Summer Skiing in the Namibian Desert

There are thrilling runs and opportunities to ski all year round, though not in the usual way on glittering ski slopes. Ski fans are sure to enjoy it. The dunes of Namibia’s sand desert even have a ski jump, as well as steep slopes for fast descents.

This type of skiing on desert dunes has become a popular sport not only in Namibia. In recent years, however, people have always used so-called sandboards for it. That has now changed.

Henrik May from Thuringia was a pioneer, using downhill and cross-country skis to enjoy skiing on Namibia’s sand dunes. The dune between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund is already well known to Namibia insiders. On Dune 7, you can make some pretty fast runs on downhill skis. 

It’s a very special thrill—after all, who can say they’ve skied in summer heat of nearly 40 degrees? Everyone who has given it a try has been thrilled, says ski pro Henrik May. And he has suitable ski equipment ready for anyone interested in trying it out in the desert.

It’s extremely helpful for newcomers to the sandy slopes to already have plenty of experience skiing on snow. Skiing on sand is quite different from a typical run on a ski slope. You need to be able to adapt to the particularities of the sandy terrain. These runs put much more wear on the ski bases than ordinary downhill runs on snow.

You won’t find ski lifts among Namibia’s dunes. You’ll have to make the climb under your own steam. But well-trained skiers shouldn’t find it too difficult.

As a reward for the physical effort, Namibia offers a wonderfully beautiful panorama—and in every season.

Of course, it’s essential to apply plenty of sunscreen on ski trips in Namibia’s heat. Otherwise, even seasoned skiers could find this skiing adventure ending unpleasantly.