Namibia Self Drive
Windhoek - Sossusvlei - Swakopmund - Damaraland - Ongava Game Reserve
Overview
The popularity of Namibia as a destination has soared over the last few years, with travellers keen to experience the stunning desert landscape, the towering sand dunes around Sossusvlei and a chance to see the rare desert habituated animals of the game reserves in the North of the country.
This is a self drive itinerary as this is the best way to see large swathes of the country, starting in the capital Windhoek, before heading to the dunes of Sossusvlei, the coastal town of Swakopmund and the barren but beautiful Damaraland.
You will finish up in the Ongava Game Reserve, bordering the Etosha National Park, where you will have the opportunity to view desert habituated Elephant and Rhino who live in the reserve, as well as some of the rarer desert animals not seen in much of the rest of Africa.
| Destination | Accommodation | Nights | Basis | Room Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sossusvlei | Sossusvlei Desert Lodge | 2 | FI | Cottage |
| Swakopmund | The Hansa Hotel | 2 | B&B | Standard |
| Damaraland | Damaraland Camp | 2 | FI | Suite |
| Ongava Game Reserve | Little Ongava | 3 | FI | Suite |
*FI = Fully Inclusive | B&B = Bed & Breakfast
Day 1
Windhoek, the capital of Namibia is the ideal starting point for your tour of Namibia. The city is a mixture of contemporary style and colonial German architecture, making for an interesting place to wander around on your first day. There are some excellent places to eat in the evening and your hotel will be able to arrange a table for you.
Day 2
We would recommend an early start this morning so you can make the 4 ½ hour drive down to Sossusvlei in good time to enjoy the majority of the day here. You will be spending the next 2 nights as Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, which is ideally located for exploring this stunning area. You should arrive in time for lunch and then some time to relax before your afternoon activity.
Overnight at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
The lodge is located in the northern section of the NamibRand Nature Reserve and, as it is on privately owned terrain, access to the area surrounding the lodge is exclusive to guests. The spacious stone and thatch cottages command stunning views across the Namib plains. With their own private verandas, split level living areas and large bathrooms, they are the ultimate option for luxury accommodation in the desert. Star viewing windows above the bed are another lovely feature.
Day 3
Today is a full day for you to enjoy the activities on offer from the lodge. An excursion to the dunes at Sossusvlei is a must when staying here and you can also explore the area by quad bike. For those looking for something a little more sedate, the area surrounding the lodge can be explored on foot without a guide. There is also a resident astronomer at the lodge, meaning the evening can be spent learning about the stars and constellations that are so prominent in the desert environment.
Overnight at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Fully Inclusive basis
Day 4
Another early start will be required this morning as you drive North to Swakopmund (about 5 hours) where you will be spending the next 2 nights. After checking in to the Hansa Hotel you will have the rest of today at leisure to relax after your long drive.
Overnight at The Hansa Hotel, Bed & Breakfast
Set in the very heart of Swakopmund, the Hansa Hotel oozes charm and is the perfect base for your short stay in the town. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, with large bathrooms and excellent amenities. You will be guaranteed a warm welcome when arriving here and attentive service from the staff throughout your stay.
Day 5
Today will be a chance for you to explore Swakopmund and the surrounding area.
Overnight at The Hansa Hotel, Bed & Breakfast
Day 6
This morning you will depart Swakopmund for the 4 ½ hour drive up to Damaraland where you will be staying at Damaraland Camp for the next 2 nights. The afternoon will be a chance for you to rest after the drive up before heading out for an evening game drive.
Overnight at Damaraland Camp, Fully Inclusive basis
Set in the Huab River Valley, Damaraland Camp’s location gives guests stunning views of the stark plains, ancient valleys and mountainous backdrops of the region. The suites are all very spacious, raised off the ground with their own private verandas where guests can relax and enjoy the views. The main lodge has a large lounge are and swimming pool, as well as an open air “Boma” where guests can enjoy dinner under the stars.
Day 7
Today will be a chance for you to enjoy some of the varied activities on offer from Damaraland Camp. As well as morning and evening nature drives, you will be able to enjoy guided walks, cultural excursions and birding tours. Of course there will be plenty of time to relax and enjoy the stunning views from your private deck or the pool at the lodge.
Overnight at Damaraland Camp, Fully Inclusive basis
Day 8
Today you will be driving up to the Ongava Game Reserve, on the edge of the Etosha National Park, where you will be spending 3 nights at Little Ongava. The drive is around 4 hours so you should arrive in good time for lunch and some time to relax. You will then be able to enjoy an evening game drive before heading back to the lodge for dinner.
Overnight at Little Ongava, Fully Inclusive basis
Perched on the crest of a hill with stunning views of the plains, Little Ongava is a stunning location for a stay in the area. With just 3 spacious suites, guests are assured of a private, intimate experience, with warm, friendly service from the camp staff. Suites have their own outdoor showers, private plunge pools and dining areas, meaning you can retreat to your room in between activities and enjoy your privacy. Dining tends to occur under the stars, with delicious meals served in a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 9
A full day staying at Little Ongava will allow you to enjoy a variety of activities. Morning and evening game drives are on offer, as are guided walks and birding excursions, including spending sometime in one of the dedicated hides. There is also the opportunity for you to go Rhino tracking with one of the dedicated guides – a truly unique opportunity and one that makes a visit to Ongava truly special.
Overnight at Little Ongava, Fully Inclusive basis
Day 10
Another full day enjoying the activities on offer at Little Ongava. Of course this will include some time to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings of your suite or the main lodge.
Overnight at Little Ongava, Fully Inclusive basis
Day 11
After your morning activity you will have breakfast before leaving the lodge and making the drive down to Windhoek for your onward flight. This journey is around 6 hours son please leave in plenty of time to get to the airport for your flight!