Namibia self-drive — Camping
Take the wheel and set off to conquer wild Namibie. From the immense dunes of the Namib to the game-rich plains of Etosha, 12 days of self-drive camping in the heart of raw and uncompromising nature.
Duration
12 days
From
€1,685/pers.
Ideal seasons
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Style
Self-drive tour
Comfort
rustique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
Set off on an adventure in Namibia at the wheel of your camping-equipped vehicle and discover a country with spectacular landscapes in complete freedom. This itinerary takes you through Namibia's vast open spaces, between the red dunes of Sossusvlei, the wild Atlantic coast, the rocky landscapes of Damaraland and safaris in the heart of Etosha National Park.
Sleep close to nature in equipped campsites, prepare your meals outdoors and enjoy an immersive experience at the pace of the landscapes you travel through. Camping self-drive allows you to get off the beaten path and take time to explore the tracks, viewpoints and must-see sites in the country.
An ideal formula for independent travelers who want to experience Namibia differently, with a good balance between adventure, discovery and freedom of movement.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Windhoek
Hosea Kutako International Airport → Windhoek
Arrival at Windhoek international airport. English-speaking reception at the rental office by your local guide, who will assist you in obtaining a vehicle from the rental company and will hand over your travel documents.
Drive to the city of Windhoek, capital of Namibia. This city, nestled between hills and savanna, is the economic and cultural heart of the country. You will discover architecture blending German colonial influences and modern constructions, as well as a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Arrival and check-in at your hotel. Depending on the time, you can enjoy free time to explore the surroundings: stroll through the city center, visit the Christuskirche church, discover the craft market or relax in one of the lively cafés.
Windhoek / Namib Desert
Early morning departure for a crossing through spectacular landscapes towards the legendary Namib desert, considered one of the oldest deserts in the world. Arrival at the campsite located inside the park and settlement in the heart of a grandiose setting, dominated by red dunes and vast wild expanses stretching as far as the eye can see.
The afternoon is free to enjoy the surroundings at your own pace: relaxation at the campsite, a walk in the silence of the desert or simple contemplation of the unique panorama of shifting sands and infinite horizons (entrance fees to be paid on site).
As night falls, the desert transforms into a living canvas of golden lights and changing shadows, offering a magical atmosphere before nightfall.
Windhoek → Sesriem
Sesriem → Sossusvlei
Namib Desert
Early morning departure with your own vehicle from the circuit base for an excursion to Sossusvlei. The Namib Desert and the Sossusvlei region offer some of the most iconic landscapes in Namibie. Its immense red dunes, among the highest in the world, create spectacular plays of light at sunrise.
Must-see sites such as Deadvlei, Dune 45, Big Daddy and the Sesriem canyon reveal all the striking beauty of this ancient desert. Despite its aridity, the region is home to wildlife perfectly adapted to the environment, including oryx, springbok and ostrich.
The nights there are exceptionally clear, ideal for stargazing, offering an unforgettable celestial spectacle.
Namib Desert / Swakopmund
Sesriem → Swakopmund
Morning drive through the contrasting landscapes of the desert and the Atlantic coast heading to Swakopmund, a charming seaside town with a Germanic style. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel located between dunes and ocean. The afternoon is free to enjoy the surroundings: stroll through the lively streets, admire the colonial architecture, walk along the beach or simply savor the unique atmosphere of this town where the desert meets the sea.
Swakopmund
Departure for a boat excursion live unforgettable encounters with Namibian marine wildlife. In addition to seals and rescued pelicans that often join passengers, you will be able to observe dolphins, whales from this 3 hour 30 minute cruise. In the afternoon, 4x4 excursion to Sandwich Harbour. This is a 4x4 excursion that crosses the salt pans and enters the Namib-Naukluft park, "where the ocean and the desert meet". Our last stop is Sandwich Harbour lagoon. This thrilling excursion will allow you to experience an unforgettable moment: our guides will demonstrate their expertise by climbing massive dunes.
Light lunch in the form of brunch in the dunes.
Swakopmund is an elegant coastal town nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the desert dunes. Its German-influenced architecture, cool climate and relaxed atmosphere make it an essential stop. The town is a true hub of activities: sea trips to observe dolphins and sea lions, sandboarding, quad biking in the dunes, kayaking and panoramic flights over the Skeleton Coast. Cafés, craft markets and excellent restaurants complete the experience. Swakopmund is the ideal place to recharge and enjoy a unique blend of culture, ocean and adventure.
Swakopmund → Walvis Bay
Walvis Bay → Swakopmund
Swakopmund / Damaraland
Road to the Damaraland region, a wild and spectacular territory, characterized by its steep mountains, dried valleys and impressive rock formations.
Arrival and accommodation at the lodge, nestled in a unique mineral setting.
Around 3:00 PM, departure for a guided excursion with the lodge vehicle and guide, in search of the famous desert elephants in the Huab river bed. These pachyderms, perfectly adapted to arid conditions, travel long distances to find water and food. Observing their adaptation to this hostile environment is a rare and fascinating experience.
Along the way, you can also admire the grandiose landscapes of Damaraland, dotted with sparse vegetation, rock formations with reddish hues and sometimes encounters with other species such as oryx, springboks or even giraffes.
Damaraland Camp / Etosha
Twyfelfontein → Parc national d'Etosha
Visit of the Twyfelfontein site (entrance fee to be paid on site), listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This archaeological site is famous for its rock engravings thousands of years old, created by the San peoples. They depict animals, hunting tracks and spiritual symbols, offering a fascinating testimony to prehistoric life in the region.
Continuation by road towards Etosha National Park, one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in southern Africa. The journey crosses varied landscapes, ranging from the mountains of Damaraland to the vast plains that herald entry into the park.
Arrival and lodge check-in in early afternoon. Free time to enjoy the surroundings: relaxation by the pool, observing animals coming to drink at nearby water points, or simply contemplating the endless landscapes. In the evening, you can enjoy dinner in a peaceful atmosphere, a prelude to tomorrow's safaris.
Etosha
Parc national d'Etosha → Parc national d'Etosha
Departure for a safari with your rental vehicle in Etosha Park, crossing through the park towards the east side (park entrance fee to be paid on-site).
The Etosha National Park is one of the largest reserves in southern Africa, famous for its vast salt depression, the Etosha Pan, visible from space. This park offers exceptional safaris thanks to its abundant wildlife: elephants, lions, black rhinoceros, giraffes, zebras and large herds of antelope. Water points attract animals throughout the day, offering spectacular viewing, especially at sunset. Etosha is an essential stop for experiencing one of Namibie's best safaris.
Arrival at the lodge and settlement at your camping site.
Etosha
As an optional add-on, you can take a non-private guided safari in the Etosha National Park with the lodge's guide and vehicle. This option allows you to benefit from the expertise of local rangers, who know the wildlife concentration areas perfectly and increase your chances of observing large predators or more elusive species.
Or alternatively, depart with your circuit vehicle for a safari in the park (entrance fee to be paid on site). This option gives you more freedom and the ability to explore the tracks at your own pace, stopping at watering holes to observe elephants, zebras, wildebeest and sometimes rhinoceros.
Etosha / Otjiwarongo
Parc national d'Etosha → Otjiwarongo
Route towards the south heading to Tsumeb and Otjiwarongo. The journey crosses varied landscapes, ranging from open savannas to agricultural areas, dotted with traditional villages that offer a glimpse of local Namibian life.
Arrival at the lodge and check-in. You will be able to enjoy a moment of relaxation in a peaceful setting, often surrounded by nature and conducive to bird watching or observing animals coming to drink nearby.
In the afternoon, as an optional activity with an additional fee, you have the possibility to participate in a guided non-private safari in the lodge's private reserve. This experience allows you to explore an exclusive territory, less frequented than large parks, and to observe varied wildlife in a preserved environment. The sunset over the savanna adds a magical atmosphere, ideal for your final photos and memories of the day.
Otjiwarongo / Windhoek
Free morning to enjoy the camping site, Departure towards the city of Windhoek crossing the town of Okahandja. In Okahandja, weather permitting, you can stop at the craft center in town to have the opportunity to buy souvenirs. Continuation towards the city of Windhoek and check-in at the lodge.
Windhoek / Departure
Windhoek → Windhoek Airport
Route to Windhoek airport for your return flight.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- The English-speaking guide
- Tips at the lodge and for lodge guides
- Everything You Buy in Souvenir Shops
Included
- Reception and assistance at the airport by an English-speaking guide
- A Toyota Hilux Double cab 4x4 rental vehicle (super cover) Budget with camping materials maximum 4 persons – subject to availability
- Preferences as mentioned in the program – subject to availability
- Activities as mentioned in the program – subject to availability
- Small gift per person and map of Namibia per room
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Namibia for a tourist stay. As entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Namibia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry into the country and contain at least two to three blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without a visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in Namibia.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days per 12-month period. The authorized length of stay is specified by the immigration officer upon entry into the territory.
The authorities may request:
a departure ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of the stay,
confirmation of an accommodation booking or a travel itinerary.
Arrival card
Upon arrival in Namibia, you will be asked to complete an entry form (arrival card) which is generally provided on the plane or available at border posts and international airports.
This form requires in particular:
passport information,
details of the flight or means of transport used,
the address of your first accommodation in Namibia,
the expected length of stay.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Namibia except from a country at risk of yellow fever, in which case an international yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
As a precaution, it is recommended that you consult a doctor or vaccination center before departure. The following vaccinations are generally advised:
hepatitis A and B,
typhoid,
tetanus-diphtheria-poliomyelitis.
Antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly recommended for trips to the north of the country, particularly in the Caprivi (Zambezi), Kavango and Etosha regions. Consult your doctor for treatment suited to your situation.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
Namibia applies strict rules regarding travel by minors. When a child travels with a single parent or without their parents, it is strongly recommended that you carry:
a travel authorization signed by the other parent or by both parents in the case of travel with a third party,
the child's original birth certificate,
proof of family situation where applicable (custody order, death certificate, etc.).
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should contact the embassy or consulate of Namibia in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and foreign medical expenses.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and procedures for filing a claim are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To stay in Namibia, a valid passport with at least 6 months validity after entry and at least three blank pages is required. Visa exemption applies for certain nationalities for a limited period. Entry conditions may change: check with Namibian consular authorities the rules applicable to your nationality before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 230 and 380 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, 4x4 rental and activities. International flights (900-1300 euros return) are additional. The self-drive 4x4 with roof-top camping is Namibia's iconic experience.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each circuit to match our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, educational and entertaining activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Namib Desert
Connoisseur of Namibia's vast horizons, based in Windhoek
Namibia is not a country you visit in a hurry. Here, distances, silence and light are an integral part of the journey.
— Delphin
