South Africa: Corsair & Patty shipwrecks

SAHRA Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage

Kolmanskop wreck near Swakopmund, Namibia

August 17:

“This day in our shipwreck history”

1833: Corsair, this wooden-hulled sailing schooner disappeared whilst en route from Cape Town in the Western Cape to Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape. It was last seen on this day and is presumed to have foundered somewhere along the route.

1991: Patty, this luxury yacht foundered within minutes after a fire broke out in the engine compartment just outside of Hout Bay in the Western Cape.

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South Africa: Speedy & P X de Wet shipwrecks

SAHRA Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage

Kolmanskop shipwreck near Swakopmund, Namibia

July 13:

“This day in our shipwreck and aeronautical wreck history”

1842: Speedy, this wooden-hulled schooner wrecked after its cables parted in a north-westerly gale near Woodstock Beach in Table Bay in the Western Cape. The Arion and the Galatea also ran aground during the gale, but they were refloated. The remains of the Speedy now lie beneath reclaimed land.

1972: P X de Wet, this motor-powered vessel ran aground near the mouth of the Boesmans River at Franskraal in the Western Cape. Very little is known about this vessel, and it is possible that it was refloated.

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Namibia: Profiling Luderitz - harbour town in southern Africa

Profiling Luderitz, Namibia

Lüderitz is a town located in the ǁKaras Region of southern Namibia. It is situated on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its German colonial architecture, fishing industry, and proximity to the Namib Desert.

Here are some key points about Lüderitz:

1. History: The town was founded in 1883 when Heinrich Vogelsang purchased Angra Pequena and some land from the local Nama chief. It was named after Adolf Lüderitz, a German merchant and colonialist. Lüderitz became an important trading port and the center of diamond mining in the early 20th century.

2. Architecture: Lüderitz is known for its well-preserved German colonial architecture, with colorful buildings lining its streets. The most famous building is the Goerke Haus, a grand mansion built in 1910 that now houses a museum.

3. Economy: The economy of Lüderitz is largely based on fishing, diamond mining and tourism. The town is a major fishing port, and the surrounding waters are rich in marine life. Tourism is also an important industry, with visitors attracted to the town's historical sites and the nearby Namib Desert.

4. Attractions: Lüderitz offers several attractions for visitors, including Shark Island, a popular camping and picnic spot with views of the ocean; the ghost town of Kolmanskop, a former diamond mining town abandoned in the 1950s; and the nearby Bogenfels rock arch, a natural landmark on the coast.

5. Climate: Lüderitz has a cool desert climate, with mild temperatures throughout the year due to the influence of the cold Benguela Current. Fog is common in the mornings, providing moisture to the region's plant and animal life.

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Namibia: Luderitz annual crayfish festival is on

Namibia's Luderitz annual crayfish festival boosts economic growth

The annual crayfish festival held in the southern coastal town of Luderitz provides an investment opportunity and boosts tourism, which in turn contributes significantly to the country's economic growth.

YouTube video - Luderitz:

The festival has a hugely positive impact on the local Luderitz community and it has ignited an entrepreneurial spirit in the town.

The inclusion of small and medium enterprises and financial services in the festival demonstrates its impact on social and economic progress. The festival also takes place against the backdrop of oil discoveries and emerging green industries that will drive economic development nationwide.

Fishing is an important economic activity for Luderitz, which is poised to become the new epicenter of the oil, gas, and green hydrogen industries.

The festival, which started in 2008, has become a popular platform to showcase Luderitz's rich cultural heritage and traditions. It offers a variety of activities, including seafood exhibitions, traditional cuisine, entertainment, fashion, and corporate events.

This year's festival runs from April 29 to May 5 and themed "Riding the waves toward a sustainable future".

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Namibia: 33 awe-inspiring destinations

Namibia: 33 awe-inspiring destinations

Namibia celebrate its Independence Day on 21 March. In honor of this momentous occasion, we are thrilled to present you with a special gift - "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 Deadvlei, 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 - Your Next Destination!

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Namibia: Traces of good times in the Namib Desert in The Northern Diamond Fields

Traces of good times in the Namib Desert in The Northern Diamond Fields in Namibia

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Namibia: The Northern Diamond Fields

The Northern Diamond Fields

When in October 1908 prohibitive restrictions were placed on the pegging of claims south of the 26° latitude in the southern diamond fields (Kolmanskuppe, Bogenfels, Elizabeth Bay) many a prospector left the area for the less popular northern diamond fields (Spencer Bay, Saddle Hill, Oyster Cliffs, Meob Bay, Conception Bay), in the hope of some good finds.

In 1909 after about 5,000 claims had been occupied, it was found that these fields were much poorer than those in the south as well as having a lot more obstacles standing in the way of their development, including the vast distances and transportation difficulties. Nevertheless, there was no shortage of optimistic prospectors as they came from all walks of life wanting to try their luck at diamond mining and surely many dreamed of overnight riches.

Today when entering this remote area, it is not difficult to imagine the hardship man, beast and machine had to endure. Harsh desert conditions, with the cold, fog and the ever-blowing cold southerly winds.  The area is difficult to describe as there is an abundance and vastness of nothingness and yet so much beauty.

Hats off to those early pioneers and migrant workers who entered into this way of life making a tremendous contribution to the economic success of the diamond industry.

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Namibia: Ghost Town Where Diamond Mining Once Thrived

The Spooky Ghost Town Where Diamond Mining Once Thrived

Kolmanskop, a once-thriving diamond mining town nestled in the Namib Desert, is now a ghost town visited only by tourists who regard it as a haunted town due to its history and spooky appearance.

Its history started in 1908, when a railway worker named Zacharias Lewala stumbled upon a sparkling stone along the riverbed that turned out to be a diamond, leading to the discovery of significant diamond deposits in the area.

The discovery sparked a diamond rush, drawing fortune seekers from far and wide to establish Kolmanskop as a diamond mining center. By 1912, a town had sprung up, producing a million carats a year or 11.7 percent of the world’s total diamond production.

As diamond production grew, Namibia‘s Kolmanskop evolved from a modest settlement to a thriving town. The influx of mining companies and workers brought about rapid urbanization, industrialization, and infrastructure development.

The town was constructed primarily by German immigrant architects.

The town boasted amenities such as a hospital, school, theater, and even a tram system, which reflected its prosperous state.

The buildings, constructed primarily by German immigrant architects, featured distinct German colonial characteristics, combining elements of both German and Namibian design. This blending of styles created a remarkable aesthetic that still captivates visitors today.

The diverse population of Kolmanskop, including miners, merchants, and their families, developed a vibrant social fabric. Settlers from various backgrounds brought their customs and traditions, fostering a rich multicultural environment. Despite the harsh desert conditions, residents established recreational clubs, sports teams, and social gatherings, illuminating the unique spirit of community that permeated Kolmanskop.

Kolmanskop’s prospectors were becoming rich overnight simply picking diamonds off the desert floor, but German colonial authorities wanted greater control over the incredible riches.

According to a report in National Geographic, they cracked down, declaring a vast area of Namibia a Sperrgebiet, or restricted zone, forbidding entry to ordinary people and reserving prospecting rights for a single, Berlin-based company.

However, as diamond resources in the area were depleted, the town was gradually abandoned. The residents left behind their homes, possessions, and even some personal belongings, creating a ghostly atmosphere of a town frozen in time.

Hastening the town’s demise was the discovery in 1928 of the richest diamond-bearing deposits ever known. These were on the beach terraces 270 km south of Kolmanskop near the Orange River.

By 1956, Kolmanskop was completely abandoned. The dunes that once rolled over Lewala’s railway tracks now burst through the ghost town’s doors and porches, filling its rooms with smooth banks of sand.

In the decades following its abandonment, Kolmanskop transformed into a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors who sought to witness the remnants of a once-prosperous town swallowed by the desert.

Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts have reported various ghostly encounters and strange occurrences in Kolmanskop. These stories include hearing disembodied voices, footsteps, and the feeling of being watched. Some claim to have seen apparitions or encountered unexplained phenomena, contributing to the town’s haunted reputation.

Kolmanskop’s isolation and the eerie silence of the desert contribute to the eerie and unsettling atmosphere, making it a prime location for ghost stories and urban legends.

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The 12 best things to do and places to explore in Namibia

The 12 best things to do and places to explore in Namibia

Garth Owen-Smith once said of the Kaokoveld, one of the wildest places in Namibia: ‘The region is stark and hostile, but in the early morning and late afternoon light, when the basalt rocks turn to the color of rust, and the distant mountains to soft shades of purple and blue, it can also be breathtakingly beautiful.’

It’s places and descriptions like that which have long lured South Africans to our northern neighbour. We go for the surreal landscapes, roadside cafes, unusual wildlife, and the sense of exploration that comes with a road trip into that vast and dazzling wilderness of Namibia. If you feel its pull, consider all of these stops well worth your time.

1. Explore the deserted town of Kolmanskop

This ghost town just outside of Luderitz is as eerie as it gets. The town sprung up in the desert when diamonds were found littering the dunes, but when bigger diamonds were discovered elsewhere in Namibia, the town’s inhabitants moved on. The last people left around 60 years ago and since then, the desert has taken over the buildings. You can go on a tour of the bowling alley, dairy, butchery, town hall, and some of the houses, learning about how the 300 Germans lived in the inhospitable environment.

2. Hike the Fish River Canyon

As one of the largest canyons in the world, the Fish River Canyon makes for one of the most unique hiking trails in Africa. Its surreal landscape will make even the most blasé of travellers fall in love with this place. The canyon is a whopping 160km long and almost 30km wide, giving you some of the most dramatic scenery in the world to enjoy. There are a few trails to hike and vary depending on how tough you’d like your hike to be.

3. Spend a morning or three at Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park covers more than 20, 000 sq-km and is one of the most unique reserves in Africa. Everything revolves around the watering holes bringing all animals close together to drink. At dusk, you’ll find all kinds of species of animals making their way to the waterhole for a drink. The wildlife activity goes on all night with elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and even lions if you are lucky.

4. Just drive

The D826 and C27 are considered the most scenic roads in the whole country. Think long, straight, red, dusty roads surrounded by mountains, silvery swathes of grassy plains punctuated with terracotta dunes. And silence. You’ll only pass a car occasionally.

5. Hike the Tok Tokkie Trail

This three-day desert experience will see you walk for the day over sand dunes and in the vast landscape of the NamibRand Nature Reserve. Camps include a semi-permanent kitchen set up on a hill with ‘bedrooms’ spread out from it, which consist of two stretchers with bedrolls and a paraffin lamp. Think three-course meals, fantastic guides, hot water bottles, stargazing and waking up to a sunrise from bed.

6. Hot air balloon over the Namib Desert

Taking off at dawn, you’ll watch the sunrise over the Namib-Naukluft National Park, fly over dunes that look otherworldly, gaze down on gemsbok and drift over the endless spans of orange dunes contrasting with a large white salt pan island. A bird’s eye view of the massive desert and both its rocky and sandy character puts Sossusvlei into perspective.

7. Climb a dune at Sossusvlei

Dune 45 is 150 m of burning orange sand dune in Sossusvlei. Hiking to the top won’t be the easiest morning you have in Namibia but the sunrise from the top is worth it. This is what many visitors to Namibia come to see – the iconic red dunes of the Namib. The nearby Dead Vlei – a big cracked mud plain dotted with dead trees – is just as captivating. The trees are thought to be around 1,000 years old. They’re not petrified, but rather haven’t decomposed because the air is so dry here. 

8. Relax in Swakopmund

Namibia is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, but this seaside city of 44,000 people is a must-visit while in the country. The town has a relaxed atmosphere with lots of local eateries and specialty shops. It’s an excellent place to base yourself for a few days with lots of top attractions nearby.

9. Wonder at the rock art at Twyfelfontein

ǀUi-ǁAis is the official name for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Twyfelfontein and is the largest concentration of rock carvings (2,500) in all of Africa – and totally worth a visit when you’re in Namibia. With prehistoric hunter-gatherer rock engravings that date back more than 6000 years and petrified forests at its doorstep, Twyfelfontein makes an obvious choice for travellers wanting to explore one of Namibia’s most enigmatic locations. Just make sure to pack lots of water and an umbrella and hats. There’s little to no shade around there and it can get very hot around midday.

10. Marvel at the Cape Cross seals

It’s not just lions and elephants that you can see in Namibia – the coast is famous for the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, a place where you can come and see 100s of Cape Fur Seals. The Benguela current is home to a big population of fish so you can rest assured that the seals aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

11. Climb at Spitzkoppe

Known locally as the Matterhorn of the south, Spitzkoppe is a 120 million-year-old chunk of granite that springs out of the desert floor. It’s a 1,784-metre tall rock formation surrounded by nothing but miles and miles of flat desert. If you make a visit, staying the night is a must and choose between a chalet at Spitzkoppe Lodge or the campsite. 

12. Stargaze in the desert

The dry cool desert air at night is perfect for gazing up into the night sky. Without moisture in the air, the night sky is crystal clear and stars are very visible. If you want to stargaze, try plan your time during a new moon as the less light in the sky will make the stars shine even brighter.

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