The Namibia Family Self-drive Safari (Standard)

A relaxing walk with the Bushman (San), sharing with you their ancient survival skills and secrets from their forefathers.

Arriving at the traditional Bushman village, you will meet the family who will present you with how they used to store water in ostrich eggs , plants for medicinal use, setting up traps, the making of ostrich and bead jewellery, etc. This is really an experience, always to remember.

The guide will do the necessary translation in English, as the Bushman will be speaking in their language.

A game drive in the reserve with a variety of game such as giraffe, kudu, zebra, oryx, blue-wildebeest, eland and much more. The reserve has some of the highest dunes in this region, with views over the pans, characteristic to the Kalahari. Between the dunes, which are called streets, are the beautiful acacia trees. The Kalahari has more than 150 species of birds. The well-known suricate (meerkat) is also to be seen, although they are very scarce.

As the day draws to an end, a sundowner on the dune will await you, with refreshments and a Namibian snack, while enjoying a breath taking sunset in the Kalahari.

This activity allows one the opportunity to come up close to the cheetah, great for taking photos. The guides will provide interesting facts about this incredible cat and the history of the cheetahs in their care

In association with CCF(cheetah conservation fund), bagatelle are the custodians of the cheetahs, which are kept in a 12 hectare enclosure. Unable to fend for themselves, the three orphans namely, Ralf, Etosha, and Tuano are fed and cared lovingly by them here at bagatelle.

After this, a sundowner on the dune will await you, with refreshments and a Namibian snack, while enjoying a breath taking sunset in the Kalahari.

Bagatelle has a variety of horses suitable for children, beginners, intermediate and advanced riders.
Experience the Kalahari in silence with only the sounds of nature, on well trained quarter horses (cowboy horses) accompanied with a guide.

Enjoy refreshing drink in an ostrich egg shell on the dune, before heading back to the ranch.

After dinner, this drive offers the adventures one, the opportunity to look out with the aid of a strong spotlight, for various nocturnal animals such as aardvark, bat-eared foxes, porcupines, springhare, aardwolf, wild cats, birds, such as owls and so much more. This will be accompanied with hot gluwein/sherry in winter or something refreshing in summer.

A game drive, cheetah experience & sundowner on the dune

A game drive in the reserve with a variety of game such as giraffe, kudu, zebra, oryx, blue-wildebeest, eland and much more. The reserve has some of the highest dunes in this region, with views over the pans, characteristic to the Kalahari. Between the dunes, which are called streets, are the beautiful acacia trees. The Kalahari has more than 150 species of birds. The well-known suricate (meerkat) is also to be seen, although they are very scarce.

Cheetah experience allows one the opportunity to come up close to the cheetah, great for taking photos. The guides will provide interesting facts about this incredible cat and the history of the cheetahs in their care.

After this, a sundowner on the dune will await you, with refreshments and a Namibian snack, while enjoying a breath taking sunset in the Kalahari.

EXPERIENCE THE NAMIB
DESERT ON HORSEBACK
For the more adventurous spirit, Desert Homestead Lodge offers a unique experience where guests can ride out onto the private reserve and sleep out in nature. The reserve is situated between the majestic red sand sea of the Namib Desert and the rugged Naukluft mountains.
Leaving the stables and lodge behind, an unforgettable journey set off through wide open plains riding over a varied terrain changing from soft, sandy, stretched open fields, to rockier mountain trails, through dry riverbeds, under social weavers nests and around camelthorn trees.
The experienced guide will eagerly tell more about the environment, fauna and flora. Riders are almost guaranteed to come across a herd or two of grazing Oryx, springbok, or Zebra and some varieties of smaller carnivores, such as Jackal and bat-eared foxes.
Riding takes place at a comfortable pace so that everyone feels comfortable. Slower riders can hang back while more experienced riders go for long stretched-out gallops over grassy plains while winding the way towards the tented Camp, where refreshments await for a truly remarkable sundowner with magnificent views. After watching the sunset over the majestic mountains it’s time to kick off the boots, relax and enjoy the Namibian night skies. While Dinner gets ready on the campfire true Namibian style a refreshing shower awaits.
Dinner is served next to the crackling fire whilst conversation is sure to revert to the day riding. Then it’s time to retire to the comfortable tent or even a stretcher outside, for those who prefer to sleep out in nature under starry skies to get some rest before the next day’s riding.
Riders will wake up the next morning to the smell of coffee brewing and bacon and eggs cooking over an open fire while watching the horses being prepared for the next stretch of riding. After a hearty breakfast, it is time to stretch the legs once again and set off on horses who eagerly await the rest of the adventure.

This experience can be tailored. There are three different offers.
The ‚Namib Night‘ begins in the afternoon and consists of two stages of riding and one overnight stay in tents. The ‚Desert Experience‘ begins early in the morning and has three stages slightly
longer riding with an overnight stay in tents.
‚Stars of the Namib‘ with five stages of riding and two overnight stays (Namib Outpost / tented camp) offers a very intense experience for horse lovers, coupled with the exploration of nature in the Namib Desert. Riding to the next destination is done during the cooler time of the day while enjoying some lunch and downtime during the heat of the day.
Horses vary from very tame and easy to ride -even if for those who have never ridden before-, to ones that are just as easily manageable, but willing and able to give a more exciting ride.
Beginners are just as welcome to join on this adventure as more experienced riders.

SOSSUSVLEI EXCURSION
• Drive to the Sossusvlei dunes in a safari 4x4 vehicle accompanied by a Guide with in-depth knowledge of the area
• Departure seasonally, depending on national park opening hours. Activity is possible in the early morning or afternoon (in the morning preferably for photography – departing before sunrise. In the afternoon preferably for experiencing the dunes more in private, fewer visitors will be there)
• Minimum of 2 guests or single supplement applicable; small groups only (maximum of 6 guests per vehicle)
• Activity duration is approx. 1⁄2 a day (approx. 6 – 7 hours)
• Rate includes a picnic in the dunes, guide, water, entrance fees

SUNDOWNER DRIVE
On the Witwater Reserve – 7000 ha.
• A relaxing way to end the day and enjoy beautiful views and a sundowner with drinks and snacks
• Starts in the afternoon and lasts 2 – 2 1⁄2 hours, departure times change seasonally; guests are back at the lodge just before dinner
• Minimum of 2 guests or a single supplement applicable, max. 6 guests per vehicle
• Includes sundowner-drinks and snacks

OTHER ACTIVITIES IN THE AREA

• Quad biking
• Hot air ballooning
• Scenic flights
The team at Desert Homestead Lodge will be happy to organize all activities of other providers in the area.
The reception team informs the guests in detail about the start and departure times, depending on the season, as well as about meeting points, equipment, clothes etc. of the activities of the next day during the dinner.
For participation in afternoon activities, check-in is necessary until 2 p.m. In the case of a later arrival, it is not possible to guarantee a performance or attendance due to the different start times.

This drive takes about 3 hours, through the scenically beautiful lodge property, with selected stops at sites to view and learn about bushman rock art. Ai Aiba Lodge is home to over 200 different bushmen rock art sites and our guides have been professionally trained to interpret these paintings to our guests.
The drive will also include a stop for refreshments and snacks. A must-see for anyone visiting the area. This drive can be done both in the morning or the afternoon.

Morning drive – departs at 07h30 (Summer and Winter). Breakfast served from 07h00.
Afternoon drive – departs 17h00 in Summer*, and 16h00 in Winter*.

Rates for activities available in documentation.

*Summer months = Jan, Feb, Mar, Sep, Oct, Nov and Dec.
*Winter months = Apr, May, Jun, Jul & Aug.

Walking the area surrounding the Lodge is highly encouraged and is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the Erongo Mountains. Our guides have been very well trained on the interesting Fauna and Flora of the area and are available to escort guests through the property.

?Guided Morning walks:
Breakfast is available in the restaurant from 07h00.
Your guide will take juice and snacks along for en-route. Please carry your own water.
Please ensure that you wear good walking shoes, and have adequate sun protection.

1)Ai Aiba Walk:
This walk is 2 – 3 hours in duration and can be of varying degrees of difficulty depending on your preference. It will include visits to certain rock art sites, and a focus on the smaller intricacies of nature.
Morning walk departs at 07h30 (Summer and Winter), from the restaurant.

2)Walk & Drive:
This activity starts from the lodge with a 10min drive to Moringa valley. From there guests hike to a number of different rock art sites, including some fantastic viewpoints along the way. Then another short drive (10-15min), followed by another hike through majestic landscape to view some more rock art sites and interesting rock formations. A short 20min drive will then take you back to the lodge. Total duration is approximately 3 hours.
Morning walk departs at 07h30 (Summer and Winter), from the restaurant.

3) Walk with visit to the San Living Museum:
This walk is approximately 3 hours. Our guides will walk with you to the San Living Museum, stopping at certain rock art sites en-route. Once at the Living Museum the bushman will take guests on a bushwalk, and then our guides will lead you back to the lodge again.
Morning walk departs at 07h30 (Summer and Winter), from the restaurant.

?Guided sundowner walk:
Very close to the lodge, you will be guided up a granite hill where you can relax and enjoy a cold
‘sundowner’ drink while watching the sun set over spectacular views of the Erongo Mountains.
Sundowner walk departs at 18h30 (Summer) and 17h30 (Winter), from the restaurant
Rate: Included in the rate (excluding drinks). Note that our guide will gladly take your drinks order and carry the drinks up to the sundowner spot for you.

Rates for activities available in documentation

*Summer months = Jan, Feb, Mar, Sep, Oct, Nov and Dec.
*Winter months = Apr, May, Jun, Jul & Aug.

Why walk when you can ride? A cycling adventure that mirrors the leisurely pace of our guided sundowner walk. You leave from the lodge late afternoon, on E-bikes and cycle along jeep tracks to a tranquil sundowner spot in the bush. Enjoy a ‘sundowner’ drink and snacks with panoramic views as the sun begins to set. Return to the lodge via a fun single track in the twilight. Trip can also be done in reverse – out on the single track and back on the jeep track; please discuss with your guide.

Rates for activities available in documentation

If you love mountain biking, you will love our trails. We have worked with expert trail builders to create a network of trails that let you discover this amazing landscape at your own speed. You can see the ancient Bushmen Rock Art Sites or spot some wildlife while riding on scenic trails.
Our trails are suitable for riders of all abilities, but we focus on making them fun, free-flowing and beautiful. There are many trails to choose from, but we have marked three routes with different lengths and difficulties, using jeep tracks or specially made single track trails. If you want more challenge and adventure, you can try some of the extensions that go to the granite outcrops of the property.
Our trails are well marked and maintained.
You can bring your own bike, rent one of our new Specialized Levo E-Bikes or join one of our guided E-Bike Tours.

•Guided Mountain Bike Tour, including E-Bike Rental:
Take a professional guide who knows the trails like the back of their hand and can show you the best spots to enjoy the scenery and the thrill. No need to worry about getting lost or missing out on anything, just follow your guide and have a blast on your e-bike!

Duration: Max. 4 hours
Minimum age requirement for the E-Bike Rental and Mountain bike trails is 8 years.
Children 8 and over: quoted adult rate

Rates for activities available in documentation

•Specialized Levo E-Bike Rental:
Don't worry if you don't have your own mountain bike. You can rent one of our awesome Specialized Levo E-Bikes. They are the best in the market for Mountain E-Bikes. You'll have a blast riding them for hours without any trouble.

Duration: Max. 4 hours. Please advise Reception of your plans and ensure that you have our number in your cellphone (+264 64-570330). Please also ensure you collect a map from Reception and take it with you or download our online map.

Minimum age requirement for the E-Bike Rental and Mountain bike trails is 8 years
Children 8 and over: quoted adult rate

Rates for activities available in documentation

Mountain Bike Routes:
Light Green Route: A lovely introduction to the trails on Ai Aiba. Generally easy-going, predominantly jeep track riding.

Dark Green Route: Although this is only 30km, this ride is not to be underestimated. There are a lot of new single tracks on this route and even though it is not very technical, it is slow going and requires constant concentration and effort.

Blue Route: This route is a bit shorter than the Dark Green Route but also allows you to ride some of the best single tracks on the farm.

Various tours are available, and can all be booked directly at the lodge. Times are flexible, and bookings can usually be made according to your requirement. Please ask at Reception for more information.

•Bushwalk – approx. 2hours. Learn about hunting, snaring, tracking, lighting fire and collecting bush food.
•Live in the village – approx. 2hours. Learn about singing and dancing, lighting a fire, making ropes and jewelry.
•Combination (Action day) – approx. 4hours. A combination of the bushwalk and the “live in the village” tour.

*Rates on request

Etosha Village is equipped with two open-view game viewing vehicles that take a maximum of 10 passengers per vehicle.

Morning drives to Etosha National Park commence at approximately 06H30, depending on gate opening times which vary during seasonal changes. These trips last for approximately 6 hours and follow a route through the Andersson Gate to Okaukuejo and further on to various waterholes in a circular route back to Okaukuejo.

Our experienced guides driving these vehicles have extensive knowledge of the area and animals and give a "running commentary" as the trips proceed.

Etosha Village is equipped with two open-view game viewing vehicles that take a maximum of 10 passengers per vehicle.

Full-day trips to Etosha National Park commence at approximately 06H30, depending on gate opening times which vary during seasonal changes. These trips follow a route through the Andersson Gate to Okaukuejo and further on to various waterholes in a wide circular route back to Okaukuejo.

Lunch packs can be ordered at reception to take along or guests can have an optional lunch stop at one of the restcamps inside the Park for lunch (Lunch will be for your own account).

Our experienced guides driving these vehicles have extensive knowledge of the area and animals and give a "running commentary" as the trips proceed.

What better way than to end an exciting day of game-viewing in Etosha with a relaxing Sundowner Drive.

We depart from the Etosha Village in the late afternoon in our open game viewer vehicles. You will experience breath-taking views of the Mopanie forests with occasional photo stops where our knowledgeable guides explain the fauna and flora.

For sunset we go higher up to the mountains to watch a spectacular sunset while enjoying sundowner drinks and snacks.

Weather Permitting.

See our Southern sky and various constellations. Appreciate the spectacular Namibian star-studded skies! Take a journey through the heavens with us as we introduce you to the basic constellations, the Milky Way and a peek through our telescope at the planets.

Weather Dependent & Seasonal (only available when constellations are visible - approximately from May until October)

Enquire at the Adventure Centre for availability.

Our sunrise nature walk takes place along a beautiful footpath winding through the lush Mopane Forest.

Our knowledgeable guide will focus on tracks, indigenous tree species and local wildlife. We'll spend some time at our hide where nature will completely surround you.

Weather Permitting.

Let our Team at Etosha Village whisk you away to an enchanted venue in the Mopane Forest for a spectacular Bush Dinner.

Sip refreshing Sundowner Drinks while watching the sun set over the Etosha National Park and after dark sit down to a real Bush Cuisine Experience.

Our well trained Chefs will tantalize your taste buds with our authentic Bush Cuisine Menu prepared to perfection on open fires.

Our Bush Boma has the following facilities: Table and Chair Set Up, Buffet, Bush Bar, Bathroom Facilities, Star Gazing Deck.

Includes: Buffet Dinner and Bush Bar facility

Weather Dependent & Seasonal (approximately from May until October)

Located just 9 km from the Mushara Collection, Etosha National Park is a magnificent game reserve in the northern part of Namibia, covering a vast area of 22,270 km². If you're a wildlife enthusiast, this park is a must-visit destination as it is home to dozens of mammal and reptile species, several amphibian species, and over 300 bird species.

It's the perfect place to witness Namibia's greatest daily wildlife dramas unfold. Joining a game drive with Mushara's experienced and enthusiastic guides, you can learn about the Etosha pan, the flora and fauna, and the diverse animal species that roam the park. The game viewing vehicles are designed to withstand any weather condition, providing a spacious and comfortable ride with 360-degree unobstructed views from elevated seats. Thanks to the guides' up-to-date information on game movements, they have a high success rate for spotting game, ensuring your visit is a truly memorable experience.

Get to know the Namibian bush and nature with the guidance from one of our highly experienced field guides. They will share the knowledge of their ancestors.

This game drive offers the opportunity to spot 25 different animal species. After an adventurous couple of hours, you will end the drive on one of our scenic mountain tops.

This adrenaline filled morning will give you an experience that will form part of you. Experience coming up close to the wild white Rhino and get a sense of these majestic animals.

This activity gives you the opportunity to explore nature on your own time. You will be dropped off at one of the look out points, with a snack basket and a radio. Once you are done, you just give the lodge a shout on the radio, and a guide will come get you.

Become one with nature, whilst roaming the plains of Otjiwa. Our professional guides will make you feel at ease on horseback.

After a hard day's adventuring, relax with a massage, either in the dedicated spa and wellness centre or in the privacy of your room.

Experience the culture and history of the Herero tribe. The Otjiwa guide will transfer you to the village, where the local guide will take you through the history and evolution of their culture, including dress and architecture. Enjoy lunch before returning to the lodge