12 Day Namibia Classic: Desert and Wildlife Safari

Your Namibian adventure begins with your arrival at Hosea Kutako (Windhoek International) Airport (WDH), where you will be warmly greeted by your dedicated guide. From the airport, enjoy a seamless, fully guided transfer to Villa Violet, your guesthouse in Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek. After checking in and settling into your accommodation, you’ll embark on an insightful city tour of Windhoek. Discover a city of fascinating contrasts, where modern skyscrapers stand in harmony with historic buildings dating back to the turn of the century. Many structures from the German colonial era have been meticulously preserved and restored, now serving vital community functions. Your tour will showcase key landmarks, including the notable Parliament Building, affectionately known as the “Ink Place,” the charming Lutheran Church, and the historic Railway Station.

Following a delightful breakfast, bid farewell to Windhoek as you check out from Villa Violet. Your fully guided journey continues, taking you south via Rehoboth, directly into the mesmerizing red dunes of the Kalahari Desert. This vast, ancient landscape promises an immediate connection with Namibia’s unique natural beauty. In the late afternoon, prepare for an engaging guided game drive, offering you the opportunity to learn intimately about the diverse and resilient flora and fauna that call the Kalahari home. You’ll check into the serene Bagatelle Kalahari Game Ranch for your overnight stay.

Today, your expedition ventures further south from the Kalahari. The route will guide you via Maltahöhe, leading you into the expansive, low plains of the iconic Namib Desert. Your destination is Desert Camp, strategically located near the entrance gate to the world-renowned Sossusvlei dunes. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, allowing you to relax and soak in the tranquil beauty of this ancient desert environment, preparing for the wonders that await you tomorrow.

Prepare for an unforgettable day as you embark on a very early morning departure into the Namib Naukluft Park. This early start ensures you witness one of Namibia’s most scenic and iconic attractions: the monumental Sossusvlei and its towering, highest dunes in the world. You’ll also explore the ethereal Deadvlei, a dried-out natural water pan strikingly dotted with the skeletal, ancient trunks of dead acacia trees silhouetted against the bright blue sky. On your return journey to the lodge, a visit to the fascinating Sesriem Canyon is also a worthwhile attraction. Conclude this incredible day with a relaxing sundowner atop a nearby ridge, providing a perfect end to your desert experience.

Today’s route takes you north, traversing the dramatic Kuiseb Canyon before arriving at the captivating coastal town of Swakopmund. This quaint desert town effortlessly blends old-world charm with a relaxed atmosphere, uniquely nestled between the vast desert and the cool Atlantic Ocean. Its character is further enhanced by lush green lawns and swaying palm trees. The afternoon is dedicated to your leisure, giving you the opportunity to explore its unique architecture, wander through local shops, or simply enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. You will check into Swakopmund Guesthouse for your stay.

Get ready for an exciting marine adventure today! You will be picked up from your accommodation and driven to the nearby town of Walvis Bay, the departure point for your thrilling Dolphin Cruise. Glide across the Atlantic waters, keeping an eye out for diverse marine life. To perfectly round off your trip, you will be treated to fresh Walvis Bay oysters, a selection of snacks, and cold sparkling wine served on board as you cruise back to the docking station. Afterwards, you will be transferred back to Swakopmund.

Today, your journey leads you north along the stunning Atlantic Coast. Your first stop is a visit to the intriguing lichen fields near Wlotzka’s Baken, offering a unique insight into the desert’s surprising biodiversity. Continue onwards to Henties Bay, a charming small holiday resort. The adventure then takes you to the remarkable seal colony at Cape Cross, where you can observe thousands of Cape Fur seals in their natural habitat. After this captivating visit, the journey proceeds via Uis towards your destination for the night, Twyfelfontein, where you will check into Malansrus Tented Camp.

This morning offers a truly unique wildlife experience as you seek out the renowned desert-adapted elephants in the Huab and Aba-Huab dry riverbeds with your expert guide. These magnificent creatures have uniquely adapted to the harsh desert environment. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in history with a visit to the Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings, a designated World Heritage Site. Marvel at the ancient Bushman rock art, depicting animals, human figures, and mystical symbols, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants. Additionally, a planned activity for this day is Palmwag Rhino Tracking.

Departing from Malansrus, your journey continues to Kamanjab and further to the illustrious Etosha National Park. Etosha promises a wilderness experience unmatched in terms of privacy and breathtaking landscape viewing. If time permits upon arrival, your guide will lead you into the National Park for your first thrilling game drive this very afternoon. You will check into Taleni Etosha Village for your stay within the southern part of Etosha.

Today is dedicated to discovering the profound mysteries of the African bush within Etosha National Park. You will spend the entire day conducting extensive game drives throughout the park, traveling in an eastern direction. Etosha is famous for its numerous waterholes, which act as magnets for a large diversity of animal and bird species. Witness spectacular gatherings of wildlife, many of which are endemic to Namibia, as they congregate around these vital water sources. Expect incredible photographic opportunities and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Another day of incredible wildlife discovery awaits you as you continue to explore the African bush, traveling in an easterly direction through Etosha National Park, passing via Halali and Namutoni. Your ultimate destination is the exquisite Onguma Bush Camp, located within the private Onguma Nature Reserve, which borders Etosha National Park. This evening, enjoy the exclusive atmosphere and potentially unique wildlife sightings offered by a private reserve, providing a perfect culmination to your safari experience.

After a final Namibian breakfast, you will check out from Onguma Bush Camp . Your return journey takes you back towards Windhoek, with a stop in Okahandja . Okahandja is renowned as an important center for woodcarvers from the north , making it an excellent place to pick up a last, authentic Namibian souvenir . Your arrival in Windhoek is scheduled for approximately 17h00 , followed by a transfer to Hosea Kutako Airport (WDH) for check-in on your outbound flight, concluding your unforgettable “Classic Namibia” adventure .