tour for namibia

Your Namibia tours and safaris start here

Experience a country like no other

Explore Namibia with us

We take you on authentic journeys across Namibia – we not only plan and book your trip, but are on the ground, right where you need us.

Guided Lodge Tours

Travel with your local guide and relax at guest houses and lodges.

Small Group Tours

Lodge and camping experiences for budget-conscious travellers.

Self-Drive Tours

The road trip experience: Travel independently in your rental car.

Luxury Tours

Enjoy the luxury of remoteness and privacy on exclusive journeys.

Private Tours

Private custom experiences for you and your family and friends only.

Guided Camping Tours

Your million-star experience sleeping in a tent in the middle of nature.

Hiking Trips

Hiking experiences for every fitness level - one-day or multi-day trips.

FEEL THE TRUE MAGIC OF NATURE

To experience the magic of Namibia is to discover an entirely different world, a strange and beautiful place unlike anything or anywhere you’ve ever imagined. To see and feel this awe-inspiring part of southern Africa in all its glory, book your trip with Namibia-Experience. It is a place of contrasts, where sparse, arid, inhospitable, and other-worldly landscapes somehow support an incredible array of wildlife and a number of fascinating cultures. It is a place of seemingly endless horizons and perhaps the biggest skies you’ll ever see. It is a largely unspoilt place, roughly four times the size of Britain but with a total population of just over two million. It is a place of incredible geological and ecological diversity, with a rich natural and human history. Join us in Namibia for a journey of discovery!

A big compliment to the whole team: the trip was planned perfectly, and everything worked out wonderfully. Our guide was very knowledgeable and taught us a lot about the country, its geology, its flora and fauna. We are amazed by Namibia’s landscapes, its wide horizons, solitude, and of course the wildlife. We hope it hasn’t been our last trip to Southern Africa!

DISCOVER NAMIBIA’S WILDERNESS AREAS

The majestic dunes of Sossusvlei towering like burnt orange waves above you, the myriad of wildlife congregating around the waterholes on the edges of the great moon-like expanse of the Etosha Pan. Ancient rock art telling tales of times gone by against the dramatic backdrop of the landscapes of the Damaraland, lush and wildlife-rich national parks teaming with safari adventures in the Zambezi Region – Namibia’s wilderness areas are the places to experience the true meaning of the great outdoors.

Caprivi Strip (Zambezi Region)

Lush, green and rich in wildlife - Namibia's hidden safari gem.

Desert elephants, ancient rock art and captivating landscapes.

Etosha National Park

The safari destination of Namibia: wildlife and waterholes.

Fish River Canyon

Dramatic sunsets across the second largest canyon in the world.

Star gazing, nature walks, sunset drives and stunningly rugged beauty.

Kaokoland (Kunene Region)

True wilderness areas in Namibia's remote north, off the beaten track.

Where wild horses roam and a diamond ghost town rests.

One of the most famous and exciting areas in Namibi Desert.

Namibia's "Adventure Capital" by the Atlantic Ocean.

A capital with small-town charm: cafés, museums & friendly locals.

DISCOVER ALL NAMIBIA HAS TO OFFER

Why travel with us.

You will plan your journey together with experienced travel consultants. So you spend less time researching, worrying and comparing, and more time living the experience.

A safari is only as good as the guide who accompanies you. Our local safari and tour guides will share their knowledge with you and let you see beyond picture perfect sunsets.

Enjoy the hospitality of Namibia at hand-selected camps, lodges, guesthouses, and guest farms. Where you are welcomed as guest, not just a room number.

Your wishes and desires are important to us. We make it our priority to listen to your ideas and suggestions when putting together a personalised itinerary for your dream holiday. So you will have the unique experience you were looking for.

We are small enough to care and provide you with personalized service but big enough to offer you competitive prices.

Trips To Inspire

Whether you prefer luxury or back to basics, a guided tour or a self-drive trip – our popular Namibia tours and safaris will take you on authentic trips across a country unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Fascinating Namibia

Places Windhoek, Kalahari, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Erongo Mountains, Damaraland, Etosha National Park, Waterberg Plateau

NAD 60,500 per person

Marvels of Southern Africa

Places Windhoek, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Etosha National Park, Zambezi Region, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

NAD 83,000 per person

The Namibia Family Tour

Places Windhoek, Namib Escarpment, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Etosha National Park, Otjiwarongo Area

NAD 61,500 (adults) | 54,000 (children) per person

Magnificent Namibia

Places Windhoek, Kalahari, Keetmanshoop, Fish River Canyon, Luderitz, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Erongo Mountains, Damaraland, Etosha National Park, Waterberg Plateau

NAD 88,000 per person

Namibian Explorer

Places Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Skeleton Coast, Damaraland, Etosha National Park

NAD 30,100 per person

Namibia’s Untouched North

Places Windhoek, Grootfontein, Etosha, Epupa Falls, Sesfontein, Hoanib Valley, Damaraland, Okahandja

NAD 58,900 per person

Namibia Highlights

Places Windhoek, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Spitzkoppe, Erongo Mountains, Damaraland, Etosha National Park, Waterberg Plateau

NAD 27,000 per person

The Best of Namibia

Places Windhoek, Kalahari, Fish River Canyon, Luderitz, Tiras Mountains, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Ugab Valley, Etosha National Park, Waterberg Plateau

NAD 46,000 per person

Highlights Windhoek to Victoria Falls

Places Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Etosha National Park, Kavango & Zambezi Region, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

NAD 49,000 per person

The North of Namibia

Places Windhoek, Erongo Mountains, Twyfelfontein, Grootberg, Epupa Falls, Kunene River, Etosha National Park, Okonjima Nature Reserve

NAD 40,000 per person

Namibia Highlights in Style

Places Windhoek, Okonjima, Onguma Reserve, Twyfelfontein, Erongo Mountains, Swakopmund, Namib Desert

NAD 76,500 per person

Highlights of Namibia and Botswana

Places Kalahari, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Etosha National Park, Zambezi Region, Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls

NAD 113,000 per person

Namibia’s Wild Side

Places Gamsberg, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Brandberg mountain, Damaraland, Palmwag, Grootberg, Etosha National Park

NAD 37,000 per person

Camping Adventure Kaokoveld

Places Khomas Highland, Etosha National Park, Kunene River & Ruacana Falls, Epupa Falls, Hoanib Valley, Palmwag Concession, Brandberg, Erongo Mountains, Spitzkoppe

NAD 48,500 per person

A Namibian Journey

Places Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Skeleton Coast, Damaraland, Etosha National Park, Waterberg Area

NAD 44,100 per person

A Taste of Etosha

Places Etosha National Park

NAD 11,600 per person

Discover Sossusvlei

Places Namib Desert (Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, Sesriem Canyon)

NAD 10,200 per person

Classic Etosha

Places Etosha National Park, Okonjima Nature Reserve

NAD 19,300 per person

Desert and Sea

Places Namib Desert (Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, Sesriem Canyon), Swakopmund, Spitzkoppe

NAD 13,800 per person

Etosha Wildlife Experience

Places Etosha National Park, Onguma Nature Reserve, Cheetah Conservation Fund, Waterberg Region

NAD 22,600 per person

Wonders of the Desert

Places Kalahari, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Spitzkoppe

NAD 19,000 per person

Footprints in Namibia

Places Waterberg, Etosha, Ugab Valley, Damaraland, Swakopmund, Sossusvlei, Namib Naukluft Park, Windhoek

NAD 58,000 per person

Tok Tokkie Trail

Places NamibRand Nature Reserve

NAD 9,380 per person

EXPERIENCE MORE WITH NAMIBIA-EXPERIENCE

Guided Tours

Self-drive Trips

Things To Do

Travel Advice

Experience Namibia with us

Speak to one of our local advisors, let's start planning your trip.

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• Africa Tours
• Namibia Tours

Namibia Tours and Holidays 2024/2025

Namibia is a great trip option if you’re in search of exciting wildlife tours. The country is home to a large cheetah population, along with a wide range of other big game. The country’s capital, Windhoek , is also worth a visit for its sandstone buildings and nearby Daan Viljoen Game Reserve. Or, head to the coastal beaches of Swakopmund .

• Namibia Travel Guide
• Best Time To Visit Namibia

55 Trips in Namibia with 114 Reviews

• Starts Windhoek, Namibia
• Ends Windhoek, Namibia

Discover Namibia - Lodges

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge, Resort & Camping
• Transport 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,223
• Special Deal (9%): - US$ 283
• Total Price from: US$ 2,940
• May 20 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 03 Only 6 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Etosha Safari Adventure, Self-drive

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Self-drive or vehicle rental & Wildlife safaris and game drives Self-drive or vehicle rental , Wildlife safaris and game drives , Active and outdoor & Getaways and short breaks 'data-more-tripid='32891'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Resort
• Transport 4WD Jeep & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,119
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 168
• Total Price from: US$ 951
• Jun 24 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 25 Only 3 seats left

Discover Namibia - Camping

• Accommodation Camping, Hotel, Resort & Lodge

4 Day Swakopmund & Sossusvlei Adventure

• Trip customizable
• Activities Wildlife & Nature and bush walks Wildlife , Nature and bush walks & Safari 'data-more-tripid='19560'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Age Range 5-79 yrs

Wonders of Namibia

• Activities Wildlife & Explorer Wildlife , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='6182'>+1 more
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 5,049
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 1,263
• Total Price from: US$ 3,786
• May 08 Only 1 seat left
• May 15 Only 10 seats left

Namibian Family Adventurer

• Activities Family & Wildlife Family , Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7639'>+2 more
• Accommodation Camping, Lodge, Hotel & Resort
• Age Range 9-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,448
• Special Deal (4%): - US$ 148
• Total Price from: US$ 3,300
• Jul 21 Only 3 seats left
• Aug 11 Only 5 seats left

Cycle Namibia

• Activities Mountain biking & Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Camping & Lodge
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,898
• Special Deal (14%): - US$ 538
• Total Price from: US$ 3,360
• Jul 14 Only 8 seats left
• Sep 15 Only 6 seats left

9 Day Etosha & Private Reserve Game Viewing Self-Drive

• Activities Wildlife & Wildlife safaris and game drives Wildlife , Wildlife safaris and game drives & Safari 'data-more-tripid='23522'>+1 more
• Accommodation Camping & Lodge

Premium Namibia

• Activities Luxury & Safari
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 6,215
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 932
• Total Price from: US$ 5,283
• May 18 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 15 Only 4 seats left

Namibia Lodge Safari

• Activities Active and outdoor & Cultural, religious and historic sites Active and outdoor , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer , Wildlife , Adventure & Safari 'data-more-tripid='22268'>+4 more
• May 07 Only 4 seats left
• May 21 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Cape Town, South Africa
• Ends Pretoria, South Africa

25-day Cape Town to Victoria Falls Kruger Camping

• Activities Explorer & Desert safaris
• Accommodation Camping, Lodge & Tent
• Transport 4WD Jeep, Ferry & Flight
• Age Range 18-75 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,175
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 835
• Total Price from: US$ 3,340
• May 11 10+ seats left
• May 25 10+ seats left

Namibia The Finest Way, Self-drive

• Activities Self-drive or vehicle rental & Wildlife safaris and game drives Self-drive or vehicle rental , Wildlife safaris and game drives & Active and outdoor 'data-more-tripid='36208'>+1 more
• Accommodation Lodge & Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle, 4WD Jeep, Boat & Bus
• Age Range 6-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,489
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 373
• Total Price from: US$ 2,116
• May 31 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 01 Only 3 seats left

• Ends Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Botswana & Victoria Falls Adventure

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4657'>+2 more
• Accommodation Camping, Hotel & Lodge
• Transport 4WD Jeep, Boat & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,599
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 520
• Total Price from: US$ 2,079
• Jul 27 Only 2 seats left
• Aug 03 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Mariental, Namibia

Beautiful Contrasts Of Southern Namibia, Private Tour

• Activities Wildlife safaris and game drives & Art and architecture
• Operated in English, German
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,282
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 492
• Total Price from: US$ 2,790

Traveling to Namibia? Chat with a local travel specialist in Namibia who can help organize your trip.

Namibia Tour Reviews

• FABIO HENRIQUE RIBEIRO DE CASTRO

Namibia - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Holidays to Namibia is an ideal for adventure seekers. It combines an attractive countryside and great animal-watching activities. This interesting country prides on several national parks inhabited by rich wildlife, magnificent landscapes of the Namib Desert and the largest canyon of Africa. A trip to Namibia also offer splendid vistas and exciting hiking opportunities. In addition, Namibia’s capital of Windhoek combines European architecture (a legacy of German colonial rule) and the charm of Africa.

Travel Highlights

• Take a safari to Etosha National Park to lay eyes on the diverse wildlife of this amazing country. There, you will see elephants, zebras, lions and other animals that gather around waterholes in great numbers.
• Visit the Namib Desert to experience ever-shifting sand dunes. Don’t miss Dead Vlei, a photogenic area with black trees surrounded by high dunes.
• To get acquainted with elephants, lions and black rhinos adapted to the desert conditions, head to Damaraland. Also, visit the Damara Living Museum to learn about the region’s traditional culture.
• Stop by the coastal area of Walvis Bay in November to observe migrations of whales.
• Discover some of the finest examples of African prehistoric art on the guided tour through Namibia’s highest mountain of Brandberg.
• In the south, visit the Fish River Canyon. The southern hemisphere’s largest canyon abounds with impressive cliffs. Zebras, klipspringer antelopes and black eagles inhabit the area.

Travel Tips

• Since public transport is inconsistent, rent a car to explore Namibian countryside efficiently.
• Banks in Namibia offer more favorable money exchange rates than exchange offices. Besides Namibia Dollar, you can use South African Rand. ATMs are available in major banks and their subsidiaries.
• Internet access is scarce and expensive (around 4 USD per hour). You should find internet cafes in tourist-oriented towns.
• Take basic precautions in towns to avoid scams.
• If you travel to northern regions of the country or in summer, take a preventive anti-malaria therapy.
• English is the official language in Namibia. German is also widely in use.
• Same sex display of affection is illegal in Namibia. 

Namibia has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Namibia before planning your tour. If you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Namibia, do check out our Namibia Travel Guide for more information.

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"With the world's biggest sand dunes, oldest desert, clearest night skies, ancient cultures and more wild animals than people, Namibia is truly extraordinary."

Travel Director

Admire the stark beauty of Sossusvlei's ancient backdrops

The blazing red dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert is one of the world’s most spellbinding landscapes. We’ll take you on a journey through the world’s oldest desert and climb the soaring Dune 45, to see the striking white clay pans and camel thorn trees set against the red dunes.

See the shimmering expanse of the Etosha Pan

‘Etosha’ means ‘great white place’, and the Etosha Pan certainly lives up to its name. This vast expanse of gleaming white salt covers a quarter of the Etosha National Park and is Africa’s largest salt pan. It’s even visible from space and our Namibia tours will take you up close to this surreal landscape.

Visit the Kalahari Desert

Feel the freedom of the open road as we venture deep into the Kalahari Desert of Namibia. Enjoy a scenic drive through the ancient red dunes, see the historic town of Rehoboth, and wander the famous forest of Quiver Trees, where the traditional San Bushmen of the desert make quivers to this day.

Peer into the depths of Fish River Canyon

Carved over millennia, Fish River Canyon is the largest canyon in Africa. We’ll take you to the edge of this ancient chasm formed by the winding Fish River, the longest river in Namibia. Walk along the famous hiking trail, and see the zebra, klipspringers and wild horses that roam through this giant ravine.

Spot the wildlife at Etosha National Park

Set amidst the vast desert landscapes, Etosha is one of the world’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries. We’ll take you on a Namibia safari tour to gain insight into this diverse ecosystem, discover the secrets of the bush, and see the unique, desert-adapted animals and birdlife that live within Etosha National Park.

Our top 5 things to do in Namibia

We’ll show you all the best things to do in Namibia, from climbing the ancient dunes of Sossusvlei, to seeing Etosha’s wildlife and exploring the depths of Fish River Canyon.

National Museum of Namibia ACRE

Located in the capital Windhoek, the National Museum of Namibia houses extensive collections on Namibian natural history, culture and archaeology. There are two display centres, with the the Owela Museum showcasing natural specimens and the Alte Feste Museum displaying Namibia’s colonial history.

Independence Memorial Museum

Set in Windhoek between two German colonial buildings, the Independence Memorial Museum displays the history of the anti-colonial resistance and the national liberation of Namibia. There are five floors, sharing history from the early resistance leaders of Namibia to the South African Border War and activities of the United Nations.

Owela Museum

The Owela Museum is part of the National Museum of Namibia, and focuses on the natural and cultural history of Namibia. You can find natural specimens, dioramas of village life and cultural artefacts. Owela is named after a traditional game played with pebbles, and you can watch and play with the locals outside the museum.

Best museums in Namibia

Our Namibia travel experiences take you to the country’s fantastic museums, from the history of Namibia’s struggle for independence, to the Owela Museum, where you can play traditional games with locals.

In Namibia, wild game refers to the animals of the bush like ostrich, impala, kudu, eland, oryx, zebra, crocodile, springbok and wildebeest. It’s often cooked on a barbecue (known as a braai in Namibia), and eaten in many ways, from sausages (boerewors) and steaks, to stews (potjiekos) and kebabs (sosatie).

This meat and vegetable stew is traditionally prepared in a three-legged cast iron pot and placed on an open fire for around four hours. Alcohol, such as beer, sherry or wine is added to the stew for extra flavor. The pot descends from the Netherlands, while the ingredients are influenced by South African and German dishes.

Kapana is one of Namibia’s favorite street snacks. It’s made from barbecued and seasoned meat, vegetables and chillies, served with doughy ‘fat cakes’ to soak up the juices. The fat cakes are made from yeast, flour and sunflower oil, and are one of the most delicious foods to try in Namibia.

Best Food in Namibia

Our Namibia holiday packages reveal the delicious cuisine of Namibia, from barbecued game and hearty stews, to warm and doughy fat cakes.

What to pack for Namibia

Adaptor plug

In Namibia, the standard voltage is 220 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type D and M. The standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Pack your binoculars for wildlife spotting in the Etosha National Park, and for stargazing in some of the clearest and darkest night skies in the world.

A scarf is one of the most useful items to pack for your Namibia trip. It protects you from the sun and keeps the desert sand out of your face.

Sunscreen & sunglasses

Namibia is located close to the equator, and you’ll need to protect your skin and eyes from the harsh sun, with UV protected sunglasses and SPF 30 sunscreen or higher.

Versatile clothing

The environment in Namibia ranges from the scorching plains to chilly nights in the desert. Pack a variety of layers so you can easily transition between climates.

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Nature Travel Namibia #1 of all Namibia tour operators

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CrissCross Namibia Safaris #7 of all Namibia tour operators

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People Tours And Safari #10 of all Namibia tour operators

People tours and safari, safari tours 17 – offered by people tours and safari.

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Namibia: Epic Safari

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Join a Bushman guide for a walk into the Namib Desert for insights about the insects and wildlife that thrive here and star gaze in the NamibRand Nature Reserve, one of the least light-polluted and naturally darkest places on Earth 

Explore the red-tinted dunes of Sossusvlei with an opportunity to climb Big Daddy, towering skyward at 1,066 feet tall and explore the desert by riding on the dunes aboard a two-person ATV vehicle, or embarking on a scenic jeep safari to explore the sights

TAUCK VALUES INCLUDE

Flightsee over the desert and dunes of Sossusvlei and the pristine coast of Namibia aboard a flight to Swakopmund, where seaside discoveries await on a kayaking excursion or catamaran cruise 

Go behind-the-scenes at a Wildlife Sanctuary where a hands-on visit promises personal encounters with baby baboons happy to interact with you

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Consistently robust – very full and active days, extended travel times, use of different modes of local transport, and a possibility of early starts.

Experiences of a lifetime

Embark on an epic 11-day journey to Namibia, home to the Big Daddy of sand dunes, desert landscapes alive with oryx, bat-eared foxes, zebras, lizards and more, pristine beaches that line the coast, and game reserves where rhinos flourish. A Bushman desert walk, behind the scenes visit to a wildlife sanctuary, ATV rides and more enable up close unforgettable discoveries.

The sand dunes of sossusvlei.

The Sossusvlei, a salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red-tinted sand dunes, is located in the southern part of the Namib Desert. Sossusvlei literally translates to "dead-end marsh," marking the place where the dunes come together to prevent the Tsauchab River from flowing into the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Here you'll find the Big Daddy of dunes, a veritable sand stairway of sorts soaring 100-stories up into the sky, sitting beside sand towers equally compelling. Venture up Big Daddy on foot with a local guide then ride aboard an ATV or a jeep for a closer look at the dunes, memorable ways to experience the wonder of it all.

Etosha National Park

One of the most accessible game reserves in Namibia, Etosha National Park is home to the Big Five and an ancient salt pan so vast it can be seen from outer space. Game viewing is extraordinary here, especially at the waterholes that permeate the park. The larger waterholes attract herds of zebra and springbok happy to mingle with Oryx and bathing elephants. You'll come upon big cats too, leopards hiding in the brush, fleet-footed cheetahs and lions lapping up the water with other animals nearby, including the endangered black rhino, one of the best places in the world to see them.

Starry Nights at Kwessi Dunes

Kwessi Dunes is located deep within the private NamibRand Nature Reserve, offering guests unique access to the Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world, and nights of starlight you'll not soon forget. Twelve air-conditioned chalets with canvas walls cater to your comfort during your stay, and include a separate star gazing room that's completely open to the night sky above for unprecedented views of star, constellations and galaxies that are literally out of this world – in one of the least light-polluted regions in the world.

Hands On with Baby Baboons

Naankuse wildlife sanctuary.

Your safari adventure includes a unique opportunity to meet and interact with baby baboons on a private behind-the-scenes visit to the Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary provides a home to a wide variety of animals and birds, including meerkats, mongooses and rock hyraxes, along with monkeys, lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, and more.

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Overnight Accommodations

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The weinberg hotel, kwessi dunes, the strand hotel, ongava lodge etosha.

Nights 9-10

Omaanda Lodge

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a valid passport to enter Namibia. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the scheduled departure date and a minimum of 3 blank pages to enable the entry visa to be issued. American and British citizens can currently receive tourist visas on arrival with no requirement for pre-arrangement. A maximum of 90 days is granted for a tourist visa.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact a consulate or embassy of each of the countries visited on this itinerary to determine what travel documentation is required.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by CareFree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $769 per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $600 per person

89-8 days before departure = $1250 per person

7-1 days before departure = $2000 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE:  Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Carry-on Luggage - General

To help in your packing, Tauck will provide each guest with a large rolling duffel bag. The duffel bag has been specially designed to provide more than adequate space for essential items needed while on safari.  All of the accommodations on this tour have laundry services. Please Note: Packing lightly is recommended as the Tauck-issued duffel bag will be the only piece of luggage allowed with you on safari.  Strict limitations on our on-tour flights require that each guest take only one piece of soft-sided luggage (the duffel bag) weighing no more than 44 pounds, or 20 kilograms. Soft-sided luggage is required to ensure your piece fits into irregularly shaped luggage compartments. The duffel bag will be sent to your home and should arrive approximately two weeks prior to your departure for Africa. 

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for safari vehicle travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern safari vehicles offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, valuables, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the seat must be stored in the luggage truck, and will be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Immigration authorities in some nations require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter those countries. These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information possible vaccination requirements, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here  and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here . You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting. Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site. It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective. Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.

If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Please note that all Tauck guests will dine at Tauck Designated tables for meals. The majority of meals while on safari, are buffet due to the international guests that stay at the lodges.

All travelers to Africa should be in reasonably good health. There is a significant amount of walking on this tour, frequently in warm weather, as well as climbing in and out of safari vehicles and frequent air travel. We strongly advise that guests who require assistance walking or travel with oxygen tanks may not fully enjoy this very active journey.

There are certain rules and regulations that one should be aware of while on  safari. It is important that you listen to your tour director, local guide or  ranger, as they are trained to be aware of the environment around them.

Guests should be aware that while on safari, you will be traveling in smaller  groups and will travel on small bush planes and/or helicopters.

Guests will share smaller safari vehicles, where they will be required to rotate  not only safari guides, rangers and cars, but also seats within the car. Please  note that there are limited medical facilities, and guests will not have  exclusive use to a vehicle should they need special attention or consideration.

The safari vehicles are not air conditioned. The cars have six window seats, and  many are open air cars for animal viewing. Please note that the areas traversed  on game drives are typically unpaved and will often be bumpy and dusty.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES: This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey. Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.

Guests should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues. The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Winter (May to September) – Temperatures range in the interior from 18C to 25C during the day. Below freezing and frost are common at night.

Summer (October to April) – Average temperatures range from 20C to 35C during the day and temperatures above 40C are often recorded in the extreme north and south of the country. At the coast the temperature is generally much cooler, ranging from 15C to 25C, and fog is common. 

Rainfall – Early rains may occur from October onwards and the main rainy season falls between January and April. During this time flash floods are common.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

Generally, lightweight, cotton, short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts, shorts and long pants are sufficient. A jacket, fleece, or windbreaker, as well as layers of clothing, are suggested for cooler temperatures during early morning game drives, especially from May to September, and for evenings. A bandana or cotton scarf will always come in handy.

For the welcome and farewell dinners, and for dining in the larger cities, many guests like to dress up, but by all means be comfortable.

While on safari you may wish to wear natural earth-colored clothing, such as khakis, tans, browns, and greens mainly to show less of the dust you will encounter.  However, it is not necessary and you can wear any color clothing on safari. Comfortable closed-toed walking shoes are essential especially when walking in the sand of the desert. It is also a good idea to bring a swimsuit, wide brim hat, sunscreen, sunglasses (a necessity and preferably polarized), and lip protection. 

Game drives can be dusty, so wear something that can be washed while on safari. Valet service is available at all lodges and hotels.A personal kit with medication for possible upset stomach, aspirin, and allergy medicine may also be useful. If you are taking prescription drugs, bring a prescription signed by your doctor in case you need an emergency refill while traveling. Insect repellent with DEET is a very important item to include in your kit. Pre-moistened towelettes, antibacterial lotion, and a flashlight will also be useful on your safari.

Pack your medical kit in your carry-on bag along with an extra pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses and a change of clothes in case of luggage delay.

For viewing wildlife, we recommend you bring a good pair of binoculars and your own photography supplies, such as plenty of film, batteries, a 200mm telephoto lens, lens cap, lens papers, UV filter and, for video-recording, an adequate supply of video cassettes.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts 
• Smart casual evening wear for welcome and farewell dinners
• Sunglasses (preferably polarized), sunscreen, wide brimmed hat 
• Swimwear 
• Undergarments for entire tour as some camps will not launder underwear.  Sports bra recommended for game drive as roads can be bumpy
• A sweater and fleece or windbreaker jacket for cold early morning and evenings 
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably) 
• Insect repellent 
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, closed-toed sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in – tennis shoes or hiking shoes are fine
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm functions 
• Rain poncho 
• Daypack for camera equipment 
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

Please refer to the Necessary Gear website at  www.necessarygear.com  as one option available to you for renting and purchasing apparel, PPEs, and other items appropriate for your journey.

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Namibia Reviews & Ratings

Above all else fun time with guide.

Botswana Adventure, August 2019. Loved: the trip, adventure, guide Tshepo, driver Moses. So informative, great culture immersion, great game viewing, fun accommodati...

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I loved it! Namibia is a beautiful country and it was such a great experience to see it with this tour. The places where we stayed were lovely and the people were very nice. The only maybe advice I can give is to have a better communication between company and tour guide. I and another girl had dietary requirements and he was not aware on the first day. Because of this, he had to go get a different lunch than he had prepared already. I also expected the company to communicate with the tour guide that I had a flight on the last day, since they asked me that. He was also not aware of this. I thought he would know, so this made it a little stressful on the last night to arrange this.

6 Day Dunes & Wildlife Accommodated Safari

A wonderful tour. The tour description is precise, and we actually went through like that. Like the most tours, you'll probably need to ask something to them, but they were responsible almost all the time, which was helpful. Accommodations are very satisfiable. Of course, they're not like 5 star hotel, but are high quality given the places we visit. I liked especially 2nd to 5th nights. As others mentioned, we need to spend lots of time driving without music, but I feel that was inevitable to visit across the country. Still, what I was amazed the most was the guide. Gideon, our guide, prepared pretty meals every time, explained well about everything, spotted animals quickly in the safari, drove with safety, and clean the bus every day. Thank you for the experience

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My husband and I had an incredible experience in Namibia thanks to Kalus our wonderful guide/driver for the safari. We were lucky to go with Kalus, he made finding wild animals appear easy, giving us the opportunity to see many different animals, stunning landscapes and be in time to our overnight spots. We have been on a number of safaris across Africa and this counts as one of the best trips of our lives.

Namibia Explorer (Accommodated) - 10 Days

I had the best our of Namibia with my guides

Discover Namibia - Camping

Pre-tour information For the most part, the pre-tour information on the itinerary, transport, accommodation, excursions, conditions and so on was fairly accurate. There are three points where changes are needed. 1. Temperatures. Our tour started at the beginning of October, on the cusp between the colder winter months and the hot summer. It was much hotter than I expected with daytime temperatures reaching or exceeding the mid to high 30s most days. My impression that it would be cooler than this was reinforced by the Swakopmund temperature chart you include in the trip notes. From this I expected mid teens to low 20s. I did not know that Swakopmund is by far the coldest place that we visited. If you are going to show any temperature charts, these should be representative of the general conditions that travellers are likely to experience in Namibia as a whole. The tour was actually run by a local company, Mabaruli and I found this statement on their website: “October is the hottest month in Namibia with temperatures above 40°C”. Why was that information not added to the Exodus website? If I had known that in advance I seriously doubt that I would have chosen October for this tour. 2. Activity level. The trip was described as “Leisurely/Moderate” and at level 2 on a 10-point scale. There is no way that this is accurate. While there is a lot of time spent sitting in the truck doing nothing more than looking out of the window, when activity is required it was very tiring in the heat of the day. Bear in mind that there is no upper age limit for this tour and I think that everyone on our tour was over 50. What might be leisurely for a 20 year old may not be for a septuagenarian like me. 3. Initial meeting. There was no information on the time and place of the initial tour meeting on day 1. This should be specified clearly and unequivocally. Then everyone would know what to do and could arrange their travel plans around this meeting. Itinerary Overall I was satisfied with the itinerary. Maybe some minor tinkering is needed (eg. two hours at the craft market on day 12 was too long) but there were no major deficiencies. Staff There were three staff: Ronney, the tour leader, and two camp assistants, Happy and Jonas. Ronney was responsible for the overall arrangements, acting as guide while on the road, and as the full-time driver. This is too much for one person and it is no wonder that he was somewhat grumpy at times. One of the camp assistants should be a qualified driver and be able to relieve the tour leader of some or all of the driving responsibilities. Happy and Jonas were responsible for preparing the meals, setting up and breaking camp. Both were lovely blokes, always ready to help with a smile. Happy was a bit reserved at first but warmed up after a few days. Transport The truck was quite comfortable and reasonably roomy with two spare seats that were used for excess luggage (backpacks and so on). However, it was not well designed for the purpose. There were two pairs of windows at the front, above the driver's cabin. However, there was a wide solid horizontal panel between them that was exactly at eye level for anyone of normal height. As a result, forward vision was very limited. That is a ridiculous design for a safari truck. The roof opened for “game viewing” but there was nowhere near enough room for all of the passengers and we had to stand on the seats to get high enough to see. I don't know what can be done about this but the truck was certainly not fit for the purpose. We saw other trucks on our travels where everyone could simply stand up and see. Such trucks should be used for future tours. The trip notes say “People are expected to move around to permit everyone a chance to have a window seat.” One couple hogged the prime position (the front left seats) for the entire tour and declined to move. Allegedly this was because one of them suffered from travel sickness. The tour leader should have been more assertive, insisting that everyone got a turn in that prime position. People who suffer from travel sickness should not go on tours that will exacerbate their condition, or take suitable medication to combat the problem. A couple of days into the tour I noticed that one of the rear tyres was totally worn out, with the canvas showing through. The truck should never have been sent out in that condition. A couple of days later a tyre blew out but it turned out to be a new tyre that had been installed to replace the bad one, probably while we were in Swakopmund. It took an hour for the spare tyre to be put on. This blew out within 15 minutes so clearly the spare tyre were not in a suitable condition. We limped the rest of the way to Sophienhof camp with this flat tyre. The next day we were dumped in Outjo while four new types were being obtained. We were told this would take two hours. It took more than four hours, with no communication from the tour leader in the meantime. I realise that time is a bit elastic in Namibia but that is no excuse for keeping us in the dark. We had no choice but to sit and twiddle our thumbs waiting where we were told we would be picked up. We missed half a day in Etosha, the most important tourist destination in Namibia. Hotels The Prost Hotel in Swakopmund was perfect. Beautiful rooms, great breakfast and well situated close to the centre of town. The two hotels in Windhoek were not so good and the logic for using a different starting and finishing hotel was unclear. I would prefer that the starting and finishing hotel were the same. The Arebbusch Lodge is too far from the centre of town. However, this was not my major objection. Near the restaurant and bar there is a very nice pool area with umbrellas, tables, chairs and loungers. This was off-limits to us, being reserved for residents in “The Square”. The pool that we could use was small, a bit dirty, far away, and lacked umbrellas, tables, chairs and loungers. It was totally inadequate. You should not patronise a hotel that practises such blatant discrimination against some of its guests. The Utopia Boutique is also inconvenient in its location, really not near to anything. Moreover, it was disappointing to find that some of our group had nice, airy rooms around the pool area while others (including us) had small dark rooms with no view at all except for a blank wall. We are all on tour together, paying the same price, and should have similar accommodation. If the Utopia Boutique cannot satisfy this requirement, then go somewhere else, preferably within safe walking distance from the centre of Windhoek. When we arrived at the Utopia Boutique mid-afternoon there was a noisy party going on next door but we were told that if it wasn't quiet by 9 pm reception would call the police. The trouble was, reception closed at 8 pm and there was nobody around to take action. Eventually, at 10.30 pm, I found a security guard who said he would phone the manager who would then phone the police. The management should have made sure that someone was available in reception at 9 pm to deal with the noise if it was continuing. Maybe the partying was a one-off event and would not happen again but the hotel should have made sure that we were not disturbed. Campsites The campsites were a mixed bag. The first one, Sesriem, was quite poor. Our site was a long walk from the bar, shop and restaurant. The pool was a bit closer but it was so poorly maintained that it was uninviting. The toilet and shower block closest to our site was in very bad condition. The two sites in Etosha were acceptable, while Solitaire and Sophienhof were both very good. Brandberg was nice except that it was a very long and dusty walk to the bar and pool area. The worst one was Waterberg. While the campsite itself was fine, to get to the bar and pool involved a very long walk up hill. And when you finally arrived, the pool was an absolute disgrace, full of slimy green algae. Meals The meals provided were generally good to exceptional, particularly the dinners where Happy and Jonas went to great efforts to provide variety and to allow for the special dietary requirements of two of our group. Quantity was never an issue; sometimes the amount left over was something of an embarrassment in a country where there are some very poor people. There is one meal that requires special mention, and that is the dreadful buffet dinner at Waterberg. This was not included in the tour and turned out to be the worst, and most expensive, meal that we had in Namibia. With nowhere else to eat, and nothing on offer apart from the buffet, we had no choice. This should definitely be deleted in future, substituting an included dinner at one of the other campsites such as the ones in Etosha. Paid excursions We went on two excursions in Swakopmund. In the morning we chose the Sossusfly joy flight. We had high expectations of this flight, especially considering the very high price of $N460 each for just over 2 hours. We were quite disappointed, especially by the Skeleton Coast which was obscured by fog. I suspected that this was a common occurrence and later found out that there is fog for 4 days out of 5. Another problem was that what you saw depended on which side of the plane you were on. Usually, in these types of flights, the pilot makes sure that everything is seen by passengers on both sides. You should not be recommending this flight. In the afternoon, we went on Charly's Namib Desert tour. The minibus was very comfortable and Borden, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable and likeable. It was a terrific four hours. We travelled through the 'moonscape' where we were told about the history, geology, flora and fauna. The main focus was on the plants and they were presented in an interesting and informative manner. There were plenty of stops to photograph the weird landscape. Overall we were extremely satisfied with this tour. Ron Duggleby October 2018

9 Day Etosha, Skeleton Coast and Sossusvlei Camping & Lodge Safari * DEPARTING SATURDAYS

7 Days / 6 Nights Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and Etosha National Park ( Comfort)

John was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable, safe, and had eagle eyes for spotting animals. All the accommodations were clean, spacious, and comfortable. We had a lot of fun throughout the trip from climbing dunes to spotting animals.

Discover Namibia - Lodges

Our Namibia tour was terrific. Such a diverise landscape from extreme deserts to amazing animals in Etosha. Most of the accomodations were good except for one but we had a terrific time. When we finished the tour, we found the world had changed drastically due to the virus.

10 Day Discover Namibia Small Group Safari

My daughter and I did the 9 day discover Namibia tour and had a fantastic time. The itinerary and accommodations were great, and our guide Willem was fantastic. He was extremely knowledgeable, patient, and accommodating; we could not have asked for a better guide. Namibia is a beautiful country; we would love to return.

11 Day Classic Namibia Highlights

5 Days / 4 Nights Namibian Adventure (Camping)

Great experience and was pleasantly surprised how nice the camping accommodations were. Great tour guide (Lucas) who was always looking out for our safety and well-being. We also appreciated Lucas’ flexibility and Discovery tours willingness to accommodate our vegan diet and also making sure what we paid for through Across Africa Tours was met. Appreciated they were upfront and clear on the expectations and what was included and not included in the package. It was nice they ensured we always had enough food.

Private 10 Days Beauty of Namibia - Lodges

You will not regret it

Tailor-Made Private Namibia Desert Adventure, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Namibia

A wonderful tour. The tour description is precise, and we actually went through like that. Like the most tours, you'll probably need to ask something to them, but they were responsible almost all the time, which was helpful. Accommodations are very satisfiable. Of course, they're not like 5 star hotel, but are high quality given the places we visit. I liked especially 2nd to 5th nights. As others mentioned, we need to spend lots of time driving without music, but I feel that was inevitable to visit across the country. Still, what I was amazed the most was the guide. Gideon, our guide, prepared pretty meals every time, explained well about everything, spotted animals quickly in the safari, drove with safety, and clean the bus every day. Thank you for the experience

The group makes the trip good. The CEO was good with all the information he gave on daily basis whether it was on logistics or other tour related. The driver was very care and knew not only about driving but was able to fix problems given the long distance driving. All in all the tour pretty much covered the highlights of Namibia. We enjoyed the tour and the group and recommend it to others.

Regions in Namibia

• Sossusvlei (78)
• Etosha National Park (65)
• Skeleton Coast (6)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
• Best time to visit Namibia in 2024/2025
• Best 10 Day Namibia Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Ultimate Namibia Itinerary: Self-Drive Road Trip (+ Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: August 14, 2023

Namibia is a beautiful country that requires some slow traveling to truly appreciate it. It’s also a place that requires quite some advance research in order to make the most of your trip.

Planning a self-drive road trip in Namibia might look overwhelming at first. Distances are big, the roads aren’t great, and the accommodations are scarce and expensive…

So you are absolutely right looking for ideas for the Namibia itinerary and suggestions on how to best plan your road trip in advance!

We also struggled with the same questions before our trip. After a lot of research, we created an amazing itinerary and spent 4 weeks road-tripping in Namibia. It was the best road trip ever!

Below, you can find our detailed day-to-day Namibia road trip itinerary that covers all the must-see places and so much more. Our trip was very easy-going, so we also included suggestions for how you can see just as much in less time. You can also find Namibia itinerary tips for shorter trips. Find out!

Things to Consider When Preparing Namibia Itinerary

No matter how much time you have in Namibia, you will have to make choices when preparing your itinerary.

Here are a few things to consider:

• There are very few highways in Namibia and most other roads are gravel. So you will – literally – need to slow down. That being said, it doesn’t mean that you need a month to see Namibia. In fact, many ‘standard’ Namibia trip itineraries are no longer than 10 or 14 days.
• The distances between the main highlights are very big, so you cannot just visit the ‘top’ places and skip all the rest unless you opt for a fly-in safari.
• When planning your trip , you’ll have to decide if you want to visit more places at a fast pace or travel slower and see more at fewer locations.
• Before preparing your itinerary, consider if you also want to visit the South (Fish River Canyon) and/or the North (Caprivi Strip) of the country. Both these destinations are so far from all the rest that just driving there and back will add at least a few days to your trip.
• Another possibility is to combine your Namibian road trip with Botswana and Victoria Falls. But only do this by car if you have a lot of time.
• Or maybe you decide to just stick to the main highlights of Namibia and skip the less known locations… In that case, you can even see ‘the musts’ in a week.

The choice is completely yours to make depending on your interests, time, budget, and some other factors, like malaria risk, for example.

There are two main highlights that you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Namibia and that is Etosha National Park and Sossusvlei . Other highlights include Fish River Canyon , Kolmanskop , Swakopmund , and Twyfelfontein . But there are many other amazing places.

Having said all that, some of the very best, memorable experiences from our trip to Namibia had nothing to do with the most famous places… In our itinerary below, you can read all about it.

LEARN MORE: Best Places to Visit in Namibia

Our Namibia itinerary for 4 weeks

Before we continue with our Namibia road trip itinerary, you should know that this is a custom-made 4-week road trip itinerary that covers all of Namibia except the north. We prepared this Namibia itinerary for our family based on our interests and taking into account the fact that we were traveling to Namibia with three young children under 6.

Of course, we included all the landmarks and made sure to visit all the best places in Namibia! But we opted for multiple nights at several locations and for shorter driving days when we could. Also, we didn’t go to the Caprivi Strip in order to avoid malaria risk.

TIP: You could easily shorten this Namibia itinerary and still see about just as much as we did in about 3 weeks. And certainly, if you are camping and are less dependent on the location of accommodations. You can find some itinerary suggestions for 2 or 3 weeks in Namibia at the bottom of this article. Read on!

Here’s our Namibia road trip itinerary exactly as we did it:

Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek. Windhoek – Kalahari Desert. Eningu Clayhouse Lodge for 1 night. 110 km – 2hrs.

After picking up the rental car where we also got a short instruction video about driving on gravel, we headed to Windhoek for a short city walk and to stack on supplies of food and drinks for the next few days.

TIP: Check this website for an overview of some of the best options for car rental and get a 4×4 for your Namibia trip.

We opted to spend our first night outside of the city. We stayed at Eningu Clayhouse Lodge in the Kalahari desert and I would recommend this to everyone. Not necessarily this specific lodge, but staying outside of the city.

We felt that we were in Africa the moment we left the highway. We saw wild animals next to the road and we spent our first afternoon in the hot tub. We saw an amazing sunset and spent our first evening dining under the stars.

TIP: Don’t stay in Windhoek. Choose one of the many lodges outside the city. If you decide to go straight down to the south and rather stay closer to the main road to Mariental, I recommend checking Auas Safari Lodge . It’s not too far from Windhoek and has great reviews! 

Day 2: Kalahari desert. Drive to Mariental. Gondwana Kalahari Anib Lodge for 1 night. 270 km, 4-5hrs.

Long drive through the Kalahari desert today. The scenery is nice, but there are no major points of interest along the way here, so we drove straight to our next accommodation.

We arrived at our next lodge, Gondwana Kalahari Anib Lodge , just in time for a late afternoon safari ride and a sundowner. It was the first one during this trip and we loved it! We got bitten by a sundowner bug and tried to go on as many sundowners as possible during the rest of our trip.

TIP: Don’t miss Namibian sundowners, do at least one! All lodges in Namibia organize sundowner/safari rides, so make sure you get to your lodge in time for the late afternoon ride.

Day 3 : Mariental – Fish River Canyon. Canyon Lodge for 2 nights. 410 km – 6hrs.

Long drive from Mariental to Fish River Canyon, but luckily the first part was on a tarmac road.

We stopped at the Quiver Tree Forest and made a short walk around the Giant’s Playground before continuing South towards the Fish River Canyon. The last couple of hours we were driving through the desolate and very uninspiring landscape, but the surroundings of our next lodge were so beautiful that we quickly forgot the long drive.

Our accommodation for two nights was a beautiful Gondwana Canyon Lodge – one of the nicest places we stayed during this trip!

A bit cheaper accommodation located in a similar spectacular setting is the nearby Gondwana Canyon Village .

TIP: If you are looking for accommodation with views over the Fish River Canyon, take a look at Fish River Lodge . It has an amazing location!

Day 4 : Fish River Canyon

There are many possibilities to explore the Fish River Canyon . You can also opt for some other excursions in the area. We simply chose to drive to the canyon and explore several viewpoints.

In the morning, we drove to a couple of lookouts and made a walk on the rim of the canyon.

TIP for families traveling with children: In the afternoon we headed to a nearby Canyon Roadhouse for lunch.

We chose this place because we knew our kids would love it there. They have a big collection of all kinds of old vehicles. A paradise for our boys!

In the evening, we opted for a sundowner walk at our lodge and enjoyed the most beautiful Namibian sunset in style.

Day 5 : Fish River Canyon – Klein Aus Vista. Desert Horse Inn for 2 nights. 290 km – 4hrs.

A long drive again with some beautiful landscapes along the way. Our lodge, Desert Horse Inn , was not half as nice as the previous one, but there wasn’t anything better available in this area when we traveled. Now I’d recommend staying at the highly-rated Bahnhof Hotel Aus .

There are lots of hiking trails in the area and so we spent the afternoon hiking. The walk was much nicer than we had expected.

TIP:   Go hiking in the area around Klein Aus Vista.

Day 6 : Klein Aus Vista – Luderitz/ Kolmanskop – Klein Aus Vista. 115 km – 1,5 hrs in one direction.

The highlight of the day was our visit to Kolmanskop . It’s a ghost town that was once the home to German diamond miners seeking to make their fortune in the Namibian desert.

Nowadays, Kolmansop is a real paradise for photographers. Our kids loved it too!

TIP: Go to Kolmanskop early in the morning for better pictures and fewer people.

We also paid a short visit to Luderitz , but found it a rather uninspiring little town. We also spent some time hoping to find the wild horses of Namib in Garub . No luck for us, but this place is known for that, so check it out if passing by.

Day 7 : Klein Aus Vista – Sossusvlei. Sossus Dune Lodge for 2 nights. 350 km – 5hrs.

Long ride from Aus to Sossusvlei, but it didn’t feel that long since we took the scenic route and drove through the most amazing landscape. Red sand roads, oryx antelopes, ostriches, and all kinds of other wild animals added plenty of distraction for the kids along the way.

TIP: Take route C27 and not C14+C19 – it might be slower, but it’s really worth it.

We opted to stay at the Sossus Dune Lodge as it’s the only lodge that is inside the park allowing the guests to get to the Sossusvlei before sunrise and after sunset. We went to Elim dune to watch the sunset. 

TIP:   Sossusvlei Lodge,  located just outside the park gates, is actually nicer accommodation and it’s cheaper too. The only disadvantage is that you can’t enter the park before sunrise.

Day 8 : Sossusvlei

Deadvlei, Sossusvlei, Dune 45, and the Sesriem canyon were the highlights today. Top day for the kids as well. They loved climbing the sand dunes and they loved rolling down the dunes even more…

We woke up very early and drove to Sossusvlei before sunrise. We then walked to Deadvlei in the dark and stayed there until sunrise. It was freezing cold, but an amazing experience. We had the popular Deadvlei all to ourselves.

TIP: If you are up for it, you can climb one of the dunes for sunrise views. Dune 45 along the way to Sossusvlei is a good place for that if you can’t make it to Sossusvlei or Deadvlei before sunrise.

Day 9 : Sossusvlei – Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge for 1 night. 140 km, 2 hrs.

TIP:   When driving from Sossusvlei to the north, stop at Solitaire petrol station/restaurant for some of their famous apple pie.

Most people drive from Sossusvlei all the way to Swakopmund in one day. We opted to break the long drive between Sossuvlei to Swakopmund and spend a night in Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge .

The lodge itself is not very special, but there are lots of excursion possibilities in the area and they have a meerkat encounter , which was again one of the highlights for the kids.

We ended the day with another beautiful sundowner ride and some incredibly delicious food. The restaurant at this lodge was probably the best of our entire 4-weeks trip in Namibia!

Day 10 : Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge – Swakopmund for 3 nights. 230 km – 3,5 hrs.

After 10 days in the desert, we were so glad to be back in the living world again! We stopped in Walvis Bay for lunch. We could even choose from more than one restaurant! What a luxury.

TIP: Walvis Bay Lagoon with thousands of wild flamingos was absolutely the highlight of the day. Don’t miss it!

We stayed in Swakopmund, alternatively, you can stay in Walvis Bay. The two towns are not far from each other, but we found that Swakopmund has a much nicer atmosphere, more hotel and restaurant choices, and more activities and day trips that leave from there.

We stayed at the Atlantic Sicht Apartment in Swakopmund and absolutely loved it. It was like a home away from home. 

Here you can find the best deals for Swakopmund accommodation  or Walvis Bay accommodation . This area is the only place in Namibia where you can find a big choice of quality accommodation for any budget.

Days 11 – 12 : Swakopmund and the area

Swakopmund is a nice little town with many shops, restaurants, and cafés. It’s definitely the nicest town in Namibia and 3 nights is certainly not too much for a stay here. In fact, you could easily stay here longer and find plenty of things to see and do.

TIP: Have lunch or dinner at the Village Café (Sam Nujoma Avenue).

There are many excursion possibilities in and around Swakopmund , so you will have no difficulties finding something that interests you. Here you can find some of the most popular tours from Swakopmund .

The most popular tours are the dolphin- and whale-watching catamaran tour from Walvis Bay, Moon Landscape and Welwitschia Drive , and 4×4 tour to Sandwich Harbour  (or this amazing kayaking and Sandwich Harbour combo tour ). There are many more possibilities too, but the above are worth your time the most.

TIP (just for our readers – don’t tell anyone ;)): Even though Spitzkoppe is not included in most Namibia trip itineraries, it’s one of our absolute favorite places in Namibia. It’s only 1,5 hrs drive from Swakopmund and you can make a nice half day-day trip to the area.

Take water, picnic lunch, and walking shoes with you and explore this beautiful area. If you are camping, Spitzkoppe has the most amazing campsites you could imagine. Don’t miss it!

You can drive there or take a tour to Spitzkoppe if you want a more relaxing day or don’t have a 4×4.

Day 13 : Swakopmund – Twyfelfontein via Cape Cross. 411 km – 6+hrs. Twyfelfontein Country Lodge for 1 night.

TIP: Leave Swakopmund early in the morning if you want to go to Cape Cross first. It’s a long drive to Twyfelfontein and Cape Cross is a bit out of the way. But it’s absolutely worth it!

Cape Cross is home to a huge seal colony (tens of thousands of seals live here) and you can get amazingly close to them. An experience like no other!

If you have time left, you can visit Petrified Forest on the road to Twyfelfntein or drive to the Burnt Mountain for sunset.

We stayed at Twyfelfontein Country Lodge – one of the very few lodging options in this area. Alternatively, check out Malansrus or  Madisa Camp  – both very unique tented accommodations, but Malansrus is a bit closer to Twyfelfontein.

Day 14 : Twyfelfontein – Palmwag. Palmwag Lodge for 2 nights. 115 km – 1h45.

Twyfelfontein UNESCO Heritage Site  is absolutely worth the visit. You will be assigned a guide who will take you to the cavemen’s paintings and will tell you all you want to know about ancient rock art.

TIP:  Go to Twyfelfontein early in the morning before it gets busy. The most recommended walk is the Lion Man Route . Take water with you.

If you are interested in the local culture, pay a short visit to the Damara Living Museum . It’s not an authentic experience as it’s not a real village you are visiting, but one with paid actors, but it’s still interesting to see how people used to live in the area.

We stayed 2 nights at Palmwag Lodge . A really nice alternative in this area is Grootberg Lodge , or otherwise a more simple accommodation – Etendeka Mountain Camp . 

Day 15 : Palmwag

Free day in the Palmwag area. There are several excursion and safari ride possibilities at the lodge.

We opted for the safari and Himba village tour and had the most amazing day. The Himba village we visited was not comparable to the Damara ‘living museum’ we saw the other day. We met a real Himba family, saw the way they really live, and the interaction with the people was real.

Our kids went to play with their children, they were chasing the goats and the chicken and seemed to be having the time of their lives. Safari in the Palmwag area was also one of the best ones of our whole trip.

TIP: Visit a local Himba village.

LEARN MORE: Visiting Namibia’s Indigenous Tribes

Days 16 – 19 : Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is one of the best places to see in Namibia. So make sure to plan at least 2-3 days here. Here’s what our time in Etosha looked like:

Day 16 – Palmwag – Etosha. Dolomite Camp for 1 night. 230 km – 3.5hrs Day 17 – Dolomite Camp – Okaukuejo. 180 km – 4hrs. Okaukuejo Rest Camp for 2 nights. Day 18 – Etosha. Day 19 – Etosha: Okaukuejo – Mushara. 153 km – 2h15

There are plenty of possibilities to see wild animals in Etosha. The best times are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and the best places are around the waterholes. The very best place to see lots of animals without much effort is the Okaukuejo waterhole.

READ ALSO: Safari Tips & Safari with Kids

We stayed at three hotels in Etosha NP: Dolomite Camp and Okaukuejo Rest Camp – government-run properties inside Etosha, and a beautiful Mushara Lodge outside the park. 

Etosha is absolutely the highlight of any Namibian trip, but I cannot say the same about the Dolomite Camp. It’s a beautiful but completely mismanaged place.

Okaukuejo Rest Camp  offers simple accommodation, but it has an amazing location that makes up for the simple rooms. 

Mushara Lodge  was absolutely incredible and we wished we had stayed longer there. 

LEARN MORE: Best Places to Stay in Etosha National Park

TIP: If you are looking for the best location for Etosha, stay at Okaukuejo Rest Camp or at one of the beautiful hotels just outside the park gates at Okaukuejo . If you want to stay at the eastern side of Etosha as well, I cannot recommend Mushara Lodge highly enough.

Day 20 : Mushara – Otjiwarongo area. 300 km – 4hrs. Frans Indongo Lodge for 2 nights.

The only place that was somewhat worth a visit on this day was Lake Otjikoto. It’s more of a place to stretch your legs a bit than anything else.

We stayed at the  Frans Indongo Lodge  for 2 nights. The area around Frans Indongo was not very spectacular, but it was well located for a day trip to see cheetahs next day.

There are several walking trails next to the lodge, but if I were to go to Namibia again, I would only stay here for one night (or find an alternative hotel).

Day 21 : Cheetah Conservation Fund and Crocodile Farm

Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) is a place you shouldn’t miss when planning Namibia road trip. It’s a serious honest project helping the animals and you have several possibilities to see cheetahs from close by. Count half a day for the visit.

TIP: If you are traveling without kids, try to get there for the Cheetah Run early in the morning. With children, we could go on a jeep ride and saw plenty of cheetahs from the safety of the car.

We also visited the Crocodile Ranch  in Otjiwarongo. You can see lots of crocodiles and even pet one so the kids liked it, but it’s not something you absolutely have to do. A good stop for half an hour for families passing by, but not more.

Days 22 – 23 : Erindi Private Game Reserve. Old Traders Lodge for 2 nights.

These two days were among the most memorable of the entire trip of 4 weeks in Namibia! Erindi is an amazing all-in safari lodge that truly has it all.

Day 22 : Otjiwarongo – Erindi Private Game Reserve. 270 km – 4 hrs. We drove to Erindi as early as we could so that we could join some of the activities on the first day already.

Day 23 : Erindi.  If there is one lodge I would love to go back to in Namibia, it’s Erindi Old Traders Lodge !

It was also the most expensive lodge on our Namibia itinerary, but absolutely worth it. We had an all-in package with two safari rides per day and all the meals included. There are many other activities that you can do in Erindi. Visiting the local San tribe was one of them, and also various safari rides, etc.

What we loved the most about our stay in Erindi was the restaurant terrace at the Old Traders Lodge. It overlooks a waterhole where we spent many relaxing hours eating cake, sipping cold drinks, and watching wild animals come and go.

If Erindi is above your budget, you can also just visit here for a day. The restaurant with the terrace overlooking a waterhole is accessible to everyone and they also offer safari rides and other activities to visitors who aren’t staying at the lodge. Erindi is a bit out of the way when driving from Etosha to Windhoek, but you’ll absolutely love it.

Day 24: Erindi – Windhoek. 220 km – 3hrs. Na’ankuse Lodge for 1 night.

Depending on your flight schedule, you could drive straight to the airport and skip Windhoek altogether on the last day.

We opted to stay at Erindi a bit longer and drove to Na’ankuse Lodge close to the airport towards the evening. The lodge proudly displays pictures of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie who visited here back when they were a couple.

This lodge also has all kinds of activities including wildlife watching and they also have cheetahs. But we only arrived here in the evening, too late for any rides. So we only had dinner at the lodge and I cannot comment on the activities, however, customer reviews are excellent.

Day 25: Windhoek and departure

Since we had plenty of time before our flight, we headed back to the center of Windhoek. It was a bit livelier than on the first day of our trip and we enjoyed walking around the Post Street Mall . It’s a pedestrian mall lined with shops, restaurants, office buildings, and craft sellers and is probably the liveliest place in town.

We had a quiet late lunch at the famous Joe’s Beer House in Windhoek and headed to the airport for the flight home.

As you can see, our Namibia trip itinerary was a mix of seeing a lot and a more relaxing vacation. As I said, you could easily visit all the same places in Namibia in less time. 

What could you skip or shorten? See our suggestions for a shorter Namibia itinerary below!

Namibia Trip Itinerary Suggestions for 2 or 3 weeks

Following our 4-week itinerary above, here’s how you could adjust it to make it shorter:

• If Kolmanskop is not of much interest to you, you could skip day 6 of the itinerary.
• You could visit Sossusvlei in the morning and leave the area that same afternoon. If you don’t mind driving a lot (and I mean a lot), you could go straight to Swakopmund and skip days 9 and 10. In any case, you can easily skip one day here.
• If you have limited time, you could stay just 2 nights in Swakopmund instead of 3, skip Palmwag altogether (it’s a bit out of the way if you don’t go to the Dolomite Camp), and spend less time in Etosha.
• You could also stay just one night in the Otjiwarongo area, see cheetahs in the morning and drive straight to Windhoek.
• If you opt to stay at Erindi or one of the many other private reserves in the area, you can stay there till the last day of your trip and go straight to the airport from there.

I know that planning the Namibia itinerary can be overwhelming and this is a lot of information to digest, so feel free to ask questions. You can leave a reply below.

TIP: When planning your trip, make sure to also take a look at our essential travel tips for Namibia via the link below. That article has all the information about driving in Namibia, what kind of car you need, and other tips for touring Namibia on a self drive trip. Check it out!

READ ALSO: Namibia Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Namibia? Get the most out of your trip with these tips:

• Best Places to See in Namibia
• Namibia Packing List
• Etosha Hotels
• Namibia with Kids
• Our Favorite Pictures from Namibia
• Best Camera Equipment for Safari

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Tuesday 19th of March 2024

Dear Jurga, Thank you for your article, it helped a lot with our planning. We will visit Namibia this summer with our 4 years old daughter and we had everything planned but unfortunately today we received an email from Erindi that they perform renovations which will last longer than expected and they had to cancel our reservation (beginning of August). So now i am looking for an alternative for 2 nights (we would have already spend 4 nights in Etosha and we want to spend two nights somewhere between Etosha and Windhoek). In your article you mention other private reserves in the area. Can you suggest any? Thank you Zafeira

Wednesday 20th of March 2024

@Jurga, Thank you, indeed i have checked some and either have 2 persons rooms or do not accept children below 6 years old - i will have a look to the ones you suggested as well and hopefully i will find something.

Once again thank you for the information.

Hi Zafeira, take a look at Okonjima Plains Camp or Okonjima Luxury Bush Camp. On a more affordable side, check out Ondudu Safari Lodge or Omurenga. On a lower budget, Omaruru Game Lodge looks great too. I'm just not sure how it works with 3 people sharing the room, so see what's possible for your family. I don't get it why so many lodges only have rooms for 2 people :(, but we found that most of them were accommodating enough to add an extra bed or mattress for a young child. It gets so much more complicated when your kids get older though... Anyway, hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Karin Eckhardt

Tuesday 5th of March 2024

Dear Jurga, I am so happy to came across your blog and have been reading it a lot. Very inspiring and love the pictures. I am planning my trip to Namibia in August with my son (will be driving by myself) and am struggling to make some final decisions. Would be great to hear your experience/suggestions. See day 7, 9 and Etosha. I can still change my depart from Windhoek 1 day later.

Day 1 Arrival Windhoek 11.00 / 1 night Day 2 >Sesriem / 1 night Day 3 > Solitaire / 1 night Day 4,5,6 > Swakopmund / 3 night Day 7 > Brandberg White lady lodge / 1 night However after booking I read about Spitzkoppe(which I don't want to visit as 1/2 day tour from Swakopmund as other activities planned) + San Living Museum Erongo/Omandumba. Wondering if it's realistic to visit both on our way to Brandberg? We wouldn't go hiking at Spitzkoppe, but do like to do a tour at San Museum. What do you think? If it's too much, I will try to move our whole schedule/bookings(challenging), and stay overnight around Spitzkoppe if it's worth it. But in case if I have to choose what do you think is nicer Brandberg or Spitzkoppe? Alternatively we could also stay 2 nights at Twyfelfontein country lodge. Day 8> Twyfelfontein country lodge Day 9, 10, 11 > Opuwo/ 3 nights Trying to visit Himba for the first time. Wondering if 3 nights is too much? Day 12 > Ondangwa Ongula homestead / 1 night Day 13> Namutoni NWR - 4 nights Etosho wondering if we should do 3 nights? if so which location should we skip? Or would you recommend to do 4 nights and rather stay 2 night at Okaukeujo and skip Namutoni NWR? Day 14 Namutoni Mushara lodge Day 15 Halali NWR Day 16 Okaukeujo Day 17 eod flighty to J'burg Hope to hear your thoughts, thank you Karin

Thursday 7th of March 2024

@Karin Eckhardt, Thanks again! Already postponed my flight to make it all happen. Reached out to Erindi, unfortunately they are closed due to big renovations. But will find an alternative. Enjoy all your future travels.

Wednesday 6th of March 2024

@Jurga, Thanks for your quick answer, really appreciated! Will take your advice on Etosha and Erindi. If we have to choose between Brandberg or Spitzkoppe, which one should we skip? Thanks

Hi Karin, first, I really have no time to look into your itinerary in detail or how it fits together, so just a few thoughts as you asked. Day 7, if you drive from Swakopmund to Spitzkoppe and San Living Museum to Brandberg, it's at least 6 hours of pure driving time. Plus, you'll need time to visit both places, even if just for half an hour or an hour. So it's a full day. Theoretically, it could work, but I would start very very early to make sure you don't have to drive in the dark. If all goes well, it's doable, but if you get any kind of delays, you won't have much daylight time to spare. Also, since you are the only driver, only you can feel what you are comfortable with. Days 9-11, two nights/one day could probably be sufficient depending on what you can actually do there. Etosha - If you can stay at Okaukuejo even for a night or two, it's well worth it. The rest depends on how much animal viewing you want to do. Some people see hundreds of zebras at one waterhole and are happy and others go on two safari rides for several days in a row and still don't have enough. So it's really up to you how much time you want to spend there. As for the lodges, it's good to have a mix of some simpler and nicer ones in between - some of our best memories from Namibia are from the nicest lodges we stayed at. Mushara is way nicer than Okaukuejo, but location wise, Okaukuejo would be my top choice over anything else in the area. Last day - I would stay somewhat closer to the airport and not do it from Etosha in one go. It's a long drive. We loved our stay at Erindi which is about halfway between the two. It was by far our favorite lodge in Namibia. Hope this helps. Good luck with the planning!

Sunday 14th of January 2024

Hi Jurga, Great article, I’m taking some inspo here! Would you recommend driving to Mariental area and spend the first night there? I and my boyfriend are planning a trip in late March to South Namibia. Our flight would arrive at 1:20pm and I was wondering if we have enough time to pick up the car and drive a couple of hours to get there. Thank you, Laura

Monday 22nd of January 2024

@Jurga, thanks for your feedback! After some evaluation I think we’ll definitely spend the first night close to the airport and begin our road trip the day after. Thanks again! Laura

Tuesday 16th of January 2024

Hi Laura, taking into account that your flight arrives in the afternoon and that the drive to Mariental is over 3 hours, I think I'd stay much closer to the airport on the first night. You have to foresee extra time to get out of the airport (luggage, rental car, etc.), not even to mention possible flight delays. I just checked and see that the sunset time at the end of March is around 7 pm, so ideally, you get wherever you have to be no later than that. While theoretically, it could work, I personally would opt to stay closer and not have to stress about having to drive in the dark. Better start earlier the next morning. Have a great trip and stay safe!

Charles Pringle

Monday 6th of November 2023

Great article, thank you, very useful how old is your youngest and how did her/she enjoy the trip. Our little girl will be nearly 2 and a half - is this too young? My feeling is it is given especially significant amount of driving - thoughts?

Friday 10th of November 2023

Hi Charles, our twins were 3.5 when we made this trip, and the oldest was 5.5. They don't remember much of it anymore, but they sure had fun during the trip. Having a 2-year old will not make things easier for you, definitely on longer rides, but if you know what to expect and prepare for long hours in a car, it might even be easier with a younger kid since they (hopefully) can sleep a bit in between the places/activities. Another issue is that often, you won't be able to do (m)any organized safari rides with a young child (usually at least up to 5-6 years, in some cases even 8). I can't really help you decide whether it's a right trip for your family. We are glad that we did it when we did it, but I'm sure it would be a totally different experience with older kids. Good luck!

Saturday 16th of September 2023

How old were your kids when you visited Twyfelfontain? I'm contacting a few lodges and they said that the walking tour to the paintings are not available for children under 5. Do you have recommendations for a tour guide that can take smaller children? Thanks!

Sunday 17th of September 2023

Hi Kevin, all our kids were under 5 at that time and it wasn't a problem. We didn't book any tours through the lodges, just drove there and asked for a private guided tour and that was it. They had guides available and we could start immediately. I'm not sure if something has changed in the meantime, but I'd just go there and figure it out on the spot.

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They de-nude-ed the landscape.

Another day, another instance of tourists disrespecting a landmark.

This time, foreign sightseers angered Namibian authorities after posing naked atop the legendary Big Daddy Dune in the Namib Desert, as seen in photos circulating on social media .

“It is very sickening and it really [creates] a bad image for Namibia,” Kenneth Nependa, vice-chairperson of the Federation of Namibian Tourism Associations, told the Namibian Sun, the BBC reported.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Namibian (@thenamibian)

He added that these antics risked attracting tourists who think that “anything goes” in the southern African nation.

Accompanying footage and video, snapped by an unknown source, shows the unnamed trio strutting about in their birthday suits atop the over 1,000-foot-tall sand mound, which is reportedly popular with families.

Visitors didn’t appreciate the tourists treating the scenic site like a nude beach and called on tourism officials to take action against the crass culprits.

Authorities haven’t yet publicly identified the sandy stripteasers, who allegedly left Namibia by the time authorities received the reports.

However, the nudists could be banned from entering the country’s parks, according to tourism ministers, who added that the “extremely shocking” act was public indecency and therefore punishable by local law.

In light of the indecent incident, officials are calling on visitors to report violators to authorities so they can deal with them accordingly.

“We appeal to that section of tourists to summon the conscience so that they do the right things,” declared Romeo Muyunda, a spokesperson for the ministry of environment, forestry and tourism.

However, many social media users disagreed that the incident was problematic.

“Why are they in trouble? They bothered no one,” an X user declared, according to the BBC, while another claimed that there is “nothing wrong with sunbathing.”

Big Daddy is one of the three largest dunes in Namibia’s Namib-Naukluft National Park and is a popular destination among sightseers looking to get a picturesque view from its crest.

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Namibia Tours & Holidays

Home to proud tribes steeped in tradition, herds of rare desert-dwelling elephants, wild horses and massive colonies of seals, Namibia showcases the very best of Africa's raw landscapes.

From quaint German-inspired towns to uninhabitable deserts, bushland filled with wildlife and a rocky coastline littered with shipwrecks, Namibia's untamed charm is compelling, captivating and camera-worthy.

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Namibia at a glance

Capital city.

Windhoek (population 477,000)

2.6 million

English, Afrikaans

(GMT+02:00) Windhoek

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about Namibia

Best time to visit namibia.

The best time to visit Namibia depends on what you want to see and do. The dry season (May-September) is considered the best time to explore the Nabim Desert and go on safari as the temperatures are comfortable, vegetation is thin and wildlife congregates around waterholes.

The shoulder months (April and October) may be a better option for a safari without peak season crowds; however, Namibia's national parks and reserves never feel   too   crowded.

While it can be trickier to spot game in the wet season (November-March), you might be lucky to see cute newborns as it coincides with the birthing season .

Learn more about the best time to visit Namibia

Culture and customs

Human settlement in Namibia can be traced back to as early as 15000 BC. In the time since, a diverse mix of people and communities have inhabited Namibia, culminating in a unique cultural heritage made of symbolic beliefs, traits and traditions.

Today, most of the population sits within the larger Aawambo cultural group found mostly in the north of Namibia. Other large cultural groups that make up Namibia are the Nama, Damara, Kavango and Ovaherero people.

Namibia was colonised by Germany from the late 1800s until 1919. Because of this, Europeans now make up 5 per cent of the population. German influences can be seen throughout Namibia by way of cuisine, language, architecture and more. As much as 10 per cent of Namibia’s population is made up of people who have migrated from South Africa.

The national language is English; however, many Namibians also speak multiple Indigenous languages, such as the Aawambo language.

Eating and drinking

Like many countries, the majority of Namibia’s cuisine stems from the traditional cooking techniques and produce found in the area. In more recent times, immigrating cultures, specifically German and English, have added to the culinary scene. With a large variation of meats to cook with, it’s no surprise that many of the popular dishes feature meat in some way, often accompanied by a strong flavour and paired carbohydrate.

There are plenty of options for non-meat eaters, too. Some must-tries include green asparagus, omboga (dried spinach), Namibian olives, owawa mushrooms, geelrys (rice dish), oshigali (puree beans) and more.

Things to try in Namibia

A staple daily dish to many, mieliepap is a porridge-like meal usually made with cornflour and served with a selection of vegetables or even a meat protein like fish or goat.

A dish cooked in a small iron pot, potjiekos is a stew that typically combines game meat with hearty vegetables like cauliflower, pumpkin and cabbage.

This dish is of Dutch and Afrikaans origin and serves as a way to store meat. By using a savoury rub of flavoured spices, salt and vinegar, then left to air dry, biltong is a tasty snack that can last for a long time if cured correctly.

Namibian oysters are known to be meatier and fast-growing than in other areas of the world. They are likely to be prepared differently depending on where you go.

Fat cakes are a very popular snack in Namibia and other parts of the world. Essentially, fat cakes are just deep-fried dough balls that can be made into sweet or savoury dishes. So, it's no wonder they're popular!

Geography and environment

Red desert dunes, rugged bushveld, dense woodlands and plains of gravel make up Namibia's ancient terrain. Home to the monumental Fish River Canyon and sharing the iconic Kalahari Desert with   South Africa   and   Botswana , Namibia has some of the most interesting landscapes in   Africa , if not the world.

With little arable land and a warm climate, Namibia is prone to prolonged periods of drought, making farming difficult. Bordered by Angola, Botswana, South Africa and   Zambia , Namibia also has a stretch of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean where visitors can see where the desert meets the sea.

Top 10 places to visit in Namibia

1. fish river canyon.

There's more to the Fish River Canyon than its sheer size. With remote hiking trails, magnificent view points and raging river torrents during the rainy season, visitors will be breathless at the epic views and sense of isolation when visiting this canyon, believed to have been formed more than 500 million years ago.

A not-to-be-missed stop on our epic 40 day Zanzibar to Cape Town wildlife tour.

2. Damaraland

The timeworn terrain of Damaraland makes for interesting, otherworldly landscapes to travel through. The combination of strange rock formations, parched valleys, ochre boulders and amber sunsets makes for magic memories.

See it for yourself on our 17 day Premium Botswana & Namibia tour .

3. Sossusvlei sands

This huge clay pan wrapped in red sand dunes occupies a large part of southern Namibia. With some of the tallest dunes in the world, Sossusvlei's variety of colour, size and flora make it a glory to behold.

Get a jaw-dropping view of the nearby dune giants from atop Dune 45 or below at the Dead Vlei pan while on our 30 day Southern African Adventure or a 13 day Namibia Discovery tour .

4. Cape Cross

This protected area on the cape of the southern Atlantic is most famous for its resident seal colony, one of the largest in the world.

While in Swakopmund, see enough seals to last you the rest of your life with an excursion to Cape Cross on our 10 day Premium Namibia tour .

5. Ship to shore

Namibia's Skeleton Coast has been called 'The Land God Made in Anger' by the San Bushmen and 'The Gates of Hell' by the Portuguese, and it's not hard to see why. With gale-force winds battering the shore, rolling surf and thick fog, the Skeleton Coast has ruined many a mariner over the years. Evidence of this is scattered along the coastal sands, with a collection of rusting ships resting on the beaches - an eerie yet enthralling sight.

See the Skeleton Coast for yourself on a 17 day Premium Botswana & Namibia adventure.

6. Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park might be one of the best places to see some of Africa’s iconic wildlife. With its artificial watering holes and wide clear spaces, it’s likely you’ll grab some stellar snaps of the hard-to-miss inhabitants, including elephants, zebras and even black rhinos.

Etosha NP is just one of the many unique animal-filled destinations on our incredible 22 day Cape Town to Vic Falls wildlife tour . But if you don’t have that long, it also makes a great last stop on our 10 day Premium Namibia adventure .

7. Zambezi River

The Zambezi River isn’t just the fourth-longest river in Africa; it’s also the hangout spot for some pretty famous animals. Look for hippos, monkeys, elephants, buffalo, birds and more aboard a canoe or cruise.

Sip a drink or two and watch for Africa’s mighty animals from your feature stay on the Zambezi River on our 17 day Premium Botswana & Namibia tour or 7 day Premium Botswana trip .

8. Walvis Bay

Bird lovers should consider a stop at Walvis Bay, which is typically a stop on the way to nearby Swakopmund. Thousands of migratory birds, including the fan-favourite flamingos and portly-pouched pelicans are seen across the lagoons and bird sanctuaries.

Get out your binoculars and get ready to tick off some bird sightings as you visit Walvis Bay on our 10 day Premium Namibia adventure .

9. Swakopmund

If, while in Africa, you have a hankering for German architecture, stop by the spookily named Skeleton Coast for a visit to the town of Swakopmund. Wander through the mix of Namibian and German influences of this seaside stop, enjoying the open-air market and fresh sea breeze. You could also find yourself on a dolphin and seal boating adventure to nearby Cape Cross or out on a local fishing excursion.

Swakopmund is a destination fit for any African itinerary. That’s why you can find it on all our Namibia tours, including our 13 day Namibia Discovery tour , our 22 Amazing Southern Africa adventure , and our 63 day Africa Encompassed Southbound tours .

10. Orange River

Named the Orange River for its unique hue, this waterway has been an important part of Namibian and South African history – namely, the diamond rush in the 1800s. While diamond mining is a continuing business in the region, many people simply come to enjoy paddling the waters.

Enjoy a day on the water at Orange River while on a 13 day Namibia Discovery tour .

What’s travel without a meaningful souvenir or two? When in Namibia, Intrepid encourages travellers to support local makers who put time and effort into handmaking their wares. Culturally significant items are often available for purchase, especially in tourist areas. Speaking to the local sellers can be a great way to learn about their culture and understand the significance of what they are selling.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Namibia

Many of the beautiful textiles sold around Namibia can be used in a multitude of ways, e.g., for clothing, tableware, art and more. Look to buy from traditional artists and makers in craft markets to support local talent and local industries.

Wooden crafts

A hand-carved wooden object is a great memento to take home from Namibia. There’s likely a souvenir for everyone with crockery, bowls, animal figures, dolls, instruments and more. You’ll see traditional African masks for sale, which are often items that have a symbolic meaning to the local people.

Precious gems

As one of the largest producers of diamonds in the world, you’re likely to find a sparkly item or two in Namibia. Be sure to do some research or ask your guide about where to go, as not all shops will have the real deal.

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Has Namibia caught your eye? If it has (and we can see why), take a gander at some of our other Africa safari destinations .

• Botswana tours

South Africa

• South Africa tours
• Zimbabwe tours

Namibia travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Namibia?

If you are from Australia, Canada, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, the United Kingdom or the United States, or other visa-exempt countries, you generally do not need a visa if you are travelling in Namibia for up to 3 months (90 days). If you plan to stay longer or if you are intending to work or volunteer, you may need a visa.

All visitors are required to have a passport valid for at least 6 months after the intended date of entry into Namibia. You will also need blank pages in your passport for the entry and exit stamps, as well as a return ticket.

It is advised that you check your visa and noted entry period are correct before leaving the immigration counter upon arrival. If you plan on purchasing a visa on arrival, ensure that a visa can be issued at your intended entry location.

You may also need to hold a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a destination with active yellow fever.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

Last updated: 05/12/2023

Is tipping customary in Namibia?

While not mandatory, a tip of 10% is considered standard when dining in Namibia. With the typical Namibian earning a modest wage, a small tip to porters, housemaids and other service workers would be appreciated.

What is the internet access like in Namibia?

Travellers will be able to access the internet quite easily in the cyber cafes of Namibia’s large cities, but limited to no access should be expected in regional and rural areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Namibia?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Namibia's large cities and towns, but less so in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your mobile phone.

What are the toilets like in Namibia?

Depending on which areas of Namibia you are travelling in, expect to encounter a combination of squat toilets and flushable toilets. Carry your own supply of soap and toilet paper as these aren't always provided.

What will it cost for a…?

The Namibian dollar (NAD) is the nation currency of Namibia.

Cappuccino 34 NAD

A bottle of local beer = 30 NAD

Meal at an inexpensive restaurant = 150 NAD

Sit-down dinner in a nice restaurant = 750 NAD

Can I drink the water in Namibia?

While tap water is considered safe in Namibia's cities, drinking tap water isn't generally recommended in Namibia. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Namibia?

Credit cards are usually accepted by large hotels and western-style restaurants but not by smaller vendors. Ensure you have adequate cash to cover purchases not able to be made on credit.

What is ATM access like in Namibia?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and urban centres, but are rarer in small towns, rural areas and villages. Be sure to have other payment methods available when venturing out of the big cities, as ATMs aren't always an option.

What public holidays are celebrated in Namibia?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 21 Mar: Independence Day
• 29 Mar: Good Friday
• 1 Apr: Easter Monday
• 1 May: Workers' Day
• 4 May: Cassinga Day
• 9 May: Ascension Day
• 25 May: Africa Day
• 26 Aug: Heroes' Day
• 10 Dec: Human Rights Day / Namibian Women's Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Family Day

Please note: Namibian public holidays may vary.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Destination: Namibia

Namibia tours for seniors.

Odyssey Traveller’s Namibia small group tours discovers the spectacular scenery, culture, and wildlife through safari of the country in Southern Africa . An escorted small group tour to Namibia is for the senior or mature couples or solo traveller seeking to learn about and understand Namibia‘s cultural heritage, history, its people and their way of life, as well as see the wildlife. Highlights of Namibia include its capital Windhoek and the spectacular scenery of towering mountain ranges, vast savanna woodlands, deep canyons, the expansive Namib Desert, and the Etosha National Park – one of the world’s best wildlife and safari destinations.

Namibia Tours

Crafted Tours for Mature World Travellers

Namibia Wildlife and Culture Tour for Seniors

Visiting Namibia

A small group tour for seniors and couples to Southern Africa for couples and solo travellers . Namibia shares borders with Angola and Zambia to the north, Botswana to the east and South Africa to the south and east. Wedged between the Kalahari and the South Atlantic, Namibia is home to the oldest desert of the earth. Despite its parched reputation, Namibia is one of the world’s best wildlife destinations.

From A$11,695 AUD

The small group tour to Namibia begins in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. The charm of Windhoek lies in its harmonious blend of African and European cultures and its people’s friendliness. Ever since the country achieved independence in 1990, it has been characterised by a vitality born of a sense of freedom and pride in self. Windhoek is one of the cleanest capitals in Africa . It offers all modern amenities that conform to some of the world’s highest standards.

Travellers on a Namibia holiday can also experience its spectacular scenery from the mountain ranges of Damaraland rising to the north west of the capital Windhoek filled with prehistoric rock art and engravings, to the vast savanna woodlands extending north and south from southwestern Angola to central Namibia, and the deep canyons that lay in the south of the country. Most notable are the Sesriem Canyon and the Fish River Canyon – the largest canyon in Africa and the second largest worldwide. Wedged between the Kalahari Desert and the South Atlantic, Namibia is also home to the oldest desert on Earth – the coastal Namib Desert – with sand dunes stretching for more than 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) along the Atlantic coasts of Angola, Namibia, and South Africa . Highlights within the desert to be discovered on a Namibia tour include the high sand dunes of the Skeleton Coast, Namibia’s second largest city Walvis Bay, the beach resort city of Swakopmund, and the salt clay plan known as Sossusvlei which is surrounded by high red dunes in the southern part of the desert in the Namib-Naukluft National park

Despite its parched reputation, Namibia is one of the world’s best wildlife destinations. On a trip on a Namibia safari you can observe a number of wild animals including the desert elephant, rhinos, desert lions, brown hyenas, jackals, giraffes, and more. Namibia‘s Etosha national Park is one of the most accessible game reserves in Namibia and Southern Africa home to hundreds of species of mammals, birds and reptiles. A exciting morning safari game drive in the private Etosha Heights Game reserve is a key highlight of Odyssey’s Namibia small group tours.

Articles about Namibia

Touring namibia.

The need to know

Getting around

Odyssey travels by coach and occasionally uses local transport, including trains and ferries. Specifics are always outlined in your tour itinerary. Some coach services operate between major towns and locations in Namibia. Minibuses can also be found in Namibia’s towns, though are often cramped and generally don’t service tourist areas that lie off the beaten track. Train services are fairly limited in Namibia, so might not be the best option for getting around.

Accommodation

In major cities, Odyssey stays in centrally located 3-4 star hotels, with easy access to public transport. In smaller towns or rural areas, we usually stay in family-run hotels or guesthouses. On our longstay tours, during which you spend the length of the tour in a single location, we use serviced apartments.

Tour guides

Odyssey always engages local guides with regional knowledge to ensure an authentic experience during which you can learn as much as possible about the history and culture of places you visit.

Geography, Environment, & Weather

Namibia covers a total area of 824,292 square kilometres. There are five geographical areas in Namibia: the Central Plateau, the Namib Desert, the Great Escarpment, the Bushveld and the Kalahari Desert. The flat Central Plateau occupies the middle of the country, with the Namib Desert to the south west, the Kalahari Desert to the east, and the Bushveld to the northeast. As for the rugged Great Escarpment, it runs north to south through the southern half of the country. Despite being a desert, the Kalahari region is home to over 5,000 species of plants, nearly half of them endemic to Namibia.

Namibia has a dry and arid climate, with more than 300 days of sunshine per year. Namibia experiences dry and mild winters, and hot summers, with most of the country’s rainfall occurring in the summer. Depending on when you intend to travel, check the weather reports and dress accordingly.

World heritage sites

There are 2 properties in Namibia listed on the World Heritage List, with a further 8 sites listed on the Tentative List. You can view the listed properties here: (https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/na). Namibia’ listed properties include:

Twyfelfontein, which contains one of the largest concentrations of rock engravings in Africa

Namib Sand Sea, which covers an area of over three million hectares and uniquely features dune fields influenced by fog.

Festivals & Events

Numerous festivals and events dot the calendar in Namibia. The country’s former struggles for independence are commemorated in events such as Heroes’ Day (held in honour of Namibian independence fighters) and Independence Day, which celebrates Namibia’s official emergence as an independent nation in the late 20th century. Germany’s former presence in Namibia is still marked however by cultural events such as Oktoberfest, the famous beer festival of German origin. As the nation’s capital and largest city, Winhoek is host to many of the country’s biggest events, including the Bank Windhoek Arts Festival, a festival dedicated to the arts, and Windhoek Karneval, a colourful and festive event marked with exuberant musical performances and parades.

Reading list

Understanding Namibia: The Trials of Independence, by Henning Melber A History of Namibia: From the Beginning to 1990, by Marion Wallace The Black Rhinos of Namibia: Searching for Survivors in the African Desert, by Rick Bass Epic Land: Namibia Exposed, by Amy Schoeman

Eating & Drinking

Namibian food features a blend of cooking techniques of indigenous groups (such as the Herero and San people) and the culinary influences of Germans and Afrikaners. Game meat is a common feature in Namibian food, with kudu, springbok, oryx, eland, ostrich, zebra, and even crocodile meat found on the menu in Namibia. German and Afrikaner culinary influences shine through in dishes such as potjiekos, a meat and vegetable stew dish slow cooked in an iron pot. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, mopane worms are a local delicacy in northern Namibia, though more familiar fare can be found in the form of Namibia’s fine seafood, including Namibian oysters and kabeljou (silver cob fish).

A legacy of Germany’s former occupation is beer brewing, with German-style beers popular throughout the country. Other notable beverages in Namibia include oshikundu (an alcoholic drink made from fermented millet) and herbal rooibos (redbush) tea.

Health & Safety

Generally speaking, Namibia is safe to travel in, though always exercise common sense while travelling.

Electrical Supply

Whenever you travel overseas, it’s always wise to take an appropriate travel adaptor. The electricity supply in Namibia runs at 220V and 50Hz. Namibia uses the Type D and Type M electric plug types, so make sure you have the right travel adaptor with you.

The best of Namibia

Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park, the largest wildlife sanctuary in Namibia and home to many remarkable plant and animal species.

Kolmanskop ghost town

Kolmanskop ghost town, the eerie abandoned settlement in southern Namibia .

Spitzkoppe rock formations

Spitzkoppe, the eye-catching rock formations in the Namib desert.

Tour Reviews

THE TRIP WAS FANTASTIC.

BARRIE ASHTON

Southern Africa Tour | Fully Escorted Africa Tour for Seniors

This tour was excellent, encompassing not only historical Egypt but also introducing us to modern Egypt. The varied travel by bus, small cruise ship and air, contributed to our interest and enjoyment. The extremely high quality of our tour leader, the Egyptologist and the local guide enhanced our knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of this tour.

Participant 2018

Egypt tour: escorted small group history & cultural tour of Egypt

The Victoria Falls were an outstanding treat.

Participant -16

A tour beyond expectation. Egypt has so much to offer from the past and Odyssey did a fantastic job.

Our Egyptologist, Mohammed, was excellent. Not only was he a very experienced tour guide and very knowledgeable, he was very organised and friendly and we always felt secure with him. He contributed greatly to our enjoyment of the trip.

This was a fascinating program and the support was outstanding

Mal was a wonderful Program leader. She would be the best tour leader we have ever experienced. Her obvious experience and her calm demeanor contributed greatly to the cohesiveness of our group which, in turn, contributed to our enjoyment.

Both cruise ships exceeded our expectations for cleanliness and quality of service.

What is the time zone?

Namibia has a single time zone, Central Africa Time (UTC+2). Daylight savings in Namibia commence on the first Sunday of September and conclude on the first Monday of the follwing April.

Is tipping customary in Namibia?

If you’re on an Odyssey tour, we take care of tipping so you don’t need to give it a second thought. However, in your free time, or if travelling independently, it’s essential that you tip an appropriate amount for services. Tipping is not compulsory in Namibia, though it is appreciated. Drivers and tour guides may expect a tip, as might hotel porters.

What is the internet access like in Namibia?

Wifi should be freely accessible in most hotels, cafes and restaurants within urban areas, though internet acces may be more sporadic in rural areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Namibia?

Check with your cell phone provider to see whether you’re able to make calls and use data while in Namibia. Many providers will allow you to pay a daily fee that allows you to make calls and check the internet while only being charged your regular rates. However, be certain to inform your provider that you’re heading overseas, because just like a bank they can turn off your service as a result of unusual activity.

Responsible travel tips for Namibia

• Learn at least the local greetings to break the ice. Although some locals speak English, the more you know of the native language, the greater your experience of the country will be.
• Carry a business card in your wallet or purse from your local hotel, to assist you with the return journey if you do become lost.
• Always ensure that you are covered by travel insurance. If you need advice on this feel free to contact Odyssey and we’ll be able to help.
• Before departing, make sure you have a number of either Namibian dollars or South African rand in a range of denominations. You don’t want to be carrying around enormous amounts of cash, but take enough to make it easy to pay in locations that might not accept credit card. It will also help you avoid card transaction fees, and it makes tipping a breeze.
• When travelling independently, make sure you check the opening hours of shops and museums so that you don’t miss out! Also be certain to check whether your trip coincides with any public holidays, so you can plan accordingly.
• Before departing on your trip, contact your bank to inform them that you may be making purchases overseas. Otherwise, they may flag any activity on your account as suspicious. Also, check which ATMs and banks are compatible with your cards, to ensure you can withdraw cash with minimal fees.

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Namibia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Namibia.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Namibia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Namibia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Namibia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Namibia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Namibia. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Namibia, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Namibia. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid animals

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Namibia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Namibia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Namibia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Namibia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Namibia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Namibia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Namibia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Namibia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Namibia.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Namibia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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