7-Day Big Cats, Etosha & Desert Namibia Safari
Embark on an unforgettable Namibia Safari that blends big cat encounters, iconic desert landscapes, and top wildlife destinations. This 7-day tour explores Etosha National Park, Swakopmund, and the ancient dunes of the Namib Desert, offering a perfect mix of adventure and affordability.
Namibia Safari Highlights
- Visit N/a’an ku sê Wildlife Sanctuary and support local conservation
- Enjoy game drives in Etosha National Park with chances to spot lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos
- Explore Swakopmund and optional coastal activities
- Experience the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei, and Sesriem Canyon in the Namib Desert
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek & Visit to Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary
Your Namibia Safari begins with a transfer from Windhoek Airport to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll observe conservation in action and see rehabilitated animals. After the visit, enjoy sundowners before returning to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.
Day 2: Windhoek to Etosha National Park
Depart early for Etosha National Park, Namibia’s premier wildlife reserve. After a brief stop in Otjiwarongo, arrive at Halali Camp inside the park. Enjoy afternoon game viewing at waterholes and a spotlit evening at the camp’s waterhole.
Day 3: Full-Day Game Viewing in Etosha
Spend the day exploring Etosha National Park. Spot four of Africa’s Big Five and witness the dramatic Etosha Pan. Visit popular waterholes, enjoy a picnic lunch, and later transfer to Okaukuejo Camp to view wildlife at dusk before heading to a nearby lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Etosha to Swakopmund
After breakfast, travel through scenic Damaraland with stops at Herero and Himba craft markets. Arrive in Swakopmund and enjoy a walking tour of this German-influenced coastal town. Dinner is at your own leisure with several restaurant options available.
Day 5: Swakopmund to the Namib Desert
Spend the morning exploring Swakopmund or join an optional activity such as sandboarding or dolphin cruising. Depart around midday and journey south through Solitaire into the Namib Desert. Arrive at your lodge near Sesriem in time for a sunset walk and dinner.
Day 6: Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei & Sesriem Canyon
Start the day early with a sunrise drive into Namib-Naukluft National Park. Explore Sossusvlei and climb the famous Dune 45. Visit the hauntingly beautiful Dead Vlei and the narrow gorge of Sesriem Canyon. Return to your lodge for a scenic sunset and final dinner in the desert.
Day 7: Namib Desert to Windhoek
After breakfast, travel back to Windhoek via Solitaire and the Naukluft Mountains. Stop for a taste of the famous apple pie before arriving in the city. End your Namibia Safari with a drop-off at your accommodation or transfer to the airport.
Namibia Safari Accommodation
- Etosha Lodges: Twin-share permanent tents near Etosha with en-suite bathrooms, AC, and swimming pool.
- Swakopmund: Centrally located lodge with private en-suite rooms, close to the beach and shops.
- Namib Desert: Permanent tented chalets near Sesriem with views of the dunes, a pool, and braai facilities.
Vehicles Used on this Namibia Safari
Depending on the group size, travel will be in well-equipped 4×4 Land Cruisers, station wagons, or customized safari vehicles with pop-up roofs and charging ports.
Etosha National Park Overview
Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s top game reserves, home to over 114 mammal species and four of the Big Five. Its salt pan, known as the ‘Great White Place’, offers excellent wildlife viewing against a surreal backdrop. Spot elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, giraffes, cheetahs, and a range of antelope on your Namibia Safari.
Important Travel Info
- Flights or bus transfers should only be booked for after 17h00 on Day 7.
- Children aged 5–11 sharing with two adults qualify for child rates.
- Alternate lodges of similar standards may be used based on availability.
This 7-day Namibia Safari is the ideal way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, desert wonders, and rich wildlife on a budget-friendly, guided adventure.