Desert Dunes and Magical Moons
ITINERARY

1-2
Windhoek
City
It's time for your African exploration to begin! You'll depart the UK on Day 1, on a comfortable international flight to Hosea Kutako International Airport in Namibia. Sit back, enjoy the flight and drift off to sleep dreaming of all the amazing experiences to come.

The next morning the real adventure begins, as you land in Namibia and arrive in the city of Windhoek to pick up your rental car. The afternoon is then free to spend as you please – whether that's exploring the city or winding down after your journey. You'll be spending the night at The Olive Grove – conveniently located near the heart of the city, yet peacefully quiet, this boutique and stylish guest house is a perfect introduction to African hospitality. Why not spend the afternoon in the tranquil grounds and take a dip in the pool?

THINGS TO DO
Windhoek walking safari
Windhoek walking safari
Full-day experience
Track cheetahs on foot with experienced guides at the Okonjima Nature Reserve.

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3-4
Sossusvlei & Sesriem
Desert
The next morning, after enjoying a hearty breakfast at the guesthouse, you'll hop into your comfortable car and depart for the Namib Naukluft National Park. This well-known park encompasses part of the famous Namib Desert – and is home to the impressive Red Dunes. A half-day drive through diverse African landscapes will bring you to the park, where you'll have the afternoon to unwind and enjoy the scenic surroundings of the Moon Mountain Lodge. Luxury tented accommodation nestled at the foot of the Naukluft Mountains will be your home for the next two nights, where you'll feel truly connected to this wild landscape. All rooms feature their own private splash pool so you'll be able to refresh after your day's activities, and dinner is taken on the open-air deck where you can stargaze to your heart's content – can you spot the Southern Cross?

On your second day in the park, you'll have the chance to venture out early to arrive at the red dune belt just after sunrise – in perfect time to experience this stunning landscape in the magical morning light. It's a memory that will stay with you for the rest of your trip and far beyond. Before the rising sun brings on the heat of the day, you can climb to the top of the dunes for a view like no other. Later you'll have the option to explore Sossusvlei and the ancient Sesriem Canyon – take a walk through the canyon and marvel at the amazing natural rock formations.

THINGS TO DO
Sossusvlei & Sesriem Canyon excursion
Sossusvlei & Sesriem Canyon excursion
Half-day experience
Visit the world-famous Red Dunes of Namibia and have a go at scaling one.

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5-6
Swakopmund
Beach
The next day it's time to hit the road once more, saying a fond farewell to the Namib Desert, and an excited hello to the beach! A pleasant half-day drive will bring you to the coastal resort of Swakopmund. Sandwiched between the wild ocean and the red desert sands, this popular beachside city enchants visitors thanks to its captivating contrasts. Fresh Atlantic air breathes through the intriguing resort that boasts both German colonial architecture and vibrant African culture.

The Delight Hotel will be your base during your stay and you'll soon fall in love with its colorful boutique decor, mind-blowing breakfasts, and friendly staff. You have the afternoon and the entire next day to explore the area – will you take a surf lesson, explore the historical old streets and buildings, or kayak amongst wild seals? If you're struggling to decide, a stroll along the oceanfront promenade will be sure to blow away the cobwebs and inspire!

THINGS TO DO
Quad Bike Adventure
Quad Bike Adventure
Half-day experience
Join a scenic quad-bike drive that combines the landscapes, animals and the life of the Topnaar people.

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Catamaran Cruise
Catamaran Cruise
Half-day experience
Embark on an educational sightseeing tour onboard a catamaran in search of the marine Big Five.

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Swakopmund Living Desert Tour
Swakopmund Living Desert Tour
Half-day experience
This unique 4x4 drive adventure takes you into the Dunes of Swakopmund.

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7-8
Damaraland
Activity & Adventure
On Day 7 it's time again to move on to the next chapter of your Namibian adventure. A shorter morning drive today should get you to the area of Damaraland by midday. A region famous for unusual rock formations, and prehistoric paintings and engravings, it is also home to Namibia's highest mountain "The Brandberg" – also known as "the fire mountain" thanks to the extraordinary color that the setting sun paints onto the mountain ranges as if the mountain was on fire. 

Your home during your stay is Vingerklip Lodge in one of the beautiful thatched bungalows which are spread out along a hillside. The sheltered sundowner veranda has breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and is an ideal spot to watch the magnificent Namibian sunset. Enjoy dinner at the lodge as you watch the setting sun slowing drop below the wide horizon.

On your second day in the area, there is the opportunity to follow guided walking or mountain biking trails which will lead you through this breathtaking scenery. There is much to discover about this ancient land, so why not visit the Damara Living Museum, or take in the primitive rock art at Twyfelfontein.

THINGS TO DO
Rhino Tracking
Rhino Tracking
Half-day experience
Head off in search of rhinos with an experienced guide and tracker.

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9-10
Etosha National Park
Wildlife
After replenishing with the hotel's impressive breakfast, a drive of just a couple of hours will bring you to the rugged expanse of the Etosha National Park – known by locals as the "Place of Legends". You'll be staying for the first two nights at Etosha Safari Lodge which overlooks the rugged yet majestic landscape of the mopane woodland. You can spot wild animals from the comfort of the lodge's elevated deck. The afternoon is all yours to soak up the peaceful atmosphere, take in the impressive scenery, or cool off in the pool.

On your second day in the park, an optional full-day guided game drive with a knowledgable guide will help you spot lions, elephants, rhinos and even, if you're lucky, the ever-elusive leopard. Today is another chance to uncover the magic of Etosha and create memories that will last a lifetime.

THINGS TO DO
Guided Etosha Game Drive
Guided Etosha Game Drive
Half-day experience
Enjoy some spectacular game-viewing around the waterholes in Etosha National Park.

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11-12
Etosha National Park
Wildlife
On Day 11, you'll drive yourself through the park to the romantic Namutoni Resort, arriving by lunchtime. The camp is built around a historic German fort and overlooks the King Nehale watering hole. The journey to the new camp is itself a safari drive, and you'll be viewing wild animals through your very own window! After a rejuvenating lunch on your arrival, in the afternoon you'll be treated to a guided game drive – this will be in a special open-air vehicle for unsurpassed wildlife spotting opportunities. After all that adventure, there's time to unwind on the viewing deck or at the cozy bar with a sundowner before dinner.

Your second day at the resort will allow you to relax and again take a back seat as you join a small 10-person group on a full-day game drive through the park. Absorb the beauty of the sun-drenched land as you scan the horizon for an elephant herd or a hunting lioness. With nothing to think about other than observing wildlife up close and personal, the safari is simultaneously relaxing and exhilarating. Dinner is served on the lodge deck, under a spectacular dome of stars.

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13
Windhoek
Travel
On your last day in Namibia, it's time to head back to Windhoek airport in time for your international flight home. The half-day drive will take you via the Wood Carvers Market in Okahandja – why not pick up some last-minute souvenirs of this once-in-a-lifetime trip? The memories of your experiences will be your real souvenirs however, and your trip to magical Namibia is sure to remain a treasured memory for many years to come.