Fun in the sun in Namibia

In 2006, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie journeyed to Namibia to have their first biological child, Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt. Since Namibia has the third lowest population density in the world, they probably didn't go there for the nightlife.

Camels walk convoy-style as they trek through the barren landscape. Picture: Wan-Chen Tsai

The couple’s reason for wandering out so far was predominantly based on evading the anticipated media frenzy back home and escaping city life.

They booked out every room at the Burning Shore Beach Lodge in Long Beach, a small residential area between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, with views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the backdrop of the Namib Desert on the other. It was here that they found the peace and quiet they longed for, and it’s exactly what tourists visiting the country have come to expect.

There’s something surprisingly serene about the arid Namib desert and its rust-red dunes – one of the world’s great natural wonders. Centuries old and built up into different shapes and sizes, these dunes are magnificent. They are also fantastic terrain for outdoor activities, many of which require strenuous climbing.

Desert Explorers in Swakopmund oﬀ ers camel rides
daily. Picture: Genevieve Vieira

Fortunately, the descent is far more pleasant, especially when riding a dune board at speeds of up to 60km/h. You’ll get sand in places where sand shouldn’t go, but it’s all part of the experience.

For those less enthusiastic about physical activity while on holiday, a quad bike, 4×4 or camel doing the work on your behalf is an alternative option. Desert Explorers in Swakopmund hosted Pitt and Jolie on numerous occasions, so what’s all the fuss about?

Riding a camel (not the most comfortable of rides – particularly for men), allows you to properly take in the wide open space of the desert. The trips are led by guides moving to the camels’ relaxed rhythm. The desert may seem barren, but it is alive with animals (spiders, snakes, scorpions) adapted to survive on the fog brought in from Ocean.