Wolwedans Dunes Lodge - Dünenfahrten in den Namib Rand

Spotted Hyena / Tüpfelhyänen am Wegesrand nach Niederschlägen

Verbindungsstrasse C14 zwischen Walvis Bay und Sossusvlei

Red Hartebeest / Rotkuhantilope in grünem Mopanewald

Black / Hook-lipped Rhino / Spitzmaulnashorn

Elefantenbeobachtung am Moringa Wasserloch

grüne Landschaften zwischen Gaub und Kuiseb im März 2022

Aloe namibensis in Blüte an der Blutkuppe

Namibian Wonders, a self-drive Safari

Leaflove self-drive Safari to prominent highlights of Namibia

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Namibian Wonders, a self-drive Safari

Duration

17 days, flexible arrangement
Additional days possible / recommended

Overview

The classic Namibia journey for getting to know the country, designed with high quality and tailored to individual preferences, offers an interesting mix of good accommodations. The route is extremely diverse and composed of a wide range of interests. You will experience a rich variety of wildlife and diverse plant life in fantastic landscapes and geology. You will encounter the world’s highest dunes, have interactions with the highly interesting cultures of ethnic groups and their history, quite literally carved in stone. You will learn a lot about Namibian history, spend time on a farm, look into the eyes of various big cats, and embark on several hikes. In short, a trip that encompasses Namibia’s most visited highlights and serves as a beautiful ‘all-in-one’ journey.

Highlights

Self-drive yet still informed:

We always put together our trips to be informative and enriching. While you’ll drive the connecting routes yourself, we are happy to arrange the necessary locally guided game drives and activities for you on-site.

Map

Overview

Day 1

Acacia savanna of the central plateau called Khomas Highland
At the lodge, you can relax beautifully and take your first nature walks or join a game drive in the afternoon, to enjoy your first African mammal and bird sightings..

Days 2 & 3

Linear Dunes of the Kalahari
The Kalahari is an endless sea of red sand, carved up by ephemeral rivers with high camelthorn trees - beautiful!

Additional Days for hikers?

The Naukluft Mountain
Cliff jumpers take refuge up the rock faces. Quivering aloes grow out of dolomitic rock faces. Hiking opportunities at paradisiacal springs.

Additional Days on our Farm?

Farm Nomtsas, the Leaflove Safari Nature Protectorate
Look out for giraffes, diverse antelope, warthogs, and an array of semi-desert birdlife. Red sediment winds through vast, barren landscapes, linked by linear oases and ephemeral rivers, providing unexpected sustenance and shelter for wildlife.

Additional Days "high end"?

Namib Rand Nature Reserve
With 202,200 hectares, the Namib Rand Nature Reserve is one of the largest private nature reserves in Africa and by far the most impressive in terms of landscape!

Days 4 & 5

Dune landscapes at Sossusvlei, the Sesriem Canyon, and stunning desert vistas
Sossusvlei, nestled at the end of the Tsauchab River, is a unique floral paradise in the heart of the arid Namib Desert, surrounded by dunes that can soar up to 300 meters high.

Days 6 & 7

The road to Swakopmund..Oldest desert to the majestic Atlantic Ocean...
Swakopmund, a charming coastal town, provides opportunities for leisurely strolls, sunbathing (weather permitting), exploration of both modern and colonial landmarks, and indulging in coffee. .. a kayak trip through thousands of seals?

Days 8 & 9

Spitzkoppe & the mighty Erongo
Granite boulders, rock paintings, endemic birds, changing landscape splendour.

Days 10 & 11

Twyfelfontein and the 'Burnt' Mountain
Desert dwelling elephants, rock-engravings, organ pipes, petrified forest and friendly local Damara people.

2 additional days in Damaraland?

Damaraland & Etendeka
Looking for endangered black rhino.... find desert elephants

2 additional days Etosha West?

Hobatere Nature Reserve in Damaraland
Expect encounters with endemic Hartmann's mountain zebra, numerous antelope and giraffe. Lions, leopards, cheetahs and elephants like to roam this area.

Days 12 & 13

Game viewing in the western & central part of Etosha National Park
The mosaic of ecosystems ensures that every journey through the park is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Days 14 & 15

Game viewing in the eastern part of Etosha National Park
Etosha's primary allure lies in its remarkable variety of habitats and the exceptional opportunities it offers for capturing photographs and observing wildlife

Day 16

Leopards at the Africat Foundation
Leopard search, brown hyenas in the twilight, very good information and opportunities to photograph wild predators on educational game drives.

Day 17

Windhoek & Departure
We will definitely reunite soon, and I can assure you, once you've experienced Africa, it will always hold a special place in your heart, beckoning you to return!

Detailed itinerary

Logistics @ arrival

Locate you as you enter the airport’s arrival hall – you’re eager to assist you.
Our team at Leaflove Safari will efficiently manage and oversee the vehicle handover, including insurance logistics.
You’ll receive your vouchers, maps, a detailed route description, and, of course, a warm welcome package.
Additionally, you’ll equip you with a GPS device featuring pre-programmed routes in the ‘Tracks 4 Africa’ system!

Day 1

1 night at a recreational lodge located near Windhoek.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast

natural:

We have chosen a comfortable lodge with a quiet location in the middle of the acacia savannah for you. Game drives and nature walks are well possible or you can relax at the pool with a magnificent view into the acacia savannah.

 classic:

You will get south of Windhoek amidst a beautiful range of mountains at this beautiful lodge, with spa area and fantastic views, very comfortable to relax or even take your first game drive or hike in wildlife rich Africa.

luxury:

On the small, but very fine, guest farm Voigtland, where the giraffes eat out of your hand while enjoying coffee & cake, you will be personally welcomed and cared for. Charmingly, the afternoon Coffee-time is now called “High Tea with Giraffes”.

Acacia savanna of the central plateau called Khomas Highland

60 km – approx. 1 hour driving time

Welcome to Namibia! Long driving distances are not recommended after a tiring overnight flight, and you may want to do some shopping or sightseeing in Windhoek after picking up your rental car. Therefore, it is pleasant to reach the first overnight accommodation shortly after your arrival, considering Namibian distances. At the lodge, you can relax beautifully and take your first nature walks or join a game drive in the afternoon, to enjoy your first African mammal and bird sightings.

A scenic drive through the central highlands, locally called the “Khomas Highland”, opens up the wide geological variety found in Namibia. Most of southern Namibia is covered by enormous sandstone layers, ripped through by basaltic ridges and decorated by bulbous granite outcrops.

Days 2 & 3

2 nights at a selected lodge in the middle of the linear dune landscape of the Kalahari.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast2 x locally guided game drives into the linear dunes, where you can see some animals as well as beautiful landscapes and diverse bird life.

natural:

On a rustic designed but individual lodge you are accommodated comfortably and in a separate bungalow. We chose this lodge because it was small and not disturbing in the nature there. Instead of cutting down the trees, they have built around them – which is pleasing.

classic:

The lodge scores with various good accommodation options and very good activities, where a range of different animals can be seen. We have chosen the dune bungalow with a fantastic view over the Kalahari.

luxury:

Very high quality and tastefully furnished, this lodge is always highly recommended. Very impressive game drives on a vast nature reserve.

Linear Dunes of the Kalahari

310 km – approx. 3,5 hour driving time

The Kalahari is an endless sea of red sand, carved up by ephemeral rivers with high camelthorn trees – beautiful! Kgalagadi means waterless, maybe that’s why only the Bushmen dared to settle there. As you drive through the acacia savanna of the central plateau until you reach the various linear dune landscapes, rough limestone reefs and wide salt pans of the Kalahari. The Kalahari is a paradise for photographers with its linear dune landscapes and camel thorn forests, especially sunrises and sunrises fascinate every nature lover.
Gigantic Sociable Weaver nests literally cover ancient camel thorn acacias along the way
– with a bit of luck you might even see a Cape Cobra, as they love to raid the nests of this communal bird.

Additional Days for hikers?

2 nights at the “bull’s head” of the Naukluft on a very well run guest farm.

inclusive:

Class: Luxury Room
Dinner, bed and breakfast

Remark:

In this magnificent locale, the hiking trails into the mountains stretch over considerable distances. However, we’ve meticulously curated a diverse range of activities to cater to every guest’s preferences. If hiking isn’t your cup of tea, rest assured that you can arrange thrilling mountain excursions with expert drivers at your disposal.

Hiking the Naukluft

310 km – approx. 3,5 hour driving time

Today, your itinerary leads you to the Naukluft Mountains, a stunning realm composed of intricately folded and contorted dolomite, granite, and a myriad of captivating Tufa formations. Your journey unfolds on foot as you set out to explore this enthralling terrain.
Though the Naukluft Mountains may initially appear as a harsh, arid, and inhospitable expanse, but this region is a sanctuary teeming with avian life and an array of fascinating plant species.

Leaflove Safari regards the Naukluft Mountains as a hidden natural gem. Amidst this enchanting botany, you’ll encounter Quiver trees, the distinctive elephant’s feet, the hardy resurrection bush, also known as bushman’s tea, and the intriguing bushman’s candles. As you traverse the rugged slopes, you may catch sight of the regal Hartmann mountain zebras, the majestic greater kudus, and the agile Klipspringer, gracefully perched upon the steep rocky terrain. Meanwhile, a captivating variety of fig species will beckon the delightful Rosy-faced lovebirds to their succulent offerings.
For a refreshing pause, you can dip your weary feet into the crystal-clear spring waters.

Additional Days on our Farm?

2 nights retreat at Leaflove Safari’s exclusive game and nature reserve, nestled in charming guest rooms. Please note, this stay is exclusively reserved for Leaflove Safari clients.

Step into the historic family farm, now in its 5th generation, belonging to the Voigts von Schütz family. Embodying ecological principles, nature-friendly farming, and a deep affection for the rugged semi-desert landscape, this farm truly embodies the essence of Namibia.

inclusive:

Overnight stay and supported self-catering (filled fridge)

Farm Nomtsas, the Leaflove Safari Nature Protectorate

Heino Voigts’ passion for nature and idealism inspired him to return the space that his forefathers had taken from it. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy thrives under our care in this pristine African corner, exclusively yours to savour – no other tourists in sight!

Look out for giraffes, diverse antelope, warthogs, and an array of semi-desert birdlife. Red sediment winds through vast, barren landscapes, linked by linear oases and ephemeral rivers, providing unexpected sustenance and shelter for wildlife.
Ornithologists spot Sclater’s larks, botanists discover Hoodias, geologists collect limonite cubes, and photographers capture the sun setting behind giraffes. There’s time for everything.

We, Leaflove Safari, cherish this approximately 22,000 ha wilderness area, featuring several shallow reservoirs. If the rains have been generous, spend your day here, observing the abundant water and savannah birds.

Additional Days „high end“?

2 nights amid the stunning dune wilderness of Namib Rand Nature Reserve at your exceptionally exclusive lodge.

inclusive:

Full board
Explore the mesmerizing dune valleys of Namib Rand Nature Reserve with your ecologically sound game drives. Hop aboard open jeeps guided by your skilled team, and embark on a breathtaking journey through this remarkable landscape

Namib Rand Nature Reserve

153 km – approx. 2 hour driving time

Vast red dune valleys carpeted in golden grass stretch as far as the eye can see…
Spanning 202,200 hectares, the Namib Rand Nature Reserve ranks among Africa’s largest private reserves and stands as a pinnacle of natural beauty!

Under Stephan Brückner’s stewardship, this haven caters to landscape enthusiasts and nature aficionados, offering top-notch accommodations, impeccable service, eco-friendly practices, and exquisite cuisine.

The red-orange dunes of the Namib interlace with colossal inselbergs, while thousands of “fairycircles” adorn the endless dune valleys, leaving your guests breathless.

This sanctuary is home to numerous oryx antelope, springbok, mountain zebra, giraffes, and even hyenas, alongside countless small creatures.
In all sincerity, you declare: “Until you’ve witnessed the Namib Rand Nature Reserve, you haven’t truly experienced a quintessential, and perhaps the most beautiful, facet of the Namib dune world!”

: Oryx im Sonnenuntergang im Rand Rand Naturreservat mit Nubib Bergen im Hintergrund

: Die Wolwedans Dunes Lodge liegt wunderbar in der Dünenwelt der Namib eingenistet.

: Impressions of the dune drive to the Namib Rand area of Wolwedans Lodges.

: Die Dancing White Lady,Leucorchestris arenicola, ist eine in der namibischen Wüste endemische Spinnenart aus der Familie der Riesenkrabbenspinnen (Sparassidae)

: Impressionen der Dünenfahrt in das Gebiet des Namib Rand der Wolwedans Lodges.

: Die Dünenlerche als einziger Endemit Namibias

Days 4 & 5

1 night at a premium lodge nestled within Namib-Naukluft Park, granting you exclusive access to the majestic dunes before or during the magical sunrise (classic & luxury only).
1 night in the fantastic landscapes of Gaub Canyon near the Rotstock mountain range.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast

natural:

Near the entrance to Namib-Naukluft Park, you’ll find a sizeable lodge renowned for its superb buffet and convenient access to Sossusvlei. Here, guests can book a variety of activities and be right in the heart of all the “dune action.” However, there’s a drawback – the park only opens at sunrise, resulting in a delay of up to an hour to reach the vlei. This means you’ll be traveling in the midst of the tourist rush and might not arrive at the vlei until at least an hour after sunrise.
On the second night, you’ll experience rustic lodging nestled amidst the eroded hills of Gaub, offering a breathtaking view.

classic:

Within Namib-Naukluft Park, there are just two lodges, and you’ve chosen the superior one for your stay. You’ll enjoy the privilege of driving to Sossusvlei well before sunrise and staying until the late afternoon sunset, allowing you to explore in the best light without the crowds of tourists.
On the second night, you’ll be accommodated near the striking Rotstock Mountains at an architecturally intriguing lodge known for its “pool overlooking the Namib,” promising a memorable and picturesque experience.

luxury:

You’ll be staying at an exceptional, individually curated lodge on a private concession that grants you the exclusive opportunity for a guided game drive on a private road to Sossusvlei. There is no lodge closer to Sossusvlei than this one, although it’s important to note that you will arrive at Sossusvlei approximately 30 minutes after sunrise!

Dune landscapes at Sossusvlei, the Sesriem Canyon, and stunning desert vistas

91 km – approx. 1 hour driving time to Lodge &
120 km into the Vley

After an early start, your journey takes you to Sossusvlei, a destination that’s on every traveler’s must-see list, known for being the birthplace of the world’s tallest dunes. As the sun rises, it bathes the remarkable red dunes in a magical light, revealing their breathtaking beauty.

Sossusvlei, nestled at the end of the Tsauchab River, is a unique floral paradise in the heart of the arid Namib Desert, surrounded by dunes that can soar up to 300 meters high. As you explore the winding valleys, you gain insight into the remarkable adaptations that allow various organisms to thrive in this harsh desert environment. And when you finally reach the summit of these dunes, the panoramic view is truly spectacular, making the challenging hike well worth the effort.
Not too far from Sossusvlei lies the striking Sesriem Canyon, a deep and narrow gorge sculpted over countless years by the forces of deposition and erosion. In bygone days, ox-cart drivers had to connect six oars to draw water from this canyon, giving it the name “Sesriem.” The geological history and stunning scenery of this area are truly eye-opening, leaving most visitors eager to return.

Recommendation:

Glide over the Namib dune world in a hot air balloon

Some experiences are simply a must! In the face of the region’s unpredictable weather, Namib Sky’s hot air balloons gracefully ascend amid the dunes and Huns mountains, gracing the gravel flats of the Tsauchab. This journey offers a breathtaking perspective of the dunes, mountains, and the enchanting tapestry of vibrant landscapes as they come alive in the morning light
If you would like a balloon ride, it would make sense to extend the trip here by one day!

Days 6 & 7

2 nights in a safe accommodation in Swakopmund, tested and selected for you.

inclusive:

Bed and breakfast

not included:

Dinner (there are several restaurants in Swakopmund, you will be happy to advise you and reserve a table for you…) While there are several excellent establishments in the area offering a diverse range of freshly caught fish and delectable seafood, don’t overlook the exceptional roast pork available here.

natural:

small hotel with a simple yet charming guest-house character, view on the ocean, central location, and a real good breakfast. Standard room.

classic:

a good hotel very centrally located to the city centre and Atlantic Ocean – Junior Suite rooms
or
Stay at a welcoming guesthouse located approximately 1km from the city center, nestled near the sea, where you’ll be hosted by our Italian friend Silvio and his wife Esbi. Experience the comfort of bright rooms and an open and inviting atmosphere.

luxury:

a good hotel directly on the pier overlooking the Atlantic Ocean – Luxury Suite. This hotel is rated as the best hotel in Swakopmund and has three excellent restaurants, very safe and comfortable.

Activities around Swakopmund:

Explore Walvis Bay, just 30 km south of Swakopmund, with its stunning 11,000 ha lagoon—a natural wonderland. Witness thousands of seabirds, seals, dolphins, and occasional whales and sunfish at this World Heritage Site.

For an indulgent experience, embark on a boat cruise, often on spacious catamarans, where you can savour fresh oysters, snacks, and champagne. Watch seals playfully jumping onto the boat while pelicans feed from your hand.
To get even closer to nature, consider a kayak tour on the lagoon.
Explore Swakopmund’s history with a knowledgeable local on a guided town stroll—a highly recommended activity.
Take in breathtaking sights on a sightseeing flight over Namibia’s dune and desert landscapes, with a 2 to 2.5-hour option.
Dive deeper into the desert’s wonders with an informative dune drive focusing on the “Little Five”—a collection of desert creatures including reptiles, insects, spiders, and birds.
For an exhilarating but rewarding adventure, try a fatbike ride with Swakop Fatbike Tours. Enjoy a comfortable ride through the captivating dune landscape.

The road to Swakopmund…oldest desert to the majestic Atlantic Ocean…

230 km – approx. 3 hour driving time

Before you lies the vast expanse of Namib’s gravel plains, occasionally punctuated by distant mountains and shimmering horizons. As you traverse the long, straight roads, sporadic dust plumes emerge, signifying your journey through, not your destination.
We opt for detours, venturing through sculpted granite landscapes, ancient erosion valleys, and dry riverbeds. In this eerily tranquil realm, you often encounter giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and, if fortune favours you, even cheetahs.

Your path leads you to the cave of two geologists, chronicled in the book “The Sheltering Desert.” For this excursion, please don sturdy hiking boots.

En route, you discover treasures like the world-famous “Welwitschia mirabilis,” a 1500-year-old wonder, lichen fields, and the Swakop River’s erosion valley, aptly nicknamed the “moonscape.”
Swakopmund, a charming coastal town, provides opportunities for leisurely strolls, sunbathing (weather permitting), exploration of both modern and colonial landmarks, and indulging in coffee. Private coffee roasteries, a renowned gin distillery, a vibrant art scene, and an unmistakable sense of relaxation tempt you to extend your stay.
Notably, the town boasts the best-maintained private museum in the country, an oceanarium, a crystal gallery, and a charming bathing spot you affectionately call the “Mole.”

: Auf der C14 ist immer starker touristischer Verkehr.

: grüne Landschaften zwischen Gaub und Kuiseb im März 2022

: Ohrenrobben sind häufig an der namibischen Küste.

: Welwitschia mirabilis, auch W.bainesii genannt, ist ein lebendes Fossil der Wüstenbotanik Namibias

: In Swakopmund sind wunderschöne historische Gebäude in geschmackvollen Farben zu bewundern.

: Die Landungsbrücke Swakopmunds ist ein historischen Denkmal der deutschen Kolonialzeit.

: In Swakopmund sind wunderschöne historische Gebäude in geschmackvollen Farben zu bewundern.

: In Swakopmund sind wunderschöne historische Gebäude in geschmackvollen Farben zu bewundern.

Days 8 & 9

2 nights in a fairytale landscape surrounded by monstrous granite plutons in a selected lodge

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast

natural:

The Erongo is most beautiful around “Ameib”. Hike the Bulls Party, a fantastic granite ball cluster, and find famous rock paintings at Phillip’s Cave. We have chosen the farm-style guesthouse for you nearby. The next day you will be accommodated in a practical and comfortably furnished tented chalet, which offers good access to the bushmen in the area.

classic:

On the first evening you have chosen a strategically located beautiful lodge in the middle of the granite mountains for you, as you have wonderful hiking opportunities and good access to the bushmen of the area. On the second evening you prefer a rustic-natural lodge in the middle of the Erongo with wonderful hiking opportunities, game and bird watching.

luxury:

High up on the Erongo lies this very small and highly individual lodge with very good food, fantastic views and personal attention. The access roads to the Bushmen are a few kilometres further, but the quality of the lodge is uniquely great.

Spitzkoppe & the mighty Erongo

160 km – approx. 2 hour driving time &

 165 km – approx. 2 hour driving time

Even from a distance, Namibia’s best-known “inselberg”, the Spitzkoppe, stands out like a natural monument, protruding from the flat gravel surface of the Namib.

San Bushmen, or so you all like to believe, have painted clearly visible scenarios of hunting and wildlife on the smooth granite walls. The landscape looks like a fairytale and offers wonderful photographic opportunities.

The gigantic granite spheres of the Erongo are impressive, as the visitor feels literally “dwarfed” between the towering rock faces of these bulbous magma mountains. Some legendary rock paintings, semi-endemic bird species and a remarkable semi-desert flora await the hiker or walker here..

Bushman Walk (optional): Here you meet authentic Bushmen who will be happy to open your eyes to their world on a short walk. You will learn how they set traps, use herbal remedies and go hunting with poisoned arrows. You will also see how a fire can easily be lit in this great semi-desert and how pretty jewellery can be made from ostrich eggs and colourful seeds.

Days 10 & 11

2 overnight stays amidst exemplary gigantic granite boulders at a specially chosen lodge

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast
Guided tour to the petroglyphs at Twyfelfontein
Guided (you know your way around) four-wheel drive game drive into the dry river Awa-Huab to look for desert elephants.

natural:

The lodges in this fascinating landscape are actually all very comfortable. We have chosen a rustic but comfortable tented lodge for you, which is very centrally located and built into a pretty landscape.

Classic & luxury:

At a fantastically situated, extremely stylish lodge, you have chosen a Standard view room for the classic version; the luxury version enjoys a Luxury View Room or the Mountain Suite. Every exclusive and tastefully furnished room has its own view of this fantastic landscape. The “Sundowner – Point” is said to offer the most beautiful sundowner in Namibia… here cocktails and small delicacies are also served at sunset.

Twyfelfontein

230 km – approx. 3h driving time

The following days will be spent in an area of probably the greatest geological Variety found in Africa, the Damaraland. The main attraction at Twyfelfontein (doubtful spring) is its large gallery of rock art, the most extensive collection of rock-engravings found in Africa. Some engravings are said to be over 6000 years of age. The Petrified Forest reminds you of great central African floods, transporting very large trees over hundreds of miles and depositing them in thick layers of mud… Millions of years, void of any oxygen and under tons of pressure led to a perfect petrification of these historical trees. The scattered trunks of rock are an amazing sight of geological history. You also find the burnt mountain and a small gorge with some basaltic organ pipes in this area.

The dry river Huab finds its way west through this geologically striking desert area. The gigantic Ana trees, also called “winter thorn acacias”, produce red pods which are readily eaten by desert-dwelling elephants. We have booked an locally guided off-road trip for you to go and find them.…

2 additional days in Damaraland?

2 nights in high quality safari bungalows with views of the Etendeka Mountains and the palm grove of the Uniab River.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast

optional activities:

„Rhino – tracking” full day excursion
Locally guided Sundowner game drive
Locally Guided walks

Damaraland & Etendeka

115 km – approx. 1.4 h driving time

Nestled within the strikingly dark red basaltic Etendeka Formation of Damaraland, one discovers the serene oasis of Palmwag Spring amidst lush reeds and majestic Makalani palms. This water source serves as a magnet for a remarkable array of desert-dwelling wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and various antelope species such as springbok and oryx. Amidst a backdrop of thousands of olive-green Euphorbias, keen observers may be fortunate enough to encounter the endemic Hartmann’s mountain zebra.
Embarking on an exploratory journey through the Palmwag concession, you embark on a quest to the diverse avian life, including the elusive Benguela Long-billed Lark and the regal Rüppell’s Korhaan.

For an immersive experience, consider joining a locally guided day tour to the critically endangered black rhinoceros, commonly known as the hook-lipped rhino. Along this journey, nature enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to encounter other splendid game species such as giraffes and the majestic Greater Kudu. Occasionally, the road may even reveal the elusive presence of desert elephants and, on rare occasions, the elusive desert lions.

2 additional days Etosha West?

2 nights at a nature lodge on the Mudorib Dry River. The lodge is situated in the Mopane savannah surrounded by gigantic winter thorn acacias, whose pods make good elephant food.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast
2x locally guided game drive

Hobatere Nature Reserve in Damaraland

204 km – approx. 3 hour driving time

A truly “untouched” nature, where wildlife can still follow the daily rhythm of Africa. Expect encounters with endemic Hartmann’s mountain zebra, numerous antelope and giraffe. Lions, leopards, cheetahs and elephants like to roam this area, being able to observe them is always a matter of luck (and a little experience).
We also like to use this area due to its prolific birdlife, as Bare-cheeked Babbler, Little Sparrowhawk and Scops Owl can already be found in the garden here.
Guided Night drives, with lesser nocturnal species being the centre of attention, deliver much unexpected sightings; Springhare, Genets, Nightjars, Cape and Bat eared Foxes and even the elusive Aardvark are frequently seen here.

You will drive through the Westpark on your day of departure, an absolute highlight which is only possible for a few tourists. Take packed lunches with you and take your time at the waterholes to observe the wildlife, often as the only one(s)

Days 12 & 13

2 nights in the central area of the National Park at a good private lodge outside the park or in a parastatal Waterhole Chalet directly at the renown Okaukuejo Waterhole

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast

natural:

All private lodges in the central area are very large and touristy, but since most time is spent in the park, this does not matter for many. We chose a lively, cheap and good lodge with all comforts here.

classic:

Although Okaukuejo also offers cheaper double rooms, you have chosen and charged for the better chalets here. Please expect higher visitor numbers here and exercise some tolerance with accommodation and service… the location is very suitable for wildlife viewing but unfortunately also very touristy.

luxury:

If you want to distance yourself from the crowds and prefer better accommodation, you should definitely rather go for one of your selected smaller high-end lodges outside the park!

Game drives:

You can easily drive in the park with your rental car and observe animals as you please. However, the lodges also offer game drives in open safari vehicles, which can provide the advantage of additional animal information and observations, as the local guides are knowledgeable, and you are certainly “going to see more“.

Etosha National Park – Central

210 km – approx. 5 hour driving time (slowly through the Park)

Etosha National Park stands out as one of Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuaries, despite its arid environment. At the heart of the park lies a vast 4,000 km² salt clay pan, with a number of artesian “contact springs” along its southern perimeter. It is at these springs that a remarkable congregation of diverse wildlife occurs, particularly during drier and warmer seasons.
With a stroke of luck and a keen eye, you may even experience the ultimate thrill of observing magnificent pachyderms and formidable predatory cats in their natural habitat. In these instances, patience and early morning departures are often handsomely rewarded.
The mosaic of ecosystems ensures that every journey through the park is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Days 14 & 15

2 nights at a good lodge situated in the eastern area, directly adjacent to the park.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast

natural:

The private lodges in the eastern area are all good. We chose a great, but somewhat cheaper bush camp here

 classic:

An excellent quality lodge in the middle of the dry blood fruit forest.

luxury:

You will be accommodated in a fantastic villa in the middle of the blood fruit dry-forest, highly individual and undisturbed. The villa is often used as a honeymoon suite.

Etosha National Park – East

170km – approx. 5 h driving time (slowly through the park)

Etosha’s primary allure lies in its remarkable variety of habitats and the exceptional opportunities it offers for capturing photographs and observing wildlife. Here, you can encounter a diverse array of animals, including springbok, zebra, brindled gnu, giraffe, hartebeest, steenbok, the Damara dik-dik, black-faced impala, and, with a touch of luck, even elephants, lions, leopards, and cheetahs might grace your path. Keep in mind that this is Africa, where tracking game is a blend of skill and chance, and patience is key.

The avian population in Etosha is not just good; it’s truly exceptional. Rest assured, you will make sure to pause and appreciate the vibrant birdlife that thrives here.

Day 16

1 night at one of the Okonjima Private Lodges, where you’ll find comfortable and tastefully decorated accommodations.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast
1x game drive in open game vehicle guided by well-trained rangers.

Africat Foundation – Leopards, Cheetahs & Brown Hyenas

431 km – approx. 5 hour driving time (via Grootfontein)

Today’s route includes a visit to Otjikoto Lake, a fascinating large sinkhole with uncharted depths, exuding an air of mystery and beauty.

For those seeking unique diversions and willing to start their day early, Tsumeb Museum houses impressive collections of large, naturally valuable crystals and artefacts from the First World War, including cannons. A bit off the beaten path, you’ll also discover the awe-inspiring Hoba meteorite, the largest visible meteorite on Earth.

your ultimate destination today is the “Africat Foundation,” a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and research of brown hyenas and various wild cats, particularly cheetahs and leopards. Here, you’re almost guaranteed to witness the majesty of wild leopards in their natural habitat, alongside a variety of other wildlife, such as white rhinos. Animals roam freely within this vast Nature Reserve, hunting their own prey, offering a unique and immersive experience.

Day 17

Would you like to fly today or tomorrow?!

Many of your guests opt to combine the final leg of their journey with the airport transfer and check-in during the afternoon. However, recognizing that some prefer to explore the city further or minimize the last-day stress, you arrange an extra night in Windhoek or a stylish accommodation near the airport upon request.
Namibia boasts excellent connectivity, with various airlines departing from either Windhoek, the capital, or Walvis Bay, providing flexibility for your travel preferences.
Additionally, some guests choose to enhance their experience with an added component, such as a fly-in to the Caprivi, a visit to the Okavango Delta, or a few days in Cape Town. The choice is entirely yours, and you’re here to accommodate your preferences.

Until we meet again…

224 km – approx. 2.5 h driving time
Transfer: 45 km – approx. 30 min driving time

Heading straight on the north-south route, you will reach Windhoek once again. Unfortunately, your journey ends in Windhoek, and we hope to welcome you in good health and high spirits. After returning the rental car, you will be transported to the airport. Of course, you can still explore the city and, for example, visit the Craft Centre where Namibian artists offer their crafts for sale.

We’re here to assist with booking transfers and any additional logistics you may require, ensuring a seamless experience for your onward journey.

Services included

Rental car:

Services not included

Indicative prices for 2024

Participants per vehicle	Natural	Classic	Luxury
1 Person	$ 5'932.00	$ 6'978.00	$ 12'006.00
2 Persons	$ 4'470.00	$ 5'516.00	$ 10'577.00
3 Persons	$ 3'983.00	$ 5'029.00	$ 10'057.00
4 Persons	$ 3'739.00	$ 4'785.00	$ 9'815.00
Single room supplement	$ 563.00	$ 887.00	$ 2'888.00

We are happy to answer frequently asked questions in advance

At what time of year is this trip suitable?

This trip is designed for a wide range of interest and you will have the correct weather for your observations in different places at different times of the year. If you are particularly interested in a lot of wildlife viewing, this trip would be ideal from May to November.

I want to get to know Namibia broadly, is this trip right for me?

This is an all-rounder tour where you will experience new impressions and almost all the main sights of Namibia every day. All routes are easy to navigate and safe to drive.

We'd like to include Fishriver Canyon...?

You need to add at least 4 days for an extended route to the canyon if you want to experience this safely and stress-free. Gladly also 6 days for an extended southern loop including Lüderitz Bay.

An offer especially for you! Simply let us know your change requests in this form.

send us a non-binding enquiry for 'Namibian Wonders', a self-drive Safari

This Safari was last updated on 17. April 2024 @ 18:26.

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