The most underrated country we’ve EVER visited
The Ultimate 12-Day Namibia Itinerary: Explore Windhoek, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Erongo Region, Damaraland, and Etosha
Namibia, a land of stunning contrasts, offers everything from vast deserts to rugged coastlines and wildlife-rich national parks. If you're looking to experience the best that this Southern African gem has to offer, we’ve created a 12-day itinerary with our tour Agency Viatu that provides the perfect opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique wildlife. From the capital of Windhoek to the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, the charming coastal town of Swakopmund, and the game-filled Etosha National Park, here’s your ultimate guide to the best of Namibia, our new favourite country in all of Africa!
Why travel to Namibia?
It’s safe, unlike some of it’s neighbouring countries (and this is coming from us two South Africans). Namibia is considered one of the safest and most peaceful countries in Africa
Nature is abundant and untouched here! Experience the incredible stars at night, thousands of wildlife that are actually wild and free-roaming, and clean desert landscapes. Your mind will feel rested after being in the country for a week.
It has some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you’ll ever lay eyes on (you’ll only believe us once you’ve seen it for yourself)
It’s basically malaria free! Malaria carrying mosquitos thrive in rainy, wet areas. Luckily, Namibia sees hardly any rain in the year being a desert landscape and so, it is a very low risk malaria country. Just try avoid the Northern and Northeastern part of the country.
Best time to visit?
The dry season (May to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, especially in Etosha. June-August will have the coolest and most comfortable temperatures. Summer can be unbearable with temperatures well over 45 degrees celsius.
Packing Essentials:
Bring a bottle to keep water cold, sunscreen, a hat, a buff, sunglasses, light and airy clothing, and good walking shoes for desert exploration. A camera with a zoom lens is essential to capture the incredible landscapes and wildlife. Bring everything you’ll need in terms of medication, there are hardly any pharmacies in the country.
How to travel Namibia?
We’ve filmed a full 12 day itinerary! You can watch it here. The entire trip was planned and organised by our sustainable tour agency Viatu. You can book our exact trip with them here. Use our code 'RC50' to get 50 EUR off your next trip!
Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek
Start your adventure in Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek, a gateway to the country's incredible natural beauty. You’ll likely be landing at Hosea Kutako International Airport. Make sure you draw a good amount of cash here, or exchange currency. Get yourself a simcard as well! Do this all before you leave the airport. Namibia has very bad cellphone signal, you can get it all done in the centre of Windhoek if someone is fetching you from the airport and driving you into town. We rented a car from Namibia2go - they were fantastic and fetched us from the airport! Renting a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for this itinerary, as some roads in the desert and national parks may require it.
Arrival & Accommodation: Windhoek is a small yet vibrant city, offering a blend of colonial architecture, modern amenities, and Namibian culture. Upon arrival, settle into one of the city's comfortable accommodations—be it a boutique hotel or a cozy guesthouse. Our travel agency Viatu booked us all of our accommodation on this trip. We stayed at Ultimate Safaris guesthouse called Galton House
Depending on what time you’re landing, and how long the journey was, you can either spend a night at Galton House or you can head straight to Sossuvlei like we did! We only flew 2 hours from Johannesburg so we were ripe and ready for the drive!
Day 1: Windhoek to Sossusvlei (5–6 hours)
Begin your journey to one of Namibia’s most iconic destinations: the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei.**
Traveling to Sossusvlei: Drive through the arid landscapes of the Namib Desert to reach Sossusvlei, located in the heart of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. This will take approximately 5-6 hours, so be sure to pack snacks and water for the road, and fill up your petrol tank.
Arrive at the most unique and luxuriously african stays in Namibia, Camp Sossus by Ultimate Safaris. Eat a delicious Namibian dish, drink as much as you want of some of the worlds best wines and get an early night on your rooftop bed under the stars. It’s going to be an early one!
Day 2: Deadvlei
Today you visit one of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll ever see, home to the worlds tallest dunes!
Morning at Deadvlei: Early morning is the best time to experience the dunes in all their glory, as the light casts long shadows and the temperatures are cooler. You can take a scenic drive to *Dead Vlei* or opt for a guided tour by Ultimate Safaris like we did (included in your stay) to gain insight into the unique desert ecosystem. Do the long walk on Big Daddy dune and then make your way to the bottom of the pan. Home to 1000 year old petrified trees.
Your guide will prepare you a beautiful breakfast under the trees, take you to all the best spots, including Sesriem Canyon. Head back to camp for a dip in the pool, a nap and then sundowners and another beautiful dinner.
Day 3: Sossusvlei to Swakopmund (4–5 hours)
Head to where the desert meets the ocean —Swakopmund, with its blend of German colonial architecture and seaside charm.
Travel to Swakopmund: Journey northwest through the desert to reach Swakopmund, a coastal town that provides a refreshing contrast to the arid landscapes of the interior. Definitely make a pit stop at Solitaire for petrol and world famous apple pie!
Explore Swakopmund: Spend the next day exploring this charming town, known for its colonial buildings, sandy beaches, and German-inspired cuisine. Stroll along the *Swakopmund Jetty*, visit the *Swakopmund Museum*
Day 4: Sandwich Harbour
Swakopmund is the place to indulge in adventure activities. You can go quad biking in the dunes, take a scenic flight over the Skeleton Coast, or try sandboarding down the dunes for an adrenaline rush. But the best day is with Mola Mola safaris on their full day tour of Swakopmund! The day starts with a boat ride where you’ll meet some local friends, You’ll then kayak with the cutest seals in the world. They’ll then set up a full on luxurious barbecue on the beach with oysters and champagne, a guide will then pick you up and take you to Sandwich harbour which, with no exaggeration, is the most insane landscape we’ve ever been on! You’ll have some drinks in the desert, and continue exploring all the gems that the area offers. It truly was one of the best days of our lives. It’s a big day so you’ll be exhausted, grab a German meal in town and relax in the gorgeous hidden-gem of accommodation Fancy Fritz. Perfect, perfect day.
Day 5-6: Swakopmund to Erongo Region (2–3 hours)
Leave the coast behind and venture inland to the Erongo Region, a hidden gem known for its dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Explore the Erongo Mountains: This region is a paradise for nature lovers. The Erongo Mountains are home to unique rock formations and wildlife, including oryx, springbok, and a variety of bird species. Visit Spitzkoppe, often called the "Matterhorn of Namibia," and enjoy the area’s exceptional rock formations and ancient rock art.
Stay in a Lodge: Spend the night in a lodge or camp in the Erongo Region, allowing you to fully experience the quiet beauty of the area. We stayed at Ai Aiba Rock painting lodge which was great, either spend a night here and then a night camping near Spitkoppe (pictured above), or spend 2 nights camping at Spitzkoppe tented camp.
Day 7-9: Erongo Region to Damaraland (2–3 hours)
Head to Damaraland, a region rich in history, culture, and natural wonders.
Travel to Damaraland: Continue your journey north to Damaraland, famous for its desert-adapted elephants and ancient petroglyphs. This area is known for its rugged, barren terrain and unique wildlife.
Visit Twyfelfontein: One of Namibia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Twyfelfontein is home to thousands of ancient rock engravings. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric lives of the indigenous San people.
Explore the Desert-Adapted Wildlife**: If you’re lucky, you may encounter desert-adapted black rhinos or elephants, which have uniquely adapted to the harsh desert environment. Damaraland is also home to lions, and a variety of other species. Make sure you’re staying at a lodge that offers tours to both of these places, we stayed at Camp Doros but the sister camp of Onduli Ridge is the spot you want to be!
Head to Damara Living Museum to meet the indigenous people of the region on your way to the next destination.
Day 9-11: Damaraland to Etosha National Park (4–5 hours)
Next, head to one of Africa's most famous wildlife reserves: Etosha National Park.
Etosha National Park: Etosha is a vast salt pan that dominates the landscape and offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is home to large populations of elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and numerous bird species. Over the next two days, enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives, where you’ll have the chance to spot a wide range of wildlife.
We stayed at Safarihoek which is a privately owned reserve with its own animals about a 1.5-hour drive from the entrance to the etosha national park. Alternatively, you can stay at a lodge right at the gate. Contact Viatu to book that for you.
Day 12: Etosha to Windhoek (5–6 hours)
On your final day, return to Windhoek for your departure.
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Windhoek, reflecting on your incredible adventure through Namibia. The drive will take approximately 5-6 hours, giving you plenty of time to reminisce about the landscapes and experiences you’ve encountered.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading to the airport for your departure.
This 12-day Namibia itinerary offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and wildlife, making it an ideal way to explore the country. From the red dunes of Sossusvlei to the coastal charm of Swakopmund and the wildlife haven of Etosha, this journey will leave you with unforgettable memories of Namibia’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Whether you're an adventurer, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone looking to immerse yourself in nature, Namibia has something to offer every type of traveler. So, pack your bags, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Watch this video BEFORE you start planning for Namibia:
