Namibia Wildlife And Water By Road & Air
This 12-day safari through northern Namibia is ideal for those who value the quiet rewards of unhurried travel. Designed for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, the journey offers the chance to explore diverse and remote ecosystems—each supporting an impressive range of species and natural beauty.
From open savannahs and woodland to wetlands and river systems, this route takes you through some of Namibia’s most significant conservation areas, including Etosha National Park, the Zambezi Region, and community-led reserves. These protected habitats are home to a variety of wildlife—from elephant, giraffe, and plains game to more elusive species such as leopard and cheetah. Birdlife is exceptional too, with riverine environments attracting hundreds of species including kingfishers, fish eagles, and migratory visitors.
This is not a fast-paced or overly commercial safari. Instead, it’s a chance to travel mindfully, with time to observe wildlife in its natural setting, appreciate the landscape, and learn more about this lesser visited region.
Whether it’s watching wildlife at a waterhole in Etosha, drifting along the quiet channels of the Kwando River, or hearing the call of a fish eagle over the Zambezi, this safari offers a rich and memorable experience of Namibia’s northern wilderness.
Itinerary in Detail
DAY BY DAY
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Tour Experiences
Day 1 – WINDHOEK – OKONJIMA
Distance – 268km / Approximate journey time 3hrs
After landing at Windhoek International (Hosea Kutako) Airport, located 40km outside Windhoek, you will be met by a representative of at the arrivals terminal. You will be transferred by road into Windhoek to the Galton House, which is the base from where you will collect your rental vehicle and where you can freshen up from the long flight. Your representative will provide you with a full safari briefing and assist you with your vehicle handover.
You will be provided with everything that you will need for your self-drive safari; from a map marked with your route to self-drive directions.
Also ensure that you have your driver’s license, credit card, and passport on hand to complete the vehicle hire documents.
After the briefing you depart Windhoek. You may wish to stock up on a few supplies in the capital city before continuing north to Okahandja and further towards Otjiwarongo to reach Okonjima and the AfriCat foundation. Here you can enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, superb accommodation and fantastic activities; starting with a guided afternoon AfriCat activity, if time permits and that is included.
Overnight Okonjima Plains Camp (View Room / Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 2 – OKONJIMA – ETOSHA
Distance – 236km / Approximate journey time 2.5-3hrs
This morning is spent on an exciting AfriCat activity before returning for a hearty brunch, at an additional cost.
Afterwards you will be driving via the towns of Otjiwarongo and Outjo to reach the outskirts of the southern boundary of the Etosha National Park.
Time allowing, you can enter the Etosha National Park for some exciting game viewing, exiting the park again at sunset to return to your accommodation in time for dinner, or alternatively you can join a game drive on the accommodation private reserve in an open game viewer with a local lodge guide where applicable (shared activity), at an additional cost.
Overnight Etosha Oberland Lodge (Suite / Full Board & Local Drinks)
Day 3 – ETOSHA
You have the option to drive to Etosha National Park in your rental vehicle at your own time. Explore and stop over at the various waterholes in the hope of experiencing some exciting wildlife sightings on your self-guided day.
You can have lunch (for own account) at any of the rest camps inside the park. After your arrival back at Etosha Oberland Lodge, the rest of the day is spent at your leisure (very often this is welcomed since you have spent most of the day in the vehicle game driving in the park).
Overnight Etosha Oberland Lodge (Suite / Full Board & Local Drinks)
Day 4 – ETOSHA (EAST)
Distance – 185km / Approximate journey time 3.5hrs
Today is a full day of game viewing as you travel through Etosha, visiting the waterholes further to the east and exiting the park in the late afternoon at Etosha’s Von Lindequist Gate. Not far from the gate, approx 8kms, you’ll reach Mushara Lodge, your home for the night. Spend the evening in the comfort of this lodge, completing your Etosha adventure on a high note.
Overnight Mushara Lodge (Double Chalet / Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 5 – ETOSHA – RUNDU
Distance – 415km / Approximate journey time 4-4.5hrs
Today you leave behind the plains of Etosha and head towards the Kavango Region in northeast Namibia, travelling through the small towns of Tsumeb, Grootfontein, and small communities until reaching the Rundu area, which is a relatively lush riverine environment of Namibia.
As you enter the Kavango and Zambezi Strip Regions you will observe the striking contrast of this wetter environment to the arid landscapes that typify the rest of the country.
Hakusembe River Lodge, a green oasis on the banks of the Kavango river. Enjoy the peaceful surrounds of this relaxing lodge.
Please note activities have not been included and can be arranged at time of booking.
Overnight Hakusembe River Lodge (Standard Chalet / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 6 – RUNDU – KWANDO RIVER
Distance – 440km / Approximate journey time 5hrs
The drive today is eastward, towards the lush north-eastern corner of Namibia. Once known as the Caprivi, now renamed the Zambezi Region, it is a tree-filled expanse bisected by waterways. Bwabwata National Park runs from the Okavango River to the Kwando River. The floodplains of the Kwando River in Namibia is in the heart of KAZA, the World’d Largest Conservation Area for Wildlife.
Namushasha River Lodge is set on the riverbank amidst the trees, the lodge is alive with the sound of hippos and birds and is a veritable wonderland in the region. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty of the area.
Overnight Namushasha River Lodge (Standard Room / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 7 – KWANDO RIVER
Today can be spent on leisure and relaxation at Namushasha River Lodge or you can do any of the activities offered by the lodge at an additional cost.
Overnight Namushasha River Lodge (Standard Room / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 8 – KWANDO – CHOBE
Distance – 195km / Approximate journey time 2.5hrs
Today takes you to the Chobe River and Chobe River Camp positioned on its banks overlooking the floodplains. From Namushasha River Lodge drive in an easterly direction to Katima Mulilo. The road passes through the Mdumu and Nkasa Rupara National Parks and wildlife can often be seen along the roadside.
Chobe River Camp lies across from Chobe National Park. Join an excursion or spend a relaxed afternoon at the camp. Dine outdoors in the Lapa under the stars, listen to birdsong and revel in the calm beauty of this refreshingly simple African camp.
Please note activities have not been included and can be arranged at time of booking.
Overnight Chobe River Camp (Safari Tent / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 9 – CHOBE
A full day to enjoy the tranquil surroundings in this beautiful location. Guests can take a boat trip, one of the finest excursions in the country to spot buffalo, elephant, water-adapted antelope, and a variety of birdlife from the comfort of the boat. In drier times of the year, a guided nature drive along the river course provides an opportunity for game viewing.
Please note activities have not been included and can be arranged at time of booking.
Overnight Chobe River Camp (Safari Tent / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 10 – CHOBE – ZAMBEZI
Distance – 80km / Approximate journey time 1.5hrs
Today after breakast you set off towards the Zambezi Region. The drive will take you through scenic routes that showcase the unique beauty of Namibia, where lush greenery and riverine ecosystems await.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way, as you may spot elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species that inhabit this vibrant region. The journey to Zambezi Region is not just a drive; it’s an immersion into the heart of Namibia’s natural wonders.
Upon arrival, you will find Zambezi Mubala Camp, perfectly situated to explore this remarkable area.
Please note activities have not been included and can be arranged at time of booking.
Overnight Zambezi Mubala Camp (Standard Room / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 11 – ZAMBEZI
The Zambezi River is popular for fishing, birding, boating and photography and today you have the opportunity to spend the day at your leisure at Zambezi Mubala Camp or you can do any of the activities offered by the camp at an additional cost.
Overnight Zambezi Mubala Camp (Standard Room / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 12 – ZAMBEZI – WINDHOEK
Distance – 40km / Approximate journey time 1hrs + flight time 1.5hrs
Depart Zambezi Mubala Camp for the drive to Katima Mulilo, where you will leave your hire car and depart on the flight back to Windhoek.
On arrival into Windhoek, you will be met and transferred to your pre-arranged accommodation in Windhoek for the night.
Tour Experiences
Day 1 – WINDHOEK – OKONJIMA
Distance – 268km / Approximate journey time 3hrs
After landing at Windhoek International (Hosea Kutako) Airport, located 40km outside Windhoek, you will be met by a representative of at the arrivals terminal. You will be transferred by road into Windhoek to the Galton House, which is the base from where you will collect your rental vehicle and where you can freshen up from the long flight. Your representative will provide you with a full safari briefing and assist you with your vehicle handover.
You will be provided with everything that you will need for your self-drive safari; from a map marked with your route to self-drive directions.
Also ensure that you have your driver’s license, credit card, and passport on hand to complete the vehicle hire documents.
After the briefing you depart Windhoek. You may wish to stock up on a few supplies in the capital city before continuing north to Okahandja and further towards Otjiwarongo to reach Okonjima and the AfriCat foundation. Here you can enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, superb accommodation and fantastic activities; starting with a guided afternoon AfriCat activity, if time permits and that is included.
Overnight Okonjima Plains Camp (View Room / Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 2 – OKONJIMA – ETOSHA
Distance – 236km / Approximate journey time 2.5-3hrs
This morning is spent on an exciting AfriCat activity before returning for a hearty brunch, at an additional cost.
Afterwards you will be driving via the towns of Otjiwarongo and Outjo to reach the outskirts of the southern boundary of the Etosha National Park.
Time allowing, you can enter the Etosha National Park for some exciting game viewing, exiting the park again at sunset to return to your accommodation in time for dinner, or alternatively you can join a game drive on the accommodation private reserve in an open game viewer with a local lodge guide where applicable (shared activity), at an additional cost.
Overnight Etosha Oberland Lodge (Suite / Full Board & Local Drinks)
Day 3 – ETOSHA
You have the option to drive to Etosha National Park in your rental vehicle at your own time. Explore and stop over at the various waterholes in the hope of experiencing some exciting wildlife sightings on your self-guided day.
You can have lunch (for own account) at any of the rest camps inside the park. After your arrival back at Etosha Oberland Lodge, the rest of the day is spent at your leisure (very often this is welcomed since you have spent most of the day in the vehicle game driving in the park).
Overnight Etosha Oberland Lodge (Suite / Full Board & Local Drinks)
Day 4 – ETOSHA (EAST)
Distance – 185km / Approximate journey time 3.5hrs
Today is a full day of game viewing as you travel through Etosha, visiting the waterholes further to the east and exiting the park in the late afternoon at Etosha’s Von Lindequist Gate. Not far from the gate, approx 8kms, you’ll reach Mushara Lodge, your home for the night. Spend the evening in the comfort of this lodge, completing your Etosha adventure on a high note.
Overnight Mushara Lodge (Double Chalet / Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 5 – ETOSHA – RUNDU
Distance – 415km / Approximate journey time 4-4.5hrs
Today you leave behind the plains of Etosha and head towards the Kavango Region in northeast Namibia, travelling through the small towns of Tsumeb, Grootfontein, and small communities until reaching the Rundu area, which is a relatively lush riverine environment of Namibia.
As you enter the Kavango and Zambezi Strip Regions you will observe the striking contrast of this wetter environment to the arid landscapes that typify the rest of the country.
Hakusembe River Lodge, a green oasis on the banks of the Kavango river. Enjoy the peaceful surrounds of this relaxing lodge.
Please note activities have not been included and can be arranged at time of booking.
Overnight Hakusembe River Lodge (Standard Chalet / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 6 – RUNDU – KWANDO RIVER
Distance – 440km / Approximate journey time 5hrs
The drive today is eastward, towards the lush north-eastern corner of Namibia. Once known as the Caprivi, now renamed the Zambezi Region, it is a tree-filled expanse bisected by waterways. Bwabwata National Park runs from the Okavango River to the Kwando River. The floodplains of the Kwando River in Namibia is in the heart of KAZA, the World’d Largest Conservation Area for Wildlife.
Namushasha River Lodge is set on the riverbank amidst the trees, the lodge is alive with the sound of hippos and birds and is a veritable wonderland in the region. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty of the area.
Overnight Namushasha River Lodge (Standard Room / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 7 – KWANDO RIVER
Today can be spent on leisure and relaxation at Namushasha River Lodge or you can do any of the activities offered by the lodge at an additional cost.
Overnight Namushasha River Lodge (Standard Room / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 8 – KWANDO – CHOBE
Distance – 195km / Approximate journey time 2.5hrs
Today takes you to the Chobe River and Chobe River Camp positioned on its banks overlooking the floodplains. From Namushasha River Lodge drive in an easterly direction to Katima Mulilo. The road passes through the Mdumu and Nkasa Rupara National Parks and wildlife can often be seen along the roadside.
Chobe River Camp lies across from Chobe National Park. Join an excursion or spend a relaxed afternoon at the camp. Dine outdoors in the Lapa under the stars, listen to birdsong and revel in the calm beauty of this refreshingly simple African camp.
Please note activities have not been included and can be arranged at time of booking.
Overnight Chobe River Camp (Safari Tent / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 9 – CHOBE
A full day to enjoy the tranquil surroundings in this beautiful location. Guests can take a boat trip, one of the finest excursions in the country to spot buffalo, elephant, water-adapted antelope, and a variety of birdlife from the comfort of the boat. In drier times of the year, a guided nature drive along the river course provides an opportunity for game viewing.
Please note activities have not been included and can be arranged at time of booking.
Overnight Chobe River Camp (Safari Tent / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 10 – CHOBE – ZAMBEZI
Distance – 80km / Approximate journey time 1.5hrs
Today after breakast you set off towards the Zambezi Region. The drive will take you through scenic routes that showcase the unique beauty of Namibia, where lush greenery and riverine ecosystems await.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way, as you may spot elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species that inhabit this vibrant region. The journey to Zambezi Region is not just a drive; it’s an immersion into the heart of Namibia’s natural wonders.
Upon arrival, you will find Zambezi Mubala Camp, perfectly situated to explore this remarkable area.
Please note activities have not been included and can be arranged at time of booking.
Overnight Zambezi Mubala Camp (Standard Room / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 11 – ZAMBEZI
The Zambezi River is popular for fishing, birding, boating and photography and today you have the opportunity to spend the day at your leisure at Zambezi Mubala Camp or you can do any of the activities offered by the camp at an additional cost.
Overnight Zambezi Mubala Camp (Standard Room / Bed & Breakfast)
Day 12 – ZAMBEZI – WINDHOEK
Distance – 40km / Approximate journey time 1hrs + flight time 1.5hrs
Depart Zambezi Mubala Camp for the drive to Katima Mulilo, where you will leave your hire car and depart on the flight back to Windhoek.
On arrival into Windhoek, you will be met and transferred to your pre-arranged accommodation in Windhoek for the night.
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