13 Day Exploring Namibia Group Tour (classic)
Countries: Namibia
Destinations: Kalahari , Fish River Canyon , Namib Desert , Swakopmund , Damaraland , Etosha National Park
Group Size: 16
Duration (days): 13
Number of Adults: 16
Number of Children: 0
The classic Namibian Safari. This is an introduction to the major highlights Namibia has to offer. The contrasting landscapes of the country, including the awe-inspiring Fish River Canyon, the surreal Namib Desert and the majestic mountain ranges in Damaraland mixed with the vibrant cultures that live there and the amazing wildlife in the national parks and conservancies. This safari will leave you engrossed in Namibia.
Itinerary Outline
| Day | Location | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kalahari | Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge |
| 2 | Fish River Canyon | Canyon Village |
| 3 | Namib Desert | Luderitz Nest Hotel |
| 4 | Namib Desert | The Elegant Desert Lodge |
| 5 | Namib Desert | The Elegant Desert Lodge |
| 6 | Swakopmund | Hansa Hotel |
| 7 | Swakopmund | Hansa Hotel |
| 8 | Damaraland | Ondjamba Hills |
| 9 | Damaraland | Ondjamba Hills |
| 10 | Etosha National Park | Etosha Safari Camp |
| 11 | Etosha National Park | Etosha Safari Camp |
| 12 | Etosha National Park | La Rochelle Lodge |
| 13 | Day of Departure |
Day 1 : Kalahari
Leaving Windhoek, we travel into the largest sand mass on Earth, the Kalahari Desert. The Kalahari is a vast semi-desert of wind-blown sand held by a sparse mantle of thorn scrub making it the most extensive continuous stretch of sand covering 9 African countries. Unlike other true deserts, the Kalahari does receive erratic rainfall. For many therefor "thirstland” is a more fitting description. Lacking permanent surface water, the Kalahari is a challenging place to live except for those who have adapted to not only survive but flourish here. The Bushmen refer to it as the "Soul of the World", an emotive description for this area! With its deep red dunes and endless grass plains interspersed with acacia’s and shrubs, it is still home to a surprisingly large amount of specially adapted wildlife. Enjoy the opportunity to experience the red dunes, wildlife, and plants, in this desert environment on an optional nature drive.
Namibia
Out-of-this-world landscapes and panoramas make Namibia a photographer's dream destination. While not as much of a wildlife destination as other countries, Namibia makes up for this with phenomenal scenery, cultures and activities.
Namibia is a desolate and largely uninhabitable country, well-known mainly for its deserts and coastline. However, there is far more to the destination.
Namibia is home to some fascinating people, and in the right season, can provide you with some of the best game viewing on the continent.
When travelling Namibia, the distances are vast, and often you will go without seeing another vehicle, or person, for hours.
Around every bend of the road awaits another breathtaking landscape, with wide open spaces and incredible colours giving you photo opportunities at all times of day.
Below are a few of the popular areas frequented by travellers to Namibia, and they are places which will remain in your memories forever:
Kalahari
The Kalahari Desert in Namibia is often overshadowed by the more popular Namib Desert. However, a holiday in the Kalahari offers a completely unique experience. Travelers who venture into the Kalahari will discover stunning landscapes with red sand dunes that can turn green during the summer, fascinating plant life, diverse wildlife, and a glimpse into the lives of the San/Bushmen.
The iconic red sand dunes are a hallmark of the Kalahari Desert in Namibia. Another notable feature from Namibia’s Kalahari is the Kalahari salt, available in exclusive food stores. Both the salt and the red sand dunes are special due to their mineral content, particularly iron oxide in the sand, which causes the sand to rust and creates the striking red dunes visible in the southern Kalahari.
Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge
“Here at Camelthorn Kalahari lodge, I became one with nature.”
The Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge is aptly named as it finds itself between two sand dunes in an area peppered with Camelthorn trees which are endemic to this region.
The 12 rondavel-style thatched huts are sparsely set against a backdrop of red dune sands, yellow grasses, piercing blue skies and the greens and browns of the wide-spread Camelthorn and Acacia trees.
The 12 rooms are smaller than those at Zebra lodge but are styled the same way with crisp white linen on comfortable beds. The San-inspired décor compliments this stylish yet rustic style. The en-suite bathrooms are fitted with a large shower, air conditioning and a tea and coffee station. This lodge is designed to cater for the more young at heart and the rooms are therefore at an adequate distance from one another. Each rondavel has a small stone patio from which the captivating scenes of the Kalahari Desert can be taken in.
An inviting, sparkling blue pool which attracts the odd Oryx despite there being a waterhole in close proximity is the first sight to catch your eye as you enter the main area of the lodge. The lounge has comfortable leather seating and is next to the bar that leads to a boma area where large fires are lit and barbecues can be enjoyed at night. An upstairs restaurant overlooking the majestic sights serves an alternative area where sumptuous meals are served. The kitchen is also replenished with organically grown vegetables from the neighbouring farm, Twilight and guests truly enjoy the finest and freshest culinary delights that the Kalahari has to offer.
Guests of the Intu Afrika Game Reserve are encouraged to spend more than one night at the lodge because of the variety of activities with which guests can occupy and enthral themselves with. Guests can explore the neighbouring lodges and choose to have dinner at one of the other lodges or to spoil themselves with the ever popular dune dinner.
All the activities on offer at the Game Reserve can be enjoyed at any of the lodges and the friendly staff efficiently facilitate the client’s desires. So whether it’s a game sunset game drive on an open-air 4×4 vehicle or on a quad bike, or a walk with the Bushman (San) or simply a massage, simply ask, it shall be done.
Day 2 : Fish River Canyon
We continue south through arid and extensive rocky plains. Visiting the unique Garas quiver tree forest where you are welcomed by quirky human-made sculptures of scrap metal which set a contrast to this serene, timeless space with Quiver trees and aloes nestled amongst huge dolerite boulders, stacked mysteriously, the area is also aptly referred to as “Giant’s Playground”. We continue to our lodge, situated in close vicinity to the Fish River Canyon. Here we can explore the area on foot or an optional guided nature drive in the later afternoon highlighting the Quiver trees, rugged landscape and impressive sweeping rock formations.
Canyon Village - Breakfast
Fish River Canyon
The Fish River Canyon - 161 km long, 27 km wide and up to 550m deep - is the second largest canyon worldwide after the Grand Canyon in the USA . The Canyon forms part of the state-run Ais-Ais Richtersveld Transfontier Park.
The Fish River Hiking Trail can be conducted during the months April – September and can be completed within 4 to 5 days, depending on fitness. It covers a length of 85 km and the descent into the Canyon is only allowed for hikers doing the trail. Day-visitors are not allowed to climb into the Canyon.
The Fish River has its source in the eastern parts of the Naukluft Mountains. After about 200 km the river flows into the Hardap Dam.
After being retained by the Hardap Dam, the Fish River does not carry water continuously, but during the rainy season the river might turn into a torrent. During the dry season sporadic pools supply water to many animals.
The Fish River Canyon commences at Seeheim and ends at Ai Ais and the river then flows into the Orange River, the border to South Africa.
Canyon Village
The 42 rooms of Canyon Village lie at the foot of a sweeping rock face in Gondwana Canyon Park, in the middle of a vast rocky landscape.
Although the lodge is modern, a traditional feel comes from a series of beautifully painted murals that depict various scenes from the history and culture of the Bondelswart Nama, the earlier inhabitants of this area.
Well-appointed cottages in the Cape Dutch style afford views of the vast canyon scenery. The thatched main building is built right into the massive granite boulders and houses a restaurant and cosy bar.
Relish the peace and quiet and enjoy the views at the pool with a view.
Canyon Village has 2 sister lodges, the nearby Canyon Lodge and the eccentric Canyon Roadhouse.
Day 3 : Namib Desert
Our morning starts on the edge of the Fish River Canyon where we gaze into this magnificent geological phenomenon. The Fish River Canyon is located in the northern part of the Nama Karoo and is the second largest canyon on earth, featuring a gigantic ravine that measures in total about 160 km long, up to 27 km wide and in places almost 550 meters deep. The Fish River is the longest interior river found in Namibia, but its current flow is just a drop compared with the immense volume of water that poured down its length in ages past. We continue our journey past the Naute dam, where we shortly stop at the Naute Kristall Cellar and Distillery, to taste some of their unique liquors (optional) or simply enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. Proceeding onwards we head towards the coastal town of Lüderitz. On the way to Lüderitz, we stop at Garub, which is the viewing point for the Wild Horses of the Namib Desert. Arriving in Lüderitz we head towards the coastline and take a scenic route along the “Große Bucht”, enjoying the fresh see breeze, while stopping for a quick picnic. Returning to Lüderitz we check into our hotel.
Nest Hotel- Breakfast
Namib Desert
One of the driest places on earth, with some of the world's highest sand dunes, the Namib Desert experience is one which will remain in your memories forever. With the night skies being overwhelmingly pierced with stars, and the sunrises and sunsets casting the most gorgeous colours over the dunes, the Namib will enchant you in many ways.
Stretching about 1 200 kilometres along the west coast of Southern Africa, but only averaging about 70 kilometres in width, the Namib creates the most desolate of coastlines. It is unbelievable that anything can survive in these harsh sands, however, many fascinating creatures and plants eke out an existence from the little resources available.
Amazing too is that San Bushmen have tackled this environment for hundreds of years, and succeeded!
Luderitz Nest Hotel
The award-winning Lüderitz Nest Hotel (est. 1998) is one of Namibia’s favourite hotels and is located directly on the rocks and sea with its own private tidal beach and walk-on jetty – unique in Namibia!
Our competitive rates include a scrumptious full English breakfast in the acclaimed PENGUIN RESTAURANT. We offer complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel for our residents and patrons.
All rooms, suites and public areas are fully renovated and offer direct sea views.
Day 4 : Namib Desert
After an early breakfast, our morning starts with a visit to Kolmanskop ghost town. Kolmanskop is a deserted Diamond Mining Town in the Sperrgebiet National Park. Once an opulent and decadent town, a monument to the Diamond boom and built to last…until the diamonds ran out. Today Kolmanskop stands as a haunting monument to the thriving past, offering visitor’s unique photo motives into a bygone era. We continue across vast open plains, stopping for an optional light lunch (included in the Superior tour) in the countryside town of Helmeringhausen before continuing further north along with the Tiras Mountain range to our lodge in the Namib Desert. We are located close to Sesriem the gateway to Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei and Sesriem Canyon, with some of the highest dunes on Earth towering over the white desert plains. The afternoon can be spent relaxing at the sparkling pool, enjoying the vast open desert plains, or taking part in optional activities offered at the lodge.
The Elegant Desert Lodge - Breakfast
The Elegant Desert Lodge
Our friendly and helpful staff eagerly await to welcome you at The Elegant Desert Lodge.
Situated on the border of the World heritage site of the Namib Desert and only 38km from the gate to Sesriem and Sossusvlei, we offer accommodation in 27 elegantly appointed, air-conditioned rooms. All en-suite, the tasteful and comfortable rooms invite you to recline in the soulful yet liberating atmosphere of the world’s oldest desert.
Our beautiful and tranquil garden - a small oasis in the desert - offers various places to sit and read or just relax. Alternatively, you can enjoy the vistas of the desert plains from the veranda of your own room.
Wake to the multi-coloured light of the splendid desert sunrise. Indulge in the extensive and wholesome breakfast buffet or take the option of a picnic breakfast pack if you need an early start to undertake an adventurous trip to the world famous Sossusvlei. Alternatively simply enjoy the calm serenity at the lodge.
We suggest that you treat yourself to a laidback lunch with a bottle of fine South African wine from our extensive range, handpicked by the owners. In the afternoon you can unwind in our contemporary lounge, breath in the serenity of the lush garden or sunbathe at the sparkling pool. Take a drink at our pool bar and recline to marvel at the sun-drenched desert plains. You might also opt for the scenic drive with spectacular views overlooking the vast gravel plains contrasted with the Tsaris and Naukluft mountain massifs of the Namib Desert.
Namibia is about magnificent sunsets, while sipping on your beverage of choice, before heading off to unwind around the blazing campfire in our African firepit. You might even be fortunate enough to encounter some of the wildlife coming to quench their thirst at the waterhole a few meters away.
For dinner, we have a 4 course set menu, varying daily, that will tickle the taste buds with our Namibian delights. Dinner is served either in the restaurant, or outside under the stars in our garden, depending on the weather.
Day 5 : Namib Desert
The morning demands an early start. Entering the Namib Naukluft National Park shortly after sunrise, the first rays of sunlight paint the mountains of sand into a variety of apricot, red and orange, contrasted against a crisp blue skyline, enrapturing our senses, and providing an opportunity to capture this impressive landscape on film. You will be captivated by the surreal Deadvlei surrounded by some of the highest dunes on earth and Sossusvlei, where the dry Tsauchab River ends abruptly amongst dunes. Take the opportunity to walk up one of these majestic dunes to admire the desert landscape beneath. After this thrilling experience we visit the Sesriem Canyon, a life-sustaining natural phenomenon in the heart of the Namib Desert before returning back to our lodge and cooling off along the swimming pool or with a refreshing drink at one of the quiet retreats located all around the lodge.
The Elegant Desert Lodge –Breakfast
Day 6 : Swakopmund
After breakfast we continue our journey approaching the little settlement of Solitaire on the edge of the Namib Naukluft National Park, feeling like you have arrived in the middle of nowhere, before travelling via the desolate, rolling hills of the Kuiseb Valley towards the Atlantic Ocean. Reaching the coastal harbour town of Walvis Bay, we visit the shallow lagoon, one of the most important wetland areas on the African continent and a RAMSAR World Heritage Site. Over 80% of Africa’s lesser flamingos breed in this lagoon and present a breath-taking picture when they appear in groups. Continuing along the scenic route between the dune belt and the Atlantic Ocean we reach Swakopmund, where the rest of the day is spent at leisure. With palm-lined streets and seaside promenades, Swakopmund is a popular holiday destination in Namibia. Its pleasant summer climate and long stretched beaches attract anglers and surfers from all over Southern Africa. For the international guest, Swakopmund is a bohemian mix of German architecture and African rhythms, a laid-back attitude with adrenalin activities, misty mornings and desert heat. It is colourful, it is vibrant, but most of all, it is pure fun.
Hansa Hotel - Breakfast
Swakopmund
A delightful and historic old German town, Swakopmund is the recreation capital of Namibia, and offers an enormous number of ways to enjoy the surrounding Namib Desert, as well as the Atlantic Ocean.
Founded as a harbour for the Germans during their colonial ownership of South West Africa, Swakopmund is closely connected with marine activities and wildlife. Some fantastic seafood can be enjoyed in one of the many restaurants.
Hansa Hotel
What you’d never expect in the world’s oldest desert, Namibia’ finest and oldest hotel.
Nestling in the very center of the charming little town of Swakopmund, wrapped in the shape of a timelessly classical building dating from 1905, an integral part of Swakopmund’s architectural heritage, offers you a feeling of being enveloped in a luxurious and sophisticated hospitality with a satisfying blend of both classic atmosphere and truly elegant interior, matched with friendly and personalized service.
Day 7 : Swakopmund
Swakopmund is often fondly referred to as the "playground of Namibia", it has numerous activities ranging from, adventure to exploring the fascinating features of the Namib Desert and the animals and plants that occur and survive here. Embrace the relaxed pace of this idyllic coastal town while enjoying coffee and freshly baked pastries in one of the many café's. Alternatively explore the rugged, sweltering desert on a day tour, or view this awesome, environment from the air on a scenic flight. Find your inner child and push adrenaline to its limits with extreme adventures such as skydiving over the desert or quad biking and sand boarding on the dunes. Take time to get the feel of this quaint town with its historic buildings, museums, shopping arcades and beach bar that has transformed into its own personality by the vibrant use of colour and the bohemian lifestyle.
Hansa Hotel - Breakfast
Day 8 : Damaraland
Today our journey continues through Uis past the Brandberg, Namibia's highest mountain (2.579m), into the Damaraland, one of the least populated and most geologically diverse areas in Africa. This harsh, rocky environment is home to the elusive desert elephant, the black rhino and free-roaming antelope species. We arrive at our lodge in the afternoon, where we have the remaining day at leisure.
Ondjamba Hills - Breakfast
Damaraland
One of the most scenic areas of Namibia, situated roughly in the centre of the country, Damaraland has a vast range of landscapes and experiences to offer.
With enormously wide open spaces, endless wastelands, and some beautiful mountains and inselbergs, Damaraland can occupy a number of days of a Namibian itinerary. Named after the Damara people who were moved into the area during the years of apartheid in South Africa, you can enjoy cultural experiences with the local tribes along your journey.
Namibia is a geologist's delight, and with prehistoric water courses, massive granite koppies and deep gorges, Damaraland has some fascinating features which will keep the camera occupied.
Ondjamba Hills
Ondjamba Hills is nestled within some of the most iconic landscapes in Damaraland, 40km northwest of Uis next to the Ugab River.
Ondjamba Hills offers an eclectic fusion of nature, rustic old-world safari charm with modern chic, creating harmony with the dramatic environment and nature.
Ondjamba Hills offers 20 randomly placed large Meru-style safari tents (10m x 5m) with en-suite bathrooms and outside veranda with seating arrangements that offers spectacular views over the Brandberg Mountain.
The camp is fully off-grid, having its own boreholes for water and being powered by solar energy with a back-up generator. Although the camp is powered by solar, water is heated using old-school, traditional “donkies” (geysers heated by fire) adding the sense of uniqueness of the great outdoors and the smell of woodsmoke.
Everything at Ondjamba is about the romance and experience of travel in Africa. Untouched wilderness at your doorstep, with views on the majestic Brandberg (Namibia’s highest Mountain) and the ephemeral Ugab River Valley and the granite “koppies” dotted in the landscape. Even the restaurant lights were placed with the starry Namibian skies in mind.
The common areas are built from brick, wooden poles, thatch, and canvas – all circular structures to fit in aesthetically with the granite boulders in the area. Its architecture lets the structures blend into the surrounding boulders dotted around the area with some even being part of the infrastructure.
The highlight however remains the pristine landscape the camp is located in.
Day 9 : Damaraland
On an early morning scenic nature drive through, at times untouched wilderness area of the Otjimboyo Concession, we head out towards the Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain. This is the best time to capture the perfect light of sunrise and catch the last mist engulfing the mountain. We continue down into the dry Ugab riverbed, which we follow back towards the camp. Stopping under one of the majestic camelthorn trees we enjoy a light picnic lunch. On our drive along the meandering river we might encounter the elusive desert elephant that roam the dry riverbeds of the Damaraland, feeding on the nutritious pods of the trees lining the riverbanks. Arriving back at the camp we have enough time left to enjoy the scenery or follow one of the walking trails.
Ondjamba Hills – Breakfast & Picnic Lunch
Day 10 : Etosha National Park
During the cooler hours of the morning, we start our adventure filled day in the company of a local Damara guide, who takes us to Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO heritage site where Bushman communities engraved and painted over 2.500 pictures some 6.000 years ago! After a visit to the nearby Living Museum of the Damara, we proceed to the Petrified Forest - a geological phenomenon depicting the creation and metamorphosis of wood into stone amongst some of the oldest landmasses on Earth. Here we also see the Welwitschia mirabilis plant – the oldest living desert plant on Earth. Our onward journey takes us to the wildlife heaven of Namibia - the Etosha National Park. We check into our lodge located on the border of the Etosha National Park and can unwind after the adventure filled day alongside the pool.
Etosha Safari Camp or similar - Breakfast
Etosha National Park
Meaning "Place of Dry Water," Etosha is the best wildlife destination in Namibia, and at certain times of year can rival any game reserve in Africa.
Formed around the enormous and beautiful Etosha Salt Pan, the national park is home to an incredible number of species, including black rhino, the endemic black faced impala, thousands upon thousands and springbok, zebra, wildebeest and the majestic gemsbok (oryx).
During the dry season, these animals are drawn in their masses to the very few remaining water holes, and it is not uncommon to see a few hundred of several different species all in one location at one time.
Being roughly a 5 hour drive from Windhoek, Etosha National Park is also accessible by air, and is definitely a highlight of a Namibian safari itinerary.
Etosha Safari Camp
Down to earth, relaxed, innovative and charming are Etosha Safari Camps alluring qualities - and of course, its proximity to Etosha National Park. This friendly safari camp has cosy accommodation set between the mopane trees, an inviting circular swimming pool, a lush green campsite and ample character. Extending the theme of Etosha as being a Place of Legends, Etosha Safari Camp takes it one step further by bringing home the story and spirit of Africa. And the result is - legendary! Here, the typical informal bar or shebeen, well-known and beloved throughout southern Africa, is given expression in the Okambashu (Our home) restaurant and Oshebeena bar with local colour and country bric-a-brac.
A delicious array of food is laid out on an old train compartment. Guests have a choice of dining in the intriguing township dining rooms, around fireplaces in the cooler months or outside in the courtyard where The Etosha Boys strum guitars and sing lively local songs. African wildlife takes priority during the day at this Etosha camp, only a short drive from Andersson Gate, the portal to the magnificence of the animal kingdom.
Explore the national park on your own or join our professional guides for an enlightening and informative wildlife journey. Or do both, with a break in the day for a siesta at the Camp. From the black-faced impala to the wizened elephant giants and lion kings, the wild world is simply spellbinding. As the end of the day approaches, race the sun home to Etosha Safari Camp to laughter, comfort and good cheer. Tap toes to the beat of Africa.
Day 11 : Etosha National Park
The day is devoted purely to the abundant wildlife found in the Etosha National Park, which surrounds a parched salt desert known as the Etosha Pan. The park is home to 4 of the Big Five - elephant, lion, leopard and rhino. The Park was proclaimed as Namibia's first conservation area in 1907 by the then Governor, von Lindequist. Despite the size of the Etosha National Park, only the southern edge of the pan is accessible to visitors. Game viewing in the park is primarily focussed around the waterholes, some of which are spring fed and some supplied from a borehole, ideal places to sit and watch over 114 different game species, or for an avid birder, more than 340 bird species. Popular game species such as giraffe, blue wildebeest, plains and mountain zebra, hyena, lion, leopard, antelopes such as kudu, oryx, eland, as well as some of the endangered species such as Black rhino, cheetah and the black-faced impala are all found here. An extensive network of roads link the over 30 water holes allowing visitors the opportunity of a comprehensive game viewing safari throughout the park as each different area will provide various encounters.
Etosha Safari Camp or similar - Breakfast
Day 12 : Etosha National Park
Today your guide again takes you on a game drive in the Etosha National Park. We may encounter animal species we have not seen the previous day and look forward to any new surprises at the different waterholes visited. The Etosha Pan dominates the park. This salt pan desert, which is nearly completely enclosed by the park and is lined by numerous watering holes, is roughly 130 km long and as wide as 50 km in places. During Etosha’s notorious dry spells the pan is a deathly place, lying parched and cracked under the molten African sun. It is claimed that game viewing is best during the dry periods as animals will then congregate closer to water. But even in the rainy season, the park remains an abundant wildlife haven. You then have the pleasure of experiencing the rebirth of life as the young foals, cubs and chicks are seen frolicking with their parents, and the sprouting new green shrubs and grasses create a pleasing green oasis. In the afternoon we onwards to our lodge, where we enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
La Rochelle Lodge - Breakfast
La Rochelle Lodge
Nestled amongst chalky plains with islands of Makalani palms towering the sky and Acacia thickets wrapped with endless grasslands you will find the 10 000ha lodge, La Rochelle. Home to a myriad of bird life and game species which allows for photographic game drives and waterhole sightings. Our guest Lldge boasts a large selection of accommodation: bungalows, family rooms and luxury suite. La Rochelle restaurant prides itself in using local produce as much as possible, to aid its intercontinental style of menu, and we offer a concise wine selection to accompany our dishes. Situated only 40 km north of Tsumeb on the newly tarred road M75 to Tsintsabis and the Okavango River, close to the eastern gate of Etosha Park, Guinas and Otjiikoto lakes. And another place of interest close to us is the Hoba meteorite which lies between Tsumeb and Grootfontein.
Day 13 - Day of Departure
After breakfast, we travel back through the centre of the country exposing bush land savannah to the capital in the centre of the country. Time permitting, en-route we may stop at the famous wood carvers market in Okahandja or the craft market in the main street in Windhoek to pick up the last few souvenirs. Windhoek is a cosmopolitan melting pot of European architecture with African culture, with a variety of excellent restaurants to choose from. You will be dropped off at your accommodation of choice or transferred to the airport for your outward flight.