proud of?
I find it extremely difficult choosing. My best three photo's always comes from my last shoot. Each time I think I have reached the ultimate, only to be elevated to yet a higher level during the next shoot. I would rather leave the choice of the best three images to the viewer.
What is your equipment of choice for your Namibian expeditions?
Other than my camera and tripod, a warm jacket. Not even in the South Pole have I been colder than in the heart of the Namib Desert.
Desert Storm, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
A photographer friend is desperate to capture the best of Namibia. What top 3 tips would you give them?
#1 The best introduction to Namibia will probably include a place somewhere in the Namib Desert, the coast and of course Etosha National Park.
#2 Do your homework, read Travel News Namibia and download Namibia Holiday & Travel (also available on the App store through Namibia Tourism Information) to get the best information about where you’re headed.
# 3 Make sure you plan enough time. Namibia isn't an instant destination and you will regret it forever if you don't allow more time.
Etosha, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
Eye of Etosha, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
After desert rains, photo by Paul van Schalkwyk
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About Paul van Schalkwyk
Paul has received international acclaim for his multiple award winning films and photographs, which have been broadcast and published around the globe. He is a successful advertising practitioner and filmmaker but for the past ten years he has heeded the call to return to a life long and strong passion for photography. His acclaimed photographs have found a place in homes of many local and international collectors, galleries and institutions, and his are regularly published in local and international magazines. In 2013, Paul became the first Namibian to be nominated as a finalist for the prestigious Hasselblad Masters award. See more images at www.paulvans.com and www.tala.com.na or find Paul on Facebook
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More Photographer Tips
This part of a series of blog post interviews with professional photographers on how to Capture Namibia. Every week for the next two months, we'll be posting their tips and tricks, as well as their mind-blowing photographs.
Follow us to get the latest in the Capture Namibia series:
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