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presence in this barren landscape. The only Valley, a rugged, canyon-like terrain
living creature we saw was a tractrac chat, shaped by the Swakop River. This dramatic
a tiny bird hoping for a handout. landscape, with deep ravines and black-
We paused to view the ancient Wel- ened ridges, is often described as lunar.
witschia mirabilis, a fascinating desert Nearby, we enjoyed an outdoor lunch,
plant with just two leaves that grow contin- sampling regional specialties as our hosts
uously and can live for over 2,000 years. A battled the wind and blowing sand.
loud boom interrupted our guide; it was a The day ended in Swakopmund, a
blast from a nearby uranium mine. He coastal town with Bavarian-style architec-
noted the fragility of the environment jux- ture, a refreshing change of scenery. But it
taposed with the demands of industry was Namibia’s stark natural beauty that
needed for jobs and infrastructure. made a lasting impression on us.
Our journey continued through Moon
100 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE SPRING 2025
