9 Days / 8 Nights - Northern Namibia Tour

Routing Highlights: Windhoek – Okonjima, AFRICAT Foundation – Etosha National Park – Damaraland – Skeleton Coast National Park - Swakopmund - Windhoek Tour Information: Departure Date:                 Any date of your choice Departure Location:         Windhoek – Airport or City Tour Ends:                          Windhoek – Airport or City Car Rental: The type of vehicle rented will depend on your group size and amount of luggage and personal preference.

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Tour Summary:

Itinerary:

Day 1
Otjiwarongo – Okonjima – AFRICAT FOUNDATION
On arrival at the Windhoek Airport you will be met by a company representative who will present you with your accommodation vouchers and assist you with the collection of your rental vehicle. Continue towards the capital city, Windhoek.

Windhoek is often described as a city with a “continental” atmosphere due to its architecture (historical buildings dating back to the German colonial rule), cuisine, culture, dress and educational institutions. Windhoek portrays the colour, sounds and tempo of a modern African city with its displays of African drums and woodcarvings on the pavements, which contrast with the elegant shops offering sophisticated Swakara garments and Namibian gemstones. Sidewalk cafes offering Namibian style breakfasts (Frühschoppen) which can be enjoyed with a glass of sparkling wine or locally brewed draught beer. In addition to steak houses and coffee bars serving snacks, the city has a wide range of a la carte restaurants offering German, French, Taiwanese, Portuguese, Italian, African and Chinese cuisine.

Departing from Windhoek continue in a northerly direction towards the central Namibian towns of Okahandja and Otjiwarongo. Okahandja is one of Namibia’s oldest established settlements and is the administrative centre of the Herero-speaking people. Numerous of the former Herero leaders are buried here and an annual procession through the town to the Herero graves commemorate those who died during the wars against the Nama’s and Germans. Optional excursions on route include a visit to the open - air wood carving centre at Okahandja and the Herero Graves.

Continue north from Okahandja on route to the Okonjima Guest farm. Your scheduled arrival at Okonjima should be by early afternoon allowing you sufficient time to participate in the afternoon scheduled activities.

Accommodation: Okonjima Bush Camp
Full board basis includes all scheduled activities, afternoon teas / coffees but excludes beverages. Afternoon activities include an introduction to work conducted by the AfriCat Foundation. This unique program will enable you to learn more about Namibia’s most beautiful cats and is also renowned for the excellent opportunities for viewing and photographing both leopard and cheetah. An evening activity to the local viewing hide provides the deal opportunity to view some of the more elusive Namibian nocturnal mammals.

Okonjima Guest farm (translated from the Herero language as “place of the baboons” is situated on the Omboroko Mountains. The Bush Lodge comprises 8 thatched, African style chalets and a lapa in the form of the indigenous Camelthorn pod. Each exclusive chalet enjoys complete privacy and is a unique combination of earthy, ochre walls and khaki green canvas, under a thatch roof.

Day 2
Etosha National Park
Daily scheduled activities while at Okonjima will commence with a light breakfast served at the “Lion Lapa” before continuing on a guided nature walk. This walk is an interpretive introduction into the lives of the “Bushmen” and provides explanations and examples on fire making, hunting skills and the manufacturing of rope and ornaments.

After a late “brunch” departure continue your travels in a northerly direction towards the towns of Otjiwarongo and Otavi.

Otjiwarongo provides a convenient stop over on route to the north of the country. As, with most towns in central Namibia the name Otjiwarongo originates from the Herero language, which translated means “place of the fat cattle” or “beautiful place”. Given the central role that cattle play in the Herero culture, both meanings are appropriate. The town was officially founded in 1906 upon the arrival of the narrow gauge railway linking the important mining centre of Tsumeb and the coastal town of Swakopmund.

From Otjiwarongo continue north towards the town of Otavi. This is a very inconspicuous town but was an important copper mining town in its day and was also the scene of many feuds between the Owambo’s, Herero's and Bushmen.

Leaving Otavi continue along the main route heading in northerly direction towards the mining town of Tsumeb. Thanks to the wealth generated by the mines, Tsumeb is an attractive town boasting some fine old colonial buildings and a palm lined central park with spreading lawns. It is also the last stop before passing the “redline” which leads across the country from west to east and separates the southern commercial farms from the communally owned lands in the north.

From Tsumeb return to the main route to lead you towards the Owamboland District and the Etosha National Park. An optional excursion on route can be included to the Sinkhole Lake Otjikoto. The first Europeans to encounter this lake were Francis Galton and Charles Anderson in 1851 and even to today this lake still has an uncanny mystery attached to it.

Late afternoon arrival at the Lodge which is located on the eastern boundary of the Etosha National Park.

Accommodation: Mushara Lodge
Mushara Lodge is situated 8 km from the eastern entrance to the famous Etosha National Park. The lodge offers 10 twin-bedded bungalows, one family unit, and two single rooms. All rooms are stylishly decorated with bathrooms en suite, air conditioning, mini bars telephones and mosquito nets. Activities at Mushara include nature walks on the farm and game drives into the park. Mushara’s mission is to serve guests as well as possible and to comply with their every wish by means of their comprehensive wine list, high quality meals and dedicated and friendly staff.

Day 3
Etosha National Park
After an early breakfast departure continuing into the Etosha National Park via the Von Lindequist Gate. Continue with a full day of game viewing drives as you traverse through the park on route towards the central and western regions. The Etosha National Park has over 114 mammal species, 350 bird species and 21 vegetation types. The most common plains game species encountered include; Burchell’s Zebra, Springbok, Black– Faced Impala, Blue Wildebeest, Gemsbok / Oryx antelope, Giraffe and Red Hartebeest. The Etosha National Park also boasts healthy populations of Lion, Elephant and Black Rhino.

While in the park your game viewing activities should be concentrated around the various waterholes on route. Some of these waterholes are artesian fountains or contact springs while others are artificial. One of these is the Chodob waterhole, which is fed by an artesian fountain. It has a floating reed island, a characteristic associated with this sort of fountain. It is one of the few waterholes frequented by eland, black-faced impala, warthog and giraffe and allows for excellent photograph.

Other waterholes worth visiting include Klein Namutoni, Groot Okevi, Tsumcor and Kalkheuwel while also including a visit to the Fort Namutoni. The first fort, a six roomed building was erected during 1902. In 1904, however it was totally destroyed by Owambo raiders. In 1906 it was rebuilt and considerably enlarged and the fort never again came under attack. From 1910 onwards it served periodically as a police post but eventually fell into disuse. It was however rebuilt in 1956 according to its original design and opened in 1958 as a tourist camp.

Besides visiting the numerous water holes on route excursions can also be conducted to the Halali and Okaukuejo Rest Camps. It would be advisable to have lunch at one of these rest camps before departing from the park via the Anderson / Ombika Gate to arrive at the Ongava Lodge by late afternoon.

Accommodation: Ongava Lodge
The 30 000-hectare, Ongava Reserve borders on the southern boundary of the Etosha National Park. The Ongava Lodge is situated on the foothills of the Ondundozonanandana Range with wonderful views across the plains below and the adjacent floodlit waterhole.
Accommodation is in air-conditioned rock and thatch chalets. Each unit has en-suite facilities with a private viewing deck. The main lounge, pub and dining areas are also under a thatch roof with a large viewing deck.

Day 4
Etosha National Park
While at the Ongava Lodge you will have the option to participate in optional extra scheduled guided excursions. These include late afternoon and early evening nature drives in open safari vehicles on the Ongava Ranch and include game viewing of introduced species like, Black rhino and Waterbuck or game viewing drives into the Okaukuejo Region of the Etosha National Park.

Okaukuejo is the main administrative camp of the Etosha National Park, and was officially opened for visitors in 1957. Apart from the accommodation and other facilities for tourists, the camp is also home to the Ecological Institute, which is responsible for the research and management of the park. The Okaukuejo waterhole is probably one of the most renowned waterholes in the park. The presence of game is seasonal but winter offers game enthusiasts a unique experience as the illuminated waterhole is situated next to the camp. Common sightings include large herds of elephant, black rhino, lion, cheetah, brown hyena, Burchells and Hartman’s Mountain Zebra, Gnu and numerous antelope species.
Accommodation: Ongava Lodge

Day 5 & Day 6
Damaraland
After a leisurely breakfast departure from the central Etosha Region in a southerly direction towards the town of Outjo. This small farming centre has its origins as a hunting and trading centre and was first inhabited by the early European explorer Tom Lambert in 1880.

From Outjo continue in a westerly direction towards the town of Kamanjab. This is the last outpost before entering the Kunene Region, formerly known as Kaokoland and Damaraland. The Kunene Region is situated in Namibia’s remote northwest, hosting the inhospitable Skeleton Coast and bordering Angola. The Kunene River, forming the border between these two countries, has given its name to the area. Many of Namibia’s primary attractions are found here; the famous desert elephant, the ancient culture of the semi-nomadic Himba People, the rare black rhino as well as beautiful landscapes and interesting geological formations. Inhabitants of this are area divided among the three ethnic groups: Damara, Herero and Himba.

From Kamanjab continue over the Grootberg Mountain Pass on route to the small settlement of Palmwag. Here you will be met by your local guide for a transfer and game drive on route into the Etendeka private concession. As this is a wilderness area the emphasis of the excursions is based on guided nature walks with an introduction into the flora and fauna adapted to this rocky desert and nature drive excursions in open safari vehicles. The concession is part of the much larger Damaraland where wildlife, living alongside nomadic pastoralists, is truly wild and free to roam uninhabited. The sighting of Hartmann's mountain zebra, Oryx, springbok, giraffe or perhaps even the desert-adapted elephant or black rhino may add an exciting bonus to your stay. The following two night’s accommodation will be in a tented lodge.

Accommodation: Etendeka Mountain Camp
The Etendeka Tourist Concession comprises an area of 45 000 ha in the foothills of the Grootberg on the edge of the rocky Namibia Desert. The ancient basalt has been eroded into a dramatic landscape of the flat-topped hills and plains strewn with weathered boulders. Each of the ten walk-in, shaded tents is provided with twin beds, a washbasin, fresh water, linen and towels. An electric light and veranda from which to enjoy the view. Water is of high quality, but in short supply. Flush toilets and hot bush showers are provided

Day 7
Skeleton Coast - Swakopmund
Today’s journey leaves the pro-Namib Region of Damaraland descending towards the coastal plateau passing and entering into the Skeleton Coast National Park. This route passes some Welwitschia plants and some sand dunes before arriving at the Atlantic Ocean south of the seasonal fishing resort of Torra Bay. The 16th century Portuguese sailors named it “Dark Hill” after the dark capped hills, which they could see while they were looking for fresh water.

Continue in a southerly direction through the Skeleton Coast National Park before entering the National West Coast Recreational Area. Despite forming part of the Skeleton Coast this area is generally deemed to be flat and dull and is only attractive to the local surf-fisherman. Points of interest on route include a few cement slabs at Toscanini which is the site of a derelict diamond mine, an abandoned oil rig north of the Huab River which dates back to the 1960 and the ship wrecked Seal which dates back to 1976.

Your next stop after leaving the Skeleton Coast National Park will be at the Cape Fur Seal Colony at Cape Cross. In 1486, the first European to set foot on the coast of Namibia, Diago Cao, erected a cross in honour of John 1 of Portugal at a site now known as Cape Cross 115 km north of Swakopmund. In addition to being of historical interest, Cape Cross has a breeding colony to some 80 000 Cape Fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus).

Continue via the small fishing villages of Henties Bay and Jakkalsputz for your late afternoon arrival in Swakopmund.

Accommodation: Swakopmund Hotel
The Swakopmund Hotel is a four-star luxury establishment built in and around the impeccably restored historical station building at Swakopmund. This stylish up market hotel complex is undoubtedly Swakopmunds' most splendid facility. From the light and airy hotel foyer to the 90 spacious bedroom units and two Presidential Suites, all with en-suite facilities. Guests are hosted in luxurious surroundings with a winning combination of the friendly hospitality for which Namibia is renowned.

Day 8
Swakopmund
Today will be at leisure to exploring the town of Swakopmund and the surrounding dunes and “Gravel Plains.” Swakopmund is considered as Namibia’s premier coastal resort and is a popular destination with Namibian’s as a welcome respite from the heat of the interior. The town is also noted for its Old World charm and relaxed atmosphere. Founded in 1892 during the period of German colonial rule it served as the territory’s main harbour for years. Today this quaint town nestled between desert and ocean is enhanced by lush green lawns, palm trees and carefully tended gardens. There is a good selection of restaurants and coffee shops selling traditional German cakes and pastries, while the coastline and the desert respectively offer many options for adventure or relaxation.

Excursions into the Namib Naukluft Park should include visits to the spectacular “Moon Landscape” formation and the “Welwitschia Drive” with its classic examples of the ancient Welwitschia mirabilis plant species.
Accommodation: Swakopmund Hotel

Day 9
Windhoek
Leaving the coast continue in an easterly direction returning across the “gravel plains” towards the small towns of Usakos, Karibib and Okahandja. Usakos had its hay days up until the 1960’s where it served as a service centre for the narrow gauge railway line between Swakopmund and Otavi. Once the steam locomotives were replaced by diesel locomotives the town lapsed into its present sleepy state. The main attractions in Karibib include the colonial buildings, the gemstone and mineral exhibition at the Henckert Tourist Center, the Marble works and the Navachab Gold mine. Okahandja is one of Namibia’s oldest established settlements and is the administrative centre of the Herero-speaking people. Numerous of the former Herero leaders are buried here and an annual procession through the town to the Herero graves commemorate those who died during the wars against the Nama’s and Germans. Optional extra excursions on route include a visit to the open - air wood carving centre at Okahandja and the Herero Graves.

Continuing via Windhoek on route to the Windhoek International Airport for your scheduled departure.
Arrangements will be made for your rental vehicle to be returned to the airport prior to your departure

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Our tours are merely suggested itineraries and therefore can be tailor-made to suit your specific needs. Our Self Drive Tour routings are also suitable as a Guided Safari or Fly-In Safari. 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