Itinerary

12-Day Self-Drive Tour

Namibian Odyssey Adventure

Explore Your Incredible 12 Day-Self Drive Safari Adventure

Day 1 : Kalahari Desert

Kalahari Anib Lodge or similar

Your journey begins as you collect your rental vehicle in Windhoek and head south to the mesmerizing Kalahari Desert. The landscape transforms into rolling red dunes, dotted with camelthorn trees and wandering oryx. Arriving at Kalahari Anib Lodge, you can unwind by the pool before joining a sunset nature drive, where golden light washes over the dunes, and you spot wildlife such as springbok, zebra, and perhaps even a cheetah in the distance. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge’s restaurant, where local flavors take center stage.

Included: Dinner

Day 2 : Kalahari Desert

Kalahari Anib Lodge or similar

Wake up to the sounds of the desert and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the lodge terrace. Spend the day exploring the Kalahari at your own pace—take a guided walk with a local San Bushman to learn about the secrets of survival in this arid environment, or opt for a fat-bike tour across the dunes. As the day winds down, you can embark on another sundowner drive or simply relax at the lodge, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere before another hearty dinner.

Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 : Namib Desert (Sossusvlei)

Desert Camp or similar

Departing the Kalahari, you venture west toward the Namib Desert, home to the world-famous dunes of Sossusvlei. The drive is spectacular, crossing mountain passes and vast desert plains. Your destination is Desert Camp, a charming self-catering retreat with breathtaking views. Dinner tonight is served at Sossusvlei Lodge, where you can enjoy a buffet under the stars, featuring fresh Namibian game and international delicacies.

Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 : Namib Desert (Sossusvlei)

Desert Camp or similar

Rise early for a dawn excursion to Sossusvlei, where the towering dunes glow in hues of red and orange. Climb the famous Dune 45, explore the surreal Deadvlei with its ancient, skeletal trees, and visit the striking Sesriem Canyon. Return to Desert Camp to relax by the pool, or opt for a scenic helicopter flight or Hot air balloon for a bird’s-eye view of this awe-inspiring landscape. The evening is yours to enjoy another magical desert sunset. Dinner is served at Sossusvlei Lodge

Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 : Swakopmund (Atlantic Coast)

Atlantic Garden Boutique Hotel

The journey continues as you head toward the Atlantic Coast, passing through the scenic Gaub and Kuiseb Passes. The air cools as you reach Swakopmund, a seaside town known for its German colonial charm and adventure activities. Check into Atlantic Garden Boutique Hotel, located in the heart of town. The afternoon is free to explore—perhaps a stroll along the jetty, a visit to the local craft market, or a coffee at one of the town’s famous bakeries. Dinner is at your own leisure; consider trying fresh seafood at The Tug or Jetty 1905.

Included: Breakfast

Day 6 : Swakopmund (Atlantic Coast)

Atlantic Garden Boutique Hotel

Today, you can choose your own adventure—go on a thrilling quad biking and sandboarding excursion in the dunes, take a catamaran cruise in Walvis Bay to see seals and dolphins, or explore the eerie Moon Landscape and Welwitschia plants. For something cultural, visit the Swakopmund Museum or the historic Woermannhaus. In the evening, enjoy another meal at your preferred restaurant—perhaps the fine dining experience at The Wreck or a casual dinner at Kücki’s Pub.

Included: Breakfast

Day 7 : Twyfelfontein (Damaraland)

Leaving the coast behind, you drive north into the rugged terrain of Damaraland, a land of towering mountains, open plains, and ancient rock formations. Your first stop is Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its prehistoric rock engravings. After exploring the area, settle into Twyfelfontein Country Lodge, which blends beautifully into its rocky surroundings. In the afternoon, you can visit the Organ Pipes and Burnt Mountain, or take a guided nature drive in search of the elusive desert-adapted elephants. Dinner is served at the lodge, where you can enjoy a starlit evening in this untamed wilderness.

Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 : Palmwag (Damaraland)

Today’s journey takes you deeper into Damaraland, toward the lush oasis of Palmwag, a remote wilderness teeming with wildlife. Check into Palmwag Lodge, set along a riverbed where elephants and giraffes often roam. In the afternoon, embark on a guided safari, where you may encounter rare black rhinos, lions, and other desert-adapted species. Relax in the lodge’s infinity pool, overlooking the dramatic landscape, before indulging in a candlelit dinner under the African sky.

Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 : Etosha National Park

A change of scenery awaits as you travel to Etosha National Park, Namibia’s premier wildlife destination. Check into Etosha Safari Lodge, located just outside the park’s southern gate. In the afternoon, embark on your first self-drive safari, exploring the waterholes where elephants, lions, and rhinos gather. Return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner and share stories of your wildlife encounters.

Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Twyfelfontein Country Lodge or Similar

Palmwag Lodge or similar

Etosha Safari Lodge or similar

Day 10 : Etosha National Park

Etosha Safari Lodge or similar

Dedicate the day to exploring Etosha, driving through its diverse landscapes and stopping at famous waterholes such as Okaukuejo, Halali, and Goas. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards in the trees, herds of zebras crossing the plains, and large prides of lions resting under acacias. If you prefer, you can join a guided safari for deeper insights into the park’s ecology. As the sun sets, return to the lodge for a final evening in the wild.

Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11 : Okonjima Nature Reserve

Okonjima or similar

After breakfast, you leave Etosha and travel south to Okonjima, home of the AfriCat Foundation. Check into the luxurious Okonjima Lodge, a haven for cheetahs and leopards. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling tracking safari, where you can see rehabilitated big cats up close. The lodge’s setting is stunning, offering a peaceful retreat with beautiful sunset views. Enjoy a final celebratory dinner, reminiscing about the incredible journey you’ve had.

Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12 : Windhoek

Your adventure comes to an end as you make your way back to Windhoek. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief city tour or a visit to the Craft Centre for last-minute souvenirs. Drop off your rental car and catch your flight home, carrying memories of Namibia’s diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and warm hospitality.

Included: Breakfast