Africa

The Wild Namibia: Exploring the Natural Wonders

Duration:
15 Days
Price:
From $10,995
Interests:
Natural History
Organize This Trip Print Itinerary
Dead Vlei
Namib Desert
Etosha National Park
Watering hole at Etosha National Park
Giraffe at sunset
Fur seal
Red dunes
Cheetah
Himba village
Organize This Trip
Organize This Trip

About this trip

Namibia draws in visitors with its wide open spaces, and yet the country is packed with potential. Take time to visit the world’s oldest desert, the Namib, as well as surrounding safari areas with exquisite flora, towering red dunes, and fascinating geological formations. Game drives in Etosha National Park include the “Big Five,” plus giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, antelopes, and more. Help with tracking leopards and spotted hyenas that have been rehabilitated and released by the AfriCat Foundation. You’ll also have the chance to learn about Namibia’s cultural history as you visit Twyfelfontein, home to one of the largest concentrations of petroglyphs in Africa, and learn about the Himba, one of the last truly traditional peoples of Namibia.

Highlights

  • Meet local residents, visit markets and taverns, and enjoy a traditional meal during a township tour in Swakopmund.
  • Discover the Skeleton Coast and the largest colony of Cape fur seals at Cape Cross Seal Reserve.
  • Visit the AfriCat Foundation, the largest cheetah and leopard rescue-and-release program in the world, for close encounters with these majestic big cats.
  • Immerse yourself in the colorful landscapes, tabletop mountains, rock formations, giant granite boulders, and bizarre-looking vegetation in Damaraland.
  • Embark on thrilling wildlife-viewing drives in Etosha National Park, where possible species sightings include 114 mammals, 340-plus birds, and 126 reptiles and amphibians.

Activity Level 2: Easy-Moderate

This safari has a cultural and natural focus, and covers diverse ecosystems: the fur seal colonies of the (Atlantic) Skeleton Coast, the Namib Desert, the bushlands of Etosha National Park, the giant Sossusvlei dunes, and beyond. Daily hikes and walks last from about 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. Most challenging are the 1.8-mile roundtrip walk through the Sossusvlei dunes; a 100-foot canyon descent/ascent; and a 1–1.5 hour hike over unsteady terrain at Twyfelfontein. There are some early morning game drives and picnic lunches in the bush so you may observe wildlife at their most active times. Except for the first few months of the year, the weather is generally warm to hot and dry (70°–90°F), with little rain. Overland transfers and game drives use state-of-the-art, air-conditioned, 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers, with large windows and pop-up roofs for optimal viewing. Some days involve long but scenic drives of up to 6 hours, often over bumpy and dusty terrain.

11 Travelers

$10,995

Land Cost

Group size

Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Worry-free Planning & Travel

Enjoy peace of mind with a dedicated educational travel consultant taking care of the logistics and our 24/7/365 support team ready to assist should any problems arise while your group is traveling.

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Cultural immersion

Immerse yourself in local traditions and beliefs through authentic hands-on experiences

Sustainable travel

We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.

Custom-tailored trips

We can customize your itinerary so that it’s the ideal match for your interests, travel dates, and budget

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
U.S.A
Day 1
Depart home for an overnight flight to Namibia
Windhoek
Day 2
Welcome to Namibia! Upon arrival at the Hosea Kutako International Airport, after clearing customs and immigration, you will be greeted by a Holbrook representative. Transfer approximately 25 miles into Windhoek. Namibia's capital reflects a blend of African and European influences. On Independence Avenue, the city's main thoroughfare, well-preserved German colonial buildings stand side-by-side with modern architectural styles, and you can see executives in business suits alongside Herero women in traditional Victorian dress. Check in at your hotel with time to rest from your long journey. This evening, meet your naturalist guide, who will accompany you for the duration of your program. Receive a comprehensive briefing as well as an introduction to Namibia. Dinner tonight is at the hotel with your guide.
Dinner included
Galton House
Sossusvlei
Day 3
This morning after breakfast, check out and depart Windhoek. Travel southwest by safari vehicle through the scenic Khomas Hochland highlands before heading down the Great Escarpment into the Namib Desert below. Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic location along the way. Arrive in the mid-afternoon at Desert Hills Lodge, where you will spend the next two days exploring the remarkable sights of the Namib Desert, considered the oldest desert in the world. Relax and soak in the scenic and tranquil surroundings at the lodge, or if desired, your guide can take you on a scenic sundowner drive in the nearby area.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Dead Valley Lodge
Sossusvlei
Day 4
Rise early for a magical excursion to Sossusvlei within Namib-Naukluft National Park, one of the largest conservation areas in Africa. Sossusvlei is a large, white, salt-and-clay pan that contrasts with the red dunes that surround it. This area boasts some of the highest free-standing sand dunes in the world, reaching up over 1,000 feet. Enter the park gates at sunrise to capture the dunes while the light is soft and shadows accentuate their towering shapes and curves. Your guide will explain the history and formation of the Namib Desert and talk about the fascinating creatures and plants that have adapted to survive in these harsh conditions. Explore the dune fields, with time to enjoy a relaxed picnic breakfast in the shade of a camel thorn tree. On your way back to the hotel, stop to view Sesriem Canyon, a narrow gorge about a mile long and 98 feet deep that was formed 2 million years ago by the Tsauchab River. The canyon provides an excellent visual history of the area's geology. Also be on the lookout for bird life such as Pied Crows, Lanner Falcons, and Lappet-faced Vultures. After lunch at the hotel, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure, with the option to head out on another nature drive with your guide later in the day.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Dead Valley Lodge
Swakopmund
Day 5
The drive today takes you northwest through the awesome and ever-changing desert landscapes of Namib-Naukluft National Park, including the impressive Gaub and Kuiseb canyons. Arrive at the port town of Walvis Bay, where you have the option to visit the lagoon, known for its impressive bird life. In the summer months, the lagoon provides a feeding ground for up to 150,000 birds representing over 150 recorded species, including flamingos, pelicans, gulls, and cormorants. Continue north to Swakopmund, where you can enjoy the pleasant seaside location and cooler coastal air. Swakopmund resembles a small, German coastal resort town, with a variety of shops, restaurants, museums, craft centers, and galleries. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure to relax at the hotel or explore the town and wander along the waterfront on foot. Although the sea is normally cold for swimming, there are pleasant beaches, and the cooler climate is usually refreshing after being in the desert. Dinner this evening will be at one of the popular restaurants in town with your guide.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hansa Hotel
Swakopmund
Day 6
This morning is at leisure; relax at the hotel, explore the town, or take part in one of the many adventure activities available in and around Swakopmund and Walvis Bay (at additional cost-it is advisable to pre-book activities to avoid disappointment). Some options include sand boarding, a marine cruise on the Walvis Bay Lagoon and outer harbor, sea kayaking off Pelican Point, scenic flights, camel rides, and a "Living Desert" excursion to the Namib coastal dune belt. Later, meet up with your guide for lunch in town. This afternoon, take a fascinating township tour to learn about life in the township, as well as the customs and traditions of some of Namibia's different cultures. You will also get to meet residents, visit local markets and shebeens (taverns), and try out some traditional food at dinner, which will be set up to emulate a "home-style" occasion.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hansa Hotel
Damaraland
Day 7
Check out and continue your journey north along the Skeleton Coast to Cape Cross Seal Reserve, where you can view the world's largest breeding colony of Cape fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus). Then head east into the biodiverse region of Damaraland, taking time to view game and absorb the vastness of the scenery along the way. Damaraland is typified by displays of color, tabletop mountains, rock formations, and bizarre-looking vegetation. If time allows this afternoon, visit nearby Twyfelfontein. (If not, there is plenty of time to see it tomorrow.) Strewn over a hillside among flat-topped mountains, Twyfelfontein's boulders and slabs of red sandstone hold some 2,500 prehistoric engravings, probably originating from San people, that depict wildlife, animal tracks, and abstract motifs. Stone tools and other artifacts found at Twyfelfontein suggest that hunter-gatherers occupied the site over a period of perhaps 7,000 years. The engravings lie along two circular routes, one an hour's climb and the other 40 minutes longer. Twyfelfontein is one of Namibia's key National Monuments and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Camp Kipwe
Damaraland
Day 8
After an early breakfast, you will be treated to a memorable 4x4 excursion along the valleys of the ephemeral Aba-Huab River to explore this remarkable region and search for game. Damaraland is home to a variety of desert-adapted wildlife, including desert elephants. The elephants are elusive, but as they are mostly active in the morning, this will be your best chance to see them. Picnic lunch in the shade of a large ana tree by the riverbed today. After returning to camp, there should be time to relax and have some pre-dinner drinks while admiring the stunning views of your surroundings at sunset.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Camp Kipwe
Etosha National Park
Day 9
Today after a very early breakfast, set off on your journey north toward Etosha National Park, traveling via the scenic Grootberg Pass. Along the way, stop to visit an indigenous Himba settlement, traversing rocky terrain to reach them. The Himba have maintained their traditional way of life; learn about their customs and gain insight into their beliefs, practices, and everyday routine. After visiting the Himba, continue to the lodge, located inside the private Ongava Game Reserve on the southern boundary of Etosha National Park. A picnic lunch will be provided at a scenic location along the way, and arrival will be in the very late afternoon or early evening (after a long but rewarding day). After your arrival, you will have some time at leisure, which can be spent appreciating the unique surroundings and viewing game at the lodge's waterhole.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Ongava Lodge
Etosha National Park
Day 10
The next two days are dedicated to memorable game drives inside Etosha National Park and on the private Ongava Game Reserve. Etosha, which was declared a game reserve by the German colonial administration back in 1907, covers an area of 8,600 square miles and consists of grassland, woodland, and savanna. Almost all African game species are represented here, including the "Big Five"-elephant, rhino, Cape buffalo, lion, and leopard. Other highlights include giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, antelopes, hyenas, honey badgers, and warthogs. More than 340 bird species have also been recorded in the park. Your guides will take you into Etosha in the mornings to explore the southern and central areas from the comfort of your specially modified safari vehicles, and in the afternoons you will be treated to game drives on the private Ongava Game Reserve. However, if all guests are in agreement, you could opt to spend the whole day inside Etosha, with lunch in the park, heading east to spend more time in the area around Halali. Either way, you'll return to the comfort of your lodge with enough time to freshen up and enjoy your safari dinner overlooking the camp's waterhole.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Ongava Lodge
Etosha National Park
Day 11
Continue game drives in Etosha.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Ongava Lodge
Okonjima Plains
Day 12
Today's journey takes you southeast onto Okonjima Plains Camp, located at the base of the Omboroko Mountains near Waterberg. Okonjima is home to the AfriCat Foundation, a wildlife sanctuary founded in 1991 that is dedicated to raising conservation awareness, preserving habitat, promoting environmental educational research, and supporting animal welfare. Their main focus is Africa's big cats, especially injured or captured leopards and cheetahs: AfriCat runs the largest cheetah and leopard rescue-and-release program in the world. In the last 17 years, over 1,000 of these predators have been rescued, with over 85% being released back into the wild. Close encounters with leopards and cheetahs are an unforgettable highlight. Activities include tracking leopards by vehicle, visiting the cheetah welfare project, tracking large carnivores (including cheetahs, wild dogs, and spotted hyenas) on foot, taking a fun guided hike on the Bushman Trail, and exploring various self-guided walking trails.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Okonjima Plains Camp
Okonjima Plains
Day 13
Today take part in various activities with your lodge guides, learning about the function and vision of the AfriCat Foundation. Take a morning guided excursion followed by a hearty brunch. Relax through the heat of the day before heading out again on your afternoon excursion. You will also have time in between activities to relax and enjoy your chalet or lounge by the pool amid your idyllic bush surroundings.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Okonjima Plains Camp
Windhoek
Day 14
Rise early this morning for one last memorable guided activity before returning to Plains Camp for a sumptuous brunch. After freshening up, check out and make your way back to Windhoek. The road takes you through Namibia's central highlands and commercial farmlands to reach Windhoek, where you will spend your last night in the comfort of Galton House. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide at one of the popular restaurants in town.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Galton House
Depart
Day 15
This morning can be spent relaxing at your guesthouse, exploring Windhoek, visiting NamCrafts and the Craft Center, or doing some last minute souvenir shopping if time allows, before transfer out to the Windhoek International Airport.
Breakfast- included
11 Travelers

$10,995

Land Cost

Group size

Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What's Included
  • Private transportation for tours and transfers
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Tips
  • Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Jan 1, 2024 - Dec 15, 2026. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Namibia. Passports must be valid for at least six months after your date of entry into Namibia and must have 3 or more blank passport pages.

In addition, U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter Namibia. We strongly recommend applying for your visa online in advance; to do so, visit https://eservices.mhaiss.gov.na/visaonarrival and select "New Visa on Arrival Application."

You will need to create an account and then complete the application. Be prepared with your passport, confirmation of accommodations and travel itinerary, proof of medical/travel insurance, and confirmation of adequate funds (which simply requires a confirmation click). If traveling with minor children, you will also need a full birth certificate and parental consent letter.

The cost for the Visa on Arrival is NAD $1,600 per person (approximately USD $90). This fee is subject to change at any time without prior notice.

The estimated processing time for a Visa on Arrival application is 48 hours. We recommend applying well in advance of your planned travel date to allow for possible delays.

Once approved, print your e-visa permit with the QR code for presentation on arrival. In Namibia, you’ll need to complete and sign a presented arrival form and present this to an immigration official.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Namibia for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Namibia, unless you are traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk (including transiting 12 or more hours through an airport of country with risk of yellow fever), in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination is required.

The CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Namibia.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers may be at risk for exposure to malaria in Namibia, primarily in the northern regions of the country. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. To protect against insect bites, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later). If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.

OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

In addition to malaria, the CDC warns that travelers may be at risk for other illnesses transmitted by mosquitos, ticks, or sand flies, such as dengue fever, chikungunya, African tick-bite fever, and others. Travelers are advised to protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above.

After spending time outdoors, especially in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

WILDLIFE

Follow all instructions from your guides regarding wildlife. Animals may become aggressive to protect themselves, their young or their mates, or to guard a food supply. Do not make sudden movements either toward or away from them, as this may be interpreted as threatening or territorial. Avoid stray dogs, as they may carry rabies. In the unlikely event of being bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal, clean the wound and control bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities in Namibia. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that some hotels offer laundry services (at additional cost).

Temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night. Days are typically hot, while nights can be chilly, sometimes with frost in the desert and during winter months. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to changes in weather and temperature.

Bring clothes in neutral or muted colors such as green, khaki, brown, or grey. We recommend that you avoid wearing bright colors or white as they can easily be spotted by animals.

Army-style camouflage clothing is illegal in Namibia.

Locals tend to dress conservatively. Revealing tank tops and shorts/skirts cut above the knee are typically not recommended in towns.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and light- to medium-weight long-sleeved shirts
  • Shorts and/or skirts
  • A combination of lightweight, quick-drying long pants and medium-weight pants or trousers
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Light- to medium-weight jacket, fleece, or sweater/sweatshirt – Evenings can be cold, especially in desert areas and during June to September
  • Bathing suit – Some hotels have pools.
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes with thorn-proof soles, suitable for hikes and walking over uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar), plus a pair of casual flip-flops or sandals for around your hotel.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and to be considerate of your fellow travelers.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes with the insecticide permethrin to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if applicable; only if traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Money belt
  • Chargers, voltage converter, and plug adapter for electronics

Note that Namibia has implemented a complete ban on plastic shopping/grocery bags in all game parks and reserves. Visitors are requested to avoid bringing these types of plastic bags with them. Reusable zip-top style bags are still permitted.

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