Day 1 Windhoek
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.
Accommodation: Hotel Heinitzburg
When Count von Schwerin commissioned castle Heinitzburg for his fiancé,
Margarethe von Heintz in 1914, love was his inspiration, elegance was his
achievement. Today his inspiration has been preserved and complimented to
combine luxury and charm. All of the rooms feature the most magnificent views
of Windhoek and surrounding Khomas Hochland. A full continental breakfast is
served in a choice of settings. Outdoors in the garden café overlooking the
city and Khomas Hochland or indoors in the richly finished Aschernborn Room
located in the old castle. Centrally located, the Hotel Heinitzburg is a short
2-minute drive from the city centre. All the rooms are en-suite with air
conditioning, television, telephone and a mini bar. A swimming pool is also on
the premises.
Day 2
Kalahari Desert
After an early breakfast departure heading in a southerly direction towards
the western Kalahari Basin. On route pass through the small settlement of
Rehoboth before arriving at the western boundary of the Kalahari Desert.
Rehoboth is home to the “Baster Community” a fiercely independent people who
are the descendants of a group of farmers of mixed European and Khoisan blood.
These people first migrated to the area from the Cape in 1870 where they
established a settlement at the site of an abandoned Rhenish Mission Station.
This region consists of ancient parallel red dunes covered by vegetation and
ranging in height from 5 to 30 meters. Grassy plains scattered with mature
Camelthorn trees, known as dune 'streets', separate the dunes that run
northwest to Southeast. These plains support a diversity of vegetation and
animal species that will leave you breathless with wonder, as you marvel at
the paradise of the Kalahari Desert. This is where the red dunes meet the deep
blue sky, and the sun sets in an explosion of colour, where some of the last
few Bushmen roam in freedom and harmony with the land.
Continue south towards the small settlement of Kalkrand before heading in an
easterly direction towards the western Kalahari Basin to Bagatelle Kalahari
Game Ranch, which is situated in the western Kalahari Basin where the red
dunes meet the deep blue sky, and the sun sets in an explosion of colour,
where some of the last few Bushmen roam in freedom and harmony with the land.
Accommodation: Bagatelle Kalahari Dune Lodge
Nature drives during the early morning and late afternoon will enable you not
only to view the diversified animal and bird life, but also the unique dune
topography and vegetation. A traditional sundowner on a red Kalahari sand dune
will be the perfect way to watch the sun sink away into the distant dunes.
Day 3
Fish River Canyon
After participating in the early morning scheduled excursions and a late
“brunch” departure continuing in a southerly direction on route through the
southern Karas Region via the small towns of Mariental and Keetmanshoop. This
is one of the oldest established towns in Namibia and the capital of the
south. Optional excursions on route should be included to the “Quiver Tree
Forest”; an outcrop colonized by an Aloe tree species (Aloe dichotoma) and the
basalt formations of the “Giants Play Ground”. Late afternoon arrival.
Accommodation: Cañon Lodge
The Canon Lodge is located approximately 20km from the Hobas entrance to the
Fish River Canyon and promises visitors the opportunity to experience one of
the greatest natural masterpieces in the world. The Canon Lodge consists of 26
bungalows each having natural rock walls, thatch roof and en-suite facilities.
The original farmhouse, which was built in 1910, serves as the restaurant and
boasts awe-inspiring views of the canyon landscape.
Day 4
Aus
This morning can be spent conducting an excursion to the Fish River Canyon,
the third largest canyon in the world and the second largest in Africa. This
impressive geological formation had its origins some 1’800 million years ago
and has had evidence of human “habitation” for over 50 000 years. Visits
should be conducted to the various viewpoints, including Hells Bend. For the
more energetic a walk along the canyon can be included.
Leaving the Fish River Canyon follow the main route in a westerly direction
over the central highland plateau towards the small mountain town of Aus. Aus
was established as a prisoner of war camp in 1915 following the surrender of
the German colonial troops to the South African forces. The site was chosen
for its strategic significance, situated on the railway line between
Keetmanshoop and the harbour town of Lüderitz.
Early afternoon arrival at Klein Aus Vista, located 2 km west of Aus and 115
km from Lüderitz, where the Aus Mountains border on the Namib Desert. During
the afternoon conduct optional extra activities into the southern Namib
Naukluft Park to Garub, a watering point in the desert normally frequented by
the “Feral Horses”, or just relax taking in the breathtaking desert
landscapes.
Accommodation: Klein Aus Vista, Desert Horse Inn
The Desert Horse Inn offers luxury rooms with spacious, en-suite bathrooms.
Relax with a sundowner on the wooden deck overlooking the farm before
savouring your delicious meal in the restaurant or sipping your drink in the
ladies bar with its cosy fireplace during the chilly winter evenings.
Day 5
Namib Rand Nature Reserve - Namib Naukluft Park
Departing from Aus continue in a northerly direction following the eastern
boundary of the Namib Desert towards Namibia's largest privately owned nature
reserve, the Namib Rand Nature Reserve.
An optional extra excursion on route should be included to the Duwisib Castle.
The Duwisib Castle was built in 1907 for Hansheinrich von Wolf and his
American heiress wife Jayta. The fort was designed by Willi Sander, renowned
for designing Windhoek’s, Heinitzburg Castle. Stone for the castle was
quarried some three kilometres away while other material and furnishings were
imported from Germany via Lüderitz.
Midday arrival at the Wolwedans Dune Lodge to participate in a late afternoon
nature drive excursion in open safari vehicles through the Namib Dunes and
grassy plains of the Namib Rand Nature Reserve.
Accommodation: Wolwedans Dune Lodge
The Dune Lodge aims at providing a unique experience close to nature, yet
without compromising comfort and style. The entire lodge is constructed on
wooden platforms and overlooks panoramic vistas in all directions, capturing
the desert in an intimate and memorable way. The building style is a
combination of wooden poles and large canvas blinds and windows that open up
to the desert beyond. The lodge reflects the ambience of a tented camp, but
provides the comfort and protection of a permanent building.
Each of the eight spacious Chalets with en-suite bathrooms leads onto a
private veranda and stretches of untouched sand. Careful selection of
furniture, light coloured linen as well as the selection of accessories gives
the Dune Lodge a distinct natural charm. The main complex - also built on
stilts - consists of a bar and lounge, sundowner decks with a fireplace and a
spacious dining room. All communal areas open out onto a veranda with a superb
view of the surroundings.
Day 6
Namib Rand Nature Reserve - Namib Naukluft Park
Today will spent participating in nature drive excursions on the Namib Rand
Nature Reserve. Drives can be done on a full day basis or a separate morning
and afternoon nature drive in open safari vehicles. Game species found on the
Namib Rand Nature Reserve include the Oryx Antelope, the Mountain and Plains
Zebra, Springbok, Red Hartebeest, Blesbok, Bat-Eared Fox, Spotted Hyena,
Aardwolf, Cape Fox, Caracal, African Wild Cat and the Black-backed jackal. The
more rocky areas of the reserve are inhabited by Kudu, Klipspringer, Baboon
and Leopard, while the dunes harbour a rich diversity in microfauna including
moles, gerbils, snakes, geckos, beetles, spiders and ants.
Accommodation: Wolwedans Dune Lodge
An optional extra ballooning safari can be reserved to provide an
unforgettable sunrise over the Namib Desert.
Day 7
Namib Naukluft Park – Sossusvlei - Sesriem
After an early breakfast departure from the Namib Rand Nature Reserve
continuing in a northerly direction towards the Sesriem entrance to the Namib
Naukluft Park. Participate in an optional extra excursion into the Namib
Naukluft Park, into the heart of the Namib Desert and the "Sand Sea", visiting
the Sossusvlei Dune belt. Sossusvlei is a word from Nama descent, which
directly translated means a place with many endings. Many visitors to Namibia
say that no part of the desert is more stunning than Sossusvlei, with its
monumentally high dunes, the shadows of their sinuous crests continually
changing as the day waxes and wanes. Gigantic star-shaped mountains of sand,
the highest estimated at 325 m. The warm tints of the sand, ranging from pale
apricot to brick orange and deep red, contrast vividly with the dazzling white
surfaces of the deflationary clay pans at some of their bases. Once in the
desert optional excursions are conducted on foot to photograph the dune
landscape and explore the desert ecology.
By early afternoon continue in a northerly direction towards the settlement of
Solitaire. This route runs parallel to the Namib Naukluft Park for most of the
way except for a short corridor, which joins the plains of the Namib Desert to
the Naukluft Mountain Range. This serves as a migratory corridor for the Oryx
Antelope, which migrate between their summer and winter-feeding grounds.
The small settlement of Solitaire has a filling station and a shop, which
sells, soft drinks, snacks and basic supplies. The name Solitaire is derived
from the lone dead tree standing next to the service station. From Solitaire
continue travelling in a northerly direction adjacent to the Namib Naukluft
Park. This route follows the gravel plains of the Namib Desert towards the
spectacular Gaub and Kuiseb Canyons. Late afternoon arrival.
Accommodation: Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge
Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge consists of 22 double rooms housed in traditional
round buildings, which are aesthetically integrated in the natural
surroundings. Unlimited view of the Namib Naukluft Park can be experienced
from each room's balcony. The motivated staff, an excellent a la carte
restaurant and fully stocked bar guarantees an overnight guest or day visitor
a memorable stay in the Namib Desert.
Day 8
Swakopmund
Today’s journey passes through the spectacular Gaub and Kuiseb Canyons before
crossing the gravel plains of the Namib Desert on route to the commercial
harbour town of Walvis Bay. This is Namibia’s largest commercial harbour,
while the Walvis Bay Lagoon, protected under the RAMSAR Convention as an
important wetland, is renowned for its seasonal abundance of both the Greater
and Lesser Flamingo species. The scenic drive from Walvis Bay to Swakopmund
leads between the dramatic coastal dues and the ocean.
The remainder of your afternoon can be spent 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: Hotel Eberwein
The Hotel Eberwein opened its doors for the first time in December 1999 and
offers much to anticipate. The hotel occupies a historic building "Villa
Willie" which was built in 1910. The building's exterior remained unchanged
and the rooms still have the original stuccowork to be admired. Accommodation
is in seventeen tasteful elegant rooms partially decorated in Victorian style.
All rooms are equipped to the highest standard and have television, direct
dial telephones, hair dryer, coffee machines and mini-bar. A cosy lounge
offers a bay and bar where exquisite South African wines are served. The Hotel
has underground parking and is within five minutes walk from the central town
shopping centre and 15 minutes walk from the beach.
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
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
