Welcome to Windhoek, the vibrant capital of Namibia, nestled in a valley between the Eros Mountains to the north and the Auas Mountains to the south. This picturesque city beautifully blends African and European cultures, a fusion evident in its unique architecture and rich history. Later tonight, we’ll meet up at approximately 7:00pm for our group welcome dinner at Joe’s Beerhouse. Special note: This tour involves some long travel days by private vehicle, where conditions may be uneven and dusty due to travel over many gravel roads. Road conditions are changeable and can vary from being good to heavily corrugated, depending on local conditions.

After an early breakfast, we’ll depart Windhoek and embark on a scenic journey towards the breathtaking Sossusvlei, deep in the heart of the Namib Desert. Our first stop will be Penduka Women’s Village, an amazing community project that empowers over 500 local women. Here, you’ll get to check out some beautiful, handcrafted goods, learn about the artisans, and discover how the village supports the community. It’s a meaningful experience that really highlights the creativity and strength of Namibia’s rural areas. As we continue our drive, we’ll enjoy a packed lunch, giving you a chance to relax and eat while soaking in the vast desert landscape. The towering dunes and endless skies will keep you in awe as we make our way to Sossusvlei. When we arrive at our lodge, you’ll be welcomed by the peaceful ambiance of the Namib Desert. Famed for its vibrant ochre-coloured sand, as the dunes age, the brighter and more intense the red becomes. In fact, the sand in Sossusvlei is thought to be between 3 and 5 million years old! Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

We start early today, rising before dawn to journey towards the majestic Sossusvlei dunes. Once we arrive, we’ll switch to 4WD vehicles, to tackle the rugged desert terrain and reach the dunes. As the sun rises, we’ll climb the towering dunes, where we’ll be treated to panoramic views of the endless desert and vast claypans below. Make sure to have your camera ready — this will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip. Next, we’ll visit the nearby Dead Vlei, where ancient, dead camel thorn trees stand in stark contrast to the bright white claypan floor. The otherworldly landscape here is perfect for more incredible photos, and we’ll take our time soaking it all in. We’ll also enjoy a delicious picnic breakfast right in the heart of the desert, surrounded by nothing but stunning scenery. Our final stop for the morning will be Sesriem Canyon, a remarkable geological feature carved by the Tsauchab River millions of years ago. The ancient rock formations here will tell the story of Namibia’s ever-changing landscape — it’ll be a fascinating stop before we return to the lodge to relax and unwind.

Special Experience

Relax with a sundowner drink at Elim Dune and watch as the sun sets over the vast plains of the Namib Desert.

Today involves approximately 2-3 hours of walking on soft sand and over dunes.

This morning, we’ll continue our journey towards Swakopmund, a charming coastal town that perfectly blends its German heritage with the beauty of Namibia’s southwestern coast. Founded in 1892, Swakopmund is the country’s largest coastal town, with over 75,000 residents. Known for its palm-lined streets, sandy beaches, and well-preserved German colonial architecture, it’s a place where history and coastal charm come together. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure. You can explore more of Swakopmund on your own or, for something unforgettable, you might opt for a scenic flight over the dramatic Skeleton Coast.

Optional Excursion

Optional Excursion – Swakopmund Scenic Flight (Cessna 210 Craft) – Often described as 'the flight of a lifetime', travelling from Swakopmund along the Kuiseb Riverbed to the awe-inspiring dunes at Sossusvlei. The colour and shadows of these gigantic mountains of sand change by the hour from beige to rust-red to purple, dazzling the eye. The flight continues over the ‘sea of sand’, towards the shore at Conception Bay, soaring along the coastline and over the shipwreck of the German passenger liner, Eduard Bohlen. Other points of interests include Sandwich Harbour and it’s a large saltwater lagoon, home to an incredible variety of bird life and one of southern Africa’s greatest natural bird sanctuaries; and the salt mines of Walvis Bay, before landing back in the town of Swakopmund. 1.5 hours (610km) – from NAD6500 (approximately US $370pp) (minimum 4 participants)

Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.

We’ll depart the hotel early this morning for an experience right out of a wildlife documentary. Located on the Atlantic coast of Namibia, the spectacular waterfront of Walvis Bay is nestled where the Namib Desert meets the sea. Home to an incredible array of birds and marine life, the area is perhaps most famous for the iconic crowds of pink flamingos that flock to its shores.

Special Experience

Enjoy a scenic cruise on Walvis Bay in search of Namibia’s ‘Marine Big Five’, made up of whales, dolphins, mola mola, leatherback turtles and seals.

Boarding our boat, we’ll embark on an exciting marine excursion from the Walvis Bay Waterfront. As we sail along the coast, we’ll pass by local oyster farms and head toward the remote Pelican Point peninsula, home to over 60,000 Cape Fur Seals. It’s the perfect opportunity to watch these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, you'll have free time to continue discovering Swakopmund at your own pace. You might choose to explore the vibrant arts and crafts centre or simply unwind by the ocean, enjoying the peaceful coastal surroundings.

Today, we’ll say goodbye to Swakopmund and head north toward Damaraland, a region that’s as captivating as it is beautiful. Along the way, we’ll pass through the Brandberg Mountains, Namibia’s highest peak, offering jaw-dropping views of dramatic rock formations and vast plains that seem to go on forever. We’ll also make a stop at a Himba Village, home to Namibia’s last semi-nomadic people. The Himba are known for their distinctive practice of covering their skin with butterfat and ochre (otjize paste), to protect themselves from the harsh climate. Their unique beauty rituals and lifestyle offer an unforgettable insight into their captivating culture. Arriving at our accommodation, enjoy some time to settle in before heading out on a fascinating Desert Elephant drive this afternoon. These incredible elephants have adapted to the tough, semi-desert environment, with smaller bodies, longer legs, and larger feet to help them navigate the dunes in search of water. It’s a rare chance to see these unique creatures in their natural habitat — a truly awe-inspiring experience and a lovely opportunity to snap some beautiful photographs. As the sun sets over the desert, we’ll pause for sundowners and soak in the peaceful beauty of Damaraland’s vast landscape. We’ll return to the lodge after for a delicious dinner, savouring the fragrant flavours of the region. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

After an early breakfast, we begin our exploration of Damaraland with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Twyfelfontein. This fascinating site is home to over 2,500 ancient rock engravings. We’ll take a guided walk around the Zieben Platten National Heritage Site, to uncover the stories behind these intricate carvings, some of which are thousands of years old. Next, we’ll visit the Damara Living Museum, where we’ll dive into the rich history of the Damara people, one of Namibia’s oldest cultures. Their heritage, shaped by a blend of hunter-gatherer and herding traditions, has been profoundly influenced by colonization. The museum provides a rare glimpse into how their culture has adapted, offering insight into a society once on the brink of disappearing. Departing the museum, we’ll continue on to Etosha, reaching our accommodation in the afternoon. Once checked in, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure with plenty of time to settle in and relax before dinner. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking over rocky and uneven ground. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

After an early breakfast, we’ll set off for a thrilling full day of game viewing in Etosha National Park. Our expert rangers will guide us as we explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, home to over 110 animal species and 300 bird species. Etosha is renowned for its wildlife, including four of the ‘Big Five’ — elephants, lions, leopards and rhinos. We’ll also have the chance to search for rarer species, such as the black-faced impala and the small but mighty Damara dik-dik. One of the park’s main highlights is the Etosha Pan, a massive salt desert so vast that it can be seen from space. During the dry season, the waterholes here attract all sorts of wildlife, making it a photographer’s dream. After the rains, flamingos flock to the pan, adding splashes of pink to the stark white landscape. We’ll spend the day immersed in nature, observing the breathtaking wildlife, birdlife and scenery that make Etosha such a special place. In the evening, we’ll retreat to the peaceful comfort of our lodge for dinner.

After an early breakfast, we continue our adventure with another exciting day on safari, this time exploring the eastern regions of Etosha National Park. We’ll board open 4WD safari vehicles and spend the day searching for wildlife across a variety of landscapes. From elephants in lush, dense vegetation to giraffes grazing in the drier areas, and lions prowling the golden grasslands, the eastern side of Etosha offers plenty of opportunities to spot more wildlife. We’ll also enjoy the chance to observe numerous other species, including graceful antelopes and majestic zebras, all set against the striking backdrop of Etosha’s salt pans and waterholes. In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey through the park, taking in the stunning landscapes and the diverse wildlife that calls Etosha home. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Leaving the arid beauty of Etosha behind us, today we depart the national park for an exciting journey north to the Kavango region, a vibrant and culturally rich area of Namibia. Although our drive will be long today, we’re in for a truly scenic journey as we pass through captivating landscapes that showcase the diverse beauty of the country. Along the way, we’ll make a pit stop in the town of Grootfontein for an opportunity to get some lunch and to stretch our legs. This sleepy hidden gem is an important agricultural hub and offers the perfect place to pause before we continue on. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a serene sundowner cruise along the Okavango River, which forms the border between Namibia and Angola. The river is teeming with birdlife, and as we glide along the water, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak in the stunning scenery. As the sun sets, we’ll enjoy refreshing drinks, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of one of Namibia’s most serene locations. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Today we venture deep into the Kavango region. Our first stop will be a charming Zambezi village, where we can immerse ourselves in the local traditions and experience the vibrant way of life. Our journey continues as we make our way to Mahango National Park, nestled in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip. Known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, this area was once acquired by German Chancellor Leo von Caprivi in 1890, with the hope of gaining access to the Indian Ocean via the Zambezi River, although the mighty Victoria Falls stood in the way. This region, often called Namibia’s “panhandle,” offers a perfect blend of beauty and history. After some time to relax and explore, we’ll set off on a serene river cruise along the Kavango River. As we glide along the water, we’ll have the chance to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and perhaps spot wildlife drinking from the riverbanks. As the sun sets, we’ll unwind with refreshing drinks while taking in the tranquil atmosphere. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the beauty of Mahango National Park with an exciting game drive. We’ll board the 4WD open safari vehicle and head out through the park’s diverse landscapes, where vast floodplains and towering baobab trees provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. Mahango is a sanctuary for many species of antelope, but keep your eyes peeled for the park’s bigger residents, including elephants, lions, leopards, and even the elusive wild dogs. Crocodiles, hippos, baboons, and vervet monkeys are also frequent sights, adding to the magic of the park. After an exhilarating morning of wildlife sightings, we’ll return to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings as you gaze over the river. Whether you choose to unwind on the lodge’s deck with a refreshing drink or take a gentle stroll around the grounds, this is the perfect time to recharge.

After a rewarding time discovering the wildlife and landscapes of the Caprivi Strip, we begin our journey south to the beautiful terrain of Botswana. Our destination is Maun, a quaint town on the edge of the Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. The drive offers breathtaking views, with Botswana’s wild beauty unfolding before us. As we approach Maun, the peaceful Thamalekane River greets us, winding its way near our accommodation, offering a serene introduction to the beauty of the Okavango Delta. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Today, we leave Maun behind and head east toward the heart of the Okavango Delta, passing through vibrant local villages along the way. Our journey takes us to the buffalo fence, marking our entry into the Okavango Delta. From here, we continue deeper into the game reserve, where we’ll pause for a refreshing break before setting off on an exciting game drive, where the wilderness will unfold before us. As we explore, the landscape transforms, offering endless opportunities for stunning wildlife sightings and incredible photo moments. Along the way, we’ll stop for a delicious picnic lunch in the reserve, allowing us to relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty. Late afternoon, we’ll arrive at our natural safari campsite, where you’ll be guided to your tent and briefed on safety and facilities. As evening settles, enjoy a 3-course dinner under the stars complemented by exquisite South African wines. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

After an early breakfast, we’re off on another game drive. With its rich landscapes and abundant wildlife, the Delta promises incredible sights around every corner. And in the early hours of the morning, the bush is even more spectacular as the surrounding wildlife begins to rise for the day. As we explore, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of animals and birds that call this stunning place home. Next, we’ll board motorboats to explore the tranquil permanent lagoons of Xaxanika or Godikwa. These serene waters offer a completely different perspective of the region, with heronries providing a breathtaking spectacle of birdlife. The peaceful environment is a perfect setting to soak in the beauty of the delta. After our thrilling adventure, we’ll return to camp for a delicious lunch and some well-deserved downtime. The Delta is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 500 species, so be prepared for more surprises in the afternoon when we head back out in search of wildlife. As the day ends, we’ll relax with sundowners, reflecting on our experiences, before enjoying another unforgettable dinner under the vast African sky.

After a delicious breakfast, we head out for a relaxed morning game drive in the stunning Moremi Game Reserve. This is your chance to take in the serene beauty of the reserve, enjoy its tranquil landscapes and perhaps spot some last-minute wildlife before we continue our journey. Next, prepare for an exhilarating scenic flight over the Okavango Delta. From the sky, you'll be mesmerized by the endless waterways, sparkling white claypans and palm-lined lagoons of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed oasis. Keep your camera ready as you spot hippos lounging in the channels, and elephants and buffaloes seeking refuge under the shade of trees. Upon landing back in Maun, we’ll collect our luggage and then board the tour vehicle for the next leg of our adventure. Our drive will take us towards the village of Nata, passing striking savannahs and salt pans along the way. Arriving at our lodge in the late afternoon, we’ll check in and enjoy dinner before an exciting day of discovery tomorrow. Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.

Waking in the peaceful natural surrounds of Nata, enjoy a slow morning with breakfast at the lodge, before we set off for the day ahead. We’ll hit the road again for a scenic drive to our next destination, the wetlands and woodlands of Chobe National Park. Get comfy and enjoy some time to unwind, as we soak in some breathtaking landscapes en route. Chobe, Botswana’s third-largest national park, is famed for its incredible diversity of wildlife. Home to the largest concentration of elephants on Earth, the park offers some of Africa’s most awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Unlike traditional 4x4 game drives, the lush waterways of Chobe allow travellers to experience its beautiful surrounds from a different perspective, by water! Prepare for a truly remarkable experience in one of the continent's most spectacular national parks. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.

We start the day early with a game drive in an open 4WD safari vehicle, taking us deep into the heart of Chobe National Park where we’ll explore the park’s varied ecosystems, each teeming with wildlife. Expect to spot elephants, lions, leopards, and an array of other animals as we travel through lush plains, dense forests and open floodplains. Chobe is home to four distinct ecosystems: Serondela, with its fertile plains and forests along the Chobe River; the Savuti Marsh in the west; the Linyanti Swamps in the northwest; and the dry hinterland that connects them all. During the dry season, the park's floodplains attract large herds of elephants, offering a rare and unforgettable sight. After the drive, we return to the lodge for a relaxing breakfast, with time to unwind and soak in the surroundings. In the afternoon, we embark on a guided river cruise along the Chobe River. The peaceful journey offers a unique perspective of the wildlife along the banks, including elephants, hippos, and colourful birds. Enjoy the serenity as we watch the sun sink into the horizon.

This morning, we cross the border from Botswana to Zimbabwe during our transfer to the mesmerising Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls, also known as the ‘Smoke that Thunders’, is suggested to be the world’s biggest waterfall at 1.7-kilometres-wide and 110-metres-high. The noise of the falls can be heard from 40 kilometres away, while its spray and mist can be seen from 50 kilometres. Victoria Falls is located on the mighty Zambezi River, which forms the international border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. David Livingstone is believed to have been the first European to discover the waterfall in November 1855 and named it in honour of Queen Victoria. Later this afternoon, we’ll embark on a peaceful sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. Teeming with an abundance of wildlife, relax and unwind as we gently glide along Africa’s fourth-longest river. Known for its rich birdlife, and large populations of Nile crocodiles and hippos, we’ll enjoy a spectacular experience as the surrounding species flock to the water’s edge — made even more beautiful in the golden glow of the sunset. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and we are set to explore this incredible location on foot this morning. Our walking discovery will take us to various vantage points, each offering a unique perspective of the falls. Facing the Zambian side, we’ll visit lookout points that provide views of the Victoria Falls Bridge, take us through the jungle, and even allow us to peer right over the edge. Feel the spray of the falls and hear the thunderous roar as millions of tonnes of water tumble into the deep gorge below, where the Zambezi River continues its journey eastward towards the Indian Ocean. We’ll then enjoy an afternoon at leisure, to further explore or relax in the amenities of the hotel. In the evening, we’ll visit a local community for our group farewell dinner. Enjoy the delicious flavours of an authentic Zimbabwean meal as we reminisce about our favourite moments on tour. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.

Optional Excursion

Victoria Falls Under-The-Bridge tour – Gear up for a thrilling experience as we discover the history of the Victoria Falls Bridge during an exciting ‘under-the-bridge’ walk. Enjoy breathtaking views of the falls as you learn about the 120-year history of this engineering marvel. Approximately 2.5 hours – from $61pp US.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to our incredible adventure across Africa. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories from this remarkable journey!