Best of Namibia: Desert & Wildlife

Escorted Tours

Discover the thriving wildlife of the Kalahari Desert, from meerkats and giraffes to desert-adapted lions.
Marvel at Fish River Canyon’s vast landscapes and the sculptural beauty of the Quiver Tree Forest.
Wander through Lüderitz’s coastal charm, where penguins, flamingos, and colonial history meet the Atlantic.
Capture the vivid dunes of Sossusvlei and the dramatic depths of nearby Sesriem Canyon.
Seek out desert elephants in Damaraland and watch Etosha’s plains come alive with roaming wildlife.

Days

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,282 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,282 Reviews

Trip Features

Active Elements

Includes light adventure or movement for added discovery.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Off the Beaten Path

Includes lesser-known stops revealing authentic local life and surprises.

Wildlife Encounters

Offers chances to observe animals responsibly in their natural habitats.

Escorted Tours

Journeys shared alongside a small group of fellow travellers.

Active Elements

Includes light adventure or movement for added discovery.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Off the Beaten Path

Includes lesser-known stops revealing authentic local life and surprises.

Wildlife Encounters

Offers chances to observe animals responsibly in their natural habitats.

Escorted Tours

Journeys shared alongside a small group of fellow travellers.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Windhoek to the Kalahari Desert

DAY

Journey to Fish River Canyon

DAY

Wild Horses & Luderitz

DAY

Ghost Towns to the Namib

DAY

The Dunes of Sossusvlei & Dead Vlei

DAY

Desert Meets the Atlantic

DAY

Swakopmund at Leisure

DAY

Into Damaraland

DAY

Desert Elephants of Damaraland

DAY

Ancient Rock Art & Etosha

DAY

Etosha Safari

DAY

Etosha to Waterberg

DAY

Depart from Windhoek

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Windhoek to the Kalahari Desert

Multi Day Tour

Into the Kalahari Desert

Your Namibian adventure begins as you depart Windhoek and travel south into the vast Kalahari Desert. Characterized by rolling red sand dunes, golden grasslands and scattered camelthorn trees, this remarkable landscape is far more diverse than its name suggests and supports an abundance of wildlife. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and soak up the tranquility of your surroundings. This afternoon, you may wish to join an optional nature drive through the Kalahari, offering an introduction to the region's unique scenery, wildlife and spectacular sunset.

Meal

Dinner

Your Accommodation

Intu Afrika Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge

Intu Afrika Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge is set within the private Intu Afrika Kalahari Game Reserve, surrounded by the iconic red dunes and ancient camelthorn trees of the Kalahari Desert. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, bar and swimming pool, providing an ideal base from which to experience the region's unique landscapes, wildlife and optional desert activities.

Show on Map

DAY

Journey to Fish River Canyon

Multi Day Tour

Journey to Fish River Canyon

Continue south through Namibia's ever-changing landscapes toward the Fish River Canyon region. Along the way, visit the Garas Quiver Tree Forest, where distinctive quiver trees grow among the fascinating dolerite rock formations of Giants' Playground. Later, arrive near Fish River Canyon, one of the world's largest canyons and one of Namibia's most spectacular natural wonders.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Canyon Village

The Canyon Village sits picturesquely at the foot of a sweeping rock face in Gondwana Canyon Park. There is a thatched restaurant, coffee shop and a rustic bar, all set between massive granite boulders. Namibian artists have decorated the walls of the restaurant, and the rural atmosphere is continued in the chalets, depicting the daily life of the original inhabitants of the area, the Bondelswart Nama. Alternatively, guests are welcome to enjoy a break at the pool. It has magnificent views of the endless plains of Gondwana Canyon Park. The lodge consists of 40 Cape-Dutch style chalets. They are all equipped with en-suite bathrooms, a fan and mosquito nets. Take in the superb scenery in this haunting, arid landscape on an unguided morning hike, Canyon and scenic drive, horse-riding trek, or a guided sunset walk. Canyon Village is an ideal base and offers easy access to explore the wonders of Namibia's Fish River Canyon.

Show on Map

DAY

Wild Horses & Luderitz

Multi Day Tour

Wild Horses & Luderitz

Begin the day with a visit to the spectacular Fish River Canyon viewpoint before continuing west toward the Atlantic coast. Travel past the Naute Dam with an opportunity to stop at the Naute Kristall Distillery, where drinks and snacks are available for purchase. Continue through the Namib Desert, stopping at Garub to look for the famous wild horses that roam this harsh landscape, before arriving in the historic coastal town of Luderitz.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Luderitz Nest Hotel

Luderitz Nest Hotel enjoys a prime waterfront location in the historic coastal town of Luderitz. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel offers comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool and private beach, making it an ideal base from which to explore the town and the surrounding attractions of southern Namibia.

Show on Map

DAY

Ghost Towns to the Namib

Multi Day Tour

Ghost Towns to the Namib

Visit the fascinating ghost town of Kolmanskop, once a thriving diamond mining settlement that has gradually been reclaimed by the desert sands. Continue across the vast open plains of the southern Namib Desert and the scenic Tiras Mountains before arriving near Sesriem, gateway to Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei and Sesriem Canyon. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or enjoy one of the optional activities offered by your lodge.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

The Elegant Desert Lodge

The Elegant Desert Lodge enjoys a peaceful setting overlooking the striking desert landscapes near Sesriem, providing convenient access to Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei, and Sesriem Canyon. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, making it an ideal base from which to explore the spectacular scenery of the Namib Desert.

Show on Map

DAY

The Dunes of Sossusvlei & Dead Vlei

Multi Day Tour

The Dunes of Sossusvlei & Dead Vlei

Rise early to experience the magnificent dunes of Sossusvlei as the morning light transforms the desert into vibrant shades of gold, orange and red. Explore the striking white clay pan of Dead Vlei, surrounded by some of the world's highest sand dunes, before visiting Sesriem Canyon. Return to your lodge to relax after an incredible day in the desert.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

The Elegant Desert Lodge

Show on Map

DAY

Desert Meets the Atlantic

Multi Day Tour

Desert Meets the Atlantic

Depart the Namib Desert and travel through the tiny settlement of Solitaire before continuing along the scenic Gaub and Kuiseb Canyons. As the landscape gives way to the Atlantic coastline, stop at the RAMSAR-listed Walvis Bay Lagoon, one of southern Africa's most important wetlands and home to flamingos and an abundance of birdlife. Continue along the coast to Swakopmund, a charming seaside town known for its German colonial architecture, palm-lined streets and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Hansa Hotel

Nestled in the centre of Swakopmund, the hotel is constructed around a garden area and close to the sea (a 3-minute walk). With the town having been built during a German Colonial the hotel which originally dates back to 1905 (one of the first in the area) forms part of period, the area resembles a Bavarian village. With a timeless quality the towns culture. Located close by are a golf course, tennis courts, and horse/camel riding. The hotel boasts 58 rooms with underfloor heating.

Show on Map

DAY

Swakopmund at Leisure

Multi Day Tour

Swakopmund at Leisure

Enjoy a full day at leisure to discover Swakopmund at your own pace. Browse local shops and cafés, stroll along the waterfront or choose from a wide range of optional activities. Adventure seekers may enjoy quad biking, sandboarding, scenic flights or skydiving, while wildlife enthusiasts can opt for dolphin cruises or kayaking. With its unique blend of German heritage, coastal charm and desert landscapes, Swakopmund offers something for every traveler.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Hansa Hotel

Show on Map

DAY

Into Damaraland

Multi Day Tour

Into Damaraland

Depart the Atlantic coastline and travel inland through the settlement of Uis toward the spectacular landscapes of Damaraland. Pass Brandberg, Namibia's highest mountain, before arriving in one of the country's most remote and geologically diverse regions. The remainder of the day is at leisure, with the opportunity to join an optional sundowner excursion or nature drive offered by your lodge.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Ondjamba Hills

Ondjamba Hills is nestled among the granite hills and open plains of southern Damaraland, offering sweeping views of one of Namibia's most scenic regions. The lodge features comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, providing a peaceful base for exploring the dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and ancient cultural heritage of Damaraland.

Show on Map

DAY

Desert Elephants of Damaraland

Multi Day Tour

Desert Elephants of Damaraland

This morning, set out on a scenic nature drive through the private Otjimboyo Concession toward the Brandberg Massif. Travel along the ephemeral Ugab River, where desert-adapted elephants are often found feeding among the camelthorn trees that line the riverbanks. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the remarkable scenery before returning to your lodge. Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing or taking in the peaceful surroundings.

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Ondjamba Hills

Show on Map

DAY

Ancient Rock Art & Etosha

Multi Day Tour

Ancient Rock Art & Etosha

Begin the day with a visit to Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable collection of ancient San rock engravings. Continue to the Living Museum of the Damara, where you'll gain insight into the traditions and culture of one of Namibia's oldest communities, before visiting the Petrified Forest, home to fossilized tree trunks dating back millions of years. Along the way, see the extraordinary Welwitschia mirabilis, a unique desert plant found only in Namibia. Continue to your lodge near Etosha National Park.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Etosha Safari Camp

Etosha Safari Camp is located on the southern edge of Etosha National Park, just a short drive from Andersson Gate, making it an ideal base for wildlife viewing. The camp offers comfortable chalet-style accommodations, a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and inviting outdoor spaces, providing a relaxed atmosphere after rewarding days exploring one of Africa's premier safari destinations.

Show on Map

DAY

Etosha Safari

Multi Day Tour

Etosha Safari

Spend the day exploring Etosha National Park in your tour vehicle alongside your Sense of Africa guide. One of Africa's premier wildlife destinations, the park is centered around the vast Etosha Pan and an extensive network of waterholes that attract an incredible variety of wildlife throughout the year. Keep watch for elephants, lions, leopards, black rhinos, giraffes, zebras, springbok and numerous antelope species, while bird enthusiasts can look forward to spotting some of the park's more than 340 recorded bird species. Each waterhole offers a unique wildlife viewing experience, making every game drive memorable.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Etosha Safari Camp

Show on Map

DAY

Etosha to Waterberg

Multi Day Tour

Etosha to Waterberg

Continue exploring Etosha National Park with your guide, visiting additional waterholes and searching for wildlife you may not have encountered the previous day. Later, depart the park and travel south through Namibia's bushveld landscapes to your overnight stop at Sachsenheim Guest Farm.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Sachsenheim Guest Farm

Sachsenheim Guest Farm is set on a working farm in central Namibia, offering a peaceful countryside setting between Etosha National Park and Windhoek. Surrounded by open landscapes and abundant birdlife, the guest farm features comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, providing a relaxing place to unwind before continuing your Namibian journey.

Show on Map

DAY

Depart from Windhoek

Multi Day Tour

Depart Windhoek

After breakfast, travel south through the heart of Namibia toward Windhoek. Time permitting, stop at the famous Okahandja Woodcarvers Market, where local artisans display an impressive selection of handcrafted carvings and souvenirs. Upon arrival in Windhoek, you'll be transferred either to your individually booked hotel or to Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport for your onward journey.

Meal

Breakfast

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Springbok in Kalahari Desert

Etosha National Park

Damaraland, Northern Namibia

Sossusvlei

Swakopmund

Know when to go.

Place

Conditions

Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall

SwakopmundMostly Sunny

35°C / 95°F

7mm / 0.3"

SossusvleiMostly Sunny

35°C / 95°F

7mm / 0.3"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

ExcellentBased on 5,282 Reviews

Verified

Katie was great, planned everything we needed, was great with changes and trip schedule conflicts. Fantastic working with her.CT

Verified

I have been booking with GoWay for more than 2 years and feel so fortunate to have the best Travel Advisor, Maria Spitman, making our vacations unforgettable. I can’t say enough about Maria… she is personable, efficient, detail-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable about her specialty destinations. We have booked many trips with her, including Thailand, Spain, Portugal, Sicily, Iceland, and our most recent trip in Greece. Maria has not only curated nuanced itineraries, but has done so combining her vast knowledge of each region with our interests and needs being met perfectly. With that, it is evident that Maria learns about her clients to create vacation packages that far exceed expectations. I won’t book with anyone else! GoWay has a gem that is irreplaceable! I highly recommend seeking Maria out for all your destination needs. Darleen

Verified

Goway has been amazing to work with. Farooq was my agent through Goway and she communicated promptly, planned a great international trip for my clients and was always organized. The trip was flawless to Rome and Malta from beginning to end!Kim Kamelesky

Verified

Lisa Dachuk was incredible on organizing my trip. She took the time to know what I wanted and created an experience I will forever be grateful for having.Louise Helie Masters

Verified

Lori Mezzomo and the team at Goway Travel are fantastic! Lori helped plan a 3-week Australia trip for our family of 5. Our teenage boys enjoyed exploring Sydney, Uluru, Cairns and the Gold Coast. Highlights included a Sydney Harbour Bridge walk, sunrise hike around Uluru, snorkeling with turtles on the Great Barrier Reef, and surfing on the gold coast. Lori did a fantastic job of creating an itinerary that was engaging for our teenage boys and relaxing for the parents... not an easy task! We miss Australia and would gladly book again with Lori Mezzomo and Goway Travel.Blair

Verified

Swati was fantastic! She worked with us to create the perfect Greece trip, and handled all the details to make it a worry-free experience.Jtv

Verified

Michael at Goway Travel was great to work with. We were planning a pre-trip with him prior to a group tour. He worked with us to hit the special places we wanted to visit and things we wanted to do. The accommodations arranged exceeded our expectations. Local guides were all amazing. This was the third trip we booked through Goway, and we will definitely book with them again in the future David Picka

Verified

Goway Travel has South Pacific travel Consultant and they are all very experienced. ALICE was the agent who took care of my travel to Australia and she suggested best hotel accommodations excursions and worked within my budget. I had wonderful trip without any problems. Alice was very helpful and we are planning another trip will contact her.Saral

Verified

Alice Teramoto Put together a perfect trip to Aitutaki and Rarotonga. The tours she included added to the experience. She was the glue to combine the complete package and would highly recommend her services.Valued Customer

Verified

We just came back from a wonderful trip to Portugal. From the time I contacted Goway until now, I have been more than satisfied with our experience. Our agent Michael put together a 8 day package with all the requirements we had asked for. The 8 day trip went so seamless & took all the stress off us travelling in Portugal. Michael not only listened to what we wanted, but he was so quick to respond to all of our calls, emails & concerns. The transfers, hotels & tours he arranged were the best. We would highly recommend Goway. I can hardly wait to book our next adventure with Goway. Cathy

Our Commitment

Why Travel with Goway?

Personalized Trips

Every vacation with Goway is tailored to your exact travel needs. Our vacations are as unique as you are.

Elevated Experiences

Travel experiences with up to 5-star accommodations and private guided tours that offers an intimate and exclusive way to see the world.

Authentic Experts

Work with our Destination Specialists who are true experts, having lived, worked, or traveled extensively in the destinations we offer.

Global Adventures

Enjoy great value on vacations to over 115 destinations on all seven continents. Explore the whole world in the way and style you choose.

What do the experts say?

Yael Marom

Destination Specialist

Learn More About This Expert

The country has such beautiful landscapes, especially the Namib desert. It is the oldest desert in world with the highest sand dunes. Visiting it is a truly unforgettable experience.

Learn More About This Expert