Donna and I recently joined a group of eight for an incredible Gate 1 trip to Namibia. This was our 20th Gate 1 tour and after traveling 10,000 miles from our home, we arrived in the capital city of Windhoek, where we met our guide, Kenneth, and the rest of our travel companions: Kim and Andy from New York, David from Philadelphia, Ed from New Hampshire, and Pattie from Chicago. We all hit it off quickly, making the journey even more enjoyable as we explored Namibia together.
Our adventure began in the Namib Desert and took us across Namibia’s stunning landscapes. Along the way, we explored national parks, drove hundreds of miles on rugged African dirt roads, and embarked on unforgettable safaris. The wildlife was truly spectacular—black rhinos grazing in the distance, elephants moving gracefully in herds, and giraffes towering above the bush as they nibbled on treetops. We saw lions lounging in the sun, a cheetah stalking its prey, and families of zebra blending perfectly into the golden savannah. Springbok and eland roamed in large numbers, while ostriches dashed across the plains. And, of course, we spotted Namibia’s national animal, the elegant and resilient Oryx, with its striking black-and-white face and long, pointed horns.
One of the most memorable cultural experiences was visiting the Himba and Damara tribes in their villages. The Himba people, known for their red ochre-covered skin and intricate hairstyles, welcomed us warmly as our local guides shared insights into the tribe’s semi-nomadic way of life. We learned about their traditions, including how they use natural materials to create their distinctive red paste for skin protection, bathing and adornment. The women demonstrated their skill in crafting beautiful jewelry, while the men explained their role as cattle herders, a cornerstone of their culture.
The Damara people, one of Namibia’s oldest ethnic groups, showcased their rich heritage through music, and dance. Their “click” language was fascinating to hear, as it incorporates a series of unique clicking sounds. In a museum setting, we were introduced to their traditional way of life, which includes crafting tools and ornaments from natural resources, as well as their deep connection to the land. It was inspiring to see how these communities have preserved their heritage despite modern influences.
In addition to these cultural experiences, we marveled at ancient petroglyphs, hiked through breathtaking landscapes, and even stopped by a winery to sample local flavors. Throughout the trip, we savored Namibian cuisine and stayed in beautiful 4- and 5-star lodges that made the experience all the more luxurious.
Evenings were magical, with happy hour sundowners in stunning settings, followed by delicious meals shared with our newfound friends. From the diverse wildlife and incredible scenery to the warm camaraderie and expert guidance of Kenneth, the trip was nothing short of amazing—a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
