Still not sure what to do on Easter Monday?!
Forget the sofa or the usual countryside picnic (which, let’s be honest, always ends up getting ruined by pouring rain) and come away with us!
Christmas with your family… but on Easter Monday, travel with us!
Why visit Namibia…
1. Deadvlei and Sossusvlei
Deadvlei! One of Namibia’s most iconic landscapes, with its one-of-a-kind dead trees surrounded by red sand dunes.
The shifting of these enormous sand dunes has transformed what was once a fertile marsh into an arid plain. Slowly, over time, the winds moved the massive dunes and cut off the water supply to a series of ‘deadvleis,’ which literally means – as the name suggests – dead marshes.
The ground dried out into salty, crusted clay, and all that remains are the twisted skeletons of acacia trees. The trees are believed to be around 1,000 years old; they are not petrified, but they have not decomposed because the air here is so dry.
A visit to one of the few Deadvleis is a must-see attraction in Namibia.
2. Skeleton Coast
Namibia’s rugged northern Atlantic coast has been nicknamed the Skeleton Coast, and it is dotted with shipwrecks. It rises quickly into a wall of sand hundreds of meters high, and it is truly a sight to see in person.
3. Etosha National Park
Namibia’s most important national park is located in the northern part of the country and is full of wildlife and adventure. Inside the park, you can see just about everything, even the much-sought-after Big Five!
Because of the arid climate, the animals you’ll find here are uniquely adapted to life in the desert.
The best part of this park is the way everything revolves around the waterholes, which draw all the animals in to drink.
4. The seaside town of Swakopmund
Namibia is the second least densely populated country in the world, but this seaside town of 44,000 inhabitants is a must-stop during your stay in the country. The town has a relaxed atmosphere with many local restaurants and specialty shops.
Swakopmund is an ideal place to stock up and take a break during an adventurous trip through Namibia.
Read also: 7 surprising facts about Morocco
… And why visit Sri Lanka on Easter Monday
1. Climb to the top of Sigiriya (Lion Rock Fortress)
Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic historical sites and an incredible place to visit.
Walk to the top of Lion Rock Fortress, but be mentally prepared for the climb of 1,200 steps in the humid heat of the day.
To avoid the biggest crowds – and the midday sun – come here early in the morning or late in the afternoon, bring plenty of water, and apply lots of sunscreen.
The view from the top is incredible, and it is one of the most magical places in all of Sri Lanka!
2. Colombo
Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, is the natural first stop for most people traveling to this country.
In fact, it is not too different from many other Asian capitals: sprawling, polluted, and congested, but it has a lot to offer if you know where to go.
Unfortunately, although Colombo is on the coast, it does not have a very extensive beach: you’ll need to head down to Mount Lavinia to enjoy a proper beach.
3. Galle Fort
This is perhaps one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka and, for that reason, it simply had to be included in our itinerary.
Galle Fort was built in 1588 by the Portuguese and later heavily fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that illustrates European influence in Southeast Asia.
By visiting, you can admire a well-preserved fort, learn something about the history of Sri Lanka, and enjoy the atmosphere. Inside the fort you’ll find narrow streets lined with very charming restaurants, cafés, and guesthouses.
4. Tangalle
Tangalle is one of the largest towns in Sri Lanka’s southern provinces, but people really come here for the beaches.
It includes several beautiful bays, from Goyambokka in the west to Tangalle Beach northeast of central Tangalle.
While you’re there, also stop by Goyambokka Beach, a small bay with a few simple but lovely cafés and restaurants right on the beach.
Even though Tangalle mainly caters to tourists, it feels quieter than Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, and Mirissa.
Read also: What are the 7 wonders of the world and why, in reality, they aren’t 7!
Conclusions
So, have you decided: Namibia or Sri Lanka?
If you’re still not entirely sure, here are the full itineraries for both destinations.
We’re waiting for you!