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 5,316 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,316 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

DAY

Array

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Windhoek to the Kalahari Desert

Transfer

Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport to Windhoek

Your Accommodation

Auas City Hotel

Auas City Hotel is a centrally located hotel in Windhoek's Maerua Park area, adjacent to Maerua Mall and within easy reach of the city's business, shopping, and cultural attractions. Set in a tranquil garden environment, the hotel offers comfortable accommodation with modern conveniences including air-conditioned rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and on-site parking. Guests can enjoy a restaurant known for its relaxed atmosphere and locally inspired dining options. Friendly service, a 24-hour front desk, and easy access to Eros Airport further enhance the guest experience, making Auas City Hotel a convenient and affordable choice for exploring Namibia's capital city.

Duration

1 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

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DAY

Journey to Fish River Canyon

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.

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DAY

Wild Horses & Luderitz

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.

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DAY

Ghost Towns to the Namib

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.

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DAY

The Dunes of Sossusvlei & Dead Vlei

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.

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DAY

Desert Meets the Atlantic

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

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DAY

Swakopmund at Leisure

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.

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DAY

Into Damaraland

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

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DAY

Desert Elephants of 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.

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DAY

Ancient Rock Art & Etosha

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

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DAY

Etosha Safari

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.

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DAY

Etosha to Waterberg

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

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DAY

Depart from Windhoek

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.

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DAY

Array

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"

WindhoekMostly Sunny

35°C / 95°F

7mm / 0.3"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

ExcellentBased on 5,316 Reviews

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Our experience was amazing! The booking process went great. We just had to pack our clothes and everything else was taken care of thanks to Goway Travel… Lori Mezzomo!!! Lori was fantastic. Everything from flights to transfers to excursions was perfect! Can’t wait to go back and i would definitely use Goway Travel again!!!Marie Idol

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Maria Spitman provided exemplary service to us! Her expertise, attention to detail, timely replies and kindness were unmatched. We will definitely recommend her to others who we know are considering travel to Asia. Alice Staniforth

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Michael Keon and his crew did a fine job coordinating our trip to Turkey. His contact in Turkey, Mr. Omer was in contact with us almost daily reminding us of our schedule and pick up info. He was terrific. Very informative and insightful guides. And large comfortable vehicles on every trip. Awesome trip. Tom and Sharon Tom and Sharon, Toronto, Canada

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We loved the trip itinerary and everything was organized so well! Lori was always very responsive and answered our questions promptly. Thank you for an amazing trip!Jelena Poprzen

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As a travel advisor, I recently booked a group of clients on a Goway tour in China following their paddleboat competition, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. Christine and Tanya in the groups department were incredibly helpful and made the entire process seamless. Their support was greatly appreciated! The feedback from my clients was overwhelmingly positive, with particular praise for the local tour guides, who helped make the trip so memorable. Everyone had a wonderful time. Thank you, Christine, Tanya, and the Goway team, for taking such great care of my clients. I would happily recommend Goway and look forward to working with them again!customer

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I wanna start off by saying that Farnaz our agent was excellent!!! she planned the whole experience from start to finish. We did not have to worry about one thing the entire trip. All the hotels were great. Our transfers from hotels to fairies to airports were all available and always on time. The excursions she planned for us were all top-notch. I was a little skeptical, but just finding GOWAY online stumbling across it. But I’m so glad I made the choice to use them. I hope they definitely using the company again and especially our agent Farnaz!!! Thank you do mych for a wonderful experience! Catherine

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Our goal for this trip was a stress free honeymoon where we did not have to think about anything! Goway made that successful. Everything was planned and ready for us. We just had to show up. Brooke recommended fantastic accommodations that were in great locations, clean and comfortable. The tours were took with Thompson's Africa were incredible as well. Brooke was helpful throughout the entire booking process & we wouldn't have had such an incredible experience without her. We really loved our South African holiday and hope to travel there or other locations again with Goway.Taylor

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October 9, 2026, was our 50th wedding anniversary. To celebrate, I wanted to take my bride to Europe for 50 days. Also, other than the flight over, I wanted to make the trip by train. I contacted Farnaz at Goway. The trip we planned ultimately extended to 60 days. It was absolutely flawless. We had great hotels, great tours. Even though this trip was complex and had a lot of moving parts, there were no problems. Farnaz and the folks at Goway done a great job. I highly recommend them and will definitely use them on any future tripsDaniel Graff

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We had a fabulous Croatia vacation with a cruise from Dubrovnik to Split, followed by land tours on Split and Opatija. Lodging was always comfortable and conveniently located. Tours and activities were perfectly suited to our interests. We have used GoWay for 2 vacations and are currently working on another. Karen

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We would like to thank our travel specialist, Bijal for all the planning and coordinating that was done to make our Tanzania trip as spectacular as it was from start to finish! Everything went so smoothly from our transfers, to our accommodations, to all of our tours! The people we came into contact with were exemplary! There were so many highlights on our trip from the animal sightings, to the balloon flight and champagne breakfast, to all the incredible scenery. Our accommodations were stunning! The level of service was remarkable and the locations were beyond our expectations. To think we would be having dinner and seeing the zebras and the elephants in the distance was amazing! Our tour guide/driver was very knowledgeable, friendly, passionate and had a keen eye for spotting animals in the distance. He made sure that we saw all the animals that we had hoped to see. it was truly a pleasure to spend the week with him. Thank you again to Bijal for all the work in making this once in a lifetime trip so exceptional!! We look forward to having Bijal help us plan our future trips.The Chadwicks and Williams

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What do the experts say?

Yael Marom

Destination Specialist

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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.

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