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12-Day Namibia Classic Safari

Etosha National Park, Namibia

12-Day Namibia Classic Safari

4.9 / 5 · 13 reviews Offered by Evolution Travel and Tours 12-Day

Overview

This is an unforgettable experience designed to give you a comprehensive safari around the main highlights of southern, central, and western Namibia. It is a great itinerary for families and friends alike, who might be contemplating a complete trip to Namibia. This experience leaves one with memories of beautiful landscapes, adventure, wildlife, and most importantly, unique and worthwhile cultural experiences.

Plan snapshot

Quick Facts

Tour details

Duration

12-Day

Route

Windhoek to Windhoek (City)

Via Kalahari Desert (Kalahari Region), Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes), Deadvlei (Sand Dunes)

Country & park

Namibia / Etosha National Park

Style

Mid-range safari

Group size

1-12 travelers

Starts

Any day if available

Minimum age

6 years

Activities

game drives, nature hikes/walks, boat trip & beach time

Accommodation

Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge - Mid-range lodge in Kalahari Region – Dinner Included

Meals

Dinner Included; Breakfast & Dinner Included

Pickup

Airport transfer included

Booking

Request quote

Currency

NAD

12-Day Namibia Classic Safari
Etosha National Park visual context for this itinerary.

Rates

Rates Per Person

NAD

Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026 N$150,700 NAD N$97,900 NAD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027 N$150,700 NAD N$97,900 NAD

Before booking

Important To Know

Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is not available to groups larger than 3 people.
This tour is offered in Namibian dollars (NAD).
This tour accepts children who are 6 years and older. Children under 13 receive a discount.

Quote flow

Request Guidance

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Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
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Route

Tour route map
country Namibia
Start Windhoek (Day 1)
Day 1 Kalahari Desert (Kalahari Region)
Day 2 Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes)
Day 3 Deadvlei (Sand Dunes)
Day 4-5 Swakopmund (City)
Day 6-7 Palmwag Concession (Damaraland)
Day 8-10 Etosha NP
Day 11 Okonjima NR
End Windhoek (City) (Day 12)

Tour Features

Mid-range tour

This mid-range tour uses lodges and hotels.

Private tour

This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.

Can start any day

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Cannot be customized

The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.

Suitable for solo travelers

Solo travelers can book this private tour.

6
Minimum age of 6 years

The minimum age for this tour is 6 years.

Activities & Transportation

Activities: game drives, nature hikes/walks, boat trip & beach time
Game drives: open-sided 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle
This operator can book your international flights
A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost

Accommodation & Meals

Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge

Day 1

Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge

Mid-range lodge in Kalahari Region – Dinner Included

Dinner Included

Camelthorn Kalahari LodgeCamelthorn Kalahari LodgeCamelthorn Kalahari Lodge
Sossusvlei Lodge

Day 2

Sossusvlei Lodge

Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) – Breakfast & Dinner Included

Breakfast & Dinner Included

Sossusvlei LodgeSossusvlei LodgeSossusvlei Lodge
Sossusvlei Lodge

Day 3

Sossusvlei Lodge

Mid-range lodge in Sesriem (Town) – Breakfast & Dinner Included

Breakfast & Dinner Included

Swakopmund Sands

Day 4-5

Swakopmund Sands

Mid-range hotel in Swakopmund (City) – Breakfast Included

Breakfast Included

Swakopmund SandsSwakopmund SandsSwakopmund Sands
Palmwag Lodge

Day 6-7

Palmwag Lodge

Mid-range lodge inside Palmwag Concession (Damaraland)

Day 6: All Meals Included; Day 7: Breakfast & Dinner Included

Palmwag LodgePalmwag LodgePalmwag Lodge
Okaukuejo Resort

Day 8-9

Okaukuejo Resort

Mid-range chalet inside Etosha NP – Breakfast & Dinner Included

Breakfast & Dinner Included

Okaukuejo ResortOkaukuejo ResortOkaukuejo Resort
Onguma Bush Camp

Day 10

Onguma Bush Camp

Luxury lodge bordering Etosha NP without fences – Breakfast & Dinner Included

Breakfast & Dinner Included

Onguma Bush CampOnguma Bush CampOnguma Bush Camp
Okonjima Plains Camp

Day 11

Okonjima Plains Camp

Luxury lodge inside Okonjima NR – Breakfast & Dinner Included

Breakfast & Dinner Included

Okonjima Plains CampOkonjima Plains CampOkonjima Plains Camp

Day 12

End of tour

No accommodation

(No accommodation)

Breakfast Included

Day By Day

Tour step

Arrival

A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Windhoek to Kalahari Desert - 282km (175miles) +/-3H30min

Day 1

Windhoek to Kalahari Desert - 282km (175miles) +/-3H30min

You'll begin your journey with a drive to the Kalahari this morning. You do not have a particularly long drive by Namibian standards to the south-eastern Kalahari area. You'll transit via a few small towns and settlements, with Rehoboth being directly south of Windhoek and a short stop for us. The Kalahari Desert is a vast semi-desert area in Southern Africa, spanning approximately 900,000 square kilometres (350,000 sq mi) and covering much of western Botswana, a significant portion of eastern Namibia, and some areas of South Africa. Upon arrival at our beautiful accommodation, we can take some time to admire the uniqueness and beauty of our lodge before a late afternoon sunset game drive. A wonderful dinner at our lodge will bring this first day to a close. Mid-range lodge located in Kalahari Region Dinner (Breakfast & lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Kalahari Desert (Namibia) Stay: Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Kalahari Region Meals: Dinner (Breakfast & lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Kalahari Desert to Sossusvlei Area - 311km (193miles) +/-5H25min

Day 2

Kalahari Desert to Sossusvlei Area - 311km (193miles) +/-5H25min

As today is a lengthy drive across country to yet another desert on the opposite spectrum of the western part of Namibia, you'll set off early today after your breakfast. You'll enjoy one of the most scenic drives, transiting through towns like Mariental and Maltahohe, as you get closer to the Namib Naukluft National Park. The Naukluft Park is one of the largest parks in Africa at over 49,000km² (19,000sq miles), a little larger than Switzerland to put things into better perspective. The park is home to various wildlife, but more specifically, the Hartmann Mountain zebra, which roam freely through the vast plains and mountains of this area, and other attractions include the desert-adapted vegetation of the area, like the Succulent Karoo, camel-thorn acacia, lichens, and many more. You'll reach your lodge in the late afternoon hours, but with enough time to relax and recover from the lengthy drive. A wonderful sunset and a buffet dinner are something to look forward to this evening. Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) Stay: Sossusvlei Lodge Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Sossusvlei and Deadvlei

Day 3

Sossusvlei and Deadvlei

A pre-dawn start is a must this morning in order to appreciate the wonders that this area has on offer. The Sossusvlei area offers visitors some of the most picturesque and indescribable landscapes in the world, with unbelievable colour contrasts at sunrise and after sunset, along with amazing photographic opportunities. Sossusvlei is the very end of the Tsauchab River, approximately 55km from the Atlantic Ocean, which on rare occasions turns into a true water-filled oasis after heavy rainfall. This phenomenon has not been evident for the last few years, as this area is predominantly bone-dry throughout the year, averaging around 20mm of rainfall per annum. You'll return to our lodge just before noon in order to enjoy some lunch and enjoy some pool time. Your late afternoon activity would see you visit the Sesriem Canyon, before enjoying another scrumptious dinner at your lodge. Mid-range lodge located in Sesriem (Town) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Deadvlei (Sand Dunes) Stay: Sossusvlei Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Sesriem (Town) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Sossusvlei Area to Swakopmund - 343km (213miles) +/-4H30min

Day 4

Sossusvlei Area to Swakopmund - 343km (213miles) +/-4H30min

You'll leave the Sossusvlei area early enough to enjoy a cool scenic drive to the coastal town of Swakopmund along the mighty Atlantic Ocean as we get closer. The Tropic of Capricorn, which forms the circle of the latitude that contains the subsolar point on the December solstice, is on our route. Here, you will stop for a picture or two. You'll also transit via the Gaub and Kuiseb Mountain passes, which warrant short stops, as the geology around these areas is extraordinary. Upon your arrival in Swakopmund. After a brief lunch, you'll embark on an afternoon walking tour to see the town’s monuments, and acquaint yourself with a few optional activities for the next day, which are on offer. Swakopmund is situated amidst dunes and desert close to the mouth of the Swakop River, and during the colonial period, Swakopmund was an important hub, although the conditions for a deep-sea port were not favourable here. You'll have a relaxed late afternoon, before dinner at a local restaurant. Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Swakopmund (City) Stay: Swakopmund Sands Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Swakopmund

Day 5

Swakopmund

The town of Swakopmund is known for its variety of activities that it offers to travellers and is often referred to as the adventure capital of Namibia. We have taken the liberty of arranging a dolphin cruise for you this morning on the catamaran. This experience affords you a chance to learn about the marine life on the Namibian Atlantic coast and the possibility of seeing the various species of dolphin we have in Namibia, as well as whales, seals, pelicans and much more. Upon your return from Walvis Bay around noon, your afternoon will be a relaxed one. You will have a chance to visit some curio shops, the Swakopmund museum or just wander the lively markets of this unique city. Dinner this night will be without your guide at another lovely seaside restaurant booked for you. Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Swakopmund (City) Stay: Swakopmund Sands Mid-range hotel located in Swakopmund (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Swakopmund to Palmwag - 440km (273miles) +/-5H50min

Day 6

Swakopmund to Palmwag - 440km (273miles) +/-5H50min

You'll take off from Swakopmund very early as you have a lengthy drive that takes you past the small former mining town of Uis en route to the Palmwag rhino concession. On your way, you'll pass the Brandberg mountain, known to be the highest mountain in Namibia at over 2,500m (over 8,400ft) above sea level. You will also transit through the Twyfelfontein area of Damaraland, which is home to a world heritage site and an optional stopover for those who are interested in seeing the iconic rock engravings made by the San people, of which some date back to over 6000 years. Your late afternoon arrival at the Palmwag area warrants a cold beverage at our beautiful lodge! The Palmwag concession also pays homage to the desert-adapted elephants of Namibia. You will have dinner at your lodge and attend to other organisational matters. Mid-range lodge located inside Palmwag Concession (Damaraland) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Palmwag (Damaraland) Stay: Palmwag Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Palmwag Concession (Damaraland) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Palmwag

Day 7

Palmwag

The Palmwag Concession is an area covering over 400,000 hectares (988,400 Acres) of conservation land, and is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebra, springbok, desert-adapted elephants and much more. The reserve is especially known for providing habitat for the largest population of south-western black rhinos in Africa, under the protection of the organisation known as the Save the Rhino Trust. Palmwag Concession is a vast conservation area with an abundance of wildlife. Palmwag collaborates with neighbouring conservancies, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, and Save the Rhino Trust to safeguard this rich wild heritage. You'll have a half-day rhino tracking activity booked for them today. You’ll have your last dinner at Palmwag before your lengthy drive to the Etosha National Park the next day. Mid-range lodge located inside Palmwag Concession (Damaraland) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Palmwag (Damaraland) Stay: Palmwag Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Palmwag Concession (Damaraland) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Palmwag to Etosha National Park - 298km (185miles) +/-3H55min

Day 8

Palmwag to Etosha National Park - 298km (185miles) +/-3H55min

This day would require yet another early departure, as we are anxious to reach the famous Etosha National Park and start your wildlife viewing adventure. One of Namibia’s most exceptional adventures is to visit the Etosha National Park. Your journey today takes you to this great game sanctuary through some of the lands belonging to the iconic Himba tribe, as we plan to arrive around noon and just in time for some lunch before going off on your first game drive inside this vast park with our own vehicle. You do not head back to your accommodation until the late afternoon. A beautiful African sunset and a great dinner are on the cards for this evening from your beautiful lodge. Mid-range chalet located inside Etosha NP Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Etosha National Park Stay: Okaukuejo Resort Mid-range chalet located inside Etosha NP Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Etosha National Park

Day 9

Etosha National Park

Etosha is a rather special National Park, with a character quite different from other famous animal reserves in Africa. It doesn't have the rolling landscapes of the Masai Mara, nor the majestic riverine forests of the Zambezi Valley Parks, such as Mana Pools. What Etosha does have is an unrelenting, harsh, and rugged beauty all on its own, endless flat horizons, and overwhelming, dramatic skyscapes. The Etosha National Park is famous for African elephant, lion, leopard, hyena, rhino, and other antelope sightings, offering a very pleasant experience, especially to first-time visitors in the park. The waterholes are clearly marked, and the maps of the park are very clear. Your route also takes you to the Etosha Pan lookout point, to see the vastness of the great white open space. You'll head out early in an open-air game/safari vehicle and get back to the lodge by late in the afternoon, and just in time for a nice buffet dinner. Mid-range chalet located inside Etosha NP Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Etosha National Park Stay: Okaukuejo Resort Mid-range chalet located inside Etosha NP Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Etosha National Park/Onguma Game Reserve

Day 10

Etosha National Park/Onguma Game Reserve

Your safari in the Etosha National Park continues and gives you another full day to discover the north-eastern end of this vast park, maximizing your chances of seeing more wildlife. This park, which was first proclaimed a national park in 1907, has significantly decreased in size since then, and your guide will adequately familiarize you with the different areas of the park. You'll look for more wildlife as well as different bird species. After a full day of game driving through the park, you'll have your last evening in the area just outside the northeastern gate of the Etosha National Park, at the Onguma Game Reserve. Luxury lodge bordering Etosha NP without fences Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Etosha National Park Stay: Onguma Bush Camp Luxury lodge bordering Etosha NP without fences Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Onguma Game Reserve to Okonjima - 360km (224miles) +/-4H05min

Day 11

Onguma Game Reserve to Okonjima - 360km (224miles) +/-4H05min

This morning, you are traveling on the main road known as the B1 to the Okonjima Game Reserve, the home of the AfriCat Foundation, responsible for the rehabilitation of endangered large cats. Plan to leave quite early this morning from the Onguma Game Reserve to arrive in time for an afternoon drive to see the cheetah and learn about these large cats at the AfriCat Foundation, and why they are indeed special to Namibia. Your final night at this magical place will definitely leave our travellers with food for thought concerning the conservation work that these very extraordinary men and women do here. You’ll enjoy your last dinner of this splendid tour together at the Okonjima Game Reserve. Luxury lodge located inside Okonjima NR Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Okonjima Private Nature Reserve Stay: Okonjima Plains Camp Luxury lodge located inside Okonjima NR Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Okonjima to Windhoek - 223km (139miles) +/-2H20min

Day 12

Okonjima to Windhoek - 223km (139miles) +/-2H20min

You have come to the end of your tour and are heading south on the B1 road to the capital city of Windhoek, but transiting via Okahandja. Here, you will take time to stop, as this town is home to Namibia’s largest wood carving and craft market. Your arrival in Windhoek will be in the late afternoon. This is a great chance to see the African sunset from the city. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Windhoek (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Tour step

End of tour

Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. A transfer back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.

Included

Park fees (For non-residents)

All activities (Unless labeled as optional)

All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)

A professional driver/guide

All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Drinking water (On all days)

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)

Getting There

This tour starts and ends in Windhoek
This operator can book your international flights
Fly to/from Hosea Kutako Airport (WDH - Check price) near Windhoek
A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Evolution Travel and Tours
Evolution Travel and Tours logo

Offered by

Evolution Travel and Tours

4.9 operator rating 13 reviews

Evolution Travel and Tours is a tour operating company specialising in safaris in and around Namibia and Southern Africa. It's name was inspired by the owner's very idea of changing conventional travelling and touring in Southern Africa, thus the company aims to evolve, enhance and revolutionize as well as simplify tours for our clients. Our business caters mainly to international travelers, university groups, NGO's and volunteers. We provide group and individual tours in Southern Africa.

Office In

Namibia

Size

5-10 employees (Founded in 2016)

Member Of

NTB, TASA & TOSCO

Tour Types

Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day

Destinations

Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe

Traveler feedback

Reviews

4.90 average

Overall

5.0/5

Communication

5.0/5

Accuracy

5.0/5

Value

5.0/5

Safety clarity

5.0/5

Cultural value

5.0/5
Verified

Superb and professional service, making a Namibian experience truly amazing!

The tour operator is a consummate professional. All the arrangements for housing, travel, logistics, etc. were handled with an attention to detail. Because of the care given to the careful planning of the tour, we had no concerns about anything except enjoying the splendid scenery and wildlife of Namibia. A major bonus is that the tour operator is so knowledgable about the history, culture and wildlife of Namibia. It was very enjoyable to experience this tour with him. If you want to have an incredible, mountain-top experience in Namibia, I encourage you to make arrangments with Evolution Travel and Tours.

Harvey Leuning · United States

Verified

Excellent service

Very knowledgeable Excellent service. Very personable.

Gina · United States

Verified

My tour of Namibia was fun, professional, deeply informative, relaxing, and so inspiring!

I had such a good time traveling in Namibia with Scoby and Evolution Travel and Tours. The level of care and knowledge and professionalism he exemplifies is unparalleled. I felt like our tour gave us a rich and honest experience of the land, wildlife, history, and society of the places we visited.

Tia · United States

Verified

Knowledgeable guide for unforgettable trip to Namib Naukluft Park, Sossusvlei, Sesriem

Good communication leading up to travel and the trip was certainly something that exceeded my expectations! The whole area is stunningly beautiful, and Scobie was a very knowledgeable guide and willing to answer all my questions throughout the journey (I had a lot). Lots of stops on the way to view wildlife and enjoy the landscapes. Climbing Big Daddy early in the morning was certainly a highlight and well worth it! Reuben is an excellent cook, and I was very happy with the camping experience.

Jessica · United States

Practical answers

Tour FAQs

8 answers

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 who are 6 years and older. Children under 13 receive a discount.

Can this tour start on my preferred date?

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Can the itinerary be customized?

The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.

Where do travelers stay during this tour?

Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge - Mid-range lodge in Kalahari Region – Dinner Included. Meals: Dinner Included

Where does this tour start and end?

This tour starts and ends in Windhoek

Are airport transfers included?

A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost

Operator policy

Terms and Conditions

Booking terms

Disclaimer

This tour is offered by Evolution Travel and Tours, not SafariBookings.

This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.

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 Evolution Travel and Tours.

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Duration8-Day From$2,915 pp (USD) ModeQuote
Custom quote route Verified provider Cultural notes

From

$2,915 pp (USD)

From

$97,900.00