Deserts, Wildlife, and Ancient Cultures

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 6:30 P.M. for departure to your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH).

After breakfast, depart Windhoek and head south to the Sesriem region—gateway to the towering dunes and dramatic desertscapes of Namib-Naukluft National Park. The drive itself is part of the adventure, with Namibia’s stark beauty unfolding across the arid plains. You’ll stop for a picnic lunch en route and enjoy regular breaks every two hours for bathrooms and snacks, conditions permitting. Upon arrival, check in at your feature campsite and enjoy some downtime. Later in the afternoon, venture out on a guided walk through Sesriem Canyon, a deep gorge carved by the Tsauchab River that offers a cool, shaded escape and fascinating rock formations to explore. Then close out the evening with a dinner prepared by the fire. For the hike, you’ll want to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and wear closed-toed walking or hiking shoes. For the long transfer, car sickness medication may be recommended.

• Sesriem Canyon Walk

  Later today, take a guided walk through Sesriem Canyon, a striking natural chasm that plunges up to 30 meters into the earth. The canyon offers a rare year-round water source in this arid region and features sedimentary rock layers, small caves, and unique geological formations. The terrain is uneven in parts, and the descent requires some light scrambling. While the walk is shared with other travelers, the narrow setting creates a peaceful atmosphere. The walk is beginner-friendly and covers approximately 0.6 miles (1km). Hiking sticks are not provided but can be helpful for balance.

  17:00· 60 min· Sesriem Canyon
• Transfer · Windhoek → Sesriem Canyon

  Take a private transfer to Sesriem, passing through remote and scenic landscapes preserved in their natural state as part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. About 30% of the route is paved, while the remainder consists of gravel and corrugated roads, which can affect travel time. Along the way, enjoy the chance to spot wildlife and take in the beauty of the surroundings. The journey can take up to 9 hours, with stops every 2–3 hours for stretching, bathroom breaks, and a picnic lunch en route.

  private · 540 min

Wake up early and prepare for a breathtaking experience among the soaring red dunes of Sossusvlei, one of Namibia’s most iconic landscapes. Begin your morning with a sunrise visit to Dune 45, named for its position 45 kilometers from the park gate. After taking in the sweeping desert views from the top, enjoy breakfast in the cool morning air. From there, continue deeper into the park to reach Deadvlei, a hauntingly beautiful clay pan dotted with the blackened skeletons of camel thorn trees. Surrounded by towering dunes—some of the tallest in the world—this surreal spot is a photographer’s dream. After exploring Deadvlei, return to camp for lunch and a well-earned afternoon of rest. In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner cooked at camp. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable closed-toed walking shoes and bring sunscreen, hat, and water.

• Dune 45 Climb

  Your first stop today is the dramatic Dune 45, a massive sand formation that rises over 550 feet (170m) into the air and is shaped by multidirectional winds. Known for its rich red color and star-dune structure, this is one of the most photographed dunes in the world. Though a popular site shared with other travelers, the early-morning serenity makes the experience special. The climb can be steep and strenuous in parts, especially as you near the top, so a hiking stick may be helpful for balance. The climb is generally considered a moderately challenging route, taking an average of about one hour to reach the top. Your guide will accompany the group so that you can take your time climbing up. You may also walk along the base if you prefer. Closed-toed walking or hiking shoes are highly recommended.

  07:00· 60 min· Dune 45
• Deadvlei Clay Pan

  Next, take a 20-30 minute transfer to explore Deadvlei, a stark white clay pan surrounded by rust-colored dunes and dotted with 600–700-year-old blackened camel thorn trees preserved by the desert climate. To reach the pan, take a short 20-minute walk through soft sand from the 4WD drop-off. As a shared experience, multiple groups may be exploring the area at the same time. The contrast of colors—white pan, black trees, orange dunes, and deep blue sky—makes Deadvlei one of the most visually stunning places in Namibia. A hiking stick is optional but useful on the sandy terrain.

  10:00· 60 min· Deadvlei
• Transfer · Sesriem Campsite → Sossusvlei

  Take a 1 hour private transfer from your camp to Dune 45 on paved roads for an early morning arrival. After breakfast and the dune climb, continue by bus to the 2WD parking area near Sossusvlei. From there, you will switch to 4WD vehicles and transfer 30 minutes to reach Deadvlei via sandy tracks.

  90 min
• Transfer · Deadvlei Salt Pan → Sesriem Campsite

  From the Deadvlei Clay Pan, take a 4WD private transfer back to the 2WD parking lot to board the bus back to camp.

  private · 90 min

After breakfast, continue your journey westward toward the Atlantic Ocean, making your way to the coastal town of Swakopmund. Along the way, stop at the quirky desert outpost of Solitaire, a curious settlement where rusted cars and cacti decorate the roadside and a visit to the bakery is a must—its apple pie has become a legend among travelers. As you continue toward the coast, pass through the stark beauty of Moon Valley and cross the Tropic of Capricorn. As you approach Swakopmund, you’ll make a stop at Walvis Bay, a lagoon area where flamingos gather in the thousands. Enjoy some time for lunch on your own in Walvis Bay and stretch your legs on an short walk around Walvis Bay before continuing onward to Swakopmund. Upon arrival in Swakopmund, head out on an orientation walk to get acquainted with the town. This evening will be at your leisure. For the long transfer, car sickness medication may be recommended.

• Solitaire Bakery Visit

  Stop at Solitaire, a one-of-a-kind desert station that offers fuel, snacks, and the famous apple pie from its roadside bakery. Surrounded by desert vistas and abandoned relics, this nostalgic pit stop is a photo-worthy moment and a sweet treat along your route.

  10:00· 30 min· Solitaire Bakery
• Walvis Bay Lagoon Walking Tour

  In Walvis Bay, join your guide on a short orientation walk around the Walvis Bay Lagoon, a shallow coastal inlet that attracts large flocks of flamingos and other migratory birds. This peaceful stop is great for wildlife photography and birdwatching, especially in the cooler seasons.

  · 45 min· Walvis Bay
• Swakopmund Orientation Walk

  Upon arrival into Swakopmund, you’ll be taken to the local activity center where you can book optional excursions for the following day. Optional excursions are available at an additional cost and range from sandboarding to dolphin cruises to kayaking and more! Your guide will be available to help you book activities or offer suggestions for how to make the most of the following day. Then your guide will take you on a short walk around Swakopmund. The walk includes helpful local insights as well as recommended eateries. Swakopmund is known for its striking contrast between the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, as well as its blend of German colonial design and African hospitality. You are free to explore on your own afterward.

  · 60 min
• Transfer · Sossusvlei → Swakopmund

  Today’s drive is via private vehicle and takes you across desert plains and salt roads as the Namib transitions into coastal landscapes. This part of Namibia is preserved in its natural state to maintain the beauty of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. While approximately 30% of the route is paved, the section from Sesriem to Walvis Bay consists of gravel and corrugated roads, which may affect travel time. You’ll make a stop in Solitaire approximately 2 hours into the journey, before continuing another 4 to 5 hours to Walvis Bay. The only paved portion is the final 25 mile (40km) stretch between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. Additional stops for bathrooms are made about every 2 hours.

  private · 420 min

Today is a full day at your leisure to explore Swakopmund, a colorful coastal town known for its colonial architecture and adrenaline-packed adventures. You might choose to stroll along the beach, browse the town’s open-air markets, or stop by the Swakopmund Museum to learn about Namibia’s natural and cultural history. Or, enjoy the optional excursion you booked yesterday, and if you haven’t booked one, shorter excursions may be available to be booked day of.

Leave the Atlantic coastline behind as you journey northeast into the remote and rugged region of Damaraland, home to some of Namibia’s most breathtaking and diverse landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass through a series of ever-changing terrains—from sand dunes and ocean views to jagged mountains and dry riverbeds. Enjoy a packed or picnic lunch en route before continuing to Brandberg, the highest mountain in Namibia. Upon arrival, set out on a scenic hike to the White Lady Rock Painting, an ancient petroglyph tucked into the mountain’s rocky ravines. Your local guide will share the cultural and geological significance of the area as you explore this iconic site. After your hike, return to camp to relax around the fire and take in the solitude of the desert. Today for the hike you’ll want to wear hiking boots, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and lots of water. For the long transfer, car sickness medication may be recommended.

• Brandberg Mountain Hike

  This afternoon, embark on a guided hike to see the famous White Lady Rock Painting, located on the slopes of Brandberg Mountain. At 8,442 feet (2,573m), Brandberg is the tallest mountain in Namibia and a place of deep cultural and natural significance. The roundtrip hike covers about 3.5 miles (5 km) and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Along the way, you’ll navigate rocky terrain and gentle inclines while your guide introduces you to the area’s plant life, wildlife, and rock art history. The painting itself is thought to be between 2,000 and 4,000 years old and remains one of the most well-preserved examples of ancient San culture. While this is a shared activity and other groups may be on the trail, the setting is expansive and peaceful. After the hike you’ll transfer 30 minute transfer to the campground. Distance: 3.5 miles / Elevation Gain: 500 feet / Duration 1.5 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

  14:00· 180 min· Brandberg Mountain
• Transfer · Swakopmund → Brandberg Mountain

  Today’s journey takes you inland via private transfer. Road conditions are rough as you depart Henties Bay. This road often sees construction and maintenance, so expect frequent stop-and-go delays due to the roadwork. Bathroom breaks will be offered every two hours, with a picnic or packed lunch provided along the way.

  private · 360 min

Begin the day with breakfast before venturing deeper into Damaraland, one of Namibia’s most visually stunning regions. Your morning will be spent exploring the Twyfelfontein Heritage Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 2,500 ancient rock engravings. As you walk through sandstone boulders, your guide will share the history and cultural significance of this outdoor gallery, created by Indigenous hunter-gatherers over thousands of years. In the afternoon, continue to the Living Museum of the Damara, a community-driven project dedicated to preserving the customs and knowledge of one of Namibia’s oldest cultures. Participate in a guided tour that includes traditional dancing, fire-making, herbal medicine, and more. After a rich day of cultural immersion, head to camp for a relaxing dinner under the desert sky. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and lots of water. For the long transfer, car sickness medication may be recommended.

• Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings

  Take a guided walk among the Twyfelfontein petroglyphs, some of which are estimated to be up to 10,000 years old. The short 1.5 mile path winds through large sandstone boulders etched with animal shapes, hunting scenes, and geometric designs.

  11:00· 60 min· Damaraland
• Living Museum of the Damaraland

  In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the traditional practices of the Damara people with a visit to their Living Museum near Twyfelfontein. This outdoor cultural center offers a hands-on look at historic skills and rituals, including traditional dancing, blacksmithing, fire-making, and herbal medicine. A short, guided walking tour will take you through demonstration stations where Damara community members share their stories and heritage.

  13:00· 60 min· Tweyfelfontein Living Museums of Damaraland
• Transfer · Brandberg Mountain → Damaraland

  Today’s private transfer takes you from your campsite to the Twyfelfontein and Damara Living Museum areas. The road conditions can be rough in places, with bathroom stops every two hours.

  private · 340 min

After breakfast, begin your journey to Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Along the way, stop to stretch your legs with a walk through the Petrified Forest. You’ll enjoy lunch on your own, with a stop at Outjo before continuing to your campsite. Upon arrival, spend a relaxed afternoon settling in and this evening, enjoy dinner by the fire. For the long transfer, car sickness medication may be recommended.

• Petrified Forest

  Enjoy a short walk through the Petrified Forest, a protected area where massive fossilized tree trunks—some up to 150 feet (45m) long—lie scattered across the desert floor. Formed around 280 million years ago, these trees were transported by ancient floods and preserved through mineralization. You'll also see Welwitschia Mirabilis, a plant species often called a “living fossil” due to its age and resilience. The 0.2 mile (300m) trail is flat and easy, making it accessible for most travelers.

  08:30· 45 min· Kunene Region
• Transfer · Damaraland → Etosha National Park

  Take a private transfer from Damaraland to the Etosha region. After about 2 hours you’ll make a stop at the Petrified Forest for a short walk of the protected area. The transfer to the Petrified Forest is along a gravel road, which can be very bumpy. Departing the Petrified Forest, the first hour will see rough road conditions, after which you will continue on paved roads until you reach your destination. Along the way, the group will stop in the town of Outjo, where the crew will stock up on supplies. You will also have time to buy lunch and any additional items you may need before continuing the final 55 miles / 90 km (approximately one hour) to camp.

  private · 360 min

Spend the day exploring Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s top wildlife destinations. The park’s vast salt pan, visible from space, draws an incredible variety of animals—over 110 mammal species including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and rhinos, as well as more than 340 bird species. You’ll travel in an open 4WD safari vehicle with a local guide, stopping at key waterholes known for excellent wildlife viewing. You’ll enjoy lunch during the safari, and in the evening, enjoy a camp dinner by the fire. Today you’ll want to bring a jacket, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and a dust mask for dusty roads.

• Full Day Game Drive

  Spend the day exploring Etosha National Park, known for its vast salt pan and exceptional wildlife viewing. Home to over 110 mammal species and 340 bird species, Etosha offers high chances of spotting elephants, lions, rhinos, and more. Traveling in open 4WD vehicles with a local guide, you'll visit key waterholes where animals gather. The drive is mostly seated and beginner-friendly, with bathroom stops arranged where possible. Early morning blankets are provided, but you’ll want to bring a jacket, hat, sunscreen, and a dust mask for dusty roads. This relaxed guided experience is ideal for photography and enjoying the landscape at a comfortable pace. Please note that your group will split into multiple smaller vehicles, each seating up to 9 people.

  06:00· 600 min· Etosha National Park

This morning, you’ll leave the Etosha region and head southeast toward Waterberg Plateau National Park, a towering sandstone massif that rises dramatically above the plains. Along the way, enjoy a packed lunch and soak in views of the changing landscapes—from bushveld to red cliffs and acacia-dotted savannah. Upon arrival, you’ll have the chance to either relax at camp, head out for an afternoon game drive (pre-registration required), or a self-guided hike. If you’re not joining the optional afternoon safari, you can set out on one of the many short, self-guided trails starting right from the Waterberg Camp reception. Here you’ll be provided with a map outlining routes like the easy Aloe Circle, the scenic Fig Tree Walk, and the more challenging Mountain Viewpoint Trail, which rewards you with sweeping vistas after some boulder scrambling. For those seeking a longer adventure, the Trail to the Top offers a three-hour hike with an elevation gain of around 650 feet (200m). All trails are easily accessible on foot from camp, allowing you to explore the plateau’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. With no elephants or lions in the area, Waterberg is a safe and serene environment for hiking, making it ideal for independent exploration. Wildlife sightings may include zebra, giraffe, oryx, and various antelope species, as well as elusive predators like leopards or hyenas. Birders will appreciate the diversity here too, including Verreaux’s eagles and Namibia’s only breeding colony of Cape vultures. Today you’ll want to wear hiking boots and bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lots of water. For the long transfer, car sickness medication may be recommended.

• Transfer · Etosha National Park → Waterberg

  Enjoy a private transfer through Namibia’s interior. Roads improve as you leave Etosha, but conditions may become rougher near Waterberg. Bathroom stops will be provided every two hours, and lunch will be picnic-style.

  private · 300 min

Today you will head back to Windhoek, but not before enjoying one last early morning game drive near the Waterberg Plateau. You'll enjoy coffee and cereal before departing on the game drive, and upon your return to camp you'll enjoy a full breakfast. Then pack up and begin your drive south toward Windhoek, Namibia’s capital. The landscape transitions again from rugged escarpments to open plains as you leave the Waterberg region behind. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy one final evening with your group. Tonight’s farewell dinner will be held at a top local restaurant—an opportunity to toast your adventures and share favorite moments from the trip. For the long transfer, car sickness medication may be recommended.

• Waterberg Plateau Morning Game Drive

  This morning begins with an early start to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife on a game drive. From the reception area, you’ll meet your local guide and set out to explore the diverse landscapes of Waterberg Plateau Park. Please note that your group may be split into separate vehicles as each vehicle can only seat 9-10 passengers. While predators are elusive here, the side-striped jackal is frequently seen, and with some luck, you might catch sight of a cheetah, leopard, brown hyena, or even the rare African wild dog. The park is especially rich in herbivores, with common sightings of zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, and a wide range of antelope—from the towering eland to the tiny Damara dik-dik. Oryx and the striking sable antelope are also regularly encountered. Birdwatchers will find plenty to enjoy as well, with over 200 recorded species, including Verreaux’s (black) eagle and Namibia’s only breeding colony of Cape vultures. Before departing this morning you will have some coffee and cereal. Then, after returning to camp from the game drive, you'll enjoy a full breakfast.

  06:00· 180 min· Waterberg
• Transfer · Otjiwarongo → Windhoek

  After the morning activity, take a private transfer to Windhoek. Roads may be rough as you leave the Waterberg region but improve significantly as you approach the capital. Stops will be made every two hours for restrooms and snacks.

  private · 240 min

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If you are departing today, we recommend flying out of Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH).