If this is country not on your bucket list, then you need to think again. Namibia simply has everything the intrepid traveller could want.

And, though there is a smattering of five-star hotels and resorts, as well as some pretty colonial era buildings to see in the capital, Windhoek; let’s face it, if you’re going to Namibia, it’s all about the nature, which is stunning!

Here you will find the starriest of starry skies as you study the remains of long forgotten creatures at the Mesosaurus Fossil Camp and drive among the almost other-worldly Quiver trees. Or, come a little further forward in history with a visit to the south and Twyfelfontein to discover rock paintings dating back to 26,000BC. Find endless horizons as you climb the highest sand dunes in the world which, in parts, crash down into the sea.

And then there’s the wildlife. Namibia takes conservation seriously and this attitude probably explains why there are more than 200 species of mammals found in the country, including desert dwelling elephants and rhino. In fact, it’s the only country in the world where large numbers of rare and endangered wildlife are translocated from national parks to open communal land where the local people are committed to their protection and preservation.

Of the many lodges to explore, we recommend Desert Rhino Camp in Damaraland – one of the very few places where you can track highly endangered black rhino ON FOOT! The guides work alongside the Save the Rhino Trust. And there’s no Wi-Fi. We can’t wait to go.

Check out Amy Schoeman’s 1984 book The Skeleton Coast. The author looks at the coastal desert park of northern Namibia, its plants and animal life, geology and minerals, the delicate harsh wilderness, climate, people and history. There have been several re-prints but if you can find a second-hand copy of the original, many say it’s the best version.