Petrichor is the earthy scent produced when rain falls on dry soil.
The scent of Africa.
Family Safaris
Highlights
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Spotting animals at waterholes in Etosha National Park
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Discovering the hidden life of the Namib Desert on a guided walk
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Climbing and sliding down giant sand dunes near Sossusvlei
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Sandboarding down the dunes of Swakopmund
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Relaxing by a campfire under the Milky Way after a day of water adventures on the
Orange River and kayaking among seals, turtles, and dolphins off the coast near Swakopmund
Namibia is an ideal destination for a family safari — it’s safe, easy to navigate on a self-drive journey, and packed with adventure for all ages. With a lower malaria risk than many other southern African countries, it’s a great choice for families looking to explore the outdoors.
Younger children will love nature walks, wildlife spotting, and dune scrambling, while teens can enjoy sandboarding, quad biking, animal tracking, or even skydiving.
Accommodation is family-friendly too, with options ranging from self-catering bungalows and campsites to luxury lodges (just check age policies in advance).
Central Namibia is especially suited for families. Swakopmund makes a perfect base with a variety of lodging, restaurants, and kid-friendly activities like kayaking with seals, sandboarding (ages 7+), and desert walks. Sossusvlei also offers plenty of fun — climb dunes, explore canyons, or stargaze under clear desert skies.
In the south, NamibRand Nature Reserve allows safe, guided desert walks, and children over 8 can join multi-day hikes. The Orange River offers gentle canoeing trips ideal for kids over 6, with stunning scenery along the way.
For classic safari experiences, head north to Etosha National Park, where families can witness incredible wildlife gatherings at waterholes — a truly unforgettable sight for children and adults alike.