Desert & Game

ABOUT THIS TRIP

This tour takes you with your rental car through the Kalahari Transfrontier Park and Namibia's south. Visit highlights such as the Kalahari with its red sand, the Transfrontier Park with its many lions, experience the breathtaking landscape of the Fish River Canyon, the Sesriem Canyon and the imposing dunes of Sossusvlei, as well as the capital Windhoek. Individual changes to the tour itinerary or the rental car category are possible on request, we will be happy to send you a personalized offer. An SUV vehicle with a higher wheelbase is a prerequisite for this trip, as there are many gravel tracks and unpaved roads. In the rainy season (November to May) we strongly recommend a four-wheel drive vehicle!

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 1x Windhoek
• 1x lime edge
• 1x Mata Mata
• 3x Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
• 1x Keetmanshoop
• 2x Fish River West
• 1x off
• 2x Sesriem
• 1x Greater Windhoek

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 13x overnight stay in the Superior category ****
• 13x breakfast, 3x lunch, 11x dinner
• 1x rental car class BS (Toyota Urban Cruiser Automatic or similar)
• six activities Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park incl. game drive
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Additional costs for rental car (conditions see below)

DAY 1: WINDHOEK

MEET & GREET

On arrival at Windhoek airport or at the agreed station, you will receive your rental car. A member of staff from our partner in Namibia will meet you at your accommodation in Windhoek to discuss the tour with you and give you valuable and up-to-date travel tips. You will receive further information with your travel documents.

You will also receive a 24-hour emergency telephone number where our German-speaking staff are available around the clock.

SA Travel supports the TOSCO Clean Travel project with 320NAD per person. Clean Travel uses the proceeds to plant indigenous trees in schools and local communities according to the permaculture principle.

DAY 1 TO DAY 2 (APPROX. 45 KM):

WINDHOEK

Welcome to the capital. Windhoek is the economic and political center of Namibia. The city is situated in the Windhoek Basin, the approximate geographical center of the country, bordered by the Eros Mountains in the east, the Auas Mountains in the south and the Khomas Highlands in the west. The name Windhoek is Afrikaans and is derived from "windy corner".
The colonial past and the influence of the German language and culture can be felt in many areas. Worth seeing are the monumental Supreme Court building, the Namibian National Museum in the "Alte Feste", the Christuskirche, the "Tintenpalast" parliament building and much more.

The House on Olof Palme is located in an upmarket and quiet part of Windhoek near the Erosberg mountains. The house is lovingly and personally managed by the owners. The pool in the green courtyard is a wonderful place to relax. (7 rooms: bath/WC, TV, W-Lan, minibar, air conditioning, safe and private entrance. Guest house: lounge, coffee and tea station, terrace, pool, garden)

HOUSE ON OLOF PALME (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 1 TO DAY 2 (APPROX. 45 KM):

WINDHOEK

OPTIONAL UPGRADE FROM 20 € PER PERSON

Welcome to the capital. Windhoek is the capital as well as the economic and political center of Namibia. The city is situated in the Windhoek Basin, the approximate geographical center of the country, bordered by the Erosberg Mountains in the east, the Ausasberg Mountains in the south and the Khomas Highlands in the west and north.
The colonial past and the influence of the German language and culture can be felt in many areas. Worth seeing are the monumental Supreme Court building, the Namibian National Museum in the "Alte Feste", the Christuskirche, the "Tintenpalast" parliament building and much more.

Hotel Heinitzburg is just a five-minute drive from the city center, with magnificent views over the city and the Khomas Highlands. The view from the restaurant and its terrace over the lights of Windhoek is just as spectacular as the African sunsets. The rooms are spacious, elegant and individual, no two are alike. (16 rooms: bath/WC, air conditioning, hairdryer, TV, radio, telephone, safe, minibar. Hotel: breakfast area, restaurant, panoramic terrace, garden with pool (heated in winter)).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

HEINITZBURG (STANDARD DELUXE ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2 TO DAY 3 (APPROX. 240 KM):

KALKRAND

In the south of the Tropic of Capricorn lies the Kalahari Desert, also known as the Kgalagadi. You will soon be able to see the reddish glow of the Kalahari Desert in the distance. Here, the green acacias and yellow grass stand in stark contrast to the blue sky and the red sand dunes of the Kalahari Desert, which stretch for hundreds of kilometers. The Kalahari shows its true beauty in the light of the setting sun, when it transforms the red sand into a shimmering fire and oryx antelopes or giraffes warm themselves in the last rays of the sun. The Kgalagdi is also a very special experience in the rainy season, when a green carpet emerges from the dried grass.

Intu Afrika Camelthorn Lodge is situated in a magnificent panoramic landscape of open grass plains, acacia woodlands and red sand dunes about 70km from Mariental. The main building of the rustic lodge blends into the landscape. Discover the Kalahari Desert in an open off-road vehicle, on a quad bike tour or follow in the footsteps of the Bushmen on a guided hike (for a fee, English-speaking, with additional persons). (12 rooms: bath/WC, air conditioning, coffee and tea making facilities. Hotel: pool, restaurant, boma, bar)

INTU AFRICA CAMELTHORN LODGE (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 2: LIMESTONE EDGE

SUNDOWNER DRIVE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 55 € PER PERSON

You take part in an approximately 3-hour guided sundowner drive in the Kalahari Desert. The sundowner drive is the ideal way to get to know the Kalahari Desert. As you drive over the red dunes, you have the opportunity to see various animals such as springbok, giraffe and oryx antelope. The drive into the sunset with a panoramic view over the Kalahari dunes is an unforgettable experience.

The tour language is English and the tour is conducted with additional people.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 3 TO DAY 4 (APPROX. 325 KM):

MATA MATA

Mata-Mata lies on the border between Namibia and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park, which is located on South African and Botswana soil. A last or first stopover in Namibia, where you can experience game viewing in the adjacent game reserves. Alternatively, you can simply use this stop as a stopover to break up the long journey between the Transfrontier Park and your previous or next destination in Namibia. Enjoy the peace and quiet and the view of the vastness and the red dunes of the Kalahari.

Kalahari Game Lodge is situated on the edge of the Auob Riverbed. From the pool, the main building and the private decks of the accommodation you have a great view of the river. Game drives are offered for a fee (English-speaking and with other participants). You can go on 4×4 drives with your own four-wheel drive vehicle. Those who want to be more active can go on short hikes. (8 chalets: bathroom/WC, kitchen with fridge and coffee/tea maker, terrace. Lodge: restaurant, bar, pool)

KALAHARI GAME LODGE (CHALET)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 4 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 140 KM):

KGALAGADI TRANSFRONTIER PARK

In 1999, South Africa's former Kalahari Gemsbok National Park was merged with the neighboring Gemsbok National Park of Botswana. The huge game reserve was named Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park. It covers an area of around 36,000 km² and provides an insight into the fascinating landscape of the Kalahari with its orange-red dune ranges and wildlife specially adapted to this dry savannah. The border between South Africa and Botswana is only marked by a few whitewashed stones. There are no fences. This allows the game to roam unhindered through both parts of the park in search of food and water.

You will spend the night at the !Xaus Lodge. From the private deck of the accommodation and the main building you have a good view of a salt pan further down. At this lodge you can enjoy the tranquillity of the red desert. Activities such as hikes, nature drives or visits to Bushmen villages are offered. The !Xaus Lodge is located in a remote part of the park in a unique landscape, where the density of animals is rather low. The lodge is owned by the local communities of Mier and Khomani San and is run jointly with Transfrontier Parks Destinations. (12 detached chalets: bathroom/WC, terrace, heating, fan. Lodge: restaurant, pool, fireplace lounge, viewing deck).

The price includes daily activities such as a night drive, a morning hike, a visit to a craft village, a sunset drive, a half-day game drive in a riverbed rich in wildlife and a further sunset or night drive of your choice. Transfers from/to Kamqua Picnic Site are also included. All activities and transfers are in English and are carried out with additional people.

!XAUS LODGE THREE NIGHTS PACKAGE (STANDARD CHALET)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 6 ACTIVITIES

DAY 7 TO DAY 8 (APPROX. 310 KM):

KEETMANSHOOP

Keetmanshoop is the most important town in southern Namibia. The town was founded in 1866 from a former mission station, which was named after a German merchant, Johann Keetmann. A highlight of the town is the quiver tree forest, which is located about 20 kilometers northeast of the town. The forest consists of around 250 trees scattered between granite rocks. The scenery is particularly photogenic at dawn or dusk. Another attraction is the Giant's Playground, where you will find bizarre rocks left behind by the "giants".

Stay at the modern Quiver Inn Guesthouse in the center of Keetmanshoop. Feel at home as you are warmly welcomed by the owners themselves. Warm days are particularly enjoyable in the cool courtyard under the trees. In the evening you can walk to the restaurants just a few meters away. (10 rooms: bathroom/WC, kitchen. Hotel: inner courtyard.)

QUIVER INN GUESTHOUSE (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 8 TO DAY 10 (APPROX. 180 KM):

FISH RIVER WEST

At around 650 km, the Fish River is the longest river in Namibia. It has its source in the eastern Naukluft Mountains and flows into the Orange at the South African border. The river, which rarely carries water, meanders through the famous Fish River Canyon. This is one of the most impressive natural beauties in the southern part of Namibia. With a depth of up to 550 meters, the Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon in America. The canyon winds its way over a distance of around 160 kilometers through the rugged Koubis mountain range down to Ai-Ais. The canyon is dotted with pools fed by groundwater. This is the only reason why various antelope species and leopards can survive here.

Surrounded by unique quiver trees, the design of Fish River Lodge blends in perfectly with its surroundings. The interior is a mixture of traditional and modern furniture, many of the accessories are made in the workshops of the surrounding San and Nama tribes. Authenticity, comfort and simplicity as well as a breathtaking view characterize the unique ambience of the lodge. The lodge offers guided hikes, excursions into the canyon, fat bike tours and nature tours (English-speaking, with other participants) for a fee. (20 rooms: shower/WC, outdoor shower. Hotel: restaurant, two bars, pool).

FISH RIVER LODGE (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 9: FISH RIVER WEST

CANYON HIKE OR CANYON EXCURSION

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 145 € PER PERSON

Today you will explore the Fish River Canyon.

You have the opportunity to explore the canyon on foot from April to October. You should bring a very good level of fitness for this hike, as the hike covers a distance of 16 km, during which you first descend into the canyon and then hike back up out of the canyon. Alternatively, you can do the day hike down into the canyon and choose to return in a pick-up.

As an alternative to the hike, a 4×4 vehicle will take you right into the heart of the canyon and although the descent is safe, it is guaranteed to get your heart rate up. An experienced guide will show you the geological features on your journey into the depths of the canyon. You'll see rough limestone, shiny quartz, fine shale and dramatic faults as 500 million years of history reveals itself.

For lunch (included) you stop at a rock pool, also ideal for a refreshing dip on warm days. Kudu, oryx, klipspringers and, with a bit of luck, mountain zebra can often be seen there.

Tour language is English and is conducted with additional persons.

Places on these tours are limited, we recommend booking in advance.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 10 TO DAY 11 (APPROX. 225 KM):

OFF

The settlement of Aus is situated in the Namib Desert, on the Huib Plateau, about 1500 meters above sea level. Due to its location, there is a second rainy season here in winter, which can transform the endless plains into a colorful sea of flowers. A place where you can come to rest, enjoy the silence, the endless expanses and the fantastic view of the Aus Mountains. The Gondwana Sperrgebiet invites active people to go on sporting excursions. The region is also home to the legendary wild horses of the Namib, which live in small groups on the barren plains. The small town of Lüderitz and the "ghost town of Kolmanskop" are also worth a day trip. There you can experience at first hand how people lived in the days of diamond fever.

At Eagles Nest in the Aus Mountains, you can enjoy solitude, endless silence and dramatic sunsets. From your bed you can marvel at the mountain landscape through the panoramic windows of the rustic chalets. You have the option of eating at the Desert Horse Inn or catering for yourself with a barbecue package. You can also discover the landscape on hikes, nature tours or mountain bike tours (for a fee, English-speaking, organized with other people). (7 chalets: shower/WC, fan, barbecue area, fridge, safe, veranda. Lodge: restaurant, bar and reception in the buildings of the Desert Horse Inn, approx. 15 minutes away by car)

EAGLES NEST (CHALET)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 11 TO DAY 13 (APPROX. 335 KM):

SESRIEM

The star dunes of the vlei, which reach a height of up to 300 meters, are among the highest sand mountains in the world. Especially in the early morning, the sun's rays create an indescribable play of colors on the sand of the dunes. The dead, almost 500-year-old trees in Dead Vlei, which is a sandy clay and salt pan adjacent to Sossusvlei that no longer receives any water, are bizarre. Dead Vlei is reached after a strenuous walk through the dunes. If you have a 4×4 vehicle, you can drive to the dunes yourself; with a "normal" car, you have to change to a shuttle vehicle at the end. Alternatively, the lodges offer guided drives into Sossusvlei. Another attraction in the park is the Sesriem Canyon, which is located at the entrance to the Sossusvlei dune area and can be explored on foot.

Desert Homestead Lodge is located about 30 kilometers southeast of the entrance to Sossusvlei. It lies in the middle of a 7,000-hectare private nature reserve. From the lodge you can enjoy an impressive panoramic view. Feel at home and experience the informal natural hospitality. For a fee, you can take part in a Sossusvlei excursion, horseback riding, nature tours or guided hikes (English-speaking and with other participants). If you prefer to explore the area on your own, you can also hike alone. (28 chalets: bathroom/WC, mosquito net, air conditioning (with solar power, limited use), terrace, fan. Lodge: restaurant, bar, pool, terrace, viewing deck, WiFi)

DESERT HOMESTEAD LODGE (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 11 TO DAY 13 (APPROX. 360 KM):

SESRIEM

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 290 € PER PERSON

The star dunes of the vlei, which reach a height of up to 300 meters, are among the highest sand mountains in the world. Especially in the early morning, the sun's rays create an indescribable play of colors on the sand of the dunes. The dead, almost 500-year-old trees in Dead Vlei, which is a sandy clay and salt pan adjacent to Sossusvlei that no longer receives any water, are bizarre. Dead Vlei is reached after a strenuous walk through the dunes. If you have a 4×4 vehicle, you can drive to the dunes yourself; with a "normal" car, you have to change to a shuttle vehicle at the end. Alternatively, the lodges offer guided drives into Sossusvlei. Another attraction in the park is the Sesriem Canyon, which is located at the entrance to the Sossusvlei dune area and can be explored on foot.

The Dead Valley Lodge is situated within the Namib Naukluft Park near Sesriem. This location gives you the opportunity to set off half an hour before the park opens to the world-famous Dead Valley, which is around 65 kilometers away.
The stylish accommodation is very open and airy and the earth tones of the furnishings complete the harmonious picture. From the pool and the veranda of your luxury tent, you have a sweeping view of the desert landscape. Excursions to Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon are offered by the lodge, for a fee (English-speaking and with other participants). (20 tented chalets: bath/WC, veranda with view, fridge, tea and coffee station, safe, mobile air-conditioning. Hotel: restaurant, bar, lounge, pool, terrace, WiFi).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DEAD VALLEY LODGE (LUXURY ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD

DAY 13 TO DAY 14 (APPROX. 280 KM):

GREATER WINDHOEK

Around Windhoek you can enjoy clean air without the hustle and bustle and noise. Experience the tranquillity of the African wilderness after your arrival or before your departure. The lodges near Windhoek are ideal to get in the mood for a round trip or to relax at the end of your journey. If you feel like it, you can also take part in activities such as game drives, nature or farm tours.

Voigtland Guesthouse is situated only 20 minutes from Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport. In the historic guesthouse, on the slopes of a hill, African and European style are combined in a relaxed farm atmosphere.
(4 rooms: shower/WC. Guesthouse: restaurant, pool).

Please return your rental car to Windhoek Airport or the agreed location at least two hours before departure.

VOIGTLAND GUESTHOUSE (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking and are based on the number of participants stated. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. From April 1, 2025, a tourist visa for Namibia must be obtained upon entry. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

This trip is malaria free.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

Left-hand traffic prevails on the roads of southern Africa.

CAR RENTAL CONDITIONS FROM EUROPCAR

The following services are included in the price: unlimited free mileage, accident/theft insurance without excess (incl. tires, roof, windscreen, underbody damage), liability insurance up to 10 million euros, one spare wheel, one additional driver, local taxes and fees.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally: Petrol, toll, deposit, border crossing fee to South Africa 1700 NAD.

The following services are not included in the price and may be charged locally: Delivery and pick-up costs on request, additional additional driver 572 NAD, handling fee for traffic fines 432 NAD, young driver surcharge 21-22 years per day 173 NAD, navigation device 120 ZAR per day (we recommend navigation with the free offline maps from Google).

To rent a vehicle, you will need a valid credit card issued to the main driver, an international driver's license and a passport. Each driver must have held a driver's license for at least two years. The deposit will be paid by credit card and will not be charged if the vehicle is returned with a full tank of fuel.

The local car rental company reserves the right to provide models of equal or higher value. The rental car mentioned is only an example of the confirmed vehicle class. The rates to be paid on the spot in NAD are determined by the local car rental company and are subject to change without notice.

This is an excerpt from the car rental conditions of the local car rental company, which you will receive when booking, or in advance if you wish. You will conclude a contract in English for the use of the rental car on site.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs around EUR 5 (small salad, soup) to EUR 8 (pizza, pasta, burger) per person, a dinner around EUR 10 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 12 (steak, fish) to EUR 22 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 1.60 per cup or glass. Prices may vary upwards or downwards depending on the region or type of restaurant.

A liter of fuel (petrol or diesel) costs around EUR 1. Allow around EUR 225 for fuel for this trip. Some roads are subject to tolls. Allow about 16 EUR for tolls for this trip.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.