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Aptly named after the Namib—the oldest desert on the planet and a sea of red sand along the Atlantic coastline—Namibia is celebrated for its vast open landscapes, infinite supply of blue skies, sun-drenched weather, and star-filled nights. It is a beautiful country meant for exploring, and a custom Namibia tour with Boundless Journeys allows you to explore at your own pace.
Over the years, a number of cultural influences have added to the unique atmosphere of Namibia. At various times Germany, Great Britain, and South Africa have all governed the territory, but it was through the eventual independence of Namibia in 1990 that the country was able to develop its multicultural character and reinvent itself. There is a distinctive Namibian character that freely blends African styles with European influences in architecture, food, customs, and art.
All this is in interesting juxtaposition with the expansive desert landscapes that surround the cities. The many national parks and game reserves boast a huge variety of wildlife in a kaleidoscope of differing environments: the white saltpans of Etosha National Park, the red dunes of Sossusvlei, lonely beaches along the Skeleton Coast, and the virtually uninhabited wilderness of Kunene. Astonishing contrasts are everywhere for you to savor on a Boundless Journeys custom tour of Namibia.
Why Trust Your Custom African Safari to Boundless Journeys?To develop a collection of truly unique safaris, Boundless Journeys has partnered with some of the best safari outfitters in Southern and Eastern Africa. In addition to experienced guides, first-class vehicles, and a diverse selection of camp and lodge options, our partners’ conservation efforts and community-mindedness are great matches for Boundless Journeys’ core philosophy.
Based on our years of designing custom safaris to Namibia, we believe that the combinations below deliver the best experiences in each region. Our Boundless Journeys trip specialists can further customize these options to match the interests of your group, and can mix and match the experiences below. Don't worry: If you don't see what you are looking for, there are many more options to explore! Give us a call at 1-800-941-8010 to start the conversation.
Located in northern Namibia, Etosha National Park is a contrasting landscape of woodlands, acacia-strewn plains, and grasslands. But its most defining characteristic is the Pan: over 2,400 square miles of a parched, white salt pan that can even be seen from space.
While there is very little vegetation here, fringing the Pan are a number of waterholes that support over 150 mammal species, including lion, elephant, and huge herds of zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, and springbok, as well as rare and endangered species such as the black rhino, tsessebe, gemsbok, and black-faced impala.
Situated in the southern part the Namib Desert, the Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by a kaleidoscope of sand dunes. These dunes – which vary from vivid pink to vibrant orange to bright red in color – are among the highest in the world. Many of them are above 650 feet, including the one nicknamed "Big Daddy", which stands about 1,250 feet high. Due to its fascinating and surreal landscapes, Sossusvlei is one of the most famous attractions in Namibia and one of the most photographed places in all of Africa.
Considered on of the most scenic areas in Namibia, Damaraland is also one of the most accessible wildlife destinations in Africa, where the animals roam free. It’s common to see desert-adapted elephants, lions, zebra, and giraffe and gemsbok, as well as black rhino, especially since its population is one of the fastest growing on the continent.
The landscape of Damaraland is as impressive as its wildlife, with striking geological formations, giant inselbergs, hilly savannahs, and ancient petroglyphs that date back over 7,000 years.
Epic landscapes, remote coastline, and some of Africa's rarest wildlife are ours to discover on this Namibia safari embracing the desert from its towering red dunes to hidden canyons.
Sossusvlei | Damaraland | Etosha
Day 1: Bush flight to safari camp near Namib-Naukluft National Park; evening stargazingDay 2: Sunrise exploration of Sossusvlei Dunes; optional hike up "Big Daddy"Day 3: Optional hot air balloon flight over the Sand Sea; visit Dead VleiDay 4: Bush flight to safari camp in Damaraland; afternoon safari activityDays 5-6: Game drives and guided bush walks in private areasDay 7: Bush flight to Ongava Game Reserve bordering Etosha National Park; afternoon game driveDays 8-9: Game drives and guided bush walks in private reserve areas and Etosha National ParkDay 10: Bush flight to Windhoek for departure
Formerly know as the Kaokoveld, the Kunene Region in northwest Namibia is one of the harshest environments on Earth, with ancient valleys, endless vistas across stark plains, craggy ridges, and a desolate coastline. As one of the least visited areas in Namibia, the Kunene remains an undiscovered gem, for those who come here are met with a diverse range of wonderfully adapted desert wildlife such as the black rhino, elephant, giraffe, springbok, and the Hartmann’s mountain zebra. This seemingly inhospitable land is also home to the Himba, an indigenous people with an estimated population of 50,000.
Located on the northern coast of Namibia and bordering the Atlantic Ocean, the Skeleton Coast has been called everything from ‘The Gates of Hell’ to ‘The Land God Made in Anger’ over the years. The name Skeleton Coast, however, came from the title of a book that chronicled a shipwreck, and it is particularly apt due to the 1,000+ rusted shipwrecks and bleached whalebones that are scattered along the coast.
With its sandy beaches and stark shoreline, barren desert plains, unique wildlife and landscape – plus vast rolling sand dunes that you can toboggan down – the Skeleton Coast is a mesmerizing, must-see destination.
This exploration takes you through some of the most remote areas of this fascinating land; areas which have been rarely explored by others, making this a journey of discovery.
Damaraland | Skeleton Coast | Kunene
Day 1: Bush flight to safari camp in Damaraland; afternoon safari activityDays 2-3: Game drives and guided bush walks in private areasDay 4: Bush flight to private concession bordering Skeleton Coast National Park; afternoon safari activityDays 5-6: Game drives, coastal excursion and guided bush walks in private park areasDay 7: Bush flight to Kunene region in far northern Namibia; afternoon safari activityDays 8-9: Cultural encounters with nomadic Himba people; drives and walks through dramatic desert sceneryDay 10: Bush flight to Windhoek for departure; or, optionally, extend your trip to Etosha National Park (3 nights recommended)
The Manor at Ngorongoro combines a dash of opulence with easy access to the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. Set amid glorious gardens and lush coffee fields in the Tanzanian highlands, it oozes Old World glamour: think polished-wood floors and antique furnishings, fine dining, billiards and cigars. Each of its elegant Cape Dutch-styled cottages has a private deck, sitting room, open fire and enormous Victorian bath, which will be ready-filled with bubbles, awaiting your return from the day’s adventure.
Considered on of the most scenic areas in Namibia, Damaraland is also one of the most accessible wildlife destinations in Africa, where the animals roam free. It's common to see desert-adapted elephants, lions, zebra, and giraffe and gemsbok, as well as black rhino, especially since its population is one of the fastest growing on the continent.
Damaraland, Namibia
This camp is located in heart of the rocky desert of Damaraland, an ancient, starkly beautiful landscape. It comprises of 5 semi-permanent dome tents on wooded platforms, each with a small viewing deck. Inside, guests find comfortable mattresses, plush bedding, and an open-air, ensuite bathroom complete with flush toilet and hot and cold running water. Tucked away amongst the sandstone hills, Damaraland offers endless vistas and one of the best wilderness areas in Namibia.
Each of the ten spacious en-suite, adobe-style thatched accommodations has a large private viewing deck. New technology and ancient knowledge makes for an ultra-light footprint; nature drives and guided walks offer sights of desert-adapted wildlife, ancient rock-art and striking geological formations. Astonishing night skies round out each day’s experiences.
Southern Palmwag Concession, Namibia
With eight ensuite tents elevated off the ground, Desert Rhino Camp offers panoramic views over rolling, rocky hills from the privacy of your veranda. Evening meals are generally taken al fresco near a crackling campfire. Amid a wonderland of unusual plant life, fascinating wildlife and sparse wilderness, Desert Rhino Camp allows guests to take part in a thrilling conservation success story: tracking Africa’s unique and endangered desert-adapted black rhino with the researchers of the ‘Save the Rhino Trust.’
Surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Damaraland, Doro Nawas Camp commands spectacular views of the Etendeka Mountains and the cliffs of Twyfelfontein. 16 ensuite cottages blend into the hillside with stone and canvas walls, featuring indoor and outdoor showers, and a private veranda for optional sleep outs under the starry skies. A rocky knoll offering panoramic views offers indoor and outdoor dining areas, a pool, bar, and a rooftop deck perfect for sundowners and stargazing.
Northern Palmwag Concession, Namibia
The starkly beautiful Palmwag Concession forms the inland border of Skeleton Coast National Park. Here Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp offers a visit to one of the most remote places on Earth. Eight stylish ensuite tents with private outdoor lounges are set against a rugged backdrop of hills at the confluence of two tributaries, providing breathtaking vistas. A small plunge pool and a cozy lounge provide comfort during the heat of the day or when the Atlantic fog moves over the plain.
Etosha & Ongava Game Reserve, Namibia
A former farm, Andersson’s Camp is a family-friendly camp set in the private Ongava Game Reserve against the backdrop of low mountains that enjoys close proximity to the world-renowned Etosha Pan and the Etosha National Park. Tastefully renovated, Andersson’s Camp’s 20 elevated cottages (including two family suites) combine comfort with eco-friendly living. Andersson’s Camp looks over a large waterhole with a sunken hide, which attracts thirsty wildlife, and offers game drives into Etosha National Park.
Set in the private 66,000 acre Ongava Game Reserve on the boundary with Etosha National Park, Little Ongava offers three luxurious thatched suites, providing the ultimate in exclusivity. Each unit offers a private plunge pool, sala, and an ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers and a bath with magnificent views. A gathering area lends itself to relaxed, stylish dining with wonderful views over the waterhole below. No more than 6 guests share a dedicated guide for game drives, hides and walks, and rhino tracking.
Ongava Lodge is situated along the southern boundary of Etosha National Park in the stunning landscape of Ongava Game Reserve. Small and personal, Ongava overlooks a natural waterhole frequented by an amazing array of wildlife. The lodge offers 13 beautifully appointed chalets and one family room, made of brick, stone, and thatch. Each air-conditioned, ensuite room has glass doors and a private veranda overlooking the plains. Activities include game drives, hide visits, and walks with armed guides.
Ongava Tented Camp is situated along the southern boundary of Etosha National Park in a secluded area within the stunning landscape of private Ongava Game Reserve, and accommodates just 16 guests in eight spacious tents constructed from local stone, canvas and thatch, each featuring ensuite facilities and private verandas. The main area features a relaxing bar and swimming pool, all overlooking the active waterhole. Activities include game drives, hide visits, nature walks, and rhino tracking.
Formerly know as the Kaokoveld, the Kunene Region in northwest Namibia is one of the harshest environments on Earth, with ancient valleys, endless vistas across stark plains, craggy ridges, and a desolate coastline. As one of the least visited areas in Namibia, the Kunene remains an undiscovered gem, for those who come here are met with a diverse range of wonderfully adapted desert wildlife such as the black rhino, elephant, giraffe, springbok, and the Hartmann's mountain zebra. This seemingly inhospitable land is also home to the Himba, an indigenous people with an estimated population of 50,000.
Kunene, Namibia
Serra Cafema is located in remote northwest Namibia on the banks of the Kunene River; an intimate, peaceful camp inspired by the area’s Himba people. Eight canvas and thatched villas on spacious decks blend into the surroundings. Each tent has an ensuite bathroom, ceiling fan and mosquito nets. The main area offers indoor and outdoor dining, a lounge, library, curio shop, and swimming pool, all with views of the river. Activities include guided walks, exploring on eco-sensitive quad bikes and experiencing traditional Himba culture.
Located on the northern coast of Namibia and bordering the Atlantic Ocean, the Skeleton Coast has been called everything from 'The Gates of Hell' to 'The Land God Made in Anger' over the years. The name Skeleton Coast, however, came from the title of a book that chronicled a shipwreck, and it is particularly apt due to the 1,000+ rusted shipwrecks and bleached whalebones that are scattered along the coast.
With its sandy beaches and stark shoreline, barren desert plains, unique wildlife and landscape - plus vast rolling sand dunes that you can toboggan down - the Skeleton Coast is a mesmerizing, must-see destination.
Swakopmund, Namibia
Century-old colonial charm permeates the landmark Hansa Hotel, centrally located in the seaside outpost of Swakopmund. Providing up-to-date service and comfort, bedrooms are spacious and tastefully appointed, with a blend of modern luxury and antique décor, and the sites of Swakopmund only steps away.
Skeleton Coast National Park, Namibia
As the only accommodation within Skeleton Coast National Park, Terrace Bay Resort is in a truly remote location. This rustic rest-camp style lodge has 20 ensuite rooms and a family chalet, and the bar and restaurant offer convivial areas in which to gather. Please note that while the accommodations are clean, functional, and comfortable, this is a basic lodge that has been chosen for access to this remote location, not for its amenities.
Situated in the southern part the Namib Desert, the Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by a kaleidoscope of sand dunes. These dunes - which vary from vivid pink to vibrant orange to bright red in color - are among the highest in the world. Many of them are above 650 feet, including the one nicknamed "Big Daddy", which stands about 1,250 feet high. Due to its fascinating and surreal landscapes, Sossusvlei is one of the most famous attractions in Namibia and one of the most photographed places in all of Africa.
Namib Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Located near the spectacular sights of Sossusvlei, the camp comprises of 5 semi-permanent dome tents on wooden platforms, each with a mini veranda. Inside, guests find comfortable mattresses, plush bedding, and an open-air, ensuite bathroom complete with flush toilet and hot and cold running water. Enjoy views into the Namib Naukluft National Park, dining under the star-filled Namibian skies, and watching rose-red sunsets. The Sossusvlei dunes are accessed through the camp’s private gate, which is conveniently located right at the entrance to the dune corridor.
Featuring magnificent views of the famous red dunes of Sossusvlei and vast open plains, Kulala Desert Lodge offers 23 ensuite thatch-and-canvas ‘kulalas’ each with a veranda to enjoy the outstanding scenery. By day, a plunge pool provides a cooling sanctuary. On balmy nights, enjoy the option of sleeping under the star-filled skies on your rooftop deck, and awaken to the rising sun.
, Namibia
Set in a 27,000-hectare reserve, with a private gate into the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Little Kulala is a luxurious desert retreat with splendid views of the spectacular red dunes of Sossusvlei. 11 climate-controlled ensuite thatched villas offer private decks (complete with plunge pool), indoor and outdoor showers, serene décor, and a private rooftop ?skybed?, where guests can enjoy stargazing. The main area features an elegant gathering area with library, wine cellar, craft boutique, and lounge.
From providing accommodation options based on your budget, to recommendations on pre- or post-safari travels, assisting you with booking regional air, and meeting you at the airport when you arrive: Boundless Journeys can help you with each step in planning your custom safari. We will seamlessly guide you, so that you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime in Namibia.
As one of the driest deserts in the world, rainfall is negligible, although statistically higher from January to April. April to September is characterized by coastal fog especially in the mornings. Average high temperatures year-round are pleasant, although when the fog burns off, temperatures even on the coast can get into the 90s. Inland, the hottest months are October to February, when you can expect average daytime highs in the 80s.
You may obtain other regional weather information at www.weatherbase.com.
Namibia is a year-round destination with coastal areas offering excellent game-viewing all year. Mainly comprised of the Namib Desert - the oldest desert on the planet and one of the driest on earth - Namibia offers unique desert-adapted wildlife, landscapes of startling beauty, and well-preserved Himba culture.
In terms of wildlife viewing, many agree the following are the best times to go to specific regions:
Etosha National Park and Ongava Game Reserve: April - December; June - October for peak game viewingNamib-Naukluft National Park and Kulala Wilderness Reserve: Year-roundSkeleton Coast National Park, Damaraland, Kunene: Year-round
In the camps, the food is healthy, varied, and delicious, a feat when considering the logistics involved in servicing these remote areas with fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and meats. To accommodate the typical morning and late afternoon activity schedule, several small meals and a few large ones are served daily. The pre-activity early breakfast typically includes porridge, cereals, yogurt, fruit, coffee and tea; brunch includes typical breakfast fare accompanied by more savory items like sausage tarts, spring rolls, light lasagnas, and other eclectic choices; afternoon tea offers cakes, cookies, and savory items; "sundowners" are light appetizers and cocktails often enjoyed at a scenic spot; and finally, dinner, ordered from a menu with two or three daily choices. Beef, pork, and chicken are the basis of mostmain dishes, with occasional opportunities to try indigenous meats like farm-raised springbok. German colonial influence can still be seen in the meals in places like Swakopmund and Windhoek especially.
Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice, though choices tend to be more limited.
With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.
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