10-Day Etosha, Kaokoveld, Damaraland And Sossusvlei Safari

The country of Namibia is extremely rich in natural resources. ‘Fairy circles,’ large wildlife, towering sand dunes, unrestricted stargazing, and distinctive towns that represent the ‘cultural clash’ of Africa and Europe are all features of the old Namib Desert, which is bordered by the unpredictable Atlantic Ocean, which draws in cool air and gives life to countless creatures.

One of the greatest ways to explore is by flying since it is so big — the size of France and Germany combined with a population of barely two million people. Flying over Namibia’s capital, Windhoek, you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking array of browns, khakis, golds, and reds as they give way to verdant plains and verdant vegetation as you approach the world-famous Etosha National Park. Game lovers will find utopia in Etosha, with to its diverse array of big game and 300+ bird species.

The next stop should be in the Marianfluss Valley, which is close to the Kunene River. This is the homeland of the Himba people and the site of the enigmatic “fairy circles,” which are perfectly spherical areas on the plains where no vegetation can be found. Before drawing to a close at the Sossusvlei—famous for its red sand dunes and the much-photographed ‘Dead Vlei’—make a pit stop at the Twyfelfontein Conservancy in Namibia.

Those who are patient and can peacefully enjoy Namibia’s vast open spaces and enormous vistas will be rewarded with a 10-Day Etosha, Kaokoveld, Damaraland And Sossusvlei Safari that is ideal for individuals who like to travel off the beaten path or who are seeking isolation.

A Detailed 10-Day Etosha, Kaokoveld, Damaraland And Sossusvlei Safari

Days 1-2: Big Game Thrills in Etosha | 2 Nights

After touching down in Windhoek, your guide will take you to Windhoek Eros Airport, where you can catch a short flight to Etosha National Park. Your two-night residence, Onguma—The Fort, will be whisked away the moment you touch down at the Mokuti Airstrip. Established in 1907, Etosha is a one-of-a-kind mosaic of vast dry pans and savannah that hosts a diverse array of animals, including 144 different kinds of mammals, 300 different kinds of birds, and free-roaming game.

Enjoy exciting half-day drives through this massive park, thrilling night drives where your senses will be on high alert to pick up a nearby nocturnal animal, and guided walks that will put you in touch with the tiny but astonishing insects, flowers, birds, and trees that live here to maximise your chances of spotting a favourite or long-sought-after sighting. Etosha is home to some unusual elephants, including some of the largest in Africa with disproportionately tiny tusks caused by a mineral-deficient diet and a mix of hereditary abnormalities. Both the black rhino and the black-faced impala are in risk of extinction, and this region is famous for protecting them.

Days 3-4: Fairy Circles in the Sand | 2 Nights

In the morning, say goodbye to The Fort and Etosha with fondness, and then take off for the magnificent Marianfluss Mountains in Namibia’s northern Hartmann Valley, where the Himba people live. The magnificent views from the tents of Serra Cafema Camp are provided by the Kunene River, which is also the border between Angola and Namibia. The camp is situated on the banks of this river.

Take it easy in the lounge or on the poolside sundeck all day. Learn about the Himba people, their culture, and their creative solutions to the challenges posed by their sometimes harsh environment by visiting a real Himba hamlet. Birdwatching from a boat is second to none; just keep an eye out for the odd crocodile in the Kunene.

Those with more energy would choose to put on their hiking boots and go on a walking safari through the valley, perhaps in pursuit of Marianfluss’s faerie circles. Particularly noticeable from a chartered scenic flight, this perplexing phenomenon is marked by circular regions of land devoid of vegetation, which impart a polka-dot appearance to the environment.

Days 5-6: Uncover the Kaokoveld | 2 Nights

Your two nights’ stay at the cosy Okahirongo Elephant Lodge in the middle of the Kaokoveld will begin after breakfast at Serra Cafema. The lodge is located in isolated northwest Namibia and is ideal for a relaxing getaway.

Each of the houses has its own distinct character and is adorned in a vibrant blend of African colours. Enjoy your stay at this stunning lodge with its breathtaking panoramic view while lounging by the pool, reading a book in the library, unwinding in one of the two outdoor lounges, or getting a massage. Every day brings a new dish that deftly combines Italian and African flavours. One of the two dining rooms or the traditional boma, illuminated by fire, under the stars, is the perfect setting for a candlelit dinner.

The Kaokoveld is unique among desert ecosystems since it is home to elephants, black rhinos, giraffes, lions, and other African creatures. Embark on an awe-inspiring elephant tracking adventure through this Namibian gem.

Day 7: The Place of God | 1 Nights

A relaxing breakfast will prepare you for Damaraland. Mowani Mountain Camp, located in the Twyfelfontein Conservancy midway between the Huab and Ugab rivers, is the destination of the picturesque flight. Mowani literally means “the place of god,” and the moment you step foot here, you’ll understand why.

Relax with a drink in hand as you bask in the African sun on the pool deck tucked away amongst boulders at Mowani Mountain Camp. Visit the Twyfelfontein rock carvings after lunch. After a day of sundowners at the camp, enjoy supper and a restful night’s sleep in a deluxe tent with elegant furnishings and an East African theme.

Days 8-9: Unwind in Sossusvlei | 2 Nights

Swakopmund, a German beach village, is your lunch destination when you charter a flight. After lunch, you can reach the Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in the boundless Namib-Naukluft Reserve by a short plane ride.

Sossusvlei offers a luxurious way to observe the desert environment up close. In an effort to capture the beauty and seclusion of its surroundings, the lodge features a simple and unpretentious design. Before you head back to your suite, have a drink at the bar or on the sundowner deck. A skylight over the bed allows you to look at the stars before you fall asleep, and suites often include large, furnished patios with plunge pools.

The following day, take a 4×4 tour in the morning and afternoon to discover the distinctive Namib-Naukluft, which is known for its infinite grassy plains and breathtaking mountain formations. Find the big and small desert creatures as well as the old hunting grounds of the indigenous San people. Let the vastness of the desert, the open sky, and the boundless nature nourish your spirit. Visit Deadvlei, a salty-white clay pan accented with dead black acacia bushes set against the bright orange sand dunes, or go on an excursion to Sossusvlei and climb the Big Daddy dune. In addition to hot-air balloon rides, ATV tours can also be reserved in advance. Swakopmund, a German beach village, is your lunch destination when you charter a flight. After lunch, you can reach the Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in the boundless Namib-Naukluft Reserve by a short plane ride.

Sossusvlei offers a luxurious way to observe the desert environment up close. In an effort to capture the beauty and seclusion of its surroundings, the lodge features a simple and unpretentious design. Before you head back to your suite, have a drink at the bar or on the sundowner deck. A skylight over the bed allows you to look at the stars before you fall asleep, and suites often include large, furnished patios with plunge pools.

The following day, take a 4×4 tour in the morning and afternoon to discover the distinctive Namib-Naukluft, which is known for its infinite grassy plains and breathtaking mountain formations. Find the big and small desert creatures as well as the old hunting grounds of the indigenous San people. Let the vastness of the desert, the open sky, and the boundless nature nourish your spirit. Visit Deadvlei, a salty-white clay pan accented with dead black acacia bushes set against the bright orange sand dunes, or go on an excursion to Sossusvlei and climb the Big Daddy dune. In addition to hot-air balloon rides, ATV tours can also be reserved in advance.

Day 10: Farewell Namibia

Have a leisurely meal and some tea in bed first thing in the morning. After saying your goodbyes to Namibia, you will be taken to the airstrip.

End of the 10-Day Etosha, Kaokoveld, Damaraland And Sossusvlei Safari

Inclusions

  • Meals:
    Onguma The Fort : Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
    Serra Cafema Camp : Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary : Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
    Mowani Mountain Camp : Half Board
    Sossusvlei Desert Lodge : Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
  • All necessary permits, conservancy and park fees
  • All activities specified, including morning and evening game drives each full day on safari
  • 24/7 assistance and support during your trip

Exclusions

  • Your international flights to and from Africa + any related taxes
  • Any travel visas you require (though we help you with this)
  • Tips
  • Personal items (eg. travel insurance, souvenirs)