Namib, desert, c.800 mi (1,290 km) long and from 30 to 100 mi (50-160 km) wide, SW Africa, along the coast of Namibia. It occupies a rocky platform between the Atlantic Ocean and the escarpment of the interior plateau. Isolated mountains rise from the desert and sand dunes cover its southern portion. It receives less than 1/2 in. (1.3 cm) of rain annually and is barren of vegetation. Tungsten, salt, and alluvial diamonds are mined.

Desert region, extending 1,200 mi (1,900 km) from Namibe, Angola, along the entire coast of Namibia to the Olifants River in South Africa. It is an almost rainless area, 50–80 mi (80–130 km) wide over most of its length, traversed by rail lines linking Walvis Bay with the Republic of South Africa. It is basically a smooth platform of bedrock of various types and ages. In the southern half the platform is covered with sand. The eastern part, the Inner Namib, supports large numbers of antelope. The shore area has a dense population of marine birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and penguins.

Learn more about Namib Desert with a free trial on Britannica.com.