Namibia - Kalahari and Namib Deserts

Our guide Charl Schoombee picked us up by 9:00 am at the Thamalakane River Lodge to start our long drive from Maun across the border between Botswana and Namibia. We ended up driving because transportation by airplane meant that we had to fly to South Africa either Johannesburg or Cape Town before flying to Windhoek, Namibia. During Covid, the national airline of Namibia was shut down by the government. We were still in the Kalahari Desert and would be for our next two accommodations.

The border crossing from Ghazi to Buitepos was seamless as Charl knew what we needed to complete. We had a short trip after the border to reach Kalahari Bush Breaks our accommodation. This was a game farm so the animals in the area were raised by the owners and could be killed for meat. We were there one night and the antelope would sneak up to the pool area for a drink. Whenever the owner saw them she would come out of the house to chase them away. 

Our next day was also a long drive to Kalahari Anib Lodge. This was a game farm and a large property. Bill went on a game drive. I had enough of being in a vehicle so stayed at the accommodation. There were multiple groups that arrived during the afternoon. Bill enjoyed the game drive. I had a drink at the bar with Charl and watched the people arrive. 

The Namib Desert was our next destination.

We had two nights planned at the Desert Homestead Lodge. The first night was very restful and a great meal. We had the opportunity to try Kudu a slice of wild game meat. It was very tender and delicious. The wind picked up during the afternoon but we were still able to enjoy the accommodation.

Resting by the pool

The next morning we were up before dawn to make the drive to Sossusvlei when the Sesriem Gate opened. This is a national park area and you are not allowed to be driving in the park after sunset or before dawn. 

The sand dunes in this area are red from iron oxidation. This was a beautiful area to visit and photograph.  Our guide knew exactly where to go to get great pictures without the hoards of people from the vans and bus tours.

Sand blowing across the area.

The trees in this area do not rot. The area is so dry they are preserved. At one time a river ran through this area but was cut off by the encroaching sand dunes.

Where do you think the sand comes from? I will tell you when we get to Walvis Bay.

Our last stop was Sesriem Canyon.

Sesriem Canyon

Back to the Desert Homestead Lodge for the afternoon. During the afternoon we rested did a short hike, and watched the animals at the lodge's man-made waterhole.

Desert Homestead main building

Oryx

View of the lodge from our hike.

The next morning we had breakfast and were on our way to Walvis Bay. 

Morning View from Lodge

Drive to Walvis Bay and Swakopmund

The next blog post is Walvis Bay and Swakopmund.