Off The Beaten Track Namibia

This unique itinerary takes you off the beaten track to explore some of the lesser visited, but no less extraordinary regions of Namibia. This self-drive trip is perfect for the more adventurous traveller as you search for elusive desert-adapted wildlife, hike some incredibly scenic trails, and simply enjoy being away from the crowds.

1. Fly into Windhoek

2. Days 1-2: Windhoek

   Your journey begins with a night in Windhoek where a hire car will be delivered to your guesthouse in the city. Self-drive is an excellent way to explore what Namibia has to offer, giving you the chance to keep off the beaten track, avoid the usual tourist spots and really experience something new and unforgettable.

   Accommodation: Olive Grove (1 night)

3. Days 2-4: Swakopmund

   Your Namibian adventure begins with a couple of nights at Pelican Point Lodge at Walvis Bay located 30 minutes south of the coastal town of Swakopmund. This is a location as different as you can imagine to the dunes of the south. The lodge is situated on a remote peninsula, at the base of lighthouse, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the lagoon of Walvis Bay on the other. An absolute must for any keen photographer, it's an incredibly unique setting in a luxurious boutique property. There is also plenty of wildlife here with whales and dolphin frequently spotted from the deck, and thousands of seals to be found if you take a walk down the peninsula.

   Accommodation: Pelican Point Lodge (2 nights)

4. Days 4-6: Damaraland

   From Walvis Bay you will head north to Damaraland to Camp Kipwe in the Twyfelfontein Conservancy. Built into the rocky surrounds Camp Kipwe blends seamlessly into the unique Damaraland landscapes. This area is known for its desert adapted elephants and Camp Kipwe offers the chance to try and find these elusive creatures on a nature drive. During a stay you should also head out on a self-guided nature walk to experience first-hand how vast and immense this area is. A visit to the Twyfelfontein ancient rock engravings should not be missed.

   Accommodation: Camp Kipwe (2 nights)

5. Days 6-9: Damaraland

   Continuing your remote adventure, enjoy a few nights on the private Etendeka Reserve combining a night at Etendeka Mountain camp followed by a couple of nights at their walking camp, Etendeka Trails for the ultimate off the beaten track experience. Both located in the foothills of the Grooberg Massif, you'll find yourself surrounded by towering mountains and deep valleys, all just waiting to be explored both on foot and in open safari vehicles. There's great desert adapted wildlife to be found here such as desert-elephants and lion, also commonly sighted here are cheetah, oryx and black rhino, making it a great destination for those looking for unique Namibian wildlife. Evenings are spent round the fire and the days exploring savannah, mountain trails, canyons, gorges and even caves. Tracking wildlife is a big part of the experience, along with watching the wildlife in their natural surroundings without the interference of game vehicles, other tourists or anything that disturbs the surrounding environment.

   Accommodation: Etendeka Mountain Camp (3 nights)

6. Days 9-10: Central Highlands

   Finally, to cap it all off you make your way back south east in the direction of Windhoek stopping off for your final night in the Erongo Mountains at Erongo Wilderness Lodge, perched within a true wilderness reserve, home to endemic bird species and fabulous walking opportunities. With few other lodges and tourists for miles, relax and unwind in this charming lodge before returning to Windhoek in the morning.

   Accommodation: Erongo Wilderness Lodge (1 night)

7. Fly home from Windhoek

• Bushmen Art at Twyfelfontein

  Damaraland is home to one of the oldest tribes in the country, the San, and a visit to Twyfelfontein, where you can see their art, is a highlight.

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• Sandwich Harbour Tour

  Explore the remote and wild coastline south of Swakopmund and discover the dramatic rolling dunes and lagoons teeming with bird life at Sandwich Harbour.

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• Walking Safaris in Damaraland

  Tracking wildlife on foot and sneaking up to big game is one of those unforgettable experiences that will live with you long after your safari. Damaraland is a great place to explore on foot, get out with your expert guide and experience it!

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Swakopmund, Damaraland & Ongava