Classic 16 days Self Drive Namibia Safaris
Classic 16 days Namibia Self drive Safari explores Windhoek, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Damaraland (isolated regions), Kaokoland, Etosha West, Etosha South, Etosha East & Central Namibia.
This 16 day Namibia Self drive Safari from windhoek starts with Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert, featuring its vast sand sea, followed by the charming town of Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast, then to Damaraland – known for its intriguing rock formations, Bushman rock art, and desert-adapted wildlife. Thereafter, it heads to Kaokoland, the last frontier of true wilderness and home to the nomadic Himba people and ends with Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s premier game parks; and the Waterberg Plateau, a scenic refuge for Namibia’s rare and endangered species.
Summary of the trip
Day 1: Windhoek
Days 2 and 3: Sossusvlei
Days 4 and 5: Swakopmund
Day 6: Damaraland
Days 7 and 8: Damaraland (isolated regions)
Day 9: Kaokoland
Day 10: Etosha West Day
11 & 12: Etosha South
Day 13 & 14: Etosha East
Day 15: Central Namibia
Day 16: Windhoek (Departure)
Highlights of the Tour
- Explore the wonders of Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei, and the hidden treasures of the Namib Desert.
- Discover activities in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. The Skeleton Coast features rock engravings, unique geological formations, and desert-adapted elephants found in Damaraland.
- In the north, encounter the local Himba people and discover their intriguing customs.
- The expansive white pan of Etosha offers remarkable game viewing alongside in a converted safari vehicle featuring a pop-up roof.
- Cheetahs and big cats at the private Okonjima Reserve, or tracking white rhinos at Otjiwa.
A Detailed 16 days Self Drive Namibia Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Windhoek (One night)
Upon your arrival in Windhoek, your guide will greet you and hand over your 4×4 self drive car rental for your 16 days self drive Namibia tour package. Set off to discover the marvels of Namibia’s renowned attractions during the upcoming 16 days Namibia road trip. This marks the start of something new.
Upon your arrival, consider taking a city tour of Windhoek as you make your way from the airport. You can spend the rest of the day unwinding at your own pace. Suggest and secure a dinner reservation for yourself. There is a wide array of dining options available, ranging from local cuisines to more upscale establishments.
Days 2 and 3: Sossusvlei (2 nights)
Drive south from Windhoek to explore the Namib Desert and its magnificent Great Sand Sea. Make sure to arrive on time for a sundowner at your elegantly positioned lodge or on top of the nearby Elim Dune. The journey lasts approximately five to six hours, contingent upon the route you choose to take.
The journey showcases the shift from the Kalahari thornveld to the authentic expanse of the Namib desert. Embrace the picturesque landscapes and savor a delightful picnic lunch by the roadside. Numerous locations await that will leave you in awe.
Upon your arrival: Enter Sossusvlei at sunrise and be sure to bring ample film or memory, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and water. Discover the towering dunes of the world and the unique landscape of Dead Vlei, featuring its arid pan and ancient, petrified trees. Ascend the dunes and gaze out over an endless expanse of sand. Boundless and expansive. Embark on a nature walk with your guide to discover the diverse fauna and flora that thrive in this arid desert.
We recommend booking a hot air balloon safari. An experience that is truly enchanting.
Exquisite Lodging: Namib Outpost
Standard Accommodation: Desert Quiver Camp
Days 4 and 5: Swakopmund (2 nights)
Today, you journey from the vast, sun-baked sand dunes of the Namib Desert to the chilly embrace of the Atlantic Ocean along the Skeleton Coast. Discover the unique allure of the world’s sole coastal desert, where the dunes gracefully meet the ocean.
As you travel, the desert transforms from towering dunes and rugged mountains through the Gaub and Kuiseb Pass, where you can pause for a photo at the Tropic of Capricorn, eventually giving way to expansive plains as you approach the ocean. Observe the mist gradually emerging on the horizon. At that point, you realize you are nearing your destination. If you desire to witness the lunar landscape and the welwitschias, take a detour inland, or proceed to Walvis Bay to explore and enjoy lunch. Consider taking the back roads that wind through the coastal dune belt. Consider pausing at Dune 7 or continuing on to Swakopmund to check in before exploring the town for the rest of the day. Unsure about the path to choose? Your guide will provide an explanation of the options tailored to your preferences for activities and sights along the coast in the coming days.
When you arrive: There is plenty to explore, and based on your preferences and timing, you might even consider extending your stay in this unique town with its German heritage. This serves as the central hub of activity in Namibia. Experience the thrill of quad biking or sand boarding in the dunes. Enjoy a picturesque aerial journey. Embark on a dolphin boat cruise while savoring champagne and oysters as you glide across the seas. Explore the Little Five during an immersive desert tour. Stroll through the desert under the stars, and witness its vibrant awakening. Wander along the secluded coastline of Namib Naukluft Park to reach Sandwich Harbour. Remarkable.
Dive deeper into the activities.
Exquisite Lodging: Strand Hotel
Standard Accommodation: Swakopmund Luxury Suites
Day 6: Damaraland (1 night)
Departing from the refreshing climate of the coast, today you journey to Damaraland. The journey to reach the destination is an integral aspect of today’s experience. A picturesque journey no matter which path you choose. Explore the pristine allure of Namibia. The journey will be extended, with the drive estimated to last around six hours, potentially more if you choose to take frequent breaks along the route.
Proceed northward towards Henties Bay. Be on the lookout for the quaint settlement of Wlotskasbaken. Visit the Cape fur seal colony at Cape Cross. Next, return to Henties and proceed inland through Uis, a historic mining town. In the distance, the towering Brandberg Mountain. Even from a distance, its size is striking. If you wish to experience it up close, you must depart quite early and may have to forgo the seals. Proceed to your lodge in the Twyfelfontein region. Upon arrival, if time permits, take the opportunity to explore the highlights in the afternoon. Alternatively, if you arrive early, your guide can take you on a drive along the river to spot the desert-adapted elephants. An alternative route is to travel further north from Cape Cross, following the coastline up to Torra Bay before turning inland. This will necessitate an earlier start than usual. An opportunity to observe shipwrecks and appreciate the vastness of the barren coastline that stretches for miles.
During your visit: With just one night in this area, make sure to experience the highlights of Twyfelfontein, including the rock engravings, Burnt Mountain, and Organ Pipes as soon as you arrive. Relish your sundowner and dinner beneath Namibia’s magnificent sky.
Exquisite Lodging: Mowani Mountain Camp
Standard Accommodation: Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp
Days 7 and 8: Damaraland – secluded regions (2 nights)
This morning, you journey north across expansive plains and majestic mountain ranges toward Palmwag. The drive today is shorter, and depending on your pick-up time, you may still have the opportunity to explore the dry riverbeds of Damaraland in search of elephants before you depart. The lodge guide will meet you at the pick-up point (if you are staying at Desert Rhino Camp) and transport you to the lodge in his safari vehicle from there.
The journey to the lodge (Hoanib Valley Camp) is relatively short, yet the road is quite rugged, so the afternoon will be dedicated to a nature drive to reach the destination. An excellent opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes, along with the diverse wildlife. If you are staying at Palmwag Lodge, feel free to explore the Palmwag Concession at your leisure.
During your visit, a complete day is dedicated to exploring this remarkable region, featuring activities like a nature hike or game drive to appreciate the stunning yet rugged landscape. There might be an opportunity to observe rhinos or elephants.
At Hoanib Valley Camp, your stay is arranged on a fully inclusive basis, encompassing scheduled camp activities.
Exquisite Lodging Hoanib Valley Camp
Standard Accommodation Palmwag Lodge
Day 9: Kaokoland (1 night)
Today, you will journey to the northernmost point you will visit in Namibia on this itinerary. Return to your vehicle at Desert Rhino Camp and proceed with your guided safari. Today, you will be heading to Opuwo.
As you journey north, the road meanders through rugged rocky formations and expansive grassy plains characteristic of Damaraland, leading you to the secluded regions of Kaokoland. The drive is relatively short, allowing you to unwind upon arrival or venture out to explore some of the local Himba tribes this afternoon with your guide or a lodge guide.
When you arrive: Engage with Himba villagers and explore their intriguing traditions. Visit in the morning to observe the bustling routines of the villagers at their busiest. Visit in the afternoon to explore further and observe the activities that characterize a typical afternoon for these intriguing individuals.
Accommodation Options: Luxury & Standard Opuwo Country Hotel
Day 10: Etosha National Park – West (1 night)
Travel south back toward Damaraland, then head west toward Etosha National Park. The drive retraces the same path for the majority of the journey.
As you travel, keep an eye out for wildlife flanking the road, whether in Etosha on the park’s western side or within the private Hobatere Reserve.
When you arrive: Delight in an afternoon or evening game drive, indulge in birdwatching, and take in the beauty during scenic and photographic drives.
Exquisite Lodging: Safarihoek Lodge
Standard Accommodation: Hobatere Lodge
Days 11 and 12: Etosha National Park – South (2 nights)
Following breakfast, proceed south to your next lodge. Be on the lookout for the wildlife in Etosha, as the animals tend to be more cautious around vehicles in the western areas. The scenery is beautiful, and the vegetation here is unique. Make a stop at the hide at Olifantsrus.
During your visit: A complete day on this side of the park consists of game drives, game drives, and even more game drives. Both the wildlife and birdlife are truly phenomenal. Your guide is familiar with the finest waterholes and pathways. Allow him to reveal his favorite places to you.
Exquisite Lodging Ongava Lodge
Standard Accommodation at Etosha Village
Days 13 and 14: Etosha National Park – East (2 nights)
Embark on a game drive heading east to your next lodge.
During your journey, feel free to pause whenever you wish and for any duration you desire. As you journey through the park to your lodge on the eastern side of Etosha Park, you will encounter numerous waterholes along the way. Stay alert.
While you’re there: Enjoy another entire day discovering the park on the eastern side. The landscape presents a unique charm, equally captivating in its own right. Visit the waterholes and enjoy your time there. Observe and be patient. Allow the wildlife to approach as they seek out water, or venture into the bush along one of the many paths that lead you deeper into their habitat.Find the best routes by communicating with the local rangers for any updates on recent sightings.
Exquisite Lodging Onguma The Fort
Standard Accommodation at Mushara Bush Camp
Day 15: Central Namibia (1 night)
The journey to the Waterberg region in Central Namibia will require approximately four hours.
On the way: Explore the world’s largest meteorite, the Hobe Meteorite; enjoy a picnic lunch at Lake Otjikoto or Lake Guinas. Leave early and, if time permits, enjoy a hike in the Waterberg region. The goal, however, is to arrive at your lodge by lunchtime, allowing you to fully enjoy your one-night stay at the Okonjima Reserve or at Namibia’s oldest game farm.
While visiting, the Waterberg Plateau Park offers a variety of outstanding hiking trails, where the wildlife, birdlife, and stunning scenery contribute to an enjoyable hiking experience. Experience the activities on the private reserve or game farm alongside a lodge guide. Embark on a scenic drive through nature or explore the wilderness on foot. It is a unique experience.
*Your stay at Okonjima includes 2 scheduled camp activities. Upon your arrival, engage in a discussion regarding your activity schedule with the lodge.
Opulent Lodging Okonjima Opulent Bush Camp
Standard Accommodation Otjiwa Safari Lodge
Day 16: Windhoek
Departure / Conclusion of Tour
The journey to Windhoek Airport for your return flight is brief and pleasant on paved roads. The journey is expected to last around three to four hours, allowing you the opportunity for an early wildlife activity and a relaxed breakfast.
While traveling, make sure to stop in Okahandja to purchase wooden crafts from the market.
Arriving at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure is essential, making an afternoon or late evening flight the most suitable option. Say goodbye to your guide. The past 16 days have truly been an incredible adventure.
provides Lodging Dining (information available upon request)
Automobile and all associated expenses, including fuel
Expert guidance and all associated costs
Always have drinking water in the vehicle.
All activities as specified and as feasible with the NTS guide and vehicle.
Fees for entering the park
Welcome and Introduction Transportation from the airport
Round-the-clock support within the country
A thorough travel diary featuring an extensive itinerary, maps, route descriptions, booking vouchers, contact numbers, and helpful information.
omits
Flights that cross international borders
Individual travel insurance
Visa processes and applications
Employee tips