18 Day Namibia’s Multi-Adventure: Canyons, Dunes, Wildlife Safari (Accommodated)

Day 1: Windhoek, Namibia

Your Namibian adventure begins at Hosea Kutako International Airport! After a smooth arrival, we’ll whisk you to Windhoek, where your Backpackers awaits – your comfortable home for the night.

Ideally situated, the Backpackers puts the city center within easy walking distance. Feeling social? Mingle with fellow travelers or strike up conversations with friendly locals. Craving a delicious bite? Look no further! Your Backpackers offers both in-house meals and tempting pizzas, perfect for refueling after your journey.

Whether you choose to explore the vibrant city or unwind by the inviting pool or bar, the Backpackers provides the perfect launchpad for your unforgettable Namibian escapade. So relax, recharge, and get ready to be amazed!

Accommodation: Backpackers Guesthouse
Optional Activities: Explore the city centre on foot / relax by the pool
Distance: +/- 50 km

Day 2: Windhoek – Etosha National Park, Namibia

Gear up for an unforgettable Namibian adventure! We’ll collect you from your Backpackers in Windhoek at 07:00 and head north. Grab some last-minute supplies in Otjiwarongo before entering the vast Etosha National Park, teeming with diverse wildlife. Enjoy a light lunch on the move as we embark on a game drive towards Halali Camp, our comfortable accommodation for the night.

Etosha National Park, a sprawling 22,000 sq km sanctuary, boasts a staggering 114 mammal species, 350 bird species, and countless reptiles and insects. Keep your eyes peeled for these incredible creatures as we explore the park, stopping at waterholes teeming with life.

Settle into your en-suite room with tea/coffee facilities at Halali Camp before sunset. The name “Halali” signifies the end of the hunt in European tradition, a fitting symbol for this protected haven. Here, the “game show” continues after dark! Take advantage of floodlit waterholes, with Moringa being just a short walk away. This popular waterhole, known for attracting elephants and critically endangered black rhinos, promises exciting nighttime wildlife viewing!

Accommodation: Halali Campsite en-suite facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Game Drive in Etosha National Park
Distance: +/- 500 kms

Day 3: Etosha National Park – Etosha Village, Namibia

Unleash your inner wildlife explorer in Etosha National Park! We’ll greet the sunrise with an early morning game drive – prime time to spot big cats returning from their hunts. After a delicious breakfast back at Halali Camp, we’ll hop back in our vehicle and head deeper into the park.

Etosha’s arid landscape revolves around precious water sources. Our expert guides will navigate us to strategic watering holes, where thirsty animals congregate for a much-needed drink. Expect thrilling encounters with a diverse range of wildlife!

Prepare to be awestruck by the Etosha Pan – a dazzling white expanse stretching over 4,700 sq km! This majestic “great white space,” visible even from space, lives up to its name. As the sun dips towards the horizon, we’ll exit Etosha via the Anderson Gate and head to our comfortable accommodation with modern en-suite facilities. Relax and unwind after an incredible day, savouring a delicious dinner prepared by your guide.

Accommodation: Etosha Village en-suite facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Morning and Afternoon Game Drive in Etosha National Park, Etosha Pan
Distance: +/- 70 km

Day 4: Etosha – Swakopmund, Namibia

Embark on a captivating journey to Namibia’s Skeleton Coast! After breakfast, we depart on a scenic route, soaking in the beauty of Damaraland. Rugged mountains, open grasslands, and towering granite kopjes create a dramatic landscape. Interact with friendly locals from the Himba, Herero, and Damara tribes, stopping to admire their traditional attire and perhaps pick up handcrafted souvenirs – a great way to support the local community.

Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch in the shadow of Namibia’s highest mountain, the majestic Brandberg. Then, continue west and witness the dramatic Skeleton Coast unfold before you. This windswept shoreline, aptly named for its shipwrecks, boasts forbidding mountains and vast, deserted beaches.

Learn about the harsh fate of sailors who met their end here, their ships claimed by relentless waves and fog banks. We’ll visit the fascinating Zeila shipwreck, a recent addition to the Skeleton Coast’s haunting collection. Beached in 2008, this trawler offers a powerful testament to the unforgiving nature of this coastline.

Finally, arrive at the charming coastal town of Swakopmund. Founded in 1892, this unique town blends German colonial architecture with a vibrant seaside atmosphere. Check into your comfortable accommodation at Salty Jackal Backpackers and explore the town’s delights. Your guide will be happy to recommend exceptional restaurants where you can savour delicious meals!

Accommodation: Hotel a La Mer en-suite facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlights: Damaraland, Shipwreck
Distance:  +/- 510 kms

Day 5 – 11: Swakopmund, Namibia

Buckle up for 7 days of epic surf sessions in the charming coastal town of Swakopmund. Each day begins with a delicious breakfast, fueling you for the thrill of catching waves under the Namibian sun.

Nature calls the shots, so flexibility is key. Some days might bless us with perfect conditions, allowing for two glorious sessions. Other days, the waves might be a tad too intense for your current level, prompting us to chill on the beach or explore other adventures. But worry not, even skipped surf days are packed with possibilities!

Swakopmund is an adrenaline junkie’s playground. Feel the rush of quad-biking through dunes, soar above the coastline while paragliding, or harness the wind with windsurfing lessons. Scenic flights offer breathtaking aerial views, while angling enthusiasts can cast their lines for a thrilling catch.

For an unforgettable wildlife encounter, we can arrange a visit to the Cape Cross seal colony or a dolphin cruise in nearby Walvis Bay. Imagine yourself surrounded by playful dolphins, or even spotting majestic whales and penguins – an experience guaranteed to leave you speechless.

Most activities take place in the mornings, allowing you to explore further in the afternoons. Afternoons are your oyster! Practice yoga poses overlooking the ocean, delve into the town’s unique charm, or venture further into the surrounding beauty.

As the sun dips below the horizon, unwind with a walk along the majestic sand dunes. Sip on a refreshing drink by the ocean before diving into Swakopmund’s vibrant nightlife. Evenings can be spent socializing around a crackling bonfire, enjoying live music in a beer garden, or savouring delicious food at a wine bar or pizzeria.

So, are you ready to catch the perfect wave, explore hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories in Namibia? Let’s make it happen!

Accommodation: Salty Jackal Backpackers
Included Highlights: Swakopmund, Surf Session with a qualified surf coach or guide
Optional Activities: Quad-biking, Paragliding, Windsurfing, Scenic Flights, Fishing, Visit Cape Cross Seal Colony, Dolphin Cruise in Walvis Bay

Day 12: Swakopmund – Sesriem, Namibia

Bid farewell to Swakopmund as we delve into the heart of the Namib Desert by 11:30 AM. Vast gravel plains, dotted with dramatic mountain inselbergs, stretch before us. This afternoon, we conquer two mighty passes. First, the Kuiseb Pass – a scenic climb followed by a dramatic descent into the canyon carved by the Kuiseb River. Imagine the river’s journey, all the way to Walvis Bay! After traversing the riverbed, we ascend another pass, offering breathtaking panoramas before reaching the Gaub River, a tributary of the Kuiseb.

Emerging from the mountains, we cross the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S) – a photo stop is a must! Continuing through the captivating desert landscapes, we arrive at Solitaire, a tiny town famous for its delicious apple pie – the perfect pit stop to stretch our legs and tantalize our taste buds. Our final leg takes us to Sesriem, the gateway to the awe-inspiring Sossusvlei dunes. Tonight, we camp beneath a majestic camelthorn tree, with a captivating glimpse of the towering red dunes – a taste of tomorrow’s adventure in the world’s oldest desert!

Accommodation: Sesriem Campsite caping with shared facilities
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13: Sesriem – Sossusvlei – Sesriem, Namibia

Gear up for an unforgettable sunrise adventure! We depart before dawn, our first stop: Dune 45, a majestic peak named for its distance from Sesriem (45 kilometers). As twilight paints the sky, we’ll arrive at Dune 45 for a breathtaking sunrise. Witness the towering dunes erupt in a fiery palette of orange and apricot, while the opposite side remains cloaked in shadow. The morning light creates an incredible depth of field, perfect for capturing this awe-inspiring scene.

After basking in the sunrise, we’ll enjoy a quick breakfast before continuing to Sossusvlei. We’ll park our vehicles and transfer to a 4×4 shuttle, navigating the sandy terrain of the ancient Tsauchab Riverbed. Our destination: Deadvlei, an otherworldly pan surrounded by towering dunes. Here, petrified camelthorn trees stand as stark reminders of a time when the Tsauchab flowed freely. These ancient sentinels have stood guard for over 1000 years!

Explore Deadvlei on foot and challenge yourself to climb one of the world’s highest dunes, reaching up to 300 meters! The panoramic views from the summit are truly unforgettable.

Returning to Sesriem for lunch, the afternoon offers a chance to unwind by the pool or embark on a short excursion to Sesriem Canyon. Carved by the Tsauchab River, this geological marvel is a testament to the power of nature. Descend into the cooler canyon and follow the riverbed, imagining its journey to Sossusvlei.

As the day draws to a close, an optional adventure awaits: Elim Dune beckons for a magical experience bathed in the golden light of sunset. Take a short walk through the desert landscape back to camp, reflecting on the wonders witnessed today in the world’s oldest desert!

Accommodation: Sesriem Campsite – Twin share tents and shared ablution
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Sunrise in the dunes, Dune 45, Deadvlei, Elim Dunes, Sesriem Canyon
Distance: +/- 120 kms

Day 14: Sesriem – Klein Aus Vista, Namibia

Today’s journey is a visual feast! Prepare for a scenic drive through ever-changing landscapes – from desert plains to majestic mountains and open grasslands. As we traverse south, our destination unfolds: the charming community of Aus, nestled within the Aus Mountains. This historic town was once home to a WWII prisoner-of-war camp.

Our final stop for the day is Klein Aus Vista, located just outside Aus and within the Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park. We aim to arrive in the early afternoon, allowing time to set up camp and explore the property’s network of unguided hiking trails. Imagine stretching your legs amidst these vast, open vistas, anticipating a spectacular sunset – the perfect finale to a captivating day!

Accommodation: Klein Aus Vista Campsite with shared facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: +/- 350 km

Day 15: Klein Aus Vista – Luderitz (Kolmanskop), Namibia

We depart early, enjoying the luxury of a smooth, paved road as we traverse open grasslands and vast desert plains towards the coast. Keep your eyes peeled – wild horses, perfectly adapted to this arid environment, may grace us with their presence. Their origins remain a mystery – perhaps descendants of German cavalry horses or escapees from a nearby breeder’s stables. Regardless of their history, witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a privilege.

Our journey leads us to Kolmanskop, a fascinating ghost town located 15 kilometers from the port town of Lüderitz. Fueled by rumors of riches, prospectors struck diamond in this remote region. Imagine literally picking diamonds off the beach! Kolmanskop, established in 1908, became a thriving diamond mining settlement. Built in a German architectural style, it boasted modern amenities like a hospital with the first x-ray machine in the Southern Hemisphere, a power station, school, ballroom, and even an ice factory!

The discovery of even richer diamond deposits in 1928 sadly led to Kolmanskop’s decline. The town became deserted, slowly reclaimed by the relentless desert sands. Today, this preserved ghost town offers a glimpse into its fascinating past. We’ll take a guided tour and capture captivating photos of this unique and historic site.

After Kolmanskop, we’ll cover the final stretch to Lüderitz, a town renowned for its vibrant colonial-style buildings. A scenic drive along the Lüderitz peninsula takes us to Diaz Point, a historical monument. Similar to Cape Cross, European exploration left its mark here. In 1487, Portuguese navigator Bartolomeu Diaz landed at this point, erecting a stone cross. He named the area “Angra das Voltas” or “Bay of Tacks,” reflecting the challenges he faced navigating against strong southern winds. Interestingly, Lüderitz is still known for its strong winds today – some things never change!

Finally, we’ll head back to our accommodation at Klein Aus Vista, with another chance to spot the wild desert horses. We’ll arrive in time for a relaxing sundowner at Klein Aus Vista, the perfect ending to an adventure-filled day!

Accommodation: Klein Aus Vista Campsite with shared facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Kolmanskop
Distance: +/- 250 km

Day 16: Klein Aus Vista – Fish River Canyon –  Keetmanshoop, Namibia

Buckle up for a scenic drive today! We’ll take advantage of the smooth tar road for the first part of the morning, traversing Namibia’s southern region. Our journey takes us east, but soon we’ll curve south to reach a true Namibian crown jewel – the awe-inspiring Fish River Canyon.

We’ll enter the Ai-Ais Richtersveldt Transfrontier National Park through the Hobas gate, and a short drive later, we’ll arrive at the main lookout point, offering a panoramic vista that will leave you speechless.

The Fish River Canyon, second only to the Grand Canyon in size, is a masterpiece sculpted by nature over millions of years. From our lofty vantage point, we’ll gaze upon “Hell’s Bend,” a dramatic meander carved by the Fish River. Imagine the sheer scale – the canyon stretches for roughly 160 kilometers, reaching a width of 27 kilometers at its most expansive and plunging a staggering 550 meters at its deepest point.

The canyon’s origins date back a mind-boggling 1.8 billion years. Its formation is a testament to the relentless forces of nature – immense seismic activity, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, glacial sculpting, and relentless erosion have all played a role. And finally, the Fish River itself, a glistening ribbon far below, continues to etch its mark. Here, tortured rock stands as a monument to the Earth’s raw power, inspiring awe with its colossal presence.

Leaving this breathtaking spectacle behind, we’ll head north, with the canyon marking the southernmost leg of our adventure. Our next stop is Keetmanshoop, the bustling commercial and political center of Namibia’s south. After a quick pit stop, we’ll continue to our final camp for the night – a magical spot nestled amidst the Quiver Tree Forest.

This otherworldly forest, with its 250 or so quiver “plants/trees/aloes,” is a photographer’s paradise. The gnarled and magnificent shapes create a landscape unlike any other. The oldest specimens here are estimated to be around 200 years old, with some reaching a potential lifespan of 300 years. However, their exact age remains a bit of a mystery, as unlike trees with growth rings, their fibrous core makes traditional dating methods difficult.

Tonight, under a blanket of stars, gather around the crackling campfire for one last time. Share stories, reminisce about the incredible experiences of your Namibian adventure, and savor the memories you’ve made. This is a night to cherish, a perfect finale to an unforgettable journey.

Accommodation: Quiver Tree Forest Campsite with shared facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest

Day 17: Keetmanshoop – Windhoek, Namibia

Today, we bid farewell to the south and embark on a scenic journey north, cruising along a smooth tar road – a welcome respite from yesterday’s “African massage”. But Namibia’s wonders keep unfolding even on a road trip!

Our first point of interest emerges on the horizon roughly 80 kilometers from Keetmanshoop – the colossal Brukkaros. This ancient volcano boasts a unique origin story. Formed a staggering 180 million years ago, molten magma (liquid rock) from deep within the Earth pushed upwards, encountering a hidden underground lake. The resulting clash triggered a colossal explosion fueled by superheated steam.

As we continue north, roughly 150 kilometers into our trip, a signpost beckons – Gibeon. While Gibeon itself is beyond our itinerary’s reach, a fascinating story awaits. In the distant prehistoric past, this area witnessed a monumental meteor strike. Imagine a solid metal meteor measuring 4x4x3 meters hurtling towards Earth! The intense heat of entering our atmosphere caused the meteor to fragment in a colossal explosion, scattering molten metal chunks across the vast Namibian landscape. Fragments have been discovered as far south as Brukkaros and as far north from Gibeon! The most significant concentration, however, lies in and around Gibeon itself. If you find yourself with free time in Windhoek after your safari, head to Post Street Mall – a public display of these fascinating Gibeon meteorites awaits.

Our northward journey continues, passing through the charming towns of Mariental and Rehoboth. We’ll make a pit stop for a light lunch and aim to arrive back in Windhoek by late afternoon. Upon arrival, we’ll check back into the Backpackers, and you’ll have the evening to explore Windhoek’s vibrant restaurant scene and savour a delicious dinner at your own expense.

Accommodation: Windhoek Chameleon Backpackers
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 18: Windhoek, Namibia

As the sun paints the sky with hues of gold, it’s time to bid farewell to Namibia. After a delicious breakfast, our incredible adventure together comes to an end.

For those departing on afternoon flights, this morning offers an opportunity to further explore Windhoek’s vibrant heart. Take advantage of a FREE city walking tour, soaking in the city’s rich history and cultural tapestry. Or, if you prefer a deeper dive, embark on a City & Township Tour (at your own expense) – an enriching experience that delves into the diverse neighborhoods and local lifestyles.

No matter how you choose to spend your final hours, cherish these last moments in Namibia. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences – the adrenaline rush of surfing in Swakopmund, the awe-inspiring vastness of the Fish River Canyon, the otherworldly beauty of the Quiver Tree Forest, and countless other memories etched forever in your mind.

As you depart, Namibia whispers a promise – a promise of returning to its captivating landscapes, warm hospitality, and the magic that awaits around every corner. Until next time, Namibia!

Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities: Windhoek City walking Tour

Onward Travel Plans

Due to circumstances beyond our control while on tour (such as border crossings, traffic, breakdowns and delays, etc), the end time on the last day cannot be guaranteed. Therefore we strongly recommend you stay the night and fly out the next day. Please consult with your booking consultant.