13 Day Highlights of Namibia Safari

Your Namibian adventure begins the moment you touch down at Windhoek International Airport. After arriving no later than midday, you will be welcomed by your driver and transferred to the Elegant Guesthouse. Once you have settled in and freshened up, you will meet your guide for a short, immersive city tour of the capital. Discover historic landmarks such as the Christ Church and the Tintenpalast (House of Parliament), which offer a glimpse into the country’s history. As the sun sets, the group will head out to enjoy dinner at one of Windhoek’s excellent local restaurants before retiring for the night.

Following a briefing and luggage stowage in your 4×4 safari vehicle, you will depart Windhoek and travel south toward Mariental. Your destination is the Bagatelle Kalahari Game Ranch, an oasis set amidst the striking red parallel dunes of the Southern Kalahari. Here, you can embrace the tranquility of the desert and unwind. In the late afternoon, you have the option to join a sundowner drive to watch the landscape glow golden as the sun dips below the horizon. Your local guide will provide fascinating insights into the Kalahari’s unique nature and wildlife, followed by a three-course dinner at the lodge.

Stay at Bagatelle Kalahari Game Ranch

Situated on the red sand dunes of the Kalahari Desert, Bagatelle Kalahari Game Ranch offers a classic Namibian safari experience surrounded by dramatic landscapes and native wildlife. Guests can embark on game drives to spot cheetahs, ostriches, and meerkats, participate in guided San Bushman nature walks, relax in air-conditioned chalets, and savor traditional meals under the star-lit desert sky.

For early risers, the day begins with a spectacular sunrise over the Kalahari dunes. Enjoy a coffee with a view, or opt for a morning activity such as a walk with the Bushmen or a horseback ride. After a hearty breakfast, the journey continues through Maltahöhe toward Sesriem.

Stay at Elegant Desert Camp

You will arrive at the Elegant Desert Camp, your gateway to the Namib Desert. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or on your private terrace, soaking in the vast silence of the desert before dinner. Nestled among the dramatic red dunes of the Namib Desert near Sossusvlei, The Elegant Desert Camp offers an intimate, eco-friendly getaway featuring luxury canvas tents with private plunge pools and expansive wooden decks. During your stay, you can soak in panoramic views of the open plains, marvel at nocturnal wildlife from outdoor star beds, and experience guided excursions to the majestic dunes of Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon.

You enter the Sossusvlei region when the Namib Naukluft Park gates open at sunrise. You can even climb one of the dunes to get an amazing perspective of the surrounding area if you get there early and are in good enough shape. Traveling in a 4×4 vehicle, you will arrive to the Sossusvlei, a dry clay pit that only gets filled with water during exceptionally rainy years. After there, you’ll go on to the Sesriem Canyon, which was created over millions of years by the Tsauchab River.

Stay at Elegant Desert Camp

You return to the elegant desert camp after a busy morning. Unwind and take in your lovely surroundings. As the day comes to an end, it’s worthwhile to recline and take in the scenery above you: Countless stars, gleaming in the pitch-black night sky. You may also roll your bed out onto your own terrace and spend the night outside if you can’t get enough of this captivating sight.

You will be traveling to the Atlantic Ocean today. But first, you go along the Welwitschia Drive, past the Bloedkoppie. You will eventually come to a number of viewpoint sites where you may enjoy breathtaking views of the lunar landscape. We cordially welcome you to get out of the vehicle and take in this unusual and enthralling scenery of jagged peaks. It is a scene that is both gorgeous and strangely disturbing. You will next arrive in the village of Swakopmund, which is tucked away between the Namib Desert and the ocean. You may become more acquainted with this town, which has strong German influences, with a quick city tour. You might try one of the many eateries Swakopmund has to offer in the evening (at your own expense); the fish is especially delicious!

Stay at Organic Stay Guesthouse

You will stay for two nights at Organic Stay Guesthouse, just five minutes’ walk from the Atlantic Ocean.  Situated in Swakopmund on the Namibian coast, Organic Stay Guesthouse is an intimate, eco-conscious haven built around lush, chemical-free gardens and sustainable principles. Guests can enjoy wholesome, organic breakfasts cooked to order, unwind in peaceful courtyard gardens with fresh coastal air, and relax in Scandinavian-inspired, minimalist rooms before exploring Swakopmund’s nearby beaches and town center.

The rest of the day is yours after breakfast. Explore the shops or stroll along the promenade in town. Those who wish to follow in the footsteps of the “Little Five” you have the option of booking a scenic flight, a trip to Cape Cross, a catamaran cruise, or a desert safari. There are many restaurants to choose from in the area for dinner at night (own expense).

Stay at Organic Stay Guesthouse

Overnight at Organic Stay Guesthouse

Saying farewell to the Atlantic seaboard, we travel inland to the 700 million years old Spitzkoppe know for it’s granite dome-like peaks. These natural structures can be seen from a distance as they rise up 1730 metres above sea level. Continue your adventure to the Erongo Mountains region, where a unique cultural encounter awaits at the San Living Museum. Immerse yourself in the traditions of one of Namibia’s oldest tribes, learning about their hunter-gatherer lifestyle on a captivating bush walk. Admire authentic rock paintings and gain insights into their deep connection with nature.

Stay at Otjohotozu Guest Farm

Your journey culminates at the charming Otjohotozu Guest Farm, where you can freshen up before embarking on a scenic sundowner drive. Witness the beauty of the surrounding landscape while learning about its diverse ecosystem. Savor a delicious dinner and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep under the starlit African sky.  Set at the foot of the scenic Erongo Mountains near Omaruru, Otjohotozu Guest Farm is an authentic, family-run Namibian farmstead surrounded by wild bushveld and dramatic granite rock formations. Guests can explore scenic hiking trails along the dry Omaruru River, encounter wildlife like giraffes and Kudus on guided nature drives, enjoy home-cooked meals featuring fresh farm produce, and relax by the pool under starry night skies.

Prepare for a day of cultural immersion and natural beauty! Journey northwest to the fascinating Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at ancient rock engravings, a testament to Namibia’s rich history dating back thousands of years. Delve deeper into the region’s cultural heritage at the Damara Living Museum, where you’ll experience the traditions and lifestyle of the Damara people. Witness their craftsmanship, be captivated by their dances, and enjoy the melodies of their songs.

Stay at Malansrus Tented Camp

As the day progresses, arrive at the picturesque Malansrus Tented Camp, nestled amidst stunning scenery. Unwind and embrace the tranquility of this idyllic retreat, where comfort and natural beauty intertwine. Nestled along the banks of a dry riverbed in Damaraland with sweeping views of the Aba-Huab Valley, Malansrus Tented Camp provides a luxurious, eco-friendly base for exploring northern Namibia’s rugged wilderness. During your stay, you can set out on guided game drives in search of desert-adapted elephants, marvel at ancient rock engravings at nearby Twyfelfontein, and unwind in spacious canvas tents equipped with modern amenities and private viewing decks.

You will go to the arid Huab riverbed in the early morning hours in pursuit of the endangered desert elephants. You can take in Damaraland’s distinctive scenery and discover more about the locals’ way of life while on the journey. If you’re lucky, you may observe elephants that have adapted to the desert; they are marginally smaller than elephants found in Etosha National Park.

Stay at Malansrus Tented Camp

You then make your way back to Malansrus Tented Camp. You can anticipate enjoying yet another delectable dinner and drift off to sleep to the sounds of nature.

One of the most well-known national parks in Southern Africa, Etosha National Park was established in 1907 and is the destination of your travel today. The majority of your game viewing experience will be spent around the waterholes frequented by giraffes, elephants, rhinos, and several antelope species. You could even be able to see lions and leopards if you’re lucky.

Stay at Etosha Village

Following a plethora of thrilling sightings, you depart from Etosha in the late afternoon at the Anderson Gate, arriving at your overnight destination, Etosha Village, in a matter of minutes. After a satisfying dinner and a refreshing drink at the bar, celebrate the end of the day with plans for further safari explorations. Etosha Village offers an authentic safari experience set within a primeval mopane forest. Guests can embark on guided game drives through the national park to view diverse African wildlife, relax beside three sparkling swimming pools, and savor traditional Namibian buffet dining across three unique open-air seating areas.

Our day begins after daybreak with a hearty breakfast, before preparing ourselves for more game viewing. We drive along the salt pan that spans nearly a fourth of the whole park and is Etosha’s most unique feature. You will most likely spot herds of zebra, gnus, oryx and impalas that roam the Etosha National Park. We leave the park in the evening at the Van Lindequist Gate and head to our luxury en-suite tents for an indulgent overnight stay.

Stay at Mushara Bush Camp

Situated just ten kilometers from the eastern gate of Etosha National Park, Mushara Bush Camp offers an intimate, child-friendly safari getaway set within a peaceful mopane forest. Guests can venture out on thrilling wildlife drives into Etosha, unwind beside the swimming pool on the thatched veranda, and enjoy farm-style meals served around a open-air campfire in the evening.

This morning, you begin your day by waking up early and embarking on a game drive in Etosha National Park after breakfast. The safari experience is always different and full of surprises. You are likely to spot animals you have not seen for some time – every day is different and exciting. Your journey now takes you further south, leaving the Etosha region. From a distance, it will be possible to see the Waterberg and its steep, red cliffs.

Stay at Waterberg Guest Farm

The Waterberg Guest Farm is located at the foot of the Small Waterberg Mountain. Upon arrival, you may have the opportunity to go on a hike and explore the beautiful surroundings, or you may simply wish to relax by the pool and enjoy the quiet of the surroundings. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Waterberg Plateau, Waterberg Guest Farm offers a warm, family-run atmosphere set within a sprawling cattle farm and conservation area. Guests can embark on guided drives to view rare wildlife and cheetahs at the nearby CCF, hike scenic trails up the red sandstone cliffs, and enjoy home-cooked Namibian farm cuisine in a tranquil, nature-rich setting.

As your incredible 13 day Namibian safari draws to a close, savor the final moments of this unforgettable journey. Arrive back in Windhoek, the vibrant capital city, with a heart full of cherished memories. If time allows, delve into the Namibian Craft Centre, a treasure trove of handcrafted souvenirs, intricate baskets, unique accessories, and stunning jewellery. Alternatively, relax at a nearby café and soak up the atmosphere as you observe the daily life of Windhoek’s friendly locals. Depending on your onward travel plans, your guide will then escort you to the airport for your departure or to a lodge of your choice in Windhoek. Bid farewell to this captivating country, its diverse landscapes, and its warm-hearted people, with hopes of a return visit in the future!