Namibia Self Drive Abundant Wildlife Tour – 17 Days

Welcome to Namibia! You've arrived in a land of stunning contrasts, stretching over 824,269 km². From the ancient sands of the world's oldest desert to rugged mountains, dense woodlands, and lily-carpeted waterways, Namibia promises an unforgettable adventure. Upon landing at Hosea Kutako International Airport, you'll be greeted by a friendly car hire shuttle service, ready to whisk you away to begin your journey.

Embark on a fascinating two-and-a-half-hour drive where you'll encounter some of Namibia's most iconic carnivores. Visit baboons, caracals, lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and leopards, and watch as the experienced lodge guides feed them, sharing stories about how these incredible animals came to live on the reserve. Enjoy a scenic drive with excellent chances to spot other wildlife, offering not just an educational insight into their behaviors but also fantastic up-close photo opportunities.

After breakfast, your self-drive safari takes you to Sossusvlei, a stunning salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red dunes in the southern Namib Desert. Located within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is a must-see destination. The name "Sossusvlei" often refers to the entire surrounding area, including neighboring vleis like Deadvlei and other magnificent high dunes.

Rise early to watch the sunrise over the Namib Desert. Make your way to Sossusvlei, a breathtaking salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red dunes in the southern Namib Desert, within the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

Your adventure continues, taking you to the charming coastal town of Swakopmund, a gem on Namibia's Atlantic coast. Named after the Swakop River, Swakopmund (German for “Mouth of the Swakop”) is a delightful blend of German colonial architecture, seaside charm, and desert landscapes.

On your way to Swakopmund, stop over at Solitaire, a quaint settlement in the Khomas Region near the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Despite its small size, Solitaire is a vital pit stop with the only gasoline station, post office, bakery, and general dealer between the dunes of Sossusvlei and the coast at Walvis Bay. Enjoy a freshly baked apple pie from the renowned Desert Bakery and soak in the quirky charm of this desert oasis.
Continue your drive through captivating landscapes, transitioning from arid desert to the refreshing coastal breeze of Swakopmund, where adventure and relaxation await.

On your second day in Swakopmund, dive into a variety of thrilling activities. Start with an invigorating seal kayaking tour, paddling alongside playful seals in the Atlantic. For breathtaking scenery, embark on a Sandwich Harbour 4x4 scenic tour, exploring the dramatic dunes and wetlands. If you crave more excitement, try quad biking and sand-boarding on the towering dunes. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, opt for a scenic flight over the desert or experience the thrill of tandem parachuting. Whether you're seeking adventure or stunning views, Swakopmund offers an unforgettable day of exploration.

Get an early start for your journey to Damaraland. From Swakopmund, head north along the iconic Skeleton Coast. Consider a detour to the Cape Cross seal colony if you haven't yet visited the seals in Swakopmund. Continue your drive to Twyfelfontein, passing by Brandberg Mountain, Namibia’s highest peak. Take a break and hike to the White Lady rock painting, a fascinating detour that takes about two hours. Once in Twyfelfontein, explore the famous rock engravings, a must-see. Nearby attractions include the Petrified Forest, Organ Pipes, and Burnt Mountain, all offering unique sights. For the best experience, aim to view this stunning landscape as the sun sets, casting a magical glow over Damaraland.

Embark on an unforgettable Elephant Tracking adventure in Damaraland. Led by experienced trackers, guests can expect an exciting journey through rugged landscapes in search of desert-adapted elephants. Learn about their unique behaviors and survival strategies in this harsh environment as you get closer to these magnificent creatures. Witnessing the resilience and beauty of Namibia's desert elephants up close offers a rare and awe-inspiring experience.

As you embark on the self-drive journey from Twyfelfontein to Palmwag, prepare to be mesmerized by the captivating landscapes of Damaraland. Along the way, you'll encounter remarkable geological formations, including ancient rock engravings and the majestic Brandberg Mountain. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of desert-adapted elephants, adding an exciting wildlife aspect to your adventure. The route also unveils a diverse array of flora and fauna uniquely adapted to Namibia's arid environment, offering ample opportunities for photography and immersion in the region's natural splendour.

Today you will be be accompanied by the lodges knowledgeable guide, who will enhance your experience by introducing you to the fascinating local flora and the stunning rock formations of the Etendeka Mountains. Keep an eye out for the shy wild animals that have long inhabited this plateau, adding an element of excitement to your exploration. If you opt for an afternoon walk, you can expect to depart around 4:30 PM, after enjoying a refreshing break with coffee and tea, served alongside delicious homemade cakes to boost your energy for the hike ahead.

As you continue your self-drive safari journey from Palmwag to Etosha National Park, get ready for an extraordinary experience immersed in the heart of Namibia's wilderness. Inside the park, you'll be greeted by vast plains stretching as far as the eye can see, punctuated by waterholes teeming with life. Keep your eyes peeled for herds of graceful antelopes, majestic giraffes grazing on acacia trees, and perhaps even a glimpse of a stealthy predator prowling through the bush. As the sun sets, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, you'll settle into your accommodation within the park, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the African night. With each passing moment, you'll discover new wonders and create lasting memories amidst Etosha's untamed beauty.

Embark on an exhilarating full-day game drive adventure within Etosha National Park, immersing yourself in the mesmerizing wildlife spectacle that unfolds before your eyes. Pause at various watering holes, witnessing a diverse array of animals quenching their thirst under the African sun. Keep your camera ready for a chance encounter with the elusive white or black rhinoceros, a sight to behold and capture in a fleeting moment. Marvel at the sight of majestic herds of springbok antelope, graceful zebras, formidable wild dogs, towering giraffes, majestic elephants, and regal lions among countless other species that call this vast wilderness home. Etosha's rich biodiversity extends beyond its iconic residents to encompass a myriad of birds and insects, adding to the enchantment of this natural wonderland. While four of the renowned BIG 5 species roam freely here, the buffalo stands as the only mammal absent from the park's captivating landscape.

As you arrive at Onguma Nature Reserve, nestled on the eastern edge of Etosha Park in Namibia, you'll enter a realm where untamed wilderness meets luxurious comfort. Surrounded by the vast reserve, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the African bush. Experience exhilarating game drives through diverse habitats, spotting iconic wildlife like elephants, giraffes, and big cats. Every moment in Onguma offers a chance to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories in Namibia's wilderness.

Explore the vast expanse of Onguma Game Reserve, spanning over 20,000 hectares of pristine wilderness. Encounter an impressive array of wildlife, with over thirty species calling this nature reserve home. Keep your eyes peeled for predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards as you traverse the rugged terrain. And, in an exciting development, a family of black rhinos has recently joined the diverse ecosystem of Onguma Nature Reserve, adding to its rich biodiversity.

As you continue your self-drive safari adventure from Onguma Nature Reserve to Okonjima Nature Reserve, prepare for an unforgettable experience. Situated midway between Windhoek and Etosha National Park, Okonjima Plains Camp awaits your arrival. This unique lodge is not just a place to stay but a haven for conservation, serving as the home of The AfriCat Foundation. This non-profit organization is dedicated to the preservation of Namibia's majestic carnivores, including cheetahs and leopards.

On day two of your stay at Okonjima Nature Reserve, you have an array of exciting activities to choose from. Explore the reserve on a thrilling game drive, where you can spot Namibia's iconic wildlife, including cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas. For a more immersive experience, embark on a guided bushwalk, led by knowledgeable guides who will share insights into the reserve's flora and fauna. Alternatively, indulge in birdwatching, capturing the diverse bird species that call Okonjima home. For those seeking relaxation, unwind by the poolside and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Whatever activity you choose, be sure to pre-book to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Today, you'll journey back to Windhoek, returning the rental vehicle to the car hire depot approximately three hours before your departure flight. However, if your flight is scheduled for after 18:00, ensure the vehicle is returned no later than 16:00. Before departing, take advantage of the chance to explore the local wood carvers market for unique souvenirs—a not-to-be-missed opportunity!