The Namibian Classics
Experiences
Highlights
Have your camera ready because every stop of this journey is Insta-worthy! Enjoy Sossusvlei’s breathtaking dunes or check out the petrified camel thorn trees at Deadvlei. Then, break off to Swakopmund for sandy activities and beach views before meeting Etosha’s wildlife.
Best time to travel
Trip route
Trip overview
After you collect your car at Hosea Kutako International Airport, you’re all set to drive the short distance to the capital. Given its proximity, this drive tends to form part of many epic Namibian odysseys.
Balancing tradition and modernity, Windhoek is a great stop for travellers visiting Namibia. Maintaining its German colonial character, this neat capital treats you with vibrant architecture, varied cuisine and delicious Namibian beer.
Hotel
Goche Ganas Lodge
Luxury lodge and wellness center with stunning view inside private game reserve
You’ll be departing on a relatively straight line south from Windhoek towards the red sands of the Kalahari. This route meanders along the country’s national highway, passing Rehoboth and the Tropic of Capricorn en route.
The Kalahari Desert is a place of boundless beauty, overrun with bare rocks and gorgeous dunes. Take a journey here, and you will find yourself in a landscape and culture unlike any other.
Hotel
Zebra Kalahari Lodge
Luxury lodge inside private game reserve with unmatched game viewing
This west-bound route makes for one of the longer drives, but Sossusvlei’s famed sand dunes will make it worth your while. Split up the trip by stopping in Mariental for a refill and refresh.
Namibia’s most celebrated destination and home of iconic dunes, Sossusvlei is on everyone’s bucket list. Aside from hiking, explore the breathtaking Deadvlei or the Sesriem Canyon - naturally paved over millions of years.
Hotel
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Exclusive lodge on the bank of Tsauchab River close to Sossusvlei gate
This unique route meanders past the burned orange dunes of the Namib desert. Highlights include crossing through the Tropic of Capricorn, pastries in Solitaire, and the moon-like landscape of the Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Welcome to Namibia’s adventure and extreme sports capital. Favoured by travellers and locals alike for its rich history and vibrance, this German-influenced town and its lively beach make for the perfect summer destination.
Hotel
Villa Margherita
Cozy boutique hotel in the heart of Swakopmund
The most-direct route heading north is on dirt roads. Damaraland is very remote so make sure to fill up your tank and replenish any supplies for the rocky paradise ahead.
Home to the highest mountain in Namibia, Damaraland is a remote, rugged, and arid landscape. Its beauty lies in its sense of prehistory with ancient rock formations, San engravings, and free-roaming black rhinos.
Hotel
Ondundu Etosha Lodge
Luxury tented camps with picturesque view close to western Etosha National Park
This road north will take you to Namibia’s most famous wildlife spot! Tip: Have a read about the different waterholes and types of animals to look out for when you arrive.
Etosha National Park South sets the scene for Namibia’s foremost wildlife showcase. Here, a series of waterholes guarantee spectacular game viewing, flanked by mystical, open grasslands along the edges of the inhospitable Etosha Pan.
Hotel
Etosha Safari Camp
Convenient and hearty base to explore Etosha National Park
The road ahead is well-maintained and easy. There are two main towns along the way where you can stop for a coffee, and we recommend the bakery in Outjo for delicous baked goods.
The Waterberg Mountain forms the centre of the greater Waterberg area and is one of the main attractions in Namibia. This massif rises from the plains and encompasses a national park, trails and several camps.
Hotel
Babson House @ Cheetah Conservation Fund
Luxurious stay at Waterberg National Park with unmatched cheetah experience
Say goodbye to the lush and mountainous Waterberg region - it’s time to rejoin the lively city. The most direct route is straight south on the B1. For a scenic drive, take the route on the east side instead of the highway on the west.
Balancing tradition and modernity, Windhoek is a great stop for travellers visiting Namibia. Maintaining its German colonial character, this neat capital treats you with vibrant architecture, varied cuisine and delicious Namibian beer.
Hotel
The Elegant Guesthouse
Small, eco-friendly guesthouse close to Windhoek’s bustling city centre
Going to the airport typically signifies the end of the journey, but it certainly won’t be the last. Look out of the window and take in the surroundings before you take off.