Namibia's red dunes, windswept coast, varied wildlife, and vast landscapes
Days: 11 | From: $8,274/per person
- Includes accommodations at best in class hotels and lodges
- Travel with an expert private guide in a custom safari vehicle
Climb the giant red sand dunes and marvel at the petrified trees of Sossusvlei, explore the wild windswept Skeleton Coast, track desert-adapted rhino and elephant in the rocky outcrops of Damaraland, and safari in Etosha National Park.
Inquire about this tripTalk to a Vaya Africa Specialist
We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired.
We consistently receive 5 star reviews from our discerning clients.
At a glance
- Windhoek
1 nights: Discover Namibia's quaint capital city - Sossusvlei
2 nights: Climb the giant red dunes and visit the petrified trees of Dead Vlei as you take in an epic desert sunrise - Swakopmund
2 nights: Explore the rugged Skeleton Coast, where dunes meet the sea in the adventure capital of Namibia - Twyfelfontein
2 nights: Search for desert-adapted rhino and elephant and visit the ancient cave paintings of this rocky region - Etosha National Park
3 nights: Safari at Ongava Private Game Reserve in search of iconic African wildlife
All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.
Customize this trip
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Sample itinerary
Welcome to Namibia
Arrive to Windhoek. Situated in central Namibia, this quiet yet cosmopolitan city is a mix of historical architecture and modern buildings and offers a range of shopping and dining options. Upon arrival you will be met by your guide and transferred to your boutique hotel for the evening.
Accommodations: Am Weinberg Boutique Hotel
The Am Weinberg Boutique Hotel is an elegant 41-room hotel wrapped around a heritage building, creating an inviting courtyard. The hotel blends historic character with modern amenities, and offers a convenient location in Windhoek as well as spectacular views. Hotel guests have access to facilities including the Soulstice Day Spa and five upscale restaurants.
*Includes: BreakfastThe Journey begins: Drive to Sossusvlei
Drive through Namibia’s otherworldly landscapes as you make your way south, accompanied by your expert private guide. You are headed for iconic Sossusvlei, home of Namibia’s towering red sand dunes, some of the tallest in the world. The clear blue skies contrast with the giant red dunes to make this one of the most scenic natural wonders of Africa and a photographer’s dream setting.
Accommodations: Hoodia Desert Lodge, 2 nights
Hoodia Desert Lodge is located 20 minutes from Sesriem, Namibia, the entrance to the world famous red sand-dunes of the Sossusvlei. The lodge is surrounded by majestic mountains on the banks of the Tsauchab River, and offers 11 luxurious thatched chalets. Each chalet has an ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning, an open-air shower, and coffee facilities. The lodge features a shaded deck and pool area, a lounge with a fireplace, a restaurant, and an elegant bar.
*Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerRed Dunes of Sossusvlei
Watch as these iconic dunes come alive in the early morning light. Hike to the top of one of these behemoths and sit in silence as you take in the awesome sunrise.
Sossusvlei is home to a variety of desert wildlife, including oryx, springbok, ostrich, and a variety of reptiles. Keep an eye out for these animals as you traverse this expanse and explore Deadvlei, a white salt claypan dotted with ancient, petrified trees.
For a unique perspective on the area, scenic flights and hot air ballooning are on offer, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime champagne breakfast amidst these majestic dunes.
Drive to Swakopmund
Cruise the open road with your private guide as you make your way to Swakopmund. Set along Namibia’s spectacularly scenic coast, the seaside town of Swakopmund is known for its wide-open avenues, colonial architecture, and surrounding desert terrain. This is also the gateway to the Skeleton Coast, where dramatic sand dunes meet the churning sea.
The quirky mix of German and Namibian influences, adventure options, laid-back atmosphere and cool sea breeze make this an ideal destination for nature and adventure lovers.
Accommodations: The Strand Hotel, 2 nights
The Strand Hotel is located directly on the Mole seaside promenade, surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic Ocean, with direct access to Swakopmund's main beach. On the fourth side, the hotel backs up to the town’s beautiful central park, through which it is a five minute walk to the historic center of this charming German-colonial seaside town, with all its shops, cafés, restaurants and bars.
*Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerA day in Swakopmund
Explore the magnificent coastline. Schedule a scenic flight over shipwrecks, drive the beach in a 4X4, and witness the meeting of dunes and sea as you search for the smaller creatures of the desert on a private tour. Visit the Cape Cross sea lion colony, or head out on a catamaran for the day in pursuit of other marine life.
For those who crave a little more action, paragliding, horseback riding, quad biking, sandboarding, and fishing are all on offer and can be arranged by your Vaya Specialist.
Travel to Twyfelfontein
Head north to the Kunene Region to visit Twylfelfontein, a spectacularly scenic area featuring one of the largest and most important concentrations of rock art in Africa.
The name ‘Twyfelfontein’ translates to ‘Fountain of Doubt,’ which refers to the perennial spring situated in the impressive Huab Valley, flanked by the slopes of a sandstone table mountain. It was this spring that attracted Stone Age hunters over six thousand years ago, and it was during this time that the extensive group of rock engravings and paintings were produced.
Your luxury lodge is set cleverly among the rocks, with sweeping views of this gorgeous landscape.
Accommodations: Mowani Mountain Camp, 2 nights
Mowani Mountain Camp is set among the stunning landscapes of Damaraland. Dwarfed by massive ochre boulders, the camp blends beautifully into the landscape. Each of the luxury tented suites offers magnificent desert views, open-air en suite bathrooms, and private decks that allow tranquil privacy and incredible stargazing.
*Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerA day in Twyfelfontein
In addition to ancient rock paintings and sweeping views, this region is also known as the only place on earth that elephant and rhino have successfully adapted to life in the desert.
Together with your expert local guide, climb aboard an open safari vehicle and go in search of these shy creatures. With an intimate understanding of the land, your guide will take you by vehicle and on foot to spot these elusive giants as you gain an appreciation for the botany, geology and wildlife of the region.
This afternoon, enjoy your surroundings from the shade of your suite’s private deck or from the cool waters of the pool.
Travel to Etosha National Park
Journey across more sweeping landscapes with your private guide and vehicle, headed toward Ongava Private Game Reserve and Etosha National Park.
Sharing the southern boundary with Etosha National Park, the prolific 30,000-hectare private Ongava Game Reserve is considered one of the top private game reserves in the region, enjoying global recognition for exceptional conservation, groundbreaking research, and exciting safari experiences. The landscape is characterized by vast open plains dotted with salt pans and abundant wildlife.
Accommodations: Anderssons at Ongava, 2 nights
Ensuring a light footprint and an exceptional experience, Anderssons at Ongava bordering Etosha National Park uses colors, textures and materials that connect guests more closely to the safari experience.
The Anderssons at Ongava guest suites are designed as a direct extension of the landscape, with a natural stone buttress that draws guests in and engenders a deep sense of place. Using natural elements and luxurious touches, the spacious suites reflect the environment, while offering guests a climate-controlled sanctuary in the bush. Each suite has a private viewing deck with a 180 degree panorama view of the wilderness.
*Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerSafari in Etosha
Explore the salt pans in search of iconic African wildlife as you have a full day on safari. You have the option to game drive in both the private reserve and the national park today.
One of Ongava’s top attractions is its healthy population of rhinos, which can often be seen at a series of waterholes. You can also enjoy nighttime game drives, guided nature walks, and bird watching during your time here.
Full day in Etosha
Farewell Africa
Enjoy a last short drive with your private guide before saying farewell and catching your flight home or onward to your next destination. Should you find yourself with a long layover we are happy to arrange for some touring in Windhoek, lunch or a day room to relax before your long flight.
More Photos From This Trip
Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary
Choose from a selection of carefully curated lodges and hotels to ensure this trip fits your exact travel style.
Schedule a scenic hot air balloon flight over the mystical dunes of Sossusvlei and land for a champagne breakfast.
Fly over the Skeleton Coast on a scenic flight, searching for the shipwrecks that dot the shore.
Include some downtime for rest and relaxation! Some free time to unwind or have a massage will allow you to feel refreshed and ready for the remainder of your trip. Many of our properties include excellent spas or wellness centers. We can help arrange these services or include properties that offer health & wellness amenities.
Add some time in neighboring South Africa or Botswana for an additional safari.
Add a beach extension and spend some relaxing downtime on the pristine white sands of the Indian Ocean. Mauritius, Seychelles and Mozambique are just a short flight away.
Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip.
Why Travel with Vaya?
We're TRUE specialists
We’ve not only traveled there, we’ve lived there. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former expatriates with years of experience in the region.
Uplifting service
From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.
Thoughtful travel
Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.