Duration
19-Day
Damaraland, Namibia
This is a self-drive holiday of nearly three-weeks that begins in Windhoek then heads south to the Kalahari Desert and continues to the dramatic Fish River Canyon, for a hiking and camping trip you won't forget. Turn north via Aus to the Sossusvlei region to see the iconic sand dunes. Then explore Swakopmund on the Skeleton Coast and search for desert-dwelling elephant in Damaraland. Next stop is Etosha National Park. Finally, spend the a night in the Erongo Mountains of the central highlands.
Plan snapshot
Duration
19-Day
Route
Windhoek to Windhoek (Windhoek)
Via Kalahari Region, Fish River Canyon (|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld TP), Aus (Town)
Country & park
Namibia / Damaraland
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
12 years
Activities
game drives & nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
The Olive Exclusive - Luxury hotel in Windhoek (City) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals
Meals at Own Expense; Breakfast & Dinner Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
USD
Before booking
Quote flow
This mid-range tour uses lodges and tented camps.
Drive a vehicle yourself and travel without a tour guide. Rental vehicle is included.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Solo travelers cannot book this private tour.
The minimum age for this tour is 12 years.
Day 1
Luxury hotel in Windhoek (City) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals at Own Expense
Day 2
Luxury lodge in Kalahari Region – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 3-4
Mid-range lodge at Fish River Canyon (|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld TP) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 5-6
Mid-range chalet in Aus (Town) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 7-8
Luxury lodge just outside Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 9
Mid-range hotel in Swakopmund (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10-11
Mid-range lodge inside Damaraland – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12-13
Luxury tented camp inside Damaraland – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14-15
Luxury tented camp bordering Etosha NP without fences
Day 14: Breakfast & Dinner Included; Day 15: All Meals Included
Day 16-17
Luxury lodge inside Onguma GR – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 18
Mid-range lodge near Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 19
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Upon arrival to Windhoek, you will be met by your driver and transferred to your lovely accommodation in the center of Windhoek. Your rental vehicle will be delivered to your hotel. Your vehicle will be complete with a cool box and a mobile phone. You will also be provided with an information pack which will include driving directions, accommodation details and contact phone numbers. You can then spend the rest of the day exploring Namibia’s capital city. Luxury hotel located in Windhoek (City) Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Day 2
Today you’ll drive south for approximately two hours to your lovely lodge on the edge of the vegetated Kalahari Desert. Here you can relax by the lodge’s pool or join a scenic drive in the private reserve. Although vegetation and wildlife is sparse, there is a good variety of animals including giraffe, springbok, oryx, kudu and zebra. You might even catch a glimpse of the bat-eared fox, which is a specialist of this region. Luxury lodge located in Kalahari Region Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 3
After breakfast at your lodge, you’ll drive south to the spectacular Fish River Canyon, with a stop at Quiver Tree Forest en route. You’ll arrive at your lodge by mid-afternoon in time to join a sunset walk, before returning to the lodge for a delicious evening meal. This afternoon explore the demarcated trails along the canyon edge or head out on a canyon sundowner drive. Mid-range lodge located at Fish River Canyon (|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld TP) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 4
Today you’ll have a full day to explore the breathtaking Fish River Canyon on foot. After a hearty breakfast, embark on one of the adventure activities that Fish River Lodge has on offer, from both guided and unguided including canyon drives, hiking and cycling. Mid-range lodge located at Fish River Canyon (|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld TP) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 5
After breakfast, drive north and then west toward the coast, where arid plains give way to towering sand dunes. Settle into Eagle's Nest Chalets near the town of Aus for a two-night stay. These nine secluded chalets are built into the rugged rocky terrain, offering a unique and peaceful retreat. While exploring this intriguing region, keep a keen eye out for the elusive Namib Desert horses - a feral population whose mysterious origins add a layer of wonder to this vast landscape. Mid-range chalet located in Aus (Town) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 6
Spend a full day exploring this diverse region, from the coastal charm of Lüderitz to the haunting beauty of Kolmanskop. Once a wealthy diamond-mining hub, Kolmanskop is now a ghost town where sand-filled buildings create an eerie, photographic spectacle. You can also opt for a boat trip to spot African penguins or explore the Klein-Aus Vista Reserve via its numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. It is a day of striking contrasts, blending industrial history with rugged natural beauty. Mid-range chalet located in Aus (Town) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 7
After breakfast, embark on a six-hour journey to the Namib-Naukluft National Park, home to the country's world-famous towering sand dunes. You will spend the next two nights in this spectacular region, with ample time to climb the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei and explore the rugged depths of Sesriem Canyon. This journey into the heart of the southwest offers a profound encounter with some of the most dramatic and celebrated geographical formations on the planet. Luxury lodge located just outside Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 8
Wake early for sunrise access to the park, made effortless via Kulala Desert Lodge’s private gate. You can also opt for a spectacular hot-air balloon flight for an aerial view of the desert. Your day can be filled with guided nature drives to spot desert-adapted wildlife, dune walks, and a classic sundowner tour. As night falls, join an expert-led stargazing excursion to fully appreciate the brilliant, dark skies of the Namib - a quintessential and unforgettable desert experience. Luxury lodge located just outside Namib-Naukluft NP (Namib Desert) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 9
Drive north through dramatic canyons to the coastal town of Swakopmund, stopping at Walvis Bay along the way. This tidal lagoon is a haven for flamingos and pelicans, offering a beautiful introduction to the Skeleton Coast. Swakopmund itself is a charming blend of German colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Serving as an ideal midpoint for your journey, the town provides a unique coastal retreat between your desert adventures and the wildlife of northern Namibia. Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 10
Continue your journey north along the Skeleton Coast toward Damaraland, stopping at Henties Bay to witness the massive Cape Cross seal colony. Your destination is Camp Kipwe, where luxury bungalows are uniquely nestled among giant granite boulders. Spend the afternoon relaxing in this dramatic setting or explore the local trails, stopping at scenic viewpoints to admire the rugged beauty of the Damaraland landscape. It is a sophisticated and peaceful base for your northern adventures. Mid-range lodge located inside Damaraland All meals included Drinks not included
Day 12
Delve deeper into this fascinating region of Damaraland as you head further north towards the outpost of Palmwag, where you will be picked up and driven into Desert Rhino Camp. The camp is so remote that you leave your car in a secure parking spot and your guide will drive you the further few hours into camp. This normally taking the form of a nature drive. As the name suggests, this will be your base for tracking rare populations of desert-dwelling rhino, in collaboration with Save The Rhino Trust. Enjoy a walk or just a sundowner drink this afternoon ahead of a busy day tomorrow. Luxury tented camp located inside Damaraland All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 13
Desert Rhino Camp specializes in tracking the world's largest free-ranging population of black rhinos. Working alongside Save The Rhino Trust, you will head out with expert rangers to locate these rare animals in their rugged Damaraland habitat. Your activities are included today, and while the day can be long and adventurous, the reward of witnessing rhinos, alongside potential sightings of lions and elephants, is unparalleled. This immersive conservation-led experience provides a profound and rare connection to the wild. Luxury tented camp located inside Damaraland All meals included All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)
Day 14
Drive east to Etosha National Park, a premier safari destination famed for its diverse wildlife sightings around vital waterholes. From lions and elephants to rare black rhinos and cheetahs, the park offers an incredible array of species. Your home for the next two nights is Andersson’s at Ongava, a sophisticated, modern lodge featuring just eight spacious suites. Overlooking a productive private waterhole, the lodge provides an intimate and luxurious base for your Etosha adventure. Luxury tented camp bordering Etosha NP without fences Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 15
Enjoy a full day exploring Etosha and the private Ongava Reserve. Navigate the park independently to visit vital waterholes and the dramatic Etosha Pan, a key breeding ground for flamingos. For a deeper perspective, book a guided safari within the Ongava Reserve, visit the onsite research center, or observe wildlife from the camp's unique water-level hide. This combination of self-drive freedom and expert-led discovery ensures a comprehensive and immersive Etosha experience. Luxury tented camp bordering Etosha NP without fences All meals included Drinks not included
Day 16
On this morning, you will have the opportunity to book another guided activity with Ongava, before you depart and head east. Take your time as you drive through the park and treat the journey as a self-guided game drive and stop for wildlife and at the waterholes on the way. Your destination is Onguma Bush Camp, which is on the private Onguma Nature Reserve adjacent to the eastern boundary of Etosha National Park, where you will stay for two nights. Luxury lodge located inside Onguma GR Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 17
You will have a final full day to explore the eastern reaches of Etosha National Park. You have the choice of booking guided activities with the lodge. Also, you can explore Etosha National Park independently by driving in through the Von Lindequist gate and paying the necessary park fees at the park office at Namutoni Rest Camp. From Onguma Bush Camp, both game drives into the national park and on the private reserve are available as well as guided bush walks on the reserve. These can be a fascinating and a nice chance to stretch your legs. Luxury lodge located inside Onguma GR Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 18
Your journey concludes at Ai Aiba Lodge, nestled among the dramatic peaks of the Erongo Mountains. After an optional final morning in Etosha, drive south to the central highlands to explore this ancient landscape. Included guided nature walks offer a fascinating look at the local flora, fauna, and prehistoric rock art. Alternatively, simply unwind and soak in the majestic mountain views from your private chalet, providing a peaceful and scenic end to your Namibian adventure. Mid-range lodge located near Erongo Mountains (Mountain Range) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 19
Today your Namibian self-drive adventure comes to a close. Enjoy a final scenic drive back to Windhoek, which takes approximately three and a half hours. Upon arrival, you’ll have time for lunch and to return your rental vehicle before heading to the airport for your international flight home. You depart with a wealth of memories from your journey through Namibia’s extraordinary landscapes, from the vast deserts of the south to the wildlife-rich plains of the north. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Tour step
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
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
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (No tip expected)
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)
Offered by
Wayfairer Travel designs luxury experiences in Africa, which aim to maximise the benefits to communities and conservation. Our dedicated Africa Specialists provide a tailor-made service to create personalized travel experiences for discerning travellers. All our trips are custom made and are designed around you. This means that you can travel on dates that are convenient for you, you can explore sights that interest you at your own pace and you can choose accommodation to suit your style and budget.
Offices In
United Kingdom, United States
Size
20-50 employees (Founded in 2012)
Member Of
ATTA, ATOL & ABTOT
Tour Types
Custom luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Botswana, Congo (Brazzaville), Congo (DRC), Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Réunion, Rwanda, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5We had a wonderful trip to Tanzania combining the national parks of Nyerere and Ruaha and the beach on Zanzibar. Communication with Jess and Thea at Wayfarer was great and everything worked smoothly for us with flights and transfers all on time- even in the remote area of Ruaha. Having done safaris in more popular areas we wanted the less frequented areas of Tanzania and weren’t disappointed. Mdonye old river camp in Ruaha is a distance from anywhere but you really do feel you have the park to yourselves- maybe spotting another vehicle from the camp is the only other vehicle you are likely to see- and great wildlife spotting- particularly lion and leopard. Lake Manze in Nyerere a different area of habitat but again few other vehicles. Both camps are rustic but quite comfortable and both catered superbly for my wife’s gluten and dairy intolerance . Breezes on Zanzibar was very good with superb staff service. Just great to chill out there after the safari week. Wayfairer catered well for the type of trip we were looking to do
Peter and Judith · United Kingdom
My husband and I plus one of our adult daughters spent three weeks in southern Africa - Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and South Africa. Wayfairer listened to us and planned an extraordinary adventure. Every hotel, meal, transfer, flight, activity, was on time and exceeded expectations: Devils pool in Zambia was an absolute highlight - breakfast trip and the best coffee we had in three weeks, Bike tour of Victoria Falls gave us the lay of the land and the rainforest walk clearly demonstrated why you should not do the Devils Pool (as you view it from the Zimbabwe side - but do it anyway - the double rainbow as you look over the 110 metre drop is totally worth it!) . The Zambezi river cruise is also a delight as we paused mid river to allow a herd of around 40 elephants to swim across. The young bulls at the back wrestling with each other the entire way showed unexpected athleticism from these huge animals. Botswana was simply sublime. The government has supported and fostered a community tourist industry which 'adopts' you on entry. Chobe Game Lodge was our first stay - here you get the most exquisite animal encounters. An early game drive starts each day where we saw big cats - three prides of lions, an elusive leopard (remember to look in the trees!), giraffes, water buffalo, many antelopes and an array of beautiful birds. The all female guides are knowledgeable and determined to find whatever you want to see. This Lodge has the added advantage of location on the Chobe River so, you cruise after lunch - Crocodiles, Eagles, Hippopotamus, Baboons and hundreds of elephants! Then, the late afternoon game drive brings out the 'thirsty multitudes' as they prepare for the cooler evening and their search for dinner or their preparation to hide from becoming dinner! Three nights at Chobe then off to Camp Okavango in the delta - the flight in is a hoot - thermals off the desert create turbulence so it is a little rocky at times but the planes are well maintained and the pilots friendly and competent. We spent three nights at Camp Okavango amongst much song from the delightful staff. Nature walks each morning and river boats in the afternoon provided an entirely different animal experience - as we felt part of the landscape now. We walked through the animals environment and this ground level trek became our favourite adventure: warthogs and their litters feeding, antelopes, jackals, hyenas, elephants and of course hippo's. The guides were locals so they had thorough knowledge of this incredible, biodiverse environment. The delta is so full of life and a must do for any trip to Africa. We completed our trip in Cape Town staying at Seapoint and renting a car to travel around. In contrast to Johannesburg, Cape Town felt safe and welcoming. Driving is easy and the roads are readily navigable: highlights here were the climb up Lions Head (took us around 50 minutes to climb up - view is Wow!), Table Mountain cable, Cape of Good Hope and of course the Wine. Thank you Wayfairer - we are already deciding our next destination with you.
Kerry McEwan · Australia
We went to South Africa & Mauritius for 2 weeks.. It was a complicated tour which includes city tour, safari and beach holiday. Wayfairer organized everything greatly. We never faced with any delays or issues throughout the stay. They were always in touch to make sure we are doing well. Many thanks to everyone, special thanks to Eleanor & Ruth!
Ers · Switzerland
We've never used a tour operator for a holiday before but felt a bit intimidated about booking our first safari as we felt there was a mountain of inside knowledge we didn't have. Wayfairer gave us some absolutely essential advice about our options and this is the main reason we chose them above all the other operators. Then, once we had committed, not only did they understand exactly what we wanted and how to make it happen, but also provided unbelievable value for money while doing it. We had the experience of a lifetime and every detail was perfectly calibrated to the holiday we had asked for. I don't think you can get a better experience, with staff who are so knowledgeable and look after you so well, anywhere else. I would recommend Wayfairer to anyone and would definitely use them again in a heartbeat.
Danielle Cohen · United Kingdom
Practical answers
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 12 years and older.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
The Olive Exclusive - Luxury hotel in Windhoek (City) – Meals at Own Expense. Meals: Meals at Own Expense
This tour starts and ends in Windhoek
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
This tour is offered by Wayfairer Travel, 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 Wayfairer Travel.
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