Take this classic self-drive around Namibia’s ‘northern circuit’, and enjoy some fantastic wildlife-viewing and photographic opportunities.
This superb route provides a comprehensive overview of the country's northern highlights and allows you to experience some of the country's stunning scenery and unique wildlife in the Damaraland, as well as spending time in the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, and two days at the AfriCat Foundation to learn about the cheetah and leopard conservation there.
Being self drive you have the complete freedom to stop off at sites en route whenever you like – it’s your trip!
Suggested Itinerary
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Day 1:
Depart the UK
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Day 2:
Arrive Windhoek
On arrival at Windhoek international airport pick up your rental vehicle. Once you have completed the paperwork, you can drive into central Windhoek and check in to your accommodation. The rest of the day is free to relax and explore the city.
Accommodation: Casa Piccolo Guesthouse, 1-night
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Days 3-4
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Drive to Okonjima; vehicle safaris
This morning you depart the capital and drive north along the main highway (tarmac) to Okonjima, two to three hours' drive (the last 24 kilometres are on gravel track). This afternoon and the following day you can take advantage of the various wildlife activities on offer, and learn all about the work of AfriCat Foundation.
Accommodation: Okonjima Main Camp, 2-nights
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Days 5-8
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Etosha National Park; vehicle safaris
Continue your drive northwards via Ojitwarongo and Tsumeb to Etosha National Park.
While at Etosha, we suggest you stay at two different locations: the first two nights to be spent at the eastern side of the park, followed by two nights further to the west. This provides a comprehensive overview of the park and allows you to explore different areas of this remarkable wildlife sanctuary at your leisure. Alternatively you can book guided game drives at your accommodation.
Accommodation: Onguma Bush Camp, 2-nights / Okaukuejo Rest Camp, 2-nights
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Days 9-10
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Drive to Damaraland; see ancient rock engravings
This morning it's time to leave behind the wonders of Etosha for the impressive landscape and rugged valleys of the Damaraland Highlands, as you make your way south to Twyfelfontein on gravel roads - a drive of roughly 330 kilometres (or five to six hours).
Accommodation: Grootberg Lodge, 2-nights
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Days 11-12
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Drive to Erongo; vehicle safaris
This morning you continue south-east, via Khorixas and Brandberg to your next lodge, just outside Omaruru. There is plenty to see en route, or you can opt to push on and enjoy some down time on arrival.
Accommodation: Ai Aiba Lodge 2-nights
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Day 13:
Drive to Windhoek & depart
Depending on the departure time of your flight, you should have most of the day to drive back to Windhoek. You can stop in downtown Windhoek to do some last minute shopping or visit museums before heading the final 45 kilometres out to the international airport and a return overnight flight via Johannesburg.
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Day 14:
Arrive UK
Please note: At certain times of year a 4 wheel drive is recommended.
