14-Day Wonders of Namibia Self Drive Safari. Embark on an unforgettable 14-day self-drive adventure through the heart of Namibia with Great Explorations Namibia. This journey offers a perfect blend of rugged landscapes, desert beauty, cultural encounters, and incredible wildlife experiences. From your arrival in Windhoek, you’ll travel through the red sands of the Kalahari, the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei, and the coastal charm of Swakopmund. Explore ancient rock engravings in Twyfelfontein, search for desert-adapted elephants in Damaraland, and witness spectacular wildlife in Etosha National Park. Enjoy comfort at carefully selected lodges and immerse yourself in the rich natural and cultural heritage of Namibia. With your travel documents, maps, and personal meet-and-greet service arranged upon arrival, this self-guided itinerary allows for flexibility, discovery, and adventure at your own pace. Welcome to a truly memorable African journey

Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek

Upon landing at Hosea Kutako International Airport, a representative from the car rental company will welcome you and transfer you to their offices in Windhoek. Here, you’ll complete the necessary vehicle paperwork. Once the handover is finalized, a meet-and-greet host will present your travel documents, itinerary, and a detailed map to guide you through your Namibian adventure.

Day 2: Journey to the Kalahari Desert

Your road trip begins with a scenic 250 km drive southward. Departing from Windhoek, you’ll pass through Rehoboth and turn east before reaching Mariental. This route takes you into the mesmerizing red sands of the Kalahari Desert. Tonight, you’ll stay at Kalahari Anib Lodge, where a cozy Camping2Go tent awaits, offering comfort and charm in the heart of the desert.

Day 3: From the Kalahari to the Namib Desert

After breakfast, head southwest towards the world-renowned Namib Desert. Your drive will take you through the towns of Mariental and Maltahohe. As you descend the escarpment, drive cautiously—this stretch features sharp turns and steep gradients. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at your accommodation perched near the edge of the Namib dunes, perfect for a relaxing evening by the pool with views of golden mountain horizons.

Day 4: Explore Sesriem and Deadvlei

Wake early for a magical morning drive into Namib-Naukluft National Park via the Sesriem Gate. The 60 km journey toward Sossusvlei reveals surreal dune landscapes bathed in sunrise hues. While many stop at Dune 45, continuing to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei offers even more dramatic sights. If you’re not driving a 4×4, park at the 2×4 lot and walk or catch a shuttle to reach the iconic clay pans and fossilized camelthorn trees.

Day 5: Sossusvlei to Swakopmund

Today, drive northwest through the changing terrain of the Namib-Naukluft Park. Highlights include the Gaub and Kuiseb Canyons. Stop at Solitaire for fuel and a taste of its famous apple pie. Upon arriving in Swakopmund, enjoy a free evening in this charming coastal town. Optional adventure activities like sandboarding and skydiving are available and can be pre-booked or arranged upon arrival.

Day 6: Discover Swakopmund & Walvis Bay

Spend the day at your leisure exploring Swakopmund. Relax on the beach or visit Walvis Bay Lagoon, a paradise for birdwatchers with flamingos and pelicans. The town also offers shopping, museums, and historic architecture. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or action, Swakopmund caters to all interests.

Day 7: Travel to Twyfelfontein

Your journey continues north into Damaraland, a region famed for its stark beauty and dramatic rock formations. En route, pass by Brandberg, Namibia’s tallest peak. Consider joining a guided excursion at your lodge to seek out the elusive desert-adapted elephants, a unique highlight of the region.

Day 8: Into Northern Damaraland

Today’s drive brings you deeper into the untouched wilderness of northern Damaraland, heading to Palmwag Lodge. This scenic location, set among the Etendeka Mountains, offers tranquility and wildlife along the Uniab River’s tributaries. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and perhaps spot wildlife nearby.

Day 9: Into Etosha National Park

Head east toward one of Africa’s premier wildlife areas: Etosha National Park. Stop along the way to see the Petrified Forest, with fossilized trees dating back over 280 million years. Etosha’s vast salt pan and diverse ecosystems provide a habitat for countless animals, including elephants, rhinos, lions, and rare antelope species.

Day 10: Game Drives in Etosha

Enjoy a full day of game viewing in Etosha. Start early—wildlife is most active at dawn. Follow gravel roads between waterholes for your best chances of spotting animals. Take a midday break at one of the rest camps like Okaukuejo, Halali, or Namutoni, then head out again in the cooler late afternoon for more memorable sightings.

Day 11: Relax at Mushara Lodge

After intense days of safari, unwind at Mushara Lodge, located just outside Etosha’s eastern gate. The lodge’s serene setting, stylish décor, and refreshing pool offer the perfect chance to relax. Take time to browse the curio shop, read in the library, or sip drinks at the bar.

Day 12: Otjwarongo and the AfriCat Foundation

Travel south to Okonjima, home to the AfriCat Foundation, a leading conservation initiative focused on big cats like cheetahs and leopards. Enjoy optional activities such as nature drives or learning about the foundation’s work. Spend the night in this peaceful wildlife sanctuary with excellent accommodation.

Day 13: Return to Windhoek

Today you’ll make your way back to Windhoek, stopping at Okahandja to visit the famous Kavango woodcarvers market—a great spot for authentic souvenirs. As you return to the capital, take time to reflect on the natural beauty and unique experiences of your Namibian journey.

Day 14: Departure Day

After a final breakfast, you’ll have some free time for shopping or sightseeing before heading to the airport for your onward or return flight. As your self-drive safari concludes, we thank you for choosing Great Explorations Namibia. We hope your heart is full of unforgettable memories and that you return one day to explore more of this incredible country.