16 Day Northern Adventure
The itinerary starts with a drive to Spitzkoppe, there are a number of short walking trails. Continuing towards Twyfelfontein and Damaraland, you have another opportunity to search for the elusive desert-adapted elephant, great fun when self-driving.
Available in Guided & Self-Drive Tours
Then the drive west is to the area known as Kaokoland. Although this region shares a border with Owamboland, the atmosphere and landscape couldn’t be more different. This is one of the sparsest populated areas in the world as the local inhabitants are the nomadic Himba people.The true wilderness adventure continues with the opportunity to go canoeing on the Kunene River. It is now time to head south.
Continuing north of Etosha is Owamboland. This area is seldom visited by tourists but is one of the more fascinating areas of Namibia – as this is where the majority of the countries population lives. Wander around markets, visit local cuca shops and learn how the majority of the inhabitants live from subsistence farming on communal farming land, where there is no individual ownership or formal boundaries.
Heading towards Rundu and the Tsumkwe Bushmanland where you are exposed to one of Namibia’s oldest tribes.
Tour Plan
The next day you will drive to Etosha National Park, one of southern Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. About 20% of the park is an enormous mineral pan, commonly known as the ‘Great White Place’. Whilst the pan often fills with water in the rainy season attracting flamingoes and other wading birds, the series of waterholes along the southern edge of the pan entices large concentrations of wildlife in the colder, winter months. With 3 leisurely nights set aside to game view at flood-lit waterholes, close-up observations and photographic opportunities of animal interaction are plentiful.
This safari is offered in standard accommodation and camping versions. If you prefer luxury accommodation please inquire.
Included
* Accommodation / Campsite and activities as set out in itinerary
* Car rental as indicated
* Meals as stated in itinerary
* VAT: Tourism levy
* Welcome Pack
Excluded
* International and other flights;
* Visas
* Fuel
* Additional meals and optional activities;
* Personal insurance; tips/gratuities;
* Items of a personal nature;
* Entry fees to parks and places of interest;
* Extras for car hire as indicated below
Standard Inclusions for car rental- these might vary depending on the car rental - All vehicles on zero excess
* Kilometres
* Premium cover
* Contract fee
* Tyre & glass damage
* Airport transfers
* 1-2 spare tyres
* Unlimited additional drivers
Standard exclusions for car rental- these might vary depending on the car rental - All vehicles on zero excess
One-way drop-off fees
Additional equipment
Fines & fine handling fee
Lost key call-out fee
Fuel
From 2019 proposed park entry fees: N$250/person/day; N$100/child under 16 years and N$50/vehicle day – subject to change – please note that visitors must be in rest camps or outside the park – gates open/close at sunrise/sunset
Extra for Camping vehicle inclusions for car rental- these might vary depending on the car rental - All vehicles on zero excess
* Standard Camping Equipment (2-4 pax)
* Rooftop Tent OR Ground Tent
Please inquire for the details list of camping equipment.
Day 1: Destination: Windhoek
Situated in Central Namibia, the cosmopolitan city of Windhoek serves as the capital of the country. It is home to an international airport and a plethora of restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and accommodation options. The city is clean, safe and well-organised, with a 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, many of which are worth a look, including the Alte Feste an old fort, the 1896 Christuskirche Christ Church, and the more contemporary Supreme Court.
Accommodation: Town Lodge Windhoek
Description
The hotel is located in The Steps Development which is situated in Frankie Fredericks Street in the Kleine Kuppe area of Windhoek. Situated in Grove Street next to the Lady Pohamba Hospital and adjacent to the Grove Mall, it comprises 147 stylish bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms featuring maxi showers. The hotel is within easy access of Windhoek’s international and domestic airports, as well as the CBD and entertainment facilities. Town Lodge Windhoek provides free and secure basement parking as well as a swimming pool and fast, reliable wireless internet. Interleading family rooms are available and one in 50 rooms has been specially designed to cater for the needs of physically disabled guests. Full English and continental breakfast options and a sun downer bar service make this hotel the perfect place to start and end each day of your stay in Windhoek.
Your Stay
1 Night Bed and Breakfast
Day Notes
Day 2: Destination: Spitzkoppe
Situated in Namibia’s desolate, awe-inspiring Namib Desert, between Usakos and Swakopmund and about two hours’ drive from Swakopmund, the Spitzkoppe are a group of bald granite peaks forming one of Namibia’s most recognizable and dramatic landmarks. These enormous towering domes are a mecca for hikers and mountaineers, from beginners interested in guided historic walks to professional climbers seeking an adrenaline boost. Numerous ancient rock paintings can be visited as part of a guided walking tour. The extreme, barren landscapes and striking rock formations create an excellent setting for photography.
Accommodation: Spitzkoppen Lodge
Description
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
En-Suite, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Wheelchair Friendly
Experiences: SPITZKOPPEN LODGE
Day Notes
Day 3: Destination: Twyfelfontein
Set in the Kunene Region of northwestern Namibia, Twyfelfontein is a spectacularly scenic area, featuring one of the largest and most important concentrations of rock art in Africa. The name ‘Twyfelfontein’ translates to ‘Fountain of Doubt’, which refers to the perennial spring situated in the impressive Huab Valley flanked by the slopes of a sandstone table mountain. It was this spring that attracted Stone Age hunters over six thousand years ago, and it was during this time that the extensive group of rock engravings and paintings were produced. Visitors can look forward to basing themselves at some wonderfully shady campsites along the Aba-Huab riverbed, while exploring over thirty different sacred ritual sites of the traditional hunter-gatherer communities.
Accommodation: Twyfelfontein Country Lodge
Description
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Facilities, Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Verandah
Experiences: TWYFELFONTEIN COUNTRY LODGE
Damara Living Museum
Observe and experience the traditional Damara way of life right in the heart of their traditional homelands. A unique opportunity to see a way of life that is slowly dying out. Open daily.
Twyfelfontein Rock Art
Twyfelfontein is a World Heritage Site boasting one of the richest rock art concentrations in Africa. Thousands of tourists come to this site each year to view some 2, 500 Stone Age rock engravings. The area is home to 17 rock art sites, which collectively encompass 212 engraved stone slabs. There are an additional 13 sites displaying rock paintings
Petrified Forest
The Petrified Forest, located in the Kunene Region, showcases 280-million-year-old petrified trees from the Permian period. This remarkable site offers guided tours along a marked trail to view the stone-encased trees while interpretive signs explain its geological history. Visitors must preserve this national monument, making it a unique destination for those interested in Earth’s ancient history and geology. Its arid desert location near Damaraland also provides opportunities for wildlife sightings, including desert-adapted elephants and oryx.
Day Notes
Day 4: Destination: Opuwo
Opuwo, meaning ‘the end’ in Herero, lies in the north western Kunene region of Namibia. It serves as the capital of the region and is known as the gateway to the magnificent Epupa Falls. The surrounding landscape is characterised by low-lying hills, and vast dry desert plains inhabited by a wealth of desert-adapted wildlife. It serves as the central hub for the Himba culture. The town provides a perfect base for visitors wishing to explore the Kaokoland area and visit the local villages of the itinerant Himba people. The town and the Opuwo surrounding area is known as one of the cultural highlights of a trip to Namibia as it features an incredibly rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss an opportunity to learn about the fascinating Himba community within this starkly beautiful landscape.
Accommodation: Opuwo Country Lodge
Description
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Conference Centre, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah Meet the Himba people of Kaokoland with our guide / interpreter on an excursion to a traditional Himba village. Interact and photograph one of the last remaining nomadic tribes of Africa. You will have time to ask questions while your guide answers and explains the Himba`s intricate traditions, customs and beliefs. – Morning departure is at: 8h00. – Afternoon departure is at: 14h00 during summer and winter. – Mineral water is included. – Duration is approximately 3 – 4hrs. – Private Himba excursions have to be booked in advance to ensure vehicles and guide availability. Epupa Falls Excursion (The road might become inaccessible during parts of the rainy season between Dec to April) This is a full day excursion, which departs at 08h00 from the lodge after breakfast. The excursion is conducted in a 4×4 vehicle. Driving time is approximately three hour to reach Chief Kapika’s village. After visiting the village you will continue for another 35 km to Epupa Falls where you will enjoy your picnic lunch packs on the bank of the Kunene River while marvelling at the white water rushing over the Falls. Return to the lodge just before sunsets. – The activity includes bottled water and picnic lunch packs. – Not included – are extra soft or alcoholic drinks. Please request the lodge to pack extra if you wish to have a larger choice. – Minimum number of guests per tour are 4 x full paying adults. – Maximum number of guests per tour per day are 6 per vehicle. Baobab Tree – Africa’s Tree of Life This succulent absorbs and stores water during the rainy season to be able to produce a nutrient-dense fruit in dry seasons. This mystical tree, believed to predate even mankind, is a symbol of life, hope and positivity during tough times, as it proves that it can withstand any harsh seasons while baring flowers and fruits. They live up to around 3000 years, grow tall up to 25m and can have an impressive circumference stretching up to 40m. – Est. 3 to 4 hours trip – Mornings & Afternoons – Guided & Self drive options – Mineral Water included Pick-up at Opuwo run way at +/- 11h00 by Lodge transfer. Arrive at Opuwo Country Lodge for a welcome drink and toilet stop. Depending on your time of arrival, lunch can be served before or after the Himba village excursion, which normally takes +/- 1 to 2 hours. The lodge will provide the pilot with a complimentary day room whilst clients are on the excursion, alternatively he/she may join the excursion at no extra charge. Transfer back to the Opuwo airstrip between 14h30 and 15h00 for your return flight. – Light lunch is included in the price – Duration of Himba drive will depend on your time of arrival. Departure time should not be later than 15h00. Late arrival will result in a shorter excursion. – The excursion is based on a minimum of 2 guests per excursion.
Day 6: Destination: Ovamboland
Encompassing northern Namibia and southern Angola, Ovamboland lies north of the great Etosha Pan. Ovamboland is very different from the rest of Namibia with an environment which allows for crop farming and therefore is home to a significantly higher population, with more than half of the country’s population settled in this unique part of the country. The landscape is mostly flat and dotted with small settlements, and after extensive rain, Owamboland is covered with large pans. Oshakati is the largest town in the region and to the south, magnificent Etosha National Park is accessible via the King Nehale Gate. The Ovambo people sell their local handicrafts to travellers, including intricately weaved baskets, pottery, beautiful jewellery and animal wood carvings.
Accommodation: Ongula Village Homestead Lodge
Description
Property Facilities
Bar, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Lounge Area, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Experiences: ONGULA VILLAGE HOMESTEAD LODGE
Oshiwambo Homestead Tour
ACTIVITY • INFORMATION
Village Walk
ACTIVITY • INFORMATION
Owela
ACTIVITY • INFORMATION
Day Notes
Day 8: Destination: Rundu
Bordering Angola, on the banks of the Okavango River in northern Namibia, the town of Rundu serves as the capital of the eastern Kavango region. Rundu is renowned for its local woodcarvers market and is filled with impressive woodcarvers’ workshops. The town provides a great stopover to refuel for visitors heading to Katima Mulilo, enthralling Popa Falls, or Mahangu Game Reserve, home to the endangered wild dog and lion, leopard, elephant, cheetah, and hippo. Visitors to Rundu can also look forward to great game viewing, excellent bird watching as well as kayaking on the spectacular Kavango River.
Accommodation: Hakusembe River Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia
Description
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Eco Friendly, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Outside Shower, Shower
Day Notes
Day 10: Destination Bushmanland
Renowned for the jaw-dropping scenery of its arid terrain, the remote region of Bushmanland is a beautifully barren expanse that forms part of the famous Kalahari Desert. Sweeping the territory are swathes of open grasslands, scattered shrublands, and occasional indigenous trees, home to the Ju/’hoansi or !Kung people – the earliest known inhabitants of Namibia. Cultural tours demonstrate skills such as tracking, food gathering, and sharing knowledge of local customs and beliefs. About 18km south of Tsumkwe is the Nyae Nyae Pan, a large complex of saltpans fringed by tall grass. Once it rains, the water attracts forty-six species of waterbirds. The majority of Bushmanland’s wildlife is concentrated in Khaudum National Park, an isolated nature reserve inhabited by elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, spotted hyaenas, side-striped and black-backed jackals, rare sightings of African wild dogs, and the largest concentration of roan antelope in Namibia.
Accommodation: Tsumkwe Country Lodge
Description
Property Facilities
Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Shower, Verandah
Experiences: TOWN LODGE WINDHOEK • BUSHMANLAND
San Living Museum
ACTIVITY • OPTIONAL
Day Notes
Day 12: Destination: Etosha East
Located in Northwestern Namibia, Etosha East is a protected sanctuary in the eastern part of the world-renowned Etosha National Park, known as one of the most accessible game reserves in Southern Africa. Etosha East boasts vast open plains scattered with semi-arid savannah grasslands dotted with watering holes and secluded bush camps. An impressive 5000-square-kilometre Etosha salt pan makes up a large area of the eastern side of the park and can even be seen 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.
Accommodation: Namutoni Resort
Description
Your Stay
1 Night Bed and Breakfast
Experiences: NAMUTONI RESORT • ETOSHA EAST
Etosha Pan
ACTIVITY • OPTIONAL
Day Notes
Day 13: Destination: Etosha National Park
Situated in northwestern Namibia, the Etosha National Park offers a premier game viewing experience. The park’s diverse vegetation ranges from dense bush to open plains attracting a variety of wildlife. Located in the heart of the park is the Etosha Pan – a shallow depression that covers an area of 5000 square kilometres. Dry and shimmering for most of the year, the pans fill up with water after seasonal rains, making it the perfect habitat for wildlife. In the dry season, the wildlife is attracted to the perennial springs and waterholes that makes for excellent game viewing. Visitors can look forward to world-class game viewing including a variety of large mammals such as lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, zebra, giraffe, a diversity of birdlife such as flamingoes and pelicans.
Accommodation: Halali Resort
Description
Day 13
HALALI RESORT • ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK
Day Notes
Day 14: Destination: Etosha South
Located just south of the boundary of Etosha National Park in northwestern Namibia, Etosha South makes up the southern region of this wild paradise. The area is comprised of a collection of world class private game reserves. The national park can be accessed via the southern entrance at Andersson’s Gate. Visitors can catch a glimpse of a variety of wildlife including: lion, giraffe, elephant, white and black rhino, and a multitude of plains game. Popular activities include: enjoying an open 4×4 safari with an expert guide, half day or full day drives with the option of a picnic lunch with wine on the full day game drive.
Accommodation: Okaukuejo Resort * ETOSHA SOUTH
Description
Okaukuejo Resort is ideally located 17 km from the southern entrance of the park. Famous for its flood-lit waterhole, where visitors can observe at close quarters a spectacle of wildlife congregating and interacting. The comfortable guest chalets have views overlooking the waterhole. The bush chalets feature double rooms or family chalets. Other facilities include a restaurant, bar, shop, swimming pool, kiosk and camping facilities
Your Stay
1 Night Bed and Breakfast
Experiences: OKAUKUEJO RESORT • ETOSHA SOUTH
Etosha National Park
ACTIVITY • OPTIONAL
Situated in northwestern Namibia, the Etosha National Park offers a premier game viewing experience. The park’s diverse vegetation ranges from dense bush to open plains attracting a variety of wildlife. Located in the heart of the park is the Etosha Pan – a shallow depression that covers an area of 5000 square kilometres. Dry and shimmering for most of the year, the pans fill up with water after seasonal rains, making it the perfect habitat for wildlife. In the dry season, the wildlife is attracted to the perennial springs and waterholes that makes for excellent game viewing. Visitors can look forward to world-class game viewing including a variety of large mammals such as lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, zebra, giraffe, a diversity of birdlife such as flamingoes and pelicans.
Day Notes
Day 15: Destination: Erindi Game Reserve
Located southeast of Omaruru, the Erindi Game Reserve is a spectacularly scenic protected reserve in northwestern Namibia. ‘Erindi’, meaning the place of water boasts incredible lush scenery. Stretching over 79000 hectares, this natural wonderland features comfortable accommodation options and magnificent landscapes encompassing grasslands, savannah, and rugged mountains inhabited by an abundance of diverse wildlife. This idyllic retreat is also known for its ecotourism, rich cultural heritage, and community involvement. Visitors can look forward to cultural village tours, San rock art, guided bush walks and thrilling game drives to view elephants, giraffes, rhino, lion, hyena, zebra, kudu, wildebeest and many other animals. Don’t miss the opportunity to jump on a night drive to catch a glimpse of the nocturnal species that thrive in the dark wilderness.
Accommodation: Erindi Old Traders Lodge
Description
Your Stay
1 Night Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
Day Notes
Day 16: End of Itinerary
Day Notes
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