NAMIBIA – A COUNTRY OF CONTRASTS
The Eastern Region
220 Kilometres East of Windhoek lies Gobabis, the capital of
the East. As you drive on the well maintained
tarmac road, the vegetation resembles that of savannah with bush outcrops also present. The tall Camelthorn trees stand majestically above the
wavering yellow Bushman Grass, and so it has been for years and years before.
The East is commercial farm land, but let that not frighten you away. The hospitality of all Namibians is tremendous, and the
visitor will be made welcome everywhere he goes.
The town of Gobabis does not offer much in the sense of activities or adventure, but the
surrounding area has much to offer. Drive to
Harnas and see the world famous lions and other species that are protected here. This is one of Namibia’s biggest sanctuaries that care for
animals that need to be rehabilitated back into the wild.
Visit some of the other lodges in the area, and you will be surprised with all the life around
you. Game drives are a popular way to see first
hand what kind of game is found in this part of Namibia. Kudu, Oryx and Warthog to
name but a few.
Travel a bit further down to Aranos and you will slowly enter the realm of the Kalahari Desert,
one of 2 deserts to be found in Namibia. Slowly
the red dunes will appear, with grass lining the ridges and the sides of the dune. To witness a setting sun as it disappears behind a red
dune must be one of life’s highlights.
Travels further east from Gobabis and you enter the communal area of Aminus and Epikuro, home of
the proud Herero nation. Pastoralists by nature
this big proud men care for their cattle like they care for their own family. Be warned though, do not drive or walk through any fire in
any village, it could be the “holy fire” of that specific village. This phenomenon is applicable only the Herero people of
Namibia.
Directly the
opposite of the South of Namibia, the East offers something totally different, yet still enthralling in its
own manner.
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