All across Africa I was aware others had been there before me. This became increasingly apparent as I reached southern Africa – Angola, Namibia and South Africa. Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias reached Tombua, in the far south of modern day Angola in 1487. He had made his way along the … Continue reading
It’s an easy hour’s drive into South Africa through hills that look more like piles of boulders, the brown hues only broken by a strip of green along the Orange River (that acts as the border) where raisons and mangoes are grown. From the small mission town of Steinkopf I’m … Continue reading
From Walvisbay all combis lead to Windhoek. From there, I can return to the coast, at Luderitz. I thought you might find these instructions for getting there useful: 1. Wait 7 hours for combi to fill up 2. Head south for around 500 km 3. Turn right, and continue for … Continue reading
From the Namibian border town of Ondangwa I head to the coastal town of Swakopmund. We see a snake, a dusty brown/blue/grey from the sun reflecting off its scales, and promptly run it over. A rather nice combi (minibus) takes me in an entirely uncramped fashion. Namibia is the sort … Continue reading
Life’s a beach in Benguela Benguela’s coastal end of town is really rather delightful. Lovely tree- and palm-lined streets connecting clean planted squares that offer seating in the shade. However, there is no public transport between Benguela and the coastal town of Namibe, the hub being Lubango. So I must … Continue reading
When the taxi pulls into Monte Christo combi (minibus) depot all hell breaks loose. Its surrounded by touts: some get into the back, some open up the boot for my bag, others thrust themselves through the front windows. They are desperate for my custom to Oshataki, home of an Angolan … Continue reading
Windhoek, Nambia; a beautiful city I shouldn’t be in Once I stop thinking about the mess I’m in I sleep well. I must fly to Windhoek, the first friendly visa-free destination I can reach, and do so via flights to Nairobi and Johannesburg. A total travelling time of 9hr 50min … Continue reading