MAIN Travel Africa Namibia

Involved in a tug-of-war among various European powers, followed by a struggle for autonomy with South Africa in the late 20th century, Namibia is a relatively new country which only gained its independence in 1990.

Remaining as one of the least populated countries on the continent, today Namibia is a favorite destination for off-the-beaten track Africa, offering holiday-goers travel adventures of spectacular variety.

Located on the Eastern Atlantic coast next door to South Africa, the country's northern reaches include the Etosha Pan, home to enormous herds of antelope, zebra, and elephants - while along the coast lies the Namib Desert as well as the richest source of diamonds on the planet (the Diamond Coast to the south) where the hot sands run down to the icy waters of the Atlantic, resulting in perpetual and other-worldly fog.

For more spectacular natural wonders, no trip to Namibia would be complete without experiencing the Fish River Canyon, second in size only to the Grand Canyon in the U.S.

Namibia Tourism Board - The official site, offering a colorful overview, guides to major attractions by region, star-rated hotels, bed & breakfasts and other lodging, photo gallery, maps, practical travel tips, related news & links.

Namibia Online Travel Guide - Extensive knowledge of the country, it's people and major attractions by region, travel routes, tours & safaris, roads & traffic, with guides to recommended hotels & lodges.

Namibia Travel Online - One-stop browsing for maps, photos and guides to hotels, guest farms, lodges & camps, safari & tour operators, car rentals, shopping. In English and German.

Namibia Travel Information - Lonely Planet guide with a brief overview plus more detailed guides to the Central Plateu, Windhoek, Etosha National Park and Fish River Canyon, what to see and do, best times to go, photo gallery, travel tips in the related forum, links.

Namibia travel guide - In-depth look at cultural customs & etiquette, top attractions and other things to see and do, getting around by car, train or bus, plus practical safety & travel tips, from Wikitravel.

Namibia on the Internet - Like it says, with useful links to travel & government portals, major media, information on culture & history, politics.

Greatest Places: Namib Page - Wonderful, kid-friendly presentation on life in the desert including maps, photos, video & audio clips.