NamibRand Nature Reserve
NamibRand Nature Reserve is a stunning gem located in Namibia's vast landscape. With over 2,000 km² of land, this reserve is one of the largest in Africa and boasts a focus on low-impact tourism to ensure financial self-sustenance. You'll enjoy a truly unique experience as there is a limit of one bed per 1,000 hectares, meaning it is never crowded.
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Wildlife on the NamibRand Reserve
The NamibRand Nature Reserve is home to a diverse range of desert-dwelling wildlife species. On a tailor-made safari in NamibRand, visitors can expect to encounter oryx and springbok, which are among the most commonly sighted animals in the reserve. Additionally, kudu, Hartman’s and Burchell’s zebra, giraffe, hartebeest, and baboon can also be found within the reserve’s boundaries.
For those looking for a thrill, the reserve is also home to two types of hyena - brown and spotted - as well as the elusive leopard, which are the largest predators in the reserve. Smaller predators such as the black-backed jackal, aardwolf, caracal, and genet can also be spotted here.
Activities on the NamibRand Reserve
The NamibRand Reserve offers an array of activities that cater to different preferences of visitors. One of the most popular activities is a 4x4 safari, where visitors can comfortably explore the reserve and observe the desert-dwelling wildlife with the help of an experienced guide. For those who prefer to be on foot, the reserve also offers guided nature walks, where visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of the area.
For a unique and memorable experience, visitors can also opt for a horseback ride across the reserve, providing a different perspective of the breathtaking landscape. Alternatively, take to the skies on a hot air balloon safari, offering a bird's-eye view of the reserve and its surrounding mountains.
Regardless of the chosen activity, visitors can expect an immersive experience that allows them to appreciate the reserve's unique eco-system and its inhabitants. The reserve's commitment to low-impact tourism ensures that visitors can enjoy these activities without disturbing the natural balance of the area, making it an exclusive and sustainable destination for eco-tourists.
Stargazing on the NamibRand Reserve
The NamibRand Nature Reserve is a unique and breathtaking location for stargazing. It is located in one of the darkest regions of the world and is a designated Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserve, which means that the reserve has exceptionally low light pollution and offers exceptional views of the night sky. Visitors to the reserve can experience a stunning display of stars, planets, and galaxies. The reserve’s remote location, high altitude, and arid desert climate also make for clear skies almost every night of the year.
In 2012, the International Dark-Sky Association designated the NamibRand Nature Reserve a Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of only 13 such reserves in the world at the time. This certification recognizes the reserve’s commitment to preserving the natural darkness of the night sky, which is essential for the health of nocturnal wildlife and for human well-being. The reserve’s low-impact tourism model helps to maintain the integrity of the natural environment and to minimize the impact of human activities on the dark sky. Visitors to the reserve can take guided night sky tours, during which they can learn about the stars and planets from expert guides, as well as enjoy stunning views of the Milky Way and other celestial objects.
Best Time to Visit
The NamibRand Nature Reserve is an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the Namib Desert. The best time to visit the reserve depends on your interests and preferences. The peak tourist season is from June to September, during the dry winter months when the days are warm and sunny, and the nights are chilly. This time is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals tend to gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them. Additionally, the clear skies offer exceptional star-gazing opportunities, as the dry season brings in very little cloud cover.
The shoulder season from April to May and October to November also presents good weather conditions, fewer crowds, and slightly lower prices. The temperatures are mild during the day, and there is still a chance to see wildlife, although it may be less concentrated around water sources.
The summer months from December to March can be hot and humid, with occasional rainfall, and may not be ideal for outdoor activities. However, this time is perfect for bird watching, as the rains bring out a variety of species, and the landscapes become lush and green. It is worth noting that some lodges and camps within the reserve close during this period, so it is advisable to check availability before planning a trip.
Month-by-Month Guide to Weather
January:
Average high temperature of 31°C (88°F) and low of 17°C (63°F), with virtually no rainfall.
February:
Average high temperature of 30°C (86°F) and low of 16°C (61°F), with virtually no rainfall.
March:
Average high temperature of 28°C (82°F) and low of 14°C (57°F), with occasional light rainfall.
April:
Average high temperature of 26°C (79°F) and low of 12°C (54°F), with occasional light rainfall.
May:
Average high temperature of 23°C (73°F) and low of 9°C (48°F), with occasional light rainfall.
June:
Average high temperature of 20°C (68°F) and low of 5°C (41°F), with virtually no rainfall.
July:
Average high temperature of 20°C (68°F) and low of 4°C (39°F), with virtually no rainfall.
August:
Average high temperature of 22°C (72°F) and low of 6°C (43°F), with virtually no rainfall.
September:
Average high temperature of 25°C (77°F) and low of 10°C (50°F), with occasional light rainfall.
October:
Average high temperature of 27°C (81°F) and low of 13°C (55°F), with occasional light rainfall.
November:
Average high temperature of 31°C (88°F) and average low temperature of 16°C (61°F). Average rainfall of 10mm (0.4 inches).
December:
Average high temperature of 32°C (90°F) and average low temperature of 18°C (64°F). Average rainfall of 20mm (0.8 inches).