Namibia Discovery
Experience Overview
Travel to Namibia and discover one of the most sparsely populated countries on earth. Crossing the border from South Africa, you’ll travel along Namibia's beautiful coastline, to sand dunes, moonscapes and savanna grasslands teeming with wildlife. Namibia is a country of contrasts and a paradise for wilderness lovers! Scale dunes, walk through the desert, savour local dishes, and relax on seldom-visited beaches. Soak up African sunsets, birdwatch, go on game drives through Etosha National Park and do it all with a local leader armed with all the fascinating insights.
Highlights
- Dine in Lambert's Bay in an open-air restaurant, Muisbosskerm. National Geographic rated this amazing spot as having one of the 'Top Ten Sea Views to Dine For'.
- Spend a full day exploring Cape Town. With its world-renowned beaches, vibrant communities, and nearby winelands, it's the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban zest.
- Go birdwatching in Fish River Canyon and watch the African sunset that makes this place so much more than just one of the world's largest gorges.
- Enjoy plenty of time for seaside leisure in Swakopmund, amid the dramatic breakers of the Atlantic Ocean. Maybe visit the local markets or chill out on the beach.
- Etosha National Park is one of the best places in the world for wildlife spotting, and you'll enjoy a full day of game drives here, both in closed trucks and open-air 4WDs.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2920
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Comfortable
Transport: Overland vehicle,Canoe
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Overland Expedition
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: UBKN
Starts: Cape Town, Namibia
Finishes: Windhoek, Namibia
Duration: 14 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (13), Lunch (10), Dinner (9)Accommodation: Lodge (7 nights),Hotel (4 nights),Desert Camp (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5,321 ($380 /day)
Itinerary
Welkom! Welcome to Cape Town. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, there's plenty to see and do. You will have a free day to explore Cape Town with the help of your leader and fellow travel companions, so we recommend checking the weather forcaste and planning your activities in Cape Town accordingly. After the welcome meeting, get to know your new travel group over an optional dinner with your local leader.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Cape Town is a dynamic city renowned for its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. With a wealth of activities to choose from, you're free to craft your own adventure, guided by the expert advice of your leader and possibly some enthusiastic group members. Many experiences here are weather-dependent, such as a trip to the top of Table Mountain, which is best enjoyed on a clear day to take in the spectacular views. Rain or shine, whether it’s hiking, visiting wineries, or seeing the penguins, there's always something exciting to explore in Cape Town.
Optional Activities:
- Cape Town - Cape Peninsula and SUP Tour - Full Day (2100 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Robben Island Ferry & Table Mountain Tour - Full Day (1800 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Best of the Cape Combo Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Cape Peninsula & Kirstenbosch Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
- Cape Town - District Six & Bo-Kapp Cultural Tour - Half Day (965 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Winelands Tour - Full Day (1800 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Township Experience - Half Day (965 ZAR)
- Cape Town - City and Waterfront Tour - Half Day (1100 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Cape Malay Cooking Tour - Half Day (1200 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Winelands Tour - Half Day (1350 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Cape Peninsula & Table Mountain Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Harbour cruise (200 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Table Mountain Aerial Cable (380 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Table Mountain Hike (1600 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Robben Island tour (550 ZAR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Cape Town and travel along the west coast to the small seaside town of Lamberts Bay. The bay’s white beaches, lobsters and incredible wildlife earned the town its nickname ‘the diamond of the west coast’. When you arrive, enjoy a delicious feast at a local open-air restaurant, where the amazing ocean views will make for the perfect meal setting. After your seaside lunch, you'll head to Trawal to relax and soak in the views of wine farms and Cedarberg mountain range.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Say farewell to South Africa as you cross the border into Namibia. You should reach your destination on the banks of the Orange River by mid-afternoon. The border crossing and a few photo stops along the way can delay this arrival time. Orange River is the longest river in South Africa, running from high up in the Drakensberg Mountain range and into the Atlantic Ocean. The river is significant for its role in transporting diamonds, which in turn leaves deposits that are found along the Namibian coastline.
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
Spend a leisurely morning getting some extra rest, or unwind by the outdoor pool, soaking in the stunning views of the Orange River in morning light. If relaxing isn't your style, then head out on an optional canoe adventure along the Orange River. With a local guide, you’ll wind through the ancient Richtersveld Mountains in 2-man canoes. This is a slow-paced trip covering approximately 10 km and you’ll mostly be travelling downstream. Later on, venture to Fish River Canyon – one of the biggest canyons in the world. You’ll stop at various lookouts along the way – all great opportunities to catch this gigantic gorge on camera. Look out for some exotic birdlife while you’re here, including plovers, wagtails, hammerkops and herons. You might even catch a glimpse of a baboon or an antelope at dusk!
Included Activities:
- Fish River Canyon - Canyon entrance
Optional Activities:
- Orange River - Canoe trip (550 NAD)
Accommodation:
- Desert Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a long travel day, so grab a window seat if you can or play some road trip games with your fellow travellers. You’re heading to the eastern edge of the Namib Desert today – this region of the world's oldest desert is known for its array of geological features. Take in the diversity and sprawling beauty of the scenery as you drive, and when you arrive, relax at your desert lodge.
Accommodation:
- Desert Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll make an early morning visit to Sossusvlei, which lies at the end of an ancient riverbed. If you find yourself in the mood, a climb to the top of Dune 45 will reward you with unparalleled views. After breakfast, head to Dead Vlei – a clay pan well known for the iconic postcard-like images taken here by many. The pan is surrounded by some of the highest dunes in the world, including ‘Big Daddy’ and ‘Crazy Dune’. If you'd like to avoid a long walk in the sun, you can opt to pay extra for a 4WD transfer out to the entrance point. In the afternoon, visit Sesriem Gorge – a tranquil natural corridor you can walk through and explore. The canyon was caused by water erosion over thousands of years and the people who lived in the area used to pull buckets of water up from the depths with six knotted belts. Therefore, the canyon was named after the Afrikaans word ‘sesriem’, meaning ‘six belts’.
Included Activities:
- Sesriem - Sesriem Canyon Visit
- Sossusvlei - Dune 45
Accommodation:
- Desert Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart your desert lodge and travel across the Namib Desert today, ending up on the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean coastline. The drive goes through a diverse and colourful landscape, so keep your eyes on the windows and soak up the scenery. You'll see the incredible Kuiseb Canyon along the way, before arriving at the beachside town of Swakopmund, located on the Skeleton Coast.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy some free time in this gorgeous coastal oasis. Your accommodation is within walking distance of town, making optional activities easy to access. Maybe stroll along the beach, explore the open-air markets or visit the local museum. Your local leader will take you to the local activity centre if you’re not quite sure how you’d like to spend your day.
Optional Activities:
- Swakopmund - Swakopmund Museum (2 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Get off the beaten track and head into the heart of Damaraland. The ancient landscapes of the Kunene Region are ruggedly spectacular – think awesome sunsets and night skies filled with a multitude of dazzling stars. This part of Namibia is also known as Damaraland, as it’s the ancestral homeland of the enigmatic Damara people (whose exact origins remain unclear). This is also home to a small population of hardy desert adapted elephants and some super unique flora and fauna.
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
Spend the morning exploring the surrounding sights, including the Twyfelfontein Heritage Site, which boasts one of the largest concentrations of ancient rock engravings in southern Africa, and the Petrified Forest, home to 280-million-year-old fossilized tree trunks. You’ll be guided by locals at both sites, gaining fascinating insights into the area’s history. Visit the Living Museum of the Damara to experience traditional Damara culture, a rare opportunity to connect with one of Namibia's oldest communities. Stop at Burnt Mountain, a 200-meter-high hill at the base of a barren volcanic ridge. It was formed 80 million years ago by a lava flow that dramatically transformed the now desolate landscape. It can get hot, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. Spend the rest of the day back at the lodge, relaxing by the pool or enjoying a book in the shade.
Included Activities:
- Damaraland - Petrified Forest
- Damaraland - Twyfelfontein Bushman Paintings
- Damaraland - Burnt Mountain
- Damaraland - Living Museum
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart your lodge this morning and head towards Etosha National Park. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, so there are large herds of elephants, antelope and other herbivores here. When you arrive, you’ll head out on a short afternoon game drive in your truck. Keep your eyes peeled for the resident wildlife!
Included Activities:
- Etosha National Park - Overland Vehicle Game drives
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you'll enjoy a full-day game drive through Etosha National Park in open 4WD vehicles. Keep your eyes peeled for black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope, and the tiny Damara dik-dik. Game viewing in the park is relatively easy due to the man-made waterholes and the large, sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is hard to see through, but there are enough clearings, pans, and waterholes to allow for some sightings. Head back to the lodge after and enjoy a free evening.
Included Activities:
- Etosha National Park - 4x4 Vehicle Game Drive
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
From Etosha National Park, you’ll head to Windhoek – an old German town that’s now a cosmopolitan centre. The Germanic colonial architecture of this city contributes to its charming feel. You'll arrive in the late afternoon or early evening. Your trip comes to an end here, so no accommodation is included tonight. If you're staying in the area, the Tintenpalast (Ink Palace), the Christuskirche (church), the gymnasium and the Genossenschaftshaus are all well worth visiting. If you need to organise extra accommodation, speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
DEBORAH - Traveled, January 2024
I certainly feel that I have discovered the landscapes and peoples of Namibia on this amazing trip. Admore was a brilliant leader and Abel was a fantastic driver - negotiating Namibia’s roads requires skill.. The variety of activities and landscapes meant that each day was different,. The lodges were excellent and the food was abundant and tasty.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/08/2024
ro b - Traveled, November 2023
This trip is an awesome combination of nature, culture and activities, in a truly unique destination. It offers the iconic must-do's like the Dune 45 in Sossusvlei as well as some not yet discovered experiences like the Fish River Canyon and the chill, coastal vibe of Swakopmund. I came away with a much deeper understanding of the culture having visited some of the tribal people (Himba, Damara) along the way, as well as an exhilarating game drive in Etosha (including a rare cheetah sighting). The amazing dream team of our leader/guide (Spha) and driver (Goodman) significantly enhanced my experience on this trip - I don't say this lightly having travelled to 70+ countries in the past. I came back home with some special memories that will endure for a while. I don't understand the low ratings of this trip... if you read the essential trip information, you will have an amazing experience. Namibia is a destination that requires getting off-the-beaten path to get the most out of it and Intrepid does it really well.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/21/2023
Sturt - Traveled, November 2023
Namibia is a truly undiscovered treasure. My fellow travelers and I were fortunate to learn about the customs and traditions of this vastly explored land, often brought to life by our engaging and thoughtful guide and driver who made the (be forewarned) long bus rides both interesting and even enjoyable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/19/2023
Nicola - Traveled, October 2023
If you are looking for and abundance of wildlife, culture and adventure in Africa then look no further. This trip is truly exciting and memorable for all of the right reasons. Namibia is beautiful and welcoming and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Our (family) of Sandile and Dumis, went out of their way from the ‘get go’ to make this a truly magical and memorable experience. Would highly recommend topping and tailing with some time in Cape Town before and after your trip. We travelled in October which was very hot but quieter than at peak season. If you prefer it cooler, go earlier but it will be busier. We saw an abundance of birds, wildlife, culture and flowers throughout our trip and the history and terrain of the country is equally fascinating.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/14/2023
Jonathan - Traveled, September 2023
I am leaving Nambia with a feeling of complete fulfillment and gratitude. The itinerary was comprehensive and well paced - I will be eternally grateful to Intrepid, Bonnie, and Siya for a truky remarkable experience. I can't wait to get home and make all my friends jealous - and then recruit them for my next Intrepid adventure! Cheers!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/06/2023
Jenny - Traveled, September 2023
An absolutely fabulous trip! Whilst the roads were frequently bumpy and the journeys often long, the rewards were more than worth it. The accommodation was amazing and there were plenty of food options. Pack less than you think- you really don’t need much.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/24/2023
Richard - Traveled, August 2023
Had a fantastic experience travelling through Namibia. Accommodation and food was of a very high standard. Roads were bumpy at times but never unmanageable in Chris the driver's capable hands! Tour leader Nathi was also excellent, and Intrepid continues to deliver great trips wherever I've travelled with them.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/31/2023
Greg & Joan - Traveled, August 2023
There were very long days with corrugated roads but the accommodation and experiences more than made up for it. Highly recommended but it’s definitely not for the faint hearted.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/25/2023
Alexander - Traveled, May 2023
It's been 4 months but I still reflect on this incredible experience: the animals, the landscapes, but above all, the people you meet on the way. Namibia was unlike anywhere else, and I recommend everyone go at least once. The vistas in particular are unforgettable: at times it felt like we were walking on the moon.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/28/2023
A - Traveled, May 2023
Namibia is exquisite. Yes there are long driving days but I didn't mind, there were always interesting things to look at and various stops and opportunities to see daily life in remote areas. This was my first comfort tour so a bit more expensive but it was almost all inclusive, lovely lodges, activities and meals.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/11/2023
Silvija - Traveled, May 2023
There is a vastness in Namibia which is mesmerising, though this means that there are often long travel days over extremely corrugated roads. While there are not as many animals to be seen as in Botswana, the thrill of discovery is just as high. I absolutely loved it. Excellent driver, super leader and a fantastic group -what more could you want? Comfort level is definitely worth it. Excellent accommodation and food.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2023
Rupert - Traveled, January 2023
Great trip-you will experience such wonderful sights as you travel through this beautiful part of the world-stunning.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/01/2023
Katriona - Traveled, January 2023
This was an exceptionally good tour. It is not for the faint hearted as the drives are long and can be tiring, . However the rewards are many. The wild and desolate scenery is truly magnificent and breathtaking. The quality of the accommodation , often in very remote places was of a really high standard. The trips informative and interesting. A wonderful trip. 5 * from me.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/11/2023
Allison - Traveled, October 2022
Namibia is not at all what you expect, the countryside constantly changes on your adventures. One minute you can see where the giants have played with rocks like marbles and the next you are viewing a Martian landscape. It is a must to add to your travel wish list.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/02/2022
Elizabeth - Traveled, September 2022
This was a very varied tour. I wasn’t sure if I’d like a trip that was safari every day, so I chose this (also because I love desert landscapes). This was perfect: something new every day and a taste of safari (turns out 2 days is enough for me). Dune 45 and Dead Vlei were astonishing. Driver Abel went above and beyond! The hotels were surprisingly good, as was the food, although not much choice sometimes) and hard for those with food restrictions).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2022
Harold - Traveled, August 2023
The itineraries for the Namibia and Botswana trips my wife and I took were very good. We saw a lot of great places and had a lot of very special experiences. The Etosha National Park game drives and river cruise were the best wildlife experiences I’ve ever had, and I’ve had a lot. The only negative in these trips is that there was a lot of driving in a vehicle that was not as good as it could have been. With a better van, that includes better suspension and air-conditioning, these trips will be close to perfect.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2022
Ashish - Traveled, July 2022
A good trip with an excellent tour leader. Some disorganisation from intrepid that resulted in a wasted day and missed hotel stay. Overall worthwhile and enjoyable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/06/2022
Fatma - Traveled, July 2024
The trip to Namibia was excellent. We lived the life in Namibia personally. Swaokupmund and Etosha park, the dessert, plane tour over the dessert were my favorites. Also walking in the canyons and seeing the ancient cravings were very good. The team leader was excellent with much enthusiasm. He answered all our questions. The driver was very good and friendly. There was a good team feeling.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/31/2024
Avery - Traveled, June 2024
This was a trip of a lifetime! Tshepo was a wonderful guide, and our driver Mr. Chris handled the tricky roads very well. The itinerary is accurate and I left with so many special memories. Namibia is honestly just as you picture it to be. The accommodations were beautiful and food was tasty and plentiful even for a vegetarian.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/11/2024
Leonie - Traveled, May 2024
It's a very good Tour to get an overview over the whole country in just about two weeks. Even the long drives where interesting, due to changing landscapes and multiple stops on the road. The Food was very good and even as vegetarians we found lots of different and delicious things. We will always remember Shadrack, our driver, and his funny and lovely character.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/31/2024
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