Overview
Namibia is a vast country, even by African standards, covering an area approximately twice the size of California and four times the size of the United Kingdom, but with a population of a mere 2 million. This gives one of the lowest population densities in the world. It is also an 'ageless land’; visible through a heritage of rock art created by stone-age artists and geological attractions such as the petrified forest where fossilized tree trunks have lain for over 280 million years. When added to the space and silence, these factors all contribute to a feeling of antiquity, solitude and wilderness.
This Ultimate Namibia Safari affords you the chance to experience this magnificent and memorable country in a very personal way. You will have your own professional and experienced safari guide who will enhance your enjoyment of this unique country by making it a fascinating and stress-free journey of discovery amidst very dramatic scenery. The knowledge, experience, and character of our guides are critical to a successful safari which is why we ensure that they are both personable and very professional. Your guide will have an intimate knowledge of each area and camp/lodge that you visit, allowing them to share the local insights and highlights whilst adding continuity and depth to your safari.
Quick Summary
Day 1
Windhoek
On arrival in Windhoek you are met and taken to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)
This evening your private guide will join you for dinner and give you a full safari briefing.
Windhoek
Windhoek is Namibia’s capital, home to an international airport and a plethora of restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and accommodation options. The city is clean, safe and well-organised, with a colonial legacy that is reflected in its many German eateries and shops, and the widespread use of the German language. Windhoek has an interesting mix of historical architecture and modern buildings, many of which are worth a look, including the Alte Feste (Old Fort), the 1896 Christuskirche (Christ Church), and the more contemporary Supreme Court.
Daily Summary
Day 2
Okonjima
This morning you will be picked up by your guide and leave Windhoek in a northerly direction. You have the option to stop off in Okahandja to visit the local craft market before heading on to Okonjima in time for lunch. After a short afternoon siesta you will head out on one of the many activities on offer to explore the world renowned AfriCat Foundation project, which is particularly well known for its cheetah and leopard conservation efforts.
This afternoon you depart on a game drive in search of one of their collared but free roaming leopards with a sundowner drink to be enjoyed in the bush afterwards.
Daily Summary
Day 3
Onguma Game Reserve
Onguma Game Reserve
This morning you continue with your guide towards the Etosha National Park. Arrive at Onguma Tented Camp in time for lunch.
This afternoon you enjoy your first game drive in the park with your private guide, returning again before the sun sets to freshen up for dinner.
Situated on the eastern side of Etosha, bordering Fisher's Pan, Onguma Game Reserve is one of Namibia's best kept secrets! Here you will be afforded the opportunity of experiencing Africa in all her beauty and diversity. Onguma Game Reserve has more than 34,000 hectares of protected land and wildlife. Our nature reserve boasts over thirty different animal species consisting of plains game including kudu, giraffe, eland, oryx, hartebeest, zebra, impala and many more roam freely as well as predators such as lion, cheetah, leopard, being common residents of the area. The latest addition to the already abundant wildlife at Onguma Game Reserve is a family of black rhinos! More than 300 bird species can also be viewed at Onguma Game Reserve. During the Namibian summer months, the nature reserve becomes a bird-watcher's paradise with thousands of species migrating to the wetlands created by the seasonal rains and ephemeral river systems.
Daily Summary
Day 4
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park
A day dedicated to memorable game drives inside the Etosha National Park and on the Onguma Nature Reserve.
In the morning you continue your exploration of the Etosha National Park’s eastern side, returning to the lodge in time for lunch and a short siesta.
Set out in the afternoon with one of the dedicated lodge guides on a sundowner drive on the Onguma Nature Reserve.
The defining feature of the National Park is the huge Etosha Pan, which appears to be the remnant of a large inland lake that was fed by rivers from the north and east. Etosha is so special because of the concentration of water-holes which occur around the southern edges of the pan. As the dry season progresses, these increasingly draw the game. In fact, often the best way to watch animals in Etosha is to just sit in your vehicle by a water-hole and wait! The Park boasts some 114 mammal and over 340 bird species. Wildlife that one might see includes elephant, lion, giraffe, blue wildebeest, eland, kudu, gemsbok (oryx), zebra, rhino, cheetah, leopard, hyena, honey badger and warthog, as well as the endemic black faced impala.
Daily Summary
Day 5
Etosha National Park
Full Day in Etosha
Travel through the Etosha National Park today on a full day drive visiting the many waterholes and viewpoints along the way to reach the southern boundary of the park and exit before sunset.
Daily Summary
Day 6
Damaraland
Damaraland
Today you head towards the rocky outcrops of Damaraland, arriving in time for a late lunch at Camp Kipwe.
This afternoon you have the chance of viewing the rock engravings at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Twyfelfontein.
From the glorious rock formations of Spitzkoppe, Erongo and the Brandberg in the south to the equally glorious red-rock, wild-desert mountains around Palmwag in the north, Damaraland is one of Namibia's most dramatic collections of landscapes. Hidden in the rocky clefts is Twyfelfontein, which along with the Brandberg contains some of Southern Africa’s finest prehistoric rock art and engravings, and there's even a petrified forest nearby, as well as palm-fringed, oasis-like valleys. Damaraland is also one of Southern Africa's most underrated wildlife-watching areas. One of Namibia's last ‘unofficial’ wildlife regions, it's home to critically endangered black rhinos, desert-adapted lions and elephants, as well as the full range of Namibia specialties such as gemsbok, zebra, giraffe and spotted hyena.
Daily Summary
Day 7
Damaraland
Full Day Damaraland
Head out early this morning with your private guide, traversing dry riverbeds in search of the elusive desert adapted elephants and other fauna and flora.
This afternoon you can either relax and enjoy the camp’s facilities or opt for a scenic drive with your guide.
Daily Summary
Day 8
Swakopmund
Swakopmund
Drive to Swakopmund today, passing by the rusting shipwreck of the Zeila just south of the town of Henties Bay.
The afternoon can be spent at leisure exploring the picturesque town.
Founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South West Africa, Swakopmund is often described as being more German than Germany. Now a seaside resort, Swakopmund is the capital of the Skeleton Coast tourism area and has plenty to keep visitors happy. The quirky mix of German and Namibian influences, colonial-era buildings and the cool sea breeze make it very popular.
Daily Summary
Day 9
Swakopmund
Full Day Exploring the Swakopmund area
Head towards the harbour town of Walvis Bay for a morning boat cruise exploring the waters of the Atlantic, the oyster platforms and marveling at the seal colony at Pelican Point, enjoying champagne and snacks on board (including fresh oysters).
You return by lunch time and the afternoon can be spent at leisure before heading out for dinner with your guide.
Daily Summary
Day 10
Sossusvlei
This morning you will be taken to the Swakopmund Airport where you will depart on a scenic flight over Sandwich Harbour, abandoned mining camps, shipwrecks and the great dune sea before landing and being collected for your road transfer to Camp Sossus. NOTE - your guide will drive from Swakopmund to Sossusvlei and should arrive in the afternoon.
This afternoon may either be spent at leisure or on a scenic drive of the area with your guide.
Daily Summary
Day 11
Sossusvlei
Full day exploring Sossusvlei
Early morning excursion into Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and surrounding dune fields with a delectable picnic brunch in the dunes afterwards.
Visit to Sesriem Canyon on the way back to camp, arriving with time to freshen up for lunch.
Afternoon is available to explore the Namib Naukluft Park with your guide.
Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei is where you will find the iconic red sand dunes of the Namib. The clear blue skies contrast with the giant red sand dunes to make this one of the natural wonders of Africa and a photographers heaven. Aside from the attractions at Sossusvlei - Dune 45, Hiddenvlei, Big Daddy and Deadvlei - other attractions in the area include the Sesriem Canyon and Namib-Naukluft National Park, where the mountains of the Namib meet its plains.
Daily Summary
Day 12
Depart
After a leisurely breakfast you bid farewell to your guide as you take to the skies on your flight to the Windhoek International Airport, getting you there in time to check in for your departing flight back home.
Daily Summary
Accommodation
| Accommodation | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Galton House | Windhoek, Namibia | |
| Okonjima Bush Camp | Okonjima, Namibia | |
| Onguma Tented Camp | Etosha, Namibia | |
| Ongava Lodge | Etosha, Namibia | |
| Camp Kipwe | Twyfelfontein, Namibia | |
| The Delight Swakopmund | Swakopmund, Namibia | |
| Camp Sossus | Sossusvlei, Namibia |
Windhoek, Namibia
Galton House
A mere ten minute drive from the center of town and perched on the edge of Windhoek's northernmost affluent suburb of Eros, guests staying here will be ensured of peace and tranquillity. There is Wi-Fi throughout the property and the eight guest rooms all have wired internet connectivity and satellite television. There is a coffee/tea station available in the reception area and these can also be provided in the rooms on request.
The communal areas consist of a large lounge, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a swimming pool, an early arrival/late departure day room (including toilet, shower, changing and re-packing facility) as well as understated garden areas. There is also a delightful 'al fresco' dining area by the pool where freshly prepared and very tasty meals are served (including lunch and dinner). A number of shops, restaurants and supermarkets are within easy striking distance.
Okonjima, Namibia
Okonjima Bush Camp
Etosha, Namibia
Onguma Tented Camp
Etosha, Namibia
Ongava Lodge
Outdoor dining under the stars whilst watching wildlife drinking at the waterhole is something never to be forgotten. A buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, can be served in the restaurant under thatch, or in the split-level lounge or dining room. Both have an outstanding view of the waterhole. There is also a swimming pool and a large curio shop, stocking a good selection of African gifts and branded safari clothing.
Twyfelfontein, Namibia
Camp Kipwe
Swakopmund, Namibia
The Delight Swakopmund
Among this small town’s captivating contrasts and old traditions, Gondwana’s Delight is a fresh breeze in the desert. Conveniently located within short walking distance of the ‘Mole’, this modern, uplifting and inviting hotel is the ideal base for your coastal stay. Every effort is made to surprise and delight guests with thoughtful touches and locally inspired reasons to smile. All of the fifty four rooms have en-suite facilities, hairdryer, tea and coffee station, fridge, air conditioning/ heating and personal safe. The rooms surround a central courtyard with a pretty garden, perfect for relaxing after a busy morning exploring the coast.
Sossusvlei, Namibia
Camp Sossus
Why Maxim Safaris & Journeys
Uncommon Safaris for Discerning Adventurers
Experience Matters
Since 1993 Maxim Safaris & Journeys’ passion for exotic destinations has made us a highly sought after Boutique Tour Operator for discerning travelers. After three decades we continue to exceed our clients' expectations. Our approach over these many years is simple; offer the very best service and travel experience at the most competitive prices while balancing the importance of sustainable tourism with a high quality travel product.
Premier Guides
Maxim Safaris & Journeys' guides have a reputation for being the best in the business. Experts in their fields, friendly and interesting, a good guide will bring the most out of every excursion while creating lifelong memories.
24/7 Support
At no time during your adventure will you be alone. Our local partners are available 24/7 in the event you need any assistance while traveling. We will monitor your progress and take care of any unexpected developments so that your trip continues unhindered.
Responsible Tourism
Responsible and sustainable tourism should be more than just a phrase - it has to be an ongoing and tangible commitment to balancing tourism with the upliftment of local communities and preservation of the natural environment. Maxim Safaris & Journeys actively supports camps and lodges whose business models reflect this commitment.
About Us
Since 1993, Maxim Safaris & Journeys has been dedicated to creating unforgettable journeys to some of the world's most exotic destinations. Over three decades, we’ve earned a reputation as a trusted boutique tour operator for discerning travelers, with a level of experience and personal service that is unmatched. Proudly rooted in the 21st century yet firmly committed to old-fashioned service values, we still answer the phone when you call and respond to emails without delay. Our philosophy has always been simple: deliver exceptional service and travel experiences at competitive prices, while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable tourism and high-quality programs.
I'm Paul Webster, the owner of Maxim Safaris & Journeys. Born and raised in Zimbabwe and South Africa, I spent most of my life in Africa and developed a deep passion for its extraordinary landscapes and cultures, a passion that extends to all the destinations we offer. I personally oversee every trip we design, ensuring each journey is as unique as the traveler taking it. I look forward to helping you craft your own “Uncommon Safari.”
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend getting travel insurance upon booking your trip, as unforeseen events can affect even the best-laid travel plans. Travel insurance plans can cover trip cancellation, missed connections and itinerary changes, baggage issues, emergency medical and other issues, and more.
Passport Details
For many of our itineraries (eg. Inca Trail, etc) we require your passport information to be able to complete the booking process. Please check with your travel specialist after purchasing your trip. Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six month after arrival date.
Medical
Please consult a Travel Doctor or Travel Clinic prior to departure to make sure you receive professional advice about required and recommended shots.