13 Day Exploring Namibia Group Tour (superior)
Countries: Namibia
Destinations: Kalahari , Fish River Canyon , Namib Desert , Sossusvlei , Swakopmund , Damaraland , Etosha National Park
Group Size: 6
Duration (days): 13
Number of Adults: 0
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 Lodge |
| 3 | Namib Desert | Luderitz Nest Hotel |
| 4 | Sossusvlei | Sossusvlei Lodge |
| 5 | Sossusvlei | Sossusvlei Lodge |
| 6 | Swakopmund | Swakopmund Luxury Suites |
| 7 | Swakopmund | Swakopmund Luxury Suites |
| 8 | Damaraland | Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp |
| 9 | Damaraland | Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp |
| 10 | Etosha National Park | Epacha Game Lodge and Spa |
| 11 | Etosha National Park | Epacha Game Lodge and Spa |
| 12 | Etosha National Park | Mushara 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 - which is included in the price.
Intu Afrika Collection – Dinner & Nature Drive in the Kalahari
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 Lodge – Breakfast, Dinner
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 Lodge
Anticipation builds up as you turn off the main gravel road toward Canyon Lodge. The soft colours of apricot sand merging with the pale green of euphorbias is a prelude to the loveliness of the lodge surrounds. As you turn a final bend, the lodge comes into view. Nestled between rounded granite boulders, Canyon Lodges quaint century-old farmhouse reception, verdant garden and cool pond invite and welcome you into the enchanted enclave.
Take a guided drive to the Fish River Canyon to be inspired by new perspectives, join a 3-4 day Canyon Trail for an experience of a lifetime, follow the 4x4 Wildebeest Drive to view the plains animals, watch sunrise amidst the quiver trees, hike in the rocky hills or savour the sunset either from the adjacent koppie or on the sunset drive. Away from the world, there is a gentle rhythm of peace to find here, reaffirming the goodness of life. For those just wanting a break from the road, lounge at the pool, take a snooze in the coolness of your thatch-and-stone chalet or dip into a book on the terrace. The awe-inspiring canyon wakens our senses to the raw and powerful beauty of Nature.
Offering character and charm, without the glitz, the lodges down-to-earth attractiveness and homeliness is perfect for the rugged Fish River Canyon surrounds. Twenty kilometres from the chasms carved by millions-of-years of Earth history, earth cataclysms, whispers of wind, raging torrents of water and sparkling streamlets, this Fish River Canyon lodge is a hideaway not to be missed.
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.
Lüderitz Nest Hotel Deluxe Room – Breakfast, Dinner
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 : Sossusvlei
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.
Sossusvlei Lodge – Breakfast, Dinner
Sossusvlei
Situated in the largest conservation area in Africa (the Namib-Naukluft National Park), Sossusvlei is possibly Namibia’s most spectacular and best-known attraction. Characterised by the large red dunes that surround it, Sossusvlei is a large, white, salt and clay pan and is a great destination all year round. The dunes in this area are some of the highest in the world, reaching almost 400 meters, and provide photographic enthusiasts with wonderful images in the beautiful morning and evening light.
Sossusvlei Lodge
Situated at the Entrance Gate to the Namib Naukluft Park, Sossusvlei Lodge offers direct access to the towering red sand dunes, the famous pan of Sossusvlei, the scorched black trees of Dead Vlei and the remarkable depths of the Sesriem Canyon.
The Superior Accommodation units at Sossusvlei Lodge feature a patio to enjoy views over the Desert landscapes, a spacious air-conditioned twin-bedded room and a full en-suite bathroom. The Standard Family Units feature two rooms back to back connected by a lockable inter-leading door between the two private bathrooms. An elegant Junior Suite boasts a spacious bedroom, living area, patio with a splash pool, large bathroom and inspiring views.
Experience the true art of Hospitality with the thoughtful touch of attentive staff to contribute to a truly memorable experience. Facilities include a sparkling pool, bar, sundowner deck, beer garden and an al fresco terrace where one can enjoy exquisite food, award-winning wines and magnificent views of the floodlit waterhole.
The Sossusvlei Lodge Adventure Centre provides a range of activities including Guided Excursions to Deadvlei and Sossusvlei, Elim dune walks, Sundowner Trips, Quad Buggy Nature Drives, Hot Air Ballooning, Scenic Flights and much more to explore the areas natural beauty.
Day 5 : Sossusvlei
The morning requires 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.
Sossusvlei Lodge – Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Swakopmund Luxury Suites – 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.
Swakopmund Luxury Suites
Where the dunes meet the ocean, tranquillity meets comfort at Swakopmund Luxury Suites.
Nestled in the heart of Swakopmund lies a home away from home for both local and international guests. Each of our luxury suites is designed to provide a uniquely memorable stay.
Enjoy breakfast at one of the quaint surrounding coffee shops, or fuel your adrenalin addiction at the nearby sky diving school, dune or ocean adventure locations.
Whatever your visit, our contemporary luxurious suites look forward to welcoming you.
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.
Swakopmund Luxury Suites – Breakfast & Marine Cruise
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.
Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp – Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp
Nestled in rolling boulders of a granite outcrop, Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp is conveniently situated a ten-minute drive from Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings, within walking distance of the Damara Living Museum and the Huab River Valley.
Accommodation at the property consists of 12 furnished en-suite tents with two beds, an open bathroom with a solar heated hot water shower, basin and toilet and a shaded terrace with chairs. The 'Main tent', an open Lapa, gives space for restaurant area, a bar and pool deck. The restaurant can be closed with shutters in wintertime.
Guests can also enjoy a scenic nature drive in the ephemeral Huab River and surrounding valley. It is an excursion exposing visitors to unique geological formations and the possibility of sighting the elusive desert-adapted elephants and rhinos.
A visit in the neighbouring Damara Living Museum can be done in own arrangement, it offers a fascinating look into the people, heritage, pulse and soul of Damaraland.
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.
Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp – Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Epacha Game Lodge & Spa– Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Epacha Game Lodge and Spa
Epacha Game Lodge is located on top of the hills of the 13,000 ha Epacha Game Reserve near Etosha National Park. There are 18 luxury chalets spread over the hills overlooking the private game reserve. The Lodge also boasts a luxury villa.
Activities include morning, afternoon and night drives on the Epacha Game Reserve, a full day drive to the world renowned Etosha National Park, clay pigeon shooting, a visit to a local Himba village and a fully equipped spa.
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.
Epacha Game Lodge & Spa – Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Mushara Collection – Breakfast, Dinner
Mushara Lodge
Located just 8 km from the Von Lindequist Gate on the eastern boundary of Etosha National Park, Mushara Lodge is an ideal overnight stop for visitors to the game reserve.
The lodge consists of ten spacious chalets, one family unit, a triple room and two single rooms. The name Mushara is derived from the Purple Pod Terminalia tree which grows abundantly on the lodge grounds and in the surroundings. The thatched public area includes a small library with a selection of good books, a bar with an extensive wine cellar, an airy lounge complete with welcoming fireplace for winter evenings, a dining area and a well stocked curio shop.
Great attention has been paid to the décor, which is an eclectic blend of traditional African and modern works of art mixed with original older paintings.
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.
Breakfast