Namibia

Namibia is a country on the southwestern coast of Africa. It has some of the tallest sand dunes in the world and the oldest desert on Earth. Namibia is one of the least crowded countries, with wide-open spaces and stunning landscapes.

Land and People

Only about 2.5 million people live in Namibia. The capital is Windhoek. The Namib Desert along the coast has towering red sand dunes. The Skeleton Coast is a foggy stretch of coastline with shipwrecks. The Etosha salt pan attracts lots of wildlife.

Culture and Fun Facts

The Namib Desert is about 55 million years old, making it the oldest desert on Earth. Namibia was the first African country to put environmental protection in its constitution. The Himba people cover their skin in red clay. People eat game meats and potjiekos, a stew cooked in a three-legged pot.

Fun Facts

• The Namib Desert is the oldest desert in the world at about 55 million years old.
• Namibia has some of the best stargazing in the world because of very low light pollution.
• Deadvlei in Namibia has dead trees that are over 900 years old standing in a white clay pan.

Did You Know?

Deadvlei in Namibia is a white clay pan surrounded by the tallest sand dunes in the world. Dead camel thorn trees stand there like dark statues. The trees died about 900 years ago but have not rotted because it is so dry. It is one of the most photographed spots in Africa.