Nambia's North Off The Beaten Tracks

ABOUT THIS TRIP

During this round trip, you will discover the unknown sides of northern Namibia as well as everything that makes for a successful Namibia trip, such as the majestic dunes of Sossusvlei, the Etosha National Park with its breathtaking animals and 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. Note: An SUV vehicle with a higher wheelbase is generally recommended, 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 Greater Windhoek
• 2x Sesriem
• 1x Sesriem
• 2x Usakos
• 2x Palmwag
• 2x Hobatere Concession
• 1x Etosha Park
• 2x Otjiwarongo

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 13x overnight stay in the Superior category ****
• 13x breakfast, 2x lunch, 12x dinner
• 1x rental car class BS (Toyota Urban Cruiser Automatic or similar)
• 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. 50 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).

VOIGTLAND GUESTHOUSE (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 1: GREATER WINDHOEK

SUNDOWNER DRIVE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 35 € PER PERSON

You take part in an approximately 3-hour guided sundowner drive. The sundowner drive is the ideal way to get to know Vogtland's 7,500 hectares of farmland and enjoy the tranquillity and vastness of Africa.
The farm is fully operational with a successful cattle breeding program. Around 230 Simmental cattle live on Voigtland, and you can learn a lot of interesting facts about their breeding.
With a little luck, you may also see giraffe, kudu, oryx, hartebeest, waterbuck, impala, mountain zebra and much more. The drive into the sunset with a panoramic view over the beautiful landscape is an unforgettable experience.

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

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 2 TO DAY 4 (APPROX. 410 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.

The NamibRand Family Hide Out is situated in the NamibNature Reserve, the largest private reserve in southern Africa. From the farmhouse you have a view of the endless expanse of the desert and a waterhole 50 meters away, where giraffes are often spotted. The house is for the exclusive use of you and your fellow travelers. (4 bedrooms: 2 bathrooms, outdoor shower (cold), kitchen, lounge, barbecue area)

NAMIBRAND FAMILY HIDE OUT (HOUSE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 4 TO DAY 5 (APPROX. 180 KM):

SESRIEM

The Namib Dune Star Camp is situated on the crest of a dune just 60 km north of Seriem. To get to the camp, the vehicle is parked at the sister lodge "Namib Desert Lodge" as you are not allowed to drive to the camp yourself. From the lodge you set off in the afternoon to Namib Dune Star Camp. In the summer months, you drive over the dunes to the camp in a 4×4 vehicle. In the winter months, you have the option of hiking to the camp. If you don't want to hike, you can also go for walks from the camp, relax on the terrace of your own chalet or sit on the sun deck of the main area to enjoy the breathtaking view over the vast dune landscape. This is also where the impressive sundowner takes place in the evening, where the setting sun bathes the landscape in golden light, followed by dinner with the other guests. The restaurant area with bar forms the main house, which was built on a large wooden platform. The nine guest bungalows are scattered around the main building and were also built on wooden platforms. They are simply but comfortably furnished and have a small en-suite bathroom with solar shower, toilet and washbasin. In addition to the double bed, there is a separate single bed, ideal for families. A desk, a small seating area in front of the double bed and a spacious veranda round off the facilities. The highlight in good weather is that you can push the double bed on wheels onto the veranda so that you can sleep under the Namibian starry sky. Certainly an unforgettable experience.
In the morning, you will meet up before sunrise to hike back to the Namib Desert Lodge together. On the way, your guide will tell you facts and anecdotes about life in the desert. At the end of the day, you will have breakfast together at the Namib Desert Lodge.

NAMIB DUNE STAR CAMP (STANDARD CHALET)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 5 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 585 KM):

USAKOS

Spitzkoppe is an inselberg 120 km east of Swakopmund that towers 700 meters above its surroundings. Due to its striking shape, it is also known as the "Matterhorn of Namibia" and is one of the most photographed mountains in the country. Spitzkoppe was formed by an intrusion that did not reach the earth's surface. Over the course of millions of years, the surrounding cap rock weathered away and only the hard granite of the intrusion remained. This is also the site of the millennia-old rock paintings, the most famous of which is the Bushman's Paradise. However, these paintings have been largely destroyed by vandalism.

Hohenstein Lodge is located at the foot of the highest mountain in the Erogne Massif. Spectacular sunsets over the desert plain make the mountain appear in a dreamlike red light in the evening. You can take part in various activities on site, such as game and prehistoric observations or hikes, for a fee (the tour language is English and takes place with other participants). (14 rooms: shower/WC, safe, terrace, mosquito net. Lodge: restaurant, pool, bar, fireplace, viewing terrace)

HOHENSTEIN LODGE (SUPERIOR ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 7 TO DAY 9 (APPROX. 335 KM):

PALMWAG

Northern Damaraland, around Palmwag, is characterized by bizarre mountains, curious rock formations, mighty table mountains and constantly changing and dramatic landscapes. The area is so diverse that there is a new view around almost every bend in the road. It is home to a large number of rare plant and animal species and animals that have adapted to the semi-desert conditions, such as desert elephants, mountain zebras and giraffes. It is also home to what is probably the world's largest group of black rhinos living in the wild. The unique flora and fauna of this area are considered a sight that can hardly be surpassed.

You take part in the "Etendeka Overnight Walking Trail", hike through the breathtaking landscape and spend the night under Namibia's wonderful starry sky. The first camp (River Camp) was built close to a waterhole, so that game viewing is also possible. The second camp (Hill Camp) is situated on a cliff on Crystal Mountain. From there you can enjoy a fantastic view of the landscape. Your sleeping area is a platform with a sun deck that is removed during the night (depending on the weather). An "open air bathroom" and a shared "bucket shower" are available. Cooking is done at the fireplace. You should have a basic level of fitness and be a nature lover, as you will be spending both nights and days exclusively outdoors.

ETENDEKA OVERNIGHT WALKING TRAIL (2 NIGHTS PACKAGE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD

DAY 9 TO DAY 11 (APPROX. 210 KM):

HOBATERE CONCESSION

The Hobatere Concession is situated about 65 km north of Kamanjab in Damaraland and borders the western Etosha National Park. The 8 808 ha concession area is home to elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, zebras, foxes and aardwolves. You have the opportunity to explore the area on game drives or go on an excursion to Etosha National Park.

Built with natural materials, the lodge blends in wonderfully with the landscape. From the terrace of the main building, you have a unique view of a waterhole and the surrounding wilderness. On site, you can take part in activities such as guided game drives with an experienced guide, for a fee (English-speaking and with other participants). (12 rooms: shower/WC, veranda, tea and coffee station. Lodge: restaurant, bar-lounge, veranda, pool).

HOBATERE LODGE (BUNGALOW WITH VERANDA)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 11 TO DAY 12 (APPROX. 70 KM):

ETOSHA PARK

The center of Etosha National Park, a huge encrusted salt pan, is undoubtedly impressive and can even be seen from space. The white area, as it was also called by the Bushmen, is surrounded by savannahs, bush and shrub forests, and in the west mountains rise up from the otherwise flat park. The numerous waterholes, some of which are artificial, are home to wild animals, especially during the long dry season. During the rainy season, water collects in the pan and the flamingos settle here to breed. The national park is home to an enormous variety of large and small animals. It is home to four of the Big Five (lion, rhino, elephant and leopard), as well as over 100 other mammal species and over 400 bird species and numerous reptiles and amphibians.
You can explore the Etosha National Park on your own in a rental car or on a guided safari.

The state-owned Dolomite Restcamp was built on a hill in an environmentally friendly way, mainly from natural materials, and blends in flatteringly with the landscape. From the rooms you have a great view of the Etosha Park. (25 chalets: bath/WC, mosquito net, safe, coffee and tea maker, terrace. Camp: lounge, pool, bar, restaurant).

DOLOMITE CAMP (BUSH CHALET)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 12 TO DAY 14 (APPROX. 370 KM):

OTJIWARONGO

Otjiwa Safari Lodge is Namibia's oldest game farm and covers an area of over 12,000 hectares of savannah in the northern part of the country.
The lodges are a mix of modern design and upmarket safari chic. The warm African flair of the interior is also reflected in the famous Namibian hospitality with which guests are pampered.
Numerous activities such as game drives, night drives and guided bike tours in the reserve are offered for a fee. A special safari highlight for many is rhino tracking, where you approach the impressive colossi on foot with an experienced guide. Those seeking relaxation will certainly find what they are looking for in the spa area.

The beautiful Eagle's Rest Lodge is the perfect place for a relaxing break. The spacious and open pool area is only a few meters away from a waterhole and you can also enjoy a wonderful view from the restaurant. The spacious rooms all have a shower/WC, air conditioning, fridge, tea/coffee station and a private veranda.

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

OTJIWA EAGLE'S REST LODGE (ELEGANT ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking. 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. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 must 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.

The Etosha National Park and the northern regions of Namibia (e.g. the Caprivi Strip) are areas at risk of malaria. Please ask your doctor whether prophylaxis is advisable for you.

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 BLUU CAR RENTAL

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: Gasoline, toll, deposit, Prem. Package: 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 550 NAD, handling fee for traffic fines 400 NAD, young driver surcharge under 23 years per day 165 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 9 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 11 (steak, fish) to EUR 21 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 1.50 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 239 for fuel 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.