Southern Namibia Self-Drive Tour – 14 Days
Embark on a 14-day self-drive safari through southern Namibia, starting with your arrival in Windhoek. Collect your vehicle and spend a night at a local B&B before heading to the Kalahari Desert. Here, enjoy thrilling 4×4 drives, bird watching, and scenic hikes.
Continue your adventure to the Fish River Canyon, exploring its dramatic landscapes. From there, drive to Aus, where you can see the unique desert horses. Next, head to Lüderitz, a coastal town with charming sights and nearby desert excursions.
From Lüderitz, journey to the Tiras Mountains, then to Sossusvlei to marvel at the iconic red dunes. Finally, travel to Swakopmund for adrenaline activities and coastal relaxation.
Activities offered
Accommodation
- Bed & Breakfast
- Campsite
- Lodge
Day Summary
- DAY 1 - Arrival in Windhoek
- DAY 2 - Kalahari
- DAY 3 - Kalahari
- DAY 4 - Fish River Canyon
- DAY 5 - Fish River Canyon
- DAY 6 - Aus
- DAY 7 - Lüderitz
- DAY 8 - Lüderitz
- DAY 9 - Tiras Mountains
- DAY 10 - Sossusvlei
- DAY 11 - Sossusvlei
- DAY 12 - Swakopmund
- DAY 13 - Swakopmund
- DAY 14 - Return to Windhoek
Included
- 4×4 Air-Conditioned Vehicle Rental & GPS
- Bed & Breakfast
- Accommodation & Campsites
- Airport Transfers
Excluded
- Personal Visa Fees
- International Airline Fees
- Non-included Activities
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Items of personal nature
- Gratuities & Tips
Day by day
Departure/Return Location:
Hosea Kutako International Airport
- DAY 1 - Arrival in WindhoekWelcome to Namibia! Upon your arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, a shuttle driver from your car hire company will transfer you to town for the vehicle handover. Once you've stocked up on fuel and supplies, head to your cozy B&B for the night. Take some time to unwind and acclimate before your adventure begins tomorrow!
- DAY 2 - KalahariYour adventure begins as you depart Windhoek and head towards the stunning Kalahari. As you drive through the changing landscapes, you'll be mesmerized by the red dunes, vast open spaces, and unique flora and fauna. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Kalahari, where you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including oryx, springbok, and possibly even the elusive cheetah. Enjoy a sundowner on the dunes and experience the breathtaking sunset, a perfect start to your self-drive safari in Namibia.
- DAY 3 - KalahariDuring your stay in the Namibian Kalahari, you can indulge in a variety of activities that showcase the region's unique beauty and wildlife. Embark on guided nature walks where knowledgeable guides will introduce you to the fascinating flora and fauna, including the resilient desert plants and elusive animals. Experience the thrill of a game drive, where you might spot majestic oryx, springbok, and meerkats, among others.
For a truly unforgettable experience, join a sunset drive to witness the stunning colors of the Kalahari dunes as the sun dips below the horizon. Learn about the traditional ways of the indigenous San people on a cultural tour, offering insights into their history and survival techniques. Finally, enjoy stargazing under the vast, unpolluted skies of the Kalahari, where the Milky Way presents a dazzling display. - DAY 4 - Fish River CanyonNext on your self-drive safari, you'll journey from the serene Kalahari to the awe-inspiring Fish River Canyon. As you leave the red dunes behind, the landscape transforms into rugged terrain and vast open spaces. This scenic drive offers plenty of opportunities to marvel at Namibia's diverse landscapes, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
Upon reaching Fish River Canyon, you'll be greeted by one of the largest canyons in the world, stretching over 160 kilometers in length and plunging up to 550 meters deep. Here, you can embark on hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the canyon’s sheer cliffs and winding river below. For a more leisurely experience, enjoy a sunset viewpoint where the changing light paints the canyon in hues of red and gold. - DAY 5 - Fish River CanyonOn day two of your stay at Fish River Canyon, you have plenty of activities to choose from to immerse yourself in this natural wonder.
Start with a sunrise hike along well-marked trails like the Rim Trail for stunning morning views. Visit the Fish River Canyon Viewpoints for panoramic vistas accessible by car. In the afternoon, drive to Ai-Ais Hot Springs Resort to relax in the thermal waters and enjoy spa treatments. Take a scenic drive to spot wildlife like kudu and oryx or go birdwatching to see various native species.
End your day with a sunset hike or relax at a viewpoint to watch the canyon’s colors change as the sun sets. Day two at Fish River Canyon offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. - DAY 6 - AusThe next leg of your journey takes you from Fish River Canyon to Aus. This scenic drive offers stunning views as you transition from the rugged canyon to the mesmerizing Namib Desert.
In Aus, you can explore the area's historical sites and witness the famous desert horses of Namibia at the Garub waterhole. These resilient horses have adapted to the harsh desert environment and roam freely.
Aus offers cozy accommodations, hiking trails with panoramic desert views, and remnants of World War I history. This part of your trip blends natural wonders with historical insights, making your Namibian adventure even more memorable. - DAY 7 - LüderitzYour next drive takes you from Aus to Lüderitz, a coastal town known for its charming German colonial architecture and picturesque harbor.
On the way, you can stop at Kolmanskop, an abandoned diamond mining town now partially reclaimed by the desert. Once in Lüderitz, explore the quaint streets, visit the historic Felsenkirche, and enjoy fresh seafood. The nearby Diaz Point offers dramatic ocean views and a glimpse into the region's maritime history.
This leg of your journey combines desert landscapes with coastal beauty and historical intrigue. - DAY 8 - LüderitzOn your second day in Lüderitz, consider a boat trip to see Cape fur seals and, during the right season, the majestic southern right whales. Explore the charming town further, visit the Lüderitz Museum to learn about the area's history, or take a scenic drive to the rugged coastline. For a unique experience, venture out to the nearby ghost town of Kolmanskop to discover its eerie beauty. Enjoy the blend of coastal charm and historical exploration.
- DAY 9 - Tiras MountainsToday, you'll drive from Lüderitz to the Tiras Mountains, a journey showcasing Namibia's stunning desert landscapes. As you approach the Tiras Mountains, you'll encounter a dramatic shift in scenery from coastal dunes to rugged mountain terrain. The mountains, known for their striking rock formations and varied hues, offer a serene and remote escape. Enjoy the drive through this picturesque region and take in the unique beauty of the Tiras Mountains, an ideal spot for photography and appreciating Namibia's natural splendor.
- DAY 10 - SossusvleiThe road takes you from from the Tiras Mountains to Sossusvlei today. This will be a highlight of your Namibian adventure. The drive takes you through the heart of the Namib Desert, where the landscape transitions from rugged mountains to expansive sand dunes. As you approach Sossusvlei, you'll be greeted by some of the world's tallest sand dunes, their striking red-orange hues contrasting beautifully with the blue sky.
Once you arrive, immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of this desert landscape. Explore iconic landmarks like Dune 45, climb the high dunes for breathtaking views, and visit Deadvlei, a salt and clay pan surrounded by ancient, desiccated trees. Sossusvlei offers unparalleled opportunities for photography, stargazing, and experiencing the tranquil solitude of the Namib Desert. - DAY 11 - SossusvleiAfter a hearty breakfast, set off on your self-drive safari adventure to Sossusvlei! As you journey through Namibia's ever-changing landscapes, be ready to be captivated by the stunning scenery. Watch for wildlife such as graceful oryx and playful meerkats that inhabit this desert terrain. Take time to stop and photograph the rugged mountains, vast plains, and towering sand dunes that define the Namibian landscape. Enjoy the serene beauty of the desert as you head towards Sossusvlei, where the iconic red dunes await your exploration.
- DAY 12 - SwakopmundAs you head towards Swakopmund, make sure to stop at Solitaire, a key pit stop on your journey. Nestled between the dunes of Sossusvlei and the coastal charm of Walvis Bay, Solitaire offers essential amenities such as fuel, a post office, a bakery, and a general store. Don’t miss the chance to savor the famous Apfel Strudel from the local bakery—a must-try treat that captures the essence of Solitaire. Refuel and refresh here before continuing your exploration of Namibia’s stunning landscapes.
- DAY 13 - SwakopmundIn Swakopmund, excitement awaits around every corner! Thrill-seekers can dive into exhilarating desert adventures like sand-boarding down towering dunes or speeding across vast landscapes on quad bikes. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade, lined with cozy cafes and unique shops. Don’t miss a boat tour to spot playful seals and dolphins in the Atlantic or explore the haunting shipwrecks along the Skeleton Coast. With a variety of activities to choose from, Swakopmund guarantees an unforgettable adventure for every traveler.
- DAY 14 - Return to WindhoekToday marks the conclusion of your 14-day southern Namibia self-drive safari. Drive back to Windhoek, and please return your vehicle by 16:00 to allow time for check-in and transfer to the airport. We will arrange your transfer 2 hours before your departure flight to ensure a smooth journey home after your incredible Namibian adventure.
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