Namibia Highlights, 19 Days, Guided Tour (Silver Option)

Experience the wild expanse of the Gondwana Canyon Park where the fences of ten farms were dismantled to recreate a Namibian Eden. Take a guided drive to the Fish River Canyon to be inspired by new perspectives. Celebrate sunrise amidst the quiver trees and sunset from a hillock, overlooking spectacular scenery. The Canyon lodges are comfortable havens to take a break from the road. Explore and discover the ancient wonderland, or simply luxuriate in the peace, lounging at the poolside, snoozing in the coolness of your chalet or sitting on the terrace dipping into a book.

This hike (about 6 km) takes you right into Gondwana Canyon Park. You are accompanied by a guide who will gladly share his knowledge about the fascinating desert landscape around the canyon. This Tour does not go the Fish River Canyon. (Approx. 3 hours)

We drive you to a spot with a grand view. Watch the sunrise while enjoying coffee and tea. Then we walk back the short distance to the lodge. This tour does not include the Fish River Canyon. (Approx. 1 hour)

A hiking trail takes you from Canyon Village up to a mountain plateau. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the vast plains adjacent to the canyon. At ‘Archway Rock’ you start to make your way back into the plain and to the lodge. (2 - 3 hours)

Especially for guests who want a break from the wheel or those on a fly-in safari. You are taken to the two major lookout points along the Fish River Canyon. Our guide will tell you all about the canyon's fascinating geology. (Approx. 3 hours)

The 3 hour drive is the perfect opportunity for you to acquaint yourself with the geology, flora and fauna of the Gondwana Canyon Park. This tour does not include the Fish River Canyon. It starts at Canyon Lodge or Canyon Village. Approx. 3 hours

All guests are invited to wrap up the day with a short excursion to our very own ‘local’ mountain. Have a drink and watch the sun go down.

Ready for a thrilling but safe experience? Join our guided night walk (3km) with UV light and a laser pointer after dinner. May only be booked directly at the lodge.

night walk Credit: GondwanaCollectionNamibia

Self-guided trip to the Wild Horses viewpoint at Garub

Lüderitz is just 120km away and the ghost town of Kolmanskop only 115km (tar road). Klein-Aus Vista is the ideal starting point for a trip to both places. 20km from Aus, on the way to or back from Luderitz, visit the Garub water hole where the wild horses and several other animals of the desert plains can be found.

Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park, (God’s Window), min. 4 persons per excursion

Explore the flora and fauna of the Succulent Karoo desert on your own. You have five different hiking trails to choose from. They are well marked and take you through the wildly romantic scenery of the Aus Mountains. Duration: between 2 and 5 hours

There is a choice of different routes on well marked trails : varying from 18 km to 35 km - mostly single track trails, recommended for riders with intermediate skills - Rent dual suspension bikes.

These drives in the late afternoon present an opportunity to experience the incredible scenic beauty of Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park at dusk. (min. 3 persons per excursion)

with MOLA MOLA SAFARIS

For over 27 years, Mola Mola Safaris have been the pioneers in creating epic adventure experiences on the Namibian coast. Marine cruises on the best boats with loads of marine life sightings, beach landings, sea kayaking, beach Braais (barbeque) and a Sandwich Harbour 4×4 experience in the ancient, magnificent dunes of Namibia. We are at the forefront of experience creation at te edge of the Namib Sand Sea (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Atlantic Ocean.

MOLA MOLA MARINE DOLPHIN CRUISE

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Mola Mola Marine Dolphin Cruise and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Skeleton Coast of Namibia and the incredible richness of the Atlantic Ocean. Get up close to an abundance of bird and mammal life and revel in the refreshing sea air while enjoying fresh oysters and bubbles - all in the morning. Common sightings include Bottlenose and Heavy Side dolphins, Cape Fur seals, Mola Mola's, penguins, Leatherback turtles, and whales (July-November). Upon special request, lunch can be arranged on the beach. Our tours are available in English, German and Afrikaans.

Looking for a more exclusive experience? Request a quote for private tours or indulge in a Beach Braai (BBQ) lunch on Pelican Point Peninsula.

with MOLA MOLA SAFARIS

For over 27 years, Mola Mola Safaris have been the pioneers in creating epic adventure experiences on the Namibian coast. Marine cruises on the best boats with loads of marine life sightings, beach landings, sea kayaking, beach Braais (barbeque) and a Sandwich Harbour 4×4 experience in the ancient, magnificent dunes of Namibia. We are at the forefront of experience creation at te edge of the Namib Sand Sea (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Atlantic Ocean.

MOLA MOLA SANDWICH HARBOUR 4X4 EXPERIENCE

Mola Mola Sandwich Harbour 4X4 trip is part of the Namibian adventure. Drive between the crashing ocean and ancient dunes of the Namib, and when at the top, experience an endless view of sand and sky. Tours are available in English, German and Afrikaans.

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

A scenic nature drive in the ephemeral Huab River and surrounding valley, including a picnic lunch, exposes visitors to unique geological formations and the possibility of sighting the elusive desert-adapted elephants and rhinos.

(Available during stays of two nights or more only)

Three open game drive cars are permanently available with guides.

Offered either before or after breakfast, the best time to do these walks is before the sun reaches its zenith as, even in winter, temperatures can rise to 30 degrees during the day and most animals prefer to find shelter during that time of the day. Longer walking routes for the fitter, or more adventurous guest, can be offered though.

A drive is offered in a game viewer vehicle, departing the lodge after breakfast to explore the nature reserve and the beauty of the morning.

Another drive is offered in the late afternoon, taking in the magnificent Namibian sunset, along, of course, with the obligatory sun-downer!

Stargazing doesn’t have to be only after dinner: sometimes you can best view Saturn, Venus, or Jupiter and his moons, before sunrise . . .

Over the years, Huab Lodge, which is situated in habitats where several endemic or near endemic Namibian bird species occur, has become a ‘Mecca’ for bird watchers and photographers alike.

Among its 210 bird species, the area boasts 9 of the endemic desert bird species including; Hartlaub spurfowl, Rüppel’s parrot, Southern Violet wood hoopoe, Monteiro’s hornbill, Carp’s tit, Barecheeked babbler, Damara rockrunner, and White-tailed shrike.

In late September the Madagascar Bee-eater arrives to breed in Namibia, staying until mid-April, while the Violet-backed starling, Rosy-faced lovebirds, and the boisterous Bare-cheeked babbler can be seen from lodge itself all year round. At sunset, visitors enjoying a sundowner in the main building are also in for a very special surprise!

There are also many mammal and reptile species that are of particular interest in the semi-desert environment at Huab Lodge.

This full day activity starts with a quick 7am coffee before departure. With fences having, for the most part, been removed in the Damaraland area, the desert-adapted elephant are free to roam the entire area and the morning will be spent exploring both the Huab and Aba-Huab rivers, in search of these magnificent behemoths.

At lunchtime, we will find a shady spot to stop and have a bite, before starting the slow meander back to the lodge, stopping off at some unusual and unique sites along the way, aiming to return to the lodge before sunset.

Departing from the Lodge, at a pre-arranged time, we will head into the dry Huab riverbed. We will take a leisurely journey, meandering along the ephemeral river, looking for the near-endemic bird species as well as flora and fauna. Perhaps we will even spot the illusive desert-adapted elephants for which the Damaraland area is world-renowned.

We will have ample opportunities to enjoy the amazing scenery, stretch our legs and explore, before returning to the lodge at about 12:30.

Heading to the East, away from the Huab River valley, onto the neighbouring farm where there are examples of San art and rock engravings. Damaraland has been inhabited by indigenous tribes for more than 2,000 years and this excursion offers an interesting look at both the ancient and modern history of Namibia.

Explore the national park with our guides who are familiar with the waterholes and the animals that visit them. Let them introduce you to African wildlife from the elevated seat of a game vehicle. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best game viewing times. And, after Etosha enchantment return to the lodge to dive into the cool waters of the pools. Dine on the veranda under a dome of stars, sit next to a blazing fire or watch the ruby sun sink gracefully into the landscape. Be at peace.

Explore the National Park and its amazing wildlife in a 9-seater game vehicle. Refreshments, snacks, entrance fees to the National Park and passenger liability insurance are included.

Etosha Safari Lodge Credit: GondwanaCollectionNamibia Etosha Safari Lodge - Activities

Etosha Safari Lodge Credit: Gondwana Collection Namibia Etosha Safari Lodge - Activities

Etosha Safari Lodge Credit: Gondwana Collection Namibia Etosha Safari Lodge - Activities

Etosha Safari Lodge Credit: GondwanaCollectionNamibia Etosha Safari Lodge - Activities

Explore the national park with our guides who are familiar with the waterholes and the animals that visit them. Let them introduce you to African wildlife from the elevated seat of a game vehicle. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best game viewing times. And, after Etosha enchantment return to the lodge to dive into the cool waters of the pools. Dine on the veranda under a dome of stars, sit next to a blazing fire or watch the ruby sun sink gracefully into the landscape. Be at peace.

Explore the National Park and its amazing wildlife in a 9-seater game vehicle. Refreshments, snacks, entrance fees to the National Park and passenger liability insurance are included. Departing morning or afternoon.

The Dream Cruiser is Onguma's newest and most unique under the stars sleep-out experience.

Arriving in time to enjoy sundowners and take a tour of your overnight accommodation, this sleep out in the wilderness of the reserve is on our custom built Land Cruiser, featuring a full bathroom on the lower deck and a bedroom with lounge area on the upper deck.

A night on the Dream Cruiser calls for al fresco picnic-style dining is delivered by our chef for you to enjoy as the evening turns to night and the stars dance in all their glory.
A ranger is on call via a two-way radio, so make the most of this time and relax in the safety and complete comfort of this unique space.

After a good night's rest, you can enjoy morning tea/coffee with homemade rusks before being collected for breakfast at the lodge.

Onguma's fabulous new water-level hide affords guests a great opportunity to calmly sit and enjoy nature unobserved. Amateur and professional photographers alike love the angles and light from this equipped hide.

There is a small ablution facility nearby, benches from which to view the surroundings and lots of windows and vantage points for creative camera angles.

Onguma Nature Reserve consists of 34 000 hectares of Namibian wilderness & is home to numerous plains game, more than 300 bird species ?and even 4 of the Big 5. ?The Reserve boasts over thirty different animal species. Plains game roam freely on the Reserve and predators although not always easy to spot, are nevertheless common residents of the area. Lions and Cheetahs are frequently seen and often heard. There is a healthy black rhino and leopard population and hyenas are also often seen and heard.

Etosha is a 22 750km² wildlife sanctuary in Namibia – one of Africa’s most stable and accessible countries. Etosha, meaning ‘place of dry water’, and refers to a flat calcrete depression (or pan) of about 5 000km². The ‘Pan’ (overlooked by the Onguma Reserve) provides a great, parched, silver-white backdrop of shimmering mirages to an area of semi-arid savannah grassland and thorn scrub. The pan itself contains water only after very good rains and sometimes for only a few days each year, but is enough to stimulate the growth of a blue-green algae which lures thousands of flamingos.

Africa takes on a new perspective when you experience it on foot as the first explorers did. A bush walk is a unique physical, mental and spiritual adventure through nature. Experience the sights, smells and sounds of the Namibian bush by conducting an early morning leisurely walk accompanied by one of our experienced armed rangers.

?Johan, our resident therapist, is a professional massage therapist with over 15 years experience, having lived and worked at renowned Wellness Centres in Asia and Africa. His passion for and dedication to massage therapy originated in the East, where he was trained and educated by the best teachers in their respective fields. Having the opportunity to spend considerable time with monks in Thailand, has also led him to incorporate focused awareness into his massage therapies. He has also upskilled three ladies from Onguma and they too are available and receiving great reviews!

Namibia can offer a truly memorable and interactive experience in the wilderness for families travelling with children by offering children's accommodation, specially designed game drives for children, activities and meals.

Onguma Nature Reserve welcomes children to explore and experience the uniqueness of the untamed African bush with its many wild animals both the big and small!

At Onguma Bush Camp there has always been an emphasis on family and the Lodge encourages families. The staff go out of their way to make sure the young ones have the time of their lives and the parents get their own satisfying safari experience. The bushveld of Onguma is a wild wonderland, a child's dream come true, and the Lodge delights in being able to share her secrets with the next generation.

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.

Rhino Tracking Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Rhino Tracking Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Rhino Tracking Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Rhino Tracking Credit: Otjiwa Collection

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.

Nature Drive Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Nature Drive Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Nature Drive Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Nature Drive Credit: Otjiwa Collection

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

Horse riding Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Horse riding Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Horse riding Credit: Otjiwa Collection

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.

Bird Watching Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Bird Watching Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Bird Watching Credit: Otjiwa Collection

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.

Spa Treatments Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Spa Treatments Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Spa Treatments Credit: Otjiwa Collection

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

Ombo Village Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Ombo Village Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Ombo Village Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Ombo Village Credit: Otjiwa Collection

Ombo Village Credit: Otjiwa Collection