Explore Namibia in Style: Luxury by air

Namibia is a land you never imagined could exist. This incredible Southwest African nation combines the spectacular, the endless and the surreal. Wonder in awe at the world’s second biggest canyon, discover ancient mountains surrounded by an infinite expanse of golden plains, marvel at the vastness of the planet’s most beautifully- coloured dunes and experience the unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities at the nation’s thriving national parks.

With so many spectacular sights to explore its little wonder that Namibia is commonly regarded as one of the best safari destinations in Africa, attracting families, solo travellers, and groups; all of whom visit to satisfy their huge appetite for adventure.

Owing to the rise in luxury lodges that are scattered across the county’s most frequented regions, Namibia has also grown to become one of the most popular luxury safari destinations in Africa. Each year scores of loved-up newly weds travel to this idyllic nation on honeymoon, whilst other couples’ touchdown here to celebrate a special occasion such as an anniversary.

If you’re considering a once-in-a-lifetime luxury safari or honeymoon trip to Namibia, then this article is for you. In this guide we’ll take you through the most grand, romantic and luxurious ways to explore the country by air.

Hot Air Balloon

Combine romance, luxury and adventure by embarking on a magical sunrise hot air balloon ride over the spectacular dunes and mountains of the world-famous Sossusvlei.

This region, nestled in the planet’s oldest desert (the Namib) is home to a breath-taking mixture of rocks, sand dunes, moonlike landscapes and towering mountains. When the early morning light kisses the desert wilderness the colours, textures and shadows spring to life, making for a truly mesmerizing experience.

Hot air balloon rides can be organised as part of a luxury safari itinerary and can be combined with a stay at one of the Namib’s most exclusive and opulent lodges, such as Little Kulala. Your spell-binding hot air balloon experience will usually start a couple of hours before sunrise, and you’ll be transported to the meeting point close to the Sesriem gate.

From there it’s up, up and away as you mount the balloon and sail silently across the orange dune sea of the Namib below.

After you land, and to cap a memorable experience, you will be taken to a hidden retreat in the desert where you can enjoy an exquisite breakfast or lunch, served with sparking wine or champagne, for an extra touch of splendour.

Helicopter

Another incredible way to discover Namibia’s majestic landscapes is by taking a luxury chopper ride. Board the helicopter, accompanied by an experienced and knowledgeable pilot, and from your spectacular vantage point you’ll be taken on an unforgettable journey as you navigate some of Namibia’s most renowned landmarks.

Passengers can board helicopter tours from Swakopmund where you’ll be lifted across the iconic Dune 7, the highest sand dune in the world. On this chopper ride you’ll also be able to enjoy impressive views along the coast past Long Beach and over Swakopmund River Mouth before you land.

Another popular helicopter route sees passengers journeyed along the Skeleton Coast, an area famous for its eerie shipwrecks and harsh environments. From there you’ll fly over the enormous dunes of the Sossusvlei before your helicopter tracks the Kunene River up to the Northern part of the country, where you’ll fly past the extraordinary Epupa Falls.

During this ride you’ll have plenty of landing stops where you’ll be able to undertake activities such as engaging with the semi-nomadic Himba tribe and there’ll even be the opportunity to go on a mountainous hike. To compliment your helicopter trip of a lifetime you’ll also be able to indulge in some of the finest food and drink Namibia has to offer.

For photography enthusiasts, tailored helicopters rides can also be arranged. These photography flights, which usually focus on the Namib desert, will enable you to capture some incredible snaps.

Fly-In Safari

One of the best and most luxurious ways to appreciate Namibia’s magical views from every angle is to embark on a fly-in safari.

Unlike a traditional self-drive or private-guided safari, fly-in safaris will transport you via light aircraft between the country’s most popular destinations, including the world-renowned dunes of Sossusvlei, the game-rich Etosha National Park and the haunting Skeleton Coast.

The ideal treat to commemorate a special occasion such as an anniversary, during your extravagant Namibia fly-in safari trip you’ll be given the opportunity to stay at several premier luxury safari lodges and camps, including the amazing Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, which guarantees guests a lavish stay complete with impeccable service and first-class cuisine.

As well as relaxing an unwinding at some of Namibia’s most exclusive lodges, you’ll be given the opportunity to experience a mixture of incredible activities.

Enjoy a game drive in Etosha National Park and keep your eyes peeled for the rare Black-faced impala, oryx, cheetahs, giraffes and more.

When you land at the Skeleton coast go for walks and sundowners on the beach or even try quad biking or sand boarding across the dunes. Adventure seekers can also experience a 4×4 trip to the Clay Castles, the Hoanib River Delta and the Mowe Bay seal colony, plus visits to the Suiderkus and Karimona shipwrecks.