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20 Day Discovering Namibia Self-Drive

20 DAYS - 19 NIGHTS
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INTRODUCTION

This 20-day self-drive itinerary really does pack in most of Namibia’s highlights. Whether your interest is in Namibian people, wildlife, stunning landscapes or just some fabulous Namibian sunshine, then the Namibian Discoverer self-drive is for you.

 

Start Accommodation Options Destination Basis Duration
Day 1 Windhoek Gardens Boutique Hotel Accommodation/camping Windhoek B&B 1 Night
Day 2 Otjiwa Safari Lodge accommodation Waterberg Region D,B&B 1 Night
 Otjiwa Campsites camping Self-catering
Day 3 Okaukuejo Resort accommodation Etosha South B&B 1 Night
Okaukuejo Campsite camping Self-catering
Day 4 Namutoni Resort accommodation Etosha East B&B 1 Night
Namutoni Campsite camping Self-catering
Day 5 Ongula Village Homestead Lodge accommodation Ovamboland D,B&B 2 Nights
Ongula Village Campsite camping Self-catering
Day 7 Epupa Camp accommodation Epupa Falls D,B&B 2 Nights
Epupa Falls Camping camping Self-catering
Day 9 Opuwo Country Lodge accommodation Opuwo B&B 1 Night
Camping at Opuwo Country Hotel camping Self-catering
Day 10 Twyfelfontein Country Lodge accommodation Twyfelfontein D,B&B 1 Night
Madisa Campsite camping Self-catering
Day 11 Prost Hotel Swakopmund Accommodation/camping Swakopmund B&B 2 Nights
Day 13 Desert Camp accommodation Sesriem B&B 2 Nights
Sesriem Campsite camping Self-catering
Day 15 Klein-Aus Vista Desert Horse Inn Gondwana Collection Namibia accommodation Aus B&B 2 Nights
Klein-Aus Vista Desert Horse Campsite Gondwana Collection Namibia camping Self-catering
Day 17 Fish River Lodge accommodation Fish River Canyon D,B&B 2 Nights
Canyon Roadhouse Campsite Gondwana Collection Namibia camping Self-catering
Day 19 Kalahari Anib Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia accommodation Mariental B&B 1 Night
Kalahari Anib Campsite Gondwana Collection Namibia camping Self-catering

 

Key
B&B: Bed and Breakfast. D,B&B: Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

 

1

Day 1: Windhoek Gardens Boutique Hotel, Windhoek

Day Itinerary

Upon arrival into Windhoek, collect your vehicle and drive to your guesthouse in Windhoek. Here, a tour consultant to go through your travel plans, hand over your welcome pack and answer any last-minute questions. Depending on the time of arrival perhaps wander into the city centre, or relax by the pool. You may choose to join an optional township tour, a sunset horse ride, or even head out for a birding trip. Overnight in twin share room with en suite facilities on a bed and breakfast, all additional meals and optional activities at own expense.  Note there is no evening restaurant facility at this guesthouse – though a number of restaurants nearby including Joe’s Beerhouse.  Approx 40mins from airport to city plus time to collect vehicle

Overnight: Windhoek Gardens Guesthouse- both options

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

2

Day 2: Otjiwa Safari Lodge, Waterberg Region

Today we head north toward Otjiwarongo, you overnight at Otjiwa Lodge situated on a private reserve, perhaps join an optional game drive to see unusual species such as black and white rhino, black springbok, roan, blesbok and the rare nyala. The lodge is ideally located to visit the nearby CCF – the Cheetah Conservation Fund and recommend a visit the educational centre and museum, their programme is an innovative one, not only do they educate the local farmers and villagers but train dogs to protect the livestock from the cheetahs ensuring that both survive – children of all ages are welcome at the educational centre – if you wish to enjoy the cheetah run and see them exercised kids under 12 must stay outside the enclosure. However, it’s a great way to see them close up and appreciate these wonderful predators. Overnight in twin bed room with breakfast included Approx 4hours

Accommodated option

Overnight: Otjiwa Lodge –  BB

Camping option

Overnight: Otjiwa Campsite – no meals included

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

3

Day 3: Okaukuejo Resort, Etosha South

Day Itinerary

Onward to Etosha, one of the best game reserves in Southern Africa and home to many species of game including lion, cheetah, leopard, elephant, hyena, giraffe, and many types of antelope including the endemic black-faced impala. You will be based in the park for two nights and each rest camp has its own swimming pool, floodlit waterhole, shop and restaurant. Experience game drives in your own vehicle, criss-crossing the park on the gravel roads that connect the waterholes and witness the shimmering mirages on Etosha Pan, a massive ancient salt lake that over the millenia dried leaving a complex of salt pans but nevertheless remains large enough that it can be seen from space! Overnight in bush chalet on a bed and breakfast basis Approx 3-4hours; game drives vary

Accommodated option

Overnight: Okaukeujo Resort –  BB

Camping option

Overnight: Okaukuejo Campsite – no meals included

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

 

4

Day 4: Namutoni Resort, Etosha East

Day Itinerary

Journey towards Namutoni, overnight in a bush chalet on bed and breakfast basis.

Accommodated option

Overnight: Namutoni Resort –  BB

Camping option

Overnight: Namutoni Campsite – no meals included 

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

5-6

Day 5-6: Ongula Village Homestead Lodge, Ovamboland

Day Itinerary

Onto Ongula Village Homestead located in the densely populated Owamboland region where you have the opportunity to experience authentic village life at an Owambo homestead. The first thing that strikes visitors to this part of Namibia is the abundance of people, unlike the rest of the country this is a densely populated region. People, livestock, shebeens (bars) and markets are everywhere, seemingly all existing harmoniously in unplanned chaos. Overnight dinner, bed and breakfast with activities at own expense and the chance to interact with one of the most prolific tribes and regions of the country. Approx 4-4.5hours

Ovamboland is very different from the rest of Namibia with an environment which allows for crop farming and hence has a significantly higher population, indeed more than half of the country’s population lives in this unique part of Namibia. The landscape is mostly flat and monotonous with scattered small settlements and when the rains are good Owamboland is covered with large pans. Most of the Ovambo are small-scale farmers working the poor soils by hand. Oshakati is the biggest town in the region and to the south is the Etosha National Park which is accessible via the King Nehale Gate. Aside from agriculture people earn income selling their local art ware – intricately weaved baskets, pottery, beautiful jewellery and animal wood carvings.

Accommodated option

Overnight: Ongula Village Homestead –  DBB

Camping option

Overnight: Ongula Village Campsite – no meals included 

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

7-8

Day 7-8: Hakusembe River Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia, Rundu

Day Itinerary

Continue to the most northerly point – the Kunene River creates the border between Namibia and Angola and where water provides a much-needed relief to man and animal alike, casting an oasis through the desert landscape. You’ll spend two nights here on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis giving you time to explore. Although Epupa Falls are certainly not the biggest or highest in Africa, they do have their own signature when it comes to a seasonal waterfall, the attractive scenery lures visitors to a series of cascades, where the Kunene River drops just 60m over a distance of about 1.5km. They subsequently divide into a mass of channels that form a myriad of rock pools and the region attracts many species of birds in a unique desert setting. Approx 4-4.5hours

Accommodated option

Overnight: Epupa Camp –  BB

Camping option

Overnight: Epupa Campsite – no meals included

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

9

Day 9: Opuwo Country Lodge, Opuwo

Day Itinerary

Depart for the town of Opuwo, the gateway to the Kunene region in the north-western part of Namibia. The remote area south of the Kunene River is home to the Himba people, who have kept their ethnic individuality and culture in the seclusion of Kaokoland. Overnight in luxury twin room with en-suite facilities on a bed and breakfast basis, all other meals will be at client’s own expense. Approx 4-4.5hours 

Accommodated option

Overnight: Opuwo Country Lodge –  DBB

Camping option

Overnight: Opuwo Campsite – no meals included 

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

10

Day 10: Twyfelfontein Country Lodge, Twyfelfontein

Day Itinerary

Today the journey takes you into Damaraland and onto Buruxa Camp, your overnight accommodation where you will be based for the evening in a permanent tent on dinner, bed and breakfast basis. Approx. 4 hours

Accommodated option

Overnight: Twyfelfontein Lodge –  DBB

Camping option

Overnight: Madisa Campsite – no meals included 

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

 

11-12

Day 11-12: Prost Hotel Swakopmund, Swakopmund

Day Itinerary

After breakfast and depart from the lodge, the route today take us onto the drive down the Skeleton Coast we explore the remains of a small shipwreck arriving in Swakopmund mid-afternoon giving you time to explore this quaint seaside town on foot. Overnight accommodation is in twin share rooms with en-suite bathroom. Approx. 5 hours

Overnight: Prost Hotel – both options

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

 

13-14

Day 13-14: Desert Camp, Sesriem

Day Itinerary

Travel via Kuiseb Pass ,and Gaub Pass to continue on to Solitaire and our camp. You arrive at Sossus Dunes Lodge located inside Namib Naukluft Park, here, enjoy the wonder of the magnificent dunes of Sossusvlei – recommend you arrive here early or alternatively explore during late afternoon when the colour of the dunes change and the colours are incredible.  Sossusvlei and the surrounding sand dune sea is reputed to have some of the highest dunes in the world and is certainly part of one of the oldest deserts; this is an excellent location for photography and exploring on foot will give you a greater sense of understanding to this harsh and seemingly endless environment. Overnight in a double/twin bedded chalet with en-suite facilities and private veranda; bed and breakfast basis – all other meals/activities will be at client’s expense. Approx 5hours.  Note: The last section into the region is 4×4 only and unless you are an experienced 4×4 sand driver we recommend you leave the vehicle at the 2×4 car park and walk or take a shuttle service the final 5km into the heart of this sea of sand

Accommodated option

Overnight: Desert Camp-  BB

Camping option

Overnight: Sesriem Campsite – no meals included 

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

15-16

Day 15-16: Klein-Aus Vista Desert Horse Inn Gondwana Collection Namibia, Aus

Day Itinerary

Onward to one of the best kept secrets of Namibia – Klein Aus, a truly beautiful spot, situated on the edge of the desert with endless views of open plains and mountains. You’ll be based here for 2 nights and have time for optional activities. Enjoy self-guided hikes or mountain bike trails (bikes available for hire) in the Aus Mountains, join the lodge for a guided excursion in the surrounding area, or take a self-guided day trip to Luderitz to visit Kolmanskop Ghost Town, a tribute to the diamond mining of the past and explore this rugged and desolate coastline where you can look out for African penguins! En route back to Klein Aus stop at the waterhole and hide of the horses of the Namib, one of only 2 or 3 truly recognised wild herds of horses in the world and be amazed at how they survive in this harsh environment. Your two nights will be in a twin share chalet/room on a bed and breakfast basis, all other meals will be at client’s expense. Approx 5-5.5hours

Accommodated option

Overnight: Klein-Aus Vista Desert Horse Inn –  BB

Camping option

Overnight: Klein-Aus Vista Desert Campsite – no meals included

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

 

17-18

Day 17-18: Fish River Lodge, Fish River Canyon

Day Itinerary

Today drive to Fish River Canyon, for overnight at Fish River Lodge – this afternoon sit and appreciate the stunning views or perhaps wander along the rim to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of the area. The following day recommend joining an optional activity to either walk or drive into the canyon (note that walks are seasonal and during winter months only); however, the drive to the base of the canyon will ensure you see the changing geology and there’s a chance to plunge into the fresh water pool at the base before gradually returning to the lodge for mid-afternoon – this is a highly recommended option and we suggest pre-booking to avoid disappointment. Two nights are spent here on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, with additional meals and activities at client’s expense. Approx 4-5hours plus stops 

Accommodated option

Overnight: Fish River Lodge –  DBB

Camping option

Overnight: Canyon Roadhouse Campsite – no meals included 

Carving out an epic rocky wonderland in the south of Namibia, the Fish River has created Africa’s largest and the world’s second largest canyon. Hot, dry and stony, the Fish River Canyon measures a whopping 160 kilometres in length, at times 27 kilometres in width and 550 metres in depth. The awe-inspiring natural beauty of this ancient geological marvel draws visitors from around the globe. For those looking for adventure, the intense 85 kilometre Fish River Hiking Trail through1.5 billion years of geological history will definitely thrill avid adventure enthusiasts, and for visitors looking to relax, head over to the canyon’s southern end to enjoy a soak in the mineral waters of the renowned hot springs of Ai-Ais, or take in the spectacularly scenic views from Hobas Restcamp as well as numerous other viewpoints along its rim. Other popular activities include scenic chartered flights, horse riding, nature drives and seasonal kayaking.

 

Recommended Activities

AM Scenic Drive
Canyon Rim Walk
Fat bike trials

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

19

Day 19: Kalahari Anib Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia, Mariental

Day Itinerary

Today head north onto the red dunes of the Kalahari Basin, where you’ll overnight at Bagatelle Kalahari Game Reserve in a standard room on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, all other meals will be at client’s own expense. If time permits perhaps join an optional guided nature drive around the reserve to look out for some of the desert adapted wildlife. Approx 4hours 

Accommodated option

Overnight: Kalahari Anib Lodge –  BB

Camping option

Overnight: Kalahari Anib Campsite – no meals included 

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

20

Day 20: End of Itinerary

Day Itinerary

Continue towards Windhoek and onwards to the Airport where you will drop of the vehicle, continue with your onwards connecting flight. Approx. 3 hour to City and 40min to the airport.

Consultant Notes

As with all car hire companies if you have an accident and they prove you were negligent– for example – speeding then the zero excess becomes void and you are liable. You will complete the contract and discuss any extras with the car rental company upon collection of the vehicle – please check the vehicle carefully as you are responsible for it thereafter. If you have any problems with the car whilst you are on the road please contact them directly. With all car rentals you will need to provide your passport, driving licence (written in English or an international licence), as well as supply credit card for refundable deposit. A GPS is often available by the car rental companies (at clients’ own expense), however, we do find that due to our road network system (and small population), it is not normally required, we realize this is a personal preference and are happy to pre-book for you. Please do not drive around/after sunset

Please note that this quote is based on the availability of both accommodation/ vehicle and on the understanding that no bookings have been made. Should we need to use alternative options the price and itinerary is subject to change.

Price per person to Serene African Adventures 

Valid from 1st November 2021 until 30 June 2022

Accommodated options 

Based on 2 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 standard vehicle: N$ 42,865.00

Based on 3 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 standard vehicle: N$ 37,550.00

Based on 4 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 standard vehicle: N$ 34,895.00

Single Supplement                                             N$ 6,510.00

Camping options
Based on 2 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 fully equipped vehicle:
N$ 21,105.00

Based on 3 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 fully equipped vehicle:
N$  16,325.00

Based on 4 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 fully equipped vehicle:
N$ 13,540.00

Single Supplement                                                    N$ 400.00

Valid from 1st November 2021 until 30 June 2022

Accommodated options

Based on 2 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 standard vehicle: N$ 45,175.00

Based on 3 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 standard vehicle: N$ 39,595.00

Based on 4 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 standard vehicle: N$ 36,800.00

Single Supplement                                             N$ 6,620.00

Camping options
Based on 2 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 fully equipped vehicle:
N$ 22,270.00

Based on 3 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 fully equipped vehicle:
N$ 17,185.00

Based on 4 people sharing travelling with a 4×4 fully equipped vehicle:
N$ 14,225.00

Single Supplement                                                    N$ 400.00

Included

  • Accommodation / Campsite and activities as set out in itinerary;
  • Car rental as indicated;
  • Meals as stated in itinerary;
  • vat; tourism levy;
  • welcome pack;

Standard Inclusions for car rental- these might vary depending on the car rental – All vehicles on zero excess

  • Unlimited kms,
  • Super CDW,
  • Super theft loss waiver;
  • Stamp duty, VAT;
  • airport surcharge; map, inbound guide;
  • tyre & windscreen cover
  • 1 or 2 spare wheel/s depending on car rental

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.

Excluded

  • International and other flights;
  • visas; fuel;
  • additional meals and optional activities; personal
  • insurance; tips/gratuities; items of a personal nature;
  • curios; entry fees to parks and places of interest;
  • extras for car hire as indicated below

Standard exclusions for car rental- these might vary depending on the car rental – All vehicles on zero excess 

  • Rental deposit
  • contract fee
  • fuel; tyre/rim/glass (all) waiver combined;
  • refueling fee
  • additional driver per rental
  • young driver surcharge N (18-20 yrs);
  • fine handling fee
  • claim handling fee
  • Assessors fee in event damage is greater than N$5000
  • Baby seat/booster seat
  • GPS unit + (plus refundable deposit)
  • Jerry can  (plus refundable deposit);
  • second spare wheel – depending on car rental company – please inquire
  • delivery/collection fee during office hours – Within 25km
  • Further than 25km; delivery collection after hours /weekends within 25km; further than 25km
  • Water/sand/and undercarriage damage renters account; hail damage ;
  • towing charges if not mechanical – renters account; no show fees/cancellation T&C; lost keys surcharge /call out  + replacement of keys;
  • valet service (only if car excessively dirty and at discretion of the car rental company – renter account;
  • damage to equipment – renter account; towing – mechanical (car rental);
  • towing – accident – renter account;
  • carbon emission tax ;

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

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