Drifters Namibia & Angola Camping

Drifters' tours are full of adventure. The overland safari operator has been one of the largest and most renowned in southern Africa for over 40 years. The Namibia tour starts as a classic camping safari in twin tents and as an explorer safari in fixed comfortable accommodation. This description corresponds to the camping safari.

On the camping safari, you will spend the night in tents for two, camping beds are provided. This means that nobody has to sleep on mats on the floor. However, you must bring a sleeping bag and towels for this tour. Transportation is by non-air-conditioned safari truck. The tour language is English and the group composition (max. 16 participants) is international. This tour has an adventurous character, a certain open-minded attitude is necessary to participate. Single travelers may have to share a room with a fellow traveler of the same sex, a single room (optional) is also available on request.

Flights are not included in this tour. We are happy to arrange suitable flights or airport transfers as well as pre- or post-night stays on request. As the Drifters tours usually start early in the morning and only arrive back in the late afternoon, you should book at least one overnight stay at the start location and one overnight stay at the destination in order not to miss the start of the tour or the return flight.

Start dates and prices 2026/27 as PDF

Embark on an unforgettable 19-day adventure through Namibia and Angola—a journey that combines unspoiled wilderness, enriching cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. Your journey begins in Windhoek; from there, you’ll travel north to Etosha National Park, where world-class wildlife viewing kicks off your safari adventure. Immerse yourself in remote Angola and experience the thundering Ruacana Falls, the spectacular Leba Pass, and the fascinating, almost surreal beauty of the Namib Desert. Discover the region’s unique history and culture through encounters with nomadic tribes, a visit to the Cristo Rei statue, and stays in Angolan coastal towns such as Lobito and Lucira. Marvel at natural wonders such as the Kalandula Falls, the Colinas Hills, and the Tundavala Gorge, and enjoy a relaxing day on pristine beaches or hiking through the desert landscape. Explore Angola’s coastal waters on a boat trip to the “Gruta da Santa,” experience daily life on a working coffee and banana plantation, and indulge in the unique blend of Portuguese and African cuisine. The trip concludes with a city tour of Luanda, featuring, among other highlights, the Slave Museum, the Miradouro viewpoint, and a boat ride on the Cuanza River. Throughout the entire journey, the authentic “Drifters style” ensures up-close encounters with the people, wildlife, and landscapes of two of southern Africa’s most fascinating countries.

Day 1: Windhoek

Windhoek is the vibrant capital of Namibia—a country as large as France but with a population of just over 3 million. The city combines modernity with a rich history and is the ideal starting point for your adventure in southern Africa. In the afternoon, the journey begins with a short city tour, during which you’ll discover some of Windhoek’s highlights—from colonial-era architecture to the bustling streets and townships. All of this will give you a first impression of Namibia’s culture and atmosphere. In the evening, we’ll dine at the legendary “Joe’s Beerhouse,” where local specialties and international classics come together in a convivial setting (at your own expense).

Overnight stay with breakfast at the Mercure Hotel Windhoek or similar

Day 2: Etosha to Taleni (420 km)

We rise with the African sun, enjoy our breakfast, and then set off northward—to one of Africa’s most outstanding wildlife areas: Etosha National Park. Our route takes us through vast plains and past numerous small towns and settlements, offering us glimpses of rural life in Namibia amid this vast, semi-desert landscape. Along the way, we enjoy a picnic prepared in our vehicle’s impressive on-board kitchen. In the late afternoon, we arrive at Taleni Etosha Village, our lodging for the night. Here, the contrast between the desert landscape and the diverse wildlife already sets the stage for the adventure ahead.

Overnight stay with full board at the Taleni Village Campsite or similar.

Day 3: Etosha National Park

Today, you’ll fully immerse yourself in the unique ecosystem of Etosha National Park for the first time. After breakfast, we’ll set out on a full-day game drive to discover the fascinating wildlife that has made Etosha so famous. From elephants and lions to rare species such as black-faced impalas and black rhinos, the park offers an unparalleled safari experience. The Drifters truck—with its large, openable windows, elevated seating, and plenty of comfort—is the ideal vehicle for exploring this spectacular wildlife reserve. Lunch is served either while traveling in the truck or at one of the stops, so you won’t miss a single opportunity for wildlife viewing. After an eventful day, we’ll spend the night at one of the camps in the park and enjoy a dinner prepared by Drifters under the African starry sky.

Overnight stay with full board at a camp in Etosha National Park or similar.

Day 4: Etosha National Park

Let the sounds of the bush wake you up and enjoy breakfast at camp before setting out for another exciting day of wildlife viewing. Guided game drives take you to waterholes where animals gather—an experience that offers up-close encounters and excellent photo opportunities. The park’s landscape changes throughout the day—from the morning mist to the golden light of the afternoon—providing the perfect backdrop for your safari. Occasionally, we’ll simply linger at a waterhole and watch the numerous animals quenching their thirst there. Lunch is served en route, while dinner is prepared at camp. Relax and reflect on the day’s wildlife encounters.

Overnight stay with full board at a camp in Etosha National Park or similar.

Day 5: Etosha National Park to Ruacana (approx. 365 km)

A morning game drive offers our last chance to observe wildlife before we continue our journey north. We leave Etosha National Park and drive northwest through the characteristic mopane landscape to the Ruacana Falls, where the gently meandering Kunene River plunges into the depths of the desert on its long journey to the Atlantic Ocean. This stretch of the river also forms the border with Angola. We stop at the impressive waterfalls and marvel at the spectacular scenery. After lunch at the falls, we cross the border into Angola at this remote border crossing. As soon as the formalities are completed, we drive a short distance into the desert to our first wild camp—an incomparable experience, being all alone in the bush. We’ll prepare dinner over a campfire, enjoy the evening, and fall asleep under the vast African sky in the heart of the Angolan desert, lulled by the sounds of nature.

Overnight stay with full board at Ruacana Wild Camp or similar.

Day 6: Ruacana to Oncocua (approx. 215 km)

After waking up to the rising sun, we enjoy breakfast and travel deeper into Angola, crossing remote landscapes that few people have ever seen. Along the way, we gain insights into the traditional way of life of nomadic tribes who have called this seemingly inhospitable environment home for centuries. Lunch is served right at the vehicle to fortify us for the rest of the adventure. In the late afternoon, we reach our camp near Oncocua. Here, we may have the opportunity for casual encounters with members of the Vatuas, Muacahova, and Himba tribes, who use this place as a meeting point and trading post—a rare experience that offers an authentic, uncommercialized glimpse into their culture. We set up camp in the middle of vast plains, which gives us the feeling of being far off the beaten path. We then enjoy dinner under the open sky.

Overnight stay with full board at Oncocua Wild Camp or similar

Day 7: Oncocua to Lubango (approx. 350 km)

After breakfast at the camp, we set off up the steep cliff toward the highland city of Lubango, passing through picturesque valleys, areas of small-scale farming, and mountainous landscapes. Upon arrival in the city, we’ll make a stop to admire the “Cristo Rei” statue of Christ (one of only three of its kind in the world) and enjoy the panoramic view from this elevated vantage point—an impressive monument and a famous lookout spot. We’ll spend the evening in comfort at a well-appointed lodge in the city, which features an inviting swimming pool as well as cozy rooms and dining areas. Dinner will be served at the lodge’s restaurant (at your own expense) and offers your first chance to sample the unique cuisine born from the fusion of Portuguese and African flavors. Take this time to relax and recharge your energy for the many adventures ahead.

Overnight stay with breakfast and lunch at Casper Lodge or a similar establishment.

Day 8: Lubango to Colinas Hills (approx. 300 km)

We begin the day with a visit to the impressive Tundavala Gorge; from the edge of the cliff, there is a breathtaking view across the endless plains that stretch all the way to the coast far below. We then begin our descent and, along the way, visit the graves of the “Thirstland Trekkers”—a brief historical glimpse into the lives of those pioneer farmers who once crossed the Kalahari to find a new home here. A highlight of the morning is the drive over the picturesque Leba Pass, whose twelve striking hairpin turns lead us down into the desert landscape of the coastal plain. We’ll have lunch right by the vehicle along the way. In the afternoon, we finally reach the sandy landscapes of the Namib Reserve, where we set up camp amid the hills and gorges of this remote area. We enjoy dinner under the starry sky—a unique experience in this barren yet breathtakingly beautiful setting.

Overnight stay with full board at Colinas Hills Desert Camp or similar.

Day 9: Colinas Hills to Soba Beach Lodge (approx. 155 km)

After breakfast and breaking camp, we make our way back through the sand to the coast, where we’ll make a short stop and take a walk along the harbor in Moçâmedes. We’ll then continue our journey along this remote, rugged coastline to Praia do Soba—a beautifully situated lodge where we’ll spend the next two nights. We’ll have lunch in the vehicle along the way. The Soba Beach Lodge is a truly unique place: the individual accommodations are scattered right along the edge of a rugged peninsula that towers high above the Atlantic Ocean. The property is surrounded by hidden stairways, small coves, rock formations, and beautiful beaches. The lodging options are varied, ranging from one-, two-, or three-room cabins (mostly with shared bathrooms); however, the extraordinary surroundings more than make up for any minor inconveniences. Meals at the lodge consist mainly of locally caught seafood prepared on an open grill—a true culinary delight. Dinner is served at the lodge, so you can relax and listen to the sound of the waves.

Overnight stay with full board at Praia do Soba or similar

Day 10: Soba Beach Lodge

Spend the whole day exploring this paradise of secluded beaches, coves, and desert landscapes on foot at your own pace, or simply relax at the lodge and enjoy the view. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at the lodge and feature a selection of local seafood. This day offers the opportunity to unwind right by the ocean, take a moment to reflect, and recharge.

Overnight stay with full board at Praia do Soba or similar

Day 11: Soba to Lucira (approx. 160 km)

After a relaxed but hearty breakfast, we’ll drive a short distance back into the rugged desert landscape before continuing our journey north along the coast toward Lucira—a small, rural fishing village where we’ll enjoy a light lunch on the beach from our support vehicle. In the afternoon, we’ll take a ride on a local fishing boat across the bay to the “Gruta da Santa,” Angola’s equivalent of the “Blue Grotto.” Along the way, we hope to encounter the fascinating marine life drawn to these extremely nutrient-rich waters; dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, among others, call this area home. Please note that this activity is weather-dependent and may be canceled if conditions are unfavorable. We’ll have dinner at the beach camp while enjoying the sunset and the peaceful surroundings.

Overnight stay with full board at a camp on Lucira Beach or similar.

Day 12: Lucira to Lobito (approx. 250 km)

After a leisurely breakfast and a swim in the ocean, we set off again toward the interior. We leave Lucira and drive through Benguela—the region’s fifth-largest city and an important commercial hub—on our way to the small resort town of Lobito. Along the way, we’ll stop for a light lunch. Our hotel for tonight is located in the lively Restinga neighborhood; you’re free to spend the afternoon as you wish and explore the area—whether it’s the beaches, historic buildings, the harbor, cafés, beer gardens, or other attractions. We’ll have dinner at the “Luna Beach Restaurant” or a similar establishment (at your own expense).

Overnight stay with breakfast and lunch at a hotel in Lobito or similar.

Day 13: Lobito to Rio Uiri (approx. 290 km)

After a leisurely breakfast and the pleasure of freshly baked pastries, we continue our journey northward, where more tropical vegetation and scenery await us. Today’s route takes us back into the highlands; for lunch, we’ll stop at the Binga Waterfall, where the Keve River plunges down into the expansive plain below. We then drive further inland through forested hills dotted with banana plantations to our destination: a working coffee and banana plantation—a setting that is completely different from anything we’ve experienced so far in Angola. In the evening, enjoy a rustic dinner in a historic barn and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

Overnight stay with full board at a farm in Rio Uiri or similar.

Day 14: Rio Uiri Farm

Spend a full day immersing yourself in the daily life of a remote African coffee and banana plantation: explore the grounds, get to know the staff, take a guided tour, relax by the pool, hike and explore the surrounding area, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet—whatever you prefer. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served on the farm and offer you an authentic glimpse into rural life in Angola.

Overnight stay with full board at a farm in Rio Uiri or similar.

Day 15: Rio Uiri to Pedras Negras (approx. 410 km)

Well-rested, we set out from the farm after breakfast to tackle the remaining climb to the plateau. For lunch, we stop at a small local restaurant—the “Candimba” in Quibala—where we dine alongside the local people. Our journey continues on well-maintained roads almost all the way to Pungo Andongo; the area is characterized by massive granite monoliths that tower high above the surrounding savanna. Until the siege in 1671, this place was the capital of the Kingdom of Andongo. This afternoon (or alternatively, the following morning), we’ll explore the unique “Black Rocks” on foot. (Birdwatchers can keep an eye out here for numerous species they’ve never seen before.) We’ll spend the night wild camping at the foot of one of the giant monoliths. Dinner will be served right at the camp, bringing another adventurous day to a close.

Overnight stay with half-board at the Pedras Negras Wild Campsite or similar.

Day 16: Pedras Negras to Kalandula (approx. 150 km)

After breakfast, we’ll take a walk amid this scenic beauty before traveling the short distance to one of the undisputed highlights of this trip: the magnificent Kalandula Falls. These falls are nearly as high and wide as the more famous Victoria Falls, but differ in that they have remained largely untouched by tourism. We’ll explore the area to our heart’s content and enjoy lunch—served right at the lookout point, almost amidst the spray of this natural treasure. After taking in the view from the west side, we’ll drive about 45 kilometers to the east bank, where we’ll set up camp for the night; our campsite is located next to a local hotel that features a fantastic swimming pool with an extraordinary view of the waterfalls. We spend the evening gazing at the waterfalls as the light fades and the day draws to a close.

Overnight stay with full board at Kalandula Campsite or similar.

Day 17: Kalandula to Cuanza (approx. 430 km)

Start the day with breakfast in Kalandula before loading the truck for the final scenic drive south toward Luanda and the mouth of the Cuanza River. Along the way, you’ll experience Angola’s diverse landscape: from rolling hills and lush farmland, the route leads from the highlands down into almost surreal-looking valleys filled with giant baobab trees. We’ll bypass the capital and continue south to the coast and the mighty mouth of the Cuanza River. Lunch is planned for along the way. Upon arrival at the lodge near the river mouth, you’ll first have a chance to settle in and relax from the long drive in the tropical surroundings before setting out on a boat trip along the mighty Cuanza River. The tour takes us through pristine forests teeming with a rich variety of birdlife—a truly magnificent sight. In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner at the lodge, reflect on the adventures of the past two weeks, and prepare for the final day of your exploration.

Overnight stay with full board at Cuanza Lodge or similar

Day 18: Cuanza to Luanda (approx. 80 km)

We’ll enjoy an early breakfast before loading the car and setting off for our final day of sightseeing. On our way into the city, we’ll discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Angola’s capital: We’ll visit the Slave Museum, the Miradouro viewpoint, and—depending on availability—a successful wildlife rehabilitation center. We’ll have lunch at a local restaurant during the tour (at your own expense), giving you another chance to enjoy Angolan cuisine. In the evening, we’ll wrap up the trip with a festive dinner at a restaurant in the city (at your own expense) and raise a toast to our incredible journey through these two fascinating countries.

Overnight stay with breakfast at the Luanda Hotel or similar

Day 19 Luanda

Your adventure ends after breakfast at the hotel. You will be taken to the airport for your connecting flight (at your own expense). Take home unforgettable memories of the deserts, wildlife, rivers, beaches, cuisine, and, of course, the vibrant culture.