Splendid Deserts of Namibia 15 Days (All rates are listed in USD.)

Arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, where you will be met by your guide. You will depart Windhoek early morning and continue via the towns of Rehoboth, Uhlenhorst, Stampriet and Aranos to Kalahari Game Lodge. It is a long day’s drive, but all worth it.

• Kalahari South
  Neighbouring Botswana, in southeastern Namibia, the renowned Kalahari Desert spans over the spectacularly scenic landscape in the south which features small red-orange dunes, similar to those of the world-famous Sossusvlei. This semi-arid southern terrain is covered with a thin layer of golden savanna and forms part of the Kalahari Basin. This landscape of ancient dunes and yellow grasslands is home to an array of desert-adapted wildlife who call southern Kalahari home including: antelope, spotted hyena, cheetah, meerkat, ostrich, gemsbok, porcupine, the Kalahari lion and a large number of migratory birds. Visitors can discover centuries-old Bushmen paintings, soak up the magnificent views of the southern Kalahari and stay over in one of the many lodges in the area and enjoy nature walks, nature drives and horse riding.

• Kalahari Game Lodge
  The Kalahari Game Lodge (KGL) is a luxury private game farm situated on the south-eastern border of Namibia.This oasis surrounded by red dunes is a mere 18 km from the Mata-Mata border post, entering the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The KGL has eight luxury chalets with beautiful views of the dry Auob riverbed. For the more adventurous, there are six secluded campsites along the Auob riverbed.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: Nature Drive
Accommodation: Okonjima Plains Camp (or similar)
Special Interests: None

Today we are out to track the lions on the 23 000-hectare lion camp which forms part of the 43 000-hectare reserve of Kalahari Game Lodge. There are eighteen lions in the lion camp of the Kalahari Game Lodge. The lions are tracked by the radio signal from the collar-transmitter. Every stalk is crowned with success and visitors can watch these impressive animals in the wild.

• Kalahari South
  Neighbouring Botswana, in southeastern Namibia, the renowned Kalahari Desert spans over the spectacularly scenic landscape in the south which features small red-orange dunes, similar to those of the world-famous Sossusvlei. This semi-arid southern terrain is covered with a thin layer of golden savanna and forms part of the Kalahari Basin. This landscape of ancient dunes and yellow grasslands is home to an array of desert-adapted wildlife who call southern Kalahari home including: antelope, spotted hyena, cheetah, meerkat, ostrich, gemsbok, porcupine, the Kalahari lion and a large number of migratory birds. Visitors can discover centuries-old Bushmen paintings, soak up the magnificent views of the southern Kalahari and stay over in one of the many lodges in the area and enjoy nature walks, nature drives and horse riding.

• Kalahari Game Lodge
  The Kalahari Game Lodge (KGL) is a luxury private game farm situated on the south-eastern border of Namibia.This oasis surrounded by red dunes is a mere 18 km from the Mata-Mata border post, entering the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The KGL has eight luxury chalets with beautiful views of the dry Auob riverbed. For the more adventurous, there are six secluded campsites along the Auob riverbed.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: Lion Tracking
Accommodation: Kalahari Game Lodge (or similar)
Special Interests: None

The route today takes us further into the Kalahari and into the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park situated on the western boundary of the Republic of South Africa bordering Namibia. After the border crossing formalities at Mata Mata, we will continue to one of the Wilderness Camps in the southern area of the Park.

• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (South Africa)
  Combining the former Kalahari Gemsbok National Park of South Africa and the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana, the enthralling Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a wonderland of bright orange dunes, spectacular wildlife and fascinating flora. This hauntingly beautiful desert land is part of Africa’s first transfrontier park, ensuring that conservation is the top priority for this vast ecosystem and its inhabitants – it also supports and protects the indigenous people here, the ‡Khomani San and Mier communities. Visitors can look forward to spotting lions, leopards, hyenas, cheetahs, blue wildebeest, springbok, eland, and more than 200 bird species, including migrating flamingos and pelicans, and numerous raptors. Some of the activities on offer include game drives, 4×4 excursions, hiking, swimming, eco trails, star-spotting and nature photography.

• Namibia Tracks & Trails Mobile Safari
  Namibia’s spectacular scenic beauty and diverse flora and fauna can only be truly appreciated on an adventurous camping safari into the remote and isolated regions far off the normal tourist route. Daylight hours are filled with exploring the surrounds and the nights are spent under a blanket of stars with the unique sound of the African bush for company.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: Game Viewing Drive
Accommodation: Namibia Tracks & Trails Mobile Safari (or similar)
Special Interests: None

Early morning game viewing drives into the park in search of the Kalahari predators and plains game.

• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (South Africa)
  Combining the former Kalahari Gemsbok National Park of South Africa and the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana, the enthralling Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a wonderland of bright orange dunes, spectacular wildlife and fascinating flora. This hauntingly beautiful desert land is part of Africa’s first transfrontier park, ensuring that conservation is the top priority for this vast ecosystem and its inhabitants – it also supports and protects the indigenous people here, the ‡Khomani San and Mier communities. Visitors can look forward to spotting lions, leopards, hyenas, cheetahs, blue wildebeest, springbok, eland, and more than 200 bird species, including migrating flamingos and pelicans, and numerous raptors. Some of the activities on offer include game drives, 4×4 excursions, hiking, swimming, eco trails, star-spotting and nature photography.

• Namibia Tracks & Trails Mobile Safari
  All our safaris are offered on a non-participating basis with the entire camping equipment supplied by us. Standard equipment includes: comfortable dome tents, sleeping rolls with comfortable mattress, proper duvets, cushion, towels and linen, camping fold up beds, electric tent lantern and bedside table, solar bucket showers (1x for every 4 guests) as well as long-drop bush toilets (1x for every 4 guests).

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: Game Viewing Drive
Accommodation: Namibia Tracks & Trails Mobile Safari (or similar)
Special Interests: None

Early morning game viewing drives into the park in search of the Kalahari predators and plains game.

• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (South Africa)
  Combining the former Kalahari Gemsbok National Park of South Africa and the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana, the enthralling Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a wonderland of bright orange dunes, spectacular wildlife and fascinating flora. This hauntingly beautiful desert land is part of Africa’s first transfrontier park, ensuring that conservation is the top priority for this vast ecosystem and its inhabitants – it also supports and protects the indigenous people here, the ‡Khomani San and Mier communities. Visitors can look forward to spotting lions, leopards, hyenas, cheetahs, blue wildebeest, springbok, eland, and more than 200 bird species, including migrating flamingos and pelicans, and numerous raptors. Some of the activities on offer include game drives, 4×4 excursions, hiking, swimming, eco trails, star-spotting and nature photography.

• Namibia Tracks & Trails Mobile Safari
  Namibia’s spectacular scenic beauty and diverse flora and fauna can only be truly appreciated on an adventurous camping safari into the remote and isolated regions far off the normal tourist route. Daylight hours are filled with exploring the surrounds and the nights are spent under a blanket of stars with the unique sound of the African bush for company.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: Game Viewing Drive
Accommodation: Namibia Tracks & Trails Mobile Safari (or similar)
Special Interests: None

Leave the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park via Mata Mata in a full day’s journey through the desert-dominated landscapes to a picturesque Quiver Tree Forest.

• Keetmanshoop
  Set on the Trans-Namib Railway in the ǁKaras region of southern Namibia, the town of Keetmanshoop is known as the capital of southern Namibia. Founded in 1860, the quaint oasis is a living slice of history. German colonial architecture is dotted around the town and the local museum, housed in an old church, provides interesting insight into the town’s heritage. Just a short drive out of town, the Quiver Tree Forest is a sea of spikes and twisted trunks, while the neighbouring ‘Giant’s Playground’ is an evocative expanse of strange rock formations. Both offer superb opportunities for photography, particularly at sunset.

• Quiver Tree Forest
  The Quiver Tree Forest is worth a visit and can also be found at Farm Garas, 20 km north of Keetmanshoop on the B1 or at Farm Gariganus, 20 km north-east of Keetmanshoop on the C17.  The Garas (means Quivertree in the Nama/Damara language), the visitor can find a special Quivertree park, where hundreds of Quiver trees (Aloe Dichotoma) grow on and between granite rocks.  The manager of the rest camp is also an artist and one can find several sculptures made from all sorts of materials along the road. 

• Mesosaurus Fossil Camp
  Mesosaurus Fossil Camp boasts rustic accommodation chalets, a barbecue lapa and 6 campsites. The accommodations feature three twin bed chalets and one family chalet with three single beds and one double bed, equipped for self catering guests. All chalets have en suite bathrooms with shower and mosquito nets. For those desiring even greater solitude, there is a bush camp available in an isolated valley.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: None
Accommodation: Mesosaurus Fossil Camp (or similar)
Special Interests: None

Today we will journey through the town of Keetmanshoop to the spectacular northern fringes of the Fish River Canyon.

• Fish River Canyon
  Carving out an epic rocky wonderland in southern Namibia, the Fish River has created Africa’s largest, and the world’s second-largest, canyon. Hot, dry and dramatic, the Fish River Canyon stretches for an astonishing 160 kilometres, reaching up to 27 kilometres wide and 550 metres deep. Its vast, rugged beauty draws visitors from across the globe. Adventurers can tackle the challenging 85 kilometre Fish River Hiking Trail, which winds through 1.5 billion years of geological history, while those seeking rest can soak in the mineral-rich hot springs of Ai-Ais or admire breathtaking views from Hobas Restcamp and other viewpoints along the rim. Scenic chartered flights, horse riding, nature drives, and seasonal kayaking complete this unforgettable Namibian experience.

• Canyon Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia
  A gem in the rugged environment, Canyon Lodge is a fusion of farmhouse flavour and natural splendour. Walkways lead to 30 natural stone chalets nestled amongst granite boulders. Celebrate dawn amongst the quiver trees and the aweinspiring adventure of life from the rim of the Fish River Canyon.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: None
Accommodation: Canyon Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia (or similar)
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine

The Fish River Canyon features a gigantic ravine, in total about 100 miles (160 km) long, up to 27 km wide and in places almost 550 meters deep. It is the longest interior river in Namibia and you have the chance to see it today!

• Fish River Canyon
  Carving out an epic rocky wonderland in southern Namibia, the Fish River has created Africa’s largest, and the world’s second-largest, canyon. Hot, dry and dramatic, the Fish River Canyon stretches for an astonishing 160 kilometres, reaching up to 27 kilometres wide and 550 metres deep. Its vast, rugged beauty draws visitors from across the globe. Adventurers can tackle the challenging 85 kilometre Fish River Hiking Trail, which winds through 1.5 billion years of geological history, while those seeking rest can soak in the mineral-rich hot springs of Ai-Ais or admire breathtaking views from Hobas Restcamp and other viewpoints along the rim. Scenic chartered flights, horse riding, nature drives, and seasonal kayaking complete this unforgettable Namibian experience.

• Canyon Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia
  A gem in the rugged environment, Canyon Lodge is a fusion of farmhouse flavour and natural splendour. Walkways lead to 30 natural stone chalets nestled amongst granite boulders. Celebrate dawn amongst the quiver trees and the aweinspiring adventure of life from the rim of the Fish River Canyon.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: Excursion to the Fish River Canyon
Accommodation: Canyon Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia (or similar)
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine

Today we take the route that follows the winding course of the Orange River with its stark contrast rich landscapes between sky, water and sand to the village of Aussenkehr on the banks of the river. Enjoy an unforgettable sundowner during a trip on the floating raft of this special retreat.

• Orange River
  Rising from the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains in Lesotho, forming part of the international border between South Africa and Namibia, the Orange River is the longest river in South Africa. The Orange River Basin extends into Namibia and northern Botswana. The river snakes its way through one of Southern Africa’s harshest environments bringing life to an area of sheer rugged beauty. Aside from vineyards in the desert the river also creates a mobile playground from which to explore the area. This spectacular river created the diamond dune fields along Namibia’s coast, by washing diamonds downstream from the Kimberly region over millions of years. Visitors can look forward to excellent whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking, as well as wonderful river cruises which allow excellent views of the surroundings.

• Norotshama River Resort
  This malaria-free retreat is framed by Namibia’s breathtaking natural landscape on the banks of the Orange River. Be sure to pack your camera as the route will expose you to stark contrasts of sky, water and sand unlike anything you have witnessed before. Not only will the landscape leave you breathless, but you may well come across the indigenous wild Namib horses that roam this untamed wilderness. To complete a truly memorable day, stop off at the A La Carte Restaurant and indulge in a candle-lit dinner while soaking in a larger-than-life sunset. At Norotshama River Resort there is a choice of luxury thatched chalets or floating bungalows. Riverside camping sites equipped with individual barbeques, electricity and ablution facilities are available. Norotshama Resort is located inside a private reserve, known as Aussenkehr Nature Park. You can experience the many unique features of the Park by making enquiries at Norotshama reception.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: None
Accommodation: Norotshama River Resort (or similar)
Special Interests: None

A sea of bright flowers in the vast plains of the southern Namib after the soft winter rains is a unique attraction in the Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park. Experience the most bio-diverse desert of the world during this scenic drive into this nature park.

• Aus
  Perched above the plains of the Namib Desert in the rocky Aus Mountains, the small village of Aus lies at the heart of phenomenal botanic diversity. Aus serves as an excellent base from which to see the area’s major attraction: the feral horses of the Namib Desert, which run wild and free in the sparsely vegetated plains. The best place for viewings is at the water trough at Garub, which lies just twenty kilometres away from Aus. Visitors can gain insight into the Succulent Karoo by visiting beautiful Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park, home to the most biodiverse desert in the world. Don’t miss the opportunity to camp under the famously clear Namibian night sky and experience the desert landscape on horseback.

• Klein-Aus Vista Eagle’s Nest Chalets Gondwana Collection Namibia
  Forever landscapes, solitude, silence and sunsets. Klein Aus Vista’s Eagle Nest is a self-catering getaway with eight individually-built rock chalets. Keep to yourself or drive to Desert Horse Inn’s restaurant for delicious fare and congenial company. Return to dream of peace and wake to magnificent sunrise scenery.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: None
Accommodation: Klein-Aus Vista Eagle’s Nest Chalets Gondwana Collection Namibia(or similar)
Special Interests: Cycling, Hiking, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife, Wine

A day excursion to the coastal town of Luderitz with a visit to the famous Kolmanskop ghost town is planned for today.

• Aus
  Perched above the plains of the Namib Desert in the rocky Aus Mountains, the small village of Aus lies at the heart of phenomenal botanic diversity. Aus serves as an excellent base from which to see the area’s major attraction: the feral horses of the Namib Desert, which run wild and free in the sparsely vegetated plains. The best place for viewings is at the water trough at Garub, which lies just twenty kilometres away from Aus. Visitors can gain insight into the Succulent Karoo by visiting beautiful Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park, home to the most biodiverse desert in the world. Don’t miss the opportunity to camp under the famously clear Namibian night sky and experience the desert landscape on horseback.

• Klein-Aus Vista Eagle’s Nest Chalets Gondwana Collection Namibia
  Forever landscapes, solitude, silence and sunsets. Klein Aus Vista’s Eagle Nest is a self-catering getaway with eight individually-built rock chalets. Keep to yourself or drive to Desert Horse Inn’s restaurant for delicious fare and congenial company. Return to dream of peace and wake to magnificent sunrise scenery.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: Excursion to Kolmanskop
Accommodation: Klein-Aus Vista Eagle’s Nest Chalets Gondwana Collection Namibia(or similar)
Special Interests: Cycling, Hiking, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife, Wine

Halfway between Aus and Sesriem, amidst the scenic Tiras Mountains on the edge of the Namib Desert lies the Koiimasis Ranch, which will be home for the night.

• Helmeringhausen
  Isolated on private land a the edge of the Namib Desert, the tiny village of Helmeringhausen was founded during the German colonial era. Here, one can enjoy an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity that only the wilderness can provide. The town serves as an idyllic and convenient base for exploring the breathtaking Fish River Canyon, the largest in Africa, with its technicolour scenes and refreshing turquoise pool; nearby Luderitz, with its mysterious ghost town and stunning coast; the astonishing landscapes of Sossusvlei; and the enthralling Naukluft National Park.

• Tiras Mountains
  Situated in southwestern Namibia at the edge of the world-renowned Namib Desert, the Tiras Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for visitors who venture to this red granite wonderland and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this region. Namibian landscapes are synonymous with tranquility, serenity and endless open spaces and the magnificent Tiras Mountains encapsulate this quiet charm. Nature lovers flock here for an off-the-beaten-track experience in one of Namibia’s most beautiful areas. Visitors can enjoy thrilling 4X4 mountain and dune tours, nature walks, game and bird viewing as well as excursions through quiver tree forests and to ancient rock paintings on granite rocks. Visitors can relax at one of the luxurious farm lodges after a wonderful day of activities, or get up close with nature while camping in this beautiful desert wilderness.

• Ranch Koiimasis
  Ranch Koiimasis is situated in the heart of the Tiras Mountains, adjacent to the Namib Desert. The ranch offers a variety of accommodation options, including tastefully furnished chalets at the private Farm-Lodge “Fest Inn Fels,” self-catering bungalows, and exclusive camping sites among granite boulders. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant and Sky-Bar, which provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Nearby activities include guided tours through the desert savannah, Quiver tree forests, and cultural experiences with the local San community. For leisure, the ranch offers a swimming pool, horseback riding, and hiking trails.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: None
Accommodation: Ranch Koiimasis (or similar)
Special Interests: None

Today we travel through some of Namibia’s most spectacular sceneries along the western escarpment of the,Rooisand ridge. Vast expanses of yellow savannah are dotted with shrubs and solitary camelthorn trees. Distant mountain ranges take on different nuances of purple and blue as the day progresses.

• Sossusvlei
  Located in the scenic Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is where you will find the iconic red sand dunes of the Namib. The clear blue skies contrast with the giant red dunes to make this one of the most scenic natural wonders of Africa and a photographer’s heaven. This awe-inspiring destination is possibly Namibia’s premier attraction, with its unique dunes rising to almost 400 metres – making them some of the highest in the world. These iconic dunes come alive in morning and evening light and draw photography enthusiasts from around the globe. Sossusvlei is home to a variety of desert wildlife including oryx, springbok, ostrich and a variety of reptiles. Visitors can climb ‘Big Daddy’, one of Sossusvlei’s tallest dunes; explore Deadvlei, a white, salt, claypan dotted with ancient trees; or for the more extravagant, scenic flights and hot air ballooning are on offer, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime champagne breakfast amidst these majestic dunes.

• Hoodia Desert Lodge
  We invite you to experience the beauty and tranquillity of Hoodia Desert Lodge, surrounded by majestic mountains on the banks of the Tsauchab River. Only a 20-minute drive will bring you to the Sesriem Gate, the entrance of the world-famous red sand-dunes of Sossusvlei.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: None
Accommodation: Hoodia Desert Lodge  (or similar)
Special Interests: None

Very early departure today into the Namib Naukluft Park to witness one of Namibia’s most scenic attractions – the Sossusvlei and the highest dunes of the world. Visit the nearby Deadvlei, a dried out natural water pan with its dead acacia tree trunks rising to the blue sky. The Sesriem Canyon is another attraction worthwhile seeing en route back to the lodge. A relaxing sundowner on top of the nearby ridge ends off an unforgettable day in the desert.

• Sesriem Canyon
  Sesriem Canyon is a captivating natural wonder located in the heart of the Namib Desert in Namibia. Carved over millions of years by the Tsauchab River, this narrow gorge is a testament to the power of erosion. The name Sesriem comes from the Afrikaans and Dutch words for six leather straps, which early pioneers used tied together to draw water from the deep pools within the canyon. Sesriem Canyon is not only a geological marvel but also a haven for unique desert flora and fauna, making it a popular stop for tourists exploring the surreal landscapes of the Namib Desert.

• Sossusvlei
  Located in the scenic Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is where you will find the iconic red sand dunes of the Namib. The clear blue skies contrast with the giant red dunes to make this one of the most scenic natural wonders of Africa and a photographer’s heaven. This awe-inspiring destination is possibly Namibia’s premier attraction, with its unique dunes rising to almost 400 metres – making them some of the highest in the world. These iconic dunes come alive in morning and evening light and draw photography enthusiasts from around the globe. Sossusvlei is home to a variety of desert wildlife including oryx, springbok, ostrich and a variety of reptiles. Visitors can climb ‘Big Daddy’, one of Sossusvlei’s tallest dunes; explore Deadvlei, a white, salt, claypan dotted with ancient trees; or for the more extravagant, scenic flights and hot air ballooning are on offer, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime champagne breakfast amidst these majestic dunes.

• Hoodia Desert Lodge
  We invite you to experience the beauty and tranquillity of Hoodia Desert Lodge, surrounded by majestic mountains on the banks of the Tsauchab River. Only a 20-minute drive will bring you to the Sesriem Gate, the entrance of the world-famous red sand-dunes of Sossusvlei.

Meals Included: Full Board
Activities Included: Sightseeing at Deadvlei and the Sesriem Canyon
Accommodation: Hoodia Desert Lodge  (or similar)
Special Interests: None

Today we will travel back to Windhoek via the scenic Remhoogte pass and the spectacular Naukluft mountain range with lunch stop at the Oanob Resort and dam near Rehoboth ends this adventure packed tour. Your guide will drop you off at the Hosea Kutako International Airport in time for your outbound flight. Take care of all formalities and bid farewell to Namibia; we wish you a safe journey home.