1 200km, 7 destinations and a lifetime of memories

THE Namibia Tourism Board recently took 13 local media practitioners on a familiarisation trip through the Kalahari aimed at promoting southern Namibian tourism attractions.

From Windhoek, we traveled to Rehoboth, where we learned about the history of the people, had a hearty lunch at Lake Oanab and experienced a spectacular boat cruise on their first solar-powered boat.

Moving further south, we spent the night at the Hardap Dam Resort. Slightly disappointed in the rooms, food and the fact that there aren’t any activities available, the picturesque views of the sunrise over the dam made up for it. I understand they are renovating, but still, they need to do better.

The next morning, we visited Roots Farm which is situated 60km southwest of Mariental. This agricultural hub has the first and only commercial apple orchard in the country aimed at producing food for a sustainable food future. That afternoon, we chased the sunset and saw it glow over the red dunes of the Kalahari

Desert at Gondwana’s Kalahari Anib Lodge. Left mesmerised, I can truthfully say one hasn’t seen a beautiful sunset till one sees one in the south of Namibia. Looking for a serene and tranquil place? Gondwana Farm House in Stampriet is perfect. We spent the night here and if there’s one thing Gondwana gets right all the time, it is their hospitality and food. On the third day, a seven-hour drive - which was mainly on gravel roads - from Stampriet took us to the Harnas Wildlife Foundation 115km east of Gobabis. Here, we watched lions being fed and spent time with a local San family who showed us their ancient ways of life and how they are preserving these skills to survive in the wild. This activity forms part of the foundation’s activities. One thing I’ve learned on this trip is that private establishments take hospitality seriously. Our last stop on an amazing and educational trip was the N/a’ankuse Lodge and Wildlife Sanctuary – a conservation organisation dedicated to preserving the landscapes, cultures and wildlife of Namibia. I loved the luxurious lodge and all the amenities on offer.