6 Days Panorama Namibia Tour

6 Days Panorama Namibia Tour

Kalahari Namibia - Naukluft Mountains - Swakopmund - Sossusvlei - Greater Windhoek

6 Days / 5 Nights
Reference: 0002

Introduction:

Accommodation

Destination

Basis

Duration

Kalahari Anib Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia

Kalahari Namibia

B&B

1 Night:

Agama Lodge

Naukluft Mountains

D, B&B

1 Night:

Artemis Hotel Swakopmund

Swakopmund

B&B

2 Nights:

Okapuka Safari Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia

Greater Windhoek

B&B

1 Night:

Key

B&B: Bed and Breakfast

D, B&B: Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Price: Upon request

Included:

5 nights’ accommodation as per the tour summary

All services as listed above

English-speaking guide

Suitable vehicle as above or Similar, including Fuel

Porterage

Water on board the vehicle

Passenger Liability insurance

Entrance fees and activities as listed above

15% VAT

Tourism Levy

Excluded:

All other flights and flight-related taxes and levies

All expenses of a personal nature

All other Activities, Entry Fees & Dinners

All other services not listed above

Travel Insurance.

Day 1: Kalahari Anib Lodge, Gondwana Collection, Namibia, Kalahari Namibia

Kalahari Namibia

Spreading across Botswana, South Africa and Namibia, the Kalahari, meaning 'the great thirst' is an exceptionally beautiful living desert. The landscape is characterised by a large semi-arid sandy savannah draped over a gently rolling inland sea of sand covering most of Botswana and large parts of Namibia, and South Africa.

It is also the last bastion of the indigenous San people, with the modern world having enveloped all the other areas they once roamed. The Namibian portion is made up of red sands covered in thin, wispy, mostly golden grass and dotted with acacia trees and wide-ranging wildlife, including gemsbok, impala, jackals and cheetah.

Day Itinerary:

Arrival at Windhoek International Airport no later than midday. You will be picked up by a driver/guide and taken to Windhoek.

Leaving Windhoek, we travel into the largest sand mass on Earth, the Kalahari Desert. The Kalahari is a vast semi-desert of wind-blown sand held by a sparse mantle of thorn scrub, making it the largest continuous stretch of sand covering 9 African countries. Unlike other true deserts, the Kalahari does receive erratic rainfall. For many, therefore, “thirstland” is a more fitting description.

Lacking permanent surface water, the Kalahari is a challenging place to live except for those who have adapted not only to survive but also to flourish here.

The Bushmen refer to it as the “Soul of the World”, an emotive description for this area! With its deep red dunes and endless grass plains interspersed with acacias and shrubs, it is still home to a surprisingly large amount of specially adapted wildlife.

In the late afternoon, a sundowner drive awaits – an experience not to be missed. Experience the Kalahari as the day draws to a close, with the setting sun casting a golden hue over the landscape. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll gain insight into the fascinating nature and wildlife of the Kalahari.

Overnight: Kalahari Anib Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia

Savour the Kalahari Desert at this easily accessible lodge. 32 standard rooms flank a shady courtyard, with another 19 comfort rooms overlooking the Kalahari savannah. Stretch legs on the walks and join the afternoon drive to experience the red Kalahari sands aglow with an inner fire.

Location: Approximately 30 km northeast of Mariental on the C 20 (Kalahari).

Activities:

Afternoon

Gondwana Game Reserve Game Drives

Gondwana Game Reserve Game Drives

Travellers may immerse themselves in the wild heart of South Africa with Gondwana Game Reserve’s exhilarating game drives. Traverse the breathtaking landscapes of Gondwana Private Game Reserve in open game viewers, guided by passionate and knowledgeable field guides.

These drives are tailored to the seasons, offering the best chances to observe a rich tapestry of wildlife. For an even more personalised adventure, book a private 3-hour game drive, available 48 hours before arrival, and subject to availability. Remember to bring sunblock, a warm jacket, a hat, a camera, and binoculars to capture the essence of this unforgettable safari experience.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Day 2: Agama Lodge, Naukluft Mountains

Naukluft Mountains

Located in Central Namibia, the Naukluft Mountains cut a fine silhouette against the vast open skies of this incredibly beautiful country. Private farms occupy the northern reaches, and to the south, the range falls within the spectacular Namib-Naukluft National Park. Rising steeply from the vast plains of Central Namibia, the rugged landscape holds a fascinating history, interesting geology, and boasts a variety of deep gorges, caves, small streams and beautiful waterfalls.

These mountains support an array of wildlife, including over 50 mammal species such as leopard, mountain zebra, various antelope species and almost 200 species of birds. Popular activities include: game viewing, hiking, bird watching, camping, off-roading in a four-wheel drive and swimming in the spectacular rock pools at the Kudusrus campsite.

Day Itinerary:

Later in the morning, your journey continues through Mariental and Maltahöhe towards Sesriem. Your destination for the day is the Agama Lodge, acting as the hub for explorations to the vast star dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert. Take a moment to unwind at the pool or on your terrace, fully embracing the serenity of the surroundings.

Overnight: Agama Lodge

The name ‘Agama” is derived from the colourful family of lizards that frequent the drier savannah regions of Africa. This was the first creature that the original owners saw when they entered the farm gate, and celebrating this inquisitive reptile seemed a fitting tribute!

Agama Lodge is situated on the southern banks of the Diep Rivier, with superb facilities and splendid north-facing views of the Naukluft Mountains.

The unique design of the chalets offers ALL guests the unprecedented luxury of sleeping under the stars, if they want to.

The Deluxe chalets at Agama Lodge boast air conditioning, a writing desk, pull-out sofa, marble-clad bathroom, raindrop wet room, separate WC, safe, wardrobe and a private veranda with shaded outdoor seating.
The Standard chalets at Agama Lodge boast air conditioning, a writing desk, a sofa, a bathroom with a private shower, a wardrobe and a private veranda with seating.

Agama Lodge offers guests a bar as well as a restaurant, which serves outstanding food, whilst the infinity swimming pool and the viewing deck offer uninterrupted views of the central Namib Desert.

Optional

Morning

Intu Afrika Kalahari Reserve Bushmen Walk

The Intu Afrika Kalahari Reserve, situated in Kalkrand, Namibia, offers guests an exciting, hour-long bush walk in the Kalahari landscape. The walk usually takes place in the morning to avoid the harsh midday sun. The term ‘Bushman’, now referred to as the San people, refers to the nomadic hunter-gatherers indigenous to this area.

The San people know the Kalahari Desert better than any other human beings and have survived the dry conditions for generations. They have studied nature and know where to find food and water in the harsh conditions of the unrelenting and unforgiving desert landscapes.

They are hunter-gatherers, hunting with bows and arrows, trapping small animals and eating edible roots and berries, and they eagerly demonstrate this to guests.

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 3: Artemis Hotel, Swakopmund

Swakopmund

Set along Namibia's spectacularly scenic coast, the seaside town of Swakopmund is known for its wide-open avenues, colonial architecture, and its surrounding otherworldly desert terrain. Founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South-West Africa, Swakopmund is often described as being more German than Germany. Now a seaside resort town, Swakopmund is the capital of the Skeleton Coast tourism area and has plenty to keep visitors happy.

The quirky mix of German and Namibian influences, adventure options, laid-back atmosphere and cool sea breeze make it a very popular Namibian destination. Visitors can look forward to a number of exciting activities, including: quad biking, horse riding, paragliding, fishing, sightseeing and fascinating desert tours.

Day Itinerary:

At sunrise, the gates of the Namib Naukluft Park open, and you make your way into the Sossusvlei area. If you are early and fit enough, you can even climb one of the dunes and enjoy the impressive view of the entire landscape.

You will drive with the 4×4 vehicle to the Sossusvlei, which is a dry clay pan that only fills with water in years with a lot of rain.

Thereafter, you will continue to the Sesriem Canyon, formed by the Tsauchab River over millions of years. After an eventful morning, you return to the Elegant Desert Camp. Relax and enjoy your beautiful surroundings. When the day draws to a close, it is well worth leaning back and enjoying the view above you: Millions of stars, twinkling against the night sky.

And if you can’t get enough of this mesmerising sight, you can roll your bed out onto your private terrace and spend the night under the open sky. Drive later in the afternoon to Swakopmund

Overnight: Artemis Hotel Swakopmund

Artemis Hotel Swakopmund is located between the central business district and the beach, on the quieter side of the historical town of Swakopmund in Namibia.

The hotel offers 21 carefully curated and decorated guest rooms in 3 differentiated categories: standard rooms, comfort rooms and a junior suite.

All rooms have a private bathroom with a separate shower and bath, stocked with high-quality amenities. Whether enjoying an extensive breakfast buffet in the restaurant or taking in the views of Swakopmund and the Atlantic from the 4th-floor roof terrace, guests can stay connected using the complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi offered throughout the property.

Activities:

Morning

Dune 45

Morning

Deadvlei

Afternoon

Sesriem Canyon

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 – has earned it the distinction of ‘most photographed dune in the world’. If you’re not keen on 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.

Deadvlei

Deadvlei is a clay pan near Sossusvlei, marked by dark, dead camel thorn trees standing on a pale, cracked surface. These trees grew after flooding by the Tsauchab River, but shifting dunes later cut off the water. The arid climate has preserved the trees for centuries. Surrounded by rust-coloured dunes and a vivid sky, the area presents a stark, striking contrast that draws many to observe its unique and silent landscape.

Sesriem Canyon

Sesriem Canyon is a captivating natural wonder located in the heart of the Namib Desert in Namibia. Carved over millions of years by the Tsauchab River, this narrow gorge is a testament to the power of erosion. The name Sesriem comes from the Afrikaans and Dutch words for six leather straps, which early pioneers used tied together to draw water from the deep pools within the canyon. Sesriem Canyon is not only a geological marvel but also a haven for unique desert flora and fauna, making it a popular stop for tourists exploring the surreal landscapes of the Namib Desert.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Day 4: Artemis Hotel, Swakopmund

Day Itinerary:

Today is a day off in Swakopmund, so feel free to relax and take your time exploring this lovely seaside town. You can begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the neighbourhood cafes, where you could eat a substantial meal or some freshly baked pastries.

A quad bike tour of the breathtaking dunes or an easy walk along the beach, where you can take in the beautiful scenery and ocean breeze, are just two of the many activities Swakopmund has to offer. For those who enjoy adventure, activities like skydiving, Sandwich Harbour, sandboarding, or even a dolphin cruise might spice up your day.

You can spend the afternoon at the famous Jetty or the Swakopmund Museum, two nearby attractions. As evening approaches, there are several restaurants to pick from, serving anything from traditional Namibian fare to seafood specialities.

Swakopmund has something to offer everyone's taste, whether you're looking for a busy beachside restaurant or a quiet café. Today is dedicated to leisure, discovery, and enjoying the many gastronomic treats this energetic town has to offer.

Optional

Sossusfly Scenic Flight

Sandwich Harbour 4x4

Charly's Desert Tours Sandboarding

Swakopmund Day Tours Seal & Dolphin Cruises

Desert Explorers Quad Biking 2 Hour Explorer Tour

Sossusfly Scenic Flight

The Sossusfly Scenic Flight is a flight that gives visitors the opportunity to experience a bird's-eye view of the most spectacular scenery of the Namib Desert. The flight covers the desert and the Southern Skeleton Coast from the air. The flight includes a low-level flight along the green Kuiseb to the Kuiseb Canyon, as well as the coastline.

Highlights of the flight include Tsondablei, Sossusvlei area, diamond camps, shipwrecks, Sandwich Harbour, salt works, Walvis Bay, Longbeach, and Swakopmund.

Sandwich Harbour 4x4

Sandwich Harbour 4x4 offers excursions to the Namib Desert, showcasing the unique landscapes where dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean. Participants can explore the Walvis Bay Wetlands, home to diverse bird species and historical archaeological sites.

The tours include visits to the Kuiseb River Delta and the Sandwich Harbour Lagoon, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and vegetation.

The excursions are designed to highlight the natural beauty and ecological significance of this coastal region.

Charly's Desert Tours Sandboarding

Stand-up and lie-down sandboarding have grown in popularity over the years. Charly's Desert Tours provides all necessary equipment and instructions. Despite the fact that there are no ski lifts in the dunes, sandboarding is great fun for everyone, where speeds of up to 8km/h can be reached.

There are two options to choose from: the traditional lie-down boarding is the easy option, or stand-up boarding, which uses snowboards.

Swakopmund Day Tours Seal & Dolphin Cruises

Swakopmund Day Tours Seal & Dolphin Cruises enables visitors to enjoy a cruise in the Walvis Bay Lagoon and experience the majestic beauty of seals and dolphins swimming alongside the ski boat or catamaran. Guests will see dolphins, seal colonies, Bird Island, moored Russian trawlers, Pelican Point, flamingos and pelicans. The cruise ends with a tasting of oysters and sparkling wines.

Desert Explorers Quad Biking 2 Hour Explorer Tour

Located in Swakopmund, Namibia. Desert Explorers Quad Biking 2 Hour Explorer Tour takes visitors on a pleasant guided quad bike tour to explore the different plant and animal life of the Namib Desert. During a variety of stops along the way, visitors can learn a little about the creatures of the desert.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Day 5: Okapuka Safari Lodge, Gondwana Collection Namibia, Greater Windhoek

Greater Windhoek

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, lies at the heart of the country, encircled by magnificent mountains, expansive valleys, and fertile farmlands. The landscape of the Greater Windhoek area surrounding this bustling city is characterised by vast valleys, thick scrub, rocky hills, and is covered in golden savannah.

Visitors can explore the dry river beds and mountainous scrublands, as well as enjoy birding, leopard-spotting and view large quantities of wildlife in the north; visit the more arid eastern part with its olive, potato, and date plantations; explore the rolling hills of the Khomas Hochland Mountains in the west of the Greater Windhoek area and soak up the epic views along many scenic passes leading off the high plateau, including Bosua Pass, Gamsberg Pass, and Spreetshoogte Pass.

Day Itinerary:

After breakfast, you will travel via Okahandja to Okapuka Ranch. In Okahandja, your guide will stop at the Kavango Woodcarvers Market, where you will have the opportunity to buy the last souvenirs before you continue to Okapuka. In the evening, you will embark on a Game Drive with the Lodge.

Overnight: Okapuka Safari Lodge Gondwana Collection Namibia

7,300 ha of pristine African bushveld welcome you, with amazing views of unspoiled landscapes and breathtaking mountain ranges. Okapuka Safari Lodge takes you on a nostalgic African journey, reflecting both the majestic tranquillity of our mysterious continent and the exciting wildlife. Offering Africa’s magic on the doorsteps of Windhoek. Only 30 minutes from the capital city.

Come to the place that most Namibian antelope species call home, who knows what you might spot on one of our famous game drives, taking you deep into the bush, where you will experience serenity like never before. It is the perfect place to start or end your Namibian journey. Welcome to your home away from home. Beautiful rustic bungalows overlooking the antelopes that casually graze in front of your door.

A truly safari-inspired restaurant among camel thorn trees which have stood guard at this oasis for aeons.

Location: 32 km north of Windhoek on B1 (A1)

Activities:

Okahandja Mbangura Woodcarvers Craft Market

Afternoon

Game Drive at Okapuka Ranch

Okahandja Mbangura Woodcarvers Craft Market

Located at the southern entrance to Okahandja, the Okahandja Mbangura Woodcarvers Craft Market offers a vibrant showcase of Namibian craftsmanship.

Visitors can browse a series of rustic stalls displaying intricately carved wooden sculptures, bowls, masks and furniture.

While many vendors are resellers, the market retains a lively atmosphere, with artisans occasionally sharing insights into their work. Bargaining is customary, and cash is preferred. Though some stalls offer similar items, careful browsing may reveal unique pieces. Despite occasional assertive sales tactics, the market remains a popular stop for those seeking authentic souvenirs and a glimpse into local artistry.

Game Drive at Okapuka Ranch

Okapuka lodge, situated only 30km north of Windhoek, is an ideal stopover for those arriving or departing from the Windhoek International Airport.

On a Game Drive, visitors will explore the natural surroundings of this beautiful ranch. The rangers are extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about wildlife and will answer all questions about the particular animals viewed.

Photograph opportunities are plenty, and if the driver is asked to take a picture, he will gladly oblige. The highlight of the drive is to see the rhino in such proximity.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Day 6: End of Itinerary

Day Itinerary:

Today, we aim to arrive back in the city in time for your flight. The guide will assist you with checking in at the airport. Here he will greet you, and we hope to see you again in the future.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast