In April 2024, I went on a 9-day road trip across Namibia, choosing to hire a personal guide through a travel agency for the entire trip. This guide not only drove us in a bus through the expansive landscapes but also handled all the logistics – securing entrance tickets, arranging meals, and managing fuel stops. Although this option was more expensive, it was completely worth it for a stress-free journey, allowing us to dive deeply into the experience without any distractions. Namibia is an extraordinary place; its magic is hard to put into words. The kindness of the locals, the exceptional food at every stop, and the sheer fascination of each destination were remarkable. I definitely plan to return one day to discover even more of what Namibia has to offer!
Steal my itinerary for an unforgettable road trip:
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DAY 1
Arrival in Windhoek
On our first day, after a 10.5-hour flight from Frankfurt, we arrived at Windhoek International Airport. The airport is approximately 45 minutes from the center. We took some time to get used to the climate, did a little sightseeing in Windhoek, and had a beautiful sunset view at a rooftop bar.
DAYS 2 & 3
Etosha National Park
Our guide picked us up around 7:30 a.m., and we headed north to Etosha National Park; it was about an 8-hour drive with a few stops. We made a quick stop in Otjiwarongo to gather some supplies before continuing to Etosha. We arrived early in the afternoon where we had our first game drive in the park, visiting waterholes looking for predators, zebras, giraffes, elephants, rhinos, and many different species of antelope. Just before sunset, we checked into our lodge and had a peaceful moment watching the animals at the floodlit waterhole. We could see some rhinos having a bath, and a few hyenas sniffing around.
The next day, we started our first game drive at sunrise to observe the predators while they were still active. We drove for three hours around Etosha National Park and made a stop at the striking Etosha Pan, known as the “great white place”. Here, we were able to step out of the vehicle onto this 4500 sq km salt desert before resuming our search for the Big 4. After lunch, we continued exploring the park for another three hours and left the park before sunset.Our lodge for this night was just outside Etosha National Park.
What makes Etosha National Park special?
It is renowned for being one of the top wildlife spotting locations in Southern Africa, vast in size and home to four of the Big Five – elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos, with only the water buffalo absent. The park’s unique landscape, an ancient dried-up lake bed turned desert, creates a nearly moon-like terrain, distinguishing Etosha from other game reserves.
When is the best time to visit Etosha National Park?
The ideal months are from May to August, the cold and dry season, when animals frequently gather at the park’s numerous waterholes. The period from August to September also offers excellent viewing, though it’s advisable to schedule game drives early in the morning to avoid the intense heat. Starting in September, the hot and wet season begins, possibly bringing sporadic showers which can impact bird watching, yet many animals can still be seen around the waterholes. Early October is another prime time for a visit, with fewer crowds, occasional nighttime rains, and rewarding morning game drives.
How to get to Etosha National Park?
Located in northern Namibia near the Angolan border, the nearest towns to Etosha are Grootfontein, Ondangwa, and Tsumeb, where travelers can find ATMs, supermarkets, and snack shops. Visitors typically drive from the south via Outjo, about 100 km from the park’s entrance, where it’s advisable to fuel up and stock necessities for the journey.
How many days?
Although it’s possible to visit Etosha for just a day, spending at least 2 to 3 nights is essential for a thorough and enjoyable wildlife experience, considering the effort it takes to get there.
DAY 4
Visiting the tribal people in Damaraland & camping in Spitzkoppe
First stop: Damaraland
We set off at sunrise, driving to Damaraland to encounter some of Namibia’s distinctive tribal communities – the Himba and Herero – who reside in this region. They operate small markets where we were able to buy authentic souvenirs like traditional purses, figurines, and other items.
What to know about the tribal people?
In the pictures on the right and below, you can see women of the Herero tribe. I didn’t post any pictures of the Himba in this blog because the women are topless, and it is “not appropriate” to post pictures like this online. However, you can have a discreet look at my Instagram account.
The women of the Himba tribe typically wear skirts made from goat skins and decorate themselves with iron or shell bead jewelry. Both men and women apply a red paste made of ochre and butter to their skin and hair. This paste protects their skin from the desert environment and is also culturally important, symbolizing the color of the earth and the essence of life.
Their traditional homes, known as “ozondjise”, are simple, cone-shaped structures. These homes are constructed from locally sourced materials: the framework is made of branches, which are then covered with a mixture of mud and dung to insulate and waterproof the structure. The roof is crafted from palm leaves, providing protection from the harsh sun and occasional rain.
Herero women are renowned for their vibrant and colorful ankle-length gowns, featuring high necklines, snug bodices, and voluminous puffed sleeves. Originally influenced by Victorian-era European fashion, these dresses have evolved into a significant cultural emblem. Each dress is handcrafted and paired with a cloth headdress known as “otjikaiva”, which is shaped like cattle horns, representing respect, pride, and a link to their ancestors.
The design of their traditional attire, referred to as Ohorokova, was heavily inspired by German settlers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Initially introduced by German colonizers to impose European norms and modesty, the style has been embraced and transformed by the Herero people. Today, these Victorian-style gowns have been adapted to reflect a unique African identity, marked by an exuberance of color and distinctive flair, making them a symbolic representation of the Herero heritage.
Second stop: Spitzkoppe Campsite
After visiting the tribes, we continued to our next destination, Spitzkoppe Camp. Upon arrival, we checked in and set up our tents for the night. We then explored the area on foot as the sun set. This experience was the highlight of my trip to Namibia, hidden deep within the Namib Desert! This area features a group of unique, 700-million-year-old granite peaks that rise dramatically from the horizon. The tallest peak stands 700 meters above the ground. It certainly lives up to its reputation!
What to know about Spitzkoppe Campsite?
Spitzkoppe Campsite boasts 31 campsites spread throughout the reserve, each isolated from the others. This layout is a key reason why the campsite is so renowned, as it offers a private, intimate setting that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of Spitzkoppe. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a map detailing all the campsite locations, and you might want to drive around to choose the perfect spot for your tent.
Are there toilets and showers at Spitzkoppe Campsite?
Each campsite comes equipped with its own toilet, although there is no running water. However, daily cleaning services are provided at all sites. Flushable toilets and warm water showers are available at the park’s entrance.
Where to book a spot at the Spitzkoppe Campsite?
You can easily book the Campsite via the contact form on their website or by sending an email to reservations@logufa.com. For those not staying overnight, day visitors can access the park for a small fee. The entrance fee is N$120 (about 6€) for adults and N$80 for children.
DAY 5
Swakopmund & Sandwich Harbour
After enjoying breakfast at sunrise at the Spitzkoppe Campsite, we headed west towards Swakopmund. The drive took about 5 hours. Upon arrival, we checked into our hotel and had lunch in the city.
Swakopmund is on the edge of the Namib Desert and is the fourth largest city in Namibia. It is known for its beaches and old German buildings from the 19th century. It was founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South West Africa. Most of the time, it is really cold and very foggy. This is due to its location between the cold Atlantic Ocean and the hot interior, which often leads to foggy conditions, especially during the winter and dry season months.
At 12:30 pm, our guide picked us up to take us to the Namib coast, specifically Sandwich Harbour, which is about an hour from Swakopmund. Sandwich Harbour is a place where the ancient Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean. ,Namib’ means ,vast place’, perfectly describing the endless beaches and dunes stretching along this coast. Known as the Skeleton Coast due to the many shipwrecks and whale bones along the shore, this area is not just about remains; it’s also teeming with life: the jackals. These animals are common in Africa and very brave, often sneaking close to lions to steal bits of their food.
We enjoyed a delicious picnic at the beach and then drove in a 4×4 through the vast dunes to some of the most picturesque panoramic views. For sunset, we drove back to Swakopmund, passing by pelicans and the pink salt lake in Walvis Bay.
I booked this excursion through GetYourGuide.
DAY 6
Quad biking tour & heading to the Namib Desert
After breakfast, we checked out and went on an exciting quad biking tour in the desert. It was really fun because the dunes weren’t too hilly, allowing us to drive fast over longer distances.
After the quad biking tour, in the afternoon, we headed out for several hours towards the Namib Desert, passing through the famous Kuiseb Pass and stopping at Solitaire, where you can eat the most delicious apple pie. Solitaire is a small place with just a gas station, a store, a chapel, and a bakery that has a café. There’s also a lodge and a campsite.
We arrived at our lodge in the late afternoon and spent the evening by the pool, chatting and enjoying a delicious dinner.
DAY 7
Naukluft National Park: Sossusvlei
We departed at dawn from the lodge to arrive at the Sesriem park gate for sunrise, before other tourists arrived. There were already four cars waiting before us, and within just a few minutes, ten more cars joined.
Do you need an entrance ticket to get into Sossusvlei?
The Sossusvlei main gate, which operates from sunrise to sunset (approximately 6:30 am to 6 pm), is where you purchase your permits. Permit prices are NAD 80 (USD 4) per person and NAD 10 (USD 0.50) per car, and are valid for 24 hours. The inner gate, which opens an hour earlier and closes an hour later than the main gate, simply checks that you already have your permit.
Are there parkings and shuttles available?
There are two parking areas at Sossusvlei: the first is accessible via a gravel road in a 2WD vehicle and is about 65 km (40 miles) from the entrance gates. The other parking area at Deadvlei is an additional 5 km (3 miles) through deep sand, requiring a 4×4 and good driving skills to reach. Alternatively, there’s a shuttle from the 2WD parking area to the 4×4 parking area, so you don’t need to walk if you prefer not to.
How to explore Naukluft National Park?
We drove down an ancient riverbed surrounded by towering dunes to the 2WD parking area (around 55 km) and then took a 4×4 shuttle into the Sossusvlei area. We passed Dune 45 but did not hike it. Next, we explored the Sossusvlei area on foot before heading into Deadvlei with its large expanse of bleached, cracked clay and skeletal camel thorn trees, set against a backdrop of massive dunes with ever-changing colors. In the Sossusvlei area, there are several of these dried-out salt and/or clay pans where you can see dry, cracked ground with skeleton trees and bright orange sand dunes in the background.
Deadvlei is the most iconic, given the stark contrast between the white/beige clay ground and the rich hues of the sand dunes surrounding it. It’s striking to see such a white landscape, which is a rarity in the endless desert. We arrived there around 9 am and stayed until 11 am, by which time the heat was intensifying, making it tough to walk through the sand. Therefore, I highly recommend bringing at least a 2.5L bottle of water with you, especially if you decide to climb the dunes!
DAY 8
Windhoek: A Giraffe Hotel just for us
After breakfast, we embarked on a 7-hour journey to our last destination of the trip, the renowned Giraffe Hotel in Windhoek. We were fortunate to find that we were the only guests there. Around 3 pm, the giraffes approached the lodge, allowing us the unique opportunity to feed them while enjoying delicious cake and tea alongside these special creatures. Afterwards, we spent the remainder of the day relaxing by the pool, and concluded our stay with a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the hotel’s chef.
DAY 9
Goodbye, Namibia
On our last night, we finally managed to get a good night’s sleep (more than five hours, which was a welcome change!), and enjoyed our final breakfast while watching the giraffes roam nearby.
Later, our shuttle arrived to bring us to the airport. We left Namibia against the backdrop of a beautiful sunset, carrying unforgettable memories of our adventure.
Things to know before traveling to Namibia
1. Early reservations are crucial
In Namibia, famous places like the Giraffe Hotel and lodges in Etosha National Park require booking about more than six months ahead. Travel agencies often book blocks of rooms well in advance, making it challenging for individual travelers to find availability. Booking through a travel agent can sometimes simplify this process.
2. Detailed itinerary planning
Namibia is a huge country with lots to see, and the attractions are far apart. Before you go, make sure to research and plan your days carefully. This way, you won’t be stuck driving for too long and you’ll have enough time to enjoy all the amazing places. It’s a good idea to also leave some extra time in your schedule just in case there are any unexpected delays or if you decide to take a detour. This helps keep your trip enjoyable and stress-free.
3. Strategic driving
In Namibia, the sun sets around 6:30 pm, so it’s best to do all your driving during the daylight. Try to keep your driving time to just 4-5 hours each day. Most roads in the country are gravel, so you need to drive slowly and carefully, often at speeds slower than the suggested 80 km/h because the road conditions can change. And don’t forget, in Namibia, you need to drive on the left side of the road.
4. Car rental tips
For driving on main roads like the road from Windhoek to Swakopmund, a regular car is fine. But for tougher areas like Sossusvlei or the UNESCO site at Twyfelfontein, you’ll need a 4×4. Without one, you’ll miss out on some of Namibia’s most incredible natural scenery.
5. Getting car insurance
Because of the rough roads, it’s wise to get full car insurance. This covers any damage and helps you feel more secure as you tackle challenging routes.
6. Preparing for desert travel
Much of Namibia is desert, and it’s common to go long stretches without seeing facilities like petrol stations or shops. Make sure to carry plenty of water, snacks, and fuel so you’re always prepared.
7. Best times to visit
The best times to visit Namibia are in September and October when the weather is great for wildlife viewing, but these are also the busiest months. July and August are cooler but still good. May and June are quieter and also have nice weather. Try to avoid the rainy season from November to April, as it can make travel difficult and limit your chances of seeing wildlife.
8. Financial tips
Credit cards are accepted in cities and at major lodges, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for tipping and smaller purchases. You can use both Namibian Dollars and South African Rand in Namibia.
9. Culinary experiences
Namibian food blends European cooking with African flavors and is always delicious. The food is safe and high quality everywhere.
10. What to wear
Namibia’s temperature varies a lot – hot during the day and sometimes cool at night. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on rough ground, and sandals when it’s hot.
11. Internet and electricity
Internet service isn’t great outside of big cities like Windhoek and Swakopmund. Buy a SIM card when you arrive, the rates are better outside the airport. For electricity, most places use European plug type C, but types D and M is more common.
12. Being respectful
In Namibia, kindness is valued highly. Sharing your food leftovers or tipping generously is appreciated and helps make a positive impact on local lives.
