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!

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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!

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Namibia: Top ten facts about Sandwich Harbour

Top ten facts about Sandwich Harbour in Namibia

On a scale of serene, breathtaking, awe-inspiring to heart-racing, adrenaline pumping, and rip-roaring, it has it all! A guided excursion to Sandwich Harbour promises to be a thrilling experience that will also bring moments of peace and silence as you admire this natural wonder on Namibia’s coastline.

Here are 10 fun facts and interesting information to know about Sandwich Harbour:

It is a historic harbour

Diego Cão named the area Port d’Ilheo (point of the island) in 1486 when he and other Portuguese sailors sailed into the natural harbour. The importance of the harbour at that time remains a mystery, but later in the 19th century it became a commercial fishing and trading port. It was especially attractive to sailors for its fresh water, and supported various industries such as whaling, fish processing, beef canning and guano collecting. In 1884 it gained more importance as a supply harbour for the German South-West Africa. However, it was soon replaced by the harbour in Swakopmund.

Today Sandwich Harbour is of touristic interest and with good reason!

One of the main attractions of the emerald-blue lagoon is ...

... the incredible abundance of birdlife and the mind-boggling landscape of contrasting sea and dunes – the latter being a love affair that is often cited in travel stories. The lagoon is home to some 200,000 birds, such as terns, flamingos, cormorants and pelicans. It is a marine sanctuary and RAMSAR site supporting more than 50,000 birds in the summer and 20,000 in the winter. These wetlands are of international importance. The harbour proves to be far more than balm for the soul – it has immeasurable value in terms of conservation.

Where does the name originate from?

We have determined the origins of “harbour” in number 1. However, the origins of “Sandwich” are unclear. Some say it comes from the German word “Sandfisch” meaning sand fish or shark, but most sources point to a ship – the HMS Sandwich – that visited the bay in the late 18th century.

Another theory, however, is that once you descend the dunes towards the ocean and the lagoon, when you reach the beach, you are sandwiched between dunes and ocean. You have the honour to become part of this ancient love affair, as you are now in the middle of their embrace. Make sure you get out of there before high tide hits! These two lovers need to be left alone. But don’t worry, your guides are perfectly aware of this and will put your safety first.

Learn more about one of Namibia’s indigenous cultures

Here you will find both ancient and recent evidence of the Topnaar people, a community descended from the ancient !Khoi group, some of Namibia’s oldest indigenous peoples. How did they survive in these hostile conditions? Your guide will provide an insight into their lives.

A source of nourishment in the desert

On your trip here, you will learn about the !nara plant – a natural desert plant that grows wherever there is underground freshwater. It played an essential role in the survival of the Topnaar. As prickly and “unwelcoming” as this plant may seem, it is extremely nutritious and has served as a source of inspiration in many cases, such as the Desert Whisper’s design.

Wildlife encounters

The Kuiseb Delta’s unique ecosystem of sand dunes and fossilised riverbeds is home to wildlife such as springbok, ostrich, jackal and brown hyena, along with smaller desert-adapted species, including gerbils, three-striped mice, shovel-snouted lizards and the elusive sidewinder snake. Sandwich Harbour itself, including the lagoon and the adjacent sand dunes, is a fantastic environment for wildlife and birds, while seals, dolphins and sometimes even whales can be spotted playing in the waves.

An adrenaline pumping experience

As one proceeds further south coming from Walvis Bay, the dunes become steeper and taller, leaving the beach as the only means of access to Sandwich Harbour. At high tide, this narrow strip of beach is submerged by the waves breaking against the dunes, making the bay inaccessible. Guides expertly navigate tides and shifting sand – a truly impressive skill. If the tide is coming in, and you have to return to Walvis Bay via the dunes, prepare for a thrilling adventure.

Sandboarding

Some tour companies throw in an extra adventure for those who just can’t get enough. Scale the face of a dune with the wind in your hair, and sand ... well, everywhere!

Another Instagrammable spot

As you head back to Walvis Bay, you will pass the pink salt lakes – one of the most Instagrammable spots.

Walvis Bay Lagoon

You will most likely stop at the Walvis Bay Lagoon before leaving for Sandwich Harbour – a lovely prelude before discovering the wonder that is Sandwich Harbour. And this is a good time to remind you to be ready for any type of weather! Pack that warm jacket, and don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.

These excursions usually take off from Swakopmund or Walvis Bay, wherever you are located. Most companies organise pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation. Various companies offer these life-changing excursions, including Desert, Dunes & Dust Tours.

Have you ever paid a visit to this magnificent natural wonder? Or is it on your list for the near future? What are you looking forward to the most?

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Namibia: The Serenade of the Seas docked at Walvis Bay harbour

The Serenade of the Seas: Docked at Walvis Bay

Today marks a momentous occasion as the magnificent Serenade of the Seas, a splendid and awe-inspiring vessel owned by the Royal Caribbean Group, graces Namibian shores.

Namibia, a country renowned for its beautiful scenery and vibrant culture, offers a treasure trove of experiences. From the towering dunes of the Namib Desert to the diverse wildlife of Etosha National Park, there's no shortage of natural beauty and adventure. As you explore Walvis Bay, you can indulge in bird-watching, admire the flamingos and pelicans, or embark on a thrilling dolphin cruise. The charming town of Swakopmund, with its unique blend of tradition inherited from German imperial architecture and African vibrancy, is just a short drive away from Walvis Bay, and it promises even more delights.

In recent times, the maritime landscape has witnessed significant shifts. The once-trusted routes through the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and the Mediterranean have increasingly become perilous due to ongoing conflicts and security threats. This instability, exacerbated by the attacks from Houthis in the Red Sea region, has compelled many vessels to seek safer and more secure passages.

The Atlantic Ocean has emerged as a beacon of safety, drawing ships of all sizes, including enormous vessels like the Serenade of the Seas, to its tranquil waters. Namibia recently celebrated the arrival of another grand vessel, marking a significant milestone in the country's maritime journey and highlighting its burgeoning status in the global shipping industry. This event is not merely a transient occurrence; it represents a strategic investment in Namibia's hospitality and tourism sectors, promising substantial economic benefits.

The influx of these majestic ships heralds a wave of foreign visitors who disembark and explore Namibia's charming coastal towns. This dynamic infusion of international travelers translates to a robust boost in foreign currency as passengers indulge in local attractions, cuisine, and cultural experiences. From Swakopmund's picturesque beaches to Walvis Bay's vibrant market stalls, the economic ripple effect of these visits extends to local businesses, artisans, and service providers, creating a thriving ecosystem that benefits the entire community.

The Serenade of the Seas' arrival in Walvis Bay is a testament to Namibia's rising importance in the global maritime arena. As the world navigates through troubled waters in other regions, Namibia stands as a beacon of opportunity and security, ready to welcome the world with open arms. To all passengers and crew, have a wonderful time exploring our stunning landscapes and experiencing the warm Namibian hospitality.

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Namibia: Historical Swakopmund - Ritterburg Mansion

Historical Swakopmund 

Theodor Ritter was a son-in-law of the Hamburg shipping magnate Adolph Woermann, and had been managing affairs at the local offices  of the Woermann Shipping Line from 1908 until 1912. Architect Höft (who also signed responsible for the design of the Haus Altona and the stately Woermann Haus with the Damara Tower) had designed the residence for Mr Ritter. Notably, it had been the first building in the country with electrical wiring and switches for lights and appliances integrated in the walls. (The Woermann group of companies operated the local coal-fired power station in town, it  had also been one of the very first electrical power stations in all of Southern Africa).

View from Woermann Haus Tower over the Ritterburg Mansion, the empty shell of the customs shed, and a deserted Mole in the distance

The mansion for Mr Theodor Ritter and his family (remember: his wife had been a daughter of the patrician Woermann dynasty) had been built onto the upper ridge of an age-old beach terrace, at the intersection of Kaiser Wilhelm - and Bismarck Straße. Further north along the same terrace, there had been the lighthouse as well as the 'Kabelmesse' (the local telegraph station). A little distance away, the Woermann Haus had been completed a few years prior.

YouTube video: Old Swakopmund:

As can be seen on the historical photograph of the 'Ritterburg', the main entrance had originally been on the southern façade of the building. This explains why the current entrance around the back has always felt like the kitchen servants' entrance - and does not make much sense, architecturally.

The southern main entrance had probably been shut off and bricked in somewhere between 1920 and 1970, when the building had served as yet another boarding school / 'Schul-Internat'.

The persistent southwesterly winds are probably to blame for this, but today there would be more elegant solutions to that.

Note how the building had once been surrounded by trees, probably the hardy Manotoka, Rooikrans / 'Port Jackson', Araucarya and Casuarina trees.

The photograph dates back to the years immediately after the 1st World War.

The customs shed in the picture explains  why the diagonal street below is still known as 'Am Zoll Straße'.

Swakopmund had originally been the main harbour town of German South-West Africa. All the harbour activities were moved to Walvis Bay during the war in 1915 already.

Swakopmund thus remains a harbour town that hasn't seen a single ship in well over a hundred years. And, against all odds, the town seems to be doing pretty well.

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Namibia: Row Between Mobile Food Kiosks And Swakopmund Municipality

Row Between Mobile Food Kiosks And Swakopmund Municipality

The Swakopmund Municipality has demarcated several sites for mobile food kiosks.

This, the municipality says, will allow them to better manage their activities and operations in a manner that improves the image of Swakopmund while addressing the needs and interests of all the residents.

According to the public relations officer for the Swakopmund Chief Executive, Archie Benjamin, despite there being 17 sites for mobile food kiosks in the Central Business District and surrounding areas, residents who are interested in opening food truck enterprises at the town continue to flood the Economic Development Services Department with applications and demands with the inquiries unequivocally showing that new locations are needed.

“The Swakopmund Town Council has also received a mass amount of complaints from residents, particularly those living near the beach, requesting the relocation of mobile food kiosks for various reasons,” he said.

Some of the complaints include a disregard of the town planning scheme by allowing mobile food kiosks to operate in the beach area without following the proper procedures.

He further said that the Municipality of Swakopmund has recognised the need to accommodate and support the mobile food kiosk business by putting measures and systems in place that lawfully support this sector thus creating an enabling environment for economic growth and the creation of employment.

The resolution was not welcomed by all sections of Swakopmund, leading business owners mobilizing community members to sign a petition, which will be imminently handed over to the town council to voice disapproval over the resolution.

“Please leave the Fork n Nice alone! Please don’t move the yellow bus. Don’t be short sighted, it is ours!” remarked one of the disgruntled residents on the Swakopmund Municipality Facebook page.

After the Swakopmund Town Council’s deliberations on 27 October 2022 and 23 February, it was resolved that mobile kiosks be allowed at certain specifically demarcated sites.

These sites include north of the aquarium as well as at the tennis court, the parking area opposite the State House, the Saturday Market area at Erf 118 (Daniel Kamho Avenue) opposite the Swakopmund Prison, Erf 626 in Tamariskia and Erf 2349 in Matutura.

Existing mobile kiosks that need to relocate in respect of the town council’s decision were given the first preference to re-apply and select their preferred sites.

The Mole and the old skateboard area will only be used for special events, while the current kiosks in these areas must be moved to the newly created area.

Furthermore, the council resolved that the mobile kiosk sites at the DRC Settlement be delayed until the complete de-congestion process has been finalised.

Council also noted that no suitable trading areas have been identified at the industrial area, Ocean View, Mile 4, the DRC informal settlement and Mondesa.

The resolution further states that the mobile food kiosk policy inclusive of all operative guidelines will be implemented in phases yet to be announced.

The Swakopmund Town Council will hold public consultations on its mobile food kiosk policy in the near future.

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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.

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South Africa: Lady Holland, Childe Harold & Otto Siedle shipwrecks

SAHRA Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage

February 13:

“This day in our shipwreck and aeronautical wreck history”

1830: Lady Holland, this wooden vessel struck a reef north-east of Dassen Island off the west coast in the Western Cape and wrecked. Its passengers and crew made it onto Dassen Island using the boats before being rescued.

1850: Childe Harold, this sailing vessel wrecked on the south-eastern point of Dassen Island off the west coast in the Western Cape just after midnight. The captain was the only casualty, who drowned trying to swim a line to shore.

1981: Otto Siedle, this tug was scuttled by the SA Navy about 100km north west of Cape Town in the Western Cape in about 2.5 km deep water.

A view of Dassen Island from the north. SAHRA database contains 24 entries for wrecking events near the island, with the earliest recorded wrecking being in 1734 and the most recent in 2002

The tug was decommissioned, stripped of all valuable material, and then donated to the SA Navy who used it for torpedo target practice for the SAS Maria van Riebeeck. The tug had served for 43 years in various roles, most commonly on the modern-day Namibian coastline where it assisted many stricken vessels.

The tug Otto Siedle (1981), date and location unknown (suspected Cape Town)

There is also a story that tells of the tug’s master playing a practical joke on the Italian liner Europa’s passengers by rigging a skeleton to make it appear as though the tug was being steered by the skeleton as it pulled up alongside the Europa in Walvis Bay in Namibia.

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Namibia: Fascinating Diamond History

Fascinating Diamond History in Namibia

The prospects for diamond mining in the area of Meob Bay started during the diamond rush of 1908 to 1914.

The coastline of Namibia is home to a number of archaeological sites. The area of Meob Bay, which is about 173 km from Walvis Bay, also forms part of the early days of the diamond mining area.

Only operators who are concession holders are allowed to travel in these restricted areas.

This area between Meob Bay and Conception Bay (104 km from Walvis Bay) area is Diamond area no. 2.

Meob Bay was used as a harbour to offload mining equipment and personnel during the diamond rush from 1908 to 1914. By 1928 various infrastructure improvements were made, a bakery was in operation by then, providing settlements with fresh bread on a weekly basis with an introduced mule express.

The only remaining hut, today at Meob Bay, served as an office and accommodation to the then transport manager of the Namaqua Diamond Company.

DIAMOND MINING

The official story of Namibia’s diamond history starts in April 1908, when young railway worker Zacharias Lewala picked up a large shiny diamond while on duty during the railway construction between Lüderitz and Kolmanskuppe. Little did he know that this ordinary act would set off a chain of events so large, it would change the course of history.

An avalanche of fortune hunters, whose eyes sparkled in awe of the world’s purest, most precious diamonds, descended upon this desert land.

This resulted in an uncontrollable diamond rush, forcing the secretary of the colonial administration, Dr. Bernhard Dernbug, to proclaim a ‘Sperrgebiet’, between 26 degrees south latitude (Gibraltar/ Northern Rocks, 75 km north of Lüderitz) and the Orange River stretching 100 km inland.

This southern area covered 26 000 km². Existing claims were honoured, but mining rights for the rest of the land were given to the Deutsche Kolonialgesellschaft für Südwestafrika to control prospecting.

Prospectors then started to turn northwards and this resulted in the discovery of diamonds at Spencer Bay in December 1908 as well as between Meob Bay and Conception Bay area.

Transporting of supplies and mining equipment was mainly from Swakopmund by ship and the cutter vessels Viking via Sandwich Harbour, Conception Bay and Meob Bay. The mining settlements of Holstatia, Charlottenfelder and Grillenberger were established during the 1920s.

The biggest of the settlements, Grillenberger, was home to a large machine workshop, store, a small field hospital with 20 beds, a slaughter house, police office and post office with a switchboard for local telephone communication.

For senior employees, a hall was erected as well as storage facilities and stables. For the contract labourers, A-frame huts were erected, which can still be seen. About 12 contract labourers were housed in these A-frame huts.

North of Grillenberger, an ox wagon can be seen with special wide iron bands that made transportation possible in the sandy areas.

Also to be seen in the area is a railway line running from Conception Water to Conception Bay. The latter was used as a harbour, and at Conception Water boreholes provided fresh water to the surrounding areas. From Conception Water, a 80 km water pipeline was constructed to supply the three mining settlements with water.

In 1914, everyone in this area was requested to stop all diamond finding operations and to proceed to Swakopmund. This order came as a result of an unexpected invasion of allied troops.

During 1920, activities recommenced in this area and only four companies operated here until De Beers purchased the concession areas in 1929. From old mining records it is clear that the average diamonds found in this area were much smaller than those found at Lüderitz.

The great depression, which led to the crash of the New York stock exchange in October 1929, negatively affected the sales of diamonds from these diamond fields.

Consequently, Namaqua Diamonds ceased operations on 28 January 1931 and went into liquidation. Most of the concessions were then bought by Consolidated Diamond Mines (CDM) of South West Africa. Since then the South West Africa administration closed these diamond fields for prospecting, and all 389 workers and European employees had to leave these fields within hours, leaving everything behind.

After the second World War a company Industrial Diamonds of South Africa (1945) did extensive prospecting in the area around Meob, but found no diamond and CDM abandoned Meob in the early 1960s.

RECOVERY METHODS

During the first weeks of the diamond rush, diamonds were picked up by hand from the surface of the desert. People crawled on the ground with jam tins to put in the diamonds.

To speed up the process, sieves were used to separate the fine sand from the larger grains, which contained the diamonds. Charlie Bannau, introduced a more sophisticated method, where he submerged the sieve with the coarser gravel in a trough filled with sea water, then rotated it. By doing this the diamonds moved to the centre of the sieve. He then placed the sieve upside down on the back of an empty beer crate from where the diamonds could be picked up. However, the problem was the use of too much water in the desert.

Shortly after, the Trommel sieves were introduced. They were hand operated and larger amounts of sediments could be sieved. Subsequent to the sieving, the diamond bearing gravel was hand or gravitated in smaller round sieves.

Today, only remnants of these activities are visible and are deteriorating at an alarming rate. These settlements give a rare insight into the harsh desert environment and the hardships endured by the indigenous people and early settlers of Namibia.

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Namibia: World's largest self-propelled floating crane calls at Walvis Bay harbour

World's largest self-propelled floating crane calls at Walvis Bay, Namibia

The largest semi-submersible crane vessel (SSCV) in the world, the SSCV Sleipnir moored at Walvis Bay last week for a two-day lay-over to undergo prescribed inspections and procedures before continuing its journey to the Grand Isle oilfield in the United States.

The US$1.5 billion SSCV Sleipnir is owned and operated by Heerema Marine Contractors. It was built by Sempcorp Marine in Singapore and commissioned in 2019. In 2022 it set a world record by lifting a 17,000-tonnes structure for TotalEnergies onto the base of one of its rigs in the North Sea.

The Panama-registered vessel docked at the Port of Walvis Bay anchorage on 11 January 2024 where it underwent essential procedures, including a quick rundown and provisionals facilitated through a launch, crew change, and bunkering via STS (Ship-to-Ship).

The SSCV Sleipnir propulsion system eliminates the need for tugs to maneuver her across the high seas.

Logistics Support Services is the vessel’s Walvis agent and following this initial call, SSCV Sleipnir is expected to make a second call at the Port of Walvis Bay later this year.

“Namport looks forward to a successful partnership with SSCV Sleipnir and reaffirms its commitment to facilitate efficient and seamless maritime operations in the region.” The authority said it remains committed to play a pivotal role in maritime trade and operations contributing to the economic growth and development of Namibia.

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