Desert, Delta and
Victoria Falls

Day 1: Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek

Arrive in Windhoek and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure with no guided activities. Overnight at Hotel Thule or similar. No meals are included today.

Windhoek

As any traveller to Namibia will attest, water is at a premium is this driest of southern African states and the origins of Windhoek, typically, are to be found it the presence of springs in the vicinity. In 1849, Jan Jonker Afrikaner founded a settlement here at the ‘Fire Water’ spring which can still be seen today.  Standing at 5250 feet, the city was once dominated by the pristine white-washed 130-year-old fortress of Alte Feste, now a museum. The city took centuries to establish itself successfully and its finest buildings generally date from its flowering in the early 1900s – Christus Kirche is perhaps the finest of the religious architecture and its three German ‘castles’, the Heinitzburg, today a hotel and restaurant, the Schwerinsburg and the Sanderburg. This make for a city which is modern, clean and yet fiercely proud of its development. The North Korean (yes!) built ‘Heroes Memorial Acre’ is a tribute to those who fought for Namibia’s 1990 independence from South Africa and is worth a visit simply for its uniqueness. The modern culture of Windhoek is now very much to the fore: tours of the Namibia Craft Centre in the old breweries building offers fascinating examples of Namib local skills, Katutura township is a bustling 1950s suburb which has museums and cultural centres devoted to explaining why this place (literally ‘place we do not want to live’) is so symbolic of the struggle against apartheid, and Joe’s Beerhouse has become an iconic restaurant and alehouse with vibrant local music and delicious food such as its legendary alligator steak.

Day 2: Windhoek – Sesriem area, Namib Desert (driving time approx. 4 hours)

This morning you will be collected at your Windhoek accommodation.  Leave Windhoek travelling via the gravel roads and the Khomas Hochland mountain range, this area is one of farming communities till you reach the end of the escarpment (crossing the Tropic of Capricorn) where you descend via the Remhoogte Pass to the settlement of Solitaire.  The journey features an unfolding dramatic landscape with many opportunities for photo stops. After arrival the afternoon is free, or there’s time for one of the lodge’s optional activities, such as an afternoon dune drive. Overnight at Desert Quiver Camp or similar (BLD).

The Namib Desert

Arguably the oldest desert in the world (approximately 80 million years of arid climate), the Namib is a vast stretch of wilderness that stretches 2,000 miles from Angola to the Kalahari in the south. The lack of rainfall is stark: some places only receive less than a quarter of an inch a year; the wettest areas receive a dismal 8 inches a year. This hostile environment has thrown up an ocean of dunes from the cold Atlantic coast to the eastern mountains and has made it virtually uninhabitable for humans, excepting a few small pastoral tribes such as the Obatjimba Herero, the Topnaar Nama and the Ovahimba. However, despite its seemingly barren landscape, there is more to the Namib than simply a spectacular landscape of dry valleys, titanic sand dunes and the rocky magnificence of its mountains: the aridity has rendered the area a botanical island, with a high level of endemicity. Mountain zebras and Gemsbok are more visible examples, but many arthropods such as the Namib Desert beetle are also unique to the region as a much of the flora to be seen there.

Day 3: Dead Vlei, Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon

A pre-dawn start is essential this morning as we want to catch the soft light of the sunrise on the desert. After passing through Sesriem, the gateway to the dunes, we head into the heart of the dune field, reaching Sossusvlei on foot, trekking the last 5 km through the dunes.  Landscape photo opportunities abound in the cool of the morning, with dawn’s soft light first illuminating the dunes from crest down the back slope, then blazing orange everywhere, creating a powerful contrasting vista across the whole desert.  We spend the morning in and around Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, also visiting dune 45.  Sossusvlei is where you will find the iconic red sand dunes of the Namib.  The clear blue skies contrast with the giant red sand dunes to make this one of the natural wonders of Africa and a photographer’s heaven. As the day wears on we return to Sesriem for lunch, escaping the heat of the afternoon.  As the day cools off in the late afternoon, we will take a short excursion to the Sesriem Canyon.  Sesriem Canyon, a deep chasm carved through the rocks by water, is a striking natural feature of the area that is best explored on foot. Stony walls rise up sharply on both sides of the canyon, while birds roost in its crags and lizards dart along the ledges. The canyon’s name was coined when early settlers used it as a water source, using six lengths of leather (‘ses riem – six thongs) tied together to lower buckets into the water at the base of canyon. Return to the lodge for the overnight. Overnight at Desert Quiver Camp or similar (BLD)

Sossusvlei

Located in the scenic Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is where you will find the iconic red sand dunes of the Namib. The clear blue skies contrast with the giant red dunes to make this one of the most scenic natural wonders of Africa and a photographer's heaven. This awe-inspiring destination is possibly Namibia's premier attraction, with its unique dunes rising to almost 400 metres-some of the highest in the world. These iconic dunes come alive in morning and evening light and draw photography enthusiasts from around the globe. Sossusvlei is home to a variety desert wildlife including oryx, springbok, ostrich and a variety of reptiles. Visitors can climb 'Big Daddy', one of Sossusvlei’s tallest dunes; explore Deadvlei, a white, salt, claypan dotted with ancient trees; or for the more extravagant, scenic flights and hot air ballooning are on offer, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime champagne breakfast amidst these majestic dunes.

Dune 45

Named for its location 45 kilometres past the town of Sesriem, Dune 45 is renowned for its elegant shape, which – along with its position close to the road – have earned it the distinction of ‘most photographed dune in the world’. If you’re not keen for the strenuous hike to the top of Big Daddy, Dune 45 is a more forgiving alternative, standing at only 80 metres and featuring a much gentler gradient.

Dead Vlei

This ancient clay pan was once an oasis, studded with acacias and fed by a river that suddenly changed course, leaving the earth to dry up along with the trees it previously supported. So dry were the climatic conditions that the trees never decomposed – instead they were entirely leached of moisture so that today, 900 years later, they remain as desiccated, blackened sentinels dotting the pan’s cracked surface. Surrounded by the red-pink dunes of the Namibia Desert, they create a surreal spectacle that is a photographer's dream.

Day 4: Namib Desert – Solitaire – Walvis Bay - Swakopmund (Approximate driving time today: four hours)

Travelling via Solitaire and the Kuiseb Canyon, passing awe-inspiring landscapes as you cross the Namib gravel flats towards the Atlantic Coast and Walvis Bay. Continuing the short journey to Swakopmund, you’re surrounded by the Namib Desert on three sides, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Culturally and architecturally, Swakopmund is strongly influenced by its German colonial legacy, examples of Germanic architecture characterizing the town. Explore on foot, perhaps visiting the Swakopmund Museum, the National Marine Aquarium or the Crystal Gallery. Overnight at Swakopmund Sands Hotel or similar. (BL)

Swakopmund

Culturally and architecturally, Swakopmund (literally ‘mouth of the rhino river’) is particularly influenced by its having been a German colony, with many beautiful examples of German colonial architecture to be found. Swakopmund is surrounded by the Namib Desert on three sides, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The initial colonisation began with a military landing, favouring the site for its fresh water and potential for building a harbour along the hostile Namibian coastline. The soldiers spent the initial period dug into caves in the sand to shelter from the sun, but soon a port was created. However, by time of the seizure of German South West Africa by South Africa in 1915, the ‘Mole’ created to sustain the sea-trade had silted and the British moved the port to Walvis Bay.  It was only when Uranium was discovered and mined inland that Swakopmund began to thrive again, breathing wealth and modernity into its character. Visitors today can easily explore the town on foot and attractions include the Swakopmund Museum, the National Marine Aquarium and the Crystal Gallery.

Day 5: Swakopmund – Leisure time or optional activities

Today is free to relax or explore the town independently. Alternatively, Swakopmund has myriad adventure activities, including skydiving or dune surfing... Other options include the Living Dunes experience, learning about the flora and fauna of the desert, scenic flights over the Namib and the Skeleton Coast, or a catamaran voyage in search of marine wildlife. Please contact us for further optional excursions. Overnight at Swakopmund Sands or similar. (B)

Note – Your guide will be available today as well to escort you to any optional activities.

Day 6: Swakopmund – Etosha area (driving time approx. 6 hours)

Today we leave early for Etosha National Park, an immense, saline desert, covering over 32,000 square kilometres that provides a habitat for 114 species of animals and 340 species of birds. Etosha has been described as the best game reserve on the African continent. If we arrive in time we may do a short game drive into the National Park until just on sunset. Spend some time observing animals visiting Okaukuejo waterhole, hoping to see elephant, rhino and hopefully lion. Overnight at Taleni Etosha Village or similar. (BLD)

Etosha National Park

Covering over 12,400 square miles, and the habitat for 114 species of animals and 340 species of birds, Etosha National Park has its focal point as a vast salt pan.  However, it is the water holes which make it’s such a wonderful place to view wildlife: thousands of animals come to drink here and sightings of many of the game species can be virtually guaranteed.  The broad grasslands which provide endless grazing for the wildlife are a dramatic contrast to the aridity of elsewhere. Elephants grow to unusually large proportions on the nutrient rich trees, giraffes, lions and even leopards are relatively often seen and this is one of the best places on earth to view the endangered black rhino.  Birds are abundant – around 340 species have been recorded here. Favourite species such as Flamingos, Bateleurs, Ostrich and African openbill are simpler spots, but keen birders also come for the rarer Carp’s tit, Bare-cheeked babbler, Monterio’s hornbill, and the Rockrunner.

Day 7: Etosha National Park (game drives)

Today we explore the park’s numerous waterholes and underground springs, each of which attracts large herds of animals, including springbok, zebra, wildebeest and giraffe. The park’s landscape varies from dense bush and wildlife-filed plains. However, at its heart is Etosha Pan, a silent grey-white salt pan almost 130km by 50km. Geologists believe the pan was formed some 12 million years ago from an immense inland lake about the size of Holland. Shrunk to its present size it’s a gigantic depression - flat, saline and silvery, a mysterious place of mirages and dust-laden images. Overnight at Mokuti Etosha Lodge or similar. (BLD)

Day 8:  Etosha National Park (at leisure)

A full day exploring Etosha National Park at leisure, visiting the many waterholes throughout the park. After experiencing the incredible and renowned wildlife sightings Etosha has to offer, return home to the easy-going warmth and friendliness of your camp for the night. Overnight at Mokuti Ethosha Lodge or similar (BLD)

Day 9: Etosha National Park – Nunda River Lodge (driving time approx. 6 hours)

We have an early departure this morning as we travel to the north-east of Namibia. Set roughly 200 kilometres east of Rundu on the southeastern banks of the great Okavango River, the small village of Divundu is a wonderful destination from which to explore the river, game parks and national reserves of the area. Visitors can enjoy fishing or bird watching boat safaris, or visit the Mahango Game Park, which is home to herds of elephant as well as hippo, buffalo, giraffes, antelope, and many other animals. The spectacular Popa Falls, a dramatic series of cascades - are a popular must-see attraction. This is a long day and arrival will be late afternoon. Overnight at Mahangu Safari Lodge (BLD).

Day 10:  BwaBwata Park

The Kavango – Zambezi region (formerly call the Caprivi Strip) is a narrow strip of land in the far north eastern region of Namibia. Approximately 400 km long bordering Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana, the region is also incorporated into the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area. It falls within the tropical climate zone and receives the highest rainfall figures in Namibia, mainly between December and March. This morning we take a guided game drives into the BwaBwata Park and during mid to late afternoon go on a boat cruise on the Kavango River.  Overnight Mahangu Safari Lodge (BLD).

Day 11: Kwando (driving time approx. 2 hours)

Morning visit to a traditional village in the area before we head off through the ‘Caprivi Strip’ to our lodge which is situated on the Kwando River for overnight at Nanushasha Lodge or similar (BLD).

Our specially equipped cars will allow comfortable drives in the neighbouring parks, under the protection of its canvas roof. Game drives leave in the morning and in the afternoon, usually to Mudumu Game Park, and include a relaxing break where drinks shall be served.

Day 12:  Kwando – Kasane, Botswana (driving time approx. 4 hours)

Morning departure from Camp Kwando as we travel to the town of Katima Mulilo, head south and cross the border into Botswana.  We make our way to the northern town of Kasane for overnight at Kubu Lodge or similar (BLD).

Kasane

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of Botswana, on the banks of the famous Chobe River, the scenic little town of Kasane rests on the doorstep of the spectacular Chobe National Park. There are no boundary fences separating the village from the park and game such as elephant and hippo are often spotted roaming around the town. If on the lookout for elusive game, pay a visit to the Sedudu Valley Road, where large dead trees provide temporary homes for leopards. Within Kasane, an ancient baobab tree stands on display, once serving as a local prison.

Day 13:  Kubu Lodge

There is a place on the banks of the Chobe River, in the warm heart of Northern Botswana, where tranquillity and beauty mix with raw wilderness. Here the immaculate Chobe bushbuck shares its sanctuary with warthog, mongoose, and abundant birdlife, whilst the hippo and crocodile hold domain over the riverine paradise. This place is Kubu Lodge - a small privately owned and managed safari lodge. No radios, no television, no five-star prices. Just 'five-star' hospitality, amidst the splendour of a wild river with its spreading trees and birdsong for company.  Overnight Kubu Lodge or similar (BLD).

The Chobe National Park is famous for its bird and wildlife diversity, and is home to the largest single population of elephant in the world. Visitors explore the park by motorboat and open safari vehicles. Morning game drive into Chobe National Park with afternoon boat cruise on the Chobe River.

Day 14:  Kubu Lodge Botswana – Victoria Falls Zimbabwe (driving time approx. 2 hours)

Mid morning we cross the border to arrive in Victoria Falls, this aftenroon we will go on a guided tour of the Victoria Falls National Park, remiander of day at leisure to explore the town.  Overnight Shearwater Explorers Village or similar (B).

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls. It is set on the magnificent Zambezi River which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. These spectacular falls can be easily visited and viewed from the Zimbabwean side. Considered to be the world’s widest waterfalls, Victoria Falls measures an impressive 1708 metres in width. The small town of Victoria Falls, which lies adjacent to the waterfalls, serves as a great base from which to explore the many attractions this area of Zimbabwe has to offer. The surrounding area provides a wide range of adrenalin-filled activities for adventure lovers. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities including: scenic flights, micro lighting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking and much more.

Day 15:  Transfer to Victoria Falls Airport

Transfers will be arranged for guests to connect with their outbound flights (B)