South Africa: Bates Family & Christine Marine shipwrecks

SAHRA Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

September 6:

“This day in our shipwreck and aeronautical wreck history”

1880: Bates Family, this steam-powered ship caught alight and was abandoned on the 2nd of September, to founder four days later on this day, near Cape Agulhas in the Western Cape.

1995: Christine Marine, this fishing vessel was scuttled by the South African Navy south of the Cape Peninsula in the Western Cape.

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia

Namibia: Diamond mining process

Diamond mining process

The initial mining process started off with miners and labourer’s creeping along their stomachs and knees in search of and collecting diamonds in jam tins strung from their necks.

The process had to be improved, consequently resulting in them using sieves to separate the sand from the larger grains containing the diamonds.  The method of sifting out the fine sand by submerging the sieve containing the gravel in a trough filled with seawater while rotating it was introduced by Charlie Bannau. The heavier minerals like diamonds accumulated in the center of the sieve.

Then followed the “Babies” swinging sieves suspended from 3 chains, ordinarily a worker would rock such a sieve like a baby in a cradle.

Soon thereafter the introduction of the trommel sieve followed. For those prospectors mining on their own the one-man box was the perfect option.  This special wooden crate contained sieves, jig and shovel.  The box was shipped from Swakopmund to Conception Bay and then transported by wagon to the mining area.

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia

Namibia: The unsolved mystery of the Vlissingen

The unsolved mystery of the Vlissingen

Ultimately, Europe is the Mecca for treasure hunters. Conversely, when it comes to finding lost treasures Namibia unfortunately does not provide the same opportunities. Consequently, if the opportunity does arise to find any kind of possible treasure then my interest is immediately sparked.  Such an opportunity arose on a visit to Meob Bay which was determined to be the last resting place of the Vlissingen.  The treasures to look out for were 1746 copper coins (Duiten) and 1743 Silver Pillar Dollars.

On 9 January 1747, the 130 feet long United Dutch East India Company (VOC) ship Vlissingen left the Netherlands, on its 5th journey. Unfortunately for the Company and the 227 crew aboard, the vessel was never to return. Bearing in mind that the Vlissingen reported that many of its crew were already sick when still in the North Atlantic, it is highly likely that illness and death played a role in the demise of the vessel, besides the structural damage she had incurred. Bad weather at the time of crossing the Atlantic could have been another contributing factor. To this day the circumstances of her vanishing remains a mystery.

As part of her cargo she carried thousands of copper coins (Doits / Duiten) and an unidentified amount of silver dollars.

The Duiten were specifically minted for the Zeeland Chamber of the Dutch East India Company. The coins were struck in 1746, in the town of Middelburg. It was common practice for outward-bound vessels to carry coins and bar metal that was used as currency to obtain Asiatic goods.  Homeward-bound ships mainly carried oriental products such as spices, textiles and porcelain, as well as large quantities of Dutch coins.  The coins found near Meob Bay dated 1746, indicated that they had probably not been in circulation and were on their way to the Dutch trading posts in the East.

Old diamond mining reports dating back to the early 20th century mention silver and copper coins being found scattered along a part of the Namibian coast near Meob Bay. The silver coins originated from Mexico when this was still a Spanish colony and were used by the VOC to trade in the East Indies, moreover also known as the romantic “piece of eight” and was the very first U.S. Dollar in the United States until 1857. These coins were actually “cut” into 8 pieces, for change.

A couple of years ago a tour guide made a spectacular discovery between the sand dunes at Conception Water, hundreds of copper Duiten lay scattered on the sand.  It is suspected that a miner, labourer or traveler collected them whilst walking along the beach. Obviously, the bag with its useless contents did not withstand the harsh elements resulting in it rupturing scattering the coins onto the ground. Indeed, a spectacular find.

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia

Namibia: early days of diamond exploration - water delivery

Where there is Water there is Life........

The biggest challenge by far these early pioneers had to overcome was fresh water, particularly the shortage thereof.

Fresh water supplies to Conception Water were delivered by boat and then transported by mules and camels to the individual mine fields.

Fortunately, potable water found among the dunes of Conception Water during 1913 consequently resulted in the sinking of wells and a windmill being erected.

Anyone who has been to this laborious area would realize the massive task and effort it took to construct the 80 km pipe line across the dunes and linking it with the Meob Bay pipeline. 360 ton (13,300 pieces) of 6m long steel pipes were used to cover the 80 km. These imported pipes from Germany arrived by boat and then transported on ox wagons to the area.

Transportation of water to the fields was done using metal rolling vats covered with wooden strips.

These Lüderitzbucht constructed vats pulled by mules unfortunately also resulted in the conditions of the drinking water not always being favorable as a result of contamination.

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia

Namibia: Top Ten attractions - Ultimate Bucket List

Top 10 attractions - Namibia Ultimate Bucket List

"Ultimate Bucket List" - featuring inspiring destinations, attractions, and experiences that showcase the incredible beauty, diversity, and spirit of our beloved nation. Discover the wonders of Namibia and make unforgettable memories as you embark on these once-in-a-lifetime adventures!

1. Sossusvlei: The iconic red dunes and otherworldly Dead Vlei, a must-see destination in the heart of the Namib Desert.

2. Etosha National Park: A premier wildlife destination, home to various species of wildlife.

3. Fish River Canyon: The second-largest canyon in the world and a geological marvel.

4. Skeleton Coast: A hauntingly beautiful stretch of coastline, with shipwrecks, desert-adapted wildlife, and unique landscapes.

5. Swakopmund: A charming coastal city with unique architecture and a variety of adventure activities.

6. Namib-Naukluft Park: Home to diverse landscapes, including the famous dunes of Sossusvlei and the vast plains of the Naukluft Mountains.

7. Twyfelfontein: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient rock engravings offering a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants.

8. Zambezi Region: A lush, water-rich region with diverse wildlife, unique cultures, and unparalleled natural beauty.

9. Spitzkoppe: A striking granite peak rising from the desert, perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

10. Walvis Bay: A coastal city offering activities like whale watching, seal kayaking, and exploring its vast lagoon, home to flamingos and other bird species.

Namibia Welcomes You!

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia

Namibia Independence Bucket List - Top attractions

Namibia Independence Bucket List

"Independence Bucket List" - featuring 33 awe-inspiring destinations, attractions, and experiences that showcase the incredible beauty, diversity, and spirit of our beloved nation. Discover the wonders of Namibia and make unforgettable memories as you embark on these once-in-a-lifetime adventures!

1. Sossusvlei: The iconic red dunes and otherworldly Dead Vlei, a must-see destination in the heart of the Namib Desert.

2. Etosha National Park: A premier wildlife destination, home to various species of wildlife.

3. Fish River Canyon: The second-largest canyon in the world and a geological marvel.

4. Skeleton Coast: A hauntingly beautiful stretch of coastline, with shipwrecks, desert-adapted wildlife, and unique landscapes.

5. Swakopmund: A charming coastal city with unique architecture and a variety of adventure activities.

6. Namib-Naukluft Park: Home to diverse landscapes, including the famous dunes of Sossusvlei and the vast plains of the Naukluft Mountains.

7. Twyfelfontein: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient rock engravings offering a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants.

8. Zambezi Region: A lush, water-rich region with diverse wildlife, unique cultures, and unparalleled natural beauty.

9. Spitzkoppe: A striking granite peak rising from the desert, perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

10. Walvis Bay: A coastal city offering activities like whale watching, seal kayaking, and exploring its vast lagoon, home to flamingos and other bird species.

11. Kolmanskop: An eerie ghost town that once thrived as a diamond mining community, now a popular destination for photographers.

12. Damaraland: Home to desert-adapted elephants, ancient rock art, and the Petrified Forest.

13. Bwabwata National Park: A conservation success story, this park is home to abundant wildlife, including elephants, African wild dogs, and various antelope species.

14. Windhoek: The capital city of Namibia, offering a mix of modern amenities and historical attractions.

15. Waterberg Plateau Park: A striking plateau with unique red sandstone cliffs and diverse flora and fauna.

16. Ai-Ais Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs of Ai-Ais, located within the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.

17. Lüderitz: A coastal town with unique architecture and a gateway to the nearby Kolmanskop ghost town.

18. Namib Sand Sea: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast expanse of ever-shifting sand dunes is a testament to the power of nature.

19. Brandberg Mountain: Namibia's tallest mountain, home to the famous "White Lady" rock painting and diverse wildlife.

20. Daan Viljoen Game Reserve: A small game reserve near Windhoek, perfect for wildlife viewing, hiking, and picnicking.

21. Popa Falls: A series of cascades on the Okavango River, surrounded by lush vegetation and abundant birdlife.

22. Cape Cross Seal Reserve: Home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals in the world.

23. Mudumu National Park: A remote park in the Zambezi Region, offering diverse habitats and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.

24. Khaudum National Park: An off-the-beaten-track destination, perfect for intrepid travelers seeking a true wilderness experience.

25. Otjiwarongo: A town known for its cheetah conservation efforts and the nearby Cheetah Conservation Fund.

26. Quiver Tree Forest: A unique natural attraction, featuring hundreds of quiver trees, some up to 300 years old, creating a surreal landscape.

27. Hoba Meteorite: The largest known meteorite on Earth, located near the town of Grootfontein, offering a rare chance to see a piece of outer space.

28. Epupa Falls: A series of stunning waterfalls along the Kunene River, set against the backdrop of the arid Kaokoland landscape.

29. Erindi Private Game Reserve: A sustainable ecotourism destination, offering excellent wildlife viewing and conservation programs.

30. Dorob National Park: This coastal park stretches from Walvis Bay to the Ugab River and includes diverse landscapes, such as dunes, gravel plains, and lagoons.

31. Kuiseb Canyon: A dramatic geological feature carved by the Kuiseb River, providing a striking contrast between the dunes of the Namib Desert and the canyon's rugged terrain.

32. Zambezi Arts Centre: Showcasing traditional crafts from the Zambezi Region, supporting local artisans and preserving cultural heritage.

33. Tsumeb Cultural Village: A unique attraction that celebrates Namibia's diverse cultural heritage, offering visitors an insight into the country's various ethnic groups and their traditions.

Namibia Welcomes You!

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia

Namibia: Explore Sandwich Harbour Where The Atlantic Ocean Meets Namib Desert

Explore Namibia’s Sandwich Harbour, A Place Where The Atlantic Ocean Meets The Sand Dunes

This dramatic meeting of land and sea creates a landscape both harsh and captivating.

YouTube video:

On Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, lies Sandwich Harbour, a sight that stuns even the most seasoned traveller. Here, colossal sand dunes, some reaching heights of 100 metres, plunge dramatically towards the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. This dramatic meeting of land and sea creates a landscape both harsh and captivating, a photographer’s paradise and a haven for adventure.

YouTube video:

The origins of the name “Sandwich Harbour” are shrouded in a touch of mystery. Some believe it stems from an 18th-century English whaling ship named the “Sandwich.” Others suggest it’s a corruption of the German “sandfische,” meaning “sand fish.” Regardless, the name aptly captures the essence of this location – a place where the relentless dunes seem to devour everything in their path, including the occasional unfortunate vessel.

YouTube video:

Historically, Sandwich Harbour served as a modest commercial port, with whaling and small-scale fishing forming the lifeblood of the area. Today, however, the harbour is blissfully devoid of human settlement. Its transformation into a protected enclave began in 1995 when it was declared a Ramsar Site, recognising its international importance as a wetland ecosystem.

YouTube video:

The true stars of Sandwich Harbour are the towering dunes and the lagoon that nestles against them. The dunes, sculpted by relentless winds, shift and change constantly, creating a sense of ever-evolving drama. Visitors can explore these surreal landscapes on guided 4×4 tours, feeling the adrenaline rush as the vehicles conquer the challenging terrain.  The reward? Breathtaking vistas of the sunbaked dunes cascade down to meet the turquoise waters.

Those seeking a quieter experience can opt for a scenic stroll along the shoreline, marvelling at the interplay of light and shadow on the dunes. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that thrives in the lagoon. Sandwich Harbour is a haven for an array of wading birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and sanderlings. Their calls add another layer of enchantment to this extraordinary place.

A visit to Sandwich Harbour is not just a scenic experience; it’s a journey into a Namibia less touched by time. It’s a place where the power of nature reigns supreme, leaving visitors with a profound sense of awe and a memory that will linger long after they depart.

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia

Namibia: Eight Essential Tips For Planning A Safari Of A Life Time

Eight Essential Tips For Planning A Safari Excursion In Namibia

Namibia is a land of surreal beauty. It’s a destination that beckons intrepid travelers from around the world. With diverse landscapes, from the red dunes of the Namib Desert to the rugged Skeleton Coast, this southwestern African country is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Among the many incredible experiences that Namibia offers, a desert safari through its otherworldly landscapes is an absolute must.

Here are a few essential tips and insights on embarking on an unforgettable desert safari in Namibia.

Choosing the Right Time

The first step to planning a desert safari in Namibia is choosing the right time to visit. The country’s desert regions can be extremely hot during the summer (December to February), with temperatures often exceeding 38°C. It’s advisable to plan your trip during the cooler and more pleasant months of April to October. This period is also the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around waterholes, making it easier to spot them.

Selecting Your Base

Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, is the most common starting point for a desert safari. From here, you can rent a 4×4 vehicle, hire a local guide, and stock up on supplies for your adventure. Depending on your itinerary, you may fly directly to other major cities or towns, such as Walvis Bay or Swakopmund, to explore different desert regions.

Dune Exploration in Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei, part of the Namib Desert, is renowned for its mesmerizing red dunes. These towering sand formations, some of the tallest in the world, create a surreal landscape you won’t find anywhere else. The best time to experience the dunes at their most vibrant is sunrise and sunset when the colors shift from orange to deep red.

A visit to the iconic Dune 45 is a must. You can either hike to the summit or opt for a thrilling sunrise balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the dunes. For an added layer of adventure, consider a guided 4×4 excursion to Deadvlei, a white clay pan surrounded by massive dunes. Here, ancient dead trees rise from the cracked ground, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene ideal for photography.

Exploring the Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast, aptly named for its treacherous waters and shipwrecks, offers a different desert experience. This desolate and remote area is home to some of the world’s most rugged and unforgiving landscapes. To explore this region, you can choose from various guided tours that provide an up-close look at the eerie shipwrecks, seal colonies, and windswept landscapes.

Wildlife Encounters in Etosha National Park

A desert safari in Namibia would only be complete with a visit to Etosha National Park. This vast wildlife sanctuary is home to various animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, zebras, and more. The Etosha Pan, a massive salt flat, dominates the park’s landscape and is an ideal location for game viewing, especially during the dry season when animals congregate around the waterholes.

For an immersive safari experience, consider staying in one of the park’s lodges or campsites. These accommodations allow you to spot wildlife from your doorstep, creating unforgettable memories of Namibia’s natural wonders.

Respect Local Cultures and Wildlife

Namibia is home to a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. When interacting with local communities, respect their customs, seek permission before taking photos, and be a responsible traveler. Additionally, it’s essential to respect the wildlife and natural environment. Avoid littering, stick to established paths, and never approach or feed wild animals.

Plan Your Accommodations

While camping under the stars in the desert is an exhilarating experience, there are also a range of accommodations to suit various preferences. You can find campsites, lodges, and luxury resorts across Namibia’s desert regions, offering diverse options for travelers.

Go with a Guide

While self-driving through Namibia’s deserts can be an incredible adventure, especially for experienced travelers, first-timers may benefit from hiring a local guide or joining a group tour. Knowledgeable guides can provide valuable insights into the landscape, wildlife, and culture, making your desert safari all the more enriching.

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia

Namibia: 21 facts you never knew about our country in southern Africa

21 facts you never knew about Namibia:

1. Namibia is home to the Namib Desert, one of the oldest deserts in the world, estimated to be between 55 million and 80 million years old.

2. The country gained independence from South Africa on March 21, 1990, making it one of the last African countries to became independent.

3. Namibia is one of the least densely populated countries in the world, with a population of about 2.5 million people spread over a vast area.

4. The Fish River Canyon, located in the south of Namibia, is the second-largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon.

5. Namibia is the first country in the world to include the protection of the environment and wildlife conservation into its constitution.

6. The capital and largest city of Namibia is Windhoek, situated in the country's central highlands.

7. The Skeleton Coast, stretching from the Swakopmund to the Angolan border, is named for the whale and seal bones that once littered the shore, as well as the shipwrecks caused by the treacherous offshore rocks and fog.

8. The Himba, an indigenous group of semi-nomadic herders, are known for their unique culture and the red ochre and fat mixture (Otjize) that they apply to their skin and hair.

9. Namibia is one of only two countries in the world (the other being Mongolia) that has desert-adapted elephants, which have evolved behaviors to survive in the arid environment.

10. The country has a high level of biodiversity and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the largest free-roaming population of black rhinos.

11. Namibia's Etosha National Park is one of Africa's major wildlife sanctuaries, famous for its salt pan so large it can be seen from space.

12. The Quiver Tree Forest near Keetmanshoop consists of about 250 specimens of Aloe dichotoma, a type of aloe that is endemic to the southern African region.

13. German is widely spoken in Namibia due to its past as a German colony (German South West Africa) from 1884 until the end of World War I.

14. The Twyfelfontein area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, contains one of the largest concentrations of rock engravings in Africa, with some of the carvings dating back to 6,000 years.

15. The Tropic of Capricorn crosses through Namibia, making it one of the countries situated on this imaginary line that marks the southern boundary of the tropics.

16. Namibia was the first African country to export beef to the United States, meeting the strict quality standards required for the American market.

17. The Namibian dollar (NAD) is pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand (ZAR), and both currencies are legal tender in Namibia.

18. Walvis Bay, located on the coast, is one of the few deep-water harbors on the African continent and serves as a vital point for maritime trade.

19. The Brandberg Mountain, Namibia's highest peak, contains the famous "White Lady" rock painting, believed to be around 2,000 years old.

20. The Spitzkoppe, sometimes referred to as the "Matterhorn of Namibia," is a group of bald granite peaks or inselbergs located in the Namib Desert.

21. The Caprivi Strip, a narrow extension of land in the northeast of Namibia, provides vital access to the Zambezi River and several of Africa's national parks across neighboring countries.

www.traveltonamibia.com
YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV

Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio1 portfolio2
Aerial photo/video service/inquiries: info@traveltonamibia.com

Telegram: ExploringNamibia