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Before Planning a Cape Town to Namibia Road Trip, Read This

Cape Town to Namibia Road Trip cover photo - unrise at Okaukuejo Camp in Etosha with camper trucks in the foreground.

This post will help you determine whether a Namibia road trip from Cape Town is worth it and share inside tips if you do. Compliment it with our Namibia travel tips , South Africa road trip tips , Cape Town travel blog , and in-depth Namibia travel blog and itinerary , and honest pros and cons of visiting Namibia .

Why Aren't One-Way Road Trips Between Cape Town and Namibia More Popular?

A one-way road trip from Cape Town to Namibia (or vice-versa) is a no-brainer. It combines two of Southern Africa's top attractions into one trip with less flying, no backtracking, and more adventure.

Or so we thought.

When we looked for Cape Town to Namibia road trip info online, we found nothing. No blogs, guides, or anything. Just a couple old TripAdvisor forums. We couldn't comprehend why a Cape Town to Namibia road trip wasn't more popular.

So we did it.

We loaded a rental car with whatever we'd accumulated during our six months living in Cape Town, plus some flea market-sourced camping gear and set off towards Windhoek.

Thirteen days later, we arrived with a much better understanding of why—and why not—to do a one-way road trip between Cape Town and Namibia.

Here's what we learned.

In this Cape Town to Namibia Road Trip Guide

Why Not Do It?
Tips If You Decide to Try

Kim stands beside a lineup of 4x4 camping vehicles in a parking lot in Fish River Canyon

Why Not Do a Cape Town to Namibia Road Trip?

✗ money.

You're not going to save money by doing a one-way road trip between South Africa and Namibia.

Sure, you save money if you drive from Cape Town to Namibia because car rental is generally cheaper in South Africa than in Namibia. And whichever direction you go you'll save roughly $120-$200 US per person on a one-way flight ticket, plus the hassle of flying, baggage restrictions, getting to the airport, and all that.

But one-way car rental fees negate those savings and possibly supersede them.

For our little VW Polo, the one-way fee was $280 US, so Kim and I came out pretty much even. But if we had rented a truck instead, which in retrospect we should've done—we'll elaborate on this later —the one-way fee would've been about $390 US. In this case, flying to Namibia and doing a round-trip road trip from there would have been slightly cheaper.

✗ Insurance Troubles

Car and truck rental agencies don't offer tire and windshield insurance outside of the country you rent from, so if you rent in South Africa like we did you won't be covered in Namibia. You have to rent in Namibia to be covered there.

Normally, this wouldn't matter because car rental usually insurance isn't worth it.

But Namibia isn't normal.

You are very likely to puncture a tire or crack a windshield at some point along Namibia's shamefully mismanaged dirt roads—we punctured three tires in our trip!—so a Namibia road trip is the rare case where it might actually be in your favor to do so.

Don't count on your credit card's insurance to cover tires and windshield either, because it almost certainly does not.

So unless you can find third-party insurance to cover you, you're going to have to take the risk.

We did and ended up getting dinged $120 US by our rental agency for returning our car with one patched tire. Good thing we didn't tell them about the other two or it would've been triple that!

Chris sticks his head out of a window of an old abandoned car in Klein Aus Vista

✗ Sanity

Even a Buddhist monk couldn't help but eventually run out of patience and start swearing and pulling his hair out scratching his scalp because of Namibia's mind and body-numbingly terrible roads.

So if you don’t like the idea of spending your days feeling like you're trapped inside a giant paint can shaker, you might want to think twice about doing a major road trip in Namibia entirely.

Sure Namibia's desert landscapes are beautiful and one-of-a-kind, but South Africa also has equally-worthy scenery and much better roads. Consider doing a road trip between Cape Town and Johannesburg instead , or, if you're dead-set on desert, do a road trip in Jordan, Oman, or the Southwestern U.S.

✗ Preferences

Hardcore off-road trippers tell us that Namibia's real highlights and adventures are found in the northwest of the country and the Caprivi Strip .

These areas are as far as you can get from South Africa, so if you prefer to explore them you're probably better off starting off and ending your trip in Windhoek.

✗ Time

If you have less than ten days and really want to knock off Namibia's top two highlights—Etosha's animals and Sossusvlei's sand dunes—you're better off flying to save time.

Watch How Namibia Really Is

Why do a road trip between cape town and namibia.

Chris and Kim on a sunrise dune drive in NamibRand.

✓ More Rewarding

There's something extra rewarding about driving a long distance to get somewhere rather than simply flying there and doing a loop. We certainly felt it as we drove into Windhoek to conclude our trip.

Part of the reward has to do with getting a better appreciation for and understanding of the gradual changes in the landscape. And for sure there's the benefit of not having to backtrack. Then there's the feeling of accomplishment when you're done.

It's hard to explain, but whatever it is, for us this was the biggest appeal of all of doing a one-way road trip from Cape Town to Windhoek.

✓ Easy Border Crossing

Crossing into Namibia with our South African car took only half an hour and cost just 295 NAD ($20 US) for, ahem , "Road Fund Administration."

Us Canadians are lucky to not need a visa for Namibia. Americans and Western Europeans don't either. If you have another nationality, check Wikipedia to see if you need a visa or not.

✓ Load Up in Cape Town

This was also key for us.

We'd accumulated a bunch of stuff during our six months in Cape Town that we wouldn't have been able to fly with but could stuff into our car. This included cheap used camping gear we bought at the flea market (see below) , big bags of almonds and macadamia nuts from Komati Foods , and many bottles of wine.

Kim is ready for anything standing on the edge of Fish River Canyon in Namibia

✓ Namibia's South is the Best

Surprisingly enough, we enjoyed Namibia's south most of all even though two of Southern Namibia's top highlights, the Fish River Canyon and the Orange River , failed to impress us and we regret-less-ly skipped a couple of others entirely, Luderitz and the ghost town of Kolmanskop .

The roads in the south were in better condition because of less traffic, the scenery was more consistently impressive, and it contained more surprises than Namibia's more populated and touristed center and north.

Group walking in the Cederberg Mountains in South Africa

✓ South Africa's Northwest is Worth It, Too

By driving from Cape Town to Namibia we got to explore South Africa's northwest, which deserves just as much hype as the Garden Route , Cape Town, and Kruger :

The Cederberg has fantastic hiking, camping, swimming, wine, and beer.
Paternoster, Langebaan, and Lamberts Bay have world-class restaurants (like this one) , nice beaches, and colorful shops.
Darling lives up to its name.
Vredendal has fantastic wine cellars, including one of our 10 absolute favorite South African wine tastings : Fryer's Cove.
Around August and September, colorful wildflowers burst from the desert.

You could easily spend a couple of weeks exploring these attractions on their own. Definitely don't speed past them on your way from Cape Town to Namibia.

Cape Town to Namibia Road Trip Tips

These tips specifically relate to Cape Town to Namibia road trip. To be fully prepared, make sure to check out our general Namibia Road Trip Tips (Part 2 of our Desert Diary series) and our South Africa Road Trip Tips .

Truck at sunrise speeding across the gravel roads in Fish River Canyon

What kind of vehicle?

One day, the Namibian government might get their shit together and get back to grading their dirt roads every two weeks like they used to, but don't count on it happening anytime soon.

Until then, it's worth the extra expense to rent an off-road-worthy vehicle instead of a sedan.

For our 13-day trip, we rented a VW Polo for $550 US all-in, including one-way fees, and spent about $260 US on gas. That's a total of $810 US.

A truck would've cost us closer to $1,500 and significantly more on gas. But the extra $800 US would have been worth it to be able to cover Namibia's miserable roads at twice the speed. This would have saved us around 15 hours of despair-inducing driving time.

Can I use the same SIM card in both South Africa and Namibia?

Unfortunately not.

Fortunately, they're easy to buy and set up at gas stations right across the border.

Who to rent from?

We searched far and wide and Around About easily had the best-prices for one-way rentals of sedans or SUVs.

If you have the budget for a camper truck, try Berg 4×4 Rentals , Britz , or Avis Safari Rentals .

Where to buy gear?

If you're renting a car or SUV without camping gear and driving from Cape Town to Namibia, make Milnerton Flea Market your first stop. We bought all our kitchenware there for less than $10 US combined and a couple of sleeping bags for only $11 US.

For whatever you can't find at Milnerton, and for things you want be sure stay in one piece (like our tent), go to Takealot.com , South Africa's version of Amazon.

What papers should I hold on to?

When you cross the South Africa-Namibia border you'll get a slip of paper confirming your car's been authorized to use the roads. Don't lose it because your rental car agency needs it to bring the car back over the border when you're done with it.

Is the currency the same in both countries?

The South African Rand and Namibian Dollar are worth exactly the same, but you can only use them interchangeably in Namibia.

Nobody accepts Namibian Dollars in South Africa so if you're driving from Namibia to South Africa, exchange your NAD for ZAR at a hotel or gas station before you cross the border.

Rest stop and gas station in Solitaire, Namibia

Is fuel the same price in both countries?

Gas is about 30% cheaper in Namibia than in South Africa, so fill up your tank on the Namibian side of the border.

What to buy if I'm going from Windhoek to Cape Town?

Don’t feel the need to load up on groceries too much in Windhoek because they aren't much cheaper than in other towns throughout the country, which all have supermarkets. Do load up on wine though, because you'll find little selection and big prices in smaller towns.

What to buy if I'm going from Cape Town to Windhoek?

Load up on nuts from Komati Foods in Woodstock, the cheapest place in Cape Town we've found, buy dried fruit from roadside padstals (farm stalls), and buy wine from wineries along the way.

What do I do with the camping gear I no longer need at the end of my trip?

In Windhoek, we found a new home for all of the camping gear we no longer needed by donating it to the homeless through Heaven Sent .

What time of day should I leave Cape Town?

Leave early.

Around lunchtime and from 3 to 7 p.m., rush hour traffic from Cape Town to the northern suburbs is a disaster.

Leaving early also gives you enough time to do tastings at wine farms in the Vredendal area, which generally close around 4 p.m.

Any more tips?

Yeah, we have extensive tips for both South Africa and Namibia. They share advice we wish we'd known before setting off:

Every tip and trick we learned for getting the most out of South Africa road trips
Namibia road trip tips to know before you hit the road

Cape Town to Namibia Itinerary

Be sure to go to our in-depth Namibian Road Trip Itinerary and Travel Blog for our complete breakdown of the highlights, lowlights, and tips.

Day 1: Cape Town to Vredendal
Day 2: Orange River
Day 3: Fish River Canyon and Aus
Day 4: NamibRand
Day 5: Sossusvlei
Day 6: Solitaire, Spreetshoogte, and Camp Gecko
Day 7: Walvis Bay and Moon Landscape
Day 8: Swakopmund
Day 9: Spitzkoppe and Camp Mara
Day 10: Kamanjab
Day 11: Etosha
Day 12: Etosha, Pt. 2
Day 13: Windhoek
Day 14: Goodbye

The Final Word

It was tough, but worth it.

Knowing what we do now, we think we made the right choice to do a one-way road trip from Cape Town to Windhoek rather than fly to Windhoek and do a loop from there.

We're glad we got to see more of Northwestern South Africa and Southern Namibia than we would have otherwise and we feel our route was more of an adventure than the standard loops that most visitors take from Windhoek.

Our only regret was renting a small car.

If you're still not convinced, please share your doubts with us in the comments below and we'll do our best to address them.

Read This Next:

How to Travel Cape Town Your Own Way: A Self-Travel Guide

Cape Town family day trip to Cape Peninsula cover image.

The Most Family-Friendly Cape Town Day Trip: The Cape Peninsula

Cape Town For Digital Nomads: The Ups and Downs

Cape Town travel blog cover image of Clifton Beach sunset

Cape Town Travel Blog: More than Mountains, Mandela, and Penguins

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12 thoughts on “Before Planning a Cape Town to Namibia Road Trip, Read This”

Hi Kim, hi Chris,

THANK YOU SO MUCH for your very insightful blog post!! We're heading from Cape Town to Namibia on Sunday and we are so excited. With your help, I feel very well prepared for the trip now!

Cheers Paulina

Hi Paulina. We're glad you found our post and found it helpful. Have an awesome trip and please (we mean it!), let us know how your trip goes, if you have any tips to add, or if you have any questions.

Namibia not for small cars and sissies my friend

I guess it's especially bad for sissies in small cars, then.

What pressure did you run your tyres at?

Hi Trevor. If I remember correctly, 1.8 on gravel, 2.3ish on paved roads. The guys at the Namibian gas stations are all well-versed in what tire pressure you need.

Thank you for this travel blog, my partner and I stay in Cape Town, and I even find this somewhat helpful. We plan on travelling Namibia in the next year or so. We definitely will not be taking a car, but rather 4X4. Your itinerary list is amazing.

Thanks, Sachan. Glad even Capetonians find value in this. Have a lekker trip!

Hi Kim & Chris just loved your story on Namibia and then video highlighting the special photo re Lamu. As a Capetonian and Kenyan I learnt so much, I would add by saying you learn most about the place you live when outsiders visit and you take them around. I am planning a trip to Namibia and wanted to know if you have any suggestions for staying near the Transfrontier National Park to allow day trips in and out of the park. Problem is the accommodation in the park gets booked up so quickly. Any thoughts welcome. Keep traveling Ron!

Thanks Ron! Good point on learning a lot about a place when you show visitors around. We used to rent out our second Airbnb in Vancouver and got a way broader understanding of the city through the eyes of our guests. I've yet to visit Transfrontier National Park, so can't help you with suggestions, sorry!

Was looking at some SA – Namibia border experiences. I read you can only bring 2 liters of wine. Did anyone check that? Was hoping to bring some great SA wines for our trip to Namibia and Botswana from SA.

Many thanks,

Hi Tim. Excellent idea to bring SA wines! We did the same and nobody checked. We didn't even think to check the rules on how much to bring, so maybe we got lucky.

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A Self-Drive Adventure: 3 Day Road Trip in Etosha National Park

Self-driving Etosha National Park: Everything you need to know for an epic safari trip

Road trip highlights.

Nighttime wildlife viewing at the floodlit waterhole at Okaukuejo Camp.
Cooling off in a private plunge pool in the wilderness.
Going a a guided game drive to a private waterhole.

Hi, I’m Sara, a twenty-something Swiss on a mission to become a full-time travel writer and digital nomad.

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Lion in Etosha National Park, Namibia | Photo credits: Sara Far Away

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Ultimate Namibia Itinerary: Self-Drive Road Trip (+ Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 28, 2024

Ultimate Namibia Itinerary: Self-Drive Road Trip (+ Map & Tips)

Namibia is a beautiful country that requires some slow traveling to truly appreciate it. It’s also a place that requires quite some advance research in order to make the most of your trip.

Planning a self-drive road trip in Namibia might look overwhelming at first. Distances are big, the roads aren’t great, and the accommodations are scarce and expensive…

So you are absolutely right looking for ideas for the Namibia itinerary and suggestions on how to best plan your road trip in advance!

We also struggled with the same questions before our trip. After a lot of research, we created an amazing itinerary and spent 4 weeks road-tripping in Namibia. It was the best road trip ever!

Below, you can find our detailed day-to-day Namibia road trip itinerary that covers all the must-see places and so much more. Our trip was very easy-going, so we also included suggestions for how you can see just as much in less time. You can also find Namibia itinerary tips for shorter trips. Find out!

Things to Consider When Preparing Namibia Itinerary

No matter how much time you have in Namibia, you will have to make choices when preparing your itinerary.

Here are a few things to consider:

There are very few highways in Namibia and most other roads are gravel. So you will – literally – need to slow down. That being said, it doesn’t mean that you need a month to see Namibia. In fact, many ‘standard’ Namibia trip itineraries are no longer than 10 or 14 days.
The distances between the main highlights are very big, so you cannot just visit the ‘top’ places and skip all the rest unless you opt for a fly-in safari.
When planning your trip , you’ll have to decide if you want to visit more places at a fast pace or travel slower and see more at fewer locations.
Before preparing your itinerary, consider if you also want to visit the South (Fish River Canyon) and/or the North (Caprivi Strip) of the country. Both these destinations are so far from all the rest that just driving there and back will add at least a few days to your trip.
Another possibility is to combine your Namibian road trip with Botswana and Victoria Falls. But only do this by car if you have a lot of time.
Or maybe you decide to just stick to the main highlights of Namibia and skip the less known locations… In that case, you can even see ‘the musts’ in a week.

The choice is completely yours to make depending on your interests, time, budget, and some other factors, like malaria risk, for example.

There are two main highlights that you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Namibia and that is Etosha National Park and Sossusvlei . Other highlights include Fish River Canyon , Kolmanskop , Swakopmund , and Twyfelfontein . But there are many other amazing places.

Having said all that, some of the very best, memorable experiences from our trip to Namibia had nothing to do with the most famous places… In our itinerary below, you can read all about it.

LEARN MORE: Best Places to Visit in Namibia

Our Namibia itinerary for 4 weeks

Before we continue with our Namibia road trip itinerary, you should know that this is a custom-made 4-week road trip itinerary that covers all of Namibia except the north. We prepared this Namibia itinerary for our family based on our interests and taking into account the fact that we were traveling to Namibia with three young children under 6.

Of course, we included all the landmarks and made sure to visit all the best places in Namibia! But we opted for multiple nights at several locations and for shorter driving days when we could. Also, we didn’t go to the Caprivi Strip in order to avoid malaria risk.

TIP: You could easily shorten this Namibia itinerary and still see about just as much as we did in about 3 weeks. And certainly, if you are camping and are less dependent on the location of accommodations. You can find some itinerary suggestions for 2 or 3 weeks in Namibia at the bottom of this article. Read on!

Here’s our Namibia road trip itinerary exactly as we did it:

Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek. Windhoek – Kalahari Desert. Eningu Clayhouse Lodge for 1 night. 110 km – 2hrs.

After picking up the rental car where we also got a short instruction video about driving on gravel, we headed to Windhoek for a short city walk and to stack on supplies of food and drinks for the next few days.

TIP: Check this website for an overview of some of the best options for car rental. We recommend getting a 4×4 for your Namibia trip.

We opted to spend our first night outside of the city. We stayed at Eningu Clayhouse Lodge in the Kalahari desert and I would recommend this to everyone. Not necessarily this specific lodge, but staying outside of the city.

We felt that we were in Africa the moment we left the highway. We saw wild animals next to the road and we spent our first afternoon in the hot tub. We saw an amazing sunset and spent our first evening dining under the stars.

TIP: Don’t stay in Windhoek. Choose one of the many lodges outside the city. If you decide to go straight down to the south and rather stay closer to the main road to Mariental, I recommend checking Auas Safari Lodge . It’s not too far from Windhoek and has great reviews!

Children on a family trip to Namibia in Kalahari desert at sunset

Day 2: Kalahari desert. Drive to Mariental. Gondwana Kalahari Anib Lodge for 1 night. 270 km, 4-5hrs.

Long drive through the Kalahari desert today. The scenery is nice, but there are no major points of interest along the way here, so we drove straight to our next accommodation.

We arrived at our next lodge, Gondwana Kalahari Anib Lodge , just in time for a late afternoon safari ride and a sundowner. It was the first one during this trip and we loved it! We got bitten by a sundowner bug and tried to go on as many sundowners as possible during the rest of our trip.

TIP: Don’t miss Namibian sundowners, do at least one! All lodges in Namibia organize sundowner/safari rides, so make sure you get to your lodge in time for the late afternoon ride.

Day 3 : Mariental – Fish River Canyon. Canyon Lodge for 2 nights. 410 km – 6hrs.

Long drive from Mariental to Fish River Canyon, but luckily the first part was on a tarmac road.

We stopped at the Quiver Tree Forest and made a short walk around the Giant’s Playground before continuing South towards the Fish River Canyon. The last couple of hours we were driving through the desolate and very uninspiring landscape, but the surroundings of our next lodge were so beautiful that we quickly forgot the long drive.

Our accommodation for two nights was a beautiful Gondwana Canyon Lodge – one of the nicest places we stayed during this trip!

A bit cheaper accommodation located in a similar spectacular setting is the nearby Gondwana Canyon Village .

TIP: If you are looking for accommodation with views over the Fish River Canyon, take a look at Fish River Lodge . It has an amazing location!

Day 4 : Fish River Canyon

There are many possibilities to explore the Fish River Canyon . You can also opt for some other excursions in the area. We simply chose to drive to the canyon and explore several viewpoints.

In the morning, we drove to a couple of lookouts and made a walk on the rim of the canyon.

TIP for families traveling with children: In the afternoon we headed to a nearby Canyon Roadhouse for lunch.

We chose this place because we knew our kids would love it there. They have a big collection of all kinds of old vehicles. A paradise for our boys!

Canyon Roadhouse at Fish River Canyon Namibia

In the evening, we opted for a sundowner walk at our lodge and enjoyed the most beautiful Namibian sunset in style.

Namibia packing list for July August September June

Day 5 : Fish River Canyon – Klein Aus Vista. Desert Horse Inn for 2 nights. 290 km – 4hrs.

A long drive again with some beautiful landscapes along the way. Our lodge, Desert Horse Inn , was not half as nice as the previous one, but there wasn’t anything better available in this area when we traveled. Now I’d recommend staying at the highly-rated Bahnhof Hotel Aus .

There are lots of hiking trails in the area and so we spent the afternoon hiking. The walk was much nicer than we had expected.

TIP: Go hiking in the area around Klein Aus Vista.

Day 6 : Klein Aus Vista – Luderitz/ Kolmanskop – Klein Aus Vista. 115 km – 1,5 hrs in one direction.

The highlight of the day was our visit to Kolmanskop . It’s a ghost town that was once the home to German diamond miners seeking to make their fortune in the Namibian desert.

Nowadays, Kolmansop is a real paradise for photographers. Our kids loved it too!

TIP: Go to Kolmanskop early in the morning for better pictures and fewer people.

We also paid a short visit to Luderitz , but found it a rather uninspiring little town. We also spent some time hoping to find the wild horses of Namib in Garub . No luck for us, but this place is known for that, so check it out if passing by.

Day 7 : Klein Aus Vista – Sossusvlei. Sossus Dune Lodge for 2 nights. 350 km – 5hrs.

Long ride from Aus to Sossusvlei, but it didn’t feel that long since we took the scenic route and drove through the most amazing landscape. Red sand roads, oryx antelopes, ostriches, and all kinds of other wild animals added plenty of distraction for the kids along the way.

TIP: Take route C27 and not C14+C19 – it might be slower, but it’s really worth it.

We opted to stay at the Sossus Dune Lodge as it’s the only lodge that is inside the park allowing the guests to get to the Sossusvlei before sunrise and after sunset. We went to Elim dune to watch the sunset.

TIP: Sossusvlei Lodge, located just outside the park gates, is actually nicer accommodation and it’s cheaper too. The only disadvantage is that you can’t enter the park before sunrise.

Day 8 : Sossusvlei

Deadvlei, Sossusvlei, Dune 45, and the Sesriem canyon were the highlights today. Top day for the kids as well. They loved climbing the sand dunes and they loved rolling down the dunes even more…

We woke up very early and drove to Sossusvlei before sunrise. We then walked to Deadvlei in the dark and stayed there until sunrise. It was freezing cold, but an amazing experience. We had the popular Deadvlei all to ourselves.

TIP: If you are up for it, you can climb one of the dunes for sunrise views. Dune 45 along the way to Sossusvlei is a good place for that if you can’t make it to Sossusvlei or Deadvlei before sunrise.

Day 9 : Sossusvlei – Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge for 1 night. 140 km, 2 hrs.

TIP: When driving from Sossusvlei to the north, stop at Solitaire petrol station/restaurant for some of their famous apple pie.

Most people drive from Sossusvlei all the way to Swakopmund in one day. We opted to break the long drive between Sossuvlei to Swakopmund and spend a night in Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge .

The lodge itself is not very special, but there are lots of excursion possibilities in the area and they have a meerkat encounter , which was again one of the highlights for the kids.

We ended the day with another beautiful sundowner ride and some incredibly delicious food. The restaurant at this lodge was probably the best of our entire 4-weeks trip in Namibia!

Day 10 : Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge – Swakopmund for 3 nights. 230 km – 3,5 hrs.

After 10 days in the desert, we were so glad to be back in the living world again! We stopped in Walvis Bay for lunch. We could even choose from more than one restaurant! What a luxury.

TIP: Walvis Bay Lagoon with thousands of wild flamingos was absolutely the highlight of the day. Don’t miss it!

We stayed in Swakopmund, alternatively, you can stay in Walvis Bay. The two towns are not far from each other, but we found that Swakopmund has a much nicer atmosphere, more hotel and restaurant choices, and more activities and day trips that leave from there.

We stayed at the Atlantic Sicht Apartment in Swakopmund and absolutely loved it. It was like a home away from home.

Here you can find the best deals for Swakopmund accommodation or Walvis Bay accommodation . This area is the only place in Namibia where you can find a big choice of quality accommodation for any budget.

Days 11 – 12 : Swakopmund and the area

Swakopmund is a nice little town with many shops, restaurants, and cafés. It’s definitely the nicest town in Namibia and 3 nights is certainly not too much for a stay here. In fact, you could easily stay here longer and find plenty of things to see and do.

TIP: Have lunch or dinner at the Village Café (Sam Nujoma Avenue).

There are many excursion possibilities in and around Swakopmund , so you will have no difficulties finding something that interests you. Here you can find some of the most popular tours from Swakopmund .

The most popular tours are the dolphin- and whale-watching catamaran tour from Walvis Bay, Moon Landscape and Welwitschia Drive , and 4×4 tour to Sandwich Harbour (or this amazing kayaking and Sandwich Harbour combo tour ). There are many more possibilities too, but the above are worth your time the most.

TIP (just for our readers – don’t tell anyone ;)): Even though Spitzkoppe is not included in most Namibia trip itineraries, it’s one of our absolute favorite places in Namibia. It’s only 1,5 hrs drive from Swakopmund and you can make a nice half day-day trip to the area.

Take water, picnic lunch, and walking shoes with you and explore this beautiful area. If you are camping, Spitzkoppe has the most amazing campsites you could imagine. Don’t miss it!

You can drive there or take a tour to Spitzkoppe if you want a more relaxing day or don’t have a 4×4.

Day 13 : Swakopmund – Twyfelfontein via Cape Cross. 411 km – 6+hrs. Twyfelfontein Country Lodge for 1 night.

TIP: Leave Swakopmund early in the morning if you want to go to Cape Cross first. It’s a long drive to Twyfelfontein and Cape Cross is a bit out of the way. But it’s absolutely worth it!

Cape Cross is home to a huge seal colony (tens of thousands of seals live here) and you can get amazingly close to them. An experience like no other!

If you have time left, you can visit Petrified Forest on the road to Twyfelfntein or drive to the Burnt Mountain for sunset.

We stayed at Twyfelfontein Country Lodge – one of the very few lodging options in this area. Alternatively, check out Malansrus or Madisa Camp – both very unique tented accommodations, but Malansrus is a bit closer to Twyfelfontein.

Day 14 : Twyfelfontein – Palmwag. Palmwag Lodge for 2 nights. 115 km – 1h45.

Twyfelfontein UNESCO Heritage Site is absolutely worth the visit. You will be assigned a guide who will take you to the cavemen’s paintings and will tell you all you want to know about ancient rock art.

TIP: Go to Twyfelfontein early in the morning before it gets busy. The most recommended walk is the Lion Man Route . Take water with you.

If you are interested in the local culture, pay a short visit to the Damara Living Museum . It’s not an authentic experience as it’s not a real village you are visiting, but one with paid actors, but it’s still interesting to see how people used to live in the area.

We stayed 2 nights at Palmwag Lodge . A really nice alternative in this area is Grootberg Lodge , or otherwise a more simple accommodation – Etendeka Mountain Camp .

Twyfelfontein bushmen paintings Lion Man Route

Day 15 : Palmwag

Free day in the Palmwag area. There are several excursion and safari ride possibilities at the lodge.

We opted for the safari and Himba village tour and had the most amazing day. The Himba village we visited was not comparable to the Damara ‘living museum’ we saw the other day. We met a real Himba family, saw the way they really live, and the interaction with the people was real.

Our kids went to play with their children, they were chasing the goats and the chicken and seemed to be having the time of their lives. Safari in the Palmwag area was also one of the best ones of our whole trip.

TIP: Visit a local Himba village.

LEARN MORE: Visiting Namibia’s Indigenous Tribes

Days 16 – 19 : Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is one of the best places to see in Namibia. So make sure to plan at least 2-3 days here. Here’s what our time in Etosha looked like:

Day 16 – Palmwag – Etosha. Dolomite Camp for 1 night. 230 km – 3.5hrs Day 17 – Dolomite Camp – Okaukuejo. 180 km – 4hrs. Okaukuejo Rest Camp for 2 nights. Day 18 – Etosha. Day 19 – Etosha: Okaukuejo – Mushara. 153 km – 2h15

There are plenty of possibilities to see wild animals in Etosha. The best times are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and the best places are around the waterholes. The very best place to see lots of animals without much effort is the Okaukuejo waterhole.

READ ALSO: Safari Tips & Safari with Kids

We stayed at three hotels in Etosha NP: Dolomite Camp and Okaukuejo Rest Camp – government-run properties inside Etosha, and a beautiful Mushara Lodge outside the park.

Etosha is absolutely the highlight of any Namibian trip, but I cannot say the same about the Dolomite Camp. It’s a beautiful but completely mismanaged place.

Okaukuejo Rest Camp offers simple accommodation, but it has an amazing location that makes up for the simple rooms.

Mushara Lodge was absolutely incredible and we wished we had stayed longer there.

LEARN MORE: Best Places to Stay in Etosha National Park

TIP: If you are looking for the best location for Etosha, stay at Okaukuejo Rest Camp or at one of the beautiful hotels just outside the park gates at Okaukuejo . If you want to stay at the eastern side of Etosha as well, I cannot recommend Mushara Lodge highly enough.

Day 20 : Mushara – Otjiwarongo area. 300 km – 4hrs. Frans Indongo Lodge for 2 nights.

The only place that was somewhat worth a visit on this day was Lake Otjikoto. It’s more of a place to stretch your legs a bit than anything else.

We stayed at the Frans Indongo Lodge for 2 nights. The area around Frans Indongo was not very spectacular, but it was well located for a day trip to see cheetahs next day.

There are several walking trails next to the lodge, but if I were to go to Namibia again, I would only stay here for one night (or find an alternative hotel).

Day 21 : Cheetah Conservation Fund and Crocodile Farm

Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) is a place you shouldn’t miss when planning Namibia road trip. It’s a serious honest project helping the animals and you have several possibilities to see cheetahs from close by. Count half a day for the visit.

TIP: If you are traveling without kids, try to get there for the Cheetah Run early in the morning. With children, we could go on a jeep ride and saw plenty of cheetahs from the safety of the car.

We also visited the Crocodile Ranch in Otjiwarongo. You can see lots of crocodiles and even pet one so the kids liked it, but it’s not something you absolutely have to do. A good stop for half an hour for families passing by, but not more.

Days 22 – 23 : Erindi Private Game Reserve. Old Traders Lodge for 2 nights.

These two days were among the most memorable of the entire trip of 4 weeks in Namibia! Erindi is an amazing all-in safari lodge that truly has it all.

Day 22 : Otjiwarongo – Erindi Private Game Reserve. 270 km – 4 hrs. We drove to Erindi as early as we could so that we could join some of the activities on the first day already.

Day 23 : Erindi. If there is one lodge I would love to go back to in Namibia, it’s Erindi Old Traders Lodge !

It was also the most expensive lodge on our Namibia itinerary, but absolutely worth it. We had an all-in package with two safari rides per day and all the meals included. There are many other activities that you can do in Erindi. Visiting the local San tribe was one of them, and also various safari rides, etc.

What we loved the most about our stay in Erindi was the restaurant terrace at the Old Traders Lodge. It overlooks a waterhole where we spent many relaxing hours eating cake, sipping cold drinks, and watching wild animals come and go.

If Erindi is above your budget, you can also just visit here for a day. The restaurant with the terrace overlooking a waterhole is accessible to everyone and they also offer safari rides and other activities to visitors who aren’t staying at the lodge. Erindi is a bit out of the way when driving from Etosha to Windhoek, but you’ll absolutely love it.

Elephant chasing hippos at Erindi waterhole

Day 24: Erindi – Windhoek. 220 km – 3hrs. Na’ankuse Lodge for 1 night.

Depending on your flight schedule, you could drive straight to the airport and skip Windhoek altogether on the last day.

We opted to stay at Erindi a bit longer and drove to Na’ankuse Lodge close to the airport towards the evening. The lodge proudly displays pictures of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie who visited here back when they were a couple.

This lodge also has all kinds of activities including wildlife watching and they also have cheetahs. But we only arrived here in the evening, too late for any rides. So we only had dinner at the lodge and I cannot comment on the activities, however, customer reviews are excellent.

Day 25: Windhoek and departure

Since we had plenty of time before our flight, we headed back to the center of Windhoek. It was a bit livelier than on the first day of our trip and we enjoyed walking around the Post Street Mall . It’s a pedestrian mall lined with shops, restaurants, office buildings, and craft sellers and is probably the liveliest place in town.

We had a quiet late lunch at the famous Joe’s Beer House in Windhoek and headed to the airport for the flight home.

As you can see, our Namibia trip itinerary was a mix of seeing a lot and a more relaxing vacation. As I said, you could easily visit all the same places in Namibia in less time.

What could you skip or shorten? See our suggestions for a shorter Namibia itinerary below!

Namibia Trip Itinerary Suggestions for 2 or 3 weeks

Following our 4-week itinerary above, here’s how you could adjust it to make it shorter:

If Kolmanskop is not of much interest to you, you could skip day 6 of the itinerary.
You could visit Sossusvlei in the morning and leave the area that same afternoon. If you don’t mind driving a lot (and I mean a lot), you could go straight to Swakopmund and skip days 9 and 10. In any case, you can easily skip one day here.
If you have limited time, you could stay just 2 nights in Swakopmund instead of 3, skip Palmwag altogether (it’s a bit out of the way if you don’t go to the Dolomite Camp), and spend less time in Etosha.
You could also stay just one night in the Otjiwarongo area, see cheetahs in the morning and drive straight to Windhoek.
If you opt to stay at Erindi or one of the many other private reserves in the area, you can stay there till the last day of your trip and go straight to the airport from there.

I know that planning the Namibia itinerary can be overwhelming and this is a lot of information to digest, so feel free to ask questions. You can leave a reply below.

TIP: When planning your trip, make sure to also take a look at our essential travel tips for Namibia via the link below. That article has all the information about driving in Namibia, what kind of car you need, and other tips for touring Namibia on a self drive trip. Check it out!

An Incredible 10-Day Namibia Road Trip Itinerary

September 5, 2021 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Lauren Melnick

If you follow me on Instagram , you’ll know I recently got back from a two-month trip to Namibia .

It was my second trip to the country this year, and my feed has been an explosion of desert landscapes, epic hot air balloon adventures, and ticking off some of Namibia’s top attractions.

And after doing a Namibia travel Q&A, I had an influx of people asking me two things:

“Please make all this information a Story highlight.”
“Hurry up and post your Namibia blog posts!”

So here it is.

All the tips, information, and destinations you need to know about to plan an unforgettable Namibia road trip itinerary!

Without further adieu, let’s dive into this behemoth.

Psst…Want more Namibia travel tips and road trip inspo? Check out these other posts:

Staying at Desert Grace: A Top Luxury Eco Lodge in Namibia
20 Incredible Visa-Free Countries South Africans Need to Visit in 202 1
The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List (+ Free Checklist!)
10+ Spectacular Road Trips in South Africa You Can’t Miss!
10+ of the Cheapest African Countries You Need to Visit

Table of Contents

Keep an Eye on Your Fuel Tank

Don’t drive at night, road trip namibia solo or in a group, pick the right car, travel & car insurance , get a local sim card, covid travel requirements for namibia, the best time to visit namibia, where to stay in windhoek, things to do in windhoek, where to stay in luderitz, things to do in luderitz, where to stay in sossusvlei, things to do near swakopmund, where to stay in swakopmund, where to stay in spitzkoppe, where to stay in etosha, etosha to windhoek (1 day), even more bucket list namibia attractions, what to pack for a namibia road trip, cost of accommodation in namibia, car rental and petrol costs in namibia, entrance fees for national parks, food costs in namibia, flights to namibia from south africa, travelling to namibia faq, namibia road trip safety tips.

“Is it safe to drive in Namibia?”

That’s one of the top questions in my DMs.

The short answer? Yes! Namibia is a safe self-drive destination. Hopping in your car and driving into the arid desert is one of the best ways to explore the country.

However, there are a few things you do need to keep in mind.

Namibia is the second least densely populated country in the world. With a population of only 2 million and an area of 825,400 square kilometres, you can drive for hours and not see another car.

When you couple this with the long drive times between attractions, and few and far petrol stations in between – you could run out of fuel in the middle of nowhere if you’re not careful.

Before you set out on your Namibia self-drive trip, go onto Google Maps and make a note of the petrol stations and where you’re going to fill up.

Tip: Work out your car’s fuel efficiency so you know exactly how many kilometres you’re going to get from one full tank of fuel.

Once you leave a big city like Windhoek, you won’t find a single street light until you reach the next town.

While no light pollution is music to any astrophotographer’s ears, it’s dangerous to anyone on the roads after dark.

You could hit big animals like Oryx or not see a pothole in time.

…And that’s a sure-fire way to spend your travel fund on insurance premiums.

Tip: Plan your Namibia road trip route to leave after sunrise and arrive before sunset.

Okay, hear me out.

You can self-drive Namibia alone, but only if you prepare for sh*t to the fan.

With how remote the country is and the lack of cell signal, if you get stuck or have an accident, you might have to wait hours for someone to drive past.

If you want to road trip Namibia solo, make sure you have:

Satellite phone
Emergency service numbers
Tools for changing a tyre
Knowledge to get your car unstuck from a sand dune

For everyone else, I’d recommend going in a group for safety.

And if you want to go up to the Skeleton Coast, go in a convoy (not one car), so you have another vehicle to help in case you get stuck.

Do you need a 4×4 in Namibia? Yes and no.

You can reach some destinations with a normal vehicle. The road to Sossusvlei has been upgraded in recent years, and there is a tar road from the park gates until the first Dead Vlei parking lot.

But due to the conditions of the gravel roads, it’s better to use a 4×4. Plus, if you want to explore more remote regions and tackle the dunes, you’ll need an off-road vehicle.

World Nomads Travel Insurance offers some of the best coverage for travellers. No matter where in the world you go, you’ll have cover for over 150 adventure activities and travel hiccups like unplanned hospital and doctor visits.

If you’re a digital nomad and travel to Namibia for a month or more, I recommend Safety Wing . It’s travel insurance for long-term travellers and has remote health care insurance as well.

For car insurance, you shouldn’t skimp on this option. We got caught in a sandstorm en route to Luderitz that stripped the paint off the car and pockmarked the entire windscreen.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Grab an MTC sim card and sign up for the Supa Aweh package. It has the best value for money in terms of the amount of data and talk time you’ll get.

The only catch? It expires after a week.

If you plan to stay in Namibia for longer as I did, I topped up my data bundles as I ran out.

Namibia’s borders are open to international travellers, but there are a few travel requirements you’ll need to meet.

72-hour negative PCR test on arrival.
72-hour negative PCR test on departure.

You do not need to self-isolate or go into a mandatory government quarantine .

To get your negative COVID test to leave Namibia, you can go to Pathcare testing stations. Pathcare has depots in Walvis Bay and Windhoek, and you do need to pre-book a timeslot.

Cost: NAD 850

If you want to go private, I highly recommend NamibTest. There is no waiting in lines, you’ll have your tests back in 7 to 24-hours, and you can book your appointment online.

Note: There are only testing stations or home visits in Windhoek and Swakopmund.

Cost: From NAD 950

When is the best time of year to visit Namibia? October.

The heat of summer hasn’t arrived yet, the chill of winter has melted away, and the wildflowers are in bloom.

And if that’s not enough to tempt you, this will. October is a shoulder season for Namibia. It’s coming right off the heels of the country’s busiest months (June to August) which means you can scoop up incredible accommodation deals, and the crowds at Dead Vlei are minimal.

But if you want to avoid melting like a popsicle, the winter months (June to August) are a firm favourite for a reason. You won’t have a rain cloud in sight, temperatures are cool, and you’ll have incredible wildlife sightings in Etosha National Park.

Namibia Road Trip Itinerary

Special thanks to Mat-Travel Safaris and Tours for helping me plan both my Namibia road trips, organising all the logistics, and driving me around!

I’ve only flown into Namibia for a road trip. However, it’s totally possible to drive up from Cape Town or elsewhere in South Africa .

There is a main road you can follow, and it’s in good condition. If you decide to drive, remember to read up on what you’ll need to present at the border (i.e. car paperwork) and what food you can and cannot take across into Namibia.

Here is my Namibia road trip itinerary starting from Windhoek!

Windhoek (1 Day)

Fly into Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) and spend one night in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital city.

Trust me. You’ll want a bit of a breather before the madness of the road trip kicks into full gear. It will also give you time to grab a local sim card and check out the food scene.

After a good night’s rest, buckle up and get ready to start driving towards Luderitz in the morning.

Chameleon Backpackers
Windhoek Country Club Resort
Am Weinberg Boutique Hotel
Have dinner at Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro (not vegan friendly)
Visit Christuskirche (a gingerbread looking church)

Windhoek to Luderitz (1-2 Days)

Distance: 684 km
Time: 7-hours 35 min

From Windhoek, you can drive straight through to Luderitz, BUT that’s a hectic 8-hour drive.

Instead, break up your trip with a stop in Keetmanshoop . It’s home to Namibia’s famous quiver tree forest! We originally planned to stay on the farm where these trees are found, but a COVID break at the accommodation meant we had to cancel our booking.

If you have more time, you can opt-in for a more popular route to Luderitz: Windhoek – Kalahari – Fish River Canyon – Luderitz.

Once you get to Luderitz, you can spend one or two days exploring the Kolmanskop Ghost Town. Once a thriving diamond mining town, it was abandoned to the elements in the 1950s. Over the decades, the desert has slowly taken over the buildings.

I would recommend spending two days here if you’re a photographer. It will give you time to scope out your shots and two opportunities to shoot at sunrise.

An extra day also means you have a buffer day in case the weather is bad.

Cost: Permits for sunrise and sunset are NAD 300 or NAD150 if you go in during daytime hours.

The Cormorant House

Lüderitz to Sossusvlei (2 Days)

Distance: 498 km
Time: 6-hours 27 min

Next, you’re off to one of my favourite places in Namibia – Sossusvlei! Here, you’ll find the petrified Dead Vlei and the famous Dune 45 (the most photographed dune in the world!)

There are so many incredible ways to experience the desert while you’re here:

Go on a hot air balloon ride with Namib Sky
Sign up for a sunset nature drive into the dunes (available at Le Mirage)
Climb Big Momma and Big Daddy dunes
See Deadvlei and Sossusvlei
Take photos at the dunes lining the road up to Deadvlei
Keep an eye out for the Oryx!

Tip: Come inside the park for one sunset and one sunrise to experience the dunes in a different light! And don’t forget water if you plan on climbing any of the dunes.

Kulala Desert Lodge (private access to Sossusvlei)
Sesriem Campsite (campsite inside the park)
Le Mirage (an hour drive to Sossusvlei)
Gondwana Desert Grace Lodge

Read More: Staying at Desert Grace: A Top Luxury Eco Lodge in Namibia

Sossusvlei to Swakopmund (2 Days)

Distance: 403 km
Time: 5-hours

After an incredible two days in Sossusvlei, drive up the coast to Swakopmund. This little town is an excellent spot to have a breather and experience more of Namibia’s top attractions.

But before you pull into town, add Solitaire to your GPS and stop by for the famous apple crumble pie. 😍

Feast your heart out! It’s 100% worth it!

If you’re short on time, you can end your Namibia road trip itinerary here and fly out of Walvis Bay Airport. It’s a 35-minute drive away, or you could drive back to Windhoek (3-hours away) and depart from Hosea Kutako International Airport.

Read More: How To Book Cheap Flights From South Africa To Your Dream Destination

Sandwich Harbour: Sign up for a half-day tour with Mola Mola Safaris and experience the size of the dunes first-hand. You drive next to the waves breaking on the beach and go on a roller coaster ride into the dunes. 12/10 would recommend – just make sure you sit in the front if you get car sick.
Seal Kayaking Tour: This takes place in Walvis Bay, but you can easily organise a pick up with the tour company.
Quad Biking: Dune 7 Adventures has an amazing quad biking sunset tour! It’s one of the best things I did in Namibia, and the views were incredible!
Flamingoes: Walvis Bay (a short 30-minute drive from Swakopmund) is famous for its gigantic flamingo population. Walk along the promenade, and you’ll see a sea of pink -heart eyes-
Architecture: Walk around Swakopmund and explore the town’s beautiful German architecture. My favourite building is the old railway station.
Skeleton Coast: If you have an extra day, book a day trip up to the Skeleton Coast. You can see the shipwrecks that litter Namibia’s coast. Or, if you want to save time, you can book a scenic flight and see the wrecks from above.

Tip: The Skeleton Coast is super remote and has no cell signal. It’s best to go with someone who knows the area and can help if your car gets stuck.

All African Colours
Hansa Hotel
Strand Hotel

Swakopmund to Spitzkoppe (1-2 Days)

Distance: 152 km
Time: 1-hour 38 min

Only a 3-hour drive from Swakopmund lies another firm favourite – Spitzkoppe. Located in Damaraland, a breathtaking mountainous region where you’ll find locals selling crystals, desert lions, elephants and zebras.

With so much epicness going on, it’s not hard to see why it’s one of the most photographed places in Namibia!

And the star of the show? The famous “arch”.

For photographers, shoot the arch at sunrise. Sunset works as well, but I find that the sunrise photos look better.

If you’re not into boulders or landscape photography, Spitzkoppe is an incredible star-gazing destination in Namibia. Pack your tripod and plan your trip in line with the new moon for spectacular Milky Way shots !

On my first Namibia road trip, this was our final stop before driving back to Windhoek to fly back home. You can do the same or continue further north.

Spitzkoppe Tented Camp : 12/10 would recommend staying here. It’s only a short drive to the entrance.
Spitzkoppe Campsites : You can camp inside the park, but it’s wild camping, and you’ll need to bring everything with you.
Spitzkoppen Lodge : A more luxurious option.

Spitzkoppe to Etosha (3 Days)

Distance: 460 km

Got the time to explore more of Namibia? Head up to Etosha National Park.

You can start in Swakopmund, skip Spitzkoppe and spend one night at Madisa Camp in Damaraland (3-hour drive) before driving at Anderson’s Gate on the C38 (4-hour drive).

If you’re coming from Spitzkoppe, the drive is 5-hours to the gate.

Once you’re inside, I’d recommend spending at least three days in Etosha. It will give you more than enough time to explore the park, and if you book accommodation within Etosha, you’ll have extra time for spotting the famous ghost elephants, big cats, and all the other wildlife.

The downside? The chalets inside the park are government-owned and aren’t in the best condition. My rooms at different camps had cockroaches, I didn’t always have hot water, and you can hear other people showering.

Plus, if you book the breakfast and dinner option, it’s not super vegetarian or vegan friendly . Learn from my mistakes and pack your own food if you don’t like eating meat.

What are ghost elephants? Regular ol’ African elephants that bathe in the park’s white clay and calcite sand, turning their grey skin white.

Okaukuejo Camp : Book the premium waterhole chalets if you can.
Halali Camp : My favourite Etosha camp that was in a better condition than Okaukuejo and near to the one leopard’s local hangout.
Mushara Lodge : A luxury camp outside of Etosha on the Eastern side of the park.
Little Ongava : A luxury lodge 5 minutes from Etosha’s gates.

Distance: 457 km
Time: 4-hours 37 min

If you don’t want to spend a night in Windhoek, book an afternoon flight out. Etosha is only a 4-hour drive away, and if you leave early enough, you can make it in time for your final leg back home.

We did this on our first Namibia road trip.

There are a few other destinations you can check out for those that have more time for a longer Namibia road trip itinerary:

Caprivi Strip
Fish River Canyon
Twyfelfontein
Waterberg Plateau National Park
Epupa Falls
Hoba Meteorite
Welwitschia Drive
Sesriem Canyon
Quiver Tree Forest

Before you start your Namibia road trip, there are a few essentials that you’ll want to make sure are in your car:

Spare tyre, spanner, and jack
Tyre repair spray for punctures
A cell phone charger for the car and a power bank
Credit card and cash (don’t forget to unlock your card for international travel)
Downloaded Spotify road trip playlist (you won’t have signal the entire time for online streaming)
Offline version of Google Maps, Garmin, or old school map book
A torch or headlamp
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
Soy milk if you don’t drink dairy (pick this up in Windhoek or Walvis Bay)
Snacks for the car

Read More: The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List (+ Free Checklist!)

Namibia Road Trip Cost

Your Namibia road trip budget will vary depending on your travelling style, how far you drive, and how many days you spend in the country.

Here is a quick breakdown of what you can expect to pay in Namibia:

Camping: Camping is the cheapest accommodation option in Namibia. You can bring your camping gear, hire some from an overland company, or stay in tented camps. Prices for campsites in Namibia average around NAD 200.

Lodges: Staying in a lodge or guesthouse in Namibia varies widely. You can book at mid-range places for NAD 800 per person per night or splurge on an ultra-luxe lodge starting at NAD 7000 per person.

The cost of renting a car in Namibia depends on the type of car you choose and if you’re travelling during high or low season. On average, a 4×4 rental (without camping gear) for 7-days will start at NAD 1020 per day for a 7-day trip, and if you want camping included, it can go up to NAD 2500 during peak season.

Next, you’ll need to budget for petrol. Luckily, it’s cheaper than South Africa. The price per litre is usually around NAD 13. To give you an example, my trip from Walvis Bay to Etosha cost NAD 2,400 for three tanks of fuel.

The entrance fees in Namibia aren’t crazy expensive.

SADC nationals will pay around NAD 50 – NAD 70 and everyone else NAD 100 to NAD 150. Car fees are between NAD 20 to NAD 50, depending on your nationality.

If you’re staying at self-catering places, you can keep your food costs pretty low. The prices for some food items are slightly more expensive in Spar or at petrol stations as many things are imported.

Eating out at restaurants is on par with South African prices. You can expect main meal dishes to be average around R80 to R150. Non-vegetarian meals do cost more.

I paid R3500 for a return flight from Cape Town to Walvis Bay and around the same amount for my flights from Johannesburg to Windhoek.

To get the best flight prices, use Skyscanner . You can quickly see what months are the cheapest to fly to Namibia and what days airlines hike up the prices.

What injections do I need for Namibia? There are no required vaccines for Namibia. However, always double-check with your doctor what shots you should get before travelling to Namibia. Some of the advised vaccines are Hepatitis B, Rabies, Typhoid, and Cholera.
Do I need malaria tablets for Namibia? There are some areas in Namibia where malaria is a high risk, especially during the rainy season. Again, speak to your doctor to get up-to-date medical advice and get malaria tablets that work best for you.
Can I drink the water in Namibia? Yes, you can drink tap water in Namibia. However, always double-check when you are staying at lodges and campsites outside of the main cities.
How many days should I spend in Namibia? With huge distances to cover between Namibia attractions, you should aim to spend between 10 to 14 days or more in Namibia.

Woo hoo! Congrats on making it to the end of this gigantic but EPIC Namibia road trip itinerary! Got any questions I didn’t answer? Hit ya gurl up in the comments below.

If you like it, then you should put a pin on it!

Going on a Namibia road trip is one of the best ways to explore the country. Here's everything you need to know about planning an epic trip!

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

September 6, 2021 at 6:22 am

Love this! So helpful. Did you visit the skeleton coast? Will it be part of the trip you’re organizing next year? Also how’s the covid situation in Namibia?

September 6, 2021 at 8:26 am

I went as far as Henties Bay and saw one shipwreck. But I didn’t technically go into Skeleton Coast NP. For the trip, we are probably not going to do it just because of time and wanting to keep things at a specific price point.

Covid situation is more or less the same as SA and the rest of the world. You just need to wear a mask etc. like we do here.

December 24, 2021 at 11:05 am

Hello Lauren, its been my dream to visit Namibia with my family- we are 5 in total. however, after having looked at costs it seems to be an unreachable dream. I would love to road trip and would have to hire a 4*4 to do this, so that is definitely an additional cost as I don’t own one currently. Then its accommodation for 5 people, which I dont really mind rouging it out a bit, I’m not sure camping is an option for us though (but if it comes down to it we may have to) Then there’s the cost of all the covid tests. What would you recommend is best route for a family of 5 who wants to do a road trip (but preferably not alone as we are not too experienced). it must be the kinda trip youv’e described with the opportunity to take in all the key destinations and basically following your itinerary? we would have mx 10 days available to us to do this. tough question, but what should a trip like this cost me?

December 24, 2021 at 1:15 pm

Hey! I think the best option for you would be to sign up for a group tour of Namibia. You won’t be alone and you’ll have a clear idea of the costs upfront x

March 29, 2022 at 5:31 am

Hello Lauren, this is so helpful, thank you! Namibia sounds so magical – we’d like to book a road trip in May. Could you suggest any affordable group tour? We will fly from Joburg.

March 29, 2022 at 10:48 am

Hey Lara! I’m hosting a group trip to Namibia in May. You can see the trip itinerary and all the costs here: https://wandertohere.com/trips/namibia-7-day-overland-tour/

Cape Town to Namibia Road Trip: South Africa + Fish River Canyon + Etosha + Windhoek

This epic Cape Town to Namibia road trip travels up the West Coast of South Africa via Langebaan, the Cederberg Mountains & Springbok to the mighty Fish River Canyon , before continuing via the Succulent Karoo & Luderitz to the sand dunes of the Namib Desert, Swakopmund, the Bushman Paintings at Twyfelfontein & the wildlife of Etosha National Park , ending in Windhoek .

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TRAVELLING THE WORLD SOLO

The ultimate guide for independent travellers seeking inspiration, advice and adventures beyond their wildest dreams

The ULTIMATE Guide + Itinerary for an EPIC Road Trip Through NAMIBIA

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When I think back on all the trips I have done so far, my road trip from Cape Town to Windhoek will definitely go down as one of my all time favourites. The scenery and adventure in Namibia is ever-changing, diverse and truly exciting.

Planning a big road trip like this one can be a little tricky, especially if you plan to do it in peak season. So, this beast of a post if going to include everything you need to plan an epic road trip through Namibia. Featuring a whole bunch of things you need to know about Namibia travel, accommodation options, what to budget and two incredible itineraries to help you make the most of your time, this post will guide you through one of the most stunning countries in Southern Africa.

This post contains affiliate links. Making a booking through these links will not incur any extra costs for you, but I will earn a small commission which goes towards the costs of keeping this blog running.

Your support is appreciated.

Okay, so what do you need to know before embarking on a Namibian adventure?

Namibian sim cards can be purchased cheaply at most petrol stations. We purchased ours for $1 AUD and didn’t end up activating it as we didn’t need to, but it gave me a big sense of security to know that we could do so at any time. Namibia is an enormous and sparsely populated country, if you are to break down in the middle of nowhere you could find yourself in a spot of trouble. Having a local sim card gives you some extra insurance and is well worth having.

The offical currency of Namibia is the Namibian dollar, but South African rand are accepted everywhere. There is a permanent exchange rate in place for these currencies (1 NAD = 1 ZAR) and they can thus be used interchangeably. However, it is worth noting that Namibian Dollars are not widely accepted in South Africa, so it is a good idea to spend all of your Namibian cash before using your South African notes.

There are campsites all over Namibia, and camping is a very safe way to see the country. Wild camping is permitted in much of the country, but is notably illegal when in the Sossusvlei region. Serviced campsites are cheap and set up with water, bathrooms and electricity – making them a better option than wild camping.

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When it comes to booking and planning in advance, it is worth noting that this drastically changes between seasons. In low season (October to April) you could definitely afford to have more of a ‘winging it’ approach to travel, but during the high season (May to September) booking in advance isn’t just advisable, it is usually very necessary – especially in regards to vehicle hire and accommodation in the Sossusvlei region.

I started booking our September trip in Feb/March and most vehicle companies were already reporting having no available vehicles during this month – Sossusvlei accommodation was also very hard to come by.

Electricity

Namibia uses a mix of type D and M plugs – the same as those used in South Africa. International sockets are a rarity, so adapters will be necessary.

Firstly, if you visit in peak season, book a vehicle at least 6 months in advance. Secondly, while most of Namibia could technically be explored using a 2wd, such a trip will be much slower, much less comfortable and will limit where you can actually get to.

We rented a 4×4 Toyota Hilux through the company South Africa 4×4 and I’d absolutely recommend them. The car came with (almost) everything we could possibly need for a camping adventure, including cooking equipment, a rooftop tent, mattresses, sleeping bags, pillows, an extended fuel tank, torches, a fridge and all the regular car related stuff that you’d expect. All you need to bring is yourself, food and some cheeky Savannah’s for the end of each day!

Renting a vehicle of this type costs as much as $155 AUD per day in peak season and as little as $115 per day in the absolute low season (January to March) but for me, paying the extra $40 per day to avoid contending with the blistering heat of a Namibian summer was well worth the splurge.

Driving through the middle of nowhere might sound like an unlikely place to spot wildlife, but that really isn’t the case. We spotted so much while driving! Ostriches, baboons, so many different times of wild game and Dan even swears that he spotted a giraffe!

In regards to this wildlife, a little commonsense goes a long way. Drive attentively and with care, keep your food secured, always look before you get out of your tent and if there are baboons around while your car is stationary, make sure to lock the doors! Those cheeky monkeys are clever and cunning, and will do just about anything to get into your snacks.

Namibia is one of the safest countries for travellers in all of Africa, and really, that’s kind of all I need to say!

We camped, drove, hiked and explored without any issues – and from what I have heard from other travellers – this is the norm. I felt overwhelmingly safe in Namibia, and I have literally never heard of a traveller saying anything to the contrary.

We cooked the vast majority of our own meals whilst on the road, with the occasional treat meal at a hotel or lodge restaurant. Groceries are cheap, but it is worth noting that they are markedly cheaper in South Africa. It makes sense to stock up on supplies before crossing the border.

Our Namibia adventure took place in September, which is the first month in spring. This period brought us pretty much perfect weather, so despite the busyness, I’d certainly recommend it as a good month to visit. However, it is worth noting that Namibia is an enormous country and that the mercury certainly did shift enormously between places.

When we left Cape Town it had been cold enough that there was snow on the top of Table Mountain! In Orange River and Fish River Canyon the sun was always shining, but it was chilly enough to warrant wearing a light sweater during the day and a thick jacket at night. In Lüderitz, Kolmanskop and Sossusvlei, the temperatures were quite a lot higher (think 28-32°C) and stayed quite warm at night. Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast were then significantly cooler – we even got a little rain!

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Border Crossing

We crossed from South Africa into Namibia at Vioolsdrift Border Control Station. This border post is open 24 hours and involves several different stations.

Firstly, we handed over our passports and were stamped out of South Africa.

Next, we had to drive our car a little further and have the vehicle approved to cross the border. It was at this point that they checked all of our documents over. You will need to show your valid drivers license, proof of vehicle ownership by the rental car company, police clearance certificate and written permission from the owner for the vehicle to be taken across the border. The rental car company will give you all of these documents when you pick up the car, but be sure to go through and make sure that none of these key documents are missing before you head off on your adventure!

Next, we drove out of South Africa, handed over our passports once more and were officially stamped into Namibia.

Lastly, we needed to pay the road user’s fee in the next office, which ended up being around $220 NAD, or approximately $21.50 AUD.

The whole process took around an hour but was fairly straightforward and stress free.

Trip Itinerary #1: The Ultimate No-Safari Namibian Adventure

If you aren’t interested in going on safari, if you are short on time or if you have slightly less moolah to burn, then this first itinerary would likely be the most suitable.

Day One: Cape Town to Orange River

Pick up your vehicle as early in the morning as possible and if so, try to do all your grocery shopping the evening beforehand so that you are ready to get on the road as early as possible. It is also worth noting that the process of obtaining your vehicle can take around an hour, especially if you are unfamiliar with all the equipment that you may need. SA 4×4 delivered the vehicle straight to our hostel in Cape Town and the handover procedure was informative and simple.

From our backpackers we then proceeded to drive the 694km to Amanzi Trails River Camp in Orange River, which is located just past the Namibian border. I chose this camp because of its close proximity to Vioolsdrift Border Control, which was a good choice. We arrived at the camp just as the sun went down, which was ideal. I didn’t fancy us driving around searching for a campsite in the dark!

This huge stretch of driving took around seven hours and although it wasn’t the most interesting or scenic drive, it gave us a good opportunity to get used to our new car and it gave me a particularly good opportunity to play DJ for the day.

Recommended Cape Town Accommodation:

Green elephant backpackers.

The Green Ele is my favourite backpackers in Cape Town. It is located in the super trendy university suburb of Observatory (or ‘Obs’ as the locals call it), is super close to the Neighbourgoods Markets, has fast internet, lovely rooms and incredibly helpful staff.

A dorm bed starts at $21 AUD per night, including a fairly basic breakfast.

To learn more or to book, click here .

Recommended Orange River Accommodation:

Amanzi trails river camp.

These campsites were some of the most well serviced that we came across in all of Namibia, not to mention, the views from our site in the morning were absolutely stunning.

Camping rates are $150 NAD per person, which is approximately $15 AUD.

To learn more or to book, click here.

Day Two: Orange River to Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon is the largest canyon in Africa and the second largest canyon in the world. The ravine of this incredible canyon is around 160km long and as much as 27km wide. Hiking this canyon properly takes a good number of days, which meant that I very nearly wrote off going at all! However, even if you don’t have time to hike down into the ravine, you can still certainly appreciate the majesty of this wondrous location.

We woke up with the sun this next morning in order to get to Fish River as soon as we could. We had splurged on a night at the (unbelievably special) Fish River Lodge and wanted to get there as soon as check in opened to make the most of our one night there.

This 315km drive should have taken around 4.5 hours, but it took us well over five hours – purely because the landscapes were so stunning that I kept wanting to stop for photos! We chose the route which followed the Orange River through Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, which was certainly a good decision, though probably not the best route to head North through if you are only in a 2×2.

This day of driving was by far one of the prettiest, most exciting and most diverse driving days of the entire adventure.

We arrived at Fish River Lodge and it was every bit as amazing as I had hoped. We spent the night in a chalet that sat on the edge of the second largest canyon in the world, drank cider, ate amazing food and saw one of the most beautiful sunsets of my entire life.

Recommended Fish River Canyon Accommodation:

Fish river lodge.

This lodge will go down as one of the coolest places I have ever stayed. Ever. Offering 5* views for 4* prices, staying on the rim of a canyon is an undeniably unique way to spend the night. Oh, and there is even a canyon hugging infinity pool to cool down in!

$392 AUD for a night might sound steep, but this also includes breakfast and a three course dinner. When we visited this also included a complimentary sunset drive around the rim of the canyon, complete with Savannah’s and a delicious sundowners food platter.

Important note: If you do end up wanting to stay at Fish River Lodge (and why wouldn’t you? #notsponsored) the track to get there is 4×4 only – no 2wd would make it.

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Day Three: Fish River Canyon to Lüderitz

This day involves a 342km drive which will take around four hours to complete. We stayed on at Fish River Lodge for as long as we could (when you splurge on a room, you wanna make the most of it) and ended up getting back on the road at around 11.30am. We arrived into Lüderitz mid-afternoon and were pretty exhausted. After checking into our hostel the only thing we really had the energy to do was go and get groceries before settling into bed for an early night.

Recommended Lüderitz Accommodation:

Element riders backpackers.

This is a safe and comfortable backpackers which has plenty of room for onsite parking, plus they have two adorable doggos! A dorm bed starts at $125 NAD ($12.50 AUD) per night, but a private room will only set you back $30 AUD per night, so if you are travelling in a couple, this may be a better option.

They don’t advertise it on their website, but while we were there they did allow a couple to camp in their parking area and use the shared bathroom and kitchen facilities, so if you are on a serious business budget, it might be worth shooting them an email and asking if this is still an option.

Day Four: Explore Kolmanskop and Lüderitz

The town of Lüderitz is quite a sleepy little seaside town, but it has the advantage of being located just 12km from Kolmanskop, which was one of the places I wanted to visit most in Namibia.

Kolmanskop was once a prosperous German-owned mining town thanks to the discovery of diamonds in the early 1900’s, but after WWII the number of diamonds discovered started to dwindle. When large diamond deposits were discovered in Orange River the inhabitants of this town began to pack up and go in search of a new place to find their wealth.

By 1956 Kolmanskop had been completely deserted and over the years, nature has taken over and the town is slowly but surely being swallowed by the sands of the Namib desert.

Kolmanskop is open daily but operating hours are limited on Sundays. Tours are available in English and German, but you can also just explore independently. The entrance fee is a mere $75 NAD ($7.50 AUD) and this can be paid at the gate. The heat in this region is quite oppressive, so it is advisable to visit the town as early in the morning as you can manage.

Later in the day, you can explore a little of Lüderitz town. Notable things to see and do include watching the sunset at Diaz Point, exploring the colonial architecture and getting a glimpse of the Rock Church.

Day Five: Lüderitz to Sesriem

The most famous attraction in all of Namibia is undoubtedly the sand dunes of Sossusvlei. These sand dunes are famous for being some of the highest in the world, and arguably, some of the most visually stunning.

This popularity is well deserved, but does mean that your day spent at these dunes will likely be the least relaxed of your trip. We had spent the first four days of our adventure barely seeing any other travellers but in Sossusvlei, droves of visitors seemed to appear out of nowhere!

The drive from Lüderitz to Sesriem covers a whopping 464km and will take you at least six hours, if not longer. This may seem like an unpleasantly long day of driving, but the landscapes are constantly changing along this route, and the drive seemed to pass much quicker than we had expected.

Recommended Sesriem Accommodations:

It is worth noting that accommodation in the Sossusvlei region books up very far in advance, so I am listing a handful of different accommodation options as your first choice may be booked out.

Namib Desert Lodge and Namib Desert Camp

From a purely location perspective, Namib Desert Lodge certainly wouldn’t have been my first choice of accommodations. It is located in Solitaire, a good distance away from Sossusvlei. However, I went to book accommodation six months in advance and it was one of the very few places I could find that still had availability and reasonable pricing.

We actually ended up loving our time at this lodge. We spent one night in the campsite and one night in the lodge itself, and both were fantastic experiences. There are a couple of great marked hiking trails on the property and there is an extensive bar and fantastic pool to relax by.

A standard room will set you back $264 for a night including breakfast and details for booking a room can be found by clicking here .

A campsite costs a mere $19.50 per night, but it is worth noting that these sites are really only suitable for rooftop tents due to the rocky ground and high volume of wildlife that roam in the area. Details for booking a camping site can be found by clicking here .

Sesriem Campsite

Sesriem Campsite is one of the most popular accommodation options in Sesriem, and if you manage to get a booking here, you are certainly one of the lucky ones! A campsite will set you back a mere $35 AUD per night and the camp is located within the gates of Sesriem, which means that you’ll be able to gain access to the dunes earlier in the morning and later in the evening.

It just isn’t possible to witness sunrise over Sossusvlei unless you have accommodation within these gates, so it really does pay to book your accommodation as far in advance as possible to better your chances of snagging one of these campsites.

For more information about Sesriem Campsite, click here .

Desert Camp

This camp is located 5km away from the Sesriem gates and is ideal for people who want to get to the dunes early but also want the creature comforts that come with having a private chalet.

At $145 AUD per night, these chalets are very reasonably priced, especially when you consider the stunning pool and braai facilities that a stay here gives you access to.

To learn more about Desert Camp or to book, click here .

Day Six: Sossusvlei

You can find a detailed blog about everything you need to know (there is more to it than you’d think) before visiting Sossusvlei by clicking the hyperlinked title above.

The entrance fees for Sossusvlei are $80 Namibian Dollars per person and $10 per vehicle – which totalled around $17 AUD for two people with a car.

I do want to stress that it gets hot and sunny very quickly in this area, so make sure you bring plenty of water and slap on as much high factor sunscreen as is feasibly possible.

Optional: You could start driving to Swakopmund straight after seeing the dunes if you don’t plan to see them by sunset.

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Day Seven: Sossusvlei to Swakopmund

Today will be another big day of driving. The drive from Sesriem to Swakopmund is 348km and will take you a minimum of 4.5 hours, but probably more like 5 hours.

If you are full of beans when you arrive in Swakopmund then you could certainly do some exploring, but if you are anything like us you’ll be so exhausted that all you want to do is stuff your face with carbs, watch a horror film on Netflix and get an early night.

Recommended Swakopmund Accommodation:

Skeleton beach backpackers.

This is a safe and comfortable backpackers with surprisingly good self catering facilities. A private room starts at $50 for a night, though dorm accommodation is much cheaper if you are looking so save some cash.

For more information and to book, click here .

Day Eight: Cape Cross and the Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast is famous for being home to the skeletons of many (seriously so many) shipwrecks, however for me, the main appeal was certainly the inhabitants of Cape Cross.

This cape is home to the one of the largest colonies of Cape Fur Seals, and with 200,000 (at least) inhabitants, it is a sight that you certainly won’t want to miss – spending time with these ocean puppies was an undeniable highlight of my time in Namibia.

Cape Cross Reserve is open from 10am to 5pm daily and entrance costs $5 AUD per person.

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Day Nine: Explore the Surrounds of Swakopmund by Quad Bike

One of the most fun things you can do in Swakopmund is a quad biking adventure through the surrounding desert. Daredevil Adventures offer many tours of varying durations, ranging from 1 hour introductory trips, right up to 5 hour long trips to the famous Dune 7.

A 60 minute quad adventure goes for $45 AUD and a 90 minute tour is slightly more expensive at $55.

For more details and to obtain a full price list, click here .

Optional: Start driving to Windhoek in the early afternoon if you have an early morning flight the next day.

Day ten: swakopmund to windhoek.

The drive from Swakopmund to the capital of Windhoek is 366km and will take you about 3.5 hours. This isn’t the most exciting of drives, so take the time to reminisce over the amazing adventure that you’ve just had before departing the country either on this day or the next morning.

Recommended Windhoek Accommodation:

African kwela guesthouse.

This is a safe and comfortable guesthouse with semi-decent wifi. It is a comfortable spot to spend the night before flying out of Namibia the next day. Prices start at $90 per night for a private room.

For more information or to book, click here .

Trip #1 Budget

So how much moolah will this trip set you back?

This is a fairly accurate estimation of how much money going on this 10 day adventure will cost a couple or duo, although it is worth noting that all these quoted prices are subject to fluctuation and should be used as an approximation only.

10 days x $155 AUD = $1,550

Administration fee: $93, one way cape town fee: $495, total cost: $2,138, accommodation, x1 night green elephant backpackers: $21 x 2 persons = $42, x1 night amanzi trails campsite: $15 x 2 persons = $30, x1 night fish river lodge: $393, x2 nights element riders backpackers: $30 x 2 nights = $60, x2 nights sesriem campsite: $35 x 2 nights = $70, x3 nights skeleton beach backpackers: $50 x 3 nights = $150, x1 night african kwela guesthouse: $90, total cost: $835.

I actually know exactly how much we spent on fuel in Namibia thanks to the Splitwise app, which Dan and I used during our trip to ensure that our spending was split equally.

Our entire fuel costs came to $5,766 NAD, which is equal to around $563 AUD. Considering the sheer amount of driving we did and also how much time we spent properly four wheel driving, I was actually pretty happy with this amount.

From memory, we clocked around 4000km onto our odometer during our trip, which means that for every $1 we spent on fuel we got over 7km of driving out of it.

Total Cost: $563

Once again, thanks to Splitwise, I know exactly how much we spent on food in Namibia.

All of our groceries, coffee stops, afternoon ciders and petrol station snacks came to just $226 – not bad considering that we did this itinerary over a longer period of 14 days!

Based on that, we spent an average of $16 per day on food.

Total Cost: $160

Kolmanskop entrance fee: $15 for two persons, sossusvlei entrance fee: $17 for two persons and one vehicle, cape cross entrance fee: $10 for two persons, 90 minute quad bike adventure: $110 for two persons, total cost: $152, final trip cost: $3,848 aud ($1,924 per person).

Trip Itinerary #2: The Ultimate Namibian Adventure plus Etosha National Park

This itinerary is perfect for people who want a full two week adventure, for those with a bit of extra cash to splash or for those who are dying to go on an amazing safari in Etosha National Park.

Days 1 – 7: As Per Trip Itinerary #1

The first seven days of Trip #2 are the same as Trip #1, it is only when you arrive in Swakopmund that things start getting different!

Day 8: Explore the Surrounds of Swakopmund by Quad Bike

Day 9: Swakopmund to Etosha National Park via Cape Cross

Brace yourself, this is going to be your most intense day of driving for the entire trip, and you will need to get on the road as soon as the sun has risen.

The Skeleton Coast is an amazing part of Namibia, but much of it is inaccessible for vehicles and the only way to see it is through a fly-in safari, and you better believe that these don’t come cheap!

My advice? Drive as far as the Ugab River Gate and then turn around and head onwards to Etosha. You’ll cover an enormous 755km on this day and it will take at least 8.5 hours, not including stops at Cape Cross and various other sights, so it certainly isn’t a day for the faint hearted.

If you aren’t that fussed about seeing the spooky shipwrecks of the Skeleton Coast, only going as far north as Cape Cross before heading to Etosha will shave a good 1.5 hours and 140km off of your journey, so that may well be something to consider.

Recommended Etosha National Park Accommodation:

Etosha safari camp.

Located just outside the gates of Etosha National Park, this safari camp is reasonably priced, highly rated and well suited for travellers who are looking for a self-driven safari experience.

Prices start at $121 AUD per person per night, including breakfast.

Days 10 – 13: Etosha National Park

So why make the effort to visit Etosha?

Well, this well preserved national park has been extremely well set up for people who plan to self drive and is home to the largest free-roaming populations of cheetah and black rhino in the world. You’ll have the opportunity to see some of the most incredible wildlife that the African continent has to offer, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, warthogs, hyenas and a truly phenomenal amount of wild game species.

Four full days in Etosha may sound like a lot, but all I’ve ever heard people say is how much they wished to stay longer, so if you love wildlife, these days will likely be a real highlight for you.

All lodges will provide meals, but these will come at a cost, so if you are trying to save money, stock up on foodstuffs and supplies in Swakopmund.

Entrance fees to the park are incredibly affordable. The daily fee per person is $80 NAD ($8 AUD) plus the daily vehicle fee of $10 NAD ($1 AUD) – making this one of the more affordable African safaris on the market.

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Day 14: Etosha Safari Camp to Windhoek

Your final day of driving will involve a 410km final stretch back into the capital of Windhoek, taking around four hours. This isn’t the most exciting of drives, so take the time to reminisce over the amazing adventure that you’ve just had before departing the country either on this day or the next morning.

Trip #2 Budget

This is a fairly accurate estimation of how much money going on this 14 day adventure will cost a couple or duo, although it is worth noting that all these quoted prices are subject to fluctuation and should be used as an approximation only.

14 days x $155 AUD = $2,170

Total cost: $2,758, x2 nights skeleton beach backpackers: $50 x 2 nights = $100, x5 nights etosha safari camp: $121 x 2 persons x 4 nights = $1,210, total cost: $1,995.

We did not actually do the drive to Etosha, but due to some backtracking we ended up covering around the same amount of ground as we would’ve if we’d gone to Etosha (at least as per Google Maps) so I am going to estimate that the cost of fuel would be pretty similar.

Total Cost: $650

Based on the calculations laid out in the Trip #1 Budget, we spent an average of $16 per day on food in Namibia for two persons.

Total Cost: $224

Daily etosha entrance fee: $64 for two persons over four days, daily etosha vehicle fee: $4 for three days, total cost: $220, final trip cost: $5,847 aud ($2,923.50 per person).

Namibia Packing List

Let’s finish this beast of a guide with a quick list of everything you’ll need for the most epic Namibian adventure possible!

Namibia is an enormous country, and as with any truly massive country, the weather is diverse and varied. You will need to pack for a variety of seasons. A warm jumper and thick weatherproof jacket are a must, especially if you intend to camp – it gets cold at night in the desert! I was lucky that I came from Iceland to Namibia, because it meant that I had my warm Iceland clothes, and honestly, I didn’t expect to need them in Namibia – but I was so glad that I had them!

Thick socks, thin t-shirts, comfy pants suitable for hiking in, sports bras and a couple of cuter outfits are also musts.

Laundry facilities are available in many lodges but if you are camping exclusively then you may want to bring enough undies and t-shirts for the entire trip.

If you can only bring two pairs of shoes, bring a pair of sturdy hiking boots and something comfortable and light. I pretty much exclusively wore my Timberlands but also did clock a few miles in my Birkenstocks.

Sun Protection

Bring plenty of high factor sunscreen, decent sunnies and a hat. It may seem obvious, but the Namibian sun is a harsh mistress and she will burn the ever-loving crap out of you if given the chance!

Bug Protection

This is only really necessary for people planning to visit Etosha. If you aren’t going on safari, you honestly won’t need much in the way of bug spray.

Documents and Appropriate ATM Cards

It should go without saying, but make sure that you have all the appropriate documentation for your vehicle before accepting the keys! Also, it is worth noting that Dan’s Mastercard didn’t work at quite a lot of ATMs in Namibia – Visa is a safer card to carry.

Camera Gear

Bring everything you have, including extra batteries and memory cards; believe me, you’ll be needing them!

The Perfect Spotify Playlist

Any road trip through Namibia is going to involve some seriously long stretches of driving. Unless you can non stop talk for 3-8 hours each day, I’d highly recommend having some pre-prepared tunes for the long journey.

Over the past six years I have ventured to over 60 countries across all seven continents, and out of all those many places, Namibia has easily become one of my absolute favourites.

This country seems to get frequently overlooked in favour of East African nations and while it deserves so much more recognition, the fact that it is flying under the tourism radar means that it is still a barely touched gem of a destination.

Finally, these estimated trip costs may seem high, but when you compare them to the costs of group tours, the cost is actually pretty comparable. Plus, having seen the enormous tour buses (from when we would overtake them and leave them in our dust, literally) I can honestly say that I’d never want to be on one.

Doing it independently gave us so much freedom, solitude, romance and adventure – I wouldn’t recommend doing it any other way.

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35 thoughts on “ The ULTIMATE Guide + Itinerary for an EPIC Road Trip Through NAMIBIA ”

Such lovely scenery! Namibia is a bit too far away for me though. ❤️

I bet you could get to Cape Town in three flights or less! The world is your oyster John 🙂

Great post! My huband and I lived in Swapkomund for close to a year. When you work in an area, it is more difficult to see the country but we did make a few trips. We loved Sossusvlei!! I am glad that you recommended a 4×4 to rent for travel there. We actually visited Sossusvlei before we lived in Nambia and didn’t get the memo that we should rent a 4×4 to drive. We went in a car! Yikes! It took us FOREVER to get to the lodge. Safe travels! Wishing you joy, sparkles and many blessings!

What other trips did you take in Namibia that you’d recommend? And oh boy, I am not surprised it took you forever! The people we did see in smaller vehicles definitely looked like they were struggling :/ Safe travels to you too Sharalyn!

Lived there for 10 years in my youth so much more to see Iam 67 now and thinking of backing the country to revive my lovely memories

I’ve seen so many new things popping up around Namibia! I really gotta get over there!

Do it! It is still flying under the radar as a destination, so the sooner you go the better! 🙂

best of your blogs so far and they are all so amazing – incredible journey Ella.

Oh wow thank you so much Vicki! How are you? Got any trips planned?

Amazing photos and great tips!

Thank you so much! Hopefully they come in handy for other people planning a trip to Namibia 🙂

Definitely saving this one for the future! What an excellent and well put-together post.

Thanks Riley! Are you heading to the African continent any time soon?

I hope so! 😉

Such a great guide! I am thinking about travelling to Namibia and I will definitely save it for later. You have such a great pictures by the way, these building covered in the sand, that’s so impressive.

That is so great to hear! When are you thinking about going?

Your pictures are incredible! Like scenes out the new Blade Runner movie.

That is such a high compliment! Thank you <3

After travelling Europe in our camper for the last three years full time, this road trip seriously appeals to me. Wild camping options it sounds amazing and would never have thought about it as a route we could take, perhaps not in our van though!

Unless your van is a 4wd I don’t think it would be the best option! 🙂

Added to the bucket list! It looks amazing!

Awesome! Hopefully you get there one day very soon!

Wow, I love your photos. You’re at the bottom end of Africa while we are at the top, Morocco. I now want to explore more of this amazing country. I really enjoyed your blog, with the details and costings, thanks so much.

Oh Morocco, that’s a place I’d love to get to one day. Where are you headed next?

This si so useful, we’re hoping to go to Namibia in the next year or so, so I’m pinning this for future reference

How awesome Phoebe! I promise you that it will be an amazing adventure 🙂

Ive done a very similar tour and this post is absolutely spot on for anyone planning a trip to amazing Namibia. Well done!

That is awesome to hear! Did you visit any spots that aren’t on this itinerary?

wow. An amazing adventure. Namibia is high on my list and you made it even higher.

That is exactly what I like to hear! I love inspiring future adventures and travels 🙂

This is super helpful, as Sossusvlei is on my to-visit-someday list! One question… is English widely spoken? You didn’t mention any issues with communication at border crossings, the car rental place, etc. so I assume communication wasn’t an issue?

Yep, English is widely spoken, we never had an issue 🙂

Namibia is certainly deserving of at least a month’s time. I’m one of those “full of beans” types, who’d likely go in for an October jaunt, though in-season isn’t out of the question.

October would still be a nice time to go – I think January and February would be pretty unbearably hot though.

Thank you kindly, I really enjoyed reading your blog… I like the way you put in things like pictures,, travel tips, all places to visit and of course budget spent. I will be visiting Namibian in October 2019 and have booked in a holiday flats at Henties Bay… It’s a self catering and am happy to have read that one can also stockstock up food before entering the border. Thanks for all the helpful tips😊🙏

A Visitor’s Guide to the Etosha Salt Pan

April 25, 2024 April 25, 2024
Leigh-Anne Harber
Namibia Tour Destinations

The word magical is somewhat overused when it comes to descriptions of Namibia. But when describing the utterly bewildering and majestic Etosha Salt Pan landscape, magical is quite an appropriate word.

The Etosha Salt Pan is regarded as one of the best places to go in Namibia and if you have not yet put two and two together, the Pan is located within the Etosha National Park.

In fact, if it weren’t for the pan, the park would not exist. The Etosha Pan is the very essence of the park. It stretches across a magnificent 4 800 square km and it sits at an elevation of 1030 meters. To put it into perspective, the Pan covers about 25% of the park, making it so big that it can be seen from space!

Although very little grows here, by way of bushes and trees, the Pan plays the vital role of collecting water, making it the main place in the park for wildlife to drink water.

When on an Etosha safari , visiting the Pan is a must as it is one place in the park where you are almost guaranteed to see all sorts of wildlife. And to help you plan your trip to this area in the park, we’ve put together a guide that you can use as your handy travel companion.

Location and Formation

The Etosha Pan is a dramatic scene that is a geological story millions of years in the making.

Sitting smack dab in the centre of Etosha National Park, the Pan makes for an otherworldly sighting that’ll leave you speechless.

After spending hours driving through a dry savannah filled land, those visiting the Pan often arrive astonished to see that it is simply teeming with wildlife, and as they get closer, they will see that the landscape opens up to reveal a vast, glistening white plain stretching as far as the eye can see.

Believe it or not, the Etosha Pan used to be a colossal lake. Ancient rivers, like the mighty Cunene, used to flow freely, filling the basin to the brim.

But, over time, tectonic shifts have rerouted these rivers, leaving the lake to slowly dry up. As the relentless African sun has baked the land, it has left behind a thick layer of mineral deposits – the very same minerals that give the Pan its dazzling white sheen today.

Wind erosion has sculpted the Pan further, creating a flat, almost featureless expanse that shimmers like a giant mirage during the dry season. As time has passed, salt springs have popped up and created hillocks of clay and sand.

During the wet season, the Pan turns back into a lake, attracting wildlife as well as thousands of flamingos, as they follow their migratory path.

Like most of Africa’s more striking landscapes, the Pan has its own folklore.

Among the San people, there is a story of a woman’s grief over the killing of her family resulting in the formation of a huge lake, filled by her tears, which eventually dried up, becoming the Etosha Pan.

Wildlife and Nature at the Salt Pan

This isn’t a dream.

When you first set eyes on the pan, which is the heart and soul of Etosha National Park, you will be completely captivated by this almost alien like landscape. Once your astonishment eases up a little bit, you will see that the Pan is filled with life , and these are just some of the animals you have to keep a lookout for:

Springboks, which are Namibia’s national animal
Lions

Getting There

Since the Etosha National Park is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Namibia, there are plenty of tours that will take you right to the pan. The park is also the perfect year round destination to visit, with each season bringing something unique and unusual to the area.

When planning your tour, you need to first and foremost decide how to get there, and these are your options.

Most who intend to visit Etosha National Park and its Pan will usually travel from Windhoek, Namibia’s capital city. The vast majority of both self-drive tours and guided tours will depart from the city, and this is certainly going to be the shortest and easiest route. The drive, whether on a guided tour or a self-guided trip is around 435km and will take around 6 hours. The roads along the way are paved and as such easy to navigate.

Tourists can also arrive in Johannesburg and go on an epic road trip. Travelling from Johannesburg to Etosha is a roughly 14-hour drive through some of the most stunning South African and Namibian scenery.

Driving from Cape Town is another option but it is a bit further than driving from Johannesburg, at around 1,800 kilometres. Choosing this option means you must be prepared for a longer journey (with enough time to enjoy epic playlists and audiobooks), but you do get to see a whole lot more, making your tour more of a memorable experience.

The option to rent a car is readily available in Windhoek, as well as in Cape Town and Johannesburg. To be on the safe side you should hire a sturdy 4×4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season (roughly November to April) when roads can get a bit dicey.

Don’t forget to stock up on essentials like water, and snacks, and to make sure that your rental has a good spare tyre. Being self-sufficient is a must in the Namibian wilderness.

The key to a safe journey is to plan your route, so you must also have reliable GPS and maps (cell service can be patchy in remote areas).

For those who are really pressed for time, there are several domestic airlines offering flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Namibia’s domestic hubs like Windhoek or Ondangwa.

From there, you can either rent a car and then drive (around 4-5 hours) or you can hop on a pre-arranged transfer to Etosha National Park itself.

No matter your chosen mode of transport, be sure to factor in park entrance fees and any necessary permits when planning your budget.

Exploring the Pan on a Guided Tour

You should think of a guided tour as your personal passport to an unforgettable Etosha experience.

Exploring the beautiful Etosha Pan can be done on your own, but the experience can be so much better with a trusty guide by your side. This landscape, while undeniably breathtaking, can also be a bit intimidating, and that’s where guided Etosha tours can be a saving grace, especially if you are not keen on driving yourself.

A guided tour will really simplify the process of getting there and getting around. There are numerous reputable companies out there that cater to various interests and budgets, and these tours typically include comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles specifically designed for wildlife viewing. You have the added benefit of being guided by an experienced driver who knows the park intimately and will navigate the terrain with professional ease.

Expert guides, armed with an encyclopaedia’s worth of knowledge about the Pan’s geology, wildlife, and fascinating history, will turn your visit from sightseeing to an unforgettable exploration.

Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife traveller or a curious first-timer, there’s a Namibia tour perfectly suited to your interests and budget.

If you choose that classic game drive, you can expect to venture deep into the park in a specially designed safari vehicle that will optimise your wildlife viewing. For the photography buffs out there, you can book a specialised photographic tour, one led by guides who know the best angles and lighting to capture the Pan’s ethereal beauty.

Some tours even offer sunrise or sunset excursions, allowing you to see the Pan’s magical colour transformations in the company of fellow explorers.

Guided tours aren’t just about knowledge and convenience; they’re about improving safety too.

These experienced professionals know the park like the back of their hand, ensuring you get to explore the terrain safely and responsibly. They’ll also be on the lookout for elusive wildlife, maximising your chances of spotting those once-in-a-lifetime creatures.

When you have a guided Etosha National Park tour you get to ditch the guesswork because with a knowledgeable guide at your side, the Etosha Pan will share all of its secrets with you.

Sustainable Travel Tips for Visiting the Etosha Pan

The Etosha Salt Pan’s unspoiled, incredible beauty is guaranteed to leave an undeniable mark on your soul.

As travellers, we have the responsibility to ensure that this wonder remains untouched by humans for generations to come. Here’s how you can make use of sustainable practices and be a responsible Etosha Pan visitor:

Leave only Footprints, Take Only Memories

This golden rule applies everywhere, and the Etosha Pan is no exception.

When visiting, you should pack reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics that could cause littering. Park authorities provide designated bins and you should be sure to use them religiously and dispose of your waste properly. As for food scraps, don’t simply throw them on the ground. Even though they will break down in time, use the designated bins to dispose of food as well.

Respect the Wildlife

The Etosha Pan is a haven for creatures great and small. You should always maintain a safe distance from animals and resist the urge to feed them. Remember, these are wild creatures, not performers.

You should also make sure that you stay on the designated roads and trails to avoid disturbing their habitat. And that zoom lens on your camera? Use it responsibly; loud noises and sudden movements can spook animals.

Be in the Know

A little knowledge goes a long way.

Before visiting, you should research the park’s ecosystem and Namibia’s conservation efforts. By understanding the delicate balance of the environment, you will be able to make more informed choices.

If you are planning your own tour, you should book your accommodation at an eco-friendly lodge, one that prioritises sustainability and supports local communities.

If you are booking a tour, you should choose a responsible tour operator, thus ensuring that your tourism dollars contribute to the park’s conservation.

Minimise Your Impact

Simple choices can make a big difference.

Whenever possible, try using shared transportation or guided tours that use fuel-efficient vehicles. You can also minimise your water usage at lodges and be mindful of your energy consumption. The less we take, the more the Etosha Pan can thrive.

Ready to be blown away by the natural beauty of one of Namibia’s most ancient places?

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The 30 best safari holidays

When William Cornwallis Harris set out across South Africa in 1836, he wielded a gun, naturally – hunting was de rigueur back then – but also pencils and paintbrushes, sketching the diverse creatures he saw (and, often, shot). Thus was the safari born – even if the name was yet to be coined.

Safari is, as old Africa hands (and avid pub-quizzers) know, Swahili for “journey”. Today, that means not only intercontinental travel to Africa’s fabled wildlife destinations – the grasslands of Kenya and Tanzania , home to the Great Migration; the gorilla-ranged forests and mountains of Rwanda, Uganda and Congo; the deserts, deltas, waterways and bush of Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa. It’s a journey of discovery, with options that have diversified beyond standard 4WD to encompass game-tracking excursions on foot or horseback, by bicycle or even in a hot-air balloon.

Tour operators can stitch together tailor-made itineraries, staying in camps and lodges to suit every preference – some super-luxe, others family-friendly, many wild and remote. Meanwhile, self-drive itineraries and group tours offer affordable encounters with the Big Five : lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.

Safari holidays can be customised to include almost infinite combinations of habitats, species, travel styles and cultures. The 30 selected here give a taster of the most memorable wildlife experiences in Africa and beyond.

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Best for first-timers

Best for families, best for luxury, best for walkers, best for bush and beach, best for adventure, best for the big five, best for value, best for camping, best for out of africa, deeper south: zimbabwe, botswana, namibia and south africa.

Ramble Worldwide’s group tour through southern Africa offers a safari smorgasbord of destinations, activities and species – including the Big Five. From thundering Victoria Falls, venture to Botswana’s Chobe National Park and paddle a dugout through the Okavango Delta, spot game at Etosha’s waterholes and roam the vast dunes of Sossusvlei in Namibia, ending with South Africa’s winelands and Cape Town.

How to do it: Ramble Worldwide (01707 331133) offers the 21-night African Journey from £5,999pp including flights, accommodation, most meals and activities.

See stars in Kenya

The Maasai Mara conjures images of lions lounging on kopje awaiting the herbivore tide of the Great Migration. Flanking conservancies offer spectacular game-viewing but a more exclusive experience, showcased in Red Savannah’s holiday visiting Elephant Pepper Camp in Mara North, and Loisaba Tented Camp, famed for “star beds”, horseback safaris, elephants, big cats and Mt Kenya views.

How to do it: Red Savannah (01242 787800) offers the seven-night Essential Kenya holiday from £5,289pp including accommodation, most meals and activities. British Airways flies Heathrow-Nairobi from around £700 return.

Trunk call to Botswana

For close encounters with thriving herds of Africa’s heftiest creatures, head to Chobe National Park, home, reputedly, to Africa’s densest population of elephants – at least 50,000 of them, plus hippos, lions, leopards and more. With such reliable wildlife sightings, it’s ideal for safari novices – and Newmarket Holidays’ group tour offers a good-value option in this famously pricy destination.

How to do it: Newmarket Holidays (0330 341 1927) offers the 10-day On Safari in Botswana trip from £3,420pp, including flights, half-board accommodation, game drives and river cruise.

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Nurture your wild child, Tanzania

Kids love animals – but also new friends, pools and poo. Stubborn Mule’s Tanzania itinerary leans into those penchants with child-friendly activities: walks in predator-free Arusha National Park, canoe trips paddling past hippos, dips overlooking zebra and giraffes in Tarangire National Park, and art and bush skills sessions with locals. Add Big Five safaris in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, plus sand and snorkelling on Zanzibar.

How to do it: Stubborn Mule Travel (01728 752751) offers the 14-night Tanzania Safari and Beach holiday from £5,600pp, including flights, some meals and activities.

Safari safely in South Africa

The Eastern Cape is home to bustling wildlife yet malaria-free – ideal for families. Original Travel’s itinerary visits Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, home to the Big Five including both black and white rhino plus child favourites meerkats and even aardvark. Junior Attenboroughs join “Bugs and Bones” guided walks, reserve-wide scavenger hunts and arts and crafts activities, then relish beach time at Plettenberg Bay.

How to do it: Original Travel (020 3582 4990) offers the nine-day Eastern Cape Family Escape from £2,310pp including flights, accommodation, some meals and activities.

Engage adrenalin monkeys in Kenya

If your boisterous young primates can’t sit still, try Families Worldwide’s new action-packed adventure designed to enthral over-10s. Whitewater rafting, ziplining, rock-climbing and paddleboarding in and around Sagana are augmented with animal-spotting by bike in Hells Gate National Park and a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, before learning about the traditional Maasai lifestyle and heading into the Mara for game drives.

How to do it: Families Worldwide (01962 302086) offers the seven-night Kenya Family Adventure & Safari from £3,165pp/£2,545pp adults/children including flights, accommodation, most meals and activities.

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Gourmet game-watching in South Africa

Private Tswalu reserve might be in the Kalahari Desert, but you won’t go thirsty – or hungry. At Loapi Camp, Michelin-class chefs devise gourmet delights, tents have plunge pools, and private guides seek out black-maned lions, pangolins, black rhinos and wild dogs. Cazenove+loyd’s holiday combines with Grootbos Forest Lodge for wild strolls and whale-watching.

How to do it: Cazenove+loyd (020 7384 2332) offers a Tswalu safari from £10,989pp including accommodation, meals, activities and transfers. British Airways flies Heathrow-Cape Town from around £850 return.

Enjoy aerial game-watching in Tanzania

Drink in bird’s-eye views of the East African wilderness, spotting big cats on dawn hunts and huge herds of elephants, on Scott Dunn’s new hot-air-balloon safari. Float between five exclusive camps in Ruaha National Park with private guide and photographer James Suter, descending to learn game-tracking and conservation techniques.

How to do it: Scott Dunn (020 3627 9878) offers the 10-night airborne safari expedition from £40,000pp including transfers, accommodation, meals, drinks and activities. Kenya Airways flies Heathrow-Dar es Salaam from around £630 return.

Your own private waterhole in Namibia

When the dry season parches Etosha, wildlife throngs to shrinking waterholes, providing effortless yet thrilling game viewing. Super-luxe Onguma Camp Kala, in its own private reserve alongside the national park, has its own animal-luring pool. Carrier’s safari adds a night on a wildly romantic Dream Cruiser sleepout under the stars – parked up alongside a waterhole, naturally.

How to do it: Carrier (0161 492 1353) offers a five-night Namibian adventure from £8,495 including flights, accommodation, meals and activities.

Sweet valley hikes in Zambia

The Luangwa Valley is famed as the birthplace of the walking safari, pioneered by visionary conservationist Norman Carr well over half a century ago. Guests on Mountain Kingdoms’ holiday join some of Africa’s finest guides strolling between characterful, comfortable camps in South Luangwa National Park, watching for the “little five” (including elephant shrews and antlions) as well as really big game.

How to do it: Mountain Kingdoms (01453 844400) offers the 11-day Classic Luangwa Walking Safari in Style from £8,675pp including flights, accommodation, meals and guided walks.

Track cheetah in South Africa

Finding the world’s fastest land mammal on foot is quite the ask – but easier with an expert guide locating radio-collared cats. Not that Aardvark’s new cheetah-tracking holiday is all cheating: on morning walks you’ll also learn to identify paw prints, scratch marks and dung, Watch for the Big Five plus diverse antelopes in malaria-free private Samara Karoo Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape.

How to do it: Aardvark Safaris (0131 297 6229) offers the six-night Cheetah Trail from £4,627pp including flights, transfers, accommodation, meals and activities.

Tramp through Tanzania

Ruaha is wild, vast – Tanzania’s largest national park, spanning more than 7,800 square miles – little-visited and scenically varied, encompassing plains, hills, bulbous baobabs and thriving wetlands, perfect for active exploration. On Audley Travel’s feet-first holiday, join an experienced guide for long morning walks tracking animals, immersing yourself in the rhythms of the bush and learning how to safely encounter elephants and buffalo.

How to do it: Audley Travel (01993 838545) offers a nine-night Tanzania walking safari from £7,100 including flights, accommodation, most meals and activities.

Marine marvels in Kenya

Africa’s terrestrial habitats get the lion’s share of attention, but the coral gardens, turtles and hundreds of fish species in Watamu Marine National Park are every bit as scintillating. Hemingways Collection’s itinerary adds a family-friendly stay in a private villa tent in the Mara-adjacent Naboisho Conservancy for Big Five sightings.

How to do it: Hemingways Collection (00254 [0]711 032000) offers the seven-night Bush and Beach holiday from £2,567pp including accommodation, domestic flights, transfers and activities. British Airways flies Heathrow-Nairobi from around £700 return.

Whale sandwich in South Africa and Mozambique

Pick your season to meet marine giants off the gilded sands of Ponta do Ouro in southern Mozambique: humpbacks breach offshore from July to November, while whale sharks and manta rays glide through the brine December-May. Bookend a snorkelling safari with wild walking among buffalo and rhino in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and game drives in Kruger National Park on Exodus’s new tour.

How to do it: Exodus (020 3411 6734) offers the 11-day Southern Africa Safari: Kruger & Coast holiday from £3,920 including flights, accommodation, some meals and activities.

Be dazzled by the ‘lake of stars’, Malawi

Liwonde National Park is a heartening conservation success story, having translocated lions, cheetahs, wild dogs and black rhinos. Pelorus Travel’s luxury holiday combines a Liwonde safari with tea-tasting at a highland estate, roaming the waterfalls of the Nyika Plateau on horseback and snorkelling in the inland sea David Livingstone dubbed the “lake of stars”.

How to do it: Pelorus Travel (020 3848 5424) offers the 10-night Malawi Highlands and Islands holiday from £18,000pp, including accommodation, transfers, most meals and activities. Kenya Airways flies Heathrow-Lilongwe from around £760 return.

Go ape in Uganda

Though mountain gorillas hog the headlines, a trek to meet these endangered great apes in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is only one highlight of World Expeditions’ action-packed holiday in Uganda. You’ll also track chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, and spot tree-climbing lions and cruise among hippos in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

How to do it: World Expeditions (020 8875 5060) offers the seven-day Primates and Wildlife of Uganda holiday from £2,920pp including accommodation, meals, guide, transfers, activities and permits. RwandAir flies Heathrow-Entebbe from about £500 return.

Lope with lemurs in Madagascar

Bustling with curious creatures found nowhere else on earth, the Great Red Island is home not only to diverse species of lemurs – ring-tailed, ruffed, skeletal-fingered, dancing, noisy and mouse-sized – but also goggle-eyed chameleons, humpback whales, giraffe-necked weevils and the elusive, catlike fossa. Rainbow Tours’ comprehensive itinerary traverses rainforests, spiny bush, baobab avenues and inselbergs in search of Madagascar’s unique species.

How to do it: Rainbow Tours (020 3773 7945) offers the Classic Madagascar Overland holiday from £5,565pp, including flights, accommodation, some meals, guide, driver and activities.

Rainforest bathing in Republic of Congo

Among Africa’s least-touristed safari destinations, Odzala-Kokoua National Park is home to some of the continent’s most charismatic yet endangered species: western lowland gorilla, plus forest elephants and forest buffalos wallowing in the swamping clearings known as bais . Natural World Safaris’ holiday stays in three of Kamba Africa’s comfortable lodges in Odzala.

How to do it: Natural World Safaris (01273 691642) offers the nine-day Western Lowland Gorilla & Bai Safari from £12,480pp including accommodation, meals, activities and transfers. Air France flies Heathrow-Brazzaville from about £765 return.

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Read between the lions in Kenya

Mara Naboisho Conservancy is not only home to one of the continent’s highest densities of lions but also shows how community-led tourism makes for better experiences for all. On Responsible Travel’s holiday, join Maasai guides in search of those maned predators and other game, honing bushcraft and tracking skills via walking safaris and game drives.

How to do it: Responsible Travel (01273 823700) offers a nine-day safari in Kenya from $5,465 (£4,230) including accommodation, meals and activities. British Airways flies Heathrow-Nairobi from around £700 return.

Secret spectacles in Zimbabwe

Safari aficionados celebrate the huge elephant herds of Hwange National Park and the African wild dogs of Mana Pools National Park, with Matusadona National Park mopping up the other Big Five species. Timbuktu Travel’s tailor-made itinerary visits these three parks – some of Africa’s quietest safari destinations, boasting arguably its finest wildlife guides – plus Victoria Falls.

How to do it: Timbuktu Travel (020 3993 1848) offers the 10-night Ultimate Zimbabwe holiday from £4,500 including accommodation, meals, transfers and activities. Ethiopian flies Heathrow-Victoria Falls, Harare-Heathrow from around £720 return.

Joy of six in Rwanda

Why settle for just the conventional handful of hefty species? Yellow Zebra Safaris’ Rwanda holiday combines gorilla-tracking in Volcanoes National Park with a Big Five safari across the savannah of Akagera National Park, staying in some of the continent’s most stylish and luxurious lodges and camps.

How to do it: Yellow Zebra Safaris (020 3797 0864) offers the seven-day Rwanda’s Luxurious Big Five Safari and Gorillas holiday from £10,778, including accommodation, most meals, transfers and activities. Rwandair flies Heathrow-Kigali from around £580 return.

Self-drive saver in Namibia

Big Five doesn’t have to mean big bucks – or roughing it in basic campsites – if you get behind the wheel. With smooth roads, diverse habitats and profuse wildlife, Namibia offers an ideal introduction to self-drive safaris. Expert Africa’s greatest hits itinerary scoots between Sossusvlei’s soaring dunes, colourful coastal Swakopmund, Damaraland’s ostriches and elephants, and Etosha’s game-thronged waterholes.

How to do it: Expert Africa (020 3405 6666) offers the 14-night Caracal Self-Drive Safari from £2,360pp including accommodation, most meals and car rental. Ethiopian flies Heathrow-Windhoek from around £800 return.

Road-trip through Botswana

Overland tours offer young (at heart) travellers affordable access to Africa’s most rewarding reserves. G Adventures’ “Lando” trundles between Jo’burg and Victoria Falls, watching for horned behemoths in Khama Rhino Sanctuary, drifting through the Okavango Delta in a mokoro (dugout) and meeting the elephants of Chobe National Park, en route.

How to do it: G Adventures (020 7313 6953) offers the eight-day Botswana and Falls Overland tour from £949pp including transport, accommodation, most meals and some activities. British Airways flies Heathrow-Johannesburg, Victoria Falls-Heathrow, from around £900.

Tramp the trails of South Africa and Eswatini

Experience oversized wonders on Explore’s overland tour: the soaring rock palisades of the Drakensberg range, the Big Five – including both black and white rhino – in Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park and Kruger National Park, humpbacks breaching offshore near St Lucia. You’ll also walk among zebra, wildebeest and warthog in Eswatini’s Mliliwane Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to do it: Explore (01252 240850) offers the 10-day South Africa and Eswatini tour from £1,195pp including accommodation, guide, some meals and activities. British Airways (ba.com) flies Heathrow-Johannesburg return from around £750.

Follow the migration in Tanzania

The great sea of wildebeest, zebra and antelopes that circles the Serengeti is as varied as it is extraordinary: one month the highlight is calving, another it’s the mass crossing of crocodile-infested rivers. A Tent with a View’s Bush Rover Migration Camp moves luxury tented suites accordingly.

How to do it: A Tent with a View (00255 713 323318) offers the eight-day Serengeti Calving Season safari from £5,751 including accommodation, most meals, transfers and activities. Ethiopian flies London-Kilimanjaro from around £725 return.

Life’s a pitch in South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe

Tick off countries and species on an overland odyssey visiting some of Africa’s finest reserves and beaches. On The Go Tours’ camping adventure scoots from big-five nexus Kruger National Park to Mozambique’s golden sands – watch for whale sharks – then into Zimbabwe to spot rhinos and leopards in Matobo National Park, plus lions and elephants in Hwange.

How to do it: On the Go Tours (020 4586 8085) offers the 14-day Mozambique & Zimbabwe Discovery from £2,795pp including camping accommodation, most meals and activities. British Airways flies Heathrow-Johannesburg, Victoria Falls-Heathrow from around £900 return.

Nocturnal thrills in Botswana

Keep your eyes peeled for leopard, honey badger and perhaps even aardvark on a night drive through Khwai Concession – one highlight of Naturetrek’s twin-centre mammal-centric safari based at wilderness camps in that community-managed site and adjacent Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta. Expect close encounters with all manner of creatures: lions, hyenas, elephants, giraffes, various antelopes and possibly “painted wolves”.

How to do it: Naturetrek (01962 733051) offers the 10-day Botswana’s Desert & Delta holiday from £4,495pp including flights, accommodation, meals and guided safaris.

Here be giants, Guyana

Iwokrama Rainforest in central Guyana is a haven for jaguar – only one of many oversized creatures in this lush, largely pristine South American destination. Vast harpy eagles, giant otters and giant anteaters are among eye-catching species to spot on Journey Latin America’s adventure, which also visits colossal Kaieteur Falls.

How to do it: Journey Latin America (020 3553 9647) offers the 12-day Signature Guyana holiday from £5,800pp including accommodation, transfers, most meals and activities. British Airways flies London-Georgetown from around £630 return.

Earn your stripes in India

Shere Khan, Bagheera and Baloo – or at least tigers, leopards and sloth bears – prowl and amble among the teak woods and rivers of Pench National Park, setting for Rudyard Kipling’s timeless Jungle Book . Abercrombie & Kent’s cat-centric safari starts in Pench, continuing to Kanha and Bandhavgarh – two more tiger hotspots – plus Gir National Park to find rare Asiatic lions.

How to do it: Abercrombie & Kent (01242 386469) offers a 12-night Indian safari from £7,995pp including flights, transfers, accommodation, most meals and activities.

Monkey around in Malaysian Borneo

The lush forests of the planet’s third-largest island are home to some of our closest relatives: orangutans. Encounters are guaranteed at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre on Wildlife Worldwide’s tour of diverse reserves in Sabah; you’ll also watch for pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys along the Kinabatangan River, flying squirrels and slow loris in the Danum Valley and leopard cat in Tabin and Demarakot.

How to do it: Wildlife Worldwide (01962 302086) offers the 14-night Wild Borneo holiday from £6,995pp including flights, accommodation, meals and activities.

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IMAGES

Cape Town To Namibia Road Trip South Africa Fish River Canyon Etosha
Etosha National Park Road Trip Adventure (8 days)
Etosha National Park Namibia African safari options and tips
Cape Town to Namibia road trip
Etosha to Cape Town
Etosha National Park Road Trip Adventure (8 days)

VIDEO

Etosha National Park
CPT-Etosha special Episode 1
Cape Cross, Spitzkoppe, Etosha
Road Trip Cape Town to Oudtshoorn South Africa pt 1 March 17th 2024
Garden Route Road Trip Cape Town to Oudtshoorn Pt 2 March 17 2024 Route 62
Road Trip

COMMENTS

19 days away
Below is a copy of our basic route: Day Driving/Staying Stayed at. Day 1 Cape Town 2 Kamieskoorn Kamieskroon Hotel. Day 2 Kamieskroon 2 Fish River Hobas Campsite. Day 3 Fish River to Luderitz Shark Island. Day 4 Luderitz/ Kolmanskop Shark Island. Day 5 Luderitz to Sossusvlei Hauchabfontein. Day 6 Sossusvlei Hauchabfontein.
Cape Town to Namibia road trip
Alya next to a gigantic termite nest on the Cape Town - Namibia road trip Day 10. Etosha National Park. Etosha National Park is one of the largest safari parks in Southern Africa. It's a must-include in your Namibia itinerary. If you have time I'd suggest staying here for a couple of days to make sure you get the most out of your visit.
Cape Town to Namibia Road Trip: No-Nonsense Guide
Cape Town to Namibia Itinerary. Be sure to go to our in-depth Namibian Road Trip Itinerary and Travel Blog for our complete breakdown of the highlights, lowlights, and tips. Day 1: Cape Town to Vredendal. Day 2: Orange River. Day 3: Fish River Canyon and Aus. Day 4: NamibRand.
Namibia road trip
A baby seal at the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, one of our favorite places on this Namibia road trip. Day 8. Spitzkoppe - Etosha National Park (Okaukuejo Campsite), 436 km/270 mi. Distance - 436 km/270 mi, tar/gravel road. Driving time - 4h40min.
Exploring Etosha: a 9 Day Road Trip
See the highlights of Etosha National Park through this 9 day road trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Namutoni, Halali, Okaukuejo, and much more. See the detailed route, where they stayed as well as activities along the way.
A Self-Drive Adventure: 3 Day Road Trip in Etosha National Park
Entered Etosha National Park through Galton Gate and drove to Dolomite Camp for a 1 night stay. 43. Dolomite Camp. Day 2. Drove to Okaukuejo Camp for a 1 night stay. 172. Okaukuejo Camp. Day 3. Drove to Etosha King Nehale for a 1night stay.
Ultimate Namibia Itinerary: Self-Drive Road Trip (+ Map & Tips)
All lodges in Namibia organize sundowner/safari rides, so make sure you get to your lodge in time for the late afternoon ride. Day 3: Mariental - Fish River Canyon. Canyon Lodge for 2 nights. 410 km - 6hrs. Long drive from Mariental to Fish River Canyon, but luckily the first part was on a tarmac road.
An Incredible 10-Day Namibia Road Trip Itinerary
Special thanks to Mat-Travel Safaris and Tours for helping me plan both my Namibia road trips, organising all the logistics, and driving me around! I've only flown into Namibia for a road trip. However, it's totally possible to drive up from Cape Town or elsewhere in South Africa ... my trip from Walvis Bay to Etosha cost NAD 2,400 for ...
Cape Town to Etosha National Park
The cheapest way to get from Cape Town to Etosha National Park costs only $396, and the quickest way takes just 13½ hours. ... Road Safety. Bus interior. Road Safety. Namib Contract Haulage. Phone +264 61 234 164 ... Find all the transport options for your trip from Cape Town to Etosha National Park right here. Rome2Rio displays up to date ...
Cape Town To Namibia Road Trip South Africa Fish River Canyon Etosha
FROM $3,585. Per person sharing. Flights + car hire quoted separately. This epic Cape Town to Namibia road trip travels up the West Coast of South Africa via Langebaan, the Cederberg Mountains & Springbok to the mighty Fish River Canyon, before continuing via the Succulent Karoo & Luderitz to the sand dunes of the Namib Desert, Swakopmund, the ...
The ULTIMATE Guide + Itinerary for an EPIC Road Trip Through NAMIBIA
When I think back on all the trips I have done so far, my road trip from Cape Town to Windhoek will definitely go down as one of my all time favourites. The scenery and adventure in Namibia is ever-changing, diverse and truly exciting. ... only going as far north as Cape Cross before heading to Etosha will shave a good 1.5 hours and 140km off ...
Cape Town to Namibia Overland: Etosha National Park
The Etosha has scenery that ranged from open terrain filled with dirt and rocks, to low hanging trees, to savanna, to larger acacias dotting the landscape. When to visit Etosha. The Etosha is huge. At 22,000 sqkm, it's 50% bigger than the Serengeti, which is already 10x bigger than the Masai Mara.
Self Drive Camping Trip: Cape Town
Answered: Me and my boyfriend are planning a self drive camping trip of 15 days from Cape Town on November 20 with final destination in Etosha National Park, Namibia, being back in Cape Town on December 5th. We will rent a Subaru Foster car. We are studying...
Self Drive Camping Trip: Cape Town
Day 8: Henties Bay - Torrabaai (Skeleton Coast) (250km) Day 9: Torrabaai - Etosha National Park (500km) (2 nights) Day 11: Etosha National Park - Windhoek (441km) Day 12: Windhoek - Seeheim (500km) Day 13: Seeheim - Springbok (400km) Day 14: Springbok - Cape Town (600km) Report inappropriate content. 1.
A Visitor's Guide to the Etosha Salt Pan
Tourists can also arrive in Johannesburg and go on an epic road trip. Travelling from Johannesburg to Etosha is a roughly 14-hour drive through some of the most stunning South African and Namibian scenery. Driving from Cape Town is another option but it is a bit further than driving from Johannesburg, at around 1,800 kilometres.
Cape Town to Etosha
2 posts. Cape Town to Etosha. 8 years ago. Hi there. We are planing a 3 week trip to Etosha in July 2017. We will be camping - 2 families with 4 kids (ages 7 - 13). We ultimately want to spend a week in Etosha. We have never been to Namibia before and were hoping to get some advice on good places to stop at (and what to avoid) along the way.
driving from cape town to etosha
2. Re: driving from cape town to etosha. 10 years ago. Wee were planning to do something similar but the cost of one way vehicle hire plus flights made it very expensive. so ended up booking a 26 day trip leaving from Johannesberg through the Kaligadi up through Namibia then along the Caprivi strip and back through Botswana.
Etosha National Park to Cape Town
The cheapest way to get from Etosha National Park to Cape Town costs only $387, and the quickest way takes just 15 hours. ... Road Safety. Bus interior. ... Find all the transport options for your trip from Etosha National Park to Cape Town right here. Rome2Rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from ...
Capetown Airport (CPT) to Etosha National Park
Rome2Rio makes travelling from Capetown Airport (CPT) to Etosha National Park easy. Rome2Rio is a door-to-door travel information and booking engine, helping you get to and from any location in the world. Find all the transport options for your trip from Capetown Airport (CPT) to Etosha National Park right here.
driving from cape town to etosha
2. Re: driving from cape town to etosha. Wee were planning to do something similar but the cost of one way vehicle hire plus flights made it very expensive. so ended up booking a 26 day trip leaving from Johannesberg through the Kaligadi up through Namibia then along the Caprivi strip and back through Botswana.
Namibia to Victoria Falls trip
A big lion on the plain in Etosha National Park, one of the highlights of our Namibia to Victoria Falls trip. Day 7. Etosha (Okaukuejo Camp) - Grootfontein, 302 km/187 mi. Distance - 302 km/187 mi, tar, and gravel. Driving time - 4 hours it might take longer as the first half you drive through Etosha.
160 Etosha Safari Tours (Offered by 28 Tour Operators)
1-20 of 160 trips, packages and vacations to Etosha National Park 13-Day Highlights of Namibia Tour. $5,925 to $8,028 pp (USD ... Outjo (Town), Etosha NP, Eastern Etosha NP, Windhoek Airport (End) ... from the Namibian capital Windhoek to Etosha National Park along a paved road. But only the most impatient travelers make the journey in one hit ...
The 30 best safari holidays
How to do it: Newmarket Holidays (0330 341 1927) offers the 10-day On Safari in Botswana trip from £3,420pp, including flights, half-board accommodation, game drives and river cruise. Back to the top