15-Day Prestige Best Namibia, Botswana & Victoria Falls

Arrival: Welcome to Windhoek

Upon your arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, you will be met and assisted by our team. Following a tour briefing with your Dunas Safari consultant, you will collect your 4x4 rental vehicle (Toyota Double Cab/Fortuner or similar). Please ensure you have a valid credit card ready to cover the rental contract costs.

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is a clean, safe, and well-organized city that offers a fascinating blend of historical colonial architecture and modern development. During your stay, we recommend exploring some of the city's notable landmarks:

• The Alte Feste (Old Fort): One of the oldest surviving buildings in the city.
• Christuskirche (Christ Church): A beautiful 1896 Lutheran church that serves as a historic city landmark.
• The Supreme Court: A striking example of Namibia’s contemporary architecture.

The city also boasts a wide array of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues for you to enjoy at your leisure. 

Main Destination:
Windhoek (City, Namibia)

Accommodation:
Windhoek Country Club Resort

• Luxury hotel in Windhoek

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast included
• Lunch and dinner not included
• Drinks not included

Journey from Windhoek to Sossusvlei

After breakfast, you will depart Windhoek and head toward the magnificent Sossusvlei region. This area is home to the iconic red sand dunes of the Namib Desert, a place where vast blue skies contrast with towering dunes to create one of Africa’s most celebrated natural wonders and a true paradise for photographers.

During your time here, be sure to explore the region’s highlights, including Dune 45, Hiddenvlei, Big Daddy, and the hauntingly beautiful Deadvlei. Additionally, the area offers access to the Sesriem Canyon and the vast expanse of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, where dramatic mountains meet the desert plains.

Recommended Activity: Hot Air Ballooning
For an unforgettable experience, we highly recommend a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Drifting silently over the shifting colors of the dunes is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Upon landing, you will celebrate your flight with a traditional "Out Of Africa" style Champagne breakfast in the heart of the desert.

Main Destination:
Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes, Namibia)

Accommodation:
Desert Quiver Camp

• Mid-range self-catering accommodation, located less than an hour's drive from the Sossusvlei entrance gate. The camp is renowned for its inspiring scenery, granite outcrops, and spectacular views.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Exploring Sossusvlei: Dunes and Ancient Wonders

Today is a day for immersion in the extraordinary landscapes of Sossusvlei. This region is a photographer's paradise, offering a surreal mix of colors, textures, and ancient history.

• Deadvlei: Once an oasis fed by a river, this ancient clay pan now features the haunting, 900-year-old skeletons of camel thorn trees. Because the climate is so dry, the trees never decomposed; they remain as blackened, desiccated sentinels against the vibrant, red-pink backdrop of the surrounding dunes.
• Dune 45: Situated 45 kilometers from Sesriem, this dune is celebrated for its elegant curves and accessibility. Its iconic shape has earned it the reputation as the "most photographed dune in the world."
• Sesriem Canyon: A deep, dramatic chasm carved through the rock by water over millennia. It is a striking natural feature and is best experienced by walking through its narrow, shaded passages.

Main Destination:
Sossusvlei (Sand Dunes, Namibia)

Accommodation:
Desert Quiver Camp

• Mid-range self-catering accommodation, located less than an hour's drive from Sossusvlei.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Journey from Sossusvlei to Swakopmund

Today, your journey takes you from the desert dunes of Sossusvlei toward the Atlantic coast and the charming town of Swakopmund. Along the way, you will make a couple of notable stops:

• Solitaire: This vital desert outpost is an essential stop for refueling. It serves as the primary location for petrol, a general store, and postal services between Sesriem and Walvis Bay.
• Tropic of Capricorn: You will pass the marker for the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° South), one of the five major circles of latitude. It is a fantastic photo opportunity and marks your journey through one of the planet's significant geographic landmarks.

Arriving in Swakopmund
Founded in 1892 as the main harbor for German South West Africa, Swakopmund is a unique destination often described as "more German than Germany." Today, it serves as the capital of the Skeleton Coast tourism area. You will be captivated by the town's quirky blend of German colonial architecture, Namibian culture, and the refreshing, cool sea breeze. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure—whether that means exploring the historic town center, browsing the local shops, or enjoying the coastal atmosphere.

Main Destination:
Swakopmund (City, Namibia)

Accommodation:
Desert Breeze

• Mid-range lodge located near Swakopmund

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast included
• Lunch and dinner not included
• Drinks not included

Coastal Adventure: Marine Cruise & Sandwich Harbour

Your day begins with an early morning drive to Walvis Bay, where excitement awaits. You will embark on a combined marine and desert adventure, starting with an 8:15 am departure that lasts until 4:00 pm.

Marine Cruise: You will set sail on a spacious and comfortable catamaran to search for the "Marine Big Five"—dolphins, whales, turtles, seals, and Mola Mola (sunfish). While enjoying the ocean breeze, you will be treated to sparkling wine, fresh Namibian oysters, and a variety of delicious snacks.

Sandwich Harbour 4x4: Following your time on the water, your adventure continues into the Namib Desert up to Sandwich Harbour. This excursion offers a dramatic contrast, where towering sand dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean. A delicious lunch will be served right on the beach, allowing you to fully enjoy this unique coastal landscape.

Main Destination:
Swakopmund (City, Namibia)

Accommodation:
Desert Breeze

• Mid-range lodge located near Swakopmund

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast included
• Lunch is provided on the beach during your excursion
• Dinner not included
• Drinks (other than those provided on the cruise) are not included

Journey to Etosha National Park

Following breakfast, your journey leads you toward the world-renowned Etosha National Park, Namibia's premier safari destination. Located in the northwest of the country, this park offers a spectacular game-viewing experience. The landscape is a diverse mosaic of habitats, ranging from dense mopane bushveld to expansive open plains, which in turn support a magnificent variety of wildlife.

The centerpiece of the park is the Etosha Pan—a vast, shallow depression covering approximately 5,000 square kilometers. While it remains dry and shimmering for the majority of the year, it transforms into a vital water source after significant rains, attracting large concentrations of animals.

Main Destination:
Etosha National Park (Namibia)

Wildlife Highlights in Etosha

• Elephant: Abundant
• Zebra & Wildebeest: Abundant
• Giraffe: Common
• Black Rhino & Lion: Occasional

Accommodation:
Etosha Village Camp

• Mid-range lodge located just 2km from the Anderson Gate entrance of Etosha National Park. Set within a beautiful Mopane forest, this camp offers excellent dining, swimming pools, and a variety of guided safari activities.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Full-Day Safari in Etosha National Park

Today is dedicated entirely to wildlife exploration. You have a full day to embark on a self-drive game drive through Etosha National Park using your rental vehicle. Entering through the southern Andersson’s Gate, you will have the freedom to explore the park's diverse network of roads at your own pace, stopping to observe the incredible animal sightings that make Etosha world-famous.

Highlights of your safari:
The park is home to a staggering diversity of species. Keep your camera ready for encounters with lions, towering giraffes, majestic elephants, both white and black rhinos, and vast herds of plains game such as springbok, gemsbok, and zebra.

Suggested Activities:

• Game Viewing: Utilize the park’s numerous waterholes, which act as magnets for wildlife, especially during the drier months.
• Guided Experiences: Many visitors also choose to participate in optional activities offered by local lodges, such as tracking rhinos on foot or joining guided nature walks to learn more about the park's unique ecosystem.
• Sunset Watching: Ensure you find a scenic spot to watch the sun set over the dramatic landscapes of the Etosha Pan before heading back to the lodge.

Main Destination:
Etosha National Park (Namibia)

Accommodation:
Etosha Village Camp

• Mid-range lodge located just outside the park, offering a comfortable base for your daily excursions.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Second Day of Safari in Etosha National Park

Today offers another fantastic opportunity to explore the depths of Etosha National Park. With your own rental vehicle, you have the flexibility to seek out wildlife you may have missed on your previous game drives.

Safari Tips for Today:

• Focus on Waterholes: To maximize your chances of seeing a wide variety of wildlife—from predators and plains game to reptiles and birdlife—spend time near the park's waterholes. These are the social hubs of the park, where animals congregate throughout the day to drink.
• Vary Your Routes: Don't hesitate to take different roads or explore new sections of the park. Each area of Etosha offers unique vegetation and different opportunities for photography and observation.
• Keep an Eye Out: In addition to the famous larger mammals, take a moment to notice the smaller details—the vibrant bird species, fascinating reptiles, and the intricate behaviors of the plains game, which are just as rewarding to observe.

Main Destination:
Etosha National Park (Namibia)

Accommodation:
Emanya @Etosha Lodge

• Luxury lodge located just outside Etosha National Park, offering a serene and comfortable retreat after your day in the bush.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Journey to Divundu and the Okavango River

Today you will depart Etosha National Park and travel toward Divundu, a gateway to the lush landscapes of northeastern Namibia. This transition takes you from the arid plains of Etosha to the verdant, water-rich environment of the Zambezi Region.

Your destination is the tranquil Ndhovu Safari Lodge, nestled on the western banks of the Okavango River, approximately 20km south of the Divundu Bridge and just past the scenic Popa Falls. This peaceful riverine retreat overlooks the Bwabwata National Park, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the river.

During your stay, you can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere or embark on a game drive to explore the rich biodiversity of the surrounding area, known for its abundant birdlife and river-dwelling animals.

Main Destination:
Divundu (Town, Namibia)

Accommodation:
Ndhovu Safari Lodge

• Mid-range lodge situated just outside Bwabwata National Park, providing stunning river views and easy access to local game-viewing excursions.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Wildlife Exploration in Divundu

Today is a day to embrace the rich biodiversity of the Zambezi Region through two distinct experiences.

Morning: Buffalo Core Area Game Drive
Your day begins with a morning game drive into the Buffalo Core Area of Bwabwata National Park. Located just 2km from your lodge, this area offers excellent opportunities to view diverse wildlife in their natural riverine and swampland habitats. Keep your eyes peeled for herds of elephant and buffalo, as well as red lechwe and the magnificent sable antelope.

Afternoon: Okavango River Cruise
In the afternoon, you will embark on a relaxing cruise along the Okavango River. This is a perfect way to witness the river’s ecosystem firsthand, with chances to spot hippos, crocodiles, and elephants congregating along the banks. As you return to the lodge, you can unwind with sundowners at the bar while enjoying the serene river view, followed by a delicious buffet dinner.

Birdwatcher’s Paradise:
With over 400 different species recorded in the surrounding area, this is an exceptional location for bird enthusiasts. Whether on your morning drive or your afternoon boat trip, be sure to have your binoculars ready.

Main Destination:
Divundu (Town, Namibia)

Accommodation:
Ndhovu Safari Lodge

• Mid-range lodge situated just outside Bwabwata National Park.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Arrival in Chobe National Park

Today requires an early departure to reach Chobe. Upon your arrival in Kasane, a representative from Dunas Safari will collect your rental vehicle to facilitate its return to Windhoek, leaving you free to enjoy the wonders of the Chobe Riverfront.

Afternoon River Cruise: Included with your stay is a boat cruise on the Chobe River. This is one of the most iconic safari experiences in Africa, offering a unique vantage point to observe large herds of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles as they gather at the water’s edge.

Accommodation: You will be staying at Sandpiper Villas Chobe. Located in Kasane, these modern, serviced villas provide the perfect base for your time in Botswana, offering easy access to Chobe National Park as well as nearby regional highlights like Livingstone and Victoria Falls.

Main Destination:
Chobe National Park (Botswana)

Wildlife Highlights in Chobe

• Elephant & Hippo: Abundant
• Giraffe, Lion, Zebra & Wildebeest: Common

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Wildlife Encounters in Chobe National Park

Today you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Africa's most prolific wildlife destinations. Your package includes an early morning game drive, followed by your choice of either an afternoon boat cruise or another game drive.

Chobe National Park Highlights:

• The Giants of Chobe: The park is world-renowned for hosting the largest concentration of elephants in Africa. Game drives provide you with a front-row seat to this incredible spectacle, allowing you to witness these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.
• Predator Potential: Keep your camera ready, as Chobe is also home to a thriving predator population, with frequent sightings of lions, leopards, and hyenas.
• Flexible Exploration: Game drives are approximately three hours long, with multiple daily departure times, allowing you to tailor your wildlife viewing to your personal preferences.
• Water-Based Safari: Whether you choose a boat cruise or a land-based game drive, both options offer distinct perspectives on the park’s abundant animal life and lush riverside ecosystems.

Main Destination:
Chobe National Park (Botswana)

Accommodation:
Sandpiper Villas Chobe

• Mid-range lodge located less than 1 hour's drive from the Chobe National Park entrance.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast and dinner included
• Lunch not included
• Drinks not included

Arrival in Victoria Falls: The Smoke That Thunders

Today, you will enjoy a private transfer from Chobe to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. After settling in, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to spend at leisure.

Exploring Victoria Falls:
Victoria Falls, known to the locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya or "The Smoke That Thunders," is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The sheer scale and power of the Zambezi River as it plunges into the deep gorge below create an awe-inspiring spectacle that is truly unforgettable. Zimbabwe's natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality make this a highlight of any African adventure.

Main Destination:
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Accommodation:
Shongwe Lookout Guest Lodge

• Mid-range lodge conveniently located in Victoria Falls.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast included
• Lunch and dinner not included
• Drinks not included

Please note that optional activities are not included in your package.

Exploring the Wonders of Victoria Falls

Today is dedicated to experiencing the majesty of Victoria Falls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, locally known as "The Smoke That Thunders," is one of the most spectacular natural wonders on Earth.

Included Activities:

• Morning Guided Visit to the Falls: Experience the incredible power of the cascades firsthand. Please note: Park entrance fees of USD 50.00 per person are not included.
• Afternoon Sunset Dinner Cruise: Unwind as you drift along the Zambezi River, enjoying the scenery and wildlife. Please note: Park entrance fees of USD 20.00 per person are not included.

Adventure & Leisure:
Beyond the falls themselves, the area is a world-class hub for adventure. If you are seeking an adrenaline rush, the region offers a variety of thrilling activities, including:

• White Water Rafting: Widely considered some of the best commercial rafting in the world.
• Bungee Jumping: For those looking for an extreme challenge.
• Fishing: Excellent spots are available for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Main Destination:
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Accommodation:
Shearwater Explorers Village

• Budget lodge located conveniently within Victoria Falls.

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast included
• Lunch and dinner not included
• Drinks not included

Departure: End of Tour

Today marks the final day of your adventure. You will be provided with a private transfer from your lodge to the Victoria Falls International Airport for your onward journey.

Thank you for choosing to explore Southern Africa with Dunas Safari. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of the landscapes, wildlife, and wonders you have experienced along the way.

Main Destination:
Victoria Falls Airport (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)

Accommodation:
None (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast included
• Lunch and dinner not included
• Drinks not included