WINDHOEK
Arriving in Windhoek
After landing at Hosea Kutako International Airport, pick up your rental car and drive to your accommodation in or near Windhoek. The city is nestled between the Eros Mountains in the east and the Khomas Highlands in the west and immediately gives a feeling of African vastness. After check-in, there is time to recover from arrival.
If you feel like exploring for the first time, you can take a stroll through the city center in the afternoon. The Christ Church, the Ink Palace or the Independence Memorial Museum are worthwhile destinations and show the connection between colonial history and modern development. A visit to the Namibia Craft Centre is also recommended to get to know artistic souvenirs and local crafts. Numerous restaurants invite you to dine — from fine international cuisine to regional specialities such as game dishes or freshly caught fish. Windhoek is a gentle introduction to Namibia's diversity.
WINDHOEK — NAUKLUFT MOUNTAINS
(approx. 280 km/approx. 4:30 hours pure driving time)
Your self-drive round trip starts today. The trip first takes you through the Khomas Highlands, where rolling hills and farmland alternate with picturesque mountain ranges. Further south, you pass the spectacular Spreetshoogte Pass, whose vantage point offers a magnificent view of the vast expanses of the Namib — a perfect stop for a first panoramic photo.
In the afternoon, you'll reach the Naukluft Mountains. Your lodge is idyllically nestled amidst rugged rocks that are part of the Namib-Naukluft Park. Rugged gorges, deep canyons and fascinating vegetation that has adapted to extreme conditions dominate here. In the evening, enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and end the day with a sundowner in an impressive landscape.
NAUKLUFT MOUNTAINS
Day of stay
Today is dedicated to exploring the Naukluft Mountains. The area is known for its spectacular hiking trails, which lead through narrow gorges, along clear watercourses and to natural pools. If you are actively out and about, choose an extended hike such as the “Olive Trail” or “Waterkloof Trail”, which offer breathtaking views and unforgettable moments of nature.
But even those who want to take things easy will get their money's worth: short walks reveal impressive rock formations, rare plants such as aloe or quiver trees and, with a bit of luck, encounters with cliff jumpers or baboons. Birdwatchers enjoy a diverse range of avifauna — including the colorful bee-eater or the proud black eagle.
The lodge itself is a place of relaxation, ideal for spending the afternoon by the pool or on the terrace while the sky above you glows in deep blue.
NAUKLUFT MOUNTAINS
Day of stay
A second day in the Naukluft Mountains gives you the opportunity to experience the region even more intensively. A trip to the Sesriem Canyon, which the Tsauchab River has dug into the rock over thousands of years, is recommended. In the cool gorge, you can take a short hike, which impressively shows the geological features.
If you prefer to stay at the lodge, you can book a guided nature trip or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding area. The charm of Naukluft lies not only in the spectacular landscapes, but also in the silence, which is only broken by the wind and the sound of birds. In the evening, enjoy an atmospheric open-air dinner as the sun sets behind the mountains.
NAUKLUFT MOUNTAINS — SWAKOPMUND
(approx. 370 km/approx. 6:00 hours pure travel time)
Today, you'll continue your journey heading west until you reach the Atlantic coast. Along the way, you'll cross endless plains and the rugged Gaub and Kuiseb valleys. A stop in Solitaire is definitely worthwhile — the small settlement is known for its legendary apple pie and the quirky collection of old vehicles.
Shortly before Walvis Bay, the landscape changes again: Here you can stop at the lagoon, where flamingos, pelicans and numerous other waterbirds live. Finally, you'll reach Swakopmund, the charming coastal town with colonial flair.
Your accommodation is close to the beach, and you can stroll along the promenade, browse boutiques or stop off at one of the cozy cafés. In the evening, excellent restaurants invite you to try fresh fish or Namibian oysters — accompanied by a glass of South African wine. Swakopmund combines adventure, culture and pleasure in a unique way.
SWAKOPMUND
Day of stay
Swakopmund is not only a charming coastal town, but also Namibia's adventure center. Today is all about your personal preferences. If you love the sea, take a boat trip or kayak trip in Walvis Bay, where dolphins, seals and pelicans are part of everyday life.
There are numerous options for active people: quad bike tours, fat bike trips into the dunes or sandboarding offer exciting prospects. If you want to take it easy, you can visit the lunar landscape and the rare Welwitschia plants in the hinterland. Culturally interested travelers visit the Swakopmund Museum, galleries or enjoy a stroll through the colonial architecture in the center.
In the evening, the pier is the perfect spot for a sundowner with views of the Atlantic. The combination of ocean sounds, colonial flair and a relaxed atmosphere makes Swakopmund one of Namibia's most popular travel destinations.
SWAKOPMUND
Day of stay
Another day in Swakopmund allows you to take advantage of the wide range of offers even more intensively. A Living Desert Tour is recommended: Experienced guides will show you the fascinating world of the “Little Five” — geckos, chameleons, beetles and other small inhabitants of the dunes, who have adapted perfectly to life in the sand.
If you want to dive deeper into the culture, you can take part in a township tour and gain insights into the everyday life of the local population. Swakopmund also has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine: In addition to the fish restaurants, you will find German-style cafés, rustic beer gardens or modern bistros.
This extra day provides a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure and culture before you travel further inland the next morning.
SWAKOPMUND — SPITZKOPPE
(approx. 160 km/approx. 3:00 hours pure driving time)
After exciting days on the Atlantic coast, you'll leave Swakopmund and head inland. The road first leads through extensive plains, where the landscape gradually becomes drier and rocky. Even from afar, you can see the impressive Spitzkoppe massif, which, with its up to 1,728 meters high granite domes, stands out of the plain and is not called the “Matterhorn of Namibia” for nothing.
In the early afternoon, you will reach Spitzkoppe Mountain Tented Camp, which is idyllically situated at the foot of the rock formation. Here you have the opportunity to explore the area on a walk: Numerous San rock carvings testify to ancient settlement. A short hike to natural rock arches and viewpoints, from which you can overlook the vastness of the landscape, is particularly worthwhile.
When the sun sets, Spitzkoppe is transformed into a spectacle of colors — the granite domes glow in intense shades of orange and red. You will then enjoy the special atmosphere of the camp while a clear starry sky shines above you, which can only be experienced in a few places in the world.
SPITZKOPPE
Day of stay
Today is all about nature, peace and discovery around Spitzkoppe. After a leisurely breakfast, you can set off on a guided hike. Experienced guides will take you through bizarre rock formations, narrow gorges and thousands of years old rock paintings. The “Rock Arch”, a natural rock arch that is particularly popular with photographers, is particularly impressive.
If you like to be more active, you can take a more challenging hike up to higher elevations of the Granitkuppen. From there, there is a magnificent view of the endless savanna that reaches to the horizon. Along the way, you'll learn more about the geological features and the amazing adaptation of plants and animals in this barren environment.
The afternoon is the perfect time to simply enjoy the peace and space. Maybe watch the colorful rock hylashes frolic between the rocks, or relax at camp with a good book. In the evening, the setting sun once again bathes the landscape in magical light — an experience that makes your stay unforgettable.
SPITZKOPPE — TWYFELFONTEIN
(approx. 280 km/approx. 5:30 hours pure driving time)
Your journey continues today to Damaraland. After breakfast, you'll leave Spitzkoppe and drive through secluded landscapes with bizarre rock formations, vast dry rivers and small settlements. On the way, a trip to Uis, a former mining town, is worthwhile, where you can get a feel for rural Namibia.
With a bit of luck, you'll see the famous desert elephants searching for food in the dried-out rivers. In the early afternoon, you'll reach Twyfelfontein, a region of worldwide importance that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the afternoon, you can visit the famous rock engravings. Thousands of years ago, the San carved over 2,500 images of animals, hunting scenes and spiritual symbols into the red sandstone. Another natural wonder in the area is the organ pipes, column-like basalt formations, and the nearby Burnt Mountain, whose dark surface is reminiscent of volcanic activity. The evening then belongs to the lodge, where you can end the day with a sundowner.
TWYFELFONTEIN — ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK (SOUTH)
(approx. 330 km/approx. 5:30 hours pure driving time)
In the morning, continue your journey north. The route leads through the varied Damaraland with wide plains, rugged mountains and small villages of Damara and Herero. Along the way, it's worth stopping at distinctive viewpoints and enjoying the contrasting landscape.
In the afternoon, you will reach the southern entrance of Etosha National Park. On the way to your accommodation, you will experience the first wildlife sightings: herds of antelopes roam the savanna, giraffes graze on the trees, and with a bit of luck, elephants or even lions can be seen.
Your lodge is not far from the park entrance and offers ideal opportunities to dedicate the next few days entirely to safaris. In the evening, you can relax at a waterhole and watch the wildlife — an impressive spectacle that will get you in the mood for upcoming safari experiences.
ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK (SOUTH)
Day of stay
Today, you will dedicate yourself entirely to wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park, one of Africa's most important game reserves. Early in the morning, when the temperatures are still pleasant and many animals are active, start your first game drive. The endless expanse of the park is repeatedly interrupted by water holes where a wide variety of animals congregate. With a bit of luck, you'll see elephants cooling off in water, zebras moving across the savanna in large herds, and antelope species such as oryx, springbok or kudu.
The predators are a special experience: lions resting in the shade, hyenas that roam curiously through the grass, and maybe even a leopard hiding in the thick bush. The park is home to over 100 mammal species, plus countless bird species — including eagles, vultures and colorful bustards.
Return to the lodge at noon and enjoy a break before heading back to the park in the afternoon. In the warm light of the sinking sun, atmospheric photos are taken when giraffes make elegant movements towards the watering hole or a herd of elephants majestically crosses the road. In the evening, the day ends with a sundowner while the African starry sky shines above you.
ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK (SOUTH — EAST)
Game drive & drive through the park (approx. 150 km/full day)
Today, you'll cross Etosha National Park from south to east. The entire day is dedicated to safari experiences, as you will get to know numerous waterholes and various forms of landscape along the way. The Etosha pan — a huge, sparkling salt pan that is visible from space — forms the center of the park. During the dry season, it looks like a surreal, endless area in which heat shimmers; after rain, it transforms into a place where countless flamingos gather.
Along the way, you'll always have the opportunity to spot the park's “Big Four” — elephant, rhino, lion and leopard. But smaller animals are also fascinating: jackals, mongooses, warthogs or colorful birds such as the fork horse. Your route takes you through open savannas, dense Mopane forests and barren plains — a constant change of scenery.
In the afternoon, you'll reach the eastern part of the park and finally your lodge, which is ideally located to spend the next day relaxing in nature. The impressions of this intensive safari day will accompany you over dinner in an authentic atmosphere.
ETOSHA EAST — WATERBERG REGION
(approx. 330 km/approx. 5:30 hours pure driving time)
After exciting safari days, you will leave the Etosha National Park and head south to the Waterberg region. The trip takes you through extensive farming areas and villages, which give an impression of rural life in Namibia. Termite mounds line the road again and again, and ostriches and antelopes are frequently seen.
In the early afternoon, you will arrive at Kambaku Safari Lodge, which is surrounded by a private game reserve. As soon as you arrive, it becomes clear that the focus here is on the “pure nature” experience. In the late afternoon, take your first game drive in an open off-road vehicle. In addition to classic wild animals such as zebras, giraffes and antelopes, activities such as horse-riding safaris or guided nature walks are also available here.
During dinner on the lodge terrace, you will not only enjoy excellent cuisine, but also views of the vast African countryside. The atmosphere is familiar and close to nature — a nice contrast to the large national parks.
WATERBERG REGION
Day of stay
Today is dedicated to discovering and enjoying the Waterberg region. After a relaxing breakfast, you can go on a horseback riding safari — the lodge is known for its excellent horseback riding offer. From horseback, you can experience zebras, kudus and impalas up close in their natural environment — an intense yet quiet natural experience.
Alternatively, a guided hike in the reserve is an option. Experienced guides explain the flora and fauna, show traces in the sand and report exciting things about the ecosystem. The area is a paradise for bird lovers: From small weaver birds to majestic eagles, numerous species can be observed.
The afternoon is free for you. Whether at the pool with a view over the savanna, on another safari or simply in peace with a glass of wine in hand — this is the perfect balance of activity and relaxation. In the evening, enjoy a multi-course dinner in a stylish atmosphere while the crickets are chirping outside.
WATERBERG — OKONJIMA
(approx. 180 km/approx. 3:00 hours pure driving time)
Your journey continues to Okonjima Nature Reserve, home of the renowned AfriCat Foundation, which is dedicated to protecting leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. As soon as you drive to the reserve, you will experience the varied landscape: farmland, scrubland and wooded hills alternate.
In the afternoon, go on a guided safari in the reserve. The main focus here is on protecting endangered big cats, so you have excellent chances of seeing leopards in the wild. Cheetahs, which are released into the wild in spacious areas, can also often be spotted. In addition to big cats, the reserve is home to numerous antelope species, warthogs and diverse bird life.
After an exciting day, round off the evening at the lodge. With its stylish ambiance and impressive location in the reserve, it is a highlight of the trip.
OKONJIMA — NA'ANKUSE
(approx. 220 km/approx. 3:30 hours pure driving time)
After breakfast, drive on to the Greater Windhoek Area and reach Na'ankuse Lodge, which is fully committed to nature conservation. The private reserve is known for its projects to rehabilitate injured or orphaned wild animals.
In the afternoon, you have the opportunity to take part in one of the activities on offer: A guided safari in an open off-road vehicle, during which you can see giraffes, antelopes, jackals and, with a bit of luck, big cats. Alternatively, you can book a “Carnivore Feeding Tour” where you can experience cheetahs, leopards or wild dogs up close and learn more about the work of the foundation.
In the evening, relax in the lodge and enjoy the special atmosphere — a successful mix of safari adventure, luxury and nature conservation.
NA'ANKUSE
Day of stay
At the end of your trip, spend another day in Na'ankuse. The focus here is on sustainable tourism and you will learn a lot about protecting Namibian wildlife. Take part in a hike with a San guide who will impressively show you how his ancestors lived in harmony with nature. You will learn about traditional medicinal plants, see traces in the sand and experience a completely different view of the landscape.
Optionally, you can opt for another safari or enjoy your time in the lodge — whether by the pool, with a massage, or simply with a view of the vast expanse of the reserve. This last day offers the opportunity to review the many impressions of the previous trip and enjoy them in peace and quiet.
In the evening, the trip comes to an atmospheric end — with a last sundowner in the midst of Namibian nature, before heading back to Windhoek and from there back home.
CENTRAL NAMIBIA - AIRPORT
(approx. 30 km/0:30 h)
Today is your last day in Africa. If your departure is only in the evening, you can go back to Windhoek and its sights. Or are you strolling through the shops looking for a souvenir? Just in time before departure, drive back to the rental station, where you drop off your car.
