Duration
12-Day
Etosha National Park, Namibia
12-Day Classic Namibia Self-Drive Safari
Overview
On this 12-day safari, you'll explore Namibia's most iconic destinations in the comfort of a 4x4 SUV. Every accommodation was hand-picked by Firefinch Safaris. Stay at some of the country's finest camps and lodges while journeying through the rugged landscapes of Damaraland, the Kalahari Desert, and Etosha National Park for exceptional wildlife sightings. Explore the ruggedness of the Skeleton Coast, the beauty of the Erongo Mountains and the solitude of the Namib Desert.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Windhoek to Windhoek (Windhoek)
Via Otjiwa Game Farm, Eastern Etosha NP, Etosha NP
Country & park
Namibia / Etosha National Park
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Activities
game drives
Accommodation
Naankuse @ Utopia Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Windhoek (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; Breakfast & Dinner Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
NAD
Rates
Rates Per Person
NAD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Mar 1, 2026 - Jun 30, 2026
n/a* NAD
N$46,607 NAD
Jul 1, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
n/a* NAD
N$57,222 NAD
Nov 1, 2026 - Jun 30, 2027
n/a* NAD
N$51,535 NAD
Jul 1, 2027 - Oct 31, 2027
n/a* NAD
N$63,250 NAD
Before booking
Important To Know
This tour is not available to solo travelers or groups larger than 8 people.
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in Namibian dollars (NAD).
This tour accepts children of all ages.
Rates include a local payment. This means that part of the rate must be paid upfront and part on location during the tour. Move your mouse pointer over a rate to see the local payment.
Quote flow
Request Guidance
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Route
country
Namibia
Start
Windhoek (Day 1)
Day 2
Otjiwa Game Farm
Day 3-4
Eastern Etosha NP
Day 5
Etosha NP
Day 6
Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range)
Day 7-8
Swakopmund (City)
Day 9
Namib Desert
Day 10
Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes)
Day 11
Kalahari Region
End
Windhoek (Windhoek) (Day 12)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and hotels.
Self-drive tour
Drive a vehicle yourself and travel without a tour guide. Rental vehicle is included.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Not for solo travelers
Solo travelers cannot book this private tour.
Suitable for all ages
This tour is suitable for children of all ages.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives
Game drives: self-drive
Getting around: self-drive
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
Clients collect and return their self-drive vehicle at the airport
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Naankuse @ Utopia Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Windhoek (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2
The Otjiwa Collection - Mountain Lodge
Luxury lodge inside Otjiwa Game Farm – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 3-4
Emanya @Etosha Lodge
Luxury lodge just outside Etosha NP – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 5
Okaukuejo Resort
Mid-range chalet inside Etosha NP – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 6
Ai Aiba Lodge
Mid-range lodge near Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 7-8
Giardino Boutique Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Swakopmund (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
Le Mirage Resort & Spa
Luxury lodge less than 1hr drive from Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 10
Le Mirage Resort & Spa
Luxury lodge less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 11
Bagatelle Lodge
Luxury lodge in Kalahari Region – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 12
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
Clients collect their self-drive vehicle at the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Welcome to Namibia and Windhoek
Welcome to Namibia! Upon arrival in Windhoek, the capital city, you’ll be greeted by stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. After picking up your rental vehicle for your safari, you make your way to Windhoek, where you can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the bustling city life. Take the evening to unwind and prepare for the adventure ahead. Mid-range hotel located in Windhoek (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Windhoek (City) Stay: Naankuse @ Utopia Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Windhoek (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 2
Central Namibia and Otjiwa Wildlife Reserve
Depart Windhoek and head north to Otjiwa Safari Lodge. The drive will take you through picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills and vast savannahs. Your first stop will be the Okahandja Craft Market, a lively and colorful marketplace renowned for its wide variety of handcrafted Namibian goods. Here, you’ll find everything from intricately carved wooden sculptures to handwoven textiles and unique jewelry. Spend some time exploring the stalls, interacting with local artisans, and perhaps picking up a few souvenirs to remember your trip. Otjiwa is one of the oldest game farms in Namibia, offering a unique safari experience. Upon arrival, embark on an optional afternoon game drive to spot white rhinos, giraffes, and various antelope species. Luxury lodge located inside Otjiwa Game Farm Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Otjiwa Game Farm Stay: The Otjiwa Collection - Mountain Lodge Luxury lodge located inside Otjiwa Game Farm Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 3
Etosha National Park and Game Viewing
After breakfast at Otjiwa Lodge, we depart for Emanya Lodge, located near the renowned Etosha National Park. The scenic drive takes you through the vast Namibian landscape, with wide open plains, sparse vegetation, and the occasional sighting of wildlife along the way. Upon arrival at Emanya Lodge, you’ll be welcomed by the lush surroundings and warm hospitality of the lodge. Situated a short drive outside the Etosha National Park, the lodge offers a perfect base for exploring the park. After check-in, you can relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, or perhaps take a dip in the pool, before depart on our first exciting safari adventure into the Etosha Park. Luxury lodge located just outside Etosha NP Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Eastern Etosha National Park Stay: Emanya @Etosha Lodge Luxury lodge located just outside Etosha NP Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 4
Explore Etosha East
Today you embark on an exciting journey to explore the eastern part of Etosha National Park, one of Namibia's premier wildlife destinations. Your adventure takes us to several of the park's most renowned waterholes, where we can relax in the serene surroundings and observe a variety of wildlife. At these watering spots, animals come to drink and cool off, offering a unique opportunity to witness natural behaviors up close. Throughout the day, we'll have the chance to see an array of African wildlife. Herds of majestic elephants, with their playful calves, may be seen quenching their thirst and splashing in the waterholes, offering a heartwarming display of family bonds. If we're fortunate, we might also catch sight of some of Etosha's more elusive predators. With a bit of luck, we could spot powerful lions basking in the sun, cheetahs sprinting across the open plains, or even the elusive leopard stealthily moving through the bush. Luxury lodge located just outside Etosha NP Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Eastern Etosha National Park Stay: Emanya @Etosha Lodge Luxury lodge located just outside Etosha NP Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 5
Etosha South
Your journey begins in the eastern section of the park, where we'll travel through the scenic landscape, passing by the renowned Halali area, and continue towards the Okaukuejo region. As we make our way through the park, the changing scenery and abundant wildlife will provide plenty of photo opportunities. Whether it’s the dry, dusty plains or the lush pockets of vegetation surrounding the waterholes, every corner of Etosha offers something spectacular. Tonight you stay inside the park at the Okaukuejo Resort, with its famous waterhole. Start your evening by heading to the Okaukuejo waterhole, where you can enjoy wildlife watching as various animals come to drink, particularly at sunset. It’s a great time to observe elephants, zebras, oryx, and other wildlife, with the soft light providing an excellent atmosphere for photography. Mid-range chalet located inside Etosha NP Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Etosha National Park Stay: Okaukuejo Resort Mid-range chalet located inside Etosha NP Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 6
Erongo Mountains
Start your journey early in the morning from Okaukuejo, ensuring you have a full day to enjoy the drive and arrive at Ai Aiba Lodge in the Erongo Mountains. The drive will take you through the diverse landscapes of Namibia, including arid desert terrain, rocky hills, and scenic views of the Erongo Mountain range. Upon reaching Ai Aiba Lodge in the Erongo Mountains, check in and settle into your accommodation. The lodge offers a peaceful and scenic atmosphere, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscapes. As the day draws to a close, find a spot to enjoy the stunning sunset views over the Erongo Mountains. The changing colors of the sky and landscape offer a breathtaking experience. Mid-range lodge located near Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Ai Aiba Lodge Mid-range lodge located near Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 7
Swakopmund, Skeleton Coast & Zeila Shipwreck
Heading toward Swakopmund, and passing through some of Namibia's most breathtaking landscapes. The route winds through rugged terrain, offering views of the majestic Spitzkoppe Mountain range. Head towards the coastal town of Hentiesbaai, where the vast expanse of the desert meets the Atlantic Ocean. A short drive out, stop at the Zeila Shipwreck. The Shipwreck is a popular landmark located along Namibia's Skeleton Coast. These rusted remains of a cargo ship have become an iconic symbol of the region's treacherous waters and winds. Make your way past Wlotzkasbaken, a is a small coastal settlement just north of Swakopmund. Originally a fishing village, it was established in the early 20th century and has since developed into a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination Upon arrival in Swakopmund, we'll check into our accommodation and unwind before exploring the vibrant town and its attractions, including the museum, shops, and the beach promenade. Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Swakopmund (City) Stay: Giardino Boutique Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 8
Explore Swakopmund Walvis Bay
There are various activities available in Swakopmund. We recommend the Okevo Desert Hike or a boat cruise in Walvis Bay. For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in town. Afterwards, head to the Swakopmund Museum to learn about the town's history and culture, or take a leisurely walk along the Swakopmund Jetty, enjoying beautiful ocean views and snapping some photos. Visit the Kristall Galerie to marvel at stunning quartz crystals and geological displays. Take some time to relax on the beach or wander through the charming town center, soaking in the atmosphere. To end the day, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant with a view of the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Swakopmund (City) Stay: Giardino Boutique Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 9
Namib Desert and Sesriem
Today, you embark on a scenic drive from Swakopmund to Sesriem, gateway to the iconic Sossusvlei dunes. The journey takes you through the vast and ever-changing desert landscape of the Namib, offering stunning views of arid plains, rugged mountains, and endless horizons. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife adapted to this harsh environment, including desert-dwelling antelope and bird species. The drive is not only about reaching your destination but also about immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the Namib Desert. Upon arrival at Le Mirage Lodge, a luxurious oasis nestled in the desert, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views. Here, you can relax and unwind in style, with a range of amenities including a sparkling pool and beautifully designed rooms, all set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes. The evening offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a sundowner while watching the colors of the desert change as the sun sets over the dunes. Luxury lodge located less than 1hr drive from Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Namib Desert Stay: Le Mirage Resort & Spa Luxury lodge located less than 1hr drive from Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 10
Sossusvlei
Embark on an unforgettable excursion to the heart of the Namib Desert, where the towering dunes of Sossusvlei and the dramatic landscapes of Sesriem await. The day begins with an early morning drive to catch the first light of dawn, casting beautiful shadows and colors over the dunes. Climbing to the top of Dune 45 is a must for a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding desert. The climb may be challenging, but the reward is worth it: an incredible vista of undulating sands and the ever-changing landscape. Next, head to the iconic Dead Vlei, a surreal white clay pan surrounded by dark, skeletal trees that have stood the test of time, creating one of the most photographed spots in Namibia. Afterward, visit Sesriem Canyon, a natural wonder carved by the Tsauchab River over millions of years. The narrow, winding passageways and unique rock formations offer a fascinating glimpse into the desert's geological history. Luxury lodge located less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) Stay: Le Mirage Resort & Spa Luxury lodge located less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 11
Kalahari
Today, you set off on a scenic drive from Le Mirage Lodge to Bagatelle Kalahari Lodge, located in the heart of the southern Kalahari Desert. The journey takes you through an ever-changing desert landscape, where the vast, open plains and distinctive red dunes of the Kalahari stretch out before you. Keep your eyes peeled for the unique wildlife that thrives in this semi-arid region, including desert-adapted animals such as springbok, gemsbok, and the occasional meerkat. The journey offers the perfect opportunity to appreciate the rugged beauty of the desert and its surprising diversity of life. Upon arrival at Bagatelle Kalahari Lodge, you’ll be welcomed to a tranquil oasis that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The lodge offers a comfortable retreat with breathtaking views of the Kalahari’s endless horizon. Relax in the lodge’s inviting surroundings, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or enjoy a sundowner while watching the desert sky come alive at dusk. Luxury lodge located in Kalahari Region Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Kalahari Region Stay: Bagatelle Lodge Luxury lodge located in Kalahari Region Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 12
Windhoek and Departure
On your final day, you will journey to the Hosea Kutako Airport, with a stop in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital. In Windhoek, you’ll have some free time to explore the city’s highlights, including landmarks like the Christuskirche, the Tintenpalast (Parliament Building), and the Independence Memorial Museum. Windhoek offers a charming blend of German colonial architecture and African culture. After exploring the city, you will continue your journey to Hosea Kutako Airport, located just outside Windhoek. The drive takes about 45 minutes, allowing you to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve encountered throughout your adventure in Namibia. Please note: While we provide planned itineraries, our tours are fully flexible and can be tailored to match your interests and preferences. Additional activities can be included, or any activities or services you’re not interested in can be left out. We’ll then provide you with an updated programme tailored to your needs and specifications. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Windhoek Airport (Windhoek) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. Clients return their self-drive vehicle at the airport.
Included
Rental vehicle
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Roundtrip airport transfer
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks
Getting There
This tour starts and ends in Windhoek
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
Fly to/from Hosea Kutako Airport (WDH - Check price) near Windhoek
Clients collect and return their self-drive vehicle at the airport
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Firefinch Safaris & Car Hire
5.0 operator rating
28 reviews
Firefinch Safaris is based in Namibia and is a proudly independent company registered with the Namibian Tourism Board and Tour & Safaris Association of Namibia. We have years of experience in planning/ organizing safaris to Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, from well-planned self-drive safaris, camping safaris, high-end fly in safaris, specialised & incentive groups, and private guided safaris, we have done it all and have heaps of experience. Or maybe a beach holiday in Mauritius.
Office In
Namibia
Size
1-5 employees (Founded in 2022)
Member Of
Namibia Tourism Board & Tour & Safari Association of Namibia
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Botswana, Madagascar, Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5very professional
We organized the trip with Mr. Clive, who immediately proved very attentive to our needs and created the tour based on our preferences, giving us excellent advice. There were four of us, and everything went very well. The accommodations and vehicle were perfect. So, I'd say it was an excellent experience.
Adriana · Italy
We had a great time. The guide was knowledgeable, helpful and generous with his information.
We had a great time on safari with the private guide arranged by Firefinch. Firefinch was professional, made everything easy and was flexible when I messed up my flights. We enjoyed the experience so much. It was important for us to use a local operator that booked with local guides and vendors in Namibia. We also appreciated that in a less busy season, we were able to see so many animals and have an authentic time in Namibia.
Erin A. · United States
Outstanding Namibia Self-Drive with Brilliant Guide Support from Firefinch!
We booked an 11-day/10-night self-drive camping trip across Namibia with Firefinch Safaris & Car Hire and it exceeded every expectation. From the moment we landed, everything was seamless: we were collected at the airport and taken to Bluu Car Hire where the team handed over our fully equipped Toyota Hilux 4x4 – rooftop tents, fridge, complete camping kit – all spotless and perfectly prepared. When the fridge stopped working at Spitzkoppe, the team drove out the same day to fix it on the spot. That level of service is unheard of – absolutely amazing! At Urban Camp we were met by the wonderful Gesa, who gave us a thorough briefing, fantastic driving tips, hidden-gem recommendations and made us feel completely looked after from day one. She stayed in touch every single day via WhatsApp – quick replies, extra suggestions, and genuine care that made the whole trip stress-free. Thank you, Gesa – you’re a total star! The itinerary was flawless: Urban Camp (Windhoek) → Otjiwa Eagle’s Rest → Onguma Tamboti (loved the pool after Etosha game drives!) → Okaukuejo → Spitzkoppe (magical – a grown-up playground among the boulders, wish we’d stayed longer) → Alte Brücke Swakopmund → Sossus Oasis (perfect base for early dune climbs) → Bagatelle Kalahari Game Ranch (red dunes, cheetah sightings, horses wandering through camp and the best dinner of the trip!). Every campsite was excellent, bookings were perfect, and the route flowed beautifully. Firefinch’s flexibility, top-quality vehicle, brilliant accommodation choices and – above all – Clive and Gesa’s outstanding guidance and constant care made this the smoothest, most enjoyable self-drive we’ve ever done. Huge value for money and genuinely personal service. We can’t thank Clive, Gesa and the whole Firefinch team enough. If you want a stress-free Namibia adventure with expert backup whenever you need it, book with them. You’ll love every second!
Chantelle · Australia
Firefinch Safaris organized our dream holiday!
We contacted Firefinch Safaris only a few weeks before we intended to travel to Namibia. In only a short amount of times they organized a fantastic trip for us. We had contact with Michelle and she was suberb! She answered quickly, new the best places to stay and tailored the trip after our wishes. She met us when we arrived and gave us all the information we needed to know. Michelle was also available during the whole trip and booked us additional activities and answered any questions we might have had. Getting help from Firefinch Safaris was great value for money!
Bjørk & Åsmund · Norway
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
Are rates charged per person?
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Which currency is this tour priced in?
This tour is offered in Namibian dollars (NAD).
Can children join this tour?
This tour accepts children of all ages.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Naankuse @ Utopia Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Windhoek (City) – Breakfast Included. Meals: Breakfast Included
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour starts and ends in Windhoek
How does the quote request work?
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators () Requests are sent directly to the tour operator If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Firefinch Safaris & Car Hire, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Firefinch Safaris & Car Hire.
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