Wilderness Safaris Explorations Namibia

Wilderness Safaris Explorations Namibia

BEST OF NAMIBIA WING

A Wings Exploration - 6 nights/7 days
To observe Namibia from the air is an awe-inspiring experience: the vast expanses of moving, rippling sands, the great blue skies and grey of the ocean extending to the horizon. This safari explores
four distinct regions: the sands and red dunes of Sossusvlei; the icy, life-filled coasts at Swakopmund and Walvis Bay; the stark plains of Damaraland, with their desert-adapted elephants; and the amazing wildlife abundance on the Etosha savannah.
FEATURES OF THIS SAFARI
Private charters between camps minimise travel time and provide a bird’s-eye view of the immense landscape. Diverse activities enhance in-depth experience of the landscape, including dolphin cruise,
seafood lunch and quad biking. Seamless experience with one expert pilot-guide leading throughout. Small group size ensures that special interests are satisfied. Enormous concessions and private camps
combine with advantages of nearby National Parks.

Brief Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: Fly to Sossusvlei Wilderness Camp, Namib Desert.
Days 3 & 4: Fly to Walvis Bay for dolphin boat cruise and Swakopmund touring, then on to Damaraland Camp, Damaraland.
Days 5 & 6: Fly to Ongava Game Reserve, and Etosha Region.
Day 7: Transfer back to Windhoek.

Detailed Itinerary
Days 1 and 2 : The Namib Desert - Sossusvlei Wilderness Camp
The safari departs from Eros Airport (Windhoek) by light aircraft for Sossusvlei Wilderness Camp, approximately an hour's flight away. We will be departing in the late morning. Activities are conducted in 4x4 vehicles and include a safari down to the very end of the Tsauchab River and to the heart of Sossusvlei for wonderful dune scenes. Optional early morning ballooning can be arranged at extra cost. (This must be booked in advance). Late afternoons are time to explore the reserve around the camp.
Days 3 and 4 : The Skeleton Coast, Swakopmund and Damaraland - Damaraland Camp
We depart by light aircraft and fly over the dunes of the Namib and Sossusvlei to gain a different perspective of the area from the air. We continue westwards to Meob Bay on the Atlantic Ocean and then fly up the Skeleton Coast.
The flight offers spectacular desert and Skeleton Coast scenery, where the dunes and the desert meet the Atlantic Ocean. Our flight takes us over the site of the Eduard Bolen shipwreck, past Conception Bay and the wreck site of the Shaunee, around Sandwich Harbour and its famous lagoon, the flamingoes at Walvis Bay and on to Swakopmund. Here we are met and transferred to Walvis Bay for a wonderful boat trip out to sea where there are frequently good sightlings of dolphins, seals and sometimes even penguins and whales.
In the afternoon we depart from Swakopmund, for a scenic flight further up the Skeleton Coast, and past the Cape Cross Seal Colony before we turn east and fly up the Huab River to Damaraland Camp for two nights. Highlights of the stay of Damaraland Camp are nature excursions into the rocky desert in search of the rare and endangered desert Elephant and Rhino.
We are in an area where the chances of encountering the desert Elephants are high
Day 5 and 6 : Etosha and Ongava - Ongava Lodge or Ongava Tented Camp
Fly by light aircraft from Damaraland to Ongava Lodge or Ongava Tented Camp for two nights. Etosha, covering an area of 22,000 square kilometres, offers excellent game viewing opportunities. Our game drive activities will focus mainly within Etosha in the mornings. In the afternoon and evening we have the opportunity to enjoy walks, hides and night drives within the private Ongava Reserve, activities not possible within Etosha. Lion, Leopard, Elephant White Rhino and Black Rhino as well as all the plains game can be seen here. Tracking Rhino on foot is one of Ongava's highlights.
Day 7 : Back to Windhoek
Depart Ongava Lodge for flight back to Windhoek.
Some itineraries may run in reverse

DESERT RHINO & ELEPHANT EXPEDITION

An Adventurer Exploration - 7 night / 8 day
Combination Discoverer Camp, lodge and serviced dome tent Adventurer camping in the Palmwag Concession.
For more than 20 years, the Save the Rhino Trust (SRT) has worked ceaselessly to protect the last free-ranging rhino population on Earth: the rare desert-adapted black rhino. In the remote, rugged Palmwag Concession, teams of local trackers use camel trains to help with the research and monitoring of this animal.
On this original and exciting Exploration, guests join the "ships of the desert" on a great adventure: an eight-day walk (little time is spent actually on the camels) across the oldest desert in the world, where a camel train and a team of Save the Rhino trackers take us deep into the heart of the Namib Desert in search of this rare and endangered species. Guests thus gain access to some of the most remote and almost inaccessible regions of the Concession.
The revenues generated by this venture are directly channelled into the critically important conservation of the rhino population of the area.
This serviced camping safari offers a unique adventure for the traveller seeking an authentic African experience and a means to join skilled rhino trackers in their conservation, research and custodian work.
Adventurer Explorations camps provide 2.4 x 2.4m dome tents, designed for comfort in remote wilderness areas. Cotton linen and bedrolls (with duvets) with a lantern complement the atmosphere in this pristine and wild areas. Separate long drop toilet and shower 'bathrooms' with old-style bucket showers create simple serviced comfort.
By means of lively camp fires, hurricane lanterns and a warm atmosphere permeating the camp (and its simple comforts), Adventurer camping brings the guest closer to nature. Such camps are specifically outfitted to create that sense of wilderness with a clear emphasis on essential camp comforts and maximum wilderness experience.
Guide: The entire safari is guided and hosted by a professional and passionate guide, Gary Booth who shares in-depth knowledge with the guests, to present a seamless, well-rounded experience. In addition, a team of experienced Save the Rhino Trust trackers accompany the trip, providing comprehensive interaction and valuable experience of the positions they hold as caretakers of these magnificent animals.
Exclusive experience: As the 450 000-hectare Palmwag Concession in north-west Namibia is a private reserve, exclusivity in this pristine and unspoiled is unrivalled. All campsite allocations are for the use of Wilderness Safaris guests only, while at Palmwag Lodge we meet other independent guests.

Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Palmwag Lodge, Palmwag Concession
Day 2: Aub River, Palmwag Concession
Day 3: Barab River, Palmwag Concession
Day 4: Kudu Springs, Palmwag Concession
Day 5: Hunkab Spring, Palmwag Concession
Days 6 & 7: Hoanib Camp, Kaokoland
Day 8: Air charter to Palmwag Lodge

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Palmwag Lodge, Palmwag Concession
Palms whispering in the wind and spectacular surroundings (with awe-inspiring sunsets), the home of the famous desert-adapted elephant and the rare black rhino - this is Palmwag Lodge, one of Namibia's oldest and most popular tourist locations.
The lodge offers 24 beds in 2- or 3-bed thatched bungalows, a fully licensed restaurant, swimming pool under shady palms and a small "Pool Bar".
On our arrival at Palmwag Lodge, we are welcomed by the guide to the area and receive a full briefing on the tour ahead.
Day 2: Aub River, Palmwag Concession After an early breakfast, we depart northwards by game drive to Mbakondja Camel Camp to meet the Save the Rhino Camel team.
Then we ride/ walk south to the Aub River, where our Adventurer camp has been erected prior to our arrival.
In addition to the tracking and hopefully viewing of desert-adapted elephant and black rhino (the latter a rare subspecies of rhino), our guides reveal the sheer magnificence of nature's survival strategies in this arid environment, concentrating on a variety of topics from birds, insects, medicinal uses of plants and viewing general wildlife.
Day 3: Barab River, Palmwag Concession Our journey continues today with a walk to the Barab River, concentrating on the tracking of the elusive desert giants through a series of hills, rocky landscapes and diverse geology. After even a little rain, the gravel plains are covered in long golden grasses that ripple in the wind.
Day 4: Kudu Springs, Palmwag Concession After an early breakfast, we ride out further west through the Okomutati Springs to Kudu Springs. This area is almost inaccessible to vehicles, an area of pristine wilderness where the sense of remoteness is complete. En route we also have the opportunity to see extraordinary plant life including the ancient Welwitschia plants and numerous lichens.
Day 5: Hunkab Spring, Palmwag Concession Heading northwards, we move to the next popular drinking point for the Kaokoland's diverse animal life, the Hunkab Spring. Fresh drinking water in the desert forms the basis for seasonal animal movements and a surprisingly diverse range of animal life can be seen here. Animals from Hartmann?s zebra to elephant, bustards to ?? come to slake their thirst.
Day 6 & 7: Hoanib Camp, Kaokoland We bid farewell to the Save the Rhino Trust trackers and depart on game drive from Hunkab, travelling through the concession to the ephemeral river of the Hoanib Valley. Here, in an area seemingly parched and desolate, we enter one of Namibia?s richest desert wildlife areas.
We stay at Hoanib Camp, and enjoy game walks, rhino tracking, game drives and night drives into the Hoanib River valley.
Our Discoverer-styled tented Hoanib Camp close to the Hoanib River is a relaxed haven from which we explore this wild land on foot, or from the comfort of one of our safari vehicles. The camp is powered by solar-powered inverter systems and there are no generators or pumps running whilst guests are in camp. There are 5 guest walk-in hexagonal meru-style tents with en suite and flush toilet and bucket shower bathrooms in a separate portion of the tent. Each tent is furnished with necessary comforts and styled with burnt orange interiors, wood and brass, effectively recreating a sense of the early explorers.
Day 8: Air charter to Palmwag Lodge After an early breakfast and game drive, we fly back to Palmwag Lodge, in time for a lunch and final farewell to the adventure.
THIS ITINERARY IS AVAILABLE ON FLEXIBLE DATES AND ITINERARIES, FOR TAILOR-MADE SAFARIS FOR SMALL GROUPS UP TO EIGHT GUESTS, MINIMUM 4 GUESTS.

ELUSIVE DESERT WILDLIFE

An Adventurer Exploration - 8 night / 9 day
Combination Wilderness Safaris Vintage camp, Discoverer Camp, lodge overnight and serviced dome tent Adventurer camping in private concession areas and campsites.
This old-style serviced camping safari recreates a sense of adventure for the traveller seeking an authentic African experience.
Adventurer Explorations camps provide spacious dome tents, designed for comfort in remote wilderness areas.
The style of accommodation takes you back to the great days of African exploration. Pure cotton linen bedrolls (with duvets) on GI stretchers, bedside table with lantern and mini luggage benches complement the atmosphere in pristine, wild camping areas. Separate toilet and shower 'bathrooms' with old-style tin bucket showers and basins and amenities create simple serviced comfort. Adventurer camping brings the guest closer to nature, by means of lively camp fires, hurricane lanterns, diverse activities and a warm atmosphere permeating the camp (and its simple comforts). Adventurer camps are specifically outfitted to create that wilderness camping feel with a clear emphasis on essential camp comforts and maximum wilderness experience.
Guides: The entire safari is guided and hosted by a professional and passionate trained guide who shares in-depth knowledge to present a seamless, well-rounded experience.
Exclusive experience: To ensure privacy and exclusivity, most areas in which we travel are private concessions in unspoiled and scenic prime locations. All campsites are for the use of Wilderness Safaris guests only, while at hotels and lodges we meet other guests.
Routes: The route followed on this Exploration aims to track and reveal the elusive wildlife of the desert and the life-rich and rugged Atlantic Coast. Surprisingly, the seemingly barren desert comes to life with an amazing plethora of plants and animals that have ingeniously adapted to their harsh surroundings - and in fact thrive. On this journey there is an excellent opportunity to find even the largest of mammals surviving here - the desert-adapted black rhino and elephant.
Transfers: To maximise guests' travel time, a variety of transport modes that bring out the best of each area is used: flying in private charters (when the travelling experience is not enhanced by road) and cross-country transfers provide both a bird's-eye view and an in-depth experience of the contrasting landscapes of Namibia

Brief Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: From Windhoek, fly to Ongava Homestead, Etosha Region.
Days 3 & 4: Drive to Palmwag Adventurer Camp, Damaraland.
Day 5 & 6: Drive westwards to Hoanib Camp, Kaokoland.
Day 7: Drive via Twyfelfontein to Damaraland Camp, Damaraland.
Day 8: Drive via Cape Cross Seal Colony to The Stiltz Lodge, Swakopmund.
Day 9: Transfer by road to Windhoek.

Detailed Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: Ongava Homestead, Etosha Region Transfer by comfortable charter flight to Namibia's big game country: Etosha and its environs. Here, the diverse flora and fauna is experienced in a variety of activities, from game walks to game drives and visits to hides both on the property and in the famous Etosha National Park.
The 66 000-acre Ongava Game Reserve is recognised as the nation's premier big game private game reserve. Combined with easy access to the extraordinary Etosha Park, Ongava Homestead provides the quintessential Namibian farmhouse experience.
Ongava Homestead, situated in the private Ongava Game Reserve, is a renovated old farmhouse, with en-suite bathrooms and a farm kitchen overlooking a busy waterhole. Sleeping eight guests, complete with domestic facilities, outdoor barbecue, bar, common dining, kitchen and bathroom facilities present a clean and comfortable base to experience and explore the fascinating countryside. Simple safari furnishings create a wonderful atmosphere in which to make friends and enjoy good company.
The waterhole is floodlit at night to catch sight of nocturnal visitors, from the timid genet to big game such as lion, leopard and a host of antelope. Within Etosha we?ll also visit numerous perennial springs and pans, encountering lion, leopard, elephant and black rhino, as well as plains game.
Days 3 & 4: Palmwag Adventurer Camp, Damaraland After an early breakfast, we depart westwards by road in the direction of Palmwag concession. Here, on the concession and in the surrounding areas the desert-adapted elephant and black rhino can be found. Special activities include tracking and searching for these wonderful mammals on foot and by vehicle.
In addition, our guides expose the sheer magnificence of nature's survival strategies in this arid environment, through walks and game drives concentrating on a variety of topics from birds to insects, medicinal uses of plants and viewing wildlife. Our Adventurer campsite lies in a private setting with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and vast, wide-open landscape.
Days 5 & 6: Hoanib Camp, Kaokoland With an early start, our journey continues by road towards the ephemeral river of the Hoanib Valley. Here, in an area seemingly parched and desolate, we enter one of Namibia's richest desert wildlife areas.
The rugged mountains and canyons of the Hoanib River provide a last refuge for some of the continent's most unique wildlife; this is the home of the legendary desert elephant and the last free-roaming black rhino population on Earth. In fact seventy-five per cent of Namibia's endemic species inhabit this last bastion of the wilderness.
Experience the wilder side of Africa where only the sporadic roar of lion or cackle of hyaena punctuates the silence of the night. The Save the Rhino Trust has been involved with rhino conservation in this area since the early 1980s, with funding from and in partnership with Wilderness Safaris. The Trust is thus able to continue the conservation of this remarkable animal.
Our Discoverer-styled tented camp close to the Hoanib River is a relaxed haven from which we explore this wild land on foot, or from the comfort of one of our safari vehicles. The camp is powered by solar-powered inverter systems and there are no generators or pumps running whilst guests are in camp. There are 5 guest walk-in hexagonal meru-style tents with en suite and flush toilet and bucket shower bathrooms in a separate portion of the tent. Each tent is furnished with necessary comforts and styled with burnt orange interiors, wood and brass, effectively recreating a sense of the early explorers.
Day 7: Damaraland Camp, Damaraland Departing early, we travel to Twyfelfontein where we take a guided walk via a number of routes, with local Damara guides to view the San (Bushman) petroglyphs - prehistoric rock etchings strewn over the rock face. We end the journey at Damaraland Camp, which has won awards for its innovative contribution to community and conservation.
Damaraland Camp accommodates guests in 10 comfortable tented rooms, with en-suite facilities including flush toilets and showers with hot and cold running water. The dining room and pub are combined under canvas, and an open fire is enjoyed on calm evenings. A feature of the camp is its unique natural rock pool. In the late afternoon, we search on foot or on a game drive for the black rhino, hoping to have a glimpse of this prehistoric-looking animal that survives today in these desolately beautiful areas.
Day 8: The Stiltz Lodge, Swakopmund We leave Damaraland Camp and cross over the Huab riverbed. Traveling south we start finding some Welwitschia plants, we also come across some petrified wood and pass the Gai As spring where we find numerous stone circles made by people who lived here from about 500 years ago. Continuing south we cross over the Ugab River and then start heading westwards towards the coast. As we get closer to the coast there are lichen fields strewn over the gravel plains, one of the most fragile ecosystems on Earth.
After relaxing over our packed lunch en route, we make for The Stiltz Lodge in the quaint and charming town of Swakopmund, arriving in the late afternoon. Swakopmund is a wonderful town in which to end a safari after the experiences of the northern Namibian bush, with its unique urban atmosphere that is a vibrant combination of Africa and Europe. The Stiltz is built on stilts thus providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the red iron rich beach dunes and also the Swakopmund River Mouth. Each of the 8 minimalist yet elegantly furnished thatched bungalows is linked by wooden walkways to the main restaurant. As the lodge is situated close to the central part of town, this allows for easy access to enjoy the special hospitality, history and cuisine.
Day 9: Transfer to Windhoek After an early breakfast, we drive southwards to Walvis Bay Lagoon. Here in a protected bay, hundreds of flamingos, pelicans and other waterfowl amass. On the calm waters of the bay, we experience a sea kayak trip, a spectacular activity that allows us to approach the waterbirds in their habitat at a respectable distance and often allows for some unique photographic opportunities of birds flying low over the bay.
We bid farewell to the adventure and the journey ends with a transfer by road to Windhoek.
THIS ITINERARY IS AVAILABLE ON FLEXIBLE DATES AND ITINERARIES, FOR TAILOR-MADE SAFARIS FOR SMALL GROUPS UP TO EIGHT GUESTS.

NAMIBIAN MOUNTAIN BIKE SAFARI

An Adventurer Exploration - 5 night / 6 day
Combination Wilderness Safaris Vintage camps and serviced dome tent camping in remote private concession areas and campsites. Wilderness' Adventurer Explorations provide serviced spacious tents, designed to provide comfort in remote wilderness areas. Adventurer camping brings the guest closer to nature, by means of lively camp fires, hurricane lanterns, diverse activities and a warm atmosphere permeating the camp (and its simple comforts). Adventurer camps are specifically outfitted to create that wilderness camping feel with a clear emphasis on essential camp comforts and maximum wilderness experience.
Guides: The entire safari is guided and hosted by professional and passionate trained guides who share their in-depth knowledge to present a seamless, well-rounded experience.
Exclusive experience: This specialised safari has been tailor-made to introduce the reasonably fit guest to some of the most spectacular areas in Namibia viewed from a mountain bike. Off the main tourist routes, the journey highlights spectacular geology, desert game and scenery in the open air. Relish that sense of achievement that is a part of pedalling one?s way through the vast, changing landscapes and relax at the day?s end with evening drinks under a multitude of stars. All campsites are private and for the use of Adventurer Exploration guests only.
Routes: A unique way for reasonably fit guests to experience the wilds of Namibia: a combination mountain bike and vehicle safari. A support vehicle is in accompaniment in case cycling becomes too strenuous for some.
Transfers: Innovative combination of cross-country drives and cycling, providing the opportunity to view the changing scenery and landscapes of the region.

Brief Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: Drive to Save the Rhino Camp, Ugab.
Day 3: Cycle to Damaraland Camp, Damaraland.
Day 4: Cycle to Palmwag Campsite, Damaraland.
Day 5: Cycle to Desert Rhino Camp, Damaraland.
Day 6: Transfer by road back to Windhoek.

detailed Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: Save the Rhino Camp, Ugab After arrival in Windhoek, we are met by our guides and drive to the stunning monolith of Brandberg, on the banks of the Ugab River. We enjoy a warm-up ride of 40 kilometres to the Save the Rhino campsite, our Adventurer campsite that is pre-erected under the shade of immense Acacia trees.
On Day 2 we cycle to the old zinc mine, enjoying steep climbs, thrilling downhills and exhilarating challenges the route presents. Our afternoon is spent relaxing at the camp and exploring the Ugab riverbed.
Day 3: Damaraland Camp, Damaraland Today we embark on the longest stage - a route of 90km through changing habitats to Damaraland Camp. This also creates a wonderful opportunity to find elephant and rhino en route, as well as view gemsbok, springbok and giraffe.
Day 4: Palmwag Campsite, Damaraland Damaraland has a desolate, volcanic landscape with small rock-strewn plains where long-ago glaciers once moved. Our 80km ride traverses this incredible panorama and is the heart of black rhino country, creating a challenging but highly rewarding ride.
Day 5: Desert Rhino Camp, Damaraland After a short exciting ride of 40 kilometres through black rhino country, we then enjoy an afternoon tracking rhino on foot with the specialist Save the Rhino trackers. We end with sunset drinks, taking in the isolated beauty of Damaraland.
Desert Rhino Camp is situated in the 1-million-acre private Palmwag Reserve in north-west Namibia, between Etosha and the Skeleton Coast - few places on the planet can offer this level of privacy and wilderness experience. This desert reserve has a number of freshwater springs that support healthy populations of animals including desert-adapted black rhino and elephant as well as large populations of the rare Hartmann's mountain zebra, giraffe, gemsbok, springbok and kudu. The predator population is the largest outside the Etosha National Park with lion, cheetah, leopard, and brown and spotted hyaena. Bird life is prolific and diverse with most of Namibia's endemics present. Ancient and strange desert-adapted Welwitschia plants dot the plain in front of the camp.
Desert Rhino Camp accommodates guests in 7 large East African-styled "Meru" tents, each with an en-suite bathroom and a classic bucket shower that is filled with hot water whenever needed. Lights are powered by solar panels and the tented dining room offers uninterrupted views of the desert and mountains. Activities include rhino tracking on foot or by vehicle as well as day and night nature drives. This free-roaming population of black rhino is growing in numbers and the area boasts the largest concentration of rhino outside of a national park. Community game scouts who were employed by the Trust to help with the patrolling and monitoring all these years are now seconded to the camp and are the trackers and guides.
Day 6: Transfer to Windhoek After breakfast we transfer by road to Windhoek and bid farewell to the adventure.

ROARING DUNES AND OCEANS

An Adventurer Exploration - 3 night / 4 day
Combination Wilderness Safaris Adventurer camping in private concession areas and campsites and a lodge overnight.
This old-style serviced camping safari recreates a sense of adventure for the traveller seeking an authentic African experience.
Adventurer Explorations camps provide serviced spacious dome tents, designed for comfort in remote wilderness areas.
The style of accommodation takes you back to the great days of African exploration. Pure cotton linen bedrolls (with duvets) on GI stretchers, bedside table with lantern and mini luggage benches complement the atmosphere in pristine, wild camping areas. Separate toilet and shower 'bathrooms' with old-style tin bucket showers and basins and amenities create simple serviced comfort.
Adventurer camping brings the guest closer to nature, by means of lively camp fires, hurricane lanterns, diverse activities and a warm atmosphere permeating the camp (and its simple comforts). Adventurer camps are specifically outfitted to create that wilderness camping feel with a clear emphasis on essential camp comforts and maximum wilderness experience.
Guides: The entire safari is guided and hosted by a professional and passionate trained guide who offers in-depth knowledge to present a seamless, well-rounded experience.
Exclusive experience: To ensure privacy and exclusivity, most areas in which we travel are private concessions in unspoiled and scenic prime locations. All campsites are for the use of Wilderness Safaris guests only, while at hotels and lodges we meet other guests.
Routes: The route followed on this Exploration aims to reveal the evocative scenery of the desert and the life-rich, rugged Atlantic Coast and the moving dune fields of the Namib Desert around Sossusvlei. Surprisingly, the seemingly barren desert comes to life with an amazing plethora of plants and animals that have ingeniously adapted to their harsh surroundings - and in fact thrive. On this journey there are excellent opportunities to view enormous dunes, seals up close from a kayak trip, pelicans and flamingos, to name but a few.

Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Drive to The Stiltz Lodge, Swakopmund.
Days 2 & 3: Drive to Walvis Bay for sea kayaking and then to Kulala Adventurer Camp, Sossusvlei.
Day 4: Transfer by road back to Windhoek

Detail Itinerary
Day 1: The Stiltz Lodge, Swakopmund After arrival in Windhoek, where we are met by a representative of Wilderness Safaris, we transfer by road to the The Stiltz Lodge in Swakopmund on the Atlantic. The journey takes us through some fascinating landscapes, gravel plains and stark mountains before arriving in the late afternoon.
Swakopmund is a wonderful town, situated between the startling and extensive dune fields of the south and the northern Namibian bush, with a unique urban atmosphere that is a vibrant combination of Africa and Europe.
The Stiltz is a unique lodge, built on stilts thus providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the red iron rich beach dunes and also the Swakopmund River mouth. Each of the 8 minimalist yet elegantly furnished thatched bungalows is linked by wooden walkways to the main restaurant. As the lodge is sited close to the central part of town, this allows for easy access to enjoy the special hospitality, history and cuisine unique to Swakopmund.
Days 2 & 3: Kulala Adventurer Camp, Sossusvlei After an early breakfast, we drive southwards to Walvis Bay Lagoon. Here in a protected bay, hundreds of flamingos, pelicans and other waterfowl amass. On the calm waters of the bay, we experience a sea kayak trip, a spectacular activity that allows us to approach the waterbirds in their habitat at a respectable distance, often allowing for some unique photographic opportunities of birds flying low over the bay. We enjoy a seafood lunch served on the beach and afterwards drive inland to the Kulala Adventurer Camp in our private Sossusvlei concession, arriving in the late afternoon.
Here we enjoy access to the Sossusvlei dunes, walks in the immense moving sands of the Namib, game drives and stargazing. Photography in the early morning of the dunes is particularly stunning with rich reds and dark shadows completing the dazzling reality that is the enormity of the Namib Desert.
Day 4: Transfer to Windhoek After breakfast we transfer by road, including lunch overlooking the view of the plains nearby, to Windhoek and bid farewell to the adventure.
THIS ITINERARY IS AVAILABLE ON FLEXIBLE DATES AND ITINERARIES, FOR TAILOR-MADE SAFARIS FOR SMALL GROUPS UP TO EIGHT GUESTS.

SPIRIT OF THE NAMIB

An Adventurer Exploration - 10 night / 11 day
Combination Wilderness Safaris Vintage camp, Discoverer Camp, lodge overnight and serviced dome tent camping in private concession areas and campsites. This old-style serviced camping safari recreates a sense of adventure for the traveller seeking an authentic African experience.
Adventurer Explorations camps consist of serviced spacious dome tents, designed to provide comfort in remote wilderness areas. The style of accommodation takes you back to the great days of African exploration. Pure cotton linen bedrolls (with duvets) on GI stretchers, bedside table with lantern and mini luggage benches complement the atmosphere in pristine, wild camping areas. Separate toilet and shower 'bathrooms' with old-style tin bucket showers and basins and amenities create simple serviced comfort.
Adventurer camping brings the guest closer to nature, by means of lively camp fires, hurricane lanterns, diverse activities and a warm atmosphere permeating the camp (and its simple comforts). Adventurer camps are specifically outfitted to create that wilderness camping feel with a clear emphasis on essential camp comforts and maximum wilderness experience.
Guides: The entire safari is guided and hosted by a professional and passionate trained guide who shares in-depth knowledge to present a seamless, well-rounded experience.
Exclusive experience: To ensure privacy and exclusivity, most areas in which we travel are private concessions in unspoiled and scenic prime locations. All campsites are for the use of Wilderness Safaris guests only, while at hotels and lodges we meet other guests.
Routes: The route followed on this Exploration aims to track and reveal the elusive wildlife of the desert and the life-rich, the rugged Atlantic Coast and the immense moving dune fields of the Namib Desert. Surprisingly, the seemingly barren desert comes to life with an amazing plethora of plants and animals that have ingeniously adapted to their harsh surroundings - and in fact thrive. On this journey there is also an excellent opportunity to find even the largest of mammals surviving here - the desert-adapted black rhino and elephant.
Transfers: To maximise guests' travel time, a variety of transport modes that bring out the best of each area is used: flying in private charters (when the travelling experience is not enhanced by road) and cross-country transfers provide both a bird's-eye view and an in-depth experience of the contrasting landscapes of Namibia.

Brief Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: From Windhoek, fly to Ongava Homestead, Etosha Region.
Days 3 & 4: Drive to Palmwag Adventurer Camp, Damaraland.
Days 5 & 6: Drive to Hoanib Camp, Kaokoland.
Day 7: Drive to Damaraland Camp, Damaraland.
Day 8: Drive across the Ugab river to The Stiltz Lodge, Swakopmund.
Days 9 & 10: Drive via Kuiseb River to Kulala Adventurer Camp.
Day 11: Drive to Windhoek.

Detailed Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: Ongava Homestead, Etosha Region Transfer by comfortable charter flight to Namibia's big game country: Etosha and its environs. Here, the diverse flora and fauna is experienced in a variety of activities, from game walks to game drives and visits to hides both on the property and in the famous Etosha National Park.
The 66 000-acre Ongava Game Reserve is recognised as the nation's premier big game private game reserve. Combined with easy access to the extraordinary Etosha Park, Ongava Homestead provides the quintessential Namibian farmhouse experience.
Ongava Homestead, situated in the private Ongava Game Reserve, is a renovated old farmhouse, with en-suite bathrooms and a farm kitchen overlooking a busy waterhole. Sleeping eight guests, complete with domestic facilities, outdoor barbecue, bar, common dining, kitchen and bathroom facilities present a clean and comfortable base to experience and explore the fascinating countryside. Simple safari furnishings create a wonderful atmosphere in which to make friends and enjoy good company.
The waterhole is floodlit at night to catch sight of nocturnal visitors, from the timid genet to big game such as lion, leopard and a host of antelope. Within Etosha we?ll also visit numerous perennial springs and pans, encountering lion, leopard, elephant and black rhino, as well as plains game.
Days 3 & 4: Palmwag Adventurer Camp, Damaraland After an early breakfast, we depart westwards by road in the direction of Palmwag concession. Here, on the concession and in the surrounding areas the desert-adapted elephant and black rhino can be found. Special activities include tracking and searching for these wonderful mammals on foot and by vehicle.
In addition, our guides expose the sheer magnificence of nature's survival strategies in this arid environment, through walks and game drives concentrating on a variety of topics from birds to insects, medicinal uses of plants and viewing wildlife. Our Adventurer campsite lies in a private setting with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and vast, wide-open landscape.
Days 5 & 6: Hoanib Camp, Kaokoland With an early start, our journey continues by road towards the ephemeral river of the Hoanib Valley. Here, in an area seemingly parched and desolate, we enter one of Namibia's richest desert wildlife areas.
The rugged mountains and canyons of the Hoanib River provide a last refuge for some of the continent's most unique wildlife; this is the home of the legendary desert elephant and the last free-roaming black rhino population on Earth. In fact seventy-five per cent of Namibia's endemic species inhabit this last bastion of the wilderness. Experience the wilder side of Africa where only the sporadic roar of lion or cackle of hyaena punctuates the silence of the night. The Save the Rhino Trust has been involved with rhino conservation in this area since the early 1980s, with funding from and in partnership with Wilderness Safaris. The Trust is thus able to continue the conservation of this remarkable animal.
Our Discoverer-styled tented camp close to the Hoanib River is a relaxed haven from which we explore this wild land on foot, or from the comfort of one of our safari vehicles. The camp is powered by solar-powered inverter systems and there are no generators or pumps running whilst guests are in camp. There are 5 guest walk-in hexagonal meru-style tents with en suite and flush toilet and bucket shower bathrooms in a separate portion of the tent. Each tent is furnished with necessary comforts and styled with burnt orange interiors, wood and brass, effectively recreating a sense of the early explorers.
Day 7: Damaraland Camp, Damaraland Departing early, we travel to Twyfelfontein where we take a guided walk via a number of routes with local Damara guides to view the San (Bushman) petroglyphs - prehistoric rock etchings strewn over the rock face. We end the journey at the award-winning Damaraland Camp.
Damaraland Camp accommodates guests in 10 comfortable tented rooms, with en-suite facilities including flush toilets and showers with hot and cold running water. The dining room and pub are combined under canvas, and an open fire is enjoyed on calm evenings. A feature of the camp is its unique natural rock pool. In the late afternoon, we search on foot or vehicle for the black rhino, hoping to have a glimpse of this prehistoric-looking animal that survives today in these desolately beautiful areas.
Day 8: The Stiltz Lodge, Swakopmund We leave Damaraland Camp and cross over the Huab riverbed. Traveling south we begin finding some Welwitschia plants, we also come across some petrified wood and pass the Gai As spring where we find numerous stone circles made by people who lived here about 500 years ago. Continuing south we cross over the Ugab River and then start heading westwards towards the coast. As we get closer to the coast there are lichen fields strewn over the gravel plains, one of the most fragile ecosystems on Earth.
After relaxing over our packed lunch en route, we make for The Stiltz Lodge in the quaint and charming town of Swakopmund, arriving in the late afternoon. Swakopmund is a wonderful town in which to end a safari after the experiences of the northern Namibian bush, with its unique urban atmosphere that is a vibrant combination of Africa and Europe.
The Stiltz, as its name implies is built on stilts, providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the red iron-rich beach dunes and also the Swakopmund River mouth. Each of the 8 minimalist yet elegantly furnished thatched bungalows is linked by wooden walkways to the main restaurant. As the lodge is sited close to the central part of town, this allows for easy access to enjoy the special hospitality, history and cuisine.
Days 9 & 10: Kulala Adventurer Camp, Sossusvlei After an early breakfast, we drive southwards to Walvis Bay Lagoon. Here in a protected bay, many flamingos, pelicans and other waterfowl amass. On the calm waters of the bay, we experience sea kayaking, a spectacular activity that allows us to approach the waterbirds at a respectable distance and in their habitat, allowing for some unique photographic opportunities of birds flying low over the bay.
We enjoy a seafood lunch served on the beach and afterwards drive inland to the Kulala Adventurer Camp in our private Sossusvlei concession. Here we enjoy access to the Sossusvlei dunes, for walks in the immense moving sands of the Namib, game drives on our concession and stargazing. Photography in the early morning of the dunes is particularly stunning with rich reds and dark shadows completing the extraordinary vista that is the enormity of the Namib Desert.
Day 11: Transfer to Windhoek After breakfast we transfer by road, including lunch overlooking the view of the plains nearby, to Windhoek and bid farewell to the adventure.
THIS ITINERARY IS AVAILABLE ON FLEXIBLE DATES AND ITINERARIES, FOR TAILOR-MADE SAFARIS FOR SMALL GROUPS UP TO EIGHT GUESTS.

THE GREAT NAMIBIAN JOURNEY

A Discoverer Exploration ? 12 nights /13 days
Combination Wilderness lodges, hotel and fully serviced Discoverer camping in private concession areas.
Namibia is a land of stunning landscapes, endless skies, barren deserts, rugged mountains and spectacular wildlife - and the Great Namibian Journey encompasses it all. This cross-section explores the dunes of Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert, the stark beauty of the Skeleton Coast, amazing marine life just off Swakopmund, the volcanic rock strewn landscape of Damaraland and the game-filled savannah of Etosha. The activities provide a wide range of differing impressions, from scenic flights up the Skeleton Coast, dolphin cruises with private beach lunch, to hiking and cycling in Damaraland, walking in the Namib's great dunes and interacting with traditional Himba people. This safari combines the exclusive luxurious lodges of Wilderness Safaris with the remote locations of private Discoverer campsites, in unique meru tents.
The style of accommodation in the private Discoverer campsites takes you back to the era of Africa's exploration. Pure linens of heavy cottons, brass bucket showers and basins, separate flushing toilets and shower areas all add to the atmosphere, while comforts and amenities are elegantly provided. Discoverer camping aims to bring the guest closer to nature, by means of a lively camp fire, hurricane lanterns, wide-ranging activities and a warm atmosphere complimenting the comfort and added luxury of the lodges visited. Discoverer camps are specifically outfitted to ensure that old-style camping feel with a clear emphasis on necessary and stylish comfortable interiors, creating a peerless wilderness experience.
Guides: The entire safari is guided and hosted by a professional trained guide, with in-depth knowledge and experienced knowledge that creates an unsurpassed seamless safari experience.
Exclusive experience: Most areas in which we travel are private concessions, with Discoverer campsites being for the sole use of Discoverer Safari guests. At the lodges and hotels en route we have the chance to meet other Wilderness Safaris guests.
Routes: To maximise guests' travel time, a variety of travel modes that bring out the best of each area is used: flying in private charters and overland transfers provide both a bird's-eye view and an in-depth experience of the contrasting landscapes of Namibia.

Brief Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: From Windhoek drive to Kulala Wilderness Camp, Sossusvlei.
Days 3 & 4: Drive to Hansa Hotel, Swakopmund.
Days 5: Drive to Damaraland Camp, Damaraland.
Days 6 & 7: Drive to Desert Rhino Camp, Damaraland.
Days 8 & 9: Drive to Ongava Tented Camp, Etosha.
Days 10, 11 & 12: Fly to Skeleton Coast Research Camp, Skeleton Coast National Park.
Day 13: Fly to Windhoek.

Detailed Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: Kulala Wilderness Camp, Sossusvlei From Windhoek, travel by vehicle approximately 380km to Kulala Wilderness Camp, enjoying awe-inspiring views of the mountains and the desert floor - on a clear day you can see the fog banks of the Skeleton Coast. En route, we enjoy a lunch close to the Khomas Hochland escarpment, reaching onto sweeping vistas below.
One of the most enduring impressions of this area is the early morning light on the sea of vivid orange dunes of Sossusvlei, some as high as 300 metres. Afternoon activities include nature walks, drives to scenic viewpoints and marvelling at the unique Namib fauna and flora in the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve. Kulala Wilderness Camp lies at the foot of a mountain facing west to catch the majestic Namibian sunsets. It comprises 9 tents on elevated wooden decks which are linked to the main dining room, bar, reception area and swimming pool by pathways. The interiors are simple yet stylish and each tent has 220V lighting and an en-suite bathroom with solar-heated water. There is a fully stocked bar and traditional 3-course dinners are served. At night, lanterns light up the main area. On the edge of the oldest desert in the world, wildlife here is sparse but fascinating. Sightings of animals such as springbok, gemsbok, ostrich, bat-eared fox and aardwolf are exciting in these rugged conditions.
Days 3 & 4: Hansa Hotel, Swakopmund Travel by road north-west via the Kuiseb Canyon with its dark, craggy canyons and via a moon-like landscape of flat gravel plains (with stops along the way that include viewing the extraordinary Welwitschia plants). We arrive at the grand Hansa Hotel in Swakopmund in the late afternoon.On our second day we explore the ice-blue Atlantic coast, from the port towns of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund to its incredible marine mammals. A private boat cruise at Walvis Bay and down the coast to Sandwich Harbour (weather permitting) provides a unique chance to see the diverse pelagic (ocean-going) birdlife, Cape fur seals and rare Heaviside's dolphins up close. This activity is rounded off with a private seafood lunch, before returning to the hotel in the afternoon. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the charming town of Swakopmund before meeting in the evening for dinner.
The grand three-star Hansa Hotel forms part of Swakopmund's architectural culture and dates back to 1905; it is said to be one of the oldest buildings in the town. It is ideally situated in the centre of Swakopmund within easy walking distance of town and the beach. The luxury of the hotel, its excellent cuisine and friendly service are well known and appreciated countrywide and overseas.
Day 5: Damaraland Camp, Damaraland Travel approximately 280km, partly up the legendary Skeleton Coast (named for the numerous shipwrecks the treacherous shores have claimed over the years) to the Cape Cross seal colony with thousands of Cape fur seals. (We'll visit Cape Cross only if we have not seen large populations of seals on the boat cruise from Walvis Bay.) From here we drive the back roads through the game productive Ugab riverbed, travelling north past the Brandberg Mountain - the second largest monolith on earth - to Damaraland.
Damaraland is a land of stark desert beauty. Early morning mists, generated by the clash between the icy Atlantic Ocean and the warm desert air of the Skeleton Coast, drift inland along the canyons, providing sustenance to the flora and fauna of the region. Rare succulent plants abound in this harsh countryside. Our activities include explorations on foot, by mountain bike or 4x4 vehicles, viewing springbok, gemsbok and ostrich, and tracking the unique desert-adapted elephant. On the way through this area, we are treated to some remote petrified forests and experience the Gai As spring with its archaeological stone circles. This all-day excursion with lunch en route, ends with our arrival at Damaraland Camp.
Damaraland Camp accommodates guests in 10 comfortable tented rooms, with en-suite facilities including flush toilets and showers with hot and cold running water. (Laundry facilities are limited due to the low rainfall in the area..) The dining room and pub are combined under canvas, and an open fire is enjoyed on calm evenings. A lovely feature of the camp is its unique rock pool.
Days 6 & 7: Desert Rhino Camp, Damaraland We depart Damaraland Camp and drive into the Huab riverbed to search for desert-adapted elephants, before heading north to the mountainous and rocky paradise of the massive Palmwag Concession.
Desert Rhino Camp is situated in the 1-million-acre private Palmwag Reserve in north-west Namibia, between Etosha and the Skeleton Coast - few places on the planet can offer this level of privacy and wilderness experience.
This reserve has a number of freshwater springs that support healthy populations of animals including desert-adapted back rhino and elephant as well as large populations of the rare Hartmann's mountain zebra, giraffe, gemsbok, springbok and kudu. The predator population is the largest outside of the Etosha National Park including lion, cheetah, leopard, brown and spotted hyaena. Bird life is prolific and diverse featuring most of Namibia's endemics. Welwitschia plants (ancient and highly unusual succulents) dot the plain in front of the camp. The speciality of the area is its growing population of the rare desert-adapted black rhino (the largest concentration in the world outside a national park), which are monitored and protected by the Save the Rhino Trust. Desert Rhino Camp accommodates guests in 7 large East African-style Meru tents, each with an en-suite bathroom and a classic bucket shower that is filled with hot water whenever needed. Lights are powered by solar panels and the tented dining room offers uninterrupted views of the desert and mountains. On the second day, the highlight is rhino tracking on foot or by vehicle; other activities include day and night nature drives.
Days 8 & 9: Ongava Tented Camp, Etosha National Park We depart Palmwag eastward on an extended combination wildlife viewing (first part of the drive) and transfer drive of approximately 350km to Etosha National Park, where we experience the pinnacle of game viewing - but accommodated in the privacy of an exclusive bush camp situated on an extensive private game reserve, Ongava, just on the outside of Etosha. Activities include day and night drives, walks and hides. Within Etosha we visit numerous perennial springs and pans, encountering a myriad of differing species.
Ongava Tented Camp comprises 10 large comfortable walk-in tents, each with en-suite facilities, including flush toilet and a hot shower. All meals are enjoyed in the thatched dining area that overlooks an active waterhole. There is a small pool in which to cool off as well.
Days 10, 11 & 12: Skeleton Coast Research Camp, Skeleton Coast National Park Enjoy a breathtaking scenic flight over dramatic desert landscapes to the exclusive Skeleton Coast Research Camp situated in a private concession in the Skeleton Coast Park. This is one of the most inhospitable but hauntingly beautiful places on the planet: desolate and uninhabited. It has everything, from roaring sand dunes, windswept plains, towering canyons and saltpans to seal colonies and shipwrecks. Full-day explorations in 4x4 Land Rovers will take all these in, picnicking on the way. Included are cultural visits to the remote villages of the Himba people. Skeleton Coast Research Camp comprises 5 Meru tents nestled between granite rocks. Surrounded by pure wilderness, this camp is truly remote and the perfect setting for a serviced style of camping. The camp is outfitted with necessary comforts and equipment, essential elements to the old and relaxed manner of early explorers.
Day 13: Charter flight to Windhoek Say farewell to the adventure as we return by air charter to Windhoek, arriving at approximately 4pm late afternoon.
THIS ITINERARY IS AVAILABLE ON FLEXIBLE DATES AND ITINERARIES, FOR TAILOR-MADE SAFARIS FOR SMALL GROUPS UP TO EIGHT GUESTS.

Notes: Rates are subject to change without prior notice should tax be increased or Government levies introduced. Rates include Value Added Tax.

6 nights or longer in any of Wilderness Safaris' camps & lodges (except Skeleton Coast):
3% discount!

Full list of camps and lodges is here

Reservations & information:

Elena Travel Services & Car Hire CC
P.O. Box 3127 Windhoek, Namibia
Fax: +264 61 244558
E-mail: info@namibweb.com

To book:

1) you can e-mail us requesting information and/or rates

Reservations are only accepted in writing: by fax or via e-mail.
Final availability confirmation: in writing: by fax or via e-mail.