Black rhino, oryx and springboks at Nebrownii waterhole in Etosha national park, Namibia
Caption: Black rhino, oryx and springboks at Nebrownii waterhole in Etosha national park, Namibia
Caption: Native Himba people - Namibia
Caption: Large family of African elephants at Moringa waterhole - Etosha National Park, Namibia
Caption: Oryx and dunes - Sossusvlei - Namibia
Caption: Dead Vlei

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Journey Snapshot

Activity level: Level 1 Involves some moderate physical activity over short periods of time, such as short walks, on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain.
Destination: Namibia Luxury Safari
Duration: 12 days, 11 nights
Flight information: Arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport [WDH] on Day 1 and depart on Day 12
Pickup location: Hosea Kutako International Airport [WDH]

Overview

Choose your own departure date for your group

A fully-guided big game Safari through Namibia’s National Parks - the ideal destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable African experience in this uniquely beautiful, untamed wilderness.

Namibia is internationally acclaimed for its approach to conservation - protection of the environment is written into the constitution. You will come to properly appreciate this extraordinary country as you explore the remarkable natural landscapes Namibia has to offer. The vast Etosha National Park is abundant with wildlife; lions, desert-adapted elephants and the Hartmann's Mountain Zebra to name a few. The hauntingly beautiful Namib Desert stretches over 2,000km along the magnificent Atlantic Coast. Experience the contrasts of this ancient country for yourself, visiting the silence and solitude of the Sossovlei sand dunes and the teeming birdlife of Walvis Bay Lagoon.

Visitors on this tour also explore Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek and discover the lovely Swakopmund, a coastal town which retains some beautiful examples of German influence in its architecture, culture and cuisine.

Transport in modified vehicles with pop-top roof and large opening windows allow for the best views of wildlife. Luxury camping style.

Itinerary

Itinerary summary: DAY 1 - Welcome to Namibia
DAY 2 - Windhoek to Sossusvlei / Namib Desert
DAY 3 - Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei & Sesriem Canyon
DAY 4 - Swakopmund to Walvis Bay
DAY 5 - Swakopmund to Walvis Bay
DAY 6 - Skeleton Coast & Damaraland
DAY 7 - Damaraland
DAY 8 - Damaraland
DAY 9 - Damaraland to Southern Boundary of Etosha National Park
DAY 10 - Etosha National Park
DAY 11 - Etosha National Park to Windhoek
DAY 12 - Farewell to Namibia
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Full Itinerary

DAY 1 - Welcome to Namibia

On arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, you will be met by our local agent and transferred to the hotel in Windhoek for this evening. You will meet your Tour Director and the rest of your tour group at a Welcome Dinner together this evening. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy some free time after check-in to explore Windhoek a short distance from the hotel, experiencing the city’s colonial legacy that is reflected in its many German eateries and shops, and the widespread use of the German language. Windhoek has an interesting mix of historical architecture and modern buildings.

Galton House: Galton House is named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Galton. It has a relaxed but efficient style which creates a very welcoming atmosphere. A mere ten-minute drive from the center of town and perched on the edge of Windhoek’s northernmost affluent suburb of Eros, guests staying here will be ensured of peace and tranquility. The nine guest rooms are all equipped with internet connectivity and satellite television, with a coffee/tea station available on request and other general guest amenities. The communal areas consist of a large lounge, dining room, swimming pool and garden. There is also delightful ‘al fresco’ dining area by the pool, serving freshly prepared and very tasty meals. There are also a number of shops, restaurants and supermarkets within easy striking distance.

Included meals: Welcome Dinner 

DAY 2 - Windhoek to Sossusvlei / Namib Desert

This morning your personal Ultimate Safaris guide/s will collect you from Galton House after breakfast. You then depart Windhoek in your safari vehicle and drive southwest through the scenic Khomas Hochland highlands before heading down the Great Escarpment into the Namib Desert below, stopping for a picnic lunch at a scenic location along the way. You arrive at Namib Desert Lodge in the midafternoon where you will stay for two nights whilst you explore the remarkable sights of the Namib Desert with your guide/s. If desired, your guide/s can take you on a scenic sundowner drive in the nearby area, however if you prefer, you can just relax and soak in the scenic and tranquil surroundings at the lodge.

Namib Desert Lodge: Namib Desert Lodge sits at the foot of red sandstone cliffs, the ‘fossilized’ dunes of the protomorphic Namib. Situated just 60km north of Sesriem, the gateway to famous Sossusvlei, the lodge is an ideal starting point for an excursion to the highest dunes in the world.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

DAY 3 - Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei & Sesriem Canyon

Rise early this morning for a magical excursion in the Namib Naukluft National Park, setting off from the lodge before sunrise. Dead Vlei is an ancient clay pan that was once an oasis, studded with acacias and fed by a river. When that river suddenly changed course, the earth was left to dry up along with the trees it previously supported. So dry were the climatic conditions that these trees never decomposed – instead they were entirely leached of moisture. Today, 900 years later, they remain as desiccated, blackened sentinels dotting the pan’s cracked surface. Surrounded by the red-pink dunes of the Namibia Desert, they create a surreal spectacle that is a wildlife spotter's dream.
Afterwards we head to Sesriem Canyon, a deep chasm carved through the rocks by water. This striking natural feature is best explored on foot. Stony walls rise up sharply on both sides of the canyon, while birds roost in its crags and lizards dart along the ledges. The canyon’s name was coined when early settlers used it as a water source, using six lengths of leather (‘ses riem' – six thongs) tied together to lower buckets into the water at the base of canyon.

Once we've explored to your heart’s content we'll enjoy a relaxing picnic breakfast under the shade of a camel thorn tree. We return to Namib Desert Lodge in the early afternoon for a late lunch. The rest of the afternoon will be at your leisure (from experience, this is usually welcomed after an exhilarating morning in the dunes) or you can opt to head out again later in the afternoon for stunning sunset landscape photography opportunities.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Namib Desert Lodge  

DAY 4 - Swakopmund to Walvis Bay

This morning we will return to Walvis Bay for a Catamaran Boat Cruise in the waters of the Walvis Bay Harbour while enjoying fresh oysters, sparkling wine and other delicious snacks on board. We depart from the Walvis Bay Yacht Club and cruise into the beautiful and sheltered bay area, which holds more splendour than can at first be seen – a shipwreck, lighthouse, oyster platforms, different bird species, seals and an abundance of marine life are just some of the attractions.

The Catamaran will move alongside oyster platforms where your guide will share more information with you about Walvis Bay’s own cultivated oysters, delicacies which you will later get to taste. The journey proceeds to the ever-growing Pelican Point to achieve a closer look at the lighthouse and resident seal colony. The old supply railway spoors can still be seen from the years when the lighthouse was occupied by the coast guards. Moving around the point, three different types of dolphins may be encountered, namely the Heaviside/Benguela Dolphins which are the most notable as they are endemic to the coast of Namibia, Dusky Dolphins and Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins. Sightings of the Mola Mola (Sunfish) and the Leatherback Turtles also keep you on the lookout. All this can be experienced whilst comfortably relaxing in the saloon, on the trampolines, or on deck, and enjoying a glass of sparkling wine and delicious snacks.

We return to Swakopmund in the late afternoon in time to freshen up for dinner in town with your guide.

Swakopmund Guesthouse: Situated close to the town center and a mere five-minute walk from the beach and main shopping area, Swakopmund Guesthouse is privately owned and run by the Borg family who previously used the property as their holiday house. It has been completely revamped to offer welcoming accommodation in standard and luxury rooms and provides an ideal base for guests wanting to indulge in a comfortable stay close to the ocean and Swakopmund’s many attractions. The spacious en-suite rooms are fitted with minibar, television and crisp, white linen sheets; and decorated with peaceful elements of the ocean. Additional facilities include a breakfast lounge where a tasty breakfast buffet is served, reception, garden courtyard and laundry service. Swakopmund Guesthouse is run with an eco-friendly approach, making use of solar energy and recycled water.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Swakopmund Guesthouse  

DAY 5 - Swakopmund to Walvis Bay

This morning we will return to Walvis Bay for a Catamaran Boat Cruise in the waters of the Walvis Bay Harbour while enjoying fresh oysters, sparkling wine and other delicious snacks on board. We depart from the Walvis Bay Yacht Club and cruise into the beautiful and sheltered bay area, which holds more splendour than can at first be seen – a shipwreck, lighthouse, oyster platforms, different bird species, seals and an abundance of marine life are just some of the attractions.

The Catamaran will move alongside oyster platforms where your guide will share more information with you about Walvis Bay’s own cultivated oysters, delicacies which you will later get to taste. The journey proceeds to the ever-growing Pelican Point to achieve a closer look at the lighthouse and resident seal colony. The old supply railway spoors can still be seen from the years when the lighthouse was occupied by the coast guards. Moving around the point, three different types of dolphins may be encountered, namely the Heaviside/Benguela Dolphins which are the most notable as they are endemic to the coast of Namibia, Dusky Dolphins and Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins. Sightings of the Mola Mola (Sunfish) and the Leatherback Turtles also keep you on the lookout. All this can be experienced whilst comfortably relaxing in the saloon, on the trampolines, or on deck, and enjoying a glass of sparkling wine and delicious snacks.

We return to Swakopmund in the late afternoon in time to freshen up for dinner in town with your guide.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Swakopmund Guesthouse  

DAY 6 - Skeleton Coast & Damaraland

Today’s journey takes you north along the coastline, stopping over at the haunting remains of the Zeila Shipwreck before heading inland towards the scenic countryside of Damaraland to reach Twyfelfontein Country Lodge. The afternoon may either be spent at leisure or exploring the intriguing rock engravings of Twyfelfontein (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) before returning to the camp for a sundowner drink.

Damaraland is typified by displays of colour, magnificent table topped mountains, rock formations and bizarre-looking vegetation. The present-day landscape has been formed by the erosion of wind, water and geological forces which have formed rolling hills, dunes, gravel plains and ancient river terraces. It is the variety and loneliness of the area as well as the scenic splendour which will reward and astound you, giving one an authentic understanding of the word 'wilderness'.

Twyfelfontein Country Lodge: Twyfelfontein Country Lodge lies in the heart of Damaraland, ideally located a short drive from the local attractions in the area. The Lodge is spread along the base of an impressive sandstone mountain, a short distance from the ephemeral Aba Huab riverbed where desert adapted elephants often traverse. Guests are accommodated in comfortable thatched en-suite rooms. The expansive main area of the lodge boasts an open dining room, bar, reception, curio shop and swimming pool.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

DAY 7 - Damaraland

Today is dedicated to exploring this remarkable and fascinating area with your local guide. After an early breakfast you will be treated to a memorable 4x4 excursion along the ephemeral Aba Huab River valleys to explore this remarkable region and to search for game, including the elusive desert adapted elephants if they are in the area. Damaraland is home to a variety of desert adapted wildlife and hidden desert treasures. As the elephants are mostly active in the mornings you will normally have the best chance to see them then before returning to camp for lunch.

The rest of the afternoon is at leisure, with the option to explore the area further with your guide or visiting Twyfelfontein if you did not do so yesterday. You can also opt to visit the Damara Living Museum to experience this remarkable culture and their traditions. (there is a small entry fee payable locally only.)

This evening you can enjoy some pre-dinner drinks whilst admiring the stunning views of your surroundings at sunset.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Twyfelfontein Country Lodge  

DAY 8 - Damaraland

Today is dedicated to exploring this remarkable and fascinating area with your local guide. After an early breakfast you will be treated to a memorable 4x4 excursion along the ephemeral Aba Huab River valleys to explore this remarkable region and to search for game, including the elusive desert adapted elephants if they are in the area. Damaraland is home to a variety of desert adapted wildlife and hidden desert treasures. As the elephants are mostly active in the mornings you will normally have the best chance to see them then before returning to camp for lunch.

The rest of the afternoon is at leisure, with the option to explore the area further with your guide or visiting Twyfelfontein if you did not do so yesterday. You can also opt to visit the Damara Living Museum to experience this remarkable culture and their traditions. (there is a small entry fee payable locally only.)

This evening you can enjoy some pre-dinner drinks whilst admiring the stunning views of your surroundings at sunset.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner  
Accommodation: Twyfelfontein Country Lodge  

DAY 9 - Damaraland to Southern Boundary of Etosha National Park

Leave behind the beauty of Damaraland and head east towards the sprawling bushveld of the Etosha National Park, a highlight of the trip for many. Etosha National Park has vast open plains scattered with semi-arid savannah grasslands, watering holes and secluded bush camps. The impressive 5,000-square-kilometre Etosha salt pan makes up a large area of the eastern side of the park - it is even visible from space! This remote area teems with abundant wildlife such as lions, elephants, black rhinos and giraffes, as well as a variety of birdlife featuring flamingos, ostriches, eagles, hornbills, and owls.

We will arrive at Etosha Safari Camp located just outside the park in time for lunch and a short siesta before heading off on a sundowner drive in the park, exiting again just before sunset to freshen up for dinner.

Etosha Safari Camp: Etosha Safari Camp is situated only 10km from Etosha National Park and just a few minutes’ drive to Andersson Gate (Okaukuejo). The 22 uniquely designed en-suite Safari Bungalows offer a warm and creative African ambience. Each tented bungalow is decorated with artistically painted floors all the metal and ceramic furniture is created by local Namibian craftsmen. The inventive and rustic design also continues through to the spacious en-suite bathroom. Guests can enjoy the inviting veranda stretched across the length of each bungalow, while relaxing in the midst of dense Mopane and Commiphora vegetation boasting an abundant bird life. Each room is equipped with a spacious mosquito net and gauzed windows provide optimal protection and air circulation. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in a rustic and tastefully decorated farm-style restaurant at the foot of the hill. Guests can relax in the swimming pool, make use of the handy internet café or enjoy the walking trails.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

DAY 10 - Etosha National Park

Today is dedicated to game drives in the Etosha National Park to explore the eastern and central parts. Spend time travelling along the roads and visiting the many waterholes including the beautiful Fischer’s Pan area. If all guests agree, you can either opt for a full day in the park with lunch at any of the rest camps or return to Mushara Lodge for lunch and a short siesta before returning to the park in the afternoon, departing again just before sunset in time to freshen up for dinner. Cameras at the ready for another exceptional day!

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Mushara Lodge 

DAY 11 - Etosha National Park to Windhoek

This morning you depart early and drive south towards the capital city of Windhoek, stopping en route at the world famous AfriCat Foundation just south of the town of Otjiwarongo. Here you will be taken on a tour of its facilities where the guide will discuss the origins and visions of this conservation project. Afterwards you will be able to enter one of the large enclosures with your local guide to view some of the ambassador cheetahs that reside here. Enjoy a lunch before continuing on your journey. The rest of the afternoon will be at leisure with this evening being a farewell dinner to reminisce about good memories and trip highlights.

AfriCat Foundation: Okonjima is home to the AfriCat Foundation, a wildlife sanctuary founded in 1991 that is dedicated to creating conservation awareness, preserving habitat, promoting environmental educational research and supporting animal welfare. Their main focus is Africa's big cats, especially injured or captured leopard and cheetah. AfriCat runs the largest cheetah and leopard rescue and release programme in the world. In the last 17 years over 1 000 of these predators have been rescued with over 85% being released back into the wild.

Included meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner 
Accommodation: Galton House, Windhoek 

DAY 12 - Farewell to Namibia

This morning can be spent relaxing at your guesthouse, exploring Windhoek, visiting NamCrafts and the Craft Centre, or doing some last-minute souvenir shopping if time allows, before being collected from your guesthouse for your transfer out to the Windhoek International Airport, getting you there in time to check in for your ongoing flight.

Included meals: Breakfast 

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More information

What's includedWhat's not includedImportant information

What's included

  • ATOL Protection
  • For UK guests, return economy flights to/from LHR are included in the cost of the journey. For US/International guests, international flights are not included - please arrange your own international flights. Regional UK airport departures may be available - please ask at the time of booking. Supplements may apply.
  • Meet & Greet at Hosea Kutako International Airport Airport 
  • Meals, accommodation and transportation as specified in the itinerary
  • Park entrance fees
  • Professional local guide
  • Safari transport in specially adapted vehicles
  • Porterage
  • BJC Tour Director (subject to minimum numbers being reached)

What's not included

  • Visas, airport taxes, travel or medical insurance
  • Any personal items and anything not mentioned under included in price above
  • Any food not detailed in the itinerary
  • Drinks
  • Entrance fees to non-stipulated attractions
  • Any optional activities offered
  • Gratuities
  • Any COVID tests or related entry & exit requirements

Important information

  • Vaccinations are recommended for Namibia. Please consult your doctor for advice.
  • British Passport holders do not usually need visas for stays up to 90 days in Namibia. Please check current entry requirements.
  • Please let The Big Journey Company know prior to travelling if you have any medical needs or take any medication that we need to be made aware of to ensure that you have a safe and pleasant tour.
  • Check in is after 2-3pm and check out is before 10:00am unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
  • Cancellation 90 – 0 days prior to departure cancellation fee is 100%. It is your responsibility to ensure the correct travel insurance in place to protect you against the need to cancel your holiday. Deposits are non-refundable.
  • Further terms and conditions apply and will be provided upon request or at the time of booking. The Big Journey Company reserves the right to withdraw any offer prior to accepting a reservation request. This does not affect your statutory rights. This offer is subject to availability and space is limited.

The big journey promise

The big journey company was set up with one goal in mind, to share our passion for inspirational cultures, destinations and experiences. Over the last 10 years we have had the privilege to escort thousands of travellers on awe inspiring and sometimes life changing journeys. Our promise to every guest who joins us is that we will do everything possible to make sure your journey not only exceeds expectations but delivers at least one moment of true amazement.

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Holiday tours are operated by The Big Journey Company Limited. Registered in England. Registered office: Marron Bank, Branthwaite, Cumbria, CA14 4SZ. Registered number: 6532140. The Big Journey Company Limited is a member of The Travel Trust Association member number U5675 and holds an Air Travel Organiser’s License number T7282.

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