Wildlife & Dunes of Namibia

Exceptional wildlife, photogenic deserts, and beautiful coastline makes Namibia a must-see destination for first-timers or returning visitors. Stand atop sky-high sand dunes in the Namib Desert, seek out big game with an Etosha National Park safari, and keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, seals, turtles, and sunfish during a boat trip in beautiful Walvis Bay. Equally standout is granite landscape of the Erongo mountain range for a wealth of bird life, reptiles, mammals, and plants that are endemic or near endemic.
What you’ll love
- Experiencing the Sossusvlei dunes in the Namib Desert
- Spotting pelicans and flamingos at Walvis Bay Lagoon
- Taking a boat ride from Swakopmund in search of the ‘Marine Big 5’
- Watch the sun set over the Erongo Mountains
- Admiring ancient rock art at Twyfelfontein
- Enjoying game drives at Etosha National Park
- A more personalised experience thanks to small group sizes (maximum 14 people)
What’s included
- Return flights from London Heathrow including baggage and transfers
- Guided walks, sightseeing, and game drives led by an experienced local leader
- 14 nights’ touring accommodation across Namibia
- A night in a wilderness camp
- 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 14 dinners
- All tips, sightseeing and national park entrance fees (as per itinerary)
- All in-destination transport
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
Gallery
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Our with-flights guests depart the UK on an overnight flight to Windhoek.
We arrive in Windhoek and are joined by our without-flight guests. We’ll enjoy an afternoon city tour of Windhoek, the vibrant heart of Namibia. Discover the unique blend of tradition and modernity that makes Windhoek a must-see destination. Later, we’ll enjoy dinner at Windhoek's famous restaurant, Joe's Beerhouse.
Avani Hotel, Windhoek - Namibia
One of Windhoek’s standout landmarks is also one of its most stylish hotels. The Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino offers comfortable modern rooms to rest and relax in, plus a rooftop pool area complete with a restaurant and bar that serve up outstanding views over the city. Location-wise it’s only a few hundred metres from the city’s main monuments and attractions, as well as a cluster of shops and a craft market.
After breakfast we’ll travel into the majestic Namib Desert of Namibia. We’ll arrive at our lodge and have some time to settle in before heading out to enjoy a sundowner drive in the Petrified Dunes. Discover the fossilised dunes, the red dunes above the plateau and the many wonders of the Namib Desert on this guided drive around the Gondwana Namib Park.
Namib Desert Lodge, Namib - Namibia
The main building and the chalets of Namib Desert Lodge are spread out along the foot of the fossilised dunes of the ancient Namib desert. A comfortable stay is guaranteed by 65 en suite rooms with air conditioning. A restaurant and bar, an inviting terrace with views of the fossilised dunes and two swimming pools beckon you to linger and relax. Oryx antelope and springbok make frequent appearances at the illuminated watering hole.
This morning, we’ll rise early to explore the breathtaking beauty of Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, and Sesriem Canyon, where the stunning red dunes, surreal white clay pans, and dramatic rock formations create a mesmerizing and unforgettable landscape. We transfer to Dune Star Camp situated at the top of ancient dunes overlooking the vast Namib desert. This eco-fiendly intimate camp has beds designed to be wheeled out for an unforgettable night under the stars.
Swakopmund Plaza Hotel - Namibia
Ideally located in the heart of Swakopmund, this hotel puts you in strolling distance of the town’s historic centre and a cluster of shops, bars, and restaurants. Spacious rooms in neutral tones come with little splashes of colour and all the modern comforts and conveniences you’d expect. As for facilities, there’s a rooftop terrace with views over the coast, plus a small bistro-style restaurant where breakfast is served.
Enjoy the stillness of the morning with a sunrise walk over the dunes. Return to the camp for breakfast and then head to the town of Solitaire on the edge of the Namib Naukluft National Park. We stop at a small bakery founded by Percy 'Moose' McGregor a Scottish adventurer who included a German apple pie in his range of baked goods. His pie and warm welcome quickly caught on and visitors come from near and far to sample his famous pie. Who would have thought you would find a favourite humble dessert in the middle of Namibia. From here we continue our drive through spectacular scenery to our next accommodation, the Rostock Ritz lodge. Relax by the pool and watch the sun go down or join the guide for a 2-hour sundowner drive. Look out for mountain zebra, ostrich, and oryx.
Later in the evening, you will have the option of going on a walk with your guide which offers a glimpse into the nocturnal theatre of this unique eco-system. Most of the animals in the Namib can only be observed after dark.
Hohenstein Lodge, Erongo - Namibia
The Hohenstein Lodge is located at the foot of the Hohenstein, the highest peak of the Erongo mountains. The Hohenstein Lodge offers accommodation in 14 spacious rooms with en-suite shower/WC and in-room safe. A shady terrace belongs to each room. Facilities: Reception and restaurant are located in the main building which is connected by comfortably paved walkways with swimming pool and bungalows.
(June, September & October 2024 departures)
Ai-Aiba Rock Painting Lodge, Erongo - Namibia
The Rock Painting Lodge sits against a dramatic backdrop of imposing granite boulders in the foothills of the Erongo Mountain range. The lodge’s 10 African-inspired chalets offer comfortable accommodation that optimises the unique setting. Large windows frame the rocky landscape and bush Savannah, while a shaded balcony provides the perfect spot to relax, listen to the sounds of nature, and wake up to the pink and blue hues of the African morning sky. Each air-conditioned room has a small lounge with a tea and coffee station, an electronic safe, plus spacious bathrooms complete with a walk-in shower.
After breakfast, we depart for the coastal town of Swakopmund, where we'll be staying for the next two nights. The valleys of the Swakop River form an otherworldly landscape and is likened to the moon's surface. It came into existence as the river cut through the softer surface deposits. These soft materials were laid down some 460 million years ago when the area's climate was wet. After checking into our hotel we will head out for dinner in one of the local restaurants.
Ondjamba Hills, Damaraland - Namibia
A stay at Ondjamba Hills is sure to spark a sense of romance for travelling through Africa. Sitting in the majestic Ugab River Valley, this fully off-grid camp puts untouched wilderness on your doorstep. Meru-style safari tents come with en-suite bathrooms and outside verandas that offer spectacular views over the Brandberg – Namibia’s tallest mountain. The camp is powered by solar energy and water is heated using traditional “donkies” (geysers heated by fire) allowing the smell of woodsmoke to add to the sense of adventure in the great outdoors. Facilities-wise, you can make use of the swimming pool, and enjoy evening meals in a restaurant designed to make the most of Namibia’s starry night skies.
(March & June 2024 departures)
Palmwag Lodge, Damaraland - Namibia
Located on the Uniab River in Damaraland, an area that is home to a wide range of wildlife such as Black Rhino, Giraffe, Zebra and Gemsbok. Facilities include a pool, fully licensed bar and restaurant.
Today we visit Walvis Bay Lagoon and join one of the catamarans for a marine cruise. We hope to spot dolphins, whales, turtles, seals and mola mola (sunfish). Our initial route takes us past oyster farms as we approach Pelican Point with its landmark lighthouse and 60,000 resident Cape Fur Seals. On the south side of Walvis Bay is a great lagoon that attracts tens of thousands of birds, including many flamingos. The lagoon, salt pans and the bird sanctuary which form the Walvis Bay Wetlands are one of the most important coastal wetlands of southern Africa. Tea and coffee is served on board. Following our marine adventure the afternoon is at leisure.
Today we leave the coast and continue further into the Erongo region. In the afternoon we will enjoy a guided 'sundowner' walk, an invigorating hike up a granite hill, situated close to Ai-Aiba Lodge. Here we can relax and enjoy a cold ‘sundowner’ drink while watching the sunset over spectacular views of the Erongo Mountains.
Ai-Aiba Rock Painting Lodge, Erongo - Namibia
The Rock Painting Lodge sits against a dramatic backdrop of imposing granite boulders in the foothills of the Erongo Mountain range. The lodge’s 10 African-inspired chalets offer comfortable accommodation that optimises the unique setting. Large windows frame the rocky landscape and bush Savannah, while a shaded balcony provides the perfect spot to relax, listen to the sounds of nature, and wake up to the pink and blue hues of the African morning sky. Each air-conditioned room has a small lounge with a tea and coffee station, an electronic safe, plus spacious bathrooms complete with a walk-in shower.
We will spend the morning on a bush walk to the Living Museum of the San, where we will learn about the traditional culture and lifestyle of the San people - the oldest surviving indigenous hunter-gatherer community in southern Africa. We’ll watch demonstrations of traditional survival techniques including tracking, fire lighting, and foraging. The walk lasts approximately 3 hours, then your afternoon is at leisure.
Ai-Aiba Rock Painting Lodge, Erongo - Namibia
The Rock Painting Lodge sits against a dramatic backdrop of imposing granite boulders in the foothills of the Erongo Mountain range. The lodge’s 10 African-inspired chalets offer comfortable accommodation that optimises the unique setting. Large windows frame the rocky landscape and bush Savannah, while a shaded balcony provides the perfect spot to relax, listen to the sounds of nature, and wake up to the pink and blue hues of the African morning sky. Each air-conditioned room has a small lounge with a tea and coffee station, an electronic safe, plus spacious bathrooms complete with a walk-in shower.
Travel across the wide-open plains of the Damaraland to the dry riverbed of the Uniab River, well known for regular desert elephant sightings. Visit Ozohere for the Himba Village Visit, Rock Engravings and the Damara Living museum. Check into our lodge and enjoy the surroundings at leisure.
Discover the smaller native wildlife on a morning hike led by a knowledgeable local guide. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive as we search for elephants, the rare black rhino, giraffes, zebras, gemsbok, and other native animals.
Leaving Damaraland behind our journey takes us to the vast salt pans and diverse wildlife of the Etosha National Park. Etosha is widely considered to be one of the best national parks in the world due to its strategically placed waterholes that provide for incredible wildlife viewing. Tomorrow we will spend the day in the park on our private safari.
Full Day in Etosha National Park with our own guide and private vehicles. Once we pass the park gates, we will be on the watch for wildlife, stopping whenever they are close - we may even have to stop while they cross the road in front of us - wildlife has the right of way! Stop at one of the park restaurants for lunch (not included) and enjoy sharing photographs from the safari. Return to the lodge and relax
After breakfast we depart for Otjiwarongo in the Waterberg region. On the way we visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund. The CCF works to develop best practices that benefit the entire ecosystem upon which the cheetah depends. This beautiful big cat is under threat of extinction in the wild. Once widespread in Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and into central India they now only inhabit 10% of their original range. We will see the CCFs Ambassador Cheetahs while learning about the programs that address the concerns for wildlife populations and the human communities that share the landscape. Settle into your chalet overlooking a waterhole at our lodge for the next two nights.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and morning. This afternoon take a guided walk to see all that Otjiwa has to offer. With all that Otjiwa has to offer, you can definitely enjoy it on foot. From the smallest insects to the largest antelope, walking through nature will definitely show you all its secrets. With our guides knowing nature like the back of their hands, they can tell you all there is to know about the Namibian wildlife.
After breakfast we travel back to our starting point Windhoek. Time permitting, en-route we may stop at the famous wood carvers' market in Okahandja or the craft market in the main street in Windhoek to pick up a last few souvenir. Afterwards the group will travel on to the Windhoek International Airport where the tour ends for our without-flight guests and it is time to say goodbye to your guide. Flight guests will check-in for their return journey home.
With-flight guests arrive back in the UK

Avani Hotel, Windhoek - Namibia
One of Windhoek’s standout landmarks is also one of its most stylish hotels. The Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino offers comfortable modern rooms to rest and relax in, plus a rooftop pool area complete with a restaurant and bar that serve up outstanding views over the city. Location-wise it’s only a few hundred metres from the city’s main monuments and attractions, as well as a cluster of shops and a craft market.
Namib Desert Lodge, Namib - Namibia
The main building and the chalets of Namib Desert Lodge are spread out along the foot of the fossilised dunes of the ancient Namib desert. A comfortable stay is guaranteed by 65 en suite rooms with air conditioning. A restaurant and bar, an inviting terrace with views of the fossilised dunes and two swimming pools beckon you to linger and relax. Oryx antelope and springbok make frequent appearances at the illuminated watering hole.
Namib Dune Star Camp, Namib - Namibia
Escape from the world. Enjoy the vast desert wilderness and magnificent night skies. 9 wooden chalets offer comfortable accommodation, with the dining room and bar in a central chalet with far reaching views. After the dunes have transformed to gold and the distant mountains glow purple, it’s time to wheel beds onto balconies for a night under the glittering sky of the Namib. An early morning walk will take you back to the Namib Desert Lodge.
Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge & Spa, Namib - Namibia
The Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge, located on a 12,000-hectare property on the edge of the Namib Desert, consists of unique, semi-subterranean rock “igloos” aesthetically integrated with the natural surroundings. Accommodation consists of 16 fully equipped standard double rooms and 3 suites with views over the desert. There is a pleasant dining room, bar and reception area. Relax by the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy the sundowner drive operated by the lodge.
Swakopmund Plaza Hotel - Namibia
Ideally located in the heart of Swakopmund, this hotel puts you in strolling distance of the town’s historic centre and a cluster of shops, bars, and restaurants. Spacious rooms in neutral tones come with little splashes of colour and all the modern comforts and conveniences you’d expect. As for facilities, there’s a rooftop terrace with views over the coast, plus a small bistro-style restaurant where breakfast is served.
Ai-Aiba Rock Painting Lodge, Erongo - Namibia
The Rock Painting Lodge sits against a dramatic backdrop of imposing granite boulders in the foothills of the Erongo Mountain range. The lodge’s 10 African-inspired chalets offer comfortable accommodation that optimises the unique setting. Large windows frame the rocky landscape and bush Savannah, while a shaded balcony provides the perfect spot to relax, listen to the sounds of nature, and wake up to the pink and blue hues of the African morning sky. Each air-conditioned room has a small lounge with a tea and coffee station, an electronic safe, plus spacious bathrooms complete with a walk-in shower.
Palmwag Lodge, Damaraland - Namibia
Located on the Uniab River in Damaraland, an area that is home to a wide range of wildlife such as Black Rhino, Giraffe, Zebra and Gemsbok. Facilities include a pool, fully licensed bar and restaurant.
Etosha Safari Lodge, Etosha National Park - Namibia
Guests rave about the view: the restaurant and chalets, situated on a hillock, offer magnificent views of the African bush savannah. All of the 65 double room chalets have air conditioners and mosquito nets, and a choice of three swimming pools between them. Apart from the restaurant and bar there is a wooden platform for sundowners high above the Mopani bush.
Otjiwa Lodge, Waterberg Region - Namibia
Set amidst the unspoilt beauty of Namibia’s oldest game farm, Otjiwa Safari Lodge is the ultimate holiday destination for those in search of an authentic African experience that meets the very best in international tourism standards. All the chalets overlook the water hole, and offer spacious bedrooms with traditional African decor, and large modern bathrooms with shower. True Namibian hospitality and personal service go without saying.
Essential information
It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Insulated jacket/top
- Walking clothing
- Walking socks (plus spares)
- Sunhat
- Gloves/mitts and warm hat
- Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)
- Headtorch
- High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
- Sunglasses with a dark lens
- Rucksack (15-30 litres)
- Mobile phone
- Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.)
- Passport
- Visa (if applicable)
- Copy of your travel insurance policy
- UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC)
Recommended
- Collapsible walking poles
- Swimwear and travel towel
- Snacks
- Dry bags
- Rubbish bags
- Insect repellent
Optional extras
- Camera
- Sit mat
- Flask for hot drinks
- Durable lunch box
- Gaiters
- GPS device
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
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If you choose land only, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements, including your flights and airport transfers at your destination. Any flights booked independently will also not be covered by our ATOL license.
Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
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2025 | ||||||||
08 Sep - 24 Sep 2025 16 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport
Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
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Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
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06 Oct - 22 Oct 2025 16 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport
Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2025 | ||||||||
08 Sep - 24 Sep 2025 16 nights |
Itinerary
Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
||||
06 Oct - 22 Oct 2025 16 nights |
Itinerary
Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
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Important information
- With flight holidays: Price includes return flights to Windhoek, hold baggage and airport transfers
*If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, please ensure you’ve selected a land-only option before proceeding to book.

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