NAMIBIA IN A NUTSHELL - 7 DAYS
Embark on a 7-Day Namibian Odyssey: A Journey Through Timeless Landscapes
This is an excellent introduction that unveils Namibia’s treasures. Traverse a circular path that winds through the ethereal Namib Desert, where Sossusvlei and Deadvlei slumber amidst golden dunes.
Wander through the charming streets of Swakopmund and witness the majestic union of the Atlantic Ocean and desert sands at Sandwich Harbour. Venture from the coastal chill to the heart of wildlife paradise in Etosha, where ivory flats and Mopane forests paint a mesmerising tableau.
Experience wildlife conservation on a smaller, but not less important scale, when you spend your last night in Namibia on a private wildlife reserve. Finally, return to the embrace of Windhoek, the vibrant capital, marking the conclusion of your epic vacation.
Throughout the itinerary, you’ll enjoy comfortable accommodations tailored to your budget and preferences, engaging guided activities, and the flexibility to choose between self-drive or private guided options. Whether you prefer to follow or reverse the suggested route, this itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of Namibia’s wonders, blending landscapes, wildlife, and cultural encounters for a truly immersive experience.
ITINERARY DAY-TO-DAY
Day 1
Arrival – Windhoek – Sesriem
Welcome to Namibia! A driver will welcome you as you enter the airport arrivals hall. You will easily recognise him as he holds a signboard with your name. Transfer to the car rental depot, where you complete the rental paperwork and receive a comprehensive brief of your 4×4 vehicle.
Then, it is time to depart from the airport and journey towards the Namib Desert through Windhoek, descending the Naukluft escarpment. You’ll have ample opportunities for photo stops to capture the stunning scenery along the route. Arrive at the lodge in the afternoon and check in. Relax as you enjoy the beautiful views over the Namib landscapes before sitting down for a delicious dinner. Marvel at the clarity of the stars when you walk to your room.
Overnight at Sossusvlei Lodge or similar.
Day 2
A Day Exploring the Sossusvlei Dunes
Breakfast. This morning, you have an early start to ensure you are at the Namib Naukluft gate at sunrise when it opens. Once you’ve completed the entry permit paperwork and paid the entry fees (included), you drive the 60km to the Sossusvlei dunes. Spend the morning visiting Dune 45, Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and the Sesriem Canyon on our way back to the gate. If you are feeling energetic, climb the Big Daddy dune and admire the expanse of the Namib Sandsea and the sight of Marble Mountain nearby. Enjoy lunch at a nearby lodge. Return to your accommodation and spend the rest of the day relaxing or join one of the optional afternoon activities.
Overnight at Sossusvlei Lodge or similar.
Day 3
Sossusvlei – Swakopmund
Breakfast. Shake the Sossusvlei sand out of your shoes and head further north to the icy water of the Atlantic Ocean. Stop at Solitaire to refuel and sample some famous apple pie. The route crosses the Tropic of Capricorn and winds through the Kuiseb Canyon before reaching the port town of Walvisbay. Continue along the coastal road north to Swakopmund. Arrive in Swakop in the afternoon and check in at your hotel. Enjoy a stroll through town or on the jetty before choosing a restaurant for dinner.
Overnight at Atlantic Garden Boutique Hotel or similar.
Day 4
A Day on the Namibian Coast
Breakfast. Drive the short distance, along the coast, to Walvisbay and check in at the Waterfront for a day full of adventures. The day starts with a cruise in the Walvis Bay Harbour, where you’ll spot seals, dolphins, pelicans and flamingos. If you’re fortunate, you might spot whales and sunfish.
On your return to the Waterfront, you will meet your guide and embark on an epic 4×4 adventure through the dunes of the Namib Naukluft Park to Sandwich Harbour. The route to Sandwich Harbour depends on the tides. It may run along the beach, past the Lange Wand, before you head through the dune belt to a scenic lookout point from where you can see the whole Sandwich Harbour estuary.
Your guide is very experienced, and although you’ll want to hold your breath at some of the steep dune descents, you are in skilful hands. A light lunch platter is served in the dunes with various “finger” foods, i.e., spring rolls, crostinis, calamari sticks, chicken wings, and snacks like droёwors, chips, cookies with sparkling wine, beer, coke, and water.
Return to Swakopmund after your activity. Freshen up before choosing a restaurant for dinner. The cruise and dune trip will take the entire day. Travel time between Swakopmund and Walvisbay is approximately 0h40.
Overnight at Atlantic Garden Boutique Hotel or similar.
Day 5
Swakopmund – Etosha
Enjoy an early breakfast, stock up on water and snacks for the road, and drive from Swakopmund to Etosha. Our route travels via the Moon Landscape and Goanikontes Oasis before joining the tar road via Usakos and Karibib. Stop in Omaruru for lunch before continuing to Outjo and Toshari Lodge. Arrive at the lodge and relax after the day’s long drive. Enjoy a beautiful sundowner looking out over the Mopane woodland before dinner. If time permits, there may be time for a late afternoon game drive inside the park.
Overnight at Toshari Lodge or similar.
Day 6
A Day in Etosha National Park
Breakfast. A full day’s worth of game driving awaits. Enter the park at sunrise to enjoy the cool morning air and frequent sightings of animals. The animals are most active during the cooler morning- and late afternoon hours. Visit some of the many waterholes that dot the side of the massive salt pan.
The designated lookout point affords splendid views of the massive Etosha Pan. The pan covers about 25 percent of the park and is a shallow depression that is dry for most of the year but fed by moisture from perennial springs on the fringes. Enjoy lunch at a camp in the park and continue your game viewing once the afternoon temperatures have cooled.
Take a break at Okaukuejo Camp, where you can observe the bustling activity at the waterhole as various animals come and go. Exit the park before sunset and return to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner.
Overnight at Toshari Lodge or similar.
Day 7
Etosha – Windhoek – Depart
Breakfast. Before heading south to Windhoek, you can enter Etosha for one final early morning game drive. On the route back to Namibia’s capital city, travel through the small towns of Outjo, Otjiwarongo and Okahandja before arriving in Windhoek. Depending on your flight departure, there may be time for lunch and souvenir shopping at the Namibia Craft Centre. Transfer to the airport to check in for your onward flight.
