NamibRand Nature Reserve, part of the Namib Desert

Wild encounters in NamibRand: A sunset dune and an unexpected visitor

NamibRand Nature Reserve,
near Wolwedans Dune Camp, 
Namibia, 2022.

NamibRand Nature Reserve,
4 hours scenic drive, Namibia, 2024.

We are in the NamibRand Nature Reserve with our good friends from Denmark. It´s a vast private conservation area located in southwestern Namibia, near the Namib-Naukluft National Park. It spans approximately 200,000 hectares (2,150 km2), a little less than the size of the island of Funen in Denmark, making it one of the largest private nature reserves in Southern Africa. It was established in 1984 by the late J.A. Brückner.

Our friends on the sand track,
NamibRand Nature Reserve,
Namibia, 2024.

Expansive plains, towering mountain ranges,
iconic red sand dunes and blog authors boots!
NamibRand, Namibia 2024.

When we look around, we see a landscape characterized by expansive plains, towering mountain ranges, and iconic red sand dunes. The contrast between these features creates absolutely stunning vistas, particularly during sunrise and sunset. The reserve is part of the ancient Namib Desert, allegedly one of the oldest deserts in the world. It’s known for its unique and spectacular scenery, much like the rest of our favorite country, Namibia.

Sunrise from dune near our campsite "Venus",
NamibRand, Namibia, 2024.

We are on the lookout for oryx (gemsbok), springbok, zebras, and a variety of smaller mammals, reptiles, and insects. We remember to check for snakes and scorpions, especially after dark. The last time we were here was in 2022, when we walked through the desert for three days following the Tok Tokkie Trail (link post). At night, we slept outside in the "open-air theater" of the sand dunes with a spectacular view of the clear dark sky. In 2012, the NamibRand Nature Reserve was designated Africa's first International Dark Sky Reserve. This recognition highlights its exceptionally clear skies, making it a prime location for stargazing. One of the nights, two hyenas walked through our camp. Fortunately, they took no interest in us.

Night sky, Venus Campsite, NamibRand.
Photo taken by blogauthor on Iphone 14 max,
30 sec on tripod.

This time, we are sleeping on top of our Toyota Land Cruiser 79 4X4 camper, which we have hired through Bushlore (YouTube video of the Bushlore Land Cruiser). . We are "parked" in one of the three individual "Family Hideout Campsites," situated in a remote corner of the NamibRand Nature Reserve. It makes us feel a great sense of isolation, and we have completely exclusive access to the pristine desert environment around us. We feel very privileged and blessed to be alone in the middle of nowhere with such stunning views of the Namib Desert’s iconic landscapes. Around us are red sand dunes, rugged mountains, and vast plains.

Sunset over our camp at Venus Campsite,
NamibRand Nature Reserve,
Namibia, 2024. 

Late at night, we are sitting around the campfire with our friends. We listen to all the sounds and talk about nothing and everything. What a joy.

Night visitor at Venus Campsite,
NamibRand Nature Reserve,
Namibia, 2024.

The individual Family Hideout Campsites are equipped with all essential amenities. We are at Venus Campsite which is stunningly located between the dunes in NamibRand. There is a large wooden deck with a table and bench set where you can sit. Outside, there’s a large kitchen sink, and indoors, you’ll find a shower room, a toilet room, and two sinks. Nearby, there’s a grill area and direct access to the sand dunes. Right next to the campsite is the highest dune in the area, which you can climb to watch the sunset. It’s also close to a 4x4 track that you can drive yourself (remember to lower tire pressure, but it’s not difficult). From our camp, we have a direct view of the nearby waterhole!

Nice terrace, Venus Campsite, NamibRand,
Namibia, 2024.

Nearby sanddune, Venus Campsite. 
On the way to watch sunset with G&T.
NamibRand, Namibia, 2024.

The first evening was just about exciting enough! On the small step leading up to our terrace, there was a horned adder, a small but highly venomous snake known for its distinctive horns above the eyes. Thankfully, we didn’t step on it, and during the night, it slithered away. It was a good reminder of the wild nature surrounding us! It reminded us of our scorpion encounter a weeks before (link post)

Horned Adder on our terrasse!!
Venus Campsite, NamibRand, 
Namibia, 2024.