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Self-drive Untamed Adventure
For 2 persons: starting from €1,790 per person
For 4 persons: starting from €1,390 per person
Moderate pace
During your journey, you will also have the opportunity to engage with local communities, discovering their traditions and way of life, thereby enriching your experience. Travel independently in a vehicle equipped with a rooftop tent for a complete immersion in nature. Each night, marvel at the stars in spectacular locations, and rest in lodges and guesthouses that offer comfort and hospitality after a day filled with adventure.
Itinerary for the Self-drive Safari in Freedom.
- Day 1 – Windhoek
- Day 2-3 – Etosha / Namutoni
- Day 4 – Etosha / Okaukuejo
- Day 4 – Etosha / Halali
- Day 5 – Kamandjab
- Days 6-7 – Epupa Falls / Kaokoland
- Day 8 – Sesfontein / Koakolaland
- Day 9 – Tsaurab Valley / Damaraland
- Day 10-11 – Swakopmund / Skeleton Coast
- Days 12-13 – Sesriem / Namib Desert
- Day 14 – Mariental / Kalahari Desert
- Day 15 – Windhoek
- Day 16 – Windhoek / Airport
Day 1 : Windhoek
Upon your arrival in Windhoek, welcome to Namibia! Your self-drive safari commences in the capital city of the country. After retrieving your vehicle, take a moment to acclimatize to driving on the left side of the road. Explore the city, immerse yourself in the local culture, and stock up your refrigerator.
Night : Windhoek Lodge
Days 2 & 3 : Windhoek – Etosha (Namutoni)
On your journey towards Etosha, you will encounter an expanse of 20,000 square kilometers, featuring a vast salt pan. This area is regarded as one of Africa’s most stunning wildlife reserves, home to 114 species of mammals and 340 varieties of birds. From the comfort of your 4×4, you will have the opportunity to observe numerous animals as they come to drink at the waterholes. The Tamboti campsite is situated within the Onguma Game Reserve, located in the northeastern border of Etosha.
Nights : Onguma Tamboti campsite
Day 4 : Etosha (Namutoni) – Etosha (Okaukuejo)
To maximize your chances of observing wildlife, it is essential to attune yourself to the rhythm of nature. It is during the early morning and at sunset that animals are most active. Embark on your 4×4 for a second day of safari in pursuit of felines, elephants, springboks, impalas, giraffes, and rhinoceroses.
It is in this region of the park that the concentration of rhinoceroses is at its highest. Traverse the trails, inhale the distinctive scents and fragrances, and feel the vibrant pulse of wildlife surrounding you.
Night : Okaukuejo Campsite
Information: As the sun sets and throughout the night, you may observe elephants, lions, and rhinoceroses quenching their thirst at the renowned waterhole of Okaukuejo. Nestled comfortably in your tent, you might have the fortune of hearing the haunting calls of hyenas and lions.
Day 5 : Etosha (Okaukuejo) – Hobatere Lodge (Damaraland)
Journey through Etosha Park from east to west for a final immersion in this magnificent reserve. You will exit Etosha via the Galton Gate. Your accommodation awaits at Hobatere Conservancy, a community conservation area established and managed by the local inhabitants of this region.
Night : Hobatere Lodge, with dinner and breakfast included.
Days 6 & 7: Hobatere Lodge (Damaraland) – Epupa Falls (Kaokoland)
Departure for Epupa Falls on the Angolan border to visit the homeland of the Himba, one of the last nomadic tribes. Stop at Opuwo to gather supplies in preparation for visiting Himba villages and encounters (shopping list and advice provided upon reservation).
The Epupa Falls are easily accessible on foot. A natural trail allows you to walk along the Kunene River downstream from the falls, offering a unique opportunity to discover this fascinating region. You will lodge on the banks of the Kunene River. In this remote area, the young people spend their days tending to livestock, an ancestral way of life in perfect harmony with the surrounding natural environment.
You will have the opportunity to visit a Himba village and engage with this ancient culture. We will provide you with a list of recommended Himba guides and interpreters.
Nights : Omarunga Campsite
Day 8: Epupa Falls (Kaokoland) – Sesfontein (Kaokoland)
Continue your journey south for a day of exploration in the hills of Kaokoland. Near the village of Sesfontein, the Hoanib River reveals spectacular landscapes. You will traverse Himba territory, dotted with picturesque villages along the paths.
Night : Khowarib Lodge & Camp
Day 9 : Sesfontein (Koakolaland) – Tsaurab Valley (Damaraland)
A new region unfolds before you. Damaraland, with its vast expanses and locations marked by history for millennia. Head towards the Tsaurab Valley Eco Camping, operated by EHRA (Elephant Human Relations Aid), situated 50 kilometers north of the village of Uis, nestled between the Brandberg massif and Twyfelfontein. It overlooks the Ugab River valley and offers breathtaking views amidst a magnificent array of granite boulders. This exclusive campsite can accommodate a maximum of 8 to 10 people, yet is always reserved privately, ensuring your solitude in this enchanting wilderness.
Night : Tsaurab Valley – Campsite
Information: A location highly favored by desert elephants. The nights are particularly starlit, offering a truly unique experience.
Days 10 & 11 : Tsaurab Valley – Swakopmund (Skeleton Coast)
Departing towards Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast, a guaranteed shift in atmosphere and temperature awaits. Revel in this charming seaside resort and its cooler climate. Enjoy the opportunity to shop while exploring Swakopmund on foot. Discover the remarkable biodiversity of the Walvis Bay lagoon, often referred to as the “African Malibu.”
Nights: Swakopmund – Pebble Stone House, with breakfasts included.
Information: A myriad of activities available, including kayaking, catamaran sailing, quad biking, cycling, 4×4 excursions in the Sandwich Harbour dunes, scenic flights, sandboarding, and more.
Days 12 & 13 : Swakopmund – Sesriem (Namib Desert)
- Day 12: Depart towards the Namib Desert, which stretches over 2,000 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. You will traverse the Kuiseb Pass before entering the Namib-Naukluft National Park. You will cross the Tropic of Capricorn, where you can capture a photograph in front of the iconic sign. We highly recommend a stop at Solitaire at the “Baghdad Café” of Namibia, to savor the finest apple pies in the country.
- Day 13 : Depart at dawn to avoid the midday heat. A 60-kilometer drive leads you to Deadvlei, surrounded by some of the most exquisite dunes in the world. The red dunes of the Namib are often referred to as “Perfect Dunes.” Explore the sites of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, where you can ascend Dune 45 and stroll through the vast pan among its petrified trees. For the more intrepid, the ascent of one of the world’s tallest dunes awaits, rising to a height of 320 meters. Discover the Sesriem Canyon, located not far from the park entrance.
Nights : Sesriem – Sossus Oasis Campsite
Day 14 : Sesriem (Namib Desert) – Mariental (Kalahari Desert)
Traveling in your 4×4, head east towards the Kalahari Desert. The Kalahari is a vast arid expanse sheltering red dunes, unique wildlife, and the San people, also known as Bushmen, guardians of ancient traditions and desert secrets.
Night : Mariental – Bagatelle Kalahari Ranch
Information: The lodge organizes safaris (cheetahs, rhinos, and sunset cocktails in the dunes) and horseback safaris to observe wildlife. Morning walks with representatives of the San people (Bushmen) are also available.
Day 15 : Mariental (Kalahari Desert) – Windhoek
An opportunity to embark on a morning walk accompanied by members of the San people (Bushmen) to gain insight into their culture and survival methods. Departing towards Windhoek.
Seize the final moments to indulge in shopping; the craft center boasts an excellent array of local artisanal products. If shopping is not to your liking, you may simply relish a freshly made smoothie.
Night: Hotel Windhoek, breakfast included.
Day 16 : Windhoek
Your road trip has come to an end. The circle is complete as you head towards Windhoek. Return the rental vehicle and transfer to Windhoek International Airport. The entire Matakwa Safaris team wishes you a safe journey home.
Our other self-drive tours
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Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a self-drive tour in Namibia, commencing in the Kalahari Desert. Meet the San people, known as the Bushmen. Discover the vastness of the Namib Desert, the enigmatic Skeleton Coast, traverse the rugged Kaokoland, and conclude your journey at the magnificent Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
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Self-Drive Tour: "Namibia and Victoria Falls"
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Set off in your 4x4 to explore Namibia, beginning at the renowned Etosha National Park. Next, journey into the lands of the Himba people, uncover the wonders of Damaraland, and traverse the haunting Skeleton Coast. Continue through the Namib Desert and head south to witness the breathtaking Fish River Canyon. Finally, visit the Kalahari Desert, the ancestral territory of the San people.
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Take advantage of our expert advice and uncover unique, carefully curated destinations.