CLASSIC SAFARI PORTFOLIO - Discover Namibia

Depart from Sossusvlei Lodge in the late afternoon on a leisurely drive on the Lodge's private reserve. Watch the shadows lengthen as your guide takes you out to a panoramic location where sundowner drinks will be served as you relax and watch the spectacular sunset. The inner tranquillity that a desert sunset imparts while you sit amongst nature is really something special...

An early start from the Lodge to enter the Namib-Naukluft Park at sunrise, while the temperature is still mild and when the dune contrasts are at their best. You will travel in one of our all-terrain URI Gameviewer vehicles, custom-built in Namibia for the Lodge, with your own specially trained guide who will share all his knowledge of the area, animals, plant life and much more with you. Regular stops are made on the spectacular ±60 kilometre drive through the dune corridor down to the Vlei to gain information or take in the vistas. At Dune 45, we make a stop to view the the world's most photographed dune. Further along, a gradual 2,6 kilometer round-trip guided walk up to Dead Vlei is a must for the healthy visitors. The more energetic have the opportunity to climb to the upper ridge of Big Daddy Dune, one of the highest dunes in this area! We spend time exploring Sossusvlei before returning to the Lodge approximately 5½ hours later in time for lunch.

The guided nature walk starts at sunrise, departing from the Lodge and takes place on and around the spectacular Elim Dune Belt. Our knowledgeable guides focus on the small things often overlooked – nocturnal animal tracks, plant species and smaller wildlife.

Experience the remarkable depths of Sesriem Canyon. Our experienced guides will share the history behind this magnificent natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab River.

Discover the majesty of the Namib Desert by Helicopter! Our Pilots are well experienced and will guide you through the scenery on an adventurous and informative flight. We offer a range of scenic flights over the breath-taking grass plains to the towering dunes of Sossusvlei and the hidden mysteries of Deadvlei. Exciting flips over the Sesriem Canyon, Dune 45 and Elim Dune as well as custom built flights for photographers that wish to focus on specific areas of the Namib.

Desert Air have a well-maintained 6-seater Cessna 210 light aircraft permanently based on the Sossusvlei Lodge property along with an experienced pilot who also doubles as a trained "aerial" desert guide. A number of routes are available on request, including: A 40 minute trip to Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon will provide you with wonderful aerial photographs of the Vlei and Canyon. A longer hour trip to the forbidden coast (Sperrgebiet) and the area known as Lange Wand, which is the coastal area of the Namib Desert, will provide you incredible views where a 'sea of desert dunes' meet the Atlantic ocean. An hour and a half trip over the Sossusvlei area will include Conception Bay, a seal colony, shipwreaks and even old diamond miners camps.

"Up, up and away" as you sail silently over the reddish dune sea of the Namib. Add an exhilarating dimension to your visit to the desert. The duration of the excursion is approximately 3½ hours. The Hot Air Balloon flight itself takes about one hour and ends with an exclusive Champagne Breakfast at the landing spot in scenic nature. The Breakfast is followed by a Nature drive back to Sossusvlei Lodge. Special group rates apply for groups of min 24 pax, max 110 pax. Due to the desert temperatures this activity is offered in the mornings only. Guests are collected at the lodge ½ hour before sunrise. The balloon rises as the sun rises. The first light hour of the day is known to be the most spectacular, especially in the desert with the rich contrast of colour and shape on the towering sand dunes of the Sossusvlei Area, on the vast desert plains and surrounding mountain ranges.

Host you special function or bush dinner in the heart of the Namib Desert! With views of towering red sand dunes amidst the vast desert plains, this is the most awe-inspiring venue nature has on offer. Sossusvlei Lodge have perfected the art of outdoor catering enthusing guests with delightful bush dinners, breakfasts at Sossusvlei, special events and even private intimate dinners. Each function will be planned according to your requirements. You can be assured this will be a function that will be talked about and remembered for a lifetime!

Host you special breakfast function in Sossusvlei with views of the towering red sand dunes under the shade of the age-old acacias. Sossusvlei Lodge can provide a full English or Continental Breakfast complete with a table and chair setup. Each function will be planned according to your requirements.

Explore this ancient and arid landscape with your guide on the Nature Drive. Departing early in the morning, the guide will show you that this harsh, dry environment is alive with desert-adapted flora and fauna, and perhaps, if lucky, discover the desert-adapted elephant.

Usually departs at 06h30 and will go out for +/- 4 – 6 hours.
Drinks & snacks are included.

Departing mid-afternoon your guide will take you to explore this diverse landscape of ancient Damaraland, filled with geological wonders and other surprises.

Learn about the fascinating geological formations of Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes, and discover Namibia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Twyfelfontein - known for being one of the largest and oldest collections of San rock art engravings in the world!

Usually departs at 15h00 and will last for +/-2 hours. along with seeing Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes.

Guests are transported to the museum to learn about the traditional lifestyle, crafts, customs, and practices of the Damara people who inhabit this area. It is an opportunity to also engage with them as they live today.

Damara Living Museum Credit: Chiwani Safari Camps - Damara Living Museum

Damara Living Museum Credit: Chiwani Safari Camps - Damara Living Museum

Damara Living Museum Credit: Chiwani Safari Camps - Damara Living Museum

Damara Living Museum Credit: Chiwani Safari Camps - Damara Living Museum

Relax and watch a magical and memorable sunset.

Walk up to the sundowner location and make yourself comfortable. Order your drink of choice, or choose from one of our famous cocktails or mocktails and delight in sumptuous snacks.

For a very special experience, an Elephant Nature Drive is a must-do; explore the terrain in search of these elusive desert-dwelling elephants who have adapted to the dry and sandy conditions of northern Namibia.

Camp Kipwe offers guided nature walks around the Twyfelfontein Conservancy, as well as trips to see the Bushman etchings, the mysterious Organ Pipes and Burnt Mountain. This 2 hour trip sets out every afternoon and visits the main highlights of this part of Damaraland including the rock art at Twyfelfontein.

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)

At a typical Namibian Rural Village families are divided into three areas when dining. Traditionally one area is dedicated to men, one to women and the other for the elderly and children. When Etosha Village was designed, we remained true to this tradition and created three different dining areas at our restaurant, but of course not split into gender groups.

Etosha Village is well known for inspiring cuisine and many guests have claimed that it is the best buffet dinner experience in Namibia! You can start your day with a scrumptious buffet breakfast with an extensive selection of all the favourite delectable breakfast foods and treats.

Lunch is served a' la carte with loads of mouth-watering dishes to choose from.

The popular buffet dinner will leave you spoiled for choice between the salads, side dishes, grilled meats and stir-fries - all prepared fresh and in front of every guest! For the perfect ending there is a range of decadent dessert sensations as well as a variety of cheeses and biscuits.

At the buffet area there is a 24 hour coffee station with a variety of coffees and teas to enjoy at any time!

Enticing lunch packs can also be ordered the evening before at reception to take along on self-drives or guided excursions to Etosha National Park.

The unique open-plan bar at Etosha Village is replicating the round shape of typical African-style huts usually found in traditional villages. The bar area feature a cosy fire pit to create a welcoming atmosphere and a big screen television for viewing nature programs and sporting events whilst enjoying your refreshments.

We stock a wide selection of beverages as well as an impressive collection of the best South African wines.

Be sure to taste our famous house wine, the Spotty Cellar Collection, and be entertained by the story of our very own resident zebra, Spotty.

The Bar is always open during service hours.

You are welcomed at Etosha Village by our friendly reception staff.

Once you have had the opportunity to explore our establishment you will understand where the concept 'Village' originates from! The design is based on a typical Namibian traditional 'Rural Village' as you would find in the northern countryside – the outlay of Etosha Village was planned accordingly.

The Reception, Cuca Shop and Adventure Centre are all round structures or 'Rondawels' - in the rural villages it is a symbol of being 'open and friendly' – everyone is welcome!

At Reception we have Internet facilities and a chess set should guests wish to use it.

There is a 24 hour coffee station available at our buffet area with a variety of coffees and teas to enjoy at any time!

Pool towels are available at reception to use at the swimming pools.

The large garden and pool area create a relaxing environment at Etosha Village. A refreshing dip in the large 4 x 10m pool will go a long way after a hot day of sightseeing in the park. A medium rounded pool is ideally situated for parents to cool off while they can keep a close eye on their children in the adjacent kiddie pool. There are quite a few spots around the pool area with comfortable sunbeds to relax with a good book or to enjoy a few cocktails and beverages.

Pool towels are available at reception. Reading material and sunblock are available to purchase from the Cuca Shop.

The pool is only available to paying guests and is used at one's own risk. Children must be under the supervision of a responsible adult at all times.

Next to the reception area there is another African style hut (rondavel) hosting the 'one stop Cuca shop'. The term "Cuca Shop" originated from the local languages for a shop that sells everything.

The Etosha Village Cuca shop stocks a little bit of everything and also have cooldrinks, ice-cream, reading materials, curios, cell phone airtime and much more!

Etosha Village is equipped with two open-view game viewing vehicles that take a maximum of 10 passengers per vehicle. Guests can choose to go on a morning drive or a full day excursion to Etosha National Park.

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. There is also a stop-over at "Olifant's Bad" where guests are treated to light refreshments prepared by our gourmet kitchen and have the opportunity to 'stretch their legs' before continuing back to Okaukuejo where (weather permitting) they can spend a while watching the animals at the water hole.

Should vehicles be available, full-day trips to Etosha National Park can also be arranged.

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

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.

End your amazing evening by joining our Team for a spectacular Star Gazing Session on a raised mopanie deck and peek through our Telescope to discover the magic that our famous star studded skies have on offer.

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

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.

The Okonjima Nature Reserve sprawls over 200 square kilometres of undulating plains, mountainous outcrops, and riverine thickets, and it is here that leopard (Panthera pardus), the most adaptable of all the wild cats, thrive. Read more about our Leopard Research.

These intelligent, solitary predators occur in high density in the expanse of Okonjima Nature Reserve’s multi-faceted topography. The Reserve’s predator research programme has spanned three decades, and its findings have provided great insight to leopard behavioral patterns as well as offered an upbeat prognosis for a sustainable future for the species in today’s Africa.

A two-day Okonjima stay offers the best chance to view wild leopard in Namibia, as well as those collared for research purposes, in their natural habitats.

The Okonjima Nature Reserve, a huge protected area set amongst the rugged commercial farmlands of central Namibia, comprises a diversified ecosystem representative of both the larger and small mammals of Namibia, as well as most of the country’s endemic birds.

Game drives and guided bush walks offer visitors an intimate, up-close perspective of Namibia’s wildlife and, especially, its most protected species.

The Okonjima Nature Reserve is home to, and runs extensive research projects on rare and endangered species, big and small.

LEOPARD TRACKING

The Leopard ‘experience’ will take you out into the Okonjima Nature Reserve and will allow you to spend more time with our experienced guides and participate in the research data collection for our long-standing leopard project and newly introduced brown hyaena programme. Some of our adult leopards are radio collared which enables the guides to track them with a specialised telemetry device contributing to frequent viewing, giving visitors an opportunity to observe these magnificent predators in their natural habitat and experience the fascinating behaviour and interactions between these two species while they compete for food. Although this significantly increases the chance of an excellent sighting, it cannot ever be guaranteed as they are wild free-roaming predators.
Morning activities (seasonal times): Departure 06:00 / 06:30 AM; Return 09:30 / 10:00 AM.
Afternoon activities (seasonal times): Departure: 15:30 / 16:00 PM; Return 19:00 / 19:30 PM.

ENDANGERED SPECIES NATURE DRIVE

This game-drive allows more time to enjoy and understand the Okonjima Nature Reserve as a natural island bound ecosystem. As the private Nature Reserve was established primarily to conserve some of our more threatened mammal species, it provides an increased chance to encounter these relatively rare animals. This is once again assisted by the AfriCat Foundation’s research projects on the shy brown hyaena, bat-eared fox and rhino. There are more than 40 mammal species within the Okonjima Nature Reserve, both large and small as well as a good representation of the typical flora. At the discretion of your guide, there may be the chance to view some of these animals, large or small.

Morning activities (seasonal times): Departure 06:00 / 06:30 AM; Return 09:30 / 10:00 AM.
Afternoon activities (seasonal times): Departure: 15:30 / 16:00 PM; Return 19:00 / 19:30 PM.

GAME DRIVE:

Experienced guides will entertain you with their knowledge, sharing interesting and enlightening information about the history of the Okonjima Nature Reserve and the research gathered over the past 30 years of conservation on Okonjima. On this trail, no telemetry device is used to track any of the carnivores researched by the AfriCat Foundation. Wildlife is the focus of the drive. Visitors are offered insight as our guides attempt to foster a general appreciation of the natural habitat of the Nature Reserve.
Morning activities (seasonal times): Departure 06:00 / 06:30 AM; Return 09:30 / 10:00 AM.
Afternoon activities (seasonal times): Departure: 15:30 / 16:00 PM; Return 19:00 / 19:30 PM.