Enjoy the sights of the Namib Desert, including Sesriem Canyon, and search for game in Etosha National Park. Visit the remarkable Himba people on a stop at a local village and enjoy the unique scenery and wildlife of the Okavango Delta. Conclude with visits to the Chobe River and the incredible Victoria Falls. Although this is a non-camping-based safari, it still provides a very rustic experience with long drives. For the traveler who is prepared to embrace the unexpected and rough terrain, this is an excellent way to see the wonders of the continent.
This trip can operate in either direction, Windhoek to Victoria Falls, or vice versa. Please let us know what direction and dates best fit your schedule, or allow us to help you make a choice. We can also customize this trip to include camping or even high-end luxury accommodations.
On arrival in Windhoek, Namibia, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for your overnight. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore the capital city of Namibia or get some much needed rest.
Meals
None
Lodging
Safari Court Hotel (or similar)
BDays 2-3Sesriem / Sossusvlei
Today’s journey will take you north, through the ever-changing scenery, to your lodging located on the edge of the Namib Desert. Enjoy a sunset walk in the dunes surrounding your camp. Depart early the following morning for Sossusvlei, stopping in the dune belt to witness the changing colors of the world’s highest sand dunes. Embark on a 5km walk to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a short hike through the Sesriem Canyon.
Approximately 7 hours driving (460km)
Meals
2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
Lodging
Desert Camp (or similar)
CDay 4 Swakopmund
Reach the coast at Walvis Bay and enjoy lunch while viewing the many flamingos feeding (seasonal). You’ll arrive in Swakopmund and spend the afternoon and following day exploring this German colonial town or booking one of the numerous optional excursions (booked locally). Activities available include sand-boarding, quad biking, skydiving, kayaking, hot air ballooning, or scenic flights over the vast Namib Desert.
Approximately 5 hours driving (300km)
Meals
2 Breakfasts
Lodging
The Delight (or similar)
DDay 5Damaraland / Twyfelfontein
Drive inland through the Damaraland region with its vast and rugged terrain. Its mountain ranges are intercepted by wide gravel plains, which run into sandy, vegetated riverbeds, and hot, dry valleys. If very lucky, you might see the desert-adapted elephant or rhino while here. After that, we will visit Twyfelfontein area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 2000 rock carvings, and walk to view the ancient Bushman rock engravings. Our lodge is located at the top of a mountain, with spectacular views of the surrounding area. Spend the afternoon taking in the incredible setting or simply relaxing by the pool. (450km)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Ugab Terrace Lodge (or similar)
EDay 6Etosha National Park
In the morning visit with the Himba, a semi-nomadic tribe living in scattered settlements throughout the region. They are characterized by their proud yet friendly stature, and the women are noted for their beauty, enhanced by intricate hairstyles and traditional dress. Spend a few hours learning more about these fascinating people. After your visit, you will proceed to Etosha National Park for your first game drive, relaxing by the floodlit waterhole in the evening. Approximately 6 hours driving (200 km).
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Okaeujo Restcamp (or similar)
FDays 7 & 8Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park is one of the most important reserves and game sanctuaries in Africa, with thousands of wild animals such as blue wildebeest, springbok, zebra, kudu, giraffe, cheetah, leopard, lion, and elephant making this area their home. Spend the day on a game drive through the park from its western to eastern sides. Floodlit waterholes at campsites attract an abundance of animals throughout the evening, providing you with many amazing wildlife sightings.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Namutoni Restcamp (or similar)
GDay 9 San Village
The earliest known inhabitants of Namibia are the Sans. The San people at the Living Museum of the Ju/Hoansi San at Grashoek are the only ‘bushmen’ still allowed to hunt traditionally. We visit these beautiful people and learn from their ample knowledge.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
overnight at local lodge
HDays 10 & 11Kavango River
Enter the Caprivi strip, where you’ll spend the night set amongst the lush vegetation overlooking Angola and the Okavango River. An optional afternoon boat excursion is a wonderful way to see the birds and wildlife in the area. The Kavango region is home to the well-known woodcarvers. The banks of the Kavango River will be where we stay. Hear the grunts and roars of hippos many be hard close by. The next morning starts with a visit to the Mahango Game Reserve, with the exciting possibility of spotting crocodiles, elephants, hi[[ps and rate antelope like the Sable, Roan, and Sitatunga. In the afternoon, we’ll treat ourselves to a mokoro excursion in this scenic area.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hakusembe River Lodge (or similar)
IDays 12 & 13Chobe River
Today we leave Namibia for Botswana for Chobe National Park, staying on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe is famous for its beautiful scenery, magnificent sunsets, and abundance of wildlife and birdlife. We relax on a sunset game-viewing cruise on the Chobe River. You also have the option of a game drive (own account).
Meals
2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
Lodging
Chobe Safari Lodge (or similar)
JDays 14 Victoria Falls
Travel across the Zimbabwean border to Victoria Falls, where you will stay for the next several days along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. Victoria Falls (Known at Mosi-oa-Tunya – The Smoke That Thunders) is an UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans the the Zambezi between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Without a doubt, the falls are one of the greatest and most spectacular sights in Africa. These next days are yours to spend at leisure browsing the local markets or experiencing some of the many optional activities on offer in this adrenaline capital of Africa: white water rafting, bungee jumping, micro-lighting, airplane or helicopter flights over the falls, rhino and lion walks, and visiting the falls on foot along extensive trails (all activities booked locally).
Your travel time to Victoria Falls is approximately 2-4 hours with ferry/border crossing (80km)
Meals
2 Breakfasts
Lodging
A'Zambezi River Lodge (or similar)
KDay 15Depart
After breakfast, depart for the airport to catch your onward flight. So long, Africa!
Meals
Breakfast
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Enjoy the sights of the Namib Desert, including Sesriem Canyon, and search for game in Etosha National Park. Visit the remarkable Himba people on a stop at a local village and enjoy the unique scenery and wildlife of the Okavango Delta. Conclude with visits to the Chobe River and the incredible Victoria Falls. Although this is a non-camping-based safari, it still provides a very rustic experience with long drives. For the traveler who is prepared to embrace the unexpected and rough terrain, this is an excellent way to see the wonders of the continent.
This trip can operate in either direction, Windhoek to Victoria Falls, or vice versa. Please let us know what direction and dates best fit your schedule, or allow us to help you make a choice. We can also customize this trip to include camping or even high-end luxury accommodations.
On arrival in Windhoek, Namibia, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for your overnight. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore the capital city of Namibia or get some much needed rest.
Meals
None
Lodging
Safari Court Hotel (or similar)
BDays 2-3Sesriem / Sossusvlei
Today’s journey will take you north, through the ever-changing scenery, to your lodging located on the edge of the Namib Desert. Enjoy a sunset walk in the dunes surrounding your camp. Depart early the following morning for Sossusvlei, stopping in the dune belt to witness the changing colors of the world’s highest sand dunes. Embark on a 5km walk to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a short hike through the Sesriem Canyon.
Approximately 7 hours driving (460km)
Meals
2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
Lodging
Desert Camp (or similar)
CDay 4 Swakopmund
Reach the coast at Walvis Bay and enjoy lunch while viewing the many flamingos feeding (seasonal). You’ll arrive in Swakopmund and spend the afternoon and following day exploring this German colonial town or booking one of the numerous optional excursions (booked locally). Activities available include sand-boarding, quad biking, skydiving, kayaking, hot air ballooning, or scenic flights over the vast Namib Desert.
Approximately 5 hours driving (300km)
Meals
2 Breakfasts
Lodging
The Delight (or similar)
DDay 5Damaraland / Twyfelfontein
Drive inland through the Damaraland region with its vast and rugged terrain. Its mountain ranges are intercepted by wide gravel plains, which run into sandy, vegetated riverbeds, and hot, dry valleys. If very lucky, you might see the desert-adapted elephant or rhino while here. After that, we will visit Twyfelfontein area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 2000 rock carvings, and walk to view the ancient Bushman rock engravings. Our lodge is located at the top of a mountain, with spectacular views of the surrounding area. Spend the afternoon taking in the incredible setting or simply relaxing by the pool. (450km)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Ugab Terrace Lodge (or similar)
EDay 6Etosha National Park
In the morning visit with the Himba, a semi-nomadic tribe living in scattered settlements throughout the region. They are characterized by their proud yet friendly stature, and the women are noted for their beauty, enhanced by intricate hairstyles and traditional dress. Spend a few hours learning more about these fascinating people. After your visit, you will proceed to Etosha National Park for your first game drive, relaxing by the floodlit waterhole in the evening. Approximately 6 hours driving (200 km).
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Okaeujo Restcamp (or similar)
FDays 7 & 8Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park is one of the most important reserves and game sanctuaries in Africa, with thousands of wild animals such as blue wildebeest, springbok, zebra, kudu, giraffe, cheetah, leopard, lion, and elephant making this area their home. Spend the day on a game drive through the park from its western to eastern sides. Floodlit waterholes at campsites attract an abundance of animals throughout the evening, providing you with many amazing wildlife sightings.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Namutoni Restcamp (or similar)
GDay 9 San Village
The earliest known inhabitants of Namibia are the Sans. The San people at the Living Museum of the Ju/Hoansi San at Grashoek are the only ‘bushmen’ still allowed to hunt traditionally. We visit these beautiful people and learn from their ample knowledge.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
overnight at local lodge
HDays 10 & 11Kavango River
Enter the Caprivi strip, where you’ll spend the night set amongst the lush vegetation overlooking Angola and the Okavango River. An optional afternoon boat excursion is a wonderful way to see the birds and wildlife in the area. The Kavango region is home to the well-known woodcarvers. The banks of the Kavango River will be where we stay. Hear the grunts and roars of hippos many be hard close by. The next morning starts with a visit to the Mahango Game Reserve, with the exciting possibility of spotting crocodiles, elephants, hi[[ps and rate antelope like the Sable, Roan, and Sitatunga. In the afternoon, we’ll treat ourselves to a mokoro excursion in this scenic area.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hakusembe River Lodge (or similar)
IDays 12 & 13Chobe River
Today we leave Namibia for Botswana for Chobe National Park, staying on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe is famous for its beautiful scenery, magnificent sunsets, and abundance of wildlife and birdlife. We relax on a sunset game-viewing cruise on the Chobe River. You also have the option of a game drive (own account).
Meals
2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
Lodging
Chobe Safari Lodge (or similar)
JDays 14 Victoria Falls
Travel across the Zimbabwean border to Victoria Falls, where you will stay for the next several days along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. Victoria Falls (Known at Mosi-oa-Tunya – The Smoke That Thunders) is an UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans the the Zambezi between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Without a doubt, the falls are one of the greatest and most spectacular sights in Africa. These next days are yours to spend at leisure browsing the local markets or experiencing some of the many optional activities on offer in this adrenaline capital of Africa: white water rafting, bungee jumping, micro-lighting, airplane or helicopter flights over the falls, rhino and lion walks, and visiting the falls on foot along extensive trails (all activities booked locally).
Your travel time to Victoria Falls is approximately 2-4 hours with ferry/border crossing (80km)
Meals
2 Breakfasts
Lodging
A'Zambezi River Lodge (or similar)
KDay 15Depart
After breakfast, depart for the airport to catch your onward flight. So long, Africa!
Meals
Breakfast
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Rates Per Person
Need to Know
Rates Per Person -
Land Cost
$6500 - $8,995
Single Supplement
+ $795
Land Cost does not include Local Park Fees and some activities, payable on arrival (approximately $115).
The land cost published is for the stated itinerary and is subject to change. This covers accommodations, transfers, activities, touring, guide services and meals as described in the full itinerary.
For a custom & private adventure, the final cost will be based on the activities selected, trip duration, accommodations, etc. Developing an initial custom trip itinerary is a service we provide to all clients at no cost. If after development of the initial itinerary you request additional development but are not ready to make a deposit, a trip planning fee may apply.
This trip is offered in both directions, either Windhoek to Victoria Falls, or vice versa. Please let us know what direction and dates best fit your schedule, or allow us to help you make a choice.
This tour is recommended for healthy, active participants looking for an adventurous holiday.
Expenses covered
Normally, our stated land costs include the cost of all guides, leaders, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, food and entry fees as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the planned itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but, rarely, factors beyond our control might require us to change our prices without prior notice, even after you have signed up.
Expenses not covered
Costs not included in the price may include: meals not indicated as included in itineraries; meals prior to arrival in starting cities; transfers, if not arriving or departing on the scheduled group flights; soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages; medical expenses, costs of hospitalization, or evacuation from remote areas; laundry; airport departure taxes not included on your airline ticket; accommodations en route to starting cities; visas; airfares; gratuities; and insurance.
Deposit and payment schedule
A non-refundable twenty-five percent (25%) deposit per person per trip or the applicable amount based on the trip and the proximity of the departure date. A second deposit of $1,000 per person is due four months prior to departure, and final payment for land arrangements is due 60 days prior to departure. Airlines require full payment when tickets are issued. The deposit may be made by Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover or check, and the Reservation Form may be submitted via our website. Full payment schedule and cancellation penalties are described in our Terms and Conditions as noted on our website and elsewhere. Please request these if you do not have them before advancing a deposit.
Insurance
While we strongly recommend the purchase of comprehensive travel insurance in case of emergency situations for all of our trips, note that for this particular trip, COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL INSURANCE IS COMPULSORY FOR ALL PASSENGERS TRAVELLING ON SAFARIS! It is the client’s sole responsibility to ensure that they carry the correct and sufficient comprehensive travel and medical travel insurance for themselves and any dependants/traveling companions. This insurance should cover, but not be limited to, cancellation and curtailment, baggage loss or damage, medical expenses, emergency travel, repatriation with assistance and personal accident. It should be taken out prior to leaving their country of residence. Please contact Journeys for assistance in choosing a policy.
Airfare
We can help you secure air travel arrangements to correspond with land travel booked through Journeys International. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. If you decide to make your own flight arrangements, you must provide Journeys International with a complete copy of your itinerary showing departure and arrival flights and times. You should plan to arrange your own air travel if you are using mileage credit or originating outside North America, but please be in touch with our office before you finalize ticketing so that we can help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times.
Itinerary Change Fee
There will be a $40 fee for changes once an itinerary has been confirmed and approved. Additional cancellation penalties or change fees may apply as per our terms and conditions. The passenger is responsible for such fees.
Duration 15 Days
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. This is the time period covered by the land cost.
Group Size 2 - 12
Comfort Level
Delightful
Comfortable hotels, chalets and small lodges
Activity Level
Active
Easy walking & optional hiking
Why Journeys International
Our purpose is to understand the journey you are on – not just the vacation you want to take – and to help you on your way.
We are here to help you plan the trip that will move you closer to your goals and help you fulfill your dreams.
We are here to help you plan a more inspiring, more provocative, more breathtaking, more transformational adventure.
We say “adventure” and not “trip” because, for us, a trip is just going someplace else, but an adventure is an experience that takes you someplace beyond your comfort zone – and therefore maximizes the potential for wonder, discovery, and potentially transformation.
Why trust Journeys to plan that kind of experience with you?
Journeys is an award-winning industry-leader with more than 40 years in business planning creative and thoughtful adventures in interesting places around the world
Our staff is professional and devoted, with adventure specialists in Ann Arbor and guides in the field who take pride in traveler satisfaction; many stay with us for decades
Our Ecological Code of Ethics has long stood as a model for others, and our Earth Preservation Fund puts our money where our mouth is
We go to the farthest corners of the earth – you’ll see some pretty remote destinations on our list, and if you want to challenge us with something new, we’ll likely be willing (though we’ll make sure you know if we’ve never experienced it firsthand)
We’re real people like you, starting with the real person who will answer the phone, right through the owner, Robin Pollak, who you can talk to any time you want (or even her parents, Joan & Will Weber, who started the company!)
We ask lots of questions and get to know you as well as possible to we can design the best experience for YOU
Your unique itinerary includes sites, accommodations, activities, and meetings with people hand selected for personal goals, passions, interests and abilities
Your personal adventure specialist stays with you from trip planning through departure to answer all your questions – promptly – and make sure every detail is handled so you are well prepared for your trip
Our partners on the ground in your destination will welcome you as a friend of a friend; we’ve been working with many of them for ages
We’re open and clear, and offer a complete picture of what you can expect while traveling. We don’t want to make an easy sale; we want to make an honest one.
24-hour emergency phone support while traveling
We’ll be excited to hear about the trip when you get back, and take all feedback seriously
Our travelers come back again and again, for five, ten, or more adventures — and they trust us enough to send their friends to us, too
We love what we do, and we love sharing our common passion with you.