Namibia is a dream destination for photographers and the country I visited the most in recent years. With its dramatic desert landscapes, diverse wildlife, and striking contrasts, this African gem offers an unparalleled canvas for creative expression. Even after my 20+ trips to Namibia I am still amazed every time by those vast and wild lands. Whether you’re shooting wildlife, landscapes, or night skies, this guide will help you plan the perfect photographic journey.
GETTING AROUND in NAMIBIA
Exploring Namibia is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. With its vast, rugged landscapes and long stretches of remote terrain, how you choose to travel can greatly shape your experience. Here’s what you need to know to decide the best way to traverse this incredible country.
Self-Driving in Namibia
It’s definitely possible to self-drive Namibia. In fact, I’ve done this on most of my trips. While the freedom that comes with this choice is unmatched, it’s not for the faint of heart.
Pros:
Complete independence to stop for photos and explore off-the-beaten-path locations.
You can explore the country at your own pace.
Cons:
Namibia’s roads are mostly unpaved, with gravel, sand, and deep ruts being common.
a great 4x4 experience is crucial, as conditions can be challenging and being in remote locations you need a certain degree of self-sufficiency. A rescue caused by a car breakdown can take several days and can be very expensive.
Long driving times between destinations require stamina and careful planning.
Tips:
Opt for a well-equipped 4x4 with spare tires and recovery gear. ASCO car hire is my company of choice.
Stay on the main roads, unless you have a lot of experience in 4x4 driving and navigating unknown terrain.
Plan fuel stops carefully, as stations can be sparse.
Charter Flights
For those with limited time, charter flights offer a fast and efficient way to cover large distances. While undeniably convenient, this option comes at a premium.
Pros:
Aerial views of Namibia’s breathtaking landscapes, including the dunes and coastlines.
Saves significant travel time, allowing you to maximize time at destinations.
Cons:
Very expensive, making it inaccessible for budget travelers.
Misses the incredible experience of driving through the vast landscapes.
Guided Tours
Joining a guided tour is an excellent choice for those who want a stress-free experience with expert knowledge without missing on the adventure feeling of overlanding.
Pros:
Professional guides handle navigation, driving, and logistics, allowing you to focus on photography and exploration.
Includes safari game drives and park entrance permits
Access to hidden gems and insights into the culture and wildlife.
Safety and convenience, especially for first-time visitors or those uncomfortable with self-driving.
Cons:
Can be more expensive than self-driving but often includes accommodations and meals.
Going on a guided tour in Namibia is definitely the best option, especially if you travel there for the first time. The safari guides are outstanding and they have heavy levels of expertise and understanding on the wildlife and nature of the region. You will learn a lot and get great photos.
The company that I recommend is Explore Namibia.
Better yet, you can join one of my photography tours in Namibia. I currently have open dates for 2025 and 2026.
BEST PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS IN NAMIBIA
1. Sossusvlei and Deadvlei
The heart of the Namib Desert, Sossusvlei, is famous for its mighty red dunes and stark, otherworldly landscapes. Deadvlei, a clay pan surrounded by dunes, features 700 years old petrified trees that stand in haunting contrast to the dry, cracked ground.
What Makes It Special: The colors here are surreal. As the sun rises, the dunes glow in fiery shades of orange and red, while the dead trees in Deadvlei create dramatic silhouettes against the white pan.
Where to stay:
NWR Sossus Dune lodge
NWR Sossusvlei camp (camping only)
Make sure you book well in advance as accommodation is often fully booked months or even years in advance.
Key Shots:
Capture the curving lines of Dune 45 or Big Daddy in early morning light.
Deadvlei’s iconic trees work wonderfully for minimalist compositions.
Use a telephoto lens to isolate textures and abstract patterns in the dunes.
Challenges: The desert heat can be intense, so plan to shoot early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Pro Tip: Make sure you overnight in Sesriem inside the park gates to get early access to the park before the crowds arrive.
2. Etosha National Park
One of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations and one of the oldest parks, Etosha National Park offers the opportunity to capture some of the most iconic species in their natural habitat. The park’s name means “Great White Place,” referring to the massive salt pan that dominates its center.
What Makes It Special: Wildlife congregates around the waterholes, making it easier to spot and photograph multiple species in one location. The stark, white landscape provides a unique backdrop.
Where to stay:
Okaukejo: the first stop for most people after entering the park from Andersson gate. A very good place to start, but also the most crowded camp in Etosha.
Namutoni: close to Von Lindequist Gate gate, this camp is also quite busy, but usually a bit less than Okaukejo. In my experience I find that this area of Etosha provides some of the best opportunities for photographers.
Olifanstrus Camp: one of the most remote camps in Eothsa, only suitable if you’re equipped with roof tent or ground tent.
Make sure you book well in advance as accommodation is often fully booked months or even years in advance.
Key Shots:
Lions or elephants framed against the shimmering salt pan.
Giraffes bending to drink, creating dynamic and unusual poses.
Night photography of floodlit waterholes at camps like Okaukuejo.
Challenges: Animals can be elusive, so patience and understanding of wildlife behaviour is essential. Park rules are also quite strict and it’s not allowed to get out of the vehicle at any time.
Pro Tip: Make sure you have a lens that is at least 300mm; if you can get to 600mm that’s even better. Offroad driving is not allowed within the park so sometimes you will not be able to get too close to the animals.
3. Damaraland
Damaraland is a rugged and remote region offering dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and unique wildlife. It’s known for its rocky mountains, vast plains, and rare desert-adapted elephants and rhinos. In this region we can find some of the biggest populations of free roaming elephants, rhinos and lions outside of National Parks.
What Makes It Special: the incredible remoteness of the area and the elusive free roaming wildlife makes Damaraland an incredible and unique photography destination.
Key Shots:
Desert elephants and black rhinos framed against arid landscapes.
Ancient rock engravings at Twyfelfontein.
Sunset light illuminating the incredible landscape.
Challenges: Wildlife is harder to spot than in Etosha, and the remoteness and rugged terrain requires advanced 4x4 skills.
Pro Tip: Damaraland is a unique experience not only for photography, but for the adventure that comes with visiting such a remote place.
4. Kolmanskop
Kolmanskop is a ghost town near Lüderitz, once a bustling diamond mining settlement during Namibia's early 20th-century diamond rush. Abandoned in the 1950s, the town has been gradually reclaimed by the desert, creating an eerie yet fascinating destination for photographers.
What Makes It Special: Kolmanskop was built in the German colonial style, complete with lavish homes, a ballroom, a hospital and even the first X-ray machine in southern Africa. Now its sand-filled interiors and crumbling facades tell the story of its rise and fall, offering hauntingly beautiful photographic opportunities.
Key Shots:
Sand-filled interiors of houses, illuminated by soft light streaming through broken windows.
The grand remains of structures like the ballroom and hospital.
Close-ups of weathered details, such as peeling wallpaper and sand-dusted staircases.
Challenges: Midday light can be harsh, and shifting sands can obscure or reveal details unexpectedly.
Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning for the best light and fewer visitors, and make sure you get a full day photography permit. Take time to explore different buildings to uncover unique compositions. Bring a tripod for low-light conditions inside the structures.
5. Spitzkoppe
Spitzkoppe, often called the "Matterhorn of Namibia," is a striking granite mountain rising dramatically from the flat Namibian desert. Formed over 120 million years ago, it holds both geological and cultural significance, with ancient San rock art scattered throughout the area.
What Makes It Special: The natural arches, rock formations, and golden hues of the granite make it a dream location for landscape and astrophotographers. Its isolation and clear skies offer some of the best stargazing in Namibia.
Key Shots:
The iconic Spitzkoppe Arch, framing the main peak, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Close-ups of San rock art, showcasing ancient human history.
Wide-angle shots of the rock formations.
Challenges: The terrain is rugged, and access requires some hiking. Nights can be cold and the area is remote, so preparation is essential.
Pro Tip: Scout locations during the day for compositions, and stay overnight to capture both golden hour and the night sky. Use a sturdy tripod for long exposures in low light.
6. Swakopmund
The Swakopmund area, situated along Namibia's Atlantic coast, offers a diverse range of photography opportunities. From vast sand dunes to vibrant birdlife and unique coastal landscapes, this region is a must-visit for photographers.
What Makes It Special: The dunes between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are a good sunset location; Walvis Bay’s lagoon is home to thousands of flamingos, while the dramatic meeting of dunes and ocean at Sandwich Harbour creates unforgettable compositions.
Key Shots:
The towering dunes at sunrise or sunset, emphasizing textures and shadows.
Flamingos wading in the shallow waters of Walvis Bay’s lagoon, perfect for capturing reflections.
The surreal contrast of ocean waves meeting desert dunes at Sandwich Harbour.
Challenges: Coastal fog can limit visibility, and access to Sandwich Harbour requires a guided 4x4 tour due to the challenging terrain.
Pro Tip: For flamingos, bring a telephoto lens to capture details without disturbing the birds.
7. Zambezi Region
The Zambezi Region (formerly known as the Caprivi Strip) offer a lush, water-rich contrast to Namibia’s arid landscapes. With dense vegetation, winding rivers, and abundant wildlife, this area provides incredible opportunities for photographers.
What Makes It Special: The region’s network of rivers—Zambezi, Chobe, Kwando, and Linyanti—attracts large concentrations of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Part of the region borders Chobe National Park, offering cheaper game-viewing experiences compared to the busier Botswana side while keeping the same level of wildlife viewing.
Key Shots:
Elephants crossing rivers or bathing along the Chobe Riverbanks, often during golden hour.
Birds in flight, such as African fish eagles or malachite kingfishers, along the waterways.
Dramatic landscapes with rivers winding through green floodplains, especially during the rainy season.
Challenges: Dense vegetation can obstruct views, and humidity in the wet season may pose challenges for your equipment.
Pro Tip: Take a boat tour along the Chobe River for unique low-angle shots of wildlife and stunning reflections. Use a long lens for wildlife and a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes.
8. Fish River Canyon
The Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world, stretching over 160 km in length and up to 27 km in width. This immense geological feature is a must-see for photographers seeking dramatic, wide-open landscapes.
What Makes It Special: The canyon’s rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and dramatic colors provide endless opportunities for panoramic shots, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light highlights the textures of the rock formations.
Key Shots:
The sweeping vistas of the canyon from viewpoints like the Fish River Canyon Viewpoint.
Close-ups of geological details in the canyon walls and surrounding terrain.
Sunset shots, with the golden light casting long shadows over the canyon floor.
Challenges: While the canyon provides breathtaking landscapes, it is unusually difficult to capture the grandness of it in photograph, making it a very difficult location for photography.
Pro Tip: Bring a tripod for panoramic shots and use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and bring out the colors in the canyon.
9. Quiver Tree Forest
The Quiver Tree Forest, located near Keetmanshoop, is a striking landscape filled with ancient, otherworldly trees. These unique trees, also known as Aloe dichotoma, are a highlight for photographers looking for unusual, sculptural subjects against a dramatic backdrop.
What Makes It Special: The twisted, spindly quiver trees create surreal compositions, particularly at sunset or sunrise when the light casts long shadows and highlights the trees’ unique shapes. The area is also home to dolerite formations that add to the dramatic scenery.
Key Shots:
The iconic quiver trees silhouetted against the glowing sky at sunrise or sunset.
Quiver tree forest is one of the best place to capture the milky way, using the silhouette of the trees as main subejct.
Challenges: The area is on private ground so make sure you have all the permits required.
Pro Tip: For star photography, the Quiver Tree Forest is an excellent spot to capture the Milky Way rising behind the trees—use a wide-angle lens and long exposure for stunning results.
Essential Camera Gear for Namibia
Camera gear is a very personal choice and there is not an “all in one” perfect solution. Everything has pros and cons and the perfect gear can vary a lot depending on our specific goals and how serious we are about photography as main reason of the trip versus photography only being a way to document our trip.
That being said, Namibia offer both incredible landscape and wildlife photo opportunities and this is my ideal camera gear for a trip to Namibia.
For camera lenses, I’d bring at least 3 lenses. You’ll likely want a wide angle lens like the Canon 15-35mm to get those big open views and as a general reportage lens. The second lens you want to bring is a good telephoto zoom, something like a 100-500mm or, even better, a 200-600mm. This will be your main lens in most situations, not only with wildlife where the flexibility of a zoom is key, but also with the vast desert landscapes where I consistently use telephoto lenses to compress the wide landscapes. The last lens depends more in your main focus. If you are serious in astrophotography you might want a wide angle prime lens, like a 14mm f1.4, to make the most of the incredible milky way opportunities. If you are focusing more on wildlife you’ll likely want something like a 400 or 600mm prime.
When shooting from a vehicle, handheld gets you better flexibility to take good photos with wildlife, so there’s no need for a big tripod for your giant telephoto. However, you will want a good tripod for your landscape images, so get something stable enough to shoot even in the frequent strong wind you will find in the desert.
If you have a polarizer bring it as it makes an incredible difference when shooting in the red dunes of Sossusvlei.
Remember to bring some camera cleaning gear; Namibia is generally super dusty and you will need to clean your cameras and lenses on a daily basis.
A photographers itinerary for Namibia
Namibia is an incredibly big and divers country full of hidden gems and to properly visit all of them you would need 2 months. To make sure you visit all the best location you still need 12 to 14 days.
A first, shorter option: starting in Windhoek you can drive straight to Sossusvlei, spending a couple nights there. You can then drive north to Swakopmund (don’t miss a stop in Solitaire to refuel and try the famous apple pie). After a couple night in Swakop you can drive a couple hours for an overnight in Spitzkoppe and then proceed north to spend 3 to 5 days in Etosha before heading back to Windhoek.
If you want to see more, after arriving in Windhoek you can head South to Keetmahsoop and the Quiver Tree Forest, then proceed to Luderitz and Kolmanskop. From there you can drive back North to Sossusvlei and from there you can follow the first itinerary.
Camera safety
In all my trips in Namibia I always felt quite safe and never had any issues. That said, there is theft everywhere. So don’t be silly with your camera gear and just leave it unattended. Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicles and hotels rooms, and follow the common sense.
My Namibia photography trip
If you’re a photographer and you haven’t been to Namibia, the best way to see it is by joining a photography tour. I have travelled multiple times to every corner of Namibia and while I like getting lost for days in the most remote regions, I know most people won’t have the luxury of spending several weeks at the time exploring the country.
For this reason I put together an itinerary designed to give you the best out of your time spent in Namibia, making sure you will always be in the right place at the right time to witness and capture moments you will treasure for a lifetime.
I have currently openings for tours in 2025 and 2026; if you want to stay updated on my other photography workshops and trips, get early access and special rates you can register in the priority list here.
