Namibia in bloom after the rains

There’s never been a better time to be in Namibia - but move fast to take
advantage of good prices. A rare phenomenon has led to the Naukluft Mountain
ravines becoming inundated with rain, which flowed into the Tsauchab River,
seeped into the Sesriem Canyon and caused a deluge in the desert.

At Sossusvlei, the pans between Namibia’s largest, most famous dunes, were
filled overnight. While the river will subside quickly, the pans will remain
full and, in time, lilies will bloom and bright yellow devil thorn flowers
will carpet the water’s edge, attracting flocks of birds.

Expert Africa offers the chance to witness this rare event on a ten-day Dik
Dik self-drive safari, available until March 14. It takes in the dunes and
mountains of the Naukluft region and the neo-Bavarian town of Swakopmund and
costs from %26pound;1,037 with a flight from Gatwick, car hire and nine nights’
accommodation with meals.

A discounted package to the region is available between March 5 and 31 with CC
Africa Safaris and includes transfers from Windhoek Airport and two nights
in Sossusvlei Mountain Lodge. It now costs %26pound;447.