Guests are picked up from their accommodation in Windhoek or at the airport for the leg of the journey. Just before Mariental, we drive east into the Kalahari Desert to overnight at Kalahari Anib Lodge. The stylish, spacious, and refreshing lodge is imbued with the spirit of the Kalahari with its burnished sand, ostrich eggshell light and camelthorn trees.
Optional extra activity: Sundowner Dune Drive
Driving time: ~2.5 hours
After a good night’s sleep and a full breakfast, it is time for a taste of the ancient Namib Desert. The route takes you past the majestic Namib Naukluft Mountains near Büllsport before reaching the Namib with its combination of spectacular desert scenery and majestic mountains. Namib Desert Lodge is set below an impressive ridge of fossilised dunes, formed 20 million years ago.
Driving time: ~4 hours
An early start to the day awaits. Much of the day is spent climbing the highest dunes in the world. Big Daddy offers a strenuous climb, but the view along the crest is entirely worth it. Upon descent, the whispering sands of the Namib lead to the ancient camelthorn trees of Dead Vlei – one of the most photographed areas in Sossusvlei. Exploration continues into the rugged Sesriem Canyon before returning to the lodge. Enjoy a sunset dune drive where the crimson horizon can be appreciated from the crest of the fossilised dunes, and some of the best scenery in the Gondwana Namib Park can be viewed.
Enjoy a buffet breakfast at Namib Desert Lodge before the journey through the fascinating desert landscape to Swakopmund. The first stop is the desert outpost of Solitaire, famous for its apple pie. The route crosses the Tropic of Capricorn, marking the sun’s turning point at 23˚ south on its annual journey through the heavens before meandering through the Gaub and Kuiseb canyons. The cool and often misty town of Swakopmund, which lies between the crashing Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert, balances the day’s journey perfectly. Old German architecture, wide streets, and a plethora of restaurants, coffee shops, and souvenir shops make this coastal town a joy to explore. The Delight Hotel is a fresh breeze in the desert, providing a delightful home for your stay in Swakopmund.
Driving time: ~4 hours
A highlight of a stay at The Delight is its delicious breakfast spread. Pour yourself a glass of champagne and freshly squeezed orange juice and savour Walvis Bay oysters before heading off to explore the town. Or choose an activity or excursion. Swakopmund is the adventure capital of Namibia, and excursions range from Living Desert tours, kayaking in the Walvis Bay lagoon and dolphin cruises to sandboarding, quad-biking, and skydiving. Take your pick, or just relax - ending the day in one of Swakopmund’s popular restaurants.
There is a wide range of optional extra activities.
After your day of fun and exploration, we continue northwards to Henties Bay along the coast before veering inland towards Uis and the Brandberg massif. As you near the Ugab River, look out for the striking Herero women with their colourful stalls. The next stop is the Petrified Forest, a testament to the Earth’s intriguing geological history. Your overnight stop, Damara Mopane Lodge, is 30km east of Khorixas. Built in a semi-circular labyrinth design with a turquoise pool at its centre, the lodge is a lovely and charming surprise. Each chalet has its very own garden with fresh vegetables, sunflowers and the occasional scarecrow peeking out. Stroll up the koppie in the late afternoon to watch the sunset and appreciate the expansive view over the mopane woodland before the inviting aromas of dinner call you back to the lodge.
Driving time: ~4 hours
Rock art is on the agenda today with a visit to Twyfelfontein, home to a treasure trove of ancient rock engravings. The area was once visited by groups of hunters and gatherers, who congregated at the rock pools in the dry season. Their shamans beseeched the gods for rain, healing for their people and luck for the hunt, hammering their prayers into the sandstone rock. The dry desert environment has preserved these engravings for thousands of years. Other geological stops include the Organ Pipes and the Burnt Mountain. For some local culture, you’ll visit the Damara Living Museum. Do not miss the afternoon walk to the sunset deck for a sundowner drink and an exceptional view of the landscape.
Today, we travel into the heart of the country, Etosha National Park, via Outjo, making it in time for an afternoon game drive in the park. After departing Damara Mopane, you’ll visit a Himba village before continuing to the Etosha National Park. Experience the bounty of this wildlife haven before returning to Etosha Safari Camp for supper. This relaxed and down-to-earth camp has a quirky restaurant based on the shebeens (taverns) of old. Musicians strum guitars in the courtyard and sing local tunes while the guests relish the excellent fare. Tap your toes and sing along at this lively, fun venue before returning by starlight to your comfortable room and the peace of an Etosha night.
Driving time: ~2 hours
Explore Etosha and its many waterholes where the wildlife gathers to slake its thirst. Every season has its own beauty in this special conservation area. The full-day drive allows you to view the array of sleek African wildlife in its natural surroundings. Return in the afternoon to the friendliness of Etosha Safari Camp for your last night of the tour.
Breakfast is enjoyed at the camp before the drive southwards back to Windhoek via Okahandja’s popular woodcarver’s market. Your guide will drop you off at your chosen accommodation in the capital city, Windhoek or at the airport.
Driving time: ~4 hours
