This is not an ultimate guide. No single article could contain the vastness of Namibia’s camping experience. Instead, it’s a glimpse into three places we explored: Uis, Usakos, and Swakopmund. Each offered its own unique blend of natural beauty, quiet reflection, and adventure.

Uis

Uis is small but it's wrapped up in a lot of legend. Once a busy mining town, it now hosts just 3,800 residents at the foot of Namibia’s highest peak, Brandberg Mountain.

The Brandberg isn’t just any mountain; it’s a gallery of ancient art. Its most famous work, the White Lady painting, has survived over 2,000 years, a testament to the region’s spiritual significance for the San people. Believed to be a site for healing rituals, it’s a place full of history and mythology.

We based ourselves at Brandberg Rest Camp, a comfortable spot in the heart of Uis. It offered campsites with electricity, hot showers, and braai facilities. After a day in the heat, the swimming pool was a real treat.

For those seeking proximity to Brandberg itself, White Lady Lodge is just outside Uis. Its well-maintained campsites and clean ablution blocks make it an ideal base for hikers. We spent a day at the lodge restaurant. If you’re sitting down for a meal, you’ll also get access to the pool. And you’ll need it - this part of the world gets hot. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot desert elephants..

Highlights:

• Starry Nights: In Uis, the night sky is a canvas of stars

• Rock Art: Guided tours to the "White Lady" painting connect you with ancient traditions and stories

Usakos

Usakos is the kind of place that invites you to pause. Surrounded by dramatic mountain vistas, this town is perfect for a quiet break.

We spent a weekend at the Uitkyk Guest Farm, and on our first night, we had the entire campsite to ourselves. That night an ostrich wandered into our site, pecking at our tent. The stillness of the night, interrupted only by the soft rustle of the ostrich's movements, made the experience surreal, and definitely one of our lasting memories.

An hour from Usakos lies Spitzkoppe, Namibia’s iconic granite peaks. Climbers, photographers, and dreamers alike are drawn to its surreal beauty. Back in Usakos, the pace slows. Here, camping isn’t about ticking off attractions but about embracing the stillness.

Highlights:

• Spitzkoppe Mountains: A short drive leads to these magnificent formations

• Quiet Comfort: Usakos is for those who value solitude and a break from the crowds

Swakopmund

Swakopmund is where adventure meets the sea. It offers everything from skydiving to quad biking. Yet it’s also a haven for campers, with options that range from family-friendly to thrill-seeker’s delight.

The beach is perfect for swimming in the summer, and you can even take out a kayak—with or without a guide. My daughter and I chose to paddle out with a guide and were rewarded with an unforgettable moment: a dolphin gliding through the water nearby.

One of our favourite camping spots is Goanikontes Oasis, a short drive from Swakopmund. In the middle of the dry desert landscape, this camp site is exactly what it sounds like: a retreat, featuring shaded campsites and a natural swimming pool. There’s a whole list of activities for kids, including arts and crafts, a Scorpion hunt at night, and an animal farm.

Highlights:

• Adventure Sports: Whether it’s sandboarding or quad biking, Swakopmund delivers adrenaline in heaps

• Ocean Views: Some campsites offer immediate access to the beach

• Café Culture: After a day outdoors, the town’s eateries serve up a range of meals

Final Reflections

Camping in Namibia isn’t just a way to see the country—it’s a way to feel it. Each destination compels you to connect with nature in a way we don’t do often enough in modern life. Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or a bit of both, Namibia’s campsites offer experiences that linger long after the journey ends.

I didn’t understand this feeling until it happened to me. I’d heard travelers talking about falling so deeply for a place that they felt tethered to it, even long after leaving. For me, that place was Buenos Aires.

Argentina’s capital is that mix of distinct culture, stunning architecture, and…good vibes. While there are countless reasons to visit, here are the ones that stood out to me.

The People Are Incredibly Friendly

Argentinians make you feel like you belong.

Despite the challenges Argentina faces—such as rising inflation and poverty affecting many residents—people remain remarkably kind and welcoming.

It’s not politeness of someone trying to get you to do something for them or the superficial courtesies we often exchange in passing. Strangers are happy to chat with you in public spaces. As soon as they hear broken Spanish, they’ll ask about your story with genuine curiosity.

During my time in Buenos Aires, I was continually struck by how locals extended warmth and friendliness. Other parents regularly initiated conversation while our kids played in the park. When I couldn’t follow the rapid Spanish, many would switch to English. Another time, a fellow tenant in our building heard us speaking English and immediately gave us her unit number. She insisted that we call on her if ever needed anything.

When it was time for my baby to take her passport photo, the entire office—and even a few clients waiting in line—jumped in to help. The result was multiple people calling out “¡Hola, bebé!” to get her to look at the camera. And it worked.

Months after I arrived in Buenos Aires, I reflected on the assumptions I’d carried with me about traveling to Argentina. What would it be like to navigate life in a predominantly white country? Would I face prejudice because of my South African passport?

My brain had constructed so many scenarios of bias and discrimination. It's difficult not to expect the worst after growing up in South Africa, with its legacy of exclusion and racism. None came to pass. My family and I experienced only generosity and openness.

Even the other expats we met were genuine and eager to connect. We saw a desire to build relationships from other South Africans and expats. Buenos Aires, it seems, has a way of fostering connection. Not just among locals but also among the foreigners drawn to its unique energy.

Even now, a year after leaving Buenos Aires, my husband and I often find ourselves having late-night conversations about the incredible people who welcomed us so warmly.

The Casually Beautiful Architecture

Buenos Aires is the kind of place that seduces you without any effort. You won’t even know it’s happening.

Walk along most avenues, and you’ll be taken in by an elegance that doesn’t beg for your attention. It simply exists. You, the viewer, are compelled to notice.

What this looks like are plazas framed by facades that reflect the city’s European influence. Multiple buildings have ornate balconies and wrought-iron railings are fixed to buildings. Stroll down a street and you’ll find massive Jacaranda trees casting their shade.

San Telmo, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, feels like it’s pulsing. Here, restored buildings and architecture all the way from the 1800s attract tourists. Artists, street performers, and vendors line cobblestone streets for the famous weekly street fair.

Living in Buenos Aires is like being surrounded by a museum without walls. Everywhere you go, there’s a reminder of the city’s layered history and its refusal to stand still.

Pregnant Women and Babies Are Royalty

If you’re traveling with kids—or even thinking of having them—Argentina might just be your utopia. Pregnant women and babies are treated like royalty. Everyone from waiters to strangers on the street eager to help.

On more than one occasion, I (pregnant) felt blood rushing to my face as I was ordered to skip the line at the store, bureau of exchange, or pharmacy. I remember one instance where a fellow customer seemed annoyed at the employee for failing to call me to front earlier.

Strangers would often pause to coo at our baby as we passed by. Even motorists showed remarkable patience. It wasn’t uncommon to see a car carefully avoiding footballs rolling into the street from children’s games.

It’s Family-Friendly After Dark

One of the first things I noticed about Buenos Aires is how late everything starts. In South Africa, by nightfall, most families are home. But in Buenos Aires, the rhythm of life is entirely different. The night is perennially young, and evenings are just the beginning of the action. Dinner at 10 p.m. is completely normal. I was always surprised to find public spaces thrumming with activity long after the sun had set.

I remember sitting in a park one evening. All around us children played and friends shared hot drinks under the streetlights. It was lively and vibrant in a way that felt unfamiliar and even a little disorienting at first.

For someone from Cape Town, where parks are a no-go for families at night, this was a cultural shift that left a lasting impression

Everything Feels Bigger in Buenos Aires

There’s a sense of scale in Buenos Aires that mirrors its personality: bold and unapologetic. And an aliveness that’s difficult to explain and impossible to forget.

It’s why many foreigners, just like us, are pulled towards the place. People searching for something more, whether it's new business opportunities, a better life for their families, or simply the chance to chase something in a city where so much feels possible.

But more than anything, Buenos Aires made me feel free. Free to explore, free to try new things, and free to fall for a place I’ll always miss.

If you haven’t been, go. And if you’ve been, you know exactly what I mean.

Windhoek has everything you want in a holiday destination: good food, friendly people, and multiple attractions.  

Our week-long holiday wasn’t the first time we visited but previous trips had been too short to get out and truly experience the city. Namibia’s capital had been calling to me. Almost everyone who visits will tell you they can’t get enough of it. Now I know why. We spent our week in Windhoek taking in the culture, eating at some of the well-known restaurants, and enjoying the adventure activities on offer.

Family-friendly restaurants

We arrive in Windhoek on a Sunday afternoon and I’m ready to explore. One way to do this is to get out and eat. What new culinary adventures await, I wonder! 

But. A reality check grounds me forcefully.

I remember I have three children under the age of 10 who are desperate to run, play, and in no way desire any of the constriction a more adult establishment would demand. And that’s why we ended up at Spur. If you know anything about Spur, you know all are not created equal. Food, service, and the quality of the play area vary greatly. (The only constant is the level of cultural appropriation.) Some are deluxe while others are lacking in food and fun. Soon I discovered the Spurs of Windhoek fell squarely in the former category. The food was more than passable. My children enjoyed the play area and the restaurant was thrumming constantly.

Spur’s family-friendly branding is a huge part of its enduring appeal but there are other eateries that more than accommodate families with young children. Movenpick Hotel offers a restaurant with a playpark and for a small fee, you can use the pool. Our visit was in the heart of winter so the pool was freezing. 

The Village Garden is that magical mix of healthy, tasty food and a kid-friendly setup. Located in the Village, the restaurant is set in a pretty garden with water features and trees. Our kids enjoyed the play area and trampoline.

Also based at the Village, Seoul Food deserves a special mention. Their Korean food is one of our family’s favourite meals. I honestly don’t have enough adjectives off-hand to describe how great the food is over here. Just know it’s good. It’s not explicitly marketed as a family restaurant and you won’t find play facilities, but there’s outside seating and my children didn’t feel too restricted.  

Other noteworthy highlights:

• Joe’s Beerhouse doesn’t have a playground but children can walk around outside. Book in advance. 

• Grove Mall also has a few restaurants, like Rocco Mamas, with a central outside play area

• Panarottis turned out to be a huge favourite. I’m not a fan of the pizza, but but my kids loved going there (they made new friends in the play area every single time) and they loved the food

High-energy adventures

Children are an easy lot to please. Give them an activity that involves non-stop movement and they’re set.

Our adventure began at Urban Friction, a rock climbing facility inside Maerua Mall. Fortunately, our visit just happened to coincide with the school holidays, so the kids joined a week-long holiday program focused on rock climbing. It turned out to be the perfect way for them to challenge themselves in a fun and safe environment. The activity was well-supervised, and the instructors were incredibly patient, especially with our youngest. I dropped my children there for about three or four hours and they had the afternoon to test their strength and coordination on the outdoor walls.

Just a short walk from Urban Friction is Planet Aero, a trampoline park also located inside the same mall. This place was an instant hit with our children. They bounced and flipped through several - and I sure do mean SEVERAL - visits: I became a part of the furniture of the jump park at some point. Whether it was for an hour or a full afternoon, the trampoline park provided a fantastic outlet for their energy. The children of Windhoek are incredibly social  - my children made a bunch of friends here too. You’ll be able to buy snacks and drinks at the park but I packed some sandwiches and fruit.

To wrap up the week, we added a little more adrenaline to the mix by visiting Windhoek’s go-karting track. Easy to navigate, it offered just the right amount of thrill for our family (Given the mother’s limited go-karting skills.) We arrived expecting a restaurant and larger play area but that project appears to be under construction. You’ll get drinks but will need to make an alternative plan for food. (We ended up going to…Planet Aero afterwards and grabbed some food at the mall.)

Historical and cultural landmarks

As with many Southern African countries - my home country (South Africa) included - history is often complex and always painful. 

Learning about South Africa’s past doesn’t engender feelings of pride or patriotism. As South Africans, this journey down memory lane is a confusing, but necessary, trip that leaves you with many questions about humanity. Namibia’s history is just as turbulent as South Africa’s but the trauma is different in that they were first oppressed by German colonisers and then later by South Africa’s apartheid government. The Independence Memorial Museum presents this history through a series of pictures and exhibits. 

You’ll have no trouble picking out of the five-storey building when you first see it. Designed by a North Korean company, the Independence Museum sits on a raised green slope. Each floor has a different theme and display. Given the source material, the visit is not an easy one. My children asked many questions. I tried to answer as best I could but some acts of cruelty can never be explained. You really get a sense of Namibia’s painful past and the work that’s gone into birthing a new national identity. If you’re visiting Windhoek, solo or with your family, a visit to the Independence Museum is a must. 

While I enjoy art, I won’t claim to deeply analyse each piece. Still I make an effort to visit galleries with my children. There’s this feeling of a connection to the artist; reminding me we’re all part of the universal human experience. The National Art Gallery did not disappoint. The display of human creative expression was such a treat; bold colors, textures, and materials made the artwork accessible and engaging. What made the experience particularly special was how the children related to the stories behind the art. Many of the pieces reflect Namibia’s rich history and culture. 

We didn’t manage to get to all the cultural sites during our short visit, but here’s a list of a few more:

• Windhoek City Museum

• National Museum of Namibia

• Transnamib Museum

• Bushman Art Gallery

Game drives

When you mention a holiday in Africa, most tourists already have a picture in mind and a lot of the time that image involves an abundance of wildlife. 

In Windhoek, you won’t have to venture far from the city  to find a game drive. Ours took place at the Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and we went with Wild Wind Safaris. They picked us up from our hotel and had a pack of snacks and drinks waiting for us in the vehicle. The kids spotted zebras, antelope, and even a few giraffes.

Disclaimer: we did the game trip during a prior visit to Windhoek.

Tips for visiting Windhoek:

• Check for holiday programmes if you’re visiting during June or July

• Be mindful of the weather. I love Windhoek’s weather and while winter days aren’t cold, most pools will be extra chilly this time of the year. Something to note if your kids love swimming like mine do

• Book ahead for more popular restaurants like Joe’s Beerhouse

Danger, death, and legend are wrapped up all around the falls. Iguazu Falls is a world wonder and World Heritage Site on the borders of Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. Composed of more than 200 waterfalls, it’s a thing of drama. 

As the story goes, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt said “Poor Niagara” when she spotted the falls, of course referring to that other famous waterfall, Niagara Falls. Indeed, Iguazu Falls is higher and wider than Niagara Falls. 

Ask anyone in Argentina what you should do while you’re in the country and Iguazu comes up. Millions of visitors travel to Puerto Iguazu, the Argentine city where the falls are located, each year to see the falls. I started to see why as soon as I arrived. 

Imagine a road encircled with trees so dense and thick and green that the other side isn’t even visible. That’s what it’s like driving from the airport to our hotel. We travel in silence for a while processing it all. Being in a quiet car with two children under the age of 9 isn’t common. 

The visitor’s center is the landing base for our day at the falls. We stock up on drinks and rent a stroller. There’s a short walk to the train, our mode of transport to the starting point for exploring the falls. 

Normally, the train would go all the way to Devil’s Throat but that route is closed, so we disembark at one of the earlier stops and set off on a path lined with trees.

You’ll hear Iguazu Falls before you see it. What starts as white noise quickly builds in volume and intensity. Our first vantage point is on the other side of a wooden bridge and now the anticipation starts showing up in my body, a slightly increased heart rate as we move closer. The water below the bridge is moving quickly; the strong current surprises me and I already picture what it’s all leading to. 

Warning signs tell us carrying children on your shoulders is forbidden. An intrusive image inserts itself into my mind. I've seen all the pictures online and the idea of the waterfalls terrifies and attracts me; I feel like, at any moment, I could topple off the edge and into the water below, permanently irrecoverable.

That’s all put on pause as soon as the spectacle of the falls comes into view. The first waterfall we see is maybe a 50-meter curtain of water rushing into a pool below. If this was all I came to see, I’d still be in awe. I would still have seen a piece of nature unlike I’d ever seen before but Iguazu Falls was only getting started.

As we move further along our trail, walls of water are so thick you can’t see a single thing behind them. Masses of water create huge sprays of mist as they drop off completely vertical cliffs into the river below. Strong currents move the water rapidly, ceaselessly cutting around rocks and trees. 

The falls lie in the Atlantic rainforest: trees, birds, and butterflies are abundant. You’re walking through one of South America’s most popular landmarks but you could easily be in the middle of a dense jungle.

There were lots of people like us on the trails: tourists with phones and cameras at the ready. A fellow sightseer and I take photos of each other, both striking poses and waving peace signs, framing ourselves around the scene in the background. Further away a group of women stood near the railing trying to get the perfect selfie. I can’t imagine getting that close. If you’re feeling particularly brave, you can take a boat tour right out to the falls. I was not. I saw a boat bobbing in the middle of the river below. 

Iguazu Falls happens to be terrifying and soothing at the same time. Layered in so much mystique, resident serpent gods and doomed lovers are some of its lore. Legend has it a jealous deity created the falls when the woman he loved tried to flee with her lover. In a display of anger the god split the earth open thus forming the falls. And if this tale is true, the serpent god still lurks deep under the waters today.

Observing the falls up close, you do feel a sense of wonder. There’s a sense that something powerful purposefully put it all in place. We viewed the falls from the bottom end of the park right before closing time, and I immediately knew the moment would be saved in place, preserved as a lasting memory. 

I scoured YouTube and Instagram and took in tree-lined streets and colonial architecture. Based on my inputs, I formed my own mental pictures and held them close until I arrived late one Saturday evening, touching down at Ezeiza International Airport just after 10pm.

Back then, I didn’t expect to spend a substantial portion of my six months in the city in its natural, open spaces. (I also didn’t expect to experience such a strong sense of belonging and fall so deeply in love with the place; that’s a long story for a different post. But this is Buenos Aires - it surprises and seduces.) 

While it’s a big city, Buenos Aires is packed with parks, gardens, and playgrounds. Large swaths of green provide pause and escape all over CABA (Autonomous City of Buenos Aires), and you’ll honestly find some sort of natural environment in every barrio (neighborhood).

Las Heras Park

It’s Saturday afternoon in June and the heat in Buenos Aires isn’t unpleasant, just unanticipated. I came ready for winter, thick jackets and grey skies but that was…not happening.

So we left our 1st-floor apartment in Palermo, walked into the street in search of something to do. Buenos Aires can never be accused of starting too early but it was after midday and the city was getting busy. 

And this is what led me to Las Heras Park, one of the largest parks in the city. Here Porteños (Buenos Aires residents) and visitors congregate to sip mate and spread picnic blankets across the lawns. At the one end, football fields are busy - teams take one another on in friendly competition. Sunbathers relax on loungers, reading or enjoying the heat.

Children play in the playground, while others choose ball games on the grass. There’s a large skating rink where amateurs and professionals perform for onlookers, and if you’re in the mood you can even get a workout on the gym equipment.

While Las Heras is one of the larger, more well-known parks, there were so many in the city. Some come with play equipment, carousels, and synthetic turf for ball games. Others are simpler, offering wide open spaces for ball games and play  - many parks land somewhere in between.

Aside from the typical activities, some will also offer other activities, like painting or bubble play.

The big surprise for me was this: parks are full till quite late. Coming from Cape Town, it’s highly unusual to see any child (or adult, really) in a park once the sun sets. In Buenos Aires it’s the norm to find families in parks until it’s pitch dark, though there’s lots of lighting. .

One of the special things about Argentina is its friendly people. And you’ll likely experience this typical Argentine warmth at one of the many parks in Buenos Aires. My son often started playing football with a group of kids. We didn’t often meet English speaking children (he ended up making one English-speaking friend who took on the role of introducing him to the other children) but he usually played with a whole range of kids.

Buenos Aires Ecopark

Back in 2016, the 140-year old Buenos Aires Zoo shut its doors and it all seemed kind of sinister. 

Think: multiple animal deaths and reports of staff negligence. 

Yet, years later and the site’s been transformed into a safe house for animals at risk and a center for conservation education. Buenos Aires Ecopark is a surprise in Palermo, one the city’s largest neighborhoods. It’s surprisingly insulated for being so central. You honestly feel removed from the hum of cars and buses  - and general congestion around the area  - once you’re inside the park. 

The park is laid out neatly with green spaces and ponds. As mentioned, there’s a massive emphasis on conversation and education. Posters and interactive displays tell young visitors about different animals and their habitats. 

The Ecopark is also a wildlife rescue center, receiving 400 animals each year, who have been injured, orphaned, or trafficked. In addition to free roaming animals, some wildlife live in enclosures too.

We spent an afternoon visiting the park and had the opportunity to view animals, like giraffes and flamingos.

At the other end, there’s also a huge playground and carousel.  You can buy food at food trucks in the park and just outside the entrance. 

Costanera Sur Nature reserve 

Like any good nature reserve, the Costanera Sur ecological reserve has woodlands, ponds, and hundreds of bird species.

Secret paths run off from the main route, leading you to views of lakes and secluded picnic spots. Birds bob on the surface of the water and chirp in the generous mass of trees overhead. 

One thing you don’t expect is for this piece of nature to be in the middle of the city. The noise of one of Latin America’s busiest cities has been shut out as you meander through the reserve. If you don’t catch sight of the tops of skyscrapers in Puerto Madero, you’ll almost feel like you’ve left the city behind for a faraway nature spot. 

People come here to walk, run, cycle and have picnics on the grass. We spent about an hour wandering through the reserve but you could easily spend a half-day here.  

I didn’t know this before I went but you can book an English tour here visitasguiadas_recs@buenosaires.gob.ar. 

Japanese Garden 

In 1967, Crown Prince Akihito and Princess Michiko of Japan officially inaugurated the Japanese Garden. Designed by the local Japanese community and later given to the Municipality of Buenos Aires, the garden is a gift from the Japanese Government; a thank you to Argentina for being so welcoming of Japanese immigrants. 

More than a half century later, the garden is immaculate. Depending on the time of year you visit, you’ll see cherry blossoms, azaleas, violet water lilies. Bridges crisscross the garden and fish swim in an array of ponds. You won’t be short on photo opportunities. 

The garden seems perpetually busy - there are usually long lines so best to go early or during the week if you can manage it. 

I’ve only covered the places I where spent most of my time in while living in Buenos Aires. There are other places as well like the Botanical Gardens. 

For us, leaving Cape Town to see more of the world was the plan. Deciding on the next destination wasn’t as straightforward. We ranked countries on things like visa options, safety, cost of living and imagined lives in Mexico and Portugal. (Note: None of those would come to pass but what did happen was absolutely life-changing.)

Finally, we settled on moving to Namibia  - where my husband grew up. Two years later, we’d lived across three countries: South Africa, Namibia, and Argentina. Here’s some of the lessons we learned.

An addendum to what you’ll read here: I am honest in sharing our experiences but I won’t be going in-depth into any negative emotions. Know that there were challenges but I’ll only share about a difficult situation in detail when it’s solely my individual experience to share.

Children’s social lives become a priority  

By the time he blew out on the candles on his ninth birthday cake in Buenos Aires, my son had spent celebrated his birthday in a different country each year for previous two years.‍

I wanted my children to experience  greater cultural awareness, and we achieved that - but at what cost? A steep one if you pick up a random research paper into the impact of relocation on children’s social lives.  Studies exploring the effects of moving on children’s friendships like this one present a bleak picture of the social lives of kids who move around regularly. 

But none of these were current or relevant to our situation. These studies focused on families who moved because they had relocated for military, diplomatic, or corporate positions. Digital nomad families have a greater say in where they go. Often older kids are deeply involved in trip planning.

For example, the Young family, a digital nomad family from the United States, adapted their travel schedule as their children got older:

‍“Our kids are at that age now where they're developing more lasting friendships and wanting to do things like hanging out with those friends all the time. Being on the road three or four months at a time makes that really hard. So, we've transitioned to shorter chunks of travel, to give more freedom and flexibility to the kids.”

What made the biggest difference for us was becoming ruthlessly proactive in setting up opportunities to socialise. That meant hanging out in parks, joining parent Facebook groups, and saying yes to every birthday party invite. But then, existing friendships also need to be nurtured. Setting up calls and playdates whenever you’re back in town helps maintain these bonds.

At the time of writing, my older children are 9 years and 6 years old. They have made friends across countries. Both are still open to traveling, but this season of life will change. My husband and I predict we’ll need to stay in one place as the eldest gets into his teen years. 

Experiment with different types of learning

Parental concern over a child’s academics during a big move is nothing new. Most of us take steps to ensure that our children are keeping up with the material and seek support if they’re struggling. These concerns are amplified when schooling on the road. 

A common thread in older research is to link any kind relocation to a decline in academic performance. When a student body is “highly mobile” schools “perform less well”, per a policy brief from the MacArthur Foundation. What’s missing from the studies, though, is a focus on alternative schooling. And in an era that’s seeing more and more families choosing to homeschool or unschool, this is a huge blind spot. 

Give yourself space for trial and error. If you’re open to trying different schooling options, you could find that works better. I had the ambitious plan of homeschooling my then seven-year old. This did not go down well. An online programme saw him thrive academically - but lacked the social value of spending time with peers.

By researching alternative schooling options, I ended up rethinking the education system. After reading through a few unschooling books and performing my own research, I found I had less fear about my children falling behind. Suddenly, I was open to alternative forms of learning.

Now, I’m far more concerned about helping them take control of their learning and ensuring they enjoy the process. Both kids attend Montessori and it’s a system that’s available in most countries with part-time options. 

Learn a new language together 

I’ve seen language immersion produce varying levels of success depending on how it’s done. Exhibit A: child attends a foreign-language school and doesn’t pick up much of the language. (Also starts to dislike going to school). Exhibit B: the child thrives quickly, picking up a lot of the language. A big difference was that in the second case, the entire family was making an effort to learn the new language alongside the child.

If you’re going to a country where the children will need to be proficient in an additional language, try a bilingual school where a decent percentage of the student body already speak your first language. It’s tempting to want to surround your child with the language. BUT. Starting a new school is enough on its own without a language barrier.

Investing in 1:1 lessons pays off quickly. At one stage, I had in-person lessons set at a bi-weekly cadence. Finally, and this is huge, language learning content for children is not scarce. Today, if there’s a language they want to learn, their favourite cartoon is probably freely available in that language.

Again, making this a family affair is fun - and more effective. As a result of a our travels, we’ve all committed to learning Spanish and take time to work on our skills together.

Make connections before you arrive 

Planning your first trip as a digital nomad family can be overwhelming. You have to consider flights, packing lists, visas, childcare, health insurance, and more. It’s a lot. 

Fortunately for us, information and contacts are widely available online. Consider joining different Facebook Groups to learn more about family activities and schooling in each area. Most times, you can perform a group search to find answers to frequently asked questions. People want to help. Making friends  - even just one person -  before you get there makes for a softer landing. I had recommendations for schools, nannies, and extra-murals long before we arrived.

And the rise of the location-independent lifestyle means there are more services available to assist you throughout the process. For example, Nomadlist is an online community for remote workers. A Nomadlist membership gives you access to country rankings, remote job listings, local meet-ups, and more. There are even companies like Boundless Life that provide packages including accommodation, co-working facilities, and childcare.

‍Establish a base

Traveling with most of your clothes is more of a hassle than an adventure. You begin to feel unmoored. 

Because we were traveling with almost everything we owned, we took ages to move through airports. It became an ordeal to check with multiple bags - and multiple kids - in tow. Future trips will be done from a base. That is, a place where we live and are settled. 

We’re no longer entertaining the idea of moving to a new destination every six months. We want to give the children an opportunity to form deep friendships and it’s hard to do that if you start planning to leave just as you arrive. 

Ignore everything I’ve just said 

Everything written here is biased. What was presented as fact is actually just a unique human experience coloured by my personal factors. 

Context is incredibly important and often lacking in pieces like these. What you value and your comfort threshold all contribute to how you’d perceive living this kind of life. Your personality - your child’s personality - will change the dynamics.

If you’re going to embark on this experiment, you should begin by deciding on your values and goals. What would be required to make the journey worth your while. Agree on those values and goals and then start planning.

A lot of content floating around the internet loves to play up its proximity to Europe, calling the place a pretty German town in the middle of Africa. That history is fascinating but there’s a lot more going on.

An iconic coastal town in Namibia, Africa, Swakopmund is one of those rare places in the world where towering, ancient sand dunes smash into the shores of the Atlantic ocean.  On offer here is a combination of culture and natural beauty. While it’s known for its endless desert landscape, the place also has a fascinating history and rich heritage and we’ll get into more of that below.

There’s no shortage of things to do over a short holiday in Swakopmund. Sandboarding, kayaking, dolphin cruises, and desert quad biking are just some of the reasons to visit. All you have to do is pick.

I’ve tried or researched most of the attractions. Since I have young children, I'll emphasise family-friendly activities. Planning ahead is key to making your short family trip fun and memorable, and this guide will help you map an ideal holiday in Swakopmund with your family. 

From desert activities to restaurants, and museums, this post includes highlights and travel ideas to ensure your day in Swakopmund is one you’ll never forget.

To help you put together a family trip worth your visit, ‍I’ve presented multiple options. Feel free to customize based on your interests, length of stay, and budget.

Meet desert creatures on the Living Dunes Tour 

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The Living Dunes Experience takes you deep into the desert to see Palmato geckos, sidewinder snakes, spiders, and chameleons. You’ll learn about the nature of these animals and how they’ve evolved to survive in the Namib desert.

Aside from seeing desert creatures up close, you’ll get a 4X4 drive up and down the rolling dunes. Bonus: it's a 100% kid-friendly experience. My children enjoyed playing in the dunes and asking questions about the history of the desert. 

‍Take note: this is a three-hour tour, and you’d need to be ready around 8:30 am. You’ll be back in town after 12 pm so this excursion will take up your entire morning.

‍Book the Living Dunes Tour here.

Take a stroll along the historic Swakopmund Jetty

‍The Swakopmund Jetty is a key part of the country’s history. Built during German colonial rule in 1904, it’s become a popular attraction.

The first thing that strikes you about walking along the jetty is the view. Flanked by endless masses of ocean on either side, the wooden jetty is a great place to take in the crisp sea breeze. And your kids will love watching the waves roll and crash underneath their feet.

While you’re there, check out the 1877 Doughnut Bar. Here, choose from a range of sweet treats made from a 150-year-old recipe. Remember to check the eatery’s Facebook page to confirm operating hours.

Explore the Swakopmund Museum

‍Founded in 1951, the Swakopmund Museum is the largest privately run museum in Namibia. 

‍Hosting a vast collection of indigenous plants, animals, and artifacts, the museum will engage children of all ages. 

‍Clothes, cars, and exhibitions, provide a window into life in Namibia over the years -  right from the moment the German settlers arrived to the South African occupation and beyond. 

You’ll also learn about the country’s different ethnic groups and their traditions. Namibia’s German presence is most keenly felt in Swakopmund: you’ll see it in the distinct architecture and hear the language all around you.

‍There’s a lot to take in here, so you should set aside an hour or two for your visit.

Relax at the Swakopmund Mole 

‍The Swakopmund Mole is a historic walkway along the beach, first built in the 1900s. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the Mole is lined with local eateries and souvenir shops.

‍Depending on the weather, you might opt for a family beach day. Rent a kayak and enjoy the day at the beachside. The sun will soon start beating down so remember to bring an umbrella and loads of sunscreen.

‍Alternatively, enjoy breakfast at one of the restaurants while the children play in the park overlooking the ocean. 

Take a quad bike ride through the desert

‍There’s something freeing about speeding along the slopes of the Namib desert.  Quad biking is one of Swakopmund’s most popular tourist attractions and it’s easy to see why.

Riding through the Namib desert is a must even if you’re spending just one day in Swakopmund. Located just outside of town, these sand dunes are a sight to behold. ‍

Your kids will love this adventure. Smaller children ride along with their parents at no extra cost. During a break, perched on a giant mountain of yellow sand, you’ll have incredible photo opportunities. Take some time to observe the sprawling desert from the taller dune peaks.

‍Shorter trips take around 30 minutes. We’ve tried the 45-minute and 1-hour quad bike tour with Desert Explorers and would recommend both for families.

‍Book a 1-hour quad bike tour here.

Go sandboarding 

‍Sandboarding sees you racing down the dunes,  sand spraying all around you to reach speeds of 80km/h.

‍Like quad biking, sandboarding down the desert slopes is something you should experience during your stay in Swakopmund.

‍Even smaller kids can join. My four-year-old accompanied my teenage nephew, laying on his back. 

‍Book a 1-hour lie-down sandboarding and 1 -hour quad bike ride here.

Stop by the National Marine Aquarium 

‍The National Marine Aquarium in Swakopmund is home to an array of sea life.

‍This small but interesting aquarium has a large tank upstairs and an underwater walkway where you’ll get a closer view of the rays and sharks.

‍Feeding happens daily at the aquarium at 3 pm. On Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays divers go into the tanks to feed the fish.

Visit the Living Desert Snake Park 

‍If you want to see snakes, lizards, and other reptiles during your trip, the Living Desert Snake Park deserves a visit.

‍While it's a self-guided tour, the guide will frequently engage with you and your children. My children - then aged 8 and 4  - loved this trip.

Be prepared to roam around here for at least an hour. 

See rare gems at the Kristal Museum

‍The Kristall Galerie has few reasons to land itself on your itinerary.

Entering the Galerie takes you through the crystal cave, a replica of a Namibian tourmaline mine.

On the other side, you’ll find the world's largest quartz crystal cluster - dated at over 500 million years old. 

Be sure to visit the gem garden, a scratch pit filled with gemstones. Collect as many as you can squeeze into a small bag and take home as a souvenir. As you might've guessed, this is another firm favourite for the kids.

Catch a beach sunset 

Swakopmund Mole offers a couple of great vantage points for viewing the African sunset. You’ll feel as if you’re standing at the edge of the world, taking in an unrestricted view of the Atlantic Ocean.

‍The kids will have fun clambering up the rocks, as you watch the sun dip into the sea.

Enjoy supper at the Butcher and Brewer

‍Located along the Mole, the Butcher and Brewer serve a wide selection of meals and craft beers. Select from the finest Namibian meat and other African dishes.

‍Of course, there are tons of great restaurants in Swakopmund. I singled out this one because it offers a small play area and splendid sea views.

Spend a memorable day in Swakopmund

‍As you can see, there’s lots to do in Swakopmund. Honestly, you’ll need more than one day to experience everything Swakopmund has to offer. A week would give you enough time to see everything  - and do nothing. Those who love slow living will thrive here.

But if time is of the essence and you only have 24 hours to spend, I’d recommend trying this sample itinerary: 

• Swakopmund Mole: pop by the Swakopmund Museum and have breakfast at the Museum Cafe while the kids play in the park.

• Sandboarding/quad bike combo: head into the desert to ride and sandboard over the dunes.

• Aquarium: be back in town to catch the feeding at 3 pm.

• Swakopmund Jetty: when you leave the Aquarium, take a short walk to the jetty and grab a donut. If you have the time (and energy), head into the CBD to soak up the architecture and browse the craft shops.

• The Butcher and Brewer: end your day with a meal overlooking the ocean.

Swakopmund travel tips:

• You can exchange money easily in town and most places accept cards. Carry cash for purchasing souvenirs from street vendors.

• There are no e-hailing services. You’ll find taxis in town, and they cost N$13 depending on where you’re going. Honestly, it’s far easier to rent a car or contract a shuttle especially with kids.

• Personally, I find Swakopmund safe. But after travelling to a couple of different places, I realise safety is subjective. I feel completely safe walking around town in the evening but your tolerance level may be different depending on your context. Practice common sense. Be aware of your surroundings. Watch your belongings.

Whether it’s lazing on the beach, feasting on local cuisine,  or speeding down the dunes, Swakopmund has something for everyone. The next step is to plan your trip, pack your bags, and make lasting memories.

*I may earn a commission on the links included in this post.

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