This self-drive itinerary focuses on the best scenic landscapes of Namibia and at the same time, offers a unique cultural experience.
On arrival, you will spend a night in Windhoek before heading south to the famed Sossusvlei sand dunes. Quintessentially Namibia, these dunes are the most visually stunning part of the ancient Namib Desert, explorable from the air with hot air balloon rides and quad bikes and game drives on the ground. During your stay, we recommend that you climb Dune 45 and visit Sesriem Canyon, Hiddenvlei, Deadvlei and Big Daddy, the tallest dune in the area.
Without leaving the Namib desert, your next stop is Swakopmund, approximately 5 hour's drive from Sossusvlei. In Swakopmund you can expect palm-lined streets, gorgeous beaches, seaside promenades and a welcoming cooling breeze from the ocean. Swakopmund is a little oasis in the desert offering countless pursuits, including adventure activities such as sandboarding, parachuting, hot air ballooning, quad biking and deep sea fishing to name a few. With the feel of a small German village (Namibia was a German colony) you can also relax in one of the many restaurants, cafes, art galleries or museums.
It is now time to head further north into one of the most scenic areas of Namibia, Damaraland, a rugged, untamed region of contrasting landscapes. Expect prehistoric water courses, distant mountain ranges, wide open plains and deep gorges. The area is home to giraffe, ostrich, unique desert elephant, springbok and rare and critically endangered black rhino. Highlights of the area include The Brandberg, Namibia's highest mountain and home to the famous 'White Lady' Bushman painting; the Petrified Forest which is millions of years old and Twyfelfontein, a rocky outcrop of thousands of Bushmen engravings.
You will conclude your trip with a night in the small town of Omaruru at the base of the volcanic Erongo mountain range. Here there are yet more impressive geological sites and ancient rock painting sites to be explored.
Whatever your budget, our travel experts will work with you and give expert advice to make the very most of your available time and funds. They will guide you on the best time of year to travel, select the best value destinations and secure the little ‘add-ons’ that will make your tailor-made trip that extra bit special.
We are confident that we will offer highly competitive rates direct from our supplier network but we are always happy to compare with other quotes to ensure you secure the best value.
Catch your overnight flight from Philadelphia International Airport to Windhoek International
On arrival at Windhoek International Airport you will make your way to the car hire desk to collect your hire car. From here you will drive into the city for your first night.
Today you will take the drive to Sossusvlei & the Namib Desert.
Today you will take the drive to the Swakopmund.
Today you will take the drive to the Damaraland.
Today you will take the drive to the Central Highlands.
Today you will take the drive to Windhoek International Airport where you will drop off your hire car and connect with your onward flight home.