Classic Namibia Self Drive

After landing in Johannesburg this morning, you’ll connect with a short onward flight to Windhoek, where you'll be met and transferred to your hotel in the suburbs. This afternoon, your 4WD hire car will be delivered and you’ll be briefed on everything you need to know about the car, as well as the routes to take and tips for driving in Namibia. This evening, try out one of the city’s local institutions – the lively Joe's Beerhouse or head to ‘NICE’ if you fancy a bit of a fancier dinner. 

Today, your adventure begins as you set off south for the Namib Desert, a must on any Namibia itinerary. The five-hour drive takes you through spectacular desert and mountain scenery. When you arrive, you'll check into your scenic lodge close to the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei, where you’ll spend the next two nights.

It’s worth setting your alarm early today to give you the best light (and the coolest temperatures) to explore the striking landscapes of Sossusvlei. Highlights include climbing the massive Dune 45, wandering the surreal white clay pan of Dead Vlei, and visiting Sesriem Canyon. This is an iconic region of Namibia for a reason, so don't forget your camera!

Today, you’ll drive north to the west coast of Namibia, passing through stark, remote desert scenery until you arrive at the oasis of Swakopmund. In this charming German colonial town, you'll stay for two nights within walking distance of the centre. On one of your evenings, you’ll definitely want to book a table at The Tug restaurant for some fresh seafood. It’s one of our favourites.

Today, you can choose from a selection of superb excursions. Kayak with seals at Pelican Point, take a 4WD tour to the dramatic dunes of Sandwich Harbour, or simply explore Swakopmund at your own pace.

Leave the coast behind today as you hop in the car and head inland into the rugged beauty of Damaraland. The region is best known for its dramatic rock formations, ancient valleys and open skies. Your lodge offers sweeping, unforgettable views, and plenty of brilliant spots for a sundowner.

You'll spend the day exploring this fascinating region today. Visit the UNESCO-listed rock engravings at Twyfelfontein, or join a guided nature drive in search of Namibia’s unique desert-adapted elephants and other wildlife. As always, chat to us about what would most interest you and we'll be sure to weave the experiences into your holiday itinerary.

The next few days are all about the wildlife. You’ll drive north to Etosha National Park, one of the largest national parks in Africa, covering an area of approximately 22,270 square kilometres. Entering through the southern gate, your accommodation tonight offers great game viewing right from the camp waterhole – perfect for a relaxed first safari experience. If you’ve enjoyed the desert-adapted wildlife so far, you’re in for a real treat here.

Today is a special day, as you’ll drive eastwards across the national park under your own steam and at your own pace. You can stop at water holes along the way, enjoy lunch and look out for elephant, rhino, cheetah, giraffe and antelope. Your base for the next two nights is just outside the eastern gate.

Explore the eastern part of the park, with its wide salt pan views and excellent concentration of game. You might see large herds of zebra and wildebeest here, along with plenty of excellent birdlife.

Today's drive takes you south to the beautiful Waterberg Plateau. One of Namibia's most scenic areas, the Plateau was declared a nature reserve in 1972 and serves as a sanctuary for endangered species like black and white rhino and roan and sable antelopes. It also boasts more than 200 bird species, including the impressive Cape vultures. You can explore the area either on foot or by car, whatever you’d prefer.

Your final drive will take around three and a half hours back to Windhoek Airport. Say goodbye to your trust 4WD, then board a short flight to Johannesburg to connect with your overnight flight home.