12 Day Self-Drive Northern Namibia Safari

Upon arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to Windhoek, collect your rental car and receive a briefing on driving in Namibia. A representative will brief you on your itinerary. Afterward, you can explore Windhoek’s attractions, such as the historic Christuskirche, the Independence Memorial Museum with panoramic city views, and the tranquil Parliament Gardens. Windhoek also offers excellent dining options, including The Stellenbosch Wine Bar, Joe’s Beerhouse for hearty Namibian fare, and The Social for global fusion cuisine, among others. Included: Breakfast. Accommodation: The Vineyard

At 8am you begin your journey southward as you travel through the picturesque cattle farming regions. The road takes you through Nauchas. Pausing at the top of the Spreetshoogte Pass, one of Namibia’s most scenic viewpoints, to admire the breathtaking panorama of the desert stretching endlessly below. Descending the steep pass, soon arriving at Solitaire, a charming and remote rest stop known for its quirky character and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you can stretch your legs, grab a refreshment, or sample the famous apple crumble pie that has become a must-try treat for travellers in the area. From Solitaire, continue the final 80 km toward Sesriem, where our lodge awaits. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll have time to unwind and take in the tranquil desert environment, preparing for the adventures ahead. Included: Breakfast, Lunch pack and dinner. Accommodation: Sossusvlei Lodge

Depart the lodge just before sunrise. Drive the 54 km into the iconic Dune Sea, passing the famous Dune 45, and continue to the 4x4 parking area. Here, engage 4x4 mode to navigate the final 5 km of sandy terrain leading to Deadvlei. Marvel at the surreal landscape of 900-year-old fossilized trees set against a backdrop of bright white clay, deep orange dunes, and vibrant blue skies. Adventurers can challenge themselves with a climb up one of the towering dunes, reaching up to 355 meters, to enjoy sweeping views of the desert. Continue a short distance to Sossusvlei, where you can explore the shifting sands and, during the rainy season, witness the area transform into a lush oasis teeming with birdlife and wildlife. As the day warms, return to the lodge for a late lunch and some well-deserved relaxation. In the afternoon, take a leisurely visit to Sesriem Canyon, a fascinating natural wonder shaped by centuries of erosion, before winding down for the evening at your own pace. Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Accommodation: Sossusvlei Lodge

Departing at 8:00 AM, you’ll have ample time to enjoy scenic stops along the way. Your first stop is Solitaire again, just 83 km into the drive. Continuing on the C14, pause to admire iconic landmarks such as the Tropic of Capricorn, the Gaub Pass, and the Kuiseb Pass, each showcasing stunning desert vistas. Reach Walvis Bay by early afternoon and stop at the Walvis Bay Yacht Club to plan tomorrow’s activities. Consider options like a dolphin boat cruise, an adventurous 4x4 excursion to Sandwich Harbour. From Walvis Bay, a short 35 km coastal drive brings you to Swakopmund, where you’ll settle into your guesthouse for a two-night stay. This charming coastal town boasts excellent dining options, with the Jetty Restaurant being a standout choice. Included: Breakfast and Lunch pack. Accommodation: Cornerstone Guesthouse

Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure in Swakopmund. You can explore the craft market, admire the stunning exhibits at the Crystal Gallery, take a stroll along the historic Jetty, or visit the Aquarium. For a more laid-back day, relax on the safe and serene beaches or savour the town’s diverse culinary scene. For a touch of adventure, consider a dolphin cruise or a guided tour to Sandwich Harbour in nearby Walvis Bay. Meals are at your own expense, with excellent dining options such as The Brauhaus, The Tug, or Blue Grass providing a variety of delicious choices. Included:Breakfast. Accommodation: Cornerstone Guesthouse

Our first stop is at the unique lichen fields just north of Henties Bay, where you can admire the delicate, slow-growing lichens thriving in this arid environment. Continuing up the Skeleton Coast, we visit the Cape Cross Seal Colony, home to thousands of Cape fur seals. As we move along the coast, we encounter the eerie yet intriguing Benguela Eagle shipwreck, a reminder of the many vessels claimed by the treacherous conditions of the Skeleton Coast. Nearby, the old oil rig stands as another haunting symbol of the region's history. Turning inland, we make a stop to see the Welwitschia mirabilis, an ancient plant unique to Namibia and Angola. By late afternoon, we arrive at our lodge in the heart of Damaraland, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s incredible discoveries. Included: Breakfast, Lunch pack and dinner. Accommodation: Twyfelfontein Lodge

After an early morning breakfast, we set off for the short drive to the world-renowned Twyfelfontein, home to the famous Bushman rock
engravings. A local guide will take you through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore the largest concentration of
petroglyphs in the world. After a leisurely walk through Twyfelfontein, we continue toward Etosha National Park, with a brief stop at the
Petrified Forest along the way. We arrive at our lodge in the late afternoon, where you can unwind with a refreshing swim before enjoying an early dinner. Included: Breakfast, lunch pack and dinner. Accommodation: Taleni Etosha Village

Enjoy a full day of exploration in Etosha National Park at your own pace, driving through the park from the Anderson Gate to the Von Lindequest Gate. Along the way, stop at various watering holes to observe the incredible wildlife that inhabits the park. Plan a leisurely lunch at the Halali Rest Camp, with meals at your own expense. In the late afternoon, head toward the Namutoni Rest Camp, known for its vibrant wildlife activity. From Namutoni, exit the park through Von Lindequest Gate and take a short drive to Onguma Bush Camp, where you can unwind and settle in for the evening. Included: Breakfast and Dinner. Accommodation: Onguma Bush Camp

Today offers a full day of adventure with open-vehicle game drives led by a professional guide, giving you the opportunity to spot wildlife you may have missed the previous day. Your day starts with a sunrise departure into Etosha National Park. The guide will focus on the eastern side of the park, stopping at watering holes for memorable wildlife sightings. After a midday lunch back at the lodge, you’ll have the afternoon free to relax. If you’d like to explore the park further, you can either head out in your own vehicle or book an afternoon open-vehicle game drive or a property sunset drive at your own expense. Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Accommodation: Onguma Bush Camp

This morning, the journey takes you along the B1, passing through the town of Tsumeb, renowned for its rich copper mines and extensive
underground water reserves. Tsumeb is home to a fascinating museum that highlights the history of the mine, as well as exhibits featuring WWI cannons recovered from Otjokoto Lake. Continuing south towards Otjiwarongo, you'll arrive at your lodge by mid-afternoon, giving you time to relax or enjoy one of the activities offered at the lodge. Included: Breakfast, lunch pack and dinner. Accommodation: Frans Indongo Lodge

Begin your day early with your bags packed and ready for an included guided Cheetah Run excursion. You’ll return to the lodge by 10:30 AM,
leaving plenty of time to continue your journey. Today, travel south, passing through the charming town of Otjiwarongo on your way to Okahandja. The smooth, tarred roads ensure a comfortable drive. Once in Okahandja, you’ll have some free time to explore the Craft Market and perhaps enjoy a refreshing drink at Dede’s Place. Lunch packs will be provided, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely meal along the way. You’ll arrive back at your lodge in Windhoek by mid-afternoon, with plenty of time to relax and unwind before the evening. While dinner is not included, we highly recommend visiting Joe’s Beerhouse for your final culinary experience in Namibia. Included: Breakfast and Lunch pack. Accommodation: The Vineyard

Depending on your departure time, you will return your vehicle to the Car Hire office. Please remember to refuel the tank to avoid any extra charges. Once the handover is complete, the Car Hire company will arrange a transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive in time for your flight. Included: Breakfast