NAMIBIA - Scheduled Guided
Tours & Safaris Scheduled
Guided Camping Tours Overview
12
Day - Dunes & & Delta 4x4 Adventure Safari
TOUR INFORMATION:
TOUR CODE:
NSC016
Safari Type:
Scheduled Guided Tour
(Guaranteed Departure Dates)
Style:
Camping (participation camping)
Duration:
12 Days / 11 Nights
Departure Date:
Mondays (every 2nd week - see departure dates below)
Departure Location:
Windhoek - Namibia
Tour Ends:
Livingstone - Zambia
Countries Visited:
NAMIBIA - BOTSWANA - ZAMBIA
This trip finishes in Victoria Falls but you have the option to return
to Windhoek
with your guide.
Option of upgrading to accommodation in Sesriem, Okaukuejo and Onguma but
depends on availability.
Routing Highlights:
Windhoek - Namib Naukluft Park – Sesriem Canyon – Sossusvlei – Swakopmund – Windhoek
– Etosha National Park – Bushmanland – Okavango Delta, Pan Handle, Botswana –
Susuwe - Bwabwata National Park - Caprivi, Namibia – Livingstone, Zambia
A safari of contrast - from the dry desert landscapes of the Namib and the
huge red sand dunes of Sossusvlei, the wildlife kingdom of Etosha National Park and
tracking with a bushman, to the tranquillity of the Okavango Delta finishing
at Livingstone close to the mighty Victoria Falls, this trip offers it all.
This safari is a combination of the (NSC005) 4 day Sossusvlei & Swakopmund 4x4
Adventure Safari & the (NSC010) 8 day Bushman and Delta 4x4 Adventure Safari |
click the map to enlarge ...
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NOTES:
This Group Safari itinerary can easily be converted
into a Private Safari
or a Self Drive Tour
Airport transfers and pre & post safari accommodation is not included but can be arranged on
request.
We also offer regional flights and coach
bookings.
Please contact us for advice & information on how to reach the departure point
of
this safari and how to continue afterwards…
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ITINERARY:
Day 1
Windhoek - Namib Naukluft Park
You will be picked up from your accommodation on the day of departure
within the city limits. You must be ready at least 45 minutes prior to your
safari departure. The tour will depart Windhoek around 08:30. Driving
through the rugged Khomas Hochland mountain range we then descend to the
desert floor via the Gamsberg Pass, an imposing flat topped mountain and one
of the highest points in Namibia, which provides a dramatic back drop for our
roadside lunch. After a short stop at Solitaire, we arrive at camp mid
afternoon and set up your tents underneath the ancient camel thorn trees then
enjoy a late afternoon walk across the desert to Elim’s Dune on the edge of
the famous sand dune sea with views across to the nearby mountains. We return
to camp just after sunset to enjoy our dinner prepared by guide and camp
assistant.
OPTION TO UPGRADE ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation: Overnight Camping (LD)
Day 2
Namib Naukluft Park – Sesriem - Sossusvlei
A pre-dawn departure from our campsite to drive to Sossusvlei, a 65kms
drive in the darkness witnessing first light and shadows on the sand dunes
before arriving at the heart of the famous sand dune sea of Namibia. We watch
the sunrise from this spectacular and unique area (dependent on opening time
of inner park gate). We head up a dune close to Sossusvlei then walk to Dead
Vlei with its large expanse of bleached cracked clay and skeletal camel thorn
trees scattered around, contrasting with a backdrop of huge orange-red dunes
that make for superb photographic opportunities. We enjoy a mid morning brunch
after exploring this dramatic and desolate landscape before returning to camp
for a swim and this afternoon explore nearby Sesriem Canyon on foot. Enjoy
another spectacular sunset surrounded by this colourful desert and sleep under
the bright stars of the southern hemisphere. Overnight camping and dinner
prepared by guide and camp assistant.
OPTION TO UPGRADE ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation: Overnight Camping (BLD)
Day 3
Swakopmund
Early morning departure from camp stopping at the one horse town of
Solitaire before continuing through the desert with its endless views across
the pastel-coloured gravel plains to the port town of Walvis Bay. We visit the
lagoon, which is a protected RAMSAR wetland site, where we may see the many
species of birds including Greater and Lesser Flamingos, pelicans, avocets,
plovers, the endemic Damara Tern as well as a visit to the nearby salt farm.
We continue onto the quaint town of Swakopmund, full of historic buildings and
where your guide will assist those wishing to book optional adventure
activities such as sand boarding, quad biking, scenic flights, parachuting,
dolphin cruises to name but a few, which you have time for this afternoon and
tomorrow morning. Overnight in comfortable twin/double rooms with en-suite
bathroom close to the town centre. Laundry facilities are available here. This
evening’s meal is a group dinner in a restaurant at client’s own expense
Accommodation: Dunedin Star Guesthouse (BL)
Day 4
Windhoek
After breakfast you have the morning at leisure to enjoy the town and have
a coffee and cake in one of the many cafes or participate in one of the many
optional activities such as sand boarding or a dolphin cruise. After lunch at
your accommodation your vehicle will return to Windhoek via the Okahandja
craft market. Overnight accommodation included on a twin share basis.
Evening meal at own expense
Accommodation: Chameleon Guesthouse (subject to availability) (BL)
Day 5
Etosha National Park
We depart from Windhoek around 8h00am. After stopping briefly at
Otjiwarongo for fresh supplies we have lunch at the entrance to Etosha
National Park, one of the best game reserves in Africa. We game drive to camp
and if time permits game drive before sunset. Overnight camping. Dinner
prepared by the Guide and Apprentice Guide and evening is spent around the
campfire or at the floodlit waterhole by the camp, which is often frequented
by the endangered black rhino. (BLD)
OPTION TO UPGRADE ACCOMMODATION
Accommodated: Rest Camp in Etosha National Park (BLD)
Day 6
Etosha National Park
Early morning and late afternoon game drives seeking the many species of
animals found in this huge park including elephant, lion, leopard, the
endangered cheetah, black and white rhino, and giraffe as well as many species
of antelope and over 340 species of bird, a wildlife enthusiasts dream. We
spend the hottest part of the day at camp either by the waterhole or the
swimming pool before heading to Etosha Pan, one of the translations meaning
“Great, White Place” to marvel at the shimmering mirages and distant horizons.
Overnight camping. Dinner prepared by guide and camp assistant and evening
spent around the campfire.
OPTION TO UPGRADE ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation: Onguma Camp (BLD)
Day 7
Bushmanland
After breakfast we travel via Lake Otjikoto to Tsumeb for fresh supplies. A
short lunch is taken at Hoba Meteorite – the largest meteorite in the world
then we continue through to Grootfontein to refuel before entering the
Kalahari. We arrive at our camp mid afternoon and walk with a San tracker to
collect bush foods and learn how the traditional Bushmen collect and gather
food – generally a fascinating experience for westerners where we are able to
ask questions of how they survive in today’s modern world. This evening we
join the local community around the campfire for singing and dancing. Dinner
prepared by guide and camp assistant
Accommodation: Overnight Camping (BLD)
Day 8
Okavango Delta, Pan Handle - Botswana
An early morning departure from camp takes us into the Kalahari basin via
Tsumkwe and into our neighbouring country, Botswana. The sandy track takes us
through the heart of the Kalahari to the panhandle section of the Okavango
Delta. The last 13kms are 4x4 only and some pushing maybe required, but the
jewel of the river edge awaits us at the end of the day and this wetland lies
like an oasis in an otherwise harsh environment. Overnight camping and evening
meal prepared by the guide and camp assistant.
Accommodation: Guma Lagoon Camp (BLD)
Day 9
Okavango Delta, Pan Handle - Botswana
We take only what we need – each of our guests can take only 1 small day
pack and depart early morning initially in a motor boat and then in a mokoro
(dug out canoe), we relax while our polers push us through this beautiful and
unique area enjoying the tranquillity of the delta until we reach an island
camp, our destination for the night. We’ll have the opportunity to game walk
and learn about this fragile and unique ecosystem. Overnight bush camping
under a million stars with no facilities and evening meal prepared by the
guide and camp assistant.
Accommodation: Overnight Camping (BLD)
Day 10
Okavango Delta, Pan Handle - Botswana
We enjoy more game walks and mokoro rides before we return to the luxury
of our camp early afternoon for hot showers and toilets. Overnight camping
close to the river and evening meal prepared by the guide and camp assistant
Accommodation: Overnight Camping (BLD)
Day 11
Susuwe - Bwabwata National Park - Caprivi, Namibia
An early morning start to cross the border back into Namibia and on to
Mahango Game Reserve. This little jewel of a game reserve is home to many
unusual species such as roan and sable antelope, buffalo, large herds of
elephant, hippo and many aquatic birds not found in many areas of Namibia. We
leave the park and have lunch overlooking Popa Falls before continuing through
the Caprivi Strip to Susuwe National Park. This is a wild park where we camp
without fences and spend an exhilarating night listening to the night sounds
of the animals and maybe get the chance to enjoy “close up” encounters, please
note that there are no fences and that wild animals such as hyena may wander
through camp. Overnight camping and evening meal prepared by the guide and
camp assistant
Accommodation: Overnight Camping (BLD)
Day 12
Livingstone, Zambia
Breakfast and short game drive before heading through to Katima Mulilo.
This busy and bustling town is the last frontier of Namibia and we glimpse our
first sight of the mighty Zambezi River. We cross the border into Zambia and
have lunch at a scenic location along the roadside. We arrive at Livingstone
mid afternoon and we drop you at your accommodation. (B,L)
Approx total distance 3200kms
DEPARTURE DATES:
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2007 |
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2008 |
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Nov |
Dec |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
June |
July |
Aug |
Sept |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
| 05 |
03 |
14 |
11 |
10 |
07 |
05 |
02 |
14 |
11 |
08 |
06 |
03 |
01 |
| 19 |
17 |
28 |
25 |
24 |
21 |
19 |
16 |
28 |
25 |
22 |
20 |
17 |
15 |
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31 |
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30 |
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29 |
The itinerary above is a guideline only and whilst we try to adhere to it
there may be circumstances when it may change – for example weather and/or
road conditions, seasonal daylight hours etc. Overnight stops on occasion may
be altered from those indicated above.
IMPORTANT - Whilst visiting villages and local communities we cannot guarantee
activities on offer, it often depends on how they feel on the day, however, it
will give you the opportunity to meet and experience life in Namibia in
today’s society.
TOUR NOTES:
LOCAL PAYMENTS –
N$7150/PERSON + N$1320 local payment in cash (South African Rand or Namibia
Dollars ONLY payable on morning of safari departure) + US$240/person/cash for
Delta package
VISA REQUIREMENTS – Some nationalities require visas for Namibia and
Botswana. Please check with your agent or our office when booking your safari
to check if these requirements apply to you.
ZAMBIAN VISAS – can be obtained through pre-booking an accommodation
package in Livingstone. Please check with our safari office for more
information. Should you book your own accommodation in Livingstone directly,
you may be required to pay for a Zambian visa on arrival at the Zambian
border. Please note this is a service that is offered but cannot always be
guaranteed.
The Vehicles – 4x4 camping safaris
Our Safaris use 4x4 custom built Toyota Land Cruisers and a VW Minibus.
All Toyota Land Cruisers are 9-seater vehicle with comfortable individual
bucket seats fitted with seat belts for your safety. All our vehicles have a
cool box on board with ice (when available) for your own drinks and is
accessible whilst the vehicle is travelling. We use custom built off-road
trailers to carry your luggage and other equipment required for the duration
of your safari.
The camping equipment
We are using two types of tents on our safaris depending on the season you
want to travel:
During the wet season which normally starts from November and ends in April,
we are using canvas tents, dome type, very easy to put up, spacious (250cm x
250cm x 200cm) and waterproof.
During the dry season May through to end October we use mosquito netted dome
tents (210cm x 210cm x190cm) with 60cm high canvas from the floor for your
privacy and comfort. These tents are perfect for sleeping under starry African
skies safe from creepy crawlies.
We also provide 6cm thick high density mattresses and a little pillow for your
comfort.
Our scheduled safaris are conducted on the basis of limited participation,
which means you are only required to erect and dismantle your tent. All other
camp chores will be dealt with your guide and apprentice guide.
All camping equipment is supplied EXCEPT sleeping bags. These can be hired
from us whilst you are on safari. The tents are 2 man dome tents with full
mosquito netting with flysheet and we supply 6cm thick high density foam
mattresses.
On safari we supply three meals per day (except for evening meals in
Swakopmund and on your first and last days). All other snacks and drinks must
be supplied by you.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
is not charged on this safari. If you single and travelling alone we ask
you to share with another single traveller of the same sex. If there is no
other single traveller of the same sex you will not have to share.
TAP WATER
is safe to drink almost everywhere in Namibia. Whilst on safari your guide
will advise when the drinking water is not safe, alternatively you can buy
bottled water at your own expense.
HEALTH –
Malaria does occur in parts of Namibia, Botswana and Zambia. Please
consult your physician prior to leaving home or email us for more information.
Your physician may also recommend other injections for your travel and advice
should be sought.
GENERAL NOTES:
PASSPORTS
must be carried with you at all times whilst on safari and in the vehicle.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your safari
finishes/you leaving the country. You may not be allowed into Namibia if your
passport does not have the required 6 months; we cannot accept any
responsibility or refund on a safari in this scenario.
CURRENCY –
The Namibian Dollar (N$) is tied permanently 1-1 to the South African Rand
(SAR). SAR, notes and coins are legal tender in Namibia. Credit cards are
widely accepted at ATM’s. Traveller’s cheques can be changed only in major
towns but it is advisable to carry a limited amount of cash with you.
PERSONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE
is not included but is compulsory when travelling on any safari. Travel insurance is for your own
protection and we consider it to be an essential part of modern international
travel. Please consult your travel agent prior to leaving home or contact us.
VISA REQUIREMENTS –
Visas are your own responsibility; persons arriving without the relevant
visa for their safari will not be refunded in this scenario.
Our
safaris are merely suggested itineraries and therefore can be
tailor-made
to suit your specific needs:
- Routes can be amended
according to your preference
- Accommodation can be
changed to suit your style and budget
- Accommodation meal
basis can be booked according
to your requirements
- Extra nights can be added
depending on your arrival and departure flight times and the
pace that you want to travel
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