Duration
12-Day
Damaraland, Namibia
12-Day Self-Drive Northern Namibia Safari
Overview
The 12-Day Self-Drive Northern Namibia Safari offers an unforgettable journey through the country's most iconic destinations. Explore the striking red dunes of Sossusvlei, the charming coastal town of Swakopmund with its German colonial architecture and adventure activities, and the rugged landscapes of Damaraland, home to desert-adapted wildlife. Conclude with thrilling game drives in Etosha National Park, one of Africa's premier wildlife reserves.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Windhoek to Windhoek (Windhoek)
Via Sesriem (Town), Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes), Swakopmund (City)
Country & park
Namibia / Damaraland
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
6 years
Activities
game drives & nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Droombos Lodge - Luxury lodge in Windhoek (City) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals
Meals at Own Expense; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
ZAR
Rates
Rates Per Person
ZAR
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
R 99,240 ZAR
R 73,620 ZAR
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in South African Rand (ZAR).
This tour accepts children who are 6 years and older. Children under 13 receive a discount.
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
Sesriem (Town)
Day 3
Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes)
Day 4-5
Swakopmund (City)
Day 6
Damaraland
Day 7-9
Etosha NP
Day 10
Otjiwarongo (City)
Day 11
Windhoek (City)
End
Windhoek (Windhoek) (Day 12)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and guest houses.
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.
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
Game drives: open-sided 4x4 vehicle & self-drive
Getting around: self-drive
This operator can book your international flights
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Droombos Lodge
Luxury lodge in Windhoek (City) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals at Own Expense
Day 2
Sossusvlei Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Sesriem (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Sossusvlei Lodge
Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4-5
Cornerstone Guesthouse
Mid-range guest house in Swakopmund (City)
Day 4: Breakfast & Lunch Included; Day 5: Breakfast Included
Day 6
Twyfelfontein Country Lodge
Mid-range lodge inside Damaraland – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
Etosha Village Camp
Mid-range lodge just outside Etosha NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8-9
Onguma Bush Camp
Luxury lodge bordering Etosha NP without fences
Day 8: Breakfast & Dinner Included; Day 9: All Meals Included
Day 10
Frans Indongo Lodge
Mid-range lodge outside Waterberg Plateau – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Droombos Lodge
Luxury lodge in Windhoek (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Overnight in Windhoek
Upon arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to Windhoek, collect your rental car and receive a briefing on driving in Namibia. A representative will brief you on your itinerary. Afterward, you can explore Windhoek’s attractions, such as the historic Christuskirche, the Independence Memorial Museum with panoramic city views, and the tranquil Parliament Gardens. Windhoek also offers excellent dining options, including The Stellenbosch Wine Bar, Joe’s Beerhouse for hearty Namibian fare, and The Social for global fusion cuisine, among others. Luxury lodge located in Windhoek (City) Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Destination: Windhoek (City) Stay: Droombos Lodge Luxury lodge located in Windhoek (City) Meals: Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Day 2
Windhoek – Sesriem
At 8 am, you begin your journey southward through the picturesque cattle farming regions. The road takes you through Nauchas. Pause at the top of the Spreetshoogte Pass, one of Namibia’s most scenic viewpoints, to admire the breathtaking panorama of the desert stretching endlessly below. Descend the steep pass, soon arriving at Solitaire, a charming and remote rest stop known for its quirky character and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you can stretch your legs, grab a refreshment, or sample the famous apple crumble pie that has become a must-try treat for travellers in the area. From Solitaire, continue the final 80 m toward Sesriem, where our lodge awaits. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll have time to unwind and take in the tranquil desert environment, preparing for the adventures ahead. Mid-range lodge located in Sesriem (Town) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Sesriem (Town) Stay: Sossusvlei Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Sesriem (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 3
Adventure through Sossusvlei
Depart the lodge just before sunrise. Drive the 54km into the iconic Dune Sea, passing the famous Dune 45, and continue to the 4x4 parking area. Here, engage in 4x4 mode to navigate the final 5km of sandy terrain leading to Deadvlei. Marvel at the surreal landscape of 900-year-old fossilized trees set against a backdrop of bright white clay, deep orange dunes, and vibrant blue skies. Adventurers can challenge themselves by climbing up one of the towering dunes, reaching up to 355m, to enjoy sweeping views of the desert. Continue a short distance to Sossusvlei, where you can explore the shifting sands and, during the rainy season, witness the area transform into a lush oasis teeming with birdlife and wildlife. As the day warms, return to the lodge for a late lunch and some well-deserved relaxation. In the afternoon, take a leisurely visit to Sesriem Canyon, a fascinating natural wonder shaped by centuries of erosion, before winding down for the evening at your own pace. Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) Stay: Sossusvlei Lodge Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 4
Sesriem – Swakopmund
Departing at 8:00 am, you’ll have ample time to enjoy scenic stops along the way. Your first stop is Solitaire again, just 83km into the drive. Continuing on the C14, pause to admire iconic landmarks such as the Tropic of Capricorn, the Gaub Pass, and the Kuiseb Pass, each showcasing stunning desert vistas. Reach Walvis Bay by early afternoon and stop at the Walvis Bay Yacht Club to plan tomorrow’s activities. Consider options like a dolphin boat cruise or an adventurous 4x4 excursion to Sandwich Harbour. From Walvis Bay, a short 35km coastal drive brings you to Swakopmund, where you’ll settle into your guesthouse for a 2-night stay. This charming coastal town boasts excellent dining options, with the Jetty Restaurant being a standout choice. Mid-range guest house located in Swakopmund (City) Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Swakopmund (City) Stay: Cornerstone Guesthouse Mid-range guest house located in Swakopmund (City) Meals: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 5
Swakopmund adventures
Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure in Swakopmund. You can explore the craft market, admire the stunning exhibits at the Crystal Gallery, take a stroll along the historic Jetty, or visit the Aquarium. For a more laid-back day, relax on the safe and serene beaches or savour the town’s diverse culinary scene. For a touch of adventure, consider a dolphin cruise or a guided tour to Sandwich Harbour in nearby Walvis Bay. Meals are at your own expense, with excellent dining options such as The Brauhaus, The Tug, or Blue Grass providing a variety of delicious choices. Mid-range guest house located in Swakopmund (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Swakopmund (City) Stay: Cornerstone Guesthouse Mid-range guest house located in Swakopmund (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 6
Swakopmund – Damaraland
Our first stop is at the unique lichen fields just north of Henties Bay, where you can admire the delicate, slow-growing lichens thriving in this arid environment. Continuing up the Skeleton Coast, we visit the Cape Cross Seal Colony, home to thousands of Cape fur seals. As we move along the coast, we encounter the eerie yet intriguing Benguela Eagle shipwreck, a reminder of the many vessels claimed by the treacherous conditions of the Skeleton Coast. Nearby, the old oil rig stands as another haunting symbol of the region's history. Turning inland, we stop to see the Welwitschia mirabilis, an ancient plant unique to Namibia and Angola. By late afternoon, we arrive at our lodge in the heart of Damaraland, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s incredible discoveries. Mid-range lodge located inside Damaraland All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Damaraland Stay: Twyfelfontein Country Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Damaraland Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 7
Damaraland – Etosha National Park
After an early breakfast, we set off for the short drive to the world-renowned Twyfelfontein, home to the famous Bushman rock engravings. A local guide will take you through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore the largest concentration of petroglyphs in the world. After a leisurely walk through Twyfelfontein, we continue toward Etosha National Park, with a brief stop at the Petrified Forest along the way. We arrive at our lodge in the late afternoon, where you can unwind with a refreshing swim before enjoying an early dinner. Mid-range lodge located just outside Etosha NP All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Etosha National Park Stay: Etosha Village Camp Mid-range lodge located just outside Etosha NP Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 8
Etosha National Park
Enjoy a full day of exploration in Etosha National Park at your own pace, driving through the park from the Anderson Gate to the Von Lindequest Gate. Along the way, stop at various waterholes to observe the incredible wildlife that inhabits the park. Plan a leisurely lunch at the Halali Rest Camp, with meals at your own expense. In the late afternoon, head toward the Namutoni Rest Camp, known for its vibrant wildlife activity. From Namutoni, exit the park through Von Lindequest Gate and take a short drive to Onguma Bush Camp, where you can unwind and settle in for the evening. Luxury lodge bordering Etosha NP without fences Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Etosha National Park Stay: Onguma Bush Camp Luxury lodge bordering Etosha NP without fences Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 9
Etosha National Park
Today offers a full day of adventure with open-vehicle game drives led by a professional guide, giving you the opportunity to spot wildlife you may have missed the previous day. Your day starts with a sunrise departure into Etosha National Park. The guide will focus on the eastern side of the park, stopping at waterholes for memorable wildlife sightings. After lunch back at the lodge, you’ll have the afternoon to relax. If you’d like to explore the park further, you can either head out in your own vehicle or book an afternoon open-vehicle game drive or a property sunset drive (at your own expense). Luxury lodge bordering Etosha NP without fences All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Etosha National Park Stay: Onguma Bush Camp Luxury lodge bordering Etosha NP without fences Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 10
Etosha National Park – Otjiwarongo
This morning, the journey takes you along the B1, passing through the town of Tsumeb, renowned for its rich copper mines and extensive underground water reserves. Tsumeb is home to a fascinating museum that highlights the history of the mine, as well as exhibits featuring WWI cannons recovered from Otjokoto Lake. Continuing south towards Otjiwarongo, you'll arrive at your lodge by mid-afternoon, giving you time to relax or enjoy one of the activities offered at the lodge. Mid-range lodge located outside Waterberg Plateau All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Otjiwarongo (City) Stay: Frans Indongo Lodge Mid-range lodge located outside Waterberg Plateau Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 11
Otjiwarongo – Windhoek
Begin your day early with your bags packed and ready for an included guided Cheetah Run excursion. You’ll return to the lodge by 10:30 am, leaving plenty of time to continue your journey. Today, travel south, passing through the charming town of Otjiwarongo on your way to Okahandja. The smooth, tarred roads ensure a comfortable drive. Once in Okahandja, you’ll have some free time to explore the Craft Market and perhaps enjoy a refreshing drink at Dede’s Place. Lunch packs will be provided, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely meal along the way. You’ll arrive at your lodge in Windhoek by mid-afternoon, with plenty of time to relax and unwind before the evening. While dinner is not included, we highly recommend visiting Joe’s Beerhouse for your final culinary experience in Namibia. Luxury lodge located in Windhoek (City) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Windhoek (City) Stay: Droombos Lodge Luxury lodge located in Windhoek (City) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 12
Departure
Depending on your departure time, you will return your vehicle to the car hire office. Please remember to refuel the tank to avoid any extra charges. Once the handover is complete, the car hire company will arrange a transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive on time for your departure. 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. You'll be dropped off 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
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
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 book your international flights
Fly to/from Hosea Kutako Airport (WDH - Check price) near Windhoek
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
MoAfrika Tours
4.9 operator rating
4,785 reviews
MoAfrika Tours is best described by these four adjectives: new, honest, bold, and exciting. MoAfrika Tours has been in the tourism industry in South Africa for over 15 years. We are a youthful and driven group, and we are unwavering in our commitment to our core beliefs, principles, and service offerings. Our handpicked team has extensive experience in their respective fields.
Office In
South Africa
Size
50-100 employees (Founded in 2007)
Member Of
SATSA, SAYTC & TGCSA
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Botswana, 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
5.0/5Awesome!
Our first Big 5 Safari Tour was nothing short of incredible! From the very start, the excitement was unreal and it only got better with every moment out in the wild. Seeing lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo in their natural habitat was absolutely breathtaking. Our guide Martin was knowledgeable, passionate and made the whole experience even more special. It’s something we’ll never forget, truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! But we will repeat it as we still have to „hunt“ leopard 🐆 hehe
Irina, Maik & Alex · Germany
Knowledgeable
Martin took us through the reserve to locate the animals. He answered our questions and taught us so many things about the big 5
Dayo · Australia
Always a quick response, if there were any questions.
We had a very good time at the Dumela Tented Camp. The staff were very friendly and helpful. The guides on the game drives were really good. We had luck and could see many different animals.
Kerrin · Germany
Jo’burg and Soweto private tour
Really enjoyable and informative tour which also included an eye opening tour of the poorer parts of Soweto. Our guide Thomas was excellent , very knowledgable about a number of key historical events . A top quality tour and highly recommended .
Craig · United Kingdom
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 South African Rand (ZAR).
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?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Droombos Lodge - Luxury lodge in Windhoek (City) – Meals at Own Expense. Meals: Meals at Own Expense
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 is included
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by MoAfrika Tours, 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 MoAfrika Tours.
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