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Rental car round trip - Namibia

Into the Wild

Highlights

  • Visit the dunes of Sossusvlei

  • Contribute to the protection of Namibian culture and nature

  • Go on safari in Damaraland on foot and by jeep

  • Exclusive lodges and hotels

  • Learn about the work of the AfriCat Foundation and Save the Rhino Trust projects.

Description

Namibia is one of the few countries that has nature conservation firmly anchored in its constitution. However, few Namibia travelers are granted behind-the-scenes insights into one of the leading conservation organizations. On this trip, you will have the chance to get up close and personal with the AfriCat Foundation and the Save the Rhino Trust. They dedicate their entire existence and efforts to the protection of Namibian culture and nature. In the foreground is the protection of endangered species, such as rhinos, as well as the culture of the inhabitants.

Destination

Africa

Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary - NamibRand Nature Reserve - Swakopmund - Damaraland - Etosha National Park

May to December - dry season: In the dry season it is not too hot and it does not rain. During this time, temperatures are at least 25° Celsius during the day with bright blue skies. At night, especially from May to August, temperatures drop sharply and it can sometimes get as cold as 0°.

End of December to April - rainy season: Namibia's nature exerts a special charm on travelers during the first four months of the year. Numerous plants are in bloom and the animals are much more active.

Upon arrival at Windhoek International Airport, pick up your rental car and drive to Na'ankuse Wildlife Reserve. This organization plays a fundamental role in the ecological conservation of endangered wildlife in Namibia. The reserve is known for assisting in translocations of big cats and endangered animals, such as rhinos. Your visit will support conservation efforts at the nearby Wildlife Conservation. The facility takes in injured animals that cannot be safely returned to the wild. In the afternoon, you can optionally join a bush walk with Bushmen and learn interesting facts about their culture, tradition and survival skills.

In the evening a delicious dinner awaits you at Na'ankuse Lodge.

Travel time Windhoek Airport - Na'ankuse Wildlife Reserve: approx. 50 minutes / approx. 40 km

2 nights at Na'ankuse Lodge****+ full board in Standard Room, Na'ankuse Wildlife Reserve, Namibia

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Enjoy a hearty breakfast before joining Marlice van Vuuren, owner and initiator of the project, on a tour of the Na'ankuse Game Reserve (optional). With a little luck, you'll catch a glimpse of the animals and learn more about the background of the project. Spend time with tame cheetahs, walk with caracals through the bush and watch food preparation for the animals living here.

Among other things, you can see lions and leopards on the grounds.

After breakfast, your itinerary takes you across gravel plains and dry riverbeds to the NamibRand Nature Reserve. A place of distinct elegance and comfort has been created here for the discerning traveler, from where the secrets of the desert can be explored. In the afternoon you can join a nature tour and in the evening enjoy the legendary African sunset. The Namib Desert stretches along the Atlantic Ocean and combines different landscapes. There is no place in the world where you can capture so many different moods in such a deserted landscape as in the NamibRand Nature Reserve.

Travel time Na'ankuse Wildlife Reserve - Namib Naukluft Park: approx. 6 ,5 hours / approx. 430 km

2 nights at WolweDans Dunes Lodge**** with full board and activities in a standard chalet, Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia

In the early morning, an excursion to Sossusvlei awaits you. Sossusvlei boasts the highest dunes in the world and is also a World Heritage Site. The huge, ocher-colored sand dunes of Sossusvlei offer an unforgettable panorama, which you can enjoy during a hot air balloon ride (optional). Human footprints here seem like ant trails to nowhere. The white vleis of the area contrast sharply with the red sand and endless blue sky. Animals and plants that rely on the desert mists at night find refuge from the swelling midday heat in the sand and under the weathered camel thorn trees.

Enjoy the heavenly silence in this fascinating landscape. The fact that the desert is really alive is made clear by an excursion on which you will encounter a number of large and small animals. The unique combination of authentic Africa with its bright blue sky, the sublime beauty of the Namib Desert and the mysterious civilization of the San natives, makes a stay in this wonderful part of the world a pleasant relaxation for body and soul.

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Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your lodge before departing for your next accommodation. Little Kulala is located in the 27,000-hectare Kulala Wilderness Reserve and promises magnificent views of the red sand dunes of Sossusvlei. Freshen up briefly in your room and get to know the fascinating surroundings with a variety of exciting activities. For example, how about a guided hike through the reserve or a quad bike tour?

Travel time WolweDans Dune Lodge - Little Kulala: approx. 1.5 hours / approx. 80 km

1 overnight stay at Little Kulala with full board and activities in a suite, Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia

After breakfast you will leave the unique dune landscape and continue through the Kuiseb Canyon to Swakopmund. This small coastal town is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert. The palm-lined streets, a beach promenade, flower gardens, half-timbered houses and colonial architecture add to the charm and relaxed atmosphere of this town.

The next day, take a catamaran to Walvis Bay. You will visit Namibia's only deep sea port, observe seabirds and fur seals, and if you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins. Indulge in oysters, canapés and iced sparkling wine from South Africa on this relaxing boat trip. Of course, non-alcoholic beverages are also available.

After the visit you will drive back to Swakopmund where the rest of the day is at your leisure.

Travel time Little Kulala - Strand Hotel: approx. 5 hours / approx. 380 km

2 nights at Strand Hotel**** with full board in Standard Room, Swakopmund, Namibia

Along the coast your journey leads north - across the vast plains of the Namib Desert through the small mining town of Uis and past the impressive Brandberg massif into the interior. You will reach Damaraland with its varied landscapes, its rugged mountains and its almost deserted villages. Damaraland is one of the last regions in Africa where Hartmann's mountain zebra, giraffe, springbok, black rhino and desert elephant live in the wild.

Your accommodation today is located in the Twyfelfontein Game Reserve between huge granite boulders.

Travel time Strand Hotel - Mowani Mountain Camp: approx. 4.5 hours / approx. 330 km

1 overnight at Mowani Mountain Camp***** with full board in Superior View Room, Damaraland, Namibia

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Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before continuing towards northern Damaraland to the famous Desert Rhino Camp. Here you will experience first-hand how the Save the Rhino Trust organization carries out its important work to conserve and protect the endangered rhino. Your exclusive camp is located right in the heart of northern Damaraland in a minimalist and partially untouched landscape. In the evening you will be briefed and informed by a Save the Rhino ranger about their work.

2 nights at Desert Rhino Camp**** with full board and activities in a Standard Tent, Damaraland, Namibia.

Today you will spend in the concession area in search of the desert rhinos. Depending on the terrain where the rhinos are currently located, the tour will be conducted by vehicle or on foot. Get first hand information and insight into the unique flora and fauna. End the evening with a delicious meal under the stars.

Your journey today takes you to the border of the Etosha National Park to the Ongava Game Reserve. The private safari lodge is considered an insider tip among Namibian connoisseurs and is located in the middle of a wildlife-rich private nature reserve. Refresh yourself in the pool and watch the animals at the well-visited waterhole. In the afternoon you will take part in a bush walk where you will learn more about the conservation measures of the Ongava Game Reserve from your ranger and, with a bit of luck, see some animals that you have not been able to see so far.

1 night at Ongava Lodge***** with full board and activities in standard chalet, Ongava Game Reserve, Namibia.

After a leisurely breakfast overlooking the waterhole, you will take a guided safari through Etosha National Park, which was established in 1907. The heart of the 22,270 km² animal paradise is the approximately 5,000 km² vegetation-free salt pan, which fills with life-giving water during rainy periods. The enormous animal wealth includes over a hundred species of mammals, including cheetahs, leopards, lions, black rhinos, giraffes, the rare black-nosed impala and the famous Etosha elephants, which are said to be the largest specimens of their species.

Travel time Ongava Lodge - Onguma Game Reserve: approx. 4 hours / approx. 271 km

2 nights full board accommodation at Onguma Tented Camp**** on day 12. and full board and activities on day 13 in Luxury Tent, Etosha National Park, Namibia

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Your journey today takes you further south to Okonjima. This name means "place of baboons" in Herero and is a family business as well as the home of the "AfriCat Foundation". Activities include leopard and cheetah viewing as well as a highly informative bushman's walk. Just a few meters from the lodge, you can observe birds and small animals from several vantage points. At the AfriCat Foundation you will get to know lions, leopards and cheetahs up close and have the opportunity to take fantastic photographs.

Travel time Omguma - Okonjima: approx. 6 hours / approx. 390 km

2 nights at Okonjima Bush Camp****+ with full board and activities in Luxury Bush Chalet, Waterberg Plateau, Namibia

Today marks the beginning of the end of your trip. After breakfast you will drive back to Windhoek, drop off your rental car and board your return flight. We are happy to organize an extension of your stay on site or in another region. Just contact us!

Travel time Okonjima - Windhoek: approx. 3 hours / approx. 267 km

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Na'ankuse Lodge****+, Na'ankuse Wildlife Reserve, Namibia (2 nights)

The lodge, whose proceeds go in full to charity projects, offers modern luxury using natural materials such as wood and stone. The dining area, bar and large swimming pool overlook the vast savannah and a riverbed.

Projects supported by the Foundation include improving the living conditions of the San culture and various species conservation projects.

The lodge's rooms are designed with African design elements and offer especially ample space for privacy. Each of the detached thatched chalets has an open-plan bathroom, separate toilet, air-conditioning, etc.

WolweDans Dunes Lodge****, Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia (2 nights)

This luxury lodge is situated on a wooden platform in the middle of the NamibRand Nature Reserve. Each of the nine chalets is a combination of wood and tent and is equipped with a fixed roof. In addition, the front can be opened - enjoy magnificent views of the red sand dunes and surrounding mountains from here. In your chalet you will also find a private terrace and an en suite bathroom. The main building offers two lounges, a fire pit, a library, a wine cellar and two dining rooms. After an exciting day in the desert, unwind by the inviting outdoor pool.

Little Kulala, Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia (1 night)

In the 27,000-hectare private Kulala Wilderness Reserve, Little Kulala Lodge awaits you. This accommodation borders the Namib Naukluft National Park and promises magnificent views of the red sand dunes of Sossusvlei.

The eleven chalets, also known as kulalas, were built on a raised platform and offer a private plunge pool and indoor and outdoor showers. If you wish, you can even spend a night on the roof under the stars. Other amenities include a double bed, a sofa corner, a minibar, and coffee and tea facilities.

In the main building, you'll find a library, wine cellar, small boutique, lounge, pool, and dining room.

Strand Hotel****, Swakopmund, Namibia (2 nights)

Located right on the beach, this luxurious property is the perfect place to explore the beautiful surroundings.

All 125 rooms offer gorgeous views of the sea or surrounding gardens. Floor-to-ceiling windows intensify the view. Rooms also feature a private bathroom with separate toilet, tea and coffee station, minibar, hairdryer, TV, Wi-Fi, telephone, and air conditioning. In the three exclusive restaurants and bars you will be pampered with only the finest. Whether fresh fish and seafood, home-brewed beer or exotic cocktails - here no wishes remain unfulfilled.

Mowani Mountain Camp*****, Damaraland, Namibia (1 night)

Situated between huge granite rocks in the south of Damaraland, this luxurious camp promises plenty of tranquility in a unique atmosphere. In addition, this accommodation is the ideal starting point for an excursion to Twyfelfontein. In total, Mowani Mountain Camp has 13 rooms located on raised platforms, two luxury suites and seven campsites. The African-style main building houses a restaurant, bar and lounge.

Desert Rhino Camp****, Damaraland, Namibia (2 nights)

The camp is run in conjunction with the Save the Rhino organization. Here you will get an impression of how the Rhino Trust tries to preserve the ecological balance and the pristine nature of this region. At the same time the camp supports wildlife conservation.

The camp can accommodate a maximum of 16 people. Each of the 8 Meru tents has an en-suite bathroom. Trained conservation guides accompany you on selected activities. Rare black rhino, mountain zebra, oryx antelope or Angola giraffe can be spotted here. In the main area there is a large dining area, a comfortable lounge with leather armchairs and sitting areas and a fire pit.

Ongava Lodge*****, Onguma Game Reserve, Namibia (1 Overnight)

On the southern border of Etosha National Park, the luxurious Ongava Lodge awaits you right in front of a waterhole. You'll stay in one of 14 chalets, all with en-suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers. The in-house terrace offers magnificent views of the surrounding Mopane Savanna and the waterhole, which attracts numerous animals. Fresh meals are served to you either in the dining area overlooking the waterhole or under the open sky. Cool off in the outdoor pool after an eventful safari and enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar. Optional activities at Ongava Lodge include bird watching, game drives and bush walks.

Onguma Tented Camp****, Etosha National Park, Namibia (2 nights)

"Onguma" - that means in the Herero language the "place you don't want to leave" and the camp holds the best arguments for that.

The rooms are bright and modern with African elements. In the large main house you will find the dining room and lounge overlooking an impressive waterhole, from where you can watch the lively animal life.

Okonjima Bush Camp****+, Waterberg Plateau, Namibia (2 nights)

The lodge is home to the AfriCat Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of rescued, cared for and rehabilitated big cats.

Okonjima Bush Camp has eight thatched, open-plan chalets that provide an African ambience. The tent walls can be rolled up - enjoy 100% pure bush feeling.

Duration of the trip: 16 days / 15 nights

Included

  • 15 nights accommodation in the above mentioned lodges and hotels
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Activities according to itinerary
  • Meet & Greet at Windhoek airport
  • Rental car - Europcar Namibia Toyota Fortuner or similar (incl. early booking special if booked until 30 days before arrival)
  • Tourism fee & taxes

Not included

  • International flights
  • Meals and drinks that are not included in the package
  • Excursions and activities not included in the package
  • All entrance fees
  • Visas, if required
  • Personal expenses such as minibar and tips
  • Insurances

Services & Notes

  • Please consult the entry requirements for minors in Namibia.

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