Hauchabfontein Camping

Folk flock to this part of Namibia to see all its natural attractions, so it’s worth planning at least a few days to take them all in. The Namib-Naukluft National Park is one of the main draws: the largest game park in all Africa is about 40 minutes’ drive from Hauchabfontein and a fab place to spot birds, unusual insects and other animals including jackals and hyenas. The park’s scope also takes in the Naukluft Mountain Zebra Park (an hour’s drive), where you may spot the shy creatures in the wild, and the famed dunes of Sossusvlei (an hour and 15 minutes). Don’t forget your camera when you set off for the dunes – the colours and shifting shapes are simply stunning. Stop by at Sesriem Canyon (45 minutes) on the way to wander through the kilometre-long rocky gorge. If you’ve ever imagined yourself trotting through the desert on horseback, get your cowboy hat on and head to the riding centre 20 minutes from site. And if you actually just need a minute to relax and take it all in, stop off at Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate (25 minutes) for a taster of their wares (yup, that’s wine made in the desert – you can’t pass up that opportunity...).