Highlights of Namibia

The morning demands an early start. Entering the Namib Naukluft National Park with sunrise, the first rays of sunlight paint the mountains of sand into a variety of apricot, red and orange, contrasted against a crisp blue skyline, enrapturing our senses, and providing an opportunity to capture this awesome landscape on film. You will be captivated by the surreal Deadvlei surrounded by some of the highest dunes on earth and Sossusvlei, where the dry Tsauchab River ends abruptly amongst dunes. Take the opportunity to walk up one of these majestic dunes to admire the desert landscape beneath. Thereafter we visit the Sesriem Canyon, a life sustaining natural phenomenon in the heart of the Namib Desert.

Indulge in a delightful breakfast as we prepare to embark on a captivating journey through the Gaub and Kuiseb canyons. While the rivers we encounter may typically run dry, we might be fortunate enough to witness their rejuvenation after recent inland rains. As we navigate through the winding canyons, an enchanting sight awaits on the horizon—the vast Atlantic Ocean. Along our route, we will pause at the Walvis Bay lagoon for an up-close encounter with graceful flamingos. Continuing onwards, our path leads us to Swakopmund, nestled between the ocean and the desert. Swakopmund, our final destination for the day, offers an array of possibilities to spend your afternoon. Feel free to consult your guide, as there are numerous attractions and activities to explore. Moreover, the town boasts a selection of excellent restaurants, ensuring that the invigorating ocean breeze will leave you with a healthy appetite.

Take full advantage of your day at leisure in Swakopmund, often hailed as the “playground of Namibia,” where a plethora of activities awaits. From thrilling adventures to discovering the captivating wonders of the Namib Desert and its remarkable flora and fauna, the options are endless. Immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of this charming coastal town while relishing a cup of coffee and freshly baked pastries at one of the many delightful cafes. Alternatively, set out on a day tour to explore the rugged and scorching desert or take in the breath-taking views from above during a scenic flight. Unleash your inner child and experience an adrenaline rush with daring escapades like skydiving over the desert or engaging in quad biking and sandboarding on the majestic dunes. Take your time to absorb the essence of this quaint town, with its historic buildings, museums, shopping arcades, and a beach bar that exudes its unique personality through vibrant colours and a bohemian lifestyle.

Today we embark on a long drive from Swakopmund to Etosha National Park. Our drive is via a small town of Omaruru which is known for its excellent wines. We will stop over for wine tasting (optional) before proceeding to Etosha. Upon reaching Etosha, we will enjoy an afternoon game drive in a closed tour vehicle. Before entering the park, we’ll make a short detour to visit the Traditional Himba Village of Omapaha (additional cost may apply).

You can look forward to an exciting day, so you will want to get up early to begin your safari in the Etosha National Park. The Etosha is huge and you will have to whole day to get to know it and its many inhabitants. Elephants, lions, wildebeest, giraffe, hyena, many different antelope are just some of the animals you may encounter. If you are lucky, you may even see a cheetah or a leopard. They can be difficult to find, but your guide has well trained eyes and will help you spot animals you did not even know were there. You might also want to make a stop at the Etosha Pan, meaning ‘Great White Place’ in Oshiwambo. One can easily see why, as the pan stretches out into the horizon. The silence is deafening. After plenty of game viewing and many new impressions, you return to the Etosha Safari Camp for another delicious dinner and a good night’s rest.

Today we depart very early from Etosha and head back to Windhoek. Before leaving the environments of Etosha we will make a detour and visit a Traditional Himba Village. Also on our way we will stop over at Okahandja Wood Carver’s market.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.