Exploring the dunes and denizens of Namibia, searching for scallops and more

Namibia is probably best known for its huge, brilliantly colored sand dunes. For those attracted to Africa's famed wildlife it would seem a less likely destination than East Africa and the Serengeti. Yet it's a place that's home to elephants that have adapted to the desert as well as zebra, giraffe, various antelope, ostrich, lion, cheetah and leopard. Adventure Life offers a 14-day/13-night tour that provides an immersion into the dunes and the wildlife, including an outing that involves foot tracking rare black rhinos. That's the highlight of a stay at the Desert Rhino Camp, a luxe lodging in the Palmwag Concession, which contains nearly 70 percent of the world's largest free-roaming population of black rhinos. In the vicinity of Palmwag in the northern part of the country is Etosha National Park. There's more luxe accommodations here, with Ongava Lodge featuring the main lounge and dining areas that overlook a watering hole that attracts all manner of game. South of Etosha is Okonjima Nature Reserve, home to the AfriCat Foundation, which rehabilitates big cats, particularly injured or captured leopard and cheetah. Namibia borders the Atlantic Ocean, and on a visit to Swakopmund there's sea kayaking to watch seals and dolphins play in the wild. This isn't an inexpensive trip, but lodgings are first rate, and all meals are included. Pricing starts at about $12,400 per person, double occupancy. International air is extra. Info: 800-344-6118, http://tinyurl.com/ycehr2qh