5 Must Read Books on Namibia

The Sheltering Desert by Henno Martin

In 1935 Henno Martin left Germany with his friend and colleague, Hermann Korn, for geological research in then South-West-Africa. In 1940, facing internment by the South African government, Martin and Korn decided to move into the desert and wait out the war, where they lived for two and a half years. The Sheltering Desert describes the intense physical and mental hardship they endured, the challenge to survive in the vastness of the Namib Desert, and their gradual adaptation to the Bushman lifestyle. This is a must read for anyone considering a hiking adventure in Namibia. The book can be found on Amazon, but keep an eye out for it in good second hand book stores as well.

An Arid Eden by Garth Owen-Smith

Garth Owen-Smith is has been regarded as a ‘conservationist extraordinaire’ and ‘the man who saved Kaokoland, home to Namibia’s desert-adapted elephants’. He is also a gifted writer with a highly unusual and gripping story to tell of his forty years living in the field in Namibia’s Kaokoland. An Arid Eden introduces a vivid cast of characters from Namibia's diverse cultures - including the Herero, Himba, and Damara. Through his trials and tribulations, Owen-Smith uncovers what can be considered a blueprint for successful conservation in Africa. It is a tremendous read for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone interested in conservation. Available at Amazon.com with a preview of the first chapter.

Skeleton Coast by Amy Schoeman

Once an area feared and shunned because of its treacherous coastline, Namibia's Skeleton Coast is now prized as a place of solitude, beauty and tranquility. In the early 1980s, Amy Schoeman took a deep and penetrating look into the strange and elusive visual qualities of this remote and dynamic desert wilderness. Skeleton Coast will delight visitors intrigued by the history and mystique of Namibia's coastline. Order directly from the South African publisher, or find a used version at Alibris and Amazon. If you can't get a copy of the book - go directly to the source: the Schoeman family still operates private tours of the Skeleton Coast

An Elephant’s Life by Caitlin O'Connell

This unique and intimate immersion into the life of the African elephant blends stunning photography with a deep and passionate understanding of one of Namibia's most majestic creatures. Elephant Life up-close and personal look at elephant society, narrated by Caitilin O'Connell, a world-renowned field biologist who has been researching and photographing elephants in their natural habitat for two decades. A must read for visitors wanted to gain a better understanding into one of Namibia's most fascinating animals. Click here to get an inside look and order.

A History of Namibia by Marion Wallace

Marion Wallace’s A History of Namibia is highly praised by academics and historians who specialize in African history. This book offers visitors a more indepth look into Namibia's history than those found in a typical guide book, begining with the first human footsteps by ancient peoples, years of colonization by European powers, and the creation of a new nation. Visitors to Namibia will quickly appreciate this book's ability to provide context to this rich and culturally diverse nation. Order it here.