Photographer Captures Stunning Pictures Of Namibia From Paraglider

Theo Allofs travels the world taking stunning pictures of untouched landscapes from a unique perspective.

Soaring 300 metres above ground, Theo shot the yellow sand dunes, dry red river beds and remote townships in Namibia.

His use of a paraglider, which can soar to 1400m above ground, also allowed him to follow a flock of ostriches and a herd of zebras.

Theo’s unusual method of transport meant he could explore the far reaches of the desert and minimise the disruption to wildlife.

He said: “Sometimes animals already run away when I am still far away.

“Other times animals are nervous first and then quickly get used to this big bird and the noise it makes.

“I try to fly high enough not to disturb any wildlife.”

He first started to paraglide five years ago in the midst of a self-confessed mid-life crisis – and despite being afraid of heights.

He said: “I started at an age when most guys being punished by the midlife crises find comfort in buying a Harley Davidson and hanging a heavy gold chain around their necks.

“I decided to go up into the air despite my extreme fear of heights.”

Theo researches his chosen landscapes on Google Earth and makes sure he always carries his paraglider with him when he is driving across the remote regions.

He said: “All I need is an open area the size of a football field and no to little wind in order to fly.

“Take offs are the most difficult part as one has to run with over 50kg on your back plus camera gear hanging on your chest.

“If there is no wind at all take-offs can be a real challenge and the runs can be very long.”
Once he is in the air the snapper can take pictures for up to two hours.

He added: “I have a fascination for deserts. And especially for the Namib Desert, the most diverse and beautiful desert I have encountered so far.

“The Namib Desert does not only offer a diversity of spectacular landscapes but also much wildlife.”