Mad Max movie puts Namibia on the hot list

Namibia may be one of the least populated places on the planet, but it’s about to be thrust into the limelight: film director George Miller wanted a post-apocalyptic Hollywood set for his upcoming Mad Max movie and the Namib Desert, a vast swathe of land along the Atlantic coast, fitted the bill perfectly.

Mad Max: Fury World is the third film in the series, the first movie hitting the big screen way back in 1979. Tom Hardy will double up with Charlize Theron in the lead roles, the latest version making its way to UK cinemas on the 15th of May.

The oldest desert in the world (said to be around 50-80 million years old) is one huge adventure playground for overland travellers and it’s the sense of remoteness and its larger than life landscapes which draw a continual flow of budget travellers to these arid climes.

This year, the African country will be even more of a favourite with thrill seekers, as the Namibian dollar (which is pegged to the South African rand) is taking a tumble against the pound. For us Brits that means more sand for your Spondulix (hard earned cash), so if the blockbuster inspires you, it could well be time to indulge in some set-jetting this summer.

Packed full of action and adrenaline we’ve compiled a list of must do pursuits in the desert - and as overland options they won’t burn a whole in your pocket.

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Sunrise dune climb: This one is not for the faint hearted. You’ll be making the climb at dawn and trudging your way through deep sands at a slower pace than you might originally think. Keep your eyes on the tracks in front of you and don’t look back until you reach the top as it’s easy to lose your balance. The views, need we say more, are particularly inviting, the ethereal glow of the sun washing over the dunes as morning breaks.

Bouldering: Spitzkoppe is otherwise known as the Matterhorn of Africa, this group of bald granite peaks stretching up into the skies. The highest outcrop reaches around 5,853 feet and it’s the perfect place to take your hiking to the next level. Enjoy a spot of energetic bouldering and while you’re there view a few ancient art exhibits courtesy of the San Bushmen.

Sky diving: Here’s another one to get your heart racing. Known as sky-dive country, Swakopmund is also one of the most undiscovered dropzones in the world. There’s nothing quite like tandem diving from 10,000 feet above a coastal desert to max out your selfie status.

Sand boarding: If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground in Swakopmund why not surf the dunes? Recommended for anyone who’s keen on snow boarding, adventurers have been known to reach speeds of up to 80 Kms/ph. Don’t worry if you’re new to the sport, as there’s instruction for the uninitiated.

Camping overland expeditions (for those aged 18-39 years) covering the Namib Desert start from £717pp (no single supplement) with Acacia Africa. The price includes transport, camping accommodation, most meals and services of a tour leader/driver. Excludes return flight. Year round departures every fortnight. Contact 020 7706 4700 email info@acacia-africa.com or visit the website at www.acacia-africa.com

Mad Max movie puts Namibia on the hot list

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