Winter Summer
Check in at Windhoek station. 11:30 12:30
Depart. 12:00 13:00
Game drive at Oropoko. 15:30 16:30
Dinner. 19:00 19:00
Overnight at a secure siding
Breakfast. 07:00 07:00
Dune excursion. 08:00 08:00
Arrive Swakopmund Saturdays 10:00 10:00
Winter time April—Sept.
Dinner 19:00 & 21:00 if two sittings are required
Smoking on The Desert Express is only allowed in demarcated areas.
You can only take the luggage that you will need to take with you, the rest will be in Swakopmund when you arrive there.
Day 2
Desert Express - Swakopmund
Arrival in Swakopmund at 1000, we will meet you at the stop point. We will book in at the Hotel Schweizerhaus. Stay the day in and around Swakopmund. Have a city tour and then you have time to explore it on your own in the afternoon. The hotel is close to the town center and to the beach.
Day 3
Swakopmund - Walvis Bay - Solitar - Weltevrede Guest Farm
Depart from Swakopmund after breakfast. We will pass Walvis Bay, the biggest harbour town, to go into the Namib Naukluft Park. We will stop at Solitaire for fuel and get some of the best Apple Pie before we will travel down to Weltevrede Guest Farm. We will have an early night, because the next morning will be a very early start.
Day 4
Weltevrede Guest farm - Sesriem Gate - Dune 45 - Dooivlei -
Sossusvlei - Sesriem Gate - Sesreim Canyon - Bullspoort - Garies
We need to pack the car before leaving. We will stay on the other side of the Naukluft Mountain. We need to start early so that we can arrive at Sesriem Gate when it opens, to be in the dunes before it is too hot. From here we will drive to Dune 45. It is most likely to be the most famous dune in Namibia; even if it is not the highest dune. After climbing the dune, for the ones that feel up to it, we move down to the 4x4 stop area. From here we will go on a shuttle into the Sossusvlei area. We will walk into the Dooivlei and meet "BIG DADDY". After walking back from the Dooivlei, we will go on to Sossusvlei, before return with the shuttle to the 4x4 stop to our car. Then we will drive back to the Sesriem Gate, and off to the Sesriem Canyon. It is just a small canyon, still nice to see, before we will drive around the Naukluft Mountain, to Garies Restcamp, where we will stop for the day.
Day 5
Garies Rest camp - Rehoboth - Windhoek - Okahandja - Otjiwarongo -
Outjo – Etosha National Park - Okaukuejo
Today we have a big distance to cover, so we can not depart late, we spend most of our time just driving. From Garies Rest camp, we will drive to Rehoboth. Rehoboth is a Baster Community. It is one of the many cultures in Namibia. From here we will travel to Windhoek, but we will only part it in the outside of Windhoek to drive to Okahandja. We will do the town tour the day that we come back and also visit the woodcraft market then. We will move on to Otjiwarongo, from here on to Outjo and then on to Etosha National Park. We need to be in before sunset time, we will only arrive late that afternoon. Where we will book in at the Okaukuejo Rest Camp. You can spend time around the water hole.
Day 6
Okaukuejo - Etosha National Park - Okaukuejo
This day we will spend time in the park looking for animals. Hope that we will see lions, elephants and a lot more. We will stop at the camps in the park. Lunch we will have at Halali.
Day 7
Okaukuejo - Etosha National Park - Otjikoto Lake - Tsumeb -
Ohangi Lodge
We will go out through the park, past the last camp. We will visit the Otjikoto Lake. Here the Germans after the war threw a lot of their machines in and they are still in there, because till today nobody could reach the bottom of the lake. We will go through Tsumeb. Tsumeb is a copper mine and still operational. Then we will go on to Ohange Lodge.
Day 8
Ohange Lodge - Otavi - Otjiwarongo - Okahandja - Windhoek
After breakfast we will say goodbye and off to Windhoek. But before we get there, we will pass Otavi and go through Otjiwarongo to Okahandja. Here we will do a town tour, into the history of the Herero's. And stop at the woodcrafts. Before off to Windhoek. We need to be in time for booking. Flight departs at 18:35pm.
Claudia & Friends
Day 1,
Hosea Kutako International Airport - Windhoek – Arebbush Travel Lodge
Today you will arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport where I will meet you. We will drive the distance into Windhoek (the airport is 40 kilometers outside the city). Windhoek is the capital city of Namibia. We will camp tonight at Arebbush Travel Lodge. Then after refreshing yourself we are off to do a city tour. After the city tour, I show you how to put up your tent. We will sit around the camp fire and learn a bit more of each other.
Day 2
Windhoek – Rehoboth – Mariental - !GarasPark
The distance that we will cover today is a good distance. So after breakfast, we will break down the camp and start driving south. Past Rehoboth,the capital city of the Baster Community that we have in Namibia. Unfortunely it is Sunday and the museum, that is rich with their history is closed today, so we will only stop in this town for fuel. Off to Mariental, just before Mariental, we will turn off to the Hardap Dam, the biggest man made dam in Namibia. We will have lunch around here. Then we drive to Keetmanshoop, here we will also turn off before reaching Keetmanshoop to !GarasPark where we will stay tonight. We will watch the sun go down in a Quiver Tree “Forest”.
Day 3
!GarasPark – Keetmanshoop – Fish River Canyon – Klein-Aus
After breakfast and the break down of camp, we are off. We will have to stop in Keetmanshoop for fuel. Then we are off to the Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world. From here we drive a bit of the same road back to the tar road to Aus. When done with putting camp up for the two nights, we will go to the Garub look out, where we will sit and hope to see the wild horses of the Namib…….
Day 4
Klein-Aus – Luderitz - Kolmanskop – Luderitz – Dias Point – Klein-Aus
Today we will drive down to Luderitz, first, so that we can get our permit to visit Kolmanskop, the Ghost Town. Here the first diamonds were found. After the tour, we will drive back towards the town. After a historical tour of the town, you have a bit of time to explore the waterfront, while I am doing shopping for the next few days. Before driving back to Klein-Aus. If we didn’t the horses yesterday we will stop again there, maybe we will be lucky today.
Day 5
Klein-Aus – Helmeringhausen – Duwiseb Castle – Sesriem Campsite
Today will be a very long day of driving, so we need to start as early as possible. We need to cover a big distance. On our way we will pass Helmeringhausen to Duwiseb Castle. Here we will spend a bit of time to get in touch with what happened in the past. Then off to Sesriem Campsite, where we will spend the next two nights.
Day 6
Sesriem Gate – Dune 45 – 4X4 – Dooievlei – Sossusvlei – 4X4 – Sesriem Canyon – Sesriem Campsite
Today is one of those very very early days that you have to start, to be in the dunes before it is too hot. From here we will drive to Dune 45. It is most likely to be the most famous dune in Namibia; even if it is not the highest dune. After climbing the dune, for the ones that feel up to it, we move down to the 4x4 stop area. From here we will go on a shuttle into the Sossusvlei area. We will walk into the Dooivlei and meet "BIG DADDY". After walking back from the Dooivlei, we will go on to Sossusvlei, before return with the shuttle to the 4x4 stop to our car. Then we will drive back to the Sesriem Gate, and off to the Sesriem Canyon. It is just a small canyon, still nice to see, before we go back to camp. This day is for you to spend in the dunes, please remember to put your sun block on today.
Day 7
Sesriem Campsite – Solitar – Walvis Bay – Swakopmund Municipality Bungalows
After yesterdays day of exercise, we start at sunrise. We will move down to Solitaire, for a cup of coffee and Apple Pie, the most famous pie in the desert. When everybody is done we take the road down to Walvis Bay. Here we will spend a bit of time before going to Swakopmund. We will stay for the next two nights in the Municipality Bungalows. Those of you who would like to explore the night life of Swakopmund feel free, after dinner.
Day 8
Swakopmund
Today day you can have a bit of a lay in. We will do a city tour of Swakopmund before we will have a brunch (a late breakfast and early lunch). Then you are more then welcome to explore the town on your own or relax on the beach.
Day 9
Swakopmund – Wlotskasbaken - Henties Bay – Cape Cross – Uis – Gastehaus Lizenstein
After yesterdays relaxing day, we start slowly to get going again. We will drive past Wlotskasbaken, stop at the lichen fields to Henties Bay. Before of to Cape Cross. After spending time with the largest true seal colony on the western coast we move back, in the direction of Henties Bay to turn of to Uis, where we will stay the next two nights. Uis is a very small town.
Day 10
Uis – Spitzkoppe – Uis - Gastehaus Lizenstein
Today we will drive to Spitzkoppe and spend the whole day there. Climbing and explore the Spitzkoppe. Late afternoon drive back to Uis. Tonight we will have dinner at the Guest house.
Day 11
Uis – Twyfelfontein – Burn Mountain – Organ Pipes – Camp Xaragu
The distance that we travel today is not so long, but we still need to start at a reasonable time, so that it does not start to be hot when we do the Twyfelfontein rock engravings. Then we are off to the Burn Mountain. From here to Organ Pipes. We will spend the night at Camp Xaragu.
Day 12
Camp Xaragu – Prettified Forest – Khorixas – Oase Guest House
From Camp Xaragu we drive to the Petrified Forest, where you will see trees that is forgotten in time that came a long way down. From here we will drive to Khorixas, where we will stop for fuel, before moving on to Kamajab area. Just before we go on the road to Kamajab, we will do a bit of a detour. We will go down to the Rock Finger and Ugab-Terrace, before getting on the road back to Kamajab. We will visit the Himba Village tomorrow. We will put camp up and just relax.
Day 13
Oase Guest House – Outjo – Etosha National Park - Halali
At 8 o’clock we will visit the Himba Village with Jakaronga Himba Safaris. We will break up camp before going to the Village and be done also with breakfast. After the visit we are off to Outjo, the last stop before Etosha National Park. Here you have time to drink a cup of coffee or walk around while I do our shopping for the next few days. Then we move off to Etosha National Park. We will stay at Halali Camp in the Park for the first night. All depends on time, but if we are in the park early we will drive around a bit and try to see some animals.
Day 14
Etosha National Park - Okaukuejo
This day we will spend time in the park looking for animals. Hope that we will see lions, elephants and a lot more. We will stop at the camps in the park while driving around. Tonight we will stay at Okaukuejo.
Day 15
Etosha National Park – Outjo – Otjiwarongo – Waterberg Campsite
We will drive back to Outjo the same way we came in the first day to Etosha National Park. From here we will travel down to Otjiwarongo then off to Waterberg. We will have to stop in Otjiwarongo for fuel, but also for shopping (fuel for the bodies). Here you are welcome to walk around and explore the wonderful plant and animal life on and around Waterberg after we put up camp.
Day 16
Waterberg - Okahandja – Windhoek - Arebbush Travel Lodge
We will have an early hike before we will break down the camp to go back to Windhoek. In Okahandja we will do a town tour (all depends on time), into the history of the Herero's, and stop at the woodcrafts before we set off to Windhoek. Here you have the afternoon to walk around in Windhoek if you feel like it. Just remember it is Saturday so most of the shops will be closed, so if you want to buy things do it when we are at shops. All depends on time again.
Day 17
Windhoek – Airport
After breakfast and breaking down camp, we start to make our way back to the airport.
Depart on flight BA 6274 at 1400.
Dunes
Day 1
Hosea Kutako International Airport – Dorabis – Uhlenhorst – Hoachanas - Kalahari Anib Lodge (290 km, 3 hours)
Arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport. The airport is situated 35 kilometer outside Windhoek. We need to depart as soon as possible to our first nights accommodation that is still a 3 hour drive on gravel roads. We will arrive late at our campsite the first night.
Dinner
Day 2
Kalahari Anib Lodge - Intu Africa – Mariental – Maltahohe – Little Sossus Lodge (432 km, 5 hours)
After breakfast, we depart to Intu Africa, so that you can do the Bushman (San people) walk, before we depart to Sossusvlei area. Here we will stay for the next 2 nights at Little Sossus Lodge. We are 23km from the Sesriem Gate.
Day 3
Accommodation - Sesriem Gate – Dune 45 – 4X4 – Dooievlei – Sossusvlei – 4X4 – Sesriem Canyon – Little Sossus Lodge (300 km, 7 hours)
Today is one of those very very early days that you have to start, so that we can be in the dunes before it is too hot. From the Sesriem Gate, we will drive to Dune 45. It is most likely to be the most famous dune in Namibia; even if it is not the highest dune. Why can we say so, I will explain when we get to the dune. After climbing the dune, for the ones that feel up to it, breakfast will wait for you. We move down to the 4x4-stop area. We will walk in to Dooivlei and meet "BIG DADDY.” After walking back from the Dooivlei, we will go on to Sossusvlei, before return. Then we will drive back to the Sesriem Gate. We will visit Sesriem Canyon. It is just a small canyon, still nice to see, before we go back to camp. This day is for you to spend in the dunes, please remember to put your sun block and hats on today.
Day 4
Accommodation – Solitar – Walvis Bay – Swakopmund – Long Beach (430 km, 5 hours)
After yesterday's exercise, we start at sunrise or how you feel, all depends on you. The earlier we get away the more time you will have around Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. We will move down to Solitaire, for a cup of coffee and Apple Pie, the most famous pie in the desert. When everybody is done, we take the road down to Walvis Bay. Here we will spend a bit of time, before going to Swakopmund. We will stay at Long Beach; it is between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Those of you who would like to explore the nightlife of Swakopmund feel free, after dinner. We will try to do a town tour before the evening.
Day 5
Swakopmund – Usakos (144 km, 1 ½ hours)
Today day you can have a bit of a lay in. After breakfast you are welcome to explore the town, do some of the activities on your own, or relax on the beach. We will depart late afternoon, around 1500 to our next accommodation, Usakos camp site, where we will stay over to make the next drive to Windhoek shorter. Tonight you are invited by my parents to come and enjoy dinner at our house. (Mom’s cooking, by this time you will have had enough of my cooking skills)
Day 6
Usakos – Karibib – Okahandja – Windhoek – Cardboard Box (250 km, 2 1/4 hours)
After breakfast will make our way to Windhoek. The earlier we can leave the more time you have to spend in Windhoek, before most shops close. Therefore, it all depends on you. In the afternoon, we will do a city tour. We will spend the night at Cardboard Box Backpackers. Here we will have to share a room. After dinner at Joe’s Beer House, you are free to explore the nightlife of the Windhoekers.
Day 7
Windhoek – Hosea Kutako International Airport (40 km, 45 minutes)
After breakfast, you are welcome to enjoy Windhoek, before we have to make our way to the airport.
Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia
Day 1
Your guide will meet you at the International Airport. Windhoek lies 40 kilometers from the Airport. From here, you will first go to your guesthouse. After settling in you will go out on a city tour of Windhoek: The Christuskerk, Alte Feste, Tintenpalast, any many more.
Day 02
After breakfast we will make our way in a southeast direction to the Kalahari Desert. Here you will be able to explore the first desert of Namibia.
Day 03
After breakfast we will start to make our way to the Namib Naukluft Park, where we will find the second desert in Namibia, the Namib Desert.
Day 04
Today we have a very early start, to go into the dunes. Here you will have the opportunity to experience the difference between the Kalahari and the Namib Desert. After you have spent the day in Sossusvlei you will also visit Sesriem Canyon, it is small, but worth a visit.
Day 05
After yesterday's experience in the dunes, you will start at an easy pace towards to the coast, Swakopmund. However, before reaching Swakopmund we will stop at Solitaire for coffee and apple pie from Moose.
Day 06
Today you are free to explore the town of Swakopmund on your own. There are many activities that you are welcome to do, like a Marine Cruise, quad bikes, a trip in to the Moon landscape and much more. Alternatively, just enjoy “little Germany” in Namibia.
Day 07
After a good breakfast, we will make our way along the Atlantic Ocean north to Cape Cross, where you have the time to see one of the Cape Fure Seal colonies. From here on, we will make our way to Twyfelfontein, where a you can see some of the rock engravings from the Bushman’s that where living there. There is also Burn Mountain and Organ Pipes to see.
Day 08
After breakfast, we will make our way to Kamanjab area where we will visit a Himba Village later in the day. On our way, we will stop at the Petrified Forest, long forgotten trees from the copper fields of Zambia.
Day 09
Today we will make the last part to Etosha National Park. Here we hope to see elephants, lions and much more.
Day 10
We will spend the day in the park.
Day 11
Tsumeb-Grootfontein-Rundu, on our way to Botswana. We will stop at the Otjikoto Lake where a lot of the war machines lie, before moving to the Hoba Meteorite, largest in the world.
Day 12
From Rundu, through the Caprivi towards the Botswana boarder. We will stop first at the Popa Falls before crossing over to Botswana to visit the Okavango Delta.
Day 13
Today you have the opportunity to go out on a boat trip on the Okavango Delta. We will spend the whole day around here.
Day 14
We will go back into Namibia to the Kwando River for the next two nights. Here you are welcome to take part in same of the activities that they offer. Go for a visit to one of the village or much more.
Day 15
Activity options available.
Day 16
We will make our way back to the main road to Katima Mulilo and then over the Ngoma bridge to the Chobe National Park for the next two days.
Day 17
Chobe National Park, here you have the opportunity to see buffalo, hippo's, elephants and many more animals...
Day 18
Today, we will leave the Chobe National Park behind us and will go over the Zambezi River with the ferry into Zambia, for the Victoria Falls. We will stay near Livingstone. The first night we will go out to one of the local restaurants for dinner.
Day 19
Here you can do bungee jumping (for the ones who always wanted to do this in their life) or just enjoy the wonder of the Vic Falls.
Day 20
We will leave the Vic Falls – Zambia behind us, back into Botswana, make our way to the Nata Pans.
Day 21
In the morning, you will visit the Makgadikgadi saltpans, before making our way to Maun, the bottom of the Okavango Delta.
Day 22
Today you can spend time in the Okavango Delta on a Mokoro, the locals transport on the Delta.
Day 23
We will start early so that we can make our way back to Namibia; we will stay near Gobabis tonight.
Day 24
Today we take the last shift to Windhoek. In the afternoon, you are welcome to go into the city and do your last minute shopping or there is still tomorrow morning before your flight back home. Tonight we almost say goodbye to each other.
Day 25
We need to be at the airport 2 hours before your plane leaves.
Koakoveld, Caprivi, Vic Falls, Botswana
Day 1
Hosea Kutako International Airport - Windhoek – Okahandja – Karibib - Usakos
We will drive from the airport to Usakos, a very small town. The distance that we have to travel in the next days is quite long.
Day 2
Usakos – Uis – Camp Xaragus
After breakfast and the breakdown of the camp we will drive along the Erongo Mountain to Uis, where we will continue to Camp Xaragus. Today is basic driving to get to our camps, but around the Erongo Mountain the landscape is beautiful to see.
Day 3
Camp Xaragus - Palmwag
We will drive through beautiful landscape and hope to see the giraffe or even the desert elephants. We need to go over the Red Line, to reach Palmwag. At Palmwag, you will go on a drive hoping to see the Desert Elephants that are well known to this area.
Day 4
Palmwag – Kamanjab - Opuwo
After breakfast and the break down of the camp, we will drive over Grootberg Pass past Kamanjab to Opuwo.
Day 5
Opuwo – Epupa
After breakfast and breaking up the camp we will drive to Epupa. When we will arrive we will put up camp and relax.
Day 6
Epupa
In the morning we will visit the Epupa Falls and relax the whole day around in this area. In the afternoon you can visit a Himba Kraal. Those of you who have a bit of adventure in you, are welcome to try some of the activities like white river rafting.
Day 7
Epupa – Opuwo – Ruacana
We will have an early start. We will drive back to Opuwo and then to Ruacana. We will only arrive late in the afternoon.
Day 8
Ruacana – Oshakati - Namutoni
We will break down camp and then we will visit the Ruacana Falls, before we will depart to Oshakati to Etosha National Park. On our way we will stop at the Ombalantu Baobab Tree Heritage Centre. We will see a lot of craft markets on our way. We will stay at Namutoni.
Day 9
Etosha National Park
Today we will spend the whole day driving around in the park hoping to see a lot of animals.
Day 10
Namutoni – Ombili Foundation – Tsumeb
After the break down of the camp we will make our way to the Ombili Foundation. At Ombili, it will be the closest that we will get to Bushman’s, the first inhabitants of Namibia. We will visit the Otjikoto Lake near Tsumeb with its history that is still in it form the World War. It all depends on what time we arrive in Tsumeb, then you can also visit the Open Air Museum.
Day 11
Tsumeb – Grootfontein - Rundu
After breakfast and breaking down of camp we will make our way to Grootfontein, but before we reach Grootfontein, we will stop at Hoba Meteorite. We need to be in time for our sun cruise on the river near Rundu.
Day 12
Rundu – Bagani – Mahango Game Park
From here we move to Bagani. Tonight we will stay in the Mahango Game Park. Before we get to our camp site, we will visit Mission Andara Water Mill. We will visit also the Poppa Falls. We hope to see a lot of game on our way.
Day 13
Mahango Game Park – Katima Mulilo
From Mahango Game Park we will drive to Katima Mulilo. On our way we will see a lot of people with their woodcrafts.
Day 14
Katima Mulilo - Kasane
This morning we cross the border into Botswana, your guides will assist with any formalities. Our first stop is in Kasane, and we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River. We are served lunch before the afternoon activities begin. We are transported in open safari vehicles to enjoy our game viewing and guided river cruise. Just remember in Botswana we use Pulas, the currency of Botswana.
Day 15
Kasane – Victoria Falls – Kasane
Today we will visit one of The Wonders of the world, Victoria Falls. We will go into Zimbabwe for the day, but we will sleep at Kasane. In Zimbabwe we make use of American Dollars.
Day 16
Kasane - Maun
Today we make our way to Maun area in Botswana. After a day of long travel we set up camp outside the town of Maun.
Day 17
Maun - Windhoek
We will arrive only late afternoon in Windhoek.
Day 18
Windhoek
After breakfast we get ready to go to the airport.
Taste of Namibia
DAYS 1:WINDHOEK
On your arrival in Namibia, Windhoek, you will have a guide that meets you at the airport. After arriving at you accommodation, you can rest and in the afternoon you will have a city tour.
DAYS 2 – 3: SESRIEM AND SOSSUSVLEI
Leaving Windhoek we travel south to Solitaire, where we spend two nights. Sossusvlei boasts some of the world’s highest and most picturesque dunes, some of which tower as much as 200 metres above the valley floor. It’s likely that this sand originated in the Kalahari some two to five million years ago. The amount of life found in these harsh conditions is surprising and gemsbok, ostriches and springbok roaming over the sand are a common sight. Climbing the dunes is energetic work, but definitely worth the view.
DAYS 4 – 5: SWAKOPMUND
We travel through the dramatic Kuiseb Canyon to Walvis Bay. Apart from being a busy and important port, the lagoon at Walvis Bay attracts a range of coastal water birds including flamingos and pelicans. Swakopmund, situated on the coast is a place with colonial charm, resembling a small Bavarian village situated between the desert and the sea. The source of the town’s continental atmosphere is the graceful art nouveau buildings dating back to the turn of the century. There are a number of optional activities* on offer including quad biking, dolphin and seal viewing boat trips, hot air ballooning or flights over the desert.
DAY 6: TWYFELFONTEIN
The seal colony at Cape Cross is home to a multitude of Cape Fur seals, who flourish in the cold waters of the Benguela Current. The drive along the coast presents a strange landscape of fog and sea mist, salt roads and barren emptiness. Leaving the coast, we head east to Spitzkoppe, popularly known as the Matterhorn of Namibia, which rises abruptly from the arid Namib plain. The area is rich in rock engravings and paintings. We spend some time exploring these and other geological curiosities including Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes. The area is also home to the Welwitschia, one of the oldest plants in the world.
DAY 7: KAMANJAB
Heading north, the view of Damaraland is a colourful combination of volcanic landscape and savannah. We overnight at Kamanjab, where we will vist this unforgenten group Himbas.
DAYS 8 – 10: ETOSHA
Established in 1907, Etosha is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, with terrain ranging from dense bush to open plains. The large salt pan, from which the park takes its name, is an enormous area: dry and dusty in summer but often a shallow lake filled with water and a multitude of birds in the wet season. Game viewing in Etosha is an unforgettable experience, the sheer number and variety is astounding. The wide open spaces and abundant wildlife make a visit to this park an unforgettable experience.
DAY 11: WINDHOEK
After a leisurely breakfast, we start the return drive to the bustling, cosmopolitan city of Windhoek with its stately historic buildings and fusion of cultures.
DAY 12: WINDHOEK
After breakfast you have the time to wonder around in Windhoek till, your guide needs to take you to the airport.
Dassie Tour - Walking in Namibia
Day 1:
Departure from your country to arrive the next day at Hosea Kutako International Airport
Day 2:
Hosea Kutako International Airport – Windhoek – Daan Viljoen Game Park
(70 km, driving on tar roads; 9km, Rooibos trail – 3 hours hiking)
You will arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport, in the morning, where your guide will meet you. The airport is almost 40 kilometers outside Windhoek, so a short drive into the capital city of Namibia, Windhoek.
The City of Windhoek lies more or less on top of the central highland which is formed by the Khomas Hochland, the Eros and the Auas Mountains. It lies in the middle of Namibia at the geographical position of about 22’35 south and 17’05 West and at an average altitude of about 1650 meters above see level.
A short city tour will be done of Windhoek’s most important buildings: Christus Kirche-The German Lutheran Church; Tintenpalast; Alte Feste; Reiter Standbild. This will be a 2 hour city tour before we take the road to Daan Viljoen, where we will have lunch ready for you.
In the afternoon we will do a short hike in the park, just to get the body working.
Your first dinner under the stars of Africa and time to get to know each other.
Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Daan Viljoen Game Park
Day 3:
Daan Viljoen Game Park – Windhoek – Rehoboth – Bullspoort – Naukluft Park
(295 km, 3-4 hours driving on tar and gravel roads)
After a slow start at the Daan Viljoen Game Park – stretch the legs and fresh air, we have to take the road towards Naukluft Mountain via Rehoboth via Bullspoort. If everything goes well we will be at our campsite in the Naukluft Park around early afternoon.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Namib Naukluft Mountain
Day 4:
Naukluft Park – Naukluft Mountain – Waterkloof Trail
(17 km hiking in the Naukluft Mountain)
Waterkloof trail is a circular trail situated in the Naukluft Park. It takes about 6 to 7 hours to complete the 17-kilometer trail. It starts and ends at the office/campsite. You start by walking upstream in the Naukluft River through some beautiful gorges, often filled with rock pools after the rains. You have great scenery and the chance of seeing animals….Klipspringer as well as mountain zebra and a variety of birdlife and flora can be seen on this hike. Walking in general is easier than that of the Olive Trail. However, the distance and a steep climb or two make this one more difficult.
The ones that would like to explore a bit on there own in the afternoon after getting back at camp are welcome or you can relax while the guides prepare the dinner.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Namib Naukluft Mountain
Day 5:
Naukluft Mountain – Camp in area of Sesriem – Sesriem Canyon
(174km, 2-3 hours of driving on gravel roads; 4 km hike in the canyon)
After we put camp up at our camping site near Sesriem area, we will drive to the Sesriem Canyon for a walk in it, towards the desert.
Sesriem Canyon:
At the entrance to Sossusvlei is Sesriem Canyon, where centuries of erosion have incised a narrow gorge about 1km in length. At the foot of the gorge, which plunges down for 30m to 40m, are deep pools of water, which become replenished after good rains. Sesriem derives its name from the time when early pioneers tied six lengths of rawhide together to draw water from these pools.
We will hike down the river for 4 km, just to keep the body working, so that tomorrow is not so hard.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping in area of Sesriem
Day 6:
Camp in Sesriem Area - Sesriem – Dune 45 – Sossusvlei – Camp in Sesriem Area
Very early morning departure to Sossusvlei, the last 5 km we drive in 4x4 vehicles. We will start with Big Daddy. Then on to Sossusvlei after Dooie Vlei.
This is a dune wonderland, with towering dunes up to 300m high surrounding a huge, dried-up pan. Dunes extend as far as the eye can see and their rich tints vary from pale apricot to vivid reds and oranges. During a good rainy season, the Tsauchab River flows into the pan, this creates a heaven for water birds. Even during the dry season, oryx, springbok and ostriches can be seen feeding off the sparse vegetation along the watercourse.
You will have the opportunity to climb the most well known dune, Dune 45, in the afternoon. We will spend the day climbing dunes and explore the desert all around us.
Brunch, Dinner
Camping in Sesriem Area
Day 7:
Camp in Sesriem Area – Solitaire – Namib Naukluft Park – Welwitchia Plains
(450 km, 6-7 hours of driving on gravel road)
We will start to make our way towards Swakopmund, with a welcome stop at Solitaire for Apple Pie, by Moase. En-route we drive through the heart of the Namib Desert. Experience the majesty and mystique of Namibia’s ‘Living Desert’, the Namib. Here, you will find bountiful sunshine, endless open spaces, and scenic beauty. Rust-red dunes are covered with golden long-stemmed grasses, and the myriad animals, birds and insects the desert supports provide endless fascination and wonder. Just before closing of today we will make a visit to the Welwitchia Mirabilis.
Welwitchia Mirabilis is a true Namib endemic and extends its range from the Kuiseb River into Namibia in Angola. There are some healthy populations on the plain outside Swakopmund, near the Swakop River.
The plants grows in washes and on gravel plains. It is protected under the Forest Ordinance. Because of its unusual taxonomic status, there are no similar-looking plants. The closest relative is a shrub of the American and Middle Eastern Deserts, Ephedra, which looks very different. The age of these plants has been another topic of great interest in the scientific world. Carbon-dating of medium-sized plants established ages of approximately 400 years, so the largest plants could quite plausible be a thousand years old.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Namib Naukluft Park (Wild Camp)
Day 8:
Welwitchia Plains – Goanikontes Oasis – Swakopmund
(100km, 1hour driving; 12 km hike)
After break down of camp, we will drive a bit out of the river bed until there is 12 kilometers left for you to reach Goanikontes Oasis. Lunch will wait on you, before we drive via the tar road into Swakopmund. It is a beautiful landscape that you will walk on. If you fast glance on it, it looks if there is nothing there, but the moment you start to walk you can expect to see all these small plants and animals. While driving into Swakopmund you will be told about the history of the town and what to see on the way.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner at restaurant
Swakopmund fixed accommodation
Day 9:
Swakopmund
Today is at own leisure in Swakopmund. There are many activities on offer, which you can book. E.g. flights over the Skeleton Coast/Sossusvlei etc, quad biking in the dune, intensive desert tour and many more. (All at own cost.) Remember to book in advance, the guide will tell you a bit more a few days before.
Scenic Flight: Skeleton Coast
Departing from Swakopmund, we head straight to fly over the Brandberg, Twyfelfontein and Damaraland. The flight continues along the Ugab riverbed in search for desert elephant, rhinos, giraffes and mountain zebras. Turning southbound, we fly along the Skeleton Coast, which is littered with whalebones and rust-eaten hulls of wrecked ships. The flight continues past Cape Cross seal reserve. Over 200 000 seals are to be found here. Passing Henties Bay and the salt works north of Swakopmund we fly back to Swakopmund.
Flight duration approximately 2-3 hours
Boat cruise in Walvis Bay:
08h30 – A 4 ½ hour-long boat cruise in the lagoon of Walvis Bay will put you into another world. Some pelicans and flamingos might be spotted – dolphins and seals swim along the boat, and there is the possibility of some seals jumping into the boat to be fed.
12h00 – Lunch with snacks, oysters and champagne will be served in the lagoon
Breakfast, Dinner at restaurant
Swakopmund fixed accommodation
Day 10:
Swakopmund – Henties Bay – Cape Cross – Henties Bay – Usakos
(350 km, 4-5 hours driving)
You had a day at leisure in Swakopmund, hope you enjoyed it. We depart to the northern side of Namibia all along the coast to visit the seals at Cape Cross.
Cape Cross:
The largest and best known of the 23 breeding colonies of Cape fur seals along the coast of South Africa and Namibia is the Cape Cross Seal Reserve north of Swakopmund. During the November/December breeding season, as many as 200 000 seals gather at Cape Cross. It was here that the Portuguese navigator, Diego Cao, erected a stone cross in 1486. Also at Cape Cross is a small lichen reserve where a relatively large variety of these interesting and slow-growing organisms is protected.
From Cape Cross, we will drive to a small village called Usakos, for the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Usakos Camp Site
Day 11:
Usakos – Spitzkoppe – Uis – Dara-! Nawa Conservancy
(320 km, 3-4 hours driving must on gravel road; 8km climbing)
Early morning we will depart from Usakos, to reach the Spitzkoppe just at sunrise. We will spend the morning here climbing around. After lunch we will make our way to Dara-! Nawa via Uis. Here we will have a wild camp.
Spitzkoppe: The Gross Spitzkoppe together with the Pontok Mountains and the Klein Spitzkoppe represent a landmark in Namibia with a height of 1728 m.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping wild
Day 12:
Dara-! Nawa Conservancy – Burn Mountain – Oral Pipes – Twyfelfontein – Aba-Huaba
(22km hiking, auto moves 45 km)
After breakfast and packing the vehicle, we will walk in Damaraland, towards the Burn Mountain.
Burn Mountain was of course never in flames, but in its formation, high temperatures played an important role. Huge amounts of basaltic magma were pushed into an adjacent layer of shale of the Ecca-Group because of the intensive Post-Karoo Volcanism in Damaraland about 125 million years ago.
If luck is on our side we can maybe see the Desert Elephant in a distance. From there on we visit the Valley of the Oral Pipes that is hidden in a small river bed.
In the Valley of Organ Pipes you can find a dolerite sill formed by magma tic events which affected large part of Damaraland about 125 million years ago. Although dolerites occur in many parts of the country, this outcrop shows something special to the visitor. The molten magma penetrated into the surrounding rock parallel to the rock layers, thus the dolerite is solidified into a group of homogeneously orientated columns which results in polygonal cross-sections, the “organ pipes”.
Then on to camp that will be in the Aba-Huaba Camp Site, the last bit we will walk next to the road.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Aba-Huaba Camp Site
Day 13:
Aba-Huaba Camp – Twyfelfontein – Dara-! Nawa Conservancy
(15 km hike; auto moves 25km)
Early morning we pack up camp, have breakfast and start to walk to Twyfelfontein.
Twyfelfontein is world renowned for its beautiful rock engravings. The rocks tend to be eclipsed by the engravings and artwork, but they also give evidence of fascination events. It should not be overlooked that the engravings of Twyfelfontein were only made because of the extremely smooth and flat rock surface, which are of course of geological origin.
From here we will walk over a hill into the river where later in the day we will meet the auto again for the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping wild
Day 14:
Wild Camp - Xaragus
(15 km hike; auto moves 20 km)
We will continue trekking in the Damaraland, Koakoveld towards camp Xaragus. All over hills, into rivers on our way looking for all the things that we would have missed by driving passed this beautiful nature.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Xaragus
Day 15:
Xaragus – Petrified Forest – Khorixas – Kamanjab
(230 km, 2-3 hours driving on gravel road; 1 hour walk in Petrified Forest)
From Camp Xaragu we will drive again. Our first stop will be at the Petrified Forest.
The Petrified Forest, which was discovered in the 1940s, consists of fossil tree-trunks, which were imbedded into 270 million year-old sediments of the Ecca Group and which are visible on the surface today. These petrified plants show evidence of vast woodlands, which covered this part of Namibia a long time ago. The interested visitor might wonder whether the trees actually grew here at this arid site where they are now petrified. Geologists, however, have proved that the trees were transported by flowing water before they were deposited. Evidence for this is the lack of petrified anchoring roots. Further proof is that the trunks are lying parallel to each other.
From here we will make our way to Kamanjab, so that we can visit a Himba Village in the afternoon.
Himba Visit
Situated about 20 km outside of town, a guided tour around the village will not only give you an in depth insight into the life and ways of the last traditional tribe in Namibia, the Ova-Himba, but an amazing photographic opportunity as well.
You will experience the milking ceremony, the smoke bath, be informed on the beliefs around the holy fire, ancestors, and herbal medicine.
You will also learn about the jewelry and hairstyles to imitate the status of each tribe member and their close relationship with nature, their cattle and children.
Jaco, is an Afrikaans speaking white male who was adopted into the Himba Culture by an old chief, Tjsikume Bhahona, who lives in the mountains at Ongkongo near Opuwo. He has lived with his Himba family and within the Himba Culture now for several years and speaks the language fluently.
Jaco decided to return to the farm just outside of Kamanjab where he still had herds of Nguni Cattle, goats and some sheep. Chief Tjsikume later asked Jaco if some of his people can come live on the farm to help him look after his goats and cattle. Part of the family then moved to the farm and built a traditional village to stay true to their culture.
Since then Jaco has adopted 28 children from poor and alcoholic families, unable to provide for these children and also of mothers that died due to birth complications. The income generated from these excursions, helps to sustain the tribe from day to day, buying food and supplies, medicine (if necessary), blankets and taking care of the 28 orphan children. He currently sends 5 of these children to the Kamanjab Combined School and the village is supporting their school and hostel fees.
Please take note that the orphan village is not for show nor a human zoo, you will be allowed inside these amazing peoples’ home and have a cultural exchange. Please respect their lives and ways as they would respect yours and in this way help preserve their culture, traditions, and day-to-day existence.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Kamanjab
Day 16:
Kamanjab – Outjo - Etosha National Park
If it happened that we could not visit the Himba Village yesterday afternoon (because just a certain amount of people is allowed to visit the village) then we still have the opportunity to do this in the morning.
From here the road will take us via Outjo to the Etosha National Park. But first we have to stop in Outjo to get fresh supplies for the days in Etosha National Park. We will stay inside the park, so that we have the opportunity to see the animals at the waterhole in the evenings.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Etosha National Park
Day 17, 18:
Etosha National Park
We will do an early game drive into the park, come back for breakfast and go out again, till around lunch time. Be back in camp till later the afternoon and go out on another game drive. Hope to see a lot of animals during our drives.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Etosha National Park
Day 19:
Etosha National Park – Outjo – Otjiwarongo – Okahandja - Windhoek
After a good breakfast, we will make our way back to the capital city, Windhoek. Before reaching it, we will stop at Okahandja at the woodcraft market. You are welcome to spend the rest of the day walking around in Windhoek.
Breakfast, Dinner at restaurant
Fixed accommodation
Day 20:
Windhoek - Hosea Kutako International Airport
Together we will have a late morning breakfast. Then you have time to spend in the city at the shops that is open on Sundays. Those of you who would like lunch it will be on your own. Then we will meet again so that we can depart in time for the airport.
Breakfast
Day 21:
Arrival back at your country
EXPLORING NAMIBIA
Day 1:
Windhoek
Arrival at the International Airport where you guide will meet you. Depart to your accommodation. Relax. In the afternoon you will do a city tour.
Overnight: in Windhoek
Dinner
Day 2:
Windhoek – Kalahari Desert
Leaving Windhoek, travel into the largest sand mass on earth, the Kalahari Desert. With its deep red sand dunes and endless grass plains interspersed with Acacia’s and shrubs, its is the only form of survival for a vast amount of specially adapted wildlife. Experience the fauna and flora that has survived this desert environment for thousands of years.
Overnight: in the Kalahari
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3:
Kalahari – Fish River Canyon
Travel south through expansive rocky plains, visiting the unique Quiver Tree Forest at !Garaspark. Nestled amongst huge dolerite boulders, some stacked in such a mysterious way that it seems impossible that they were formed by natural forces. On arrival at the lodge enjoy a walk. Finish the day off with a sundowner drink as the sun sets.
Overnight: Gondwana Collection
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4:
Fish River Canyon – Luderitz
This morning start on the edge of the Fish River Canyon, where you will gaze 550 metres into this magnificent geological phenomenon. The second largest of its kind on earth. Travel down the Great Escarpment and into the plains of the Namib Desert and shifting dunes of the Prohibited Diamond Area. We will round the day off with a tour through Luderitz.
Overnight: in Luderitz
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5:
Luderitz - Southern Namib Desert
Visit the ghost town of Kolmanskop. Opulent and decadent during the diamond rush days of the early 1900’s, it now stands barren to the harsh wind and heat of the unforgiving desert.
After, you will travel north to your lodge situated near Sesriem area, where tomorrow you will see some of the highest sand dunes on earth.
Overnight: in Sesriem area
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6:
Southern Namib Desert
An early start, to catch the first rays of sunrise over the spectacular Sossusvlei, where the mostly dry Tsauchab River ends abruptly amongst majestic dunes. Climb to the top of one of these dunes and admire the desert landscape. After, visit Sesriem Canyon, a life sustaining natural phenomenon in the heart of the Namib Desert.
Overnight: in Sesriem area
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7:
Southern Namib Desert – Swakopmund
After breakfast, you will travel through the Gaub and Kuiseb Canyons, before arriving in the quaint coastal town of Swakopmund, where you will stay for two nights. In the afternoon you will have a town tour of Swakopmund.
Overnight: in Swakopmund
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8:
Swakopmund
This idyllic town is the perfect location for walking tours, shopping, relaxing at a quaint coffee shop or on one of the sandy beaches. There is also a wide variety of activities on offer, ranging from dolphin cruises, desert tours, scenic flights, paragliding and quad biking, which can all be booked and paid for locally.
Overnight: in Swakopmund
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9:
Swakopmund – Damaraland
Heading further north, you will travel along vast lichen fields to Cape Cross, a fur seal reserve where at times over 80 000 animals frolic in the waves of the Atlantic! Pass via the Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain (2579m), into Damaraland, one of the least populated and geologically diverse areas in Africa. This harsh, rocky environment is home to the rare Desert Elephant, Black Rhino and free-roaming antelope species.
Overnight: Twyfelfontein Lodge or similar
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10:
Damaraland – Himba Village
Visit Twyfelfontein, a heritage site where bushman communities engraved and painted over 2500 pictures some 6000 years ago! You will also visit the Burn Mountain, Oral Pipes and the Petrified Forest – some of the oldest landmasses on earth. Later, proceed on to the accommodation close to a Himba Village.
Overnight: Kamanjab area
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11:
Himba Village – Etosha National Park
After breakfast, you will visit a Himba Village. A guided tour around the village will be done, not only giving you an in depth insight into the life and ways of the last traditional tribe in Namibia, the Ova-Himba, but an amazing photographic opportunity as well.
From here on you will make your way to Etosha National Park.
Overnight: outside the Etosha National Park
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12:
Etosha National Park
The day is devoted purely to the abundant wildlife found in the Etosha National Park. The park is home to four of the ‘Big 5’ – Elephant, Lion, Leopard and Rhino – its waterholes supporting a rich diversity of birds and mammals, including rare species such as black-faced Impala, roan, cheetah and Namibia’s smallest antelope, the Damara Dik-Dik.
Overnight: at one of the camps inside the Park
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13:
Etosha National Park – outside
After breakfast you will travel through the park, passing numerous game en route to your next accommodation. Leaving Etosha, head south to Namibia’s mining centre. Visit Lake Otjikoto, the larger of only two natural lakes found in Namibia, before arriving at your accommodation.
Overnight: outside the park
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14:
Outside the park – Windhoek
Continue southwards via the African craft market in Okahandja, then onto Windhoek, where your tour will come to an end.
Overnight: Windhoek
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15:
Depart from Windhoek
Your guide will make sure that you arrive on time at the International Airport for you flight back home.
Breakfast
RELAX TREKKING
DAY 1:
Arrival in Windhoek. Meet and greet by the guide.
Depending on available time: Windhoek city tour (Katutura township + city), some shopping (if necessary).
Dinner and lunch (own account) can be booked in local restaurants with a guide's
advice. Overnight in Windhoek at one of the many B&B places.
DAY 2:
Breakfast. Departure to Southern Namibia via one of passes to the Namib. If time allows visit to Sesriem Canyon.
Warm clothes are advisable for chilly nights.
DAY 3:
Early morning tour to Sossusvlei, Elim Dune, Sesriem Canyon and Dune 45. Afternoon at leisure. Hiking in the area or other optional activities.
Warm clothes are advisable for chilly nights.
Overnight: the same.
DAY 4:
Depart to Swakopmund. Drive via Welwitchia Mirabilis, Oasis Goanikontes and Moon Landscape.
Overnight: in Swakopmund
DAY5:
In the morning do a marine cruise to see the seals. Climbing dunes between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.
Sightseeing tour around Walvis Bay and Swakopmund
There are optional activities offered at the coast: that can be booked with guide's help.
Overnight: the same place
DAY 6:
Depart from Swakopmund to Damaraland. Hiking in Brandberg area.
Overnight: in area. Possible hikes in the area.
DAY 7:
Lodge is doing morning and afternoon hikes from the lodge to either riverbed or closer
to the foot of Brandberg. Morning hike is around 4 hours, afternoon is 6-7 hours. It is not only walking all the time but walk with stops to see birds, possibly smaller animals (desert elephants can be seen by chance).
Another option is to walk to White Lady with local Damara Brandberg guides; it takes around 1 hour to walk to the
painting one way (and 1 hour back). August should not be a problem with temperature but water is a must for all participants. Brandberg guides charge for a walk to White Lady is on own account.
Stay at same place
DAY 8:
Tour to Twyfelfontein, Burnt Mountain, Petrified Forest and Organ Pipes. Climbing at Twyfelfontein, walking to Petrified Forest, down to Organ Pipes in riverbed.
Overnight: at Kamanjab
DAY 9:
In the morning a visit to a Himba Village. Game drives in the park visiting different waterholes.
Overnight: inside the park if accommodation available.
DAY 10:
Spent the day in Etosha National Park....
To see as much as possible animals.
Overnight outside the park
DAY 11:
Departing from Etosha to Bernabe de la Bat Camp of
Waterberg Plateau Park. First a stop at Lake Otjikoto. Hiking up Waterberg in the afternoon
DAY 12:
From Waterberg Park drive to Game farm that is closed to Windhoek. Afternoon do Game drive.
DAY 13:
Back to Windhoek via Okahandja where a group can possibly stop at souvenir markets.
DAY 14:
Today depart back. End of tour
Namibia and the Fish River Canyon
Day 1:
Departure from your country to arrive next day at Hosea Kutako International Airport
Day 2:
Hosea Kutako International Airport – Windhoek
You will arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport, on flight …..., where your guide will meet you. The airport is almost 40 kilometers outside Windhoek, so a short drive into the capital city of Namibia, Windhoek.
The City of Windhoek lies more or less on top of the central highland which is formed by the Khomas Hochland, the Eros and the Auas Mountains. It lies in the middle of Namibia at the geographical position of about 22’35 south and 17’05 west and at an average altitude of about 1650 meters above see level.
A city tour will be done of Windhoek’s most important buildings: Christus Kirche-The German Lutheran Church; Tintenpalast; Alte Feste.
Dinner at resturant
Fix accommodation in Windhoek
Day 3:
Windhoek - !Garaspark – Keetmanshoop – Fish River Canyon Area
After breakfast, pack the auto and start to make our way down further south.
On the road we will stop at !Garaspark. !Garaspark is a quiver tree forest, with Giant Playground.
From here we will make our way to the Fish River Canyon. Have a good night rest before going down the next morning.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping in the Fish River Canyon Area
Day 4, 5, 6, 7, 8:
Fish River Canyon
BEFORE THE HIKE CAN TAKE PLACE A RECENT MEDICAL CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS AND IDEMNITY FORM NEEDS TO BE COMPLETED.
The Karas regione features probably one of the greatest natural wonders in Africa, the Fish River Canyon. It is the second largest canyon in the world, after the Grand Canyon in the United States of America, and certainly the biggest in Africa. The canyon is approximately 2 7kilometers wide at its wideste point, 161 kilometers long and 549 meters deep at places.
In 1989 the Ai-Ais Hot Springs, Fish River Canyon and Huns Mountains, west of the Canyon, were incorporated into one conservarion area of 346 117 hectare.
During an archaeological expedition in 1981, 27 findings were discoverd, 9 of which were from the Middle Stone Age. They discovered 18 more sites from the later Stone Age as the Canyon becomes wider on the bends.
In the beginning of the 19th century the Nama’s and Herero’ had a bit of conflict (war). Although the Germans established peace in 1898, the conflict started again in 1903, but control was taken again by the Germans in 1907, when Ai-Ais was used as a German Base.
In 1962 the Fish River Canyon was declared a natural Monument and 6 years later a Wild Life Reserve.
Due to their predominantly horizontal bedding, rocks of the Nama Group tend to weather and erode in layers, resulting in the flat plains, with major drainage, forming canyons and gorges. The darker part is known as sandstone and was formed about 1800 million years ago. About 1300 million years ago these formations were intensely compressed and folded. At the same time it was heated up to more than 600 C.
The black lines are known as dolerites and have been formed 900 million years ago. There are different layers of rock, but the last few changes were in the last 50 million years.
The trail will be done in the following way:
Early morning go down. Descent 900m to the bottom of the river. Have a rest and then start slowly to make your way on the rocks.
The hardest part of the hike is the is the down the descent and then the bit to Palm Springs. By the end of the 2nd you will be close to the Palm Spring (Sulphure Spring) or just left it.
Most of the hiking is done on the actual riverbed. Thousands of years of erosion has left this terrain littered with large round boulders. It's a rugged and challenging walk so leave plenty of time to deal with obstacles.
Palm Springs is the site of a sulphur spring that gushes out of the earth at a constant temperature of 57 degrees. There are Date palms that grow around the spring which give rise to the place name.
The going gets easier after Palm Springs, but chances are that you'll feel the impact of the previous 2 days. The boulders and obstacles become less obtrusive making room smaller rocks and long stretches of sand. The canyon walls widen and just before you reach the Causeway you'll find the grave of Lieutenant von Trotha, a German officer killed in a skirmish between the Germans and the local Nama people in 1905.The homestretch to Ai-Ais from the Causeway takes about four to five hours. The canyon is much wider and the hiking easy. Awaiting you at Ai-Ais are hot springs where you can relax your tired bones with a cold beer in hand. A fitting ending to an awesome hike.
You will stay over at the place where we get for the day. This whole hike must just be completed in 5 days
Ai-Ais is a Nama word meaning “scalding hot“. The temperature of the water emerging from the spring can reach up to 60 degrees C.
ALL THE MEALS YOU WILL CARRIE WITH YOU FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS AS WELL AS YOUR EQUIPMENT NEEDED.
Camping in on night 8 at Ai-Ais
Day 9:
Ai-Ais – Helmeringhausen
After a good hike in the Fish River Canyon we are back in the car and on the road today. We will travel the same way back to Seeheim as we came. From here take the road to Helmeringhausen via Bethanie.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Helmeringhausen
Day 10:
Helmeringhausen – Duwiseb Castle – Namib Rand Reserve/Tok Tokkie Farmhouse
We can’t leave to late from Helmeringhausen because we needed to be at Namib Rand Reserve around lunch time and we would like to get a visit in to Duwiseb Castle.
The imposing Schloss Duwiseb is a complete surprise to the unsuspecting traveler. This National Monument was erected by Captain Hansheinrich von Wolf and his wealthy American wife, Jafta, in 1908-9. It is generally believed that his wife financed this remarkable home.
She was a member of the Saxon nobility and was born in Dresden 1873. Duwiseb is actually a Hottentot name meaning “the white chalk place without water”.
Upon arrival at the Tok Tokkie farm house, you will be introduced to your guide. Prior to departing on a short scenic drive to the starting point of the trail you will be given a daypack with a water bottle and some raisins and a cup. All you have to do is add your camera, binoculars and a book to read during the heat of the day. Your luggage needed for the duration of the trail will be transferred to your overnight camp by vehicle. From your drop-off point in the sand dunes it is a short walk to your first overnight camp. The dunes are not the massive ones that are encountered at Sossusvlei, but small, vegetated dunes that have a unique beauty of their own. Relax with a sundowner, marvel at the magnificent scenery and start “feeling” the desert. Enjoy a dinner and unwind before falling asleep in the open under a blanket of stars.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sleeping out in the open on stretcher beds
Day 11:
Tok Tokkie Trail
Early morning tea or coffee is served before sunrise followed by a light breakfast so that you can set off in the cool of the early morning.
You will be given a lunch pack, as the day heats up it is time to stop at a shady spot. The highlight of the walk is the breathtaking view of the dunes and plains as well as the coming alive” of the desert as the guide allows you to feel, smell, and taste and see the oldest living desert in the world. The “morning news”, as written in the sand of the dunes is always fascinating and with some luck, and the guide’s trained eyes, you may spot some of the desert specials. (Golden Mole, Dancing White Lady, Barking Gecko, Dune Lark, Flightless Wasp to name some). You spend a good part of the morning on the mountain, before descending the other side to a dry riverbed. During the course of the day your guide will explain the wonders of the Namib - how the fascinating desert flora survives by tapping underground water from the riverbed, how insect life, which is prolific, adapts to the harsh environment. Birding is surprisingly good and you may be lucky enough to see one of Namib endemics, the Dune Lark.
Larger animals you might come across include Bat-eared Fox, Oryx, Springbok and Ostrich.
As the day heats up it is time to stop at a shady spot where you can enjoy your lunch pack and fill up your water bottles. There is plenty of time to relax, have a siesta and reflect on all you have seen. As the
heat recedes you start walking – on and through the dunes to your second overnight spot. The scene in front of you is an endless dune sea and “fairy circles” with a backdrop of magnificent mountain scenery. Photography is spectacular as the shadows on the dunes create an ever-changing palette of colors shortly before sunset. A delicious dinner after a long and enjoyable day is indeed welcome. The sound of barking geckoes, the occasional cry of a hyena, the hoo-hoo of spotted eagle owls, and more likely than not, the silence accompanies you through the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sleeping out in the open on stretcher beds
Day 12:
Tok Tokkie Farmhouse - Near Sesriem Area - Sesriem – Dune 45 – Sossusvlei – Near Sesriem Area
Once again you are woken in the soft light shortly before sunrise. Coffee and breakfast is served before you set off through the dune field.
The soft and rolling dunes are interspersed by camel thorn trees, which provide welcome shade for a rest. Today’s walk is easy and you arrive at Tok Tokkie farmhouse at approximately 10:30. When time allows we visit the Namib Desert Environmental Education Trust (NaDEET), a non-profit, donor sponsored trust, which aims at developing environmentally responsible citizens of Namibia. (
www.nadeet.org)
From here we will drive to our camp site that will be near Sesriem area. After putting camp up, you can relax a bit, because tomorrow we start very early to go in to Sossusvlei.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping near Sesriem area
Day 13:
Near Sesriem Area - Sesriem – Dune 45 – Sossusvlei – Near Sesriem Area
Very early morning we will depart from our campsite to reach Sesriem gate. We would like to be there when the gate opens, so that we can get in as soon as possible.
Sossusvlei:
This is a dune wonderland, with towering dunes up to 375m high surrounding a huge, dried-up pan. Dunes extend as far as the eye can see and their rich tints vary from pale apricot to vivid reds and oranges. During a good rainy season, the Tsauchab River flows into the pan, this creates a heaven for water birds. Even during the dry season, Oryx, springbok and ostriches can be seen feeding off the sparse vegetation along the watercourse.
We will drive firstly into where the 4x4 cars is waiting, from there they will take us in a bit before we start to climb the dunes. Around late morning nearly lunch we will get out of this area back to our auto, having some brunch. Rest in the shades of the camel thorn trees, before moving on to Dune 45. Those of you how feels like still climbing dunes is welcome to go up dune 45. On our way back we will stop, then you will walk the 4 km in to canyon, on the other side the auto will wait, this will only be done if day time allows us.
The first settlers that came to Namibia gave Sesriem Canyon its name. The settlers had to connect six leather ropes together to take out water from the canyon, therefore the name Sesriem. It is only a small Canyon.
Brunch, Dinner
Camping near Sesriem area
Day 14:
Near Sesriem area – Solitaire – Namib Naukluft Park - Swakopmund
We will start to make our way towards Swakopmund. A welcome stop at Solitaire for Apple Pie, by Moase.
En-route we drive through the heart of the Namib Desert. Experience the majesty and mystique of Namibia’s ‘Living Desert’, the Namib.
Here, you will find bountiful sunshine, endless open spaces, and scenic beauty. Rust-red dunes are covered with golden long-stemmed grasses, and the myriad animals, birds and insects the desert supports provide endless fascination and wonder.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner in restaurant
Fix accommodation in Swakopmund
Day 15:
Swakopmund
To day is at own leisure in Swakopmund. There are many activities on offer, which you can book. E.g. flights over the Skeleton Coast/Sossusvlei etc, quad biking in the dunes, intensive desert tour and many more. (All at own cost.) Remember to book in advance, the guide will tell you a bit more a few days before.
Scenic Flight: Skeleton Coast
Departing from Swakopmund, we head straight to fly over the Brandberg, Twyfelfontein and Damaraland. The flight continues along the Ugab riverbed in search for desert elephant, rhinos, giraffes and mountain zebras. Turning southbound, we fly along the Skeleton Coast, which is littered with whalebones and rust-eaten hulls of wrecked ships. The flight continues past Cape Cross seal reserve. Over 200 000 seals are to be found here. Passing Henties Bay and the salt works north of Swakopmund we fly back to Swakopmund.
Flight duration approximately 2-3 hours
Boat cruise in Walvis Bay:
08h30 – A 4 ½ hour-long boat cruise in the lagoon of Walvis Bay will put you into another world. Some pelicans and flamingos might be spotted – dolphins and seals swim along the boat, and there is the possibility of some seals jumping into the boat to be fed.
12h00 – Lunch with snacks, oysters and champagne will be served in the lagoon
Breakfast, Dinner at restaurant
Fixed Accommodation
Day 16:
Swakopmund – Spitzkoppe – Usakos area
You had a day at leisure in Swakopmund, hope you enjoyed it. We will have to start early in the morning, so that you will have enough time to climb the Spitzkoppe.
Spitzkoppe: The Gross Spitzkoppe together with the Pontok Mountains and the Klein Spitzkoppe represent a landmark in Namibia with a height of 1728 m.
We will sleep in the area of Usakos.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping at Usakos area
Day 17:
Usakos area – Culture Road to Kamanjab
Today, you will have the opportunity to meet a different culture groups, as we drive. Whole day of culture groups.
Hereros at Omajete – is the modern Himba that you will see later today. Both these culture groups are very prude people
Damaras from Ugab River up to Fransfontein
From here we will make our way to Kamanjab, so that we can visit a Himba Village in the afternoon.
CEC PRINCE TOUR
Northern of Namibia
Day 1
After arrival at Hosea Airport, outside Windhoek, you will be taken to you accommodation, where you will spend your first night. After everybody has had time to rest after the long flight, you will be taken on a city tour. Your guide will tell you when you will depart for the city tour of Windhoek. That evening you will have dinner in a group at one of Windhoek’s best outdoor restaurants.
Day 2
The Namibian sun, culture and hospitality will bid you welcome at the rendezvous point after which our journey to the various treasures of “Our Beloved Country” will commence. We will travel from Windhoek via Otjiwarongo to the small railway town of yesteryear, Otavi. Before we reach Otavi we will stop in Okahandja at the traditional woodcraft market where everybody can enjoy the woodwork, but remember we will stop here again at the end of your trip. After the woodcraft market we will do a town tour of Okahandja, this is the capital of the Hehero people and a lot of their history lies in this town. Then we are off to Otjiwarongo to enjoy some light refreshments to strengthen the ‘inner person’ before moving on to Otavi and then to our accommodation for the night.
Day 3
After breakfast we will travel to Tsumeb, the copper town of Namibia that was 100 years old in 2005 After a visit to the town we will travel to the fascinating Lake Otjikoto for some sightseeing. It is believed that this lake forms part of underground water of which the source magnitude must still be determined. This is also a popular historical treasure diving spot for scuba divers. It is believed that there may be treasures hidden in the depths of the lake. We will progress further north to reach our turn around destination, just outside of Etosha National Park.
Day 4
After a hearty breakfast we will go into Etosha National Park via the Von Lindequist Gate. On this journey you can encounter by get a glimpse of Lions, Elephants nurturing their young at a near-by water hole, White Rhinoceros grazing, Zebras running free under the African sun and much, much more. Lunch will be served at the Halali rest camp after which you will have some time on hands to go and sit at the water hole in real African style, observe wildlife at the waterhole near the camp or just explore the camp. Late afternoon we will start moving back to our accommodation where we will spend the evening with friends.
Day 5
After a good breakfast, we are on our way through Etosha, towards Okaukuejo, so that we are out of Etosha National Park just before lunch time. We will have our lunch at Etosha Gateway. Then we move on to the Vingerklip in the Ugab Terrace area where we will spend the night.
Day 6
After breakfast we will stop at the Fingerklip itself and have a moment of amazement at nature's wonderful skill. From here we journey to Khorixas, as we make our way towards the Petrtified Forrest. Once we reach the Petrtified Forest you will be given the opportunity to explore the environment. From here we will travel to Twyfelfontein where we will stay the night, in real African luxury style in real African and atmosphere.
Day 7
After breakfast we will drive to Twyfelfontein where we will enjoy an early morning hike while admiring the famous rock sketches from an almost forgotten age. From here our journey takes us to the Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes – truly natural wonders! On route to the small town of Uis we’ll stop for a refreshing lunch. At Cape Cross you’ll see the largest seal colony in Southern Africa and arguably in the world - it is truly an amazing and breathtaking site to see.
Day 8
Today is not a full day, we will only travel to Swakopmund, but first we will stop at the Lichen Fields, to explore these pioneers of the plant world. After we book in at our accommodation, we will do a city tour of this popular holiday resort and then you are free to go and explore the town on your own. Remember you will have to buy lunch for your own account. Dinner will be at one of the many restaurants of Swakopmund, you will be spoiled with a variety of local seafood and Ale Carte restaurants and unique offerings of local hotels. Enjoy true German hospitality in Namibia!
Day 9
Today we do not have a busy program, you will be able to go on a marine cruise and experience some of our marine life. We can not garantee that you will see dolphins, but maybe you are lucky. Rest of day free time.
Day 10
After breakfast we will proceed to experience the mystical Namib dunes – a definite must-see! On this journey you will see the oldest Welwitchia Mirabilis in Namibia and we will also visit the Moon Landscape – one of Namibia’s most fascinating geological features. Our final destination for the day is Usakos. En route to this small but lovely little town, we will stop at various historical World War I sites. When we arrive in Usakos you will have the time to meet some of the children of the Children Village, before we will go to our accommodation
Day 11 & 12
During these two days we will spend most of our time with the people of CEC. Also we will go and visit the Spitzkoppe and Amieb Ranch and a town tour of Usakos and surroundings.
Day 13
After a good Namibian breakfast, we will say goodbye to CEC, and then make our way back to Windhoek. Remember I said in the beginning of the tour that we will stop again at the woodcraft market in Okahandja, before we will go to Windhoek. After arriving at our accommodation, you are free to go and do your last minute gift hunting. To end our tour we will have a Namibian meal, before your departure back home the next day.
Day 14
Today we say goodbye to each other and hope to see you soon back in Namibia.
CEC PRINCESS TOUR
Southern of Namibia
Day 1
After arrival at Hosea Airport, outside Windhoek, you will be taken to you accommodation, where you will spend your first night. After everybody has had time to rest after the long flight, you will be taken on a city tour. Your guide will tell you when you will depart for the city tour of Windhoek. That evening you will have dinner in a group at one of Windhoek’s best outdoor restaurants.
Day 2
Our journey will take us on a path of discovery through the southern parts of Namibia. Our first stop will be Rehoboth, the capital of the Baster people, where we will visit the museum of the Baster community. We will then proceed to the farming town of Mariental where we will enjoy lunch, just before lunch, we will visit the Hardap dam, which is Namibia’s biggest man made dam. After lunch we are of to !Garas. It is a smaller version of the Quiver Tree Forest and Giant’s Playgrounds, before we are off to our accommodation for the night.
Day 3
After breakfast we will explore Keetmanshoop. Our next exciting stop will be the Fish River Canyon – the second largest canyon in the world! A spectacular and magnificent site to see! We will spend the night at Gondwanapark accommodation, a place that time has forgotten…..
Day 4
Today we travel to the coastal fishing haven of Luderitz, stopping over at the historic town of Aus where you’ll find World War I graves and a prisoner of war camp of yesteryear. An early lunch will be served here. We will stop for a moment at Garub where you will be able to experience the wild horses of the Namib and listen to the tales of how these horses first came to live in this vast and arid desert. You will also stand amazed to learn how they have adapted to living in this unforgiving environment. Our journey will end in Luderitz where we will spend the night. Join us for a tour of the Luderitz harbor after which you will have the rest of the evening to explore the small pubs and restaurants of the town. You can stroll down the sidewalks while the fog folds its mystical arms around you, and maybe the wind strong in your hair.
Day 5
After a hearty breakfast we travel to Dias Point where you will be treated to a tale of Portuguese discovery. From here we visit Kolmanskop, Namibia’s own little diamond mining ghost town where you can visit the diamond shop and even mine for a diamond in the rough! While you can dream of what could be………. You will also be able to acquire an authentic Namibian diamond for the loved one at a diamond merchant at Kolmanskop!
Day 6
After breakfast we travel to Duwiseb castle, an architectural and historical wonder, especially taking into consideration the harsh environment where it is located. Here you will have the opportunity to listen to stories of yesteryear. Lunch will be served on our way to Sossusvlei.
Day 7
Today we have an early start. We travel to Dune 45 where we will enjoy a bit of exercise on the dune. Dune 45 is the most famous dune, almost all the pictures that you see from Sossusvlei have been taken from this dune, and is the most climbed dune, because it is so near the road. We will spend the day exploring the dunes around the amazing Sossusvlei area – an oasis in the desert! Later in the day we also will visit the Sesriem Canyon, no it is not even the shadow of the Fish River Canyon, but we can go down into it.
Day 8
After breakfast we journey to the beautiful town of Swakopmund traveling along the Gaub Pass. Lunch will be served at our way to Swakopmund. Swakopmund is our final destination of the day. After freshening up, you are more than welcome to join us for a tour through this very popular historical German colonial holiday resort. Some international tourists have remarked that “this is so surreal; Swakopmund is a small Germany in Africa”. This is a town where you will be spoiled with the best that local cuisine has to offer. Enjoy the local German hospitality!
Day 9
Today we do not have a busy program, you will be able to go on a marine cruise and experience some of our marine life. We can not garantee that you will see dolphins, but maybe you are lucky. Rest of day free time.
Day 10
After breakfast we will proceed to experience the mystical Namib dunes – a definite must-see! On this journey you will see the oldest Welwitchia Mirabilis in Namibia and we will also visit the Moon Landscape – one of Namibia’s most fascinating geological features. Our final destination for the day is Usakos. En route to this small but lovely little town, we will stop at various historical World War I sites. When we arrive in Usakos you will have the time to meet some of the children of the Children Village, before we will go to our accommodation.
Day 11 & 12
During these two days we will spend most of our time with the people of CEC. Also we will go and visit the Spitzkoppe and Amieb Ranch and a town tour of Usakos and surroundings.
Day 13
After a good Namibian breakfast, we will say goodbye to CEC, and then make our way back to Windhoek. Remember I said in the beginning of the tour that we will stop again at the woodcraft market in Okahandja, before we will go to Windhoek. After arriving at our accommodation, you are free to go and do your last minute gift hunting. To end our tour we will have a Namibian meal, before your departure back home the next day.
Day 14
Today we say goodbye to each other and hope to see you soon back in Namibia.
CROWN TOURS AND SAFARIS NAMIBIA
PO BOX 168
USAKOS
NAMIBIA
