Classic Namibia Safari

8 days—Discover Namibia’s natural wonders—from towering dunes and coastal deserts to dramatic Damaraland and wildlife-rich Etosha.

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$3500 USD

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Safari summary

This unforgettable journey through Namibia showcases the country’s most iconic and diverse landscapes—from the surreal dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha. It's an adventure that blends breathtaking scenery, fascinating geological features, and some of the best wildlife viewing in Southern Africa.

The tour begins in the heart of the Namib Desert, where you'll explore the otherworldly beauty of Sossusvlei. Here, the world’s tallest sand dunes rise in fiery red tones against cobalt skies, creating a photographer’s dream. Sunrise over the dunes is an unforgettable spectacle, especially at iconic spots like Dune 45 and Deadvlei, where ancient camelthorn trees stand fossilized in a salt pan.

From the desert interior, we travel to the charming coastal town of Swakopmund. A strong German colonial influence remains visible in its architecture, cuisine, and culture. The town is a popular adventure hub, offering everything from sandboarding to scenic flights over the Skeleton Coast. Nearby Walvis Bay offers a contrasting wetland environment, home to large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds. A boat cruise in the lagoon is a highlight, with the chance to see Cape fur seals and even dolphins.

Continuing north, we skirt the edge of the Skeleton Coast—an eerily beautiful stretch of shoreline famed for its shipwrecks, wind-swept beaches, and bleached whale bones. The route offers a stark and haunting beauty unique to this part of Africa.

From the coast, we head inland into the rugged terrain of Damaraland. This dramatic region of rocky outcrops and ancient riverbeds is home to desert-adapted wildlife, including elephants, lions, and black rhinos. The landscapes are equally impressive, with highlights including the ancient Twyfelfontein rock engravings—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the towering Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain.

The tour concludes in Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Centered around a vast salt pan visible from space, Etosha supports an astonishing variety of game, including elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and large herds of springbok, zebra, and wildebeest. The park’s numerous waterholes provide excellent opportunities for close-up wildlife encounters, especially during the dry season when animals congregate in great numbers.

This Namibia safari offers a remarkable blend of awe-inspiring scenery, cultural encounters, and memorable wildlife sightings—ideal for travelers seeking a truly diverse African experience.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Namibia
	Parks	Etosha Namib-Naukluft

Fine details

Safari highlights

Beaches
Wildlife sanctuaries

What’s included?

Accommodation
Airport transfers
Meals
Park fees
Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

Alcoholic beverages
All drinks
Hot air balloons
Internal flights
International flights
Laundry
Premium alcoholic beverages
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert

Namib-Naukluft

Travel through the Khomas Highlands and descend into the Namib Desert via a scenic mountain pass. This 4–5 hour journey offers chances to spot wildlife such as Ostrich, Greater Kudu, and Sociable Weavers. Explore Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei, known for towering dunes and striking desert scenery. Highlights include Sesriem Canyon and encounters with desert-adapted wildlife like Oryx, Jackal, Springbok, and reptiles.

Namib Desert Lodge

Sossusvlei and Swakopmund

Namib-Naukluft

Begin the day with a morning excursion to Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei, home to Namibia’s iconic red dunes and striking desert landscapes. Highlights include Dune 45, Big Daddy, Hiddenvlei, and the haunting beauty of Dead Vlei with its ancient camelthorn trees. Visit Sesriem Canyon before continuing to Swakopmund through the Namib-Naukluft Park. The route crosses the Namib Sand Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fog-fed dunes and desert-adapted wildlife.

Swakopmund Sands

Swakopmund

After breakfast, set out on a Living Desert Experience to discover the hidden wildlife of the Namib with a local expert. Look for creatures like the Namib Sand Gecko, Namaqua Chameleon, Peringuey’s Adder, and desert-adapted birds and plants. Return to Swakopmund for lunch and time to explore or enjoy optional activities such as quad-biking or sandboarding. This coastal town offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and colonial charm.

Swakopmund Sands

Skeleton Coast and Damaraland

Travel north along the Skeleton Coast, a stark and hauntingly beautiful stretch known for shipwrecks and its treacherous maritime history. After photographing one of the wrecks, head inland toward the dramatic landscapes of Damaraland. Pass landmarks like the Brandberg and Spitzkoppe before exploring unique geological formations such as Burnt Mountain, the Organ Pipes, and the Petrified Forest. This region also supports desert-adapted wildlife like elephants, rhinos, and lions.

Twyfelfontein Country Lodge

Etosha National Park

Etosha

After an early breakfast, head northeast toward Etosha National Park, with a stop at Twyfelfontein—a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 2,000 ancient rock engravings, some dating back 6,000 years. Look for images of rhinos, elephants, and human footprints, along with the rare Welwitschia plant. Etosha, one of Africa’s top wildlife parks, spans over 22,300 km² and is famed for its vast salt pan, striking landscapes, and exceptional photography opportunities.

Etosha Safari Camp

Etosha National Park

Etosha

Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in Etosha, with a midday break at the lodge to relax and have lunch. Routes are chosen based on wildlife interests and guided by expert naturalists. Etosha hosts over 110 mammal species, including four of the Big Five, plus Cheetah, Giraffe, and rare desert-adapted species. Birdlife is equally impressive, with more than 350 species, including regional specialties and sought-after endemics.

Etosha Safari Camp

Etosha National Park

Etosha

Spend another full day exploring Etosha while gradually heading east for the final overnight stop. Beyond its rich wildlife, Etosha holds historical and scientific significance—established as a game reserve in 1907 and later as a national park in 1967. It attracts over 200,000 visitors annually and is also a site of major paleontological interest, with fossils near Halali camp dating back 650 million years.

Mushara Bush Camp

Etosha to Windhoek

Etosha

After an early game drive or relaxed breakfast, depart south on a 5–6 hour journey to Windhoek. Upon arrival, transfer to Hosea Kutako International Airport for departure or onward connections to destinations like the Caprivi, Victoria Falls, Botswana, Zambia, or South Africa. Accommodation in Windhoek can be arranged if an overnight stay is needed.

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