Important Information
Namibia is a destination unlike any other in Africa. With its almost otherworldly dune landscapes, ancient deserts and incredible game viewing opportunities, Namibia is the ultimate African road trip destination for intrepid explorers.
| COST & VALIDITY | 1st April 2021 – 31st October 2021 NAD 62 070 per Person Sharing NAD 4 590 Single Supplement |
| WHAT TO BRING | Comfortable shoes Warm jackets Sunhat and sunglasses Sun cream Cameras Personal belongings Personal medication |
| IMPORTANT NOTE | Namibia emergency number: +264 81 127 0564 |
| INCLUDED | Accommodation and boards as per itinerary Giant’s Playground Quiver Tree Forest 1x Kalahari Game Drive Entrance fees (Kolmanskop, Sossusvlei, Etosha) Qualified Professional English-speaking Driver guide Recommended vehicle for the Tour according to Namibian Standards and fuel Porterages Transfer from the International Airport to the accommodation Day 1 Transfer from the Accommodation to the International Airport Day 18 Tourism Levy 15% VAT |
| NOT INCLUDED | Flights Travel insurance Visa fees (where applicable) Airport taxes |
Day 1
Stampriet
Arrival at the Windhoek International Airport. Your personal Guide/Driver for your Namibian Safari will meet you here. Your guide will greet you and assist you with your luggage before you embark on your journey to the south-eastern part of Namibia via Rehoboth and Mariental.
Rehoboth, like many other towns in Namibia, was built around a mission station. Heinrich Kleinschmidt founded it in 1844 and abandoned it in 1864. The mission was reopened when the Basters moved here in 1870. The Rehoboth Basters are half-breeds descended from the union of Cape Province Boers and Nama women. They relocated from the Cape to the Orange River in the nineteenth century.
Further into the Kalahari Desert’s dry basin.
The Kalahari Desert covers a large portion of eastern Namibia and stretches for about 500 kilometers from north to south. The Kalahari is commonly referred to as a desert due to its porous and sandy soil, which does not allow for water absorption. In reality, it is a bustling wilderness, with vast herds of antelope and other animals grazing on its sparsely vegetated grassy plains.
Later in the afternoon, go on an open jeep safari to see the typical flora and fauna of the Kalahari Desert. End the day on the crest of a dune with a view and feel the cooling Kalahari sand between your toes, with drinks and snacks provided.
Dinner, Overnight and Breakfast at the Kalahari Farmhouse
Day 2
Stampriet to Aus
After breakfast, drive to Aus via Mariental.
Mariental, also known as the “Gateway to the South,” is an important agricultural center. It has the most Karakul sheep in the country, and the ostrich farm just north of town was the country’s first commercial operation of its kind.
Along the way, stop by the geological phenomenon Giants Playground and the magnificent Quiver Tree Forrest.
Aus is home to a wild horse herd of approximately 150 animals. They trot back and forth between the sparse pastures and the waterhole at Garub, having adapted to the desert conditions. There are also the ruins of a World War I internment camp in Aus. After 1915, approximately 1,500 Schutztruppe soldiers were imprisoned here for four years.
Giant’s Playground
The name “Giant’s Playground” refers to how the massive dolerite boulders appear to have been purposefully stacked on top of one another by a gigantic hand. The way the boulders are stacked creates fascinating rock formations as well as a series of mazes where it is easy to lose one’s bearings if one is not careful. Hiking between these rock formations will keep visitors entertained for a couple of hours and will provide plenty of photo opportunities.
Quiver Tree Forest
A natural forest of approximately 200 quiver trees, set on a large outcrop of blackish dolerite rocks, is located 14 kilometers from Keetmanshoop and is well worth a visit. Quiver trees, named after the pliable bark used by Bushmen to make quivers for their arrows, are actually unusually large succulents with scaly bark and twisted branches topped with spiky, fleshy leaves. The most mature trees here are between 200 and 300 years old, with some reaching heights of nine metres. The forest, designated a national monument in 1955, is best viewed at sunrise or sunset, when the soft, warm light enhances the already captivating scenery.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Klein Aus Vista – Desert Horse Inn
• Included: Entrance fees for Giants Playground and Quiver Tree Forrest
Day 3
Aus
Today you visit Kolmanskoppe, a ghost town.
Kolmanskoppe, a former diamond town, is about 12 kilometers before Lüderitz. During track construction in 1908, a black railroad worker discovered the first diamond here. A short time later, diamond fever erupted. Kolmanskoppe once housed 300 professionals and their families, as well as several thousand black workers. Many of the buildings are now silted up to the second floor, while others, such as the gymnasium, are still in excellent condition, with even the gymnastic equipment remaining.
Return to the lodge and spend the afternoon at your leisure.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Klein Aus Vista – Desert Horse Inn
• Included: Entrance fee to Kolmanskoppe
Day 4
Aus to NamibRand Nature Reserve
You will depart Aus after a leisurely breakfast. The adventure now takes you to the Namib Desert.
The Namib Desert stretches over 1900 kilometers from South Africa’s Cape Province to Angola. It is thought to be one of the world’s oldest deserts. The Namib is traversed by two year-round water-bearing rivers. It is believed that the highest dunes in the world can be found here, reaching heights of up to 300 meters.
Namibia’s northern border is formed by the Kunene River, while its southern border is formed by the Orange River. It can be found up to 200 kilometers inland in the driest areas.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at We-Kebi Safari Lodge
Day 5
NamibRand Nature Reserve
Today, you have an early departure to Sossusvlei and the opportunity to climb one of the world’s highest sand dunes. The unique color example of the dune landscape will inarguably impress you, and you will undoubtedly be able to take beautiful photographs here.
Sossusvlei is a dune wonderland, with towering dunes up to 300m high encircling a massive dried-up pan. Dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, with rich hues ranging from pale apricot to vivid reds and oranges. The Tsauchab River flows into the pan during a good rainy season, creating a haven for water birds. Oryx, springbok, and ostriches can be seen feeding on the sparse vegetation along the watercourses even during the dry season.
This is the Vlei itself, where at the moment the waters of the Tsauchab River are disappearing into the red sand of the Namib.
Before leaving the dunes, you hike through the Sesriem Canyon. The Sesriem Canyon, a deep ravine, is an impressive natural feature of the area that is best explored on foot. The canyon’s name means “six belts” because early settlers used it as a source of water, drawing water with six lengths of leather. It’s where centuries of erosion have carved a 1 km-long narrow gorge. Deep pools of water at the bottom of the gorge, which drops 30m to 40m, are replenished after heavy rains.
Return to your lodge and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at We-Kebi Safari Lodge
• Included: Entrance fee to Sossusvlei
Day 6
NamibRand Nature Reserve to Swakopmund
Drive through the Namib Desert’s endless boulders, via Solitaire, the Gaub Pass, and the Kuiseb Pass, until you arrive in Walvis Bay.
Solitaire derives its name from two meanings: one refers to a single solitaire diamond, and the other refers to the area’s solitude or loneliness. The two meanings combined to form the definition of a distinct, valuable, and solitary location. The small settlement in the middle of the Namib Desert has a gas station, post office, general dealer, and a restaurant/bar known for its delicious apple pie. It’s the ideal place to stop on the way between Sesriem and Sossusvlei and Swakopmund or Windhoek.
Walvis Bay is Namibia’s main harbor town, and it is quickly becoming a popular destination for spending a holiday at the coast. Attractions include the lagoon, which has a thriving birdlife, with an estimated 80 000 wading birds, including flamingos and rare white pelicans. On March 1, 1994, the Republic of Namibia incorporated Walvis Bay and the offshore islands, a former South African enclave. The town has a well-developed and efficient port, and its fishing harbor serves as the focal point of Namibia’s rapidly growing fishing industry.
Drive to Swakopmund from there. The road to Swakopmund follows a coastal road, with the sea on the left and dunes that almost reach the sea on the right.
Arrive in Swakopmund in the late afternoon and check into your hotel.
Overnight and Breakfast at the Hansa Hotel
Day 7
Swakopmund
Namibians adore Swakopmund as a welcome respite from the inland heat. It is also popular amongst visitors due to its old-world charm and relaxed atmosphere. It was founded in 1892 during the German colonial period and served as the territory’s main harbor for many years. The distinct German colonial character has been well preserved, and many of the old buildings now serve a practical purpose. The Woermann House (1905) is now a gallery. Previously, the Woermann Tower was used to monitor ships entering the harbor. Other historic buildings worth seeing include “Die Alte Kaserne,” “Hohenzollern Haus,” and the Railway Station Building.
This idyllic town, also known as Namibia’s playground, is nestled between the Namib Desert and the frigid Atlantic Ocean.
The day can be spend at leisure. You can participate in one of the many activities available in and around Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, or you can explore the city on your own, such as strolling through the woodcarving market or simply strolling along the beach and enjoying a cup of coffee right on the beach.
Optional: Levo Dolphin & Seal Tour
This dolphin and seal cruise departs at 08:30 am from the Walvis Bay Tanker Jetty and lasts for approximately four hours. The trip begins with a tour of the Walvis Bay Harbour and past the fish factories, and then on to Bird Island past the Russian Trawlers to Pelican Point where guests can view the Cape Fur Seal Colony. A variety of birds such as pelicans, flamingos, cormorants, and more can be seen en-route. Guests can snack on fresh oysters and champagne while watching the dolphins play in the tranquil waters.
Optional: Tommy’s Tours and Safaris Living Desert Tour
The Living Desert Tour, originally developed by Tommy himself in the 1990’s, is a unique 4×4 adventure drive through the dunes outside Swakopmund, Namibia. Just the drive in the dunes is an amazing experience, but Tommy will show you a lot more than sand. The tour takes you from the vegetated, life-rich eastern side of the dunes, right through the dunes to the Atlantic Ocean on the western side of the dune belt.
Overnight and Breakfast at the Hansa Hotel
Day 8
Swakopmund to Erongo Mountains
After breakfast drive North via Usakas to Omaruru.
Usakos, a small sun-baked town nestled in the Khan River valley, developed around a station on the old narrow-gauge railway built in 1900. Beyond Usakos is the Trekkopje Battlefield, site of one of the most significant battles of the short-lived 1915 campaign involving South African and German forces.
Axel Eriksson, a Swedish traveler and hunter, established his trading ventures in Omaruru in 1870. The same year, a mission station was established on the banks of the Omaruru River, and the mission house, the town’s oldest structure, now serves as the local museum, displaying early missionaries, an antique cool drink machine, and farming implements, among other things. Omaruru means “bitter curd” in Herero, referring to the bitter taste of milk produced by cows that have eaten the bitter bush.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Onduruquea Lodge
Day 9
Erongo Mountains
The day can be spent at leisure.
You can participate in a variety of activities offered at the lodge.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Onduruquea Lodge
Day 10
Erongo Mountains to Etosha South
After breakfast drive to Etosha National Park passing through Outjo.
Situated at a year-round water source, the town was founded in 1880 by trader Tom Lambert. Five years later a German military unit settled here. One of Outjo’s first houses was the Franke House, an old stone house built in 1899 by German troops under the direction of Captain von Estdorff.
Etosha National Park in northern Namibia is one of the most beautiful nature reserves in Africa. Already in 1907 Governor von Lindequist had declared Etosha a nature reserve on an area five times larger than today’s national park is. The current size of Etosha National Park is 22 270 square kilometers. The national park is home to large herds of springbok, impala, zebra and wildebeest, as well as about 1500 elephants, 1800 giraffes, 300 lions, leopards, cheetahs and 300 black rhinos, as well as over 300 different bird species and about 110 different reptile species.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Etosha Safari Camp
• Included: Entrance fee into National Park
Day 11
Etosha South
After breakfast, have a full-day game drive by coach across the famous national park.
In the late afternoon leave the park and drive back to your lodge.
Etosha is derived from the Oshiwambo language and means “big, white place.” The park is home to more than 100 mammal species and 340 bird species. Because of the Etosha National Park’s fencing, the park’s animals were reliant on the water and food resources found within the fence. Thus, water is supplied by water holes, some of which are natural and some of which are artificial.
The Etosha National Park is home to a network of waterholes. In the western part of the park, 5 natural and 27 artificial water holes are found, compared to 29 natural and 12 artificial ones in the eastern part. These form the livelihood for the animals in the park and also serve as viewing points for tourists.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Etosha Safari Camp
• Included: Entrance fee into National Park
Day 12
Etosha South to Etosha East
Get your camera ready for another full-day game drive by coach across the famous national park.
In the late afternoon leave the park on the eastern side.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Mokuti Etosha Lodge
• Included: Entrance fee into National Park
Day 13
Etosha East to Otavi Mountain Region
Today you drive via Tsumeb to Ghaub Lodge
The town of Tsumeb, gateway to the north, has been closely linked to the mining industry since 1905. Tsumeb, which now has a population of about 15,000 people, was originally home to the San (Bushmen), Namibia’s original inhabitants. They discovered copper ore deposits here and were able to extract copper from deposits found close to the surface. This resulted in a brisk trade in copper, which the colonialists soon discovered.
They organized several excursions to investigate the ore deposits and discovered that exploitation of the resources was difficult due to the remoteness of the area and the lack of transportation routes. The history of Tsumeb is depicted in the Tsumeb Museum, where a comprehensive collection of rare minerals can be viewed. In the Khorab room a collection of restored canons and other armaments, which were dumped into Lake Otjikoto by the German forces, are displayed.
The lodge offers various activities that you can participate in.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Ghaub Lodge
Travel distance: 154.0 km
Day 14
Otavi Mountain Region to Otjiwarongo
Enjoy a delectable breakfast. Then, passing through Otavi, make your way to the Waterberg Plateau Park’s surroundings.
The Waterberg Plateau is one of northern Namibia’s most impressive landscapes. The National Park’s plateau is 50 kilometers long and 16 kilometers wide, and it towers as a table mountain over the surrounding area by about 200 meters. The water-scarce plateau of the National Park is covered by tree and bush savannah; however, the vegetation at the plateau’s foot is very diverse.
The flora includes wild fig trees, acacias, fire lilies, and the coral trees. Water buffalo and leopards, as well as several breeding pairs of the rare Cape vulture, ibex, klipspringer, sable, and eland antelope, and other mammal and especially bird species, have been reintroduced here. The area is historically significant because of the decisive battle in 1904 between the Imperial Schutztruppe and the rebellious Hereros. The military cemetery at the foot of the mountain bears witness to those events.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Frans Indongo Lodge
Day 15
Otjiwarongo
Today can be spent at leisure.
You can participate in a variety of activities offered at the lodge.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Frans Indongo Lodge
Day 16
Otjiwarongo to Windhoek
Today you will drive to the last lodge of your travel in Namibia.
Drive to Windhoek passing through Otjiwarongo and Okahandja.
Originally known as Kanubes to the Herero, Otjiwarongo is said to mean “pretty place” or “place of the fat cattle”, as the area is well known for its cattle ranches. Situated about 250km north of Windhoek, on a slope amid undulating plains, there are many guest farms and lodges in the Otjiwarongo district. Two interesting features of the town are the Otjiwarongo Crocodile Ranch where crocodiles are bred, as well as the Cheetah Conservation Fund, an internationally-recognized organization. The CCF is dedicated to ensuring the long-term survival of the cheetah through research, conservation, and education.
Directly north of Windhoek lies Okahandja, a town of great significance to the Herero because it was the seat of Chief Samuel Maharero. Every year in August thousands of Hereros gathers here for a pilgrimage to pay homage at the graves of their great chiefs. Okahandja is an important center for woodcarvers from the north.
Dinner, Overnight, and Breakfast at Voigtland Guesthouse
Day 17
Windhoek
Today you have the day at leisure.
The lodge has many activities to participate in.
In the afternoon, enjoy a City tour of the Namibian capital, visiting the Christ Church, the Old Fortress, the gardens of the Ink Palace as well as the districts of Klein-Windhoek, and as a contrast the district of the Bantu-speaking population group – Katutura. We will also drive along Windhoek’s “boulevard”, Independence Avenue (formerly Kaiserstrasse).
Windhoek is the largest city in the country with 450,000 inhabitants and is the political, economic, and cultural center. The city is situated at an altitude of 1650 meters, nestled between the Auas Mountains in the south, the Eros Mountains in the northeast, and the Khomas Highlands in the west.
Relax and enjoy dinner at the famous Joe’s Beerhouse.
Overnight, and Breakfast at Voigtland Guesthouse
Day 18
Departure
Today it is time to pack your bags. The day is at your disposal until the airport transfer. Say farewell to the tour guide.
We wish you a good flight home.
Kalahari Farmhouse Gondwana Collection Namibia
Kalahari Farmhouse is located in Stampriet, 53 kilometers northeast of Mariental (Kalahari). The Kalahari Farmhouse is closed to the public from January 1st to March 31st of each year.
In the arid Kalahari, a lush secret garden. This small lodge has 11 chalets that are decorated with colorful quilts, fireplaces, and a cosy farmhouse charm. Visit the nearby Self-Sufficiency Centre, take a trip into Gondwana Kalahari Park to watch the sunset over the fiery red dunes, and relax.
Klein-Aus Vista Desert Horse Inn Gondwana Collection Namibia
The Desert Horse Inn is located on the B 4 about 2 kilometers west of Aus.
Klein Aus Vista is located where the subtle colours of the grassy Pro-Namib merge with Namib sands in a lovers’ embrace. Desert Horse Inn, surrounded by the rocky Aus hills, is an appealing base for a trip to the famed dunes of Sossusvlei in South-Western Namibia.
We Kebi Safari Lodge
In the almost forgotten tongue of the San Bushmen, We Kebi means invitation. To hold true to the tradition of the San people of the desert, who roamed the plains and mountains surrounding We Kebi for thousands of years. Come and experience the solitude, privacy and tranquility at We Kebi Safari Lodge. Each of the free standing en-suite luxury chalets has its own pavilion and a 180 degree uninterrupted view of the surrounding landscape. An hour’s drive from We Kebi on the C19 will bring you to the world famous dunes of Sossusvlei.
Hansa Hotel
Centrally situated, the hotel serves as the perfect getaway to all tourists amenities which Swakopmund and surrounding areas have to offer, from sand-boarding some of the highest dunes in the world to big game viewing in one of our country’s world-known game parks. Surrounded by local tour operators, aviation and safari offices and five minutes from the beach, the Hansa Hotel is perfect for the discerning traveler looking for an adrenaline filled holiday or merely a bit of relaxation.
Twyfelfontein Country Lodge
Welcome to Twyfelfontein Country Lodge. A true landmark situated in the heart of one of the world’s most magnificent wilderness regions. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Twyfelfontein in Damaraland is home to one of the largest collections of rock-art engravings found in Southern Africa. Not only did the Khoi-San and tribes of ancient years leave us with a true cultural heritage, but the whole area is characterized by natural wonders such as Doros Crater, Burnt Mountain, Organ Pipes, Petrified Forest and desert adapted animals – of which the desert adapted elephant is probably the most well-known species.
Nestled along the mountainside, the lodge beautifully blends in with its surrounding environment. Using natural stone, carefully selected paint colors and thatched roofs, its design compliments the sandstone rock formations with minimum visual impact on this picturesque landscape. Magnificent views from the deck over the Huab Valley, desert plains and distant mountains provides for hours of relaxed comfort, peace and tranquility. Twyfelfontein is much more than just accommodation; it is a destination in itself.
Etosha Safari Camp Gondwana Collection Namibia
Etosha Safari Camp is located 10 km south of Andersson Gate on the C 38 (Etosha National Park).
Tap toes to an African beat in the novel Oshebeena Bar and relax at this friendly Camp, 10 kilometres from Etosha National Park. 50 chalets, shaded by mopane trees, and a grassy campsite provide a comfortable home from which to explore the abundant animal kingdom. Legendary.
Mokuti Etosha Lodge
Mokuti Etosha Lodge is the perfect venue for travellers wanting to explore the famous eastern side of Etosha National Park and is located on its own private 4 000 hectare nature reserve, which shares a common border with this impressive wildlife reserve. Known for its excellent and diverse wildlife encounters, it has become a popular venue for meetings, incentives, weddings and honeymoons. This intimate lodge has 90 rooms and 16 luxury rooms. Recently refurbished, they are all air conditioned and come equipped with satellite TV, a mini-fridge, safes, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee-making facilities and en-suite bathrooms. The lodge also offers the Tambuti Dining Room and Marula Bar, the Pool Bar and Terrace, two tennis courts, a spa, a gym and the only open air African Boma in the area.
Ghaub Lodge
Ghaub Lodge of Ghaub Nature Reserve & Farm is located in the agricultural heartland of the fertile Otavi triangle in northern central of Namibia. Sprawling lawns dotted with palm trees and original old-style mission buildings roll into wild bush and a view of Otavi Mountains in the distance.
The major attraction at Ghaub are the white rhinos which can be experienced at very close range on a Rhino drive or a Rhino tracking tour on foot. Adventurous guests can join a guided excursion of the Ghaub cave. With its passages leading down to a depth of 38 m below the surface and in total being 2.5 km long, it is Namibia’s third largest cave. Well-marked nature trails also invite to explore on your own the mountainous landscape with lush vegetation and more than 250 species of birds.
Frans Indongo Lodge
You can truly relax with us. Let us pamper you – after all, you are on holiday. Relax on the sundeck at the swimming pool and watch a succession of Sable Antelope, Black Springbok and Nyala quench their thirst at the nearby water hole. Relish the special African atmosphere: the lodge and the interior decoration feature stylish traditional elements from the Ovambo culture in northern Namibia – the birthplace of Frans Indongo.
You can’t afford to miss this! Watch cheetahs sprinting and learn more about the fastest terrestrial animal on the planet at the nearby Cheetah Conservation Fund or explore Waterberg Plateau Park, where water is plentiful.
While staying with us you will also experience purest nature, of course. The 170 km² farm boasts an extraordinary abundance of game, including White and Black Rhino, Black Wildebeest and Hartebeest. We take you game-viewing on sundowner drives. For active holidaymakers we have laid out trails which meander through the bush savannah and lead onto a hill with a magnificent look-out point.
We are right on your way. Frans Indongo Lodge is located north-east of Otjiwarongo and north-west of Waterberg Mountain. Thus it is ideally suited as a stop-over on your way from Windhoek to Etosha, the far north, to Bushmanland or the Caprivi. We are close to the tar road but nevertheless in the midst of the African bush savannah
One little hint: take your time. Our guests keep complaining that they would have liked to stay longer…
Voigtland Guesthouse
Originally built in 1900 atop a hill in Windhoek, Voigtland Guesthouse combines old world charm with a modern style. The guesthouse immerses guests among nature while still being close enough to the capital city.
The property is home to a guesthouse featuring various guestrooms, a spacious living and a dining room. The guesthouse offers the choice of delicious home-cooked breakfasts, lunches and suppers. The property also houses four en-suite chalets, two of which are equipt with a kitchenette.
20% Prepayment at time of booking. Balance to be paid 60 days prior to travel
Terms & Conditions
General Terms:
• The hotels mentioned in the itinerary will depend on availability at the time of making the booking. Should alternatives be used it would be of similar standard.
Health:
• See your doctor for advice in regards to vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.
Travelling with Children
- Parents travelling with children must provide an unabridged birth certificate which includes details of the child’s father as well as the mother for all travelling children. This applies even when both parents are travelling with their children.
- When children are travelling with guardians, these adults are required to produce affidavits from the children’s parents proving permission for the children to travel.The above applies to foreigners and South Africans travelling to or from South Africa as well as travellers in transit.
- Please note that the child must be the appropriate age (according to accommodation stipulated) at the time of travel.
- Unless otherwise specified, children under 12 years of age qualify as a child rate and over 12 years of age as an adult rate.
- Rates and policies for children under 12 years of age on request.
