Self drive Safari in Namibia

NAMIBIA HIGHLIGHTS SAFARI
8 nights & 9 days self drive namibia

safari cost  ·  best season  ·  activities ·  map of safari

This popular round trip combines a visit to the fascinating dune landscapes of the famous Sossusvlei in the southern Namib Desert, the rich coastal diversity in and around Swakopmund, the attractions of the central and northern regions of scenic Damaraland and the wildlife kingdom of the Etosha National Park.

Day 1: Windhoek - Sesriem (±400 km)
After departure from Windhoek, drive along the scenic Gamsberg Pass or via Rehoboth and the Spreetshoogte Pass to Sesriem, gateway to the dune desert. Experience the everchanging landscapes en route, as the terrain becomes more arid towards Solitaire and the Namib Desert. The lodge offers spacious and tastefully decorated bungalow-rooms with private shower/WC, built in the style of Bedouin tents and overlooking the unusual landscapes of the area. A huge restaurant-terrace invites you for a romantic candlelight dinner under a star-studded sky.

Overnight Sesriem Region (Sossusvlei Lodge) - dinner, bed and breakfast basis

Day 2: Sesriem (±125 km for Sossusvlei excursion)
An optional self drive or guided excursion to Sossusvlei is recommended for the early morning hours. It takes you on a journey of discovery along the ancient riverbed of the Tsauchab River to its end in the famous Sossusvlei. This clay pan is surrounded by some of the highest sand dunes on earth. Climbing one of them affords the energetic traveller the unforgettable experience of endless vistas across a sea of apricot-coloured sand. Before returning to your overnight accommodation, explore the impressive sandstone gorges of the Sesriem Canyon. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure around the swimming pool or join optional afternoon activities.

Overnight: Sesriem Region (Sossusvlei Lodge) - dinner, bed and breakfast basis

Day 3: Sesriem - Swakopmund (±380 km)
The next leg of the journey takes you in a northwesterly direction to the picturesque Ghaub and Kuiseb Canyons and through the Namib Naukluft Park to the Atlantic Ocean coastline. Travel via the harbour town of Walvis Bay and along the coastal dune belt to Swakopmund, Namibia's foremost holiday resort. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the historic town of Swakopmund. The hotel is situated within easy walking distance of all major attractions such as the beaches, the Crystal Gallery, the Natural History Museum, historic buildings and handicraft shops. Your en suite room is as spacious and tastefully decorated as the wellknown restaurant, bar and other relaxation facilities.

Overnight Swakopmund Region (Hansa Hotel) - lunch packs, bed and breakfast basis

Day 4: Swakopmund
The morning lends itself to an optional excursion into the central Namib Desert. Here you may familiarise yourself with the ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis plants on the vast gravel plains, and the Moon Valley near the Swakop River. This river is one of the longest and broadest of the country's ephemeral watercourses. Around midday, proceed in a northward direction, along the Skeleton Coast with its lichen fields and salt works, to Henties Bay, an angler's paradise. For the afternoon, an optional visit is recommended to the Diaz Cross and Cape Cross Seal Reserve, one of the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

Overnight Swakopmund Region (Hansa Hotel) - bed and breakfast basis

Day 5: Swakopmund - Twyfelfontein, Damaraland (±380 km)
After an early breakfast, proceed into Namibia's northern interior, passing the impressive Brandberg Mountain and the former tin mine of Uis into scenic Damaraland. About one and a half hours drive south west of Khorixas you will find the main attractions of this area and your accommodation, a comfortable lodge with an interestingly designed main building and spacious rooms with en suite shower/WC. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Overnight Khorixas Region (Twyfelfontein Lodge) - dinner, bed and breakfast basis

Day 6: Damaraland (±210 km)
Twyfelfontein, meaning 'doubtful spring' has been occupied for thousands of years, with its spring attracting huge herds of game making this an excellent base for early game viewing. The slopes are strewn with boulders; dotted with thousands of paintings and ancient engravings, a virtual open-air museum. Geological features in the area include the organ pipes, angular columns of dolerite, all of which form part of Namibia’s rich natural history and the Petrified Forest. Proceed via Khorixas, which used to be the old administrative capital of Windhoek and on to the town of Outjo.

Outjo area (Etosha Garden Hotel) - dinner, bed and breakfast basis

Day 7: Etosha National Park (±370 km)
Enter the world famous Etosha National Park where you will enjoy a full day’s game viewing, as you head east. The game and birds found here are typical of the savannah plains of Southern Africa, but include several species endemic to the western side of the continent, adjacent to the Namib Desert. Herbivores such as zebra, elephant, giraffe, Eland, Blue Wildebeest, Gemsbok, springbok, kudu and steenbok abound. Among the rarer species, Black and White Rhino (recently reintroduced). Black-Faced Impala, restricted to Namibia and southern Angola, and the Damara dik-dik, the park’s smallest antelope, are also found. Hundreds of bird species have been recorded with many migrants during the summer period. Exit the National Park and proceed to the private lodge.

Overnight Etosha National Park (Mokuti Lodge) - dinner, bed and breakfast basis

Day 8: Etosha National Park - Otjiwarango (±288 km - excluding game drives)
Further wildlife encounters are likely before you depart. The history of Tsumeb is depicted in the Tsumeb Museum, where a comprehensive collection of rare minerals can be viewed. The Khorab Room displays a collection of restored cannons and other armaments dumped into Lake Otjikoto by retreating German forces. Proceed to your overnight’s accommodation.

Overnight Otjiwarango (Otjibamba Lodge) - dinner, bed and breakfast basis

Day 9: Windhoek (±250 km)
Okahandja is the administrative centre for the Herero people and several Herero chiefs are buried in the cemetery. The Kavango woodcarvers ply their trade at a large open-air market on the outskirts of town, one of the best places to purchase woodcarvings. Return to Windhoek in the late afternoon and arrive at your Windhoek hotel or the airport. Same day departures from Windhoek are only possible for flights leaving after 18h00. Optional extra transfers and addon overnights are available. This tour is also available on a scheduled escorted basis.

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Costs:
Please contact us for a detailed quote on this safari.

Included:
Car hire for 9 days
Accommodation as per the itinerary
Meals as per the itinerary


Excluded: International flights, airport and departure taxes, visa costs, drinks, gratuities and personal expenses, comprehensive travel insurance.

Activities:
Actiities as per the itinerary

Best season:
Namibia offers exceptional wildlife and scenery all year round. It is important to take note that certain seasons are ideal for special interest travelers:
- Birding is best during the summer months (Nov - April) because of the greater variety of species to be found.
- Botanical season is from December to May when most plants are in flower.
- Photography is excellent in August and September with cloud build-up in the afternoon that offers spectacular scenes.

Map of safari route:



Extend your stay: South Africa

Cost of extension:
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Extend your safari:
to the Okavango Delta

to the Mozambique Islands

to the Makgadikgadi

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Term and conditions: Please read our terms and conditions for more information on how to book, travel insurance, cancellation fees, baggage and other important subjects.


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