Namibia is a desert nation over three times the size of the UK but with just two million inhabitants. It’s a favourite choice for safari-goers who love wilderness, adventure and the austere, sun-scorched beauty of arid landscapes. Key attractions of holidays in Namibia include the colossal orange sand dunes of Sossusvlei, the shipwreck-strewn Skeleton Coast and the 100-mile long Fish River Canyon, which is as impressive as the Grand Canyon but has no one around. Namibia was colonised by Germany in the 1890s and ports such as Swakopmund and Luderitz still have a bizarre, turn-of-the-century feel. Today the country has a high standard of tourism - its guides are committed and wildlife viewing in the outstanding Etosha National Park is refreshingly uncrowded and natural. To see big game, take a holiday to Namibia during the dry season from July to October.

Africa-lovers looking for somewhere a bit different

Touring safaris in small groups

Star-gazers - the night skies here are incredible

Long drives - Namibia’s attractions are spread far and wide. Flying between them is costly but does offer superb views, and there is also an upmarket train, the Desert Express.

Visitors from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Ireland and Canada do not need a visa. Pack light if you are travelling by small aircraft - the luggage allowance can be as little as 12kg.

Namibia has a sunny climate but cloud and fog can reduce the sunshine on the coast. December is the hottest month with daily temperatures of up to 30°C/86°F. The main rainy period is January to April with 'little rains' from October to December. Take warm clothes because at night the desert gets very cold.

Flights to Namibia from the UK take approx fifteen hours.

Driving is on the left. Most roads are well maintained and there is little traffic. Avoid driving at night outside towns when wildlife and stray livestock are serious threats. A UK photo driving licence is acceptable but you must always have it with you when you drive.