Day 1 – Arrival in Namibia

Arrival at the Windhoek International Airport. Meet and greet by your personal guide and transfer to Windhoek.

Check-in at your Backpackers where you will spend two nights.

In the afternon you will be picked up at your backpackers for a very interesting and informative city and township tour.

This Windhoek City Tour combines a detailed sight-seeing tour of Windhoek’s city centre and a visit to Katutura township. Visit historical buildings, monuments and cultural museums within Windhoek City Centre. We visit Christus Church, Tintenpalast (House of Parliament), Alte Fest (Old Fort) and Heinitzburg Castle. Have a panorama view of Windhoek from lover’s hill and visit the Namibian Craft Centre. From the city centre, we head to the old location cemetery in Hochland Park where we learn more about Katutura. Then we visit the Single Quarters Meat Market, Penduka Womens Projects, Mama Melba’s goat head restaurant and see the shack houses of Hakahana.

Fullboard basis, Paradisegarden Backpackers or similar

Paradisegarden offers accommodation in spacious 4 & 6 bed dormitories and in single or double rooms. For those who prefer to sleep in their own tents, there is also place available.

 

Day 2 – Windhoek

After a lovely breakfast we will be picked at our backpackers by our guide to visit universities in Windhoek and learn few backgrounds regarding education system in this country and also used this opportunity to exhange cultures.

The remainder of the afternoon can be spend at own leisure or you can explore this cosmopolitan city on your own.

Fullboard basis, Paradisegarden Backpackers or similar

 

Day 3 – Windhoek – Bitterwasser Lodge

Today we drive via Rehoboth and Kalkrand to our superb lodge. En-route we drive through beautiful landscape of the Kalahari Desert.

The Kalahari Desert forms a great part of the eastern side of Namibia. Because of its sandy ground it doesn’t allow enough water absorption into the soil. Due to the extremely high evaporation in this area, it is characterised as a Desert. In reality it is a lively wilderness and on the sparce grass plains you can see huge herds of antelopes and other animals grazing.

Arrival at the Lodge in the afternoon, where we will go on the nature drive on the red dunes of the kalahari.

Full board basis, Bitterwasser Lodge or similar

 

Day 4 – Kalahari – Keetmanshoop

After breakfast at the lodge our journey takes us via Mariental and Keetmanshoop to our lodge.

En route we will stop at the Quivertree forest and giants playground before proceeding to our lodge.

About 14km north-west of Keetmanshoop on the farm Gariganus is the Quiver Tree Forest, a dense stand of quiver trees, some of which reach a height of 7m. The quiver tree’s name is derived from the Bushman practice of hollowing out the pithy insides of the branches and using the tough, outer casings of bark as quivers in which to keep their arrows.

Afternoon can be used to relax at the swimming pool.

Full board basis, Martiz Country Hotel or similar

 

Day 5 – Fish River Canyon

Today after a leisurely breakfast at the lodge we visit this massive landscape.

The fish river canyon is the second largest canyon in the world. Set in a harsh, stony plain scantily covered with drought resistant succulents and the distinctive quiver tree or kokerboom, the canyon represents a spectacular natural phenomenon which took hundreds of millions of years to evolve into its current shape. While the full length of the canyon is 161 km, the most spectacular section is the 56 km long stretch which lies between the northernmost and southernmost viewpoints. Baboons, rock dassie’s, ground squirrel’s and klipspringer are commonly sighted in the canyon.

We will continue with our journey via Seeheim to reach our lovely hotel at Aus.

Maybe with bit of luck we might spot the desert horses in the vicinity.

An intriguing feature of the southern Namib are the legendary desert horses which can be seen when travelling between Lüderitz and Aus. There are a number of theories regarding their origin, one of these and the most likely theory, is that they are descendants of horses left behind when the German ‘Schutztruppe’ abandoned Aus during the South West African Campaign in 1915. Here you will also find the remains of houses built during their imprisonment during World War I. About 1500 German Soldiers from the ‘Schutztruppe’ were kept here as prisoners.

Full board basis, Bahnhof Hotel or similar

 

Day 6 – Tour to Ghost town

Depart via Helmerinhausen and Maltahöhe to Hammerstein Lodge.

En route we will stop at Duwisib Castle before proceeding to our lodge.

Situated south-west of Maltahöhe amongst rugged hills is the Duwisib Castle, built by the legendary Baron Hans-Heinrich von Wolff for his American bride, Jayta. The castle, constructed by Italian stonemasons with hewn, quarried stone, was completed in 1909. Ships from Germany brought not only building materials and steel girdes, but also antique furniture and fittings. A Swedish carpenter was imported and an army of labourers hired locally. It is said that a certain Adrian Esterhuizen toiled for two years through the desert from the harbour town of Lüderitz with some twenty ox-wagons to deliver the freight to the castle.

Arrival and check-in at the lodge.

Full board basis, Hammerstein Lodge or similar

 

Day 7 – Sesriem & Sossusvlei

Early morning departure to Sossusvlei. You have the opportunity to climb one of the highest sand dunes in the world.

This is a dune wonderland, with towering dunes up to 300m high surrounding a huge, dried-up pan. Dunes extend as far as the eye can see and their rich tints vary from pale apricot to vivid reds and oranges. During a good rainy season the Tsauchab River flows into the pan which creates a heaven for water birds. Even during the dry season, oryx, springbok and ostriches can be seen feeding off the sparse vegetation along the water course.

At the entrance to Sossusvlei is Sesriem Canyon, where centuries of erosion have incised a narrow gorge about 1km in length. At the foot of the gorge, which plunges down for 30m to 40m, are deep pools of water which become replenished after good rains. Sesriem derives its name from the time when early pioneers tied six lenghts of rawhide thongs together to draw water from these pools.

After these excursions, we will continue via Solitaire through Namib Desert and Walvis Bay to Swakopmund.

En route we will stop at the magnificient Welwitschia Mirabillis and Moon landscape.

The Welwitschia mirabilis, a botanical curiosity endemic to the Namib Desert and certainly one of the most intriguing and bizarre plants on earth. Sprawling untidily on the desert plains, the welwitschia is believed to have a lifespan of up to 2000 years. The plant produces only two leaves throughout its lifetime. The desert winds tear at the fibrous, evergreen blades, shredding them into strips, which curl into snake-like thongs, leaving the tips withered and dry. A large concentration of these plants is found along the Welwitschia Trail.

Full board basis, Villa Wiese Backpackers or similar

 

Day 8 – Swakopmund

After a hearty breakfast departure to Walvis bay to jetty for our adventurous boatcruise.

A 3-hour long boat cruise in the lagoon of Walvis Bay will put you into another world. Some pelicans and flamingos might be spotted – and regularly dolphins and seals swim alongside the boat, with the possibility of one or two seals jumping into the boat to be fed. 12h00 – Lunch with snacks, oysters and champagne will be served in the lagoon.

In the afternoon we will have a short sightseeing tour through Swakopmund.

Swakopmund is much loved by Namibians as a welcome respite from the inland heat. It is also popular amongst visitors because of its old-world charm and relaxed atmosphere. Founded in 1892 during the period of German colonial rule, it served as the territory’s main harbour for many years. The distinct German colonial character has been well preserved and today many of the old buildings serve a useful purpose.The Woermann House (1905) now houses an art gallery. The Woermann Tower was used in earlier times to see if ships came into the harbour. Other old interesting buildings are: “Die Alte Kaserne”, “Hohenzollern Haus”, and the Railway Station Building.

For the rest of this day you can set your own pace. Book one of the many activities on offer (Sand boarding, Quad biking, or scenic flights) or just relax in this small and beautiful coastal town. There are many cafes where you can eat traditional german cakes and enjoy a good cup of coffee or tea.

Full board basis, Villa Wiese Backpackers or similar

 

Day 9 – Swakopmund – Damaraland

A very early breakfast and then we will depart via Henties Bay and Uis to Khorixas.

Uis is a small town located in the Damarland desert region. It lays beneath the highest mountain in Namibia the Brandberg Mountain which is known for the world famous White Lady Painting. The name Uis means, spring water and was named this because of the town being built near a spring. Once a small mining town, it is now a stopover for when travelling to the Brandberg and Twyfelfontein or en route between the Namib Coast or the Erongo Region and Damaraland. One thing that Uis has become well known for are its excellent examples of rocks and crystals.

131km west of Outjo lies the unofficial capital of the Damaraland, Khorixas. Formally known as Welwitchia, Khorixas is said to be a Khoekhoen name for a tree with edible berries resembling currents. The Khorixas Community Craft Market in the center of town offers the visitors a chance to buy carvings made from corkwood trees, carved makalani nuts, seed necklaces and Himba dolls made from leather.

En route we will visit Organ pipes and burnt Mountain as well as the famous twyfelfontein rockengravings before we drive to our hotel.

Twyfelfontein, meaning doubtful fountain, which lies to the west of Khorixas, resembles a large, open-air art gallery. This treasure house of rock engravings left by stone-age artists is regarded as one of the richest collections in Africa.

Full board basis, iGowati Country Hotel or similar.

 

Day 10 – Damaraland – Etosha

Departure to direction of Etosha National park via Kamanjab and Outjo.

On our way we will visit the himba village in Kamanjab.

The Himba are semi-nomadic people and are one of the most photographed ethnic groups of Namibia due to their unique appearance, The Himba women have a particularly distinctive appearance and can take several hours for beauty care every morning rubbing their body with a cream consisting of butterfat and ochre powder which gives the body a reddish tinge. There are about 20, 000 to 50,000 Himba people living in northern Namibia, in the Kunene region. They speak the same language as the Herero and predominantly breed cattle and goats. Clothes, hairstyle and jewellery are all of particular significance to the Himba.

Located in a cluster of low hills is the town of Outjo, the southern gateway to the Etosha National Park. The town developed around a spring where a trader, Tom Lambert, settled in 1880. Depicted in the Outjo Museum is the history of the town and its surroundings, with the focus on gemstones and wildlife.

We will be partaking on our first game viewing in the Etosha Nationalpark and leave the park at late afternoon and check-in at our resort situated outside the park.

Full board basis, Etosha Safari Camp or similar

 

Day 11 – Etosha National Park

We dedicate this day for a full day game drive in Etosha National Park. After Game viewing we return to our lodge situated outside the park.

What nicer place to come home to after an eventful day in Etosha. Relax and dine in the thatched main building with its open sides, allowing you to be close to nature and experience the ever present African sights, smells and sounds.

Full board basis, Etosha Safari Camp or similar

 

 Day 12 & 13 – Kaokoland – Ovamboland

Depart via Ruacana and Outapi to Oshakati.

Ruacana village lies 5 km away from the main route and is surrounded by a circular street. One will notice that this area has only been developed due to the power station. A lot of the worker’s houses are only seen by the remaining foundations. There are still about 300 people working at the power station. They and their families keep the village alive. Here are several stay over possibilities and a petrolstation.

Oshakati is the Owambo capital and is a small town in Oshana Region, Namibia. The town is well developed with primary and secondary schools as well as three main shopping centres and the Oshakait Independence Stadium. The city was used as a base of operations by the South African Defence Force (SADF) during the South African Border War and Namibian War of Independence. It is worth spending some time looking around the market on the main street. The landscape in the Ovambland is flat and monotonous Mopane, Marula and Wild Fig trees turn up occasionally between the fields, one can also find Makalani palm trees here (symbol of the Ovambo area).

Arrival in Ovamboland and our guide will take us through the traditional craft markets including the touring through shebeens of this town before we can check-in at our hotel.

The Ovamboland known as the 4-O-Region (Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto and Ohangwena) is the homeland of the Wambos (Ovambos), which constitute more than 50% of the Namibian population living on ony 6% of the Namibian territory. The country is almost flat and is full of Makalani palm and fig trees. After heavy rains the region is filled with many little lakes and ponds. Since independence, the government has endeavored to settle industry in the north, create jobs and improve the poor infrastructure. Pre independence, tourists totally ignored the area but now tourism is beginning to emerge.

Dinner, bed and breakfast, Oshakati Country Hotel or similar

 

Day 14 – Departure

Breakfast and we drive back to Windhoek via Okahandja. We will have our last time to shop for souvenirs in Okahandja at woodcarvers market.

Directly north of Windhoek lies Okahandja, a town of great significance to the Herero because it was the seat of Chief Samuel Maharero. Every year in August thousands of Hereros gather here for a pilgrimage to pay homage at the graves of their great chiefs. Okahandja is an important centre for woodcarvers from the north. They practise their ancient skills at the Mbanguru Woodcarvers Market.

Transfer to the Windhoek International Airport and flight back home.

Tourists should book accommodation well in advance, especially for school holidays, when demand peaks. Please note, that not all accommodation establishments accept children under the age of 12 years or 16 years. Please check if you intend taking children.

Select one, preferred type of accommodation or we can design tailor-made, mixed-accommodation tour:

• two/three-star lodges
• luxury lodges and hotels
• camping/tented

Double rooms with an option of a single supplement. Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. Camping tour: tented accommodation in 2-persons tents.

Included in the tour’s price:	Not included in the tour’s price:
Vehicle Fuel Qualified professional Driverguide = 1 Person Accommodation Accommodation & Meals for the Guide Meals (as per itinerary) Park entrance fees as per itinerary Activities as indicated in the itinerary Water on board Porterage Passenger Liability’ 15% VAT 2% Tourism Levy	Overland Safari Truck Fuel Qualified professional Driverguide = 1 Person Accommodation Accommodation & Meals for the Guide Meals (as per itinerary) Park entrance fees as per itinerary Activities as indicated in the itinerary Water on board Porterage Passenger Liability’ 15% VAT 2% Tourism Levy

Climate

Winter (May to September) Temperatures in the interior range from 18˚C to 25˚C during the day. Below freezing temperatures and ground frosts are common at night.

Summer (October to April) Average interior temperatures range from 20˚C to 34˚C during the day .Temperatures above 40˚C is often recorded in the extreme north and south of the country.

The coast influenced by the cold Benguela current, boasts a relatively stable range of 15˚C to 25˚C. Heavy fog is fairly common at night.

Humidity is generally very low in most parts of Namibia, but it can reach as high as 80% in the extreme north during summer.

The rainy season is from October to April. Average annual rainfall varies from less than 50mm along the coast to 350 mm in the central interior and 700 mm in the Caprivi. The sporadic rains do not affect road travel significantly, however, tourists should exercise caution when crossing or camping in riverbeds during the rainy season, as flash floods are common.

Visitors should pack both warm and cold weather clothing for any visit to Namibia. Windhoek boasts a number of excellent safari outfitters and tourists are advised to shop for clothing upon arrival. Hats, sunglasses, lip balm, moisturizer and sunblock are essential when visiting Namibia.

 

Drinking Water

Tap water is safe and palatable in Namibia, unless specifically stated at particular location. Tourists travelling by road are advised to carry sufficient water at all times. Mineral water and ice are readily available at most service stations and shops.

 

Credit cards

We accept major credit cards such as Credit/Debit Card: American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services, which may be available. Please note, service stations do not accept credit for petrol. Plan accordingly.

 

Currency

The Namibia Dollar (N$) and the South African Rand are the only legal tender in Namibia. The two currencies are on par. Foreign currency, travellers and personal cheques can be converted to the Namibian Dollar at any bank or Bureau de Change.

 

Duty Free Import

Visitors may import duty free 400 Cigarettes or 50 Cigars or 250g Pipe Tobacco, 2 litres Wine, 1 litre Spirit or other alcoholic beverages, 50 ml Perfume, 250 ml Toiletry Water.

 

Electrical Appliances

All run on 220/240 volts. Outlets are of the round 3 pin, 15 amp type.

 

Firearms

Handguns are not permitted in Namibia. Only properly licensed hunting rifles with valid permits for Namibia are permitted. Licenses and permits should be applied for well in advance, as attempting to do so at the border is a lengthy process. Hunting rifles are not permitted in Botswana, and have to be carried sealed if in transit to Namibia. All arms and ammunition should be declared even if in possession of a valid South African permit.

 

Health

Medical services in Namibia are of a very high standard. However, the availability of most services is restricted to the main towns. Emergencies and accidents occurring in remote areas do attract a high cost when transport to the main towns is required. Host establishments should be able to organize these services when requested.

The north of Namibia, including Etosha National Park, is a malaria-endemic area. Travellers are advised to have the necessary medication/prophylaxis and also carry insect repellents and sprays. Please consult a local doctor or pharmacist on the correct prophylactics for the specific area of entry. Blood in Namibia is donated by selected, unpaid volunteer. The Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia screens all blood products for transmissible diseases including hepatitis and AIDS. An insurance service for tourists is available from rescue companies providing one to three months coverage for emergency transport.

 

Language

The official language is English. All documents, notices and signs are in this language. Afrikaans and German are both widely used.

 

Personal Safety

Tourists in any country are a preferred target. Be on the alert for handbag snatchers and pickpockets. Exercise caution by keeping your vehicle locked, never leaving valuable/bags visible in the vehicle, using registered “car guards” when parking in towns. Leave cameras, electronic equipment, tickets passports and excess cash in the safe at your hotel when out sightseeing.

It is fairly safe, especially in a group, to walk in the city centre at night. Avoid unlit areas. Ensure that valuables and personal effects are adequately insured.

 

Public Transport

For transfers between Hosea Kutako (Windhoek) International Airport and the city, you can book with a shuttle operator; alternatively use one of the airport registered taxis. A number of companies operate bus services between main towns in Namibia and destinations in South Africa and Victoria Falls. They include Intercape Mainliner, Ekonolux, Town Hoppers and Baileys Transport.

Travel by train is possible up to Walvisbay in the west. Ondangwa in the north, Karasburg in the south and Gobabis in the east.

 

Time

Standard from the first Sunday in September to the first Sunday in April, Namibia reverts to GMT/UTC +2. The Caprivi Region stays on the same time as Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Namibian border posts with Botswana and South Africa adjust their operating hours to their neighbours’ time i.e. GMT/UTC +2. Daylight Saving: GMT/UTC +1 during winter starts from the first Sunday in April, and ends on the first Sunday in September.

 

VAT

All goods and services are priced to include VAT. Visitors may claim back VAT for goods purchased in Namibia at the Customs and Excise offices. Department of inland Revenue, in Windhoek. Further details can be obtained from the Ministry of Finance Information Centre by calling (02641) 2092642 or (026461) 2092644.

 

VISA Requirements

All visitors require a passport for entry into Namibia, which must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay in the county, and have sufficient pages for entry and exit stamps. All visitors must also have a valid return ticket.

Validity:
Visas are valid up to three months from the date of issue for stays of up to three months from date of entry. Extensions for a further three months are available from the Ministry of Home Affairs in Windhoek.

Applications
Consulate (or Consular section at High Commission); see Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Application Requirements:
(a) Valid passport
(b) Completed application form
(c) Two passport-size photos
(d) Return or onward ticket or proof of accommodation
(e) Fee
Private: (a)-(e) and, (f) Letter of invitation from Namibian resident.
Business: (a)-(e) and, (f) Company letter (g) Letter from sponsoring company in Namibia

Temporary Residence Permit:
Apply to the High Commission or Embassy; see Namibian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

* Please note that a minimum of three working days are required for processing applications

Click here to book now

or send an email to: info@hoseakutakotours.com

Day 1 – Arrival in Namibia

Arrival at the Windhoek International Airport. Meet and greet by your personal guide and transfer to Windhoek.

Check-in at your Backpackers where you will spend two nights.

In the afternon you will be picked up at your backpackers for a very interesting and informative city and township tour.

This Windhoek City Tour combines a detailed sight-seeing tour of Windhoek’s city centre and a visit to Katutura township. Visit historical buildings, monuments and cultural museums within Windhoek City Centre. We visit Christus Church, Tintenpalast (House of Parliament), Alte Fest (Old Fort) and Heinitzburg Castle. Have a panorama view of Windhoek from lover’s hill and visit the Namibian Craft Centre. From the city centre, we head to the old location cemetery in Hochland Park where we learn more about Katutura. Then we visit the Single Quarters Meat Market, Penduka Womens Projects, Mama Melba’s goat head restaurant and see the shack houses of Hakahana.

Fullboard basis, Paradisegarden Backpackers or similar

Paradisegarden offers accommodation in spacious 4 & 6 bed dormitories and in single or double rooms. For those who prefer to sleep in their own tents, there is also place available.

 

Day 2 – Windhoek

After a lovely breakfast we will be picked at our backpackers by our guide to visit universities in Windhoek and learn few backgrounds regarding education system in this country and also used this opportunity to exhange cultures.

The remainder of the afternoon can be spend at own leisure or you can explore this cosmopolitan city on your own.

Fullboard basis, Paradisegarden Backpackers or similar

 

Day 3 – Windhoek – Bitterwasser Lodge

Today we drive via Rehoboth and Kalkrand to our superb lodge. En-route we drive through beautiful landscape of the Kalahari Desert.

The Kalahari Desert forms a great part of the eastern side of Namibia. Because of its sandy ground it doesn’t allow enough water absorption into the soil. Due to the extremely high evaporation in this area, it is characterised as a Desert. In reality it is a lively wilderness and on the sparce grass plains you can see huge herds of antelopes and other animals grazing.

Arrival at the Lodge in the afternoon, where we will go on the nature drive on the red dunes of the kalahari.

Full board basis, Bitterwasser Lodge or similar

 

Day 4 – Kalahari – Keetmanshoop

After breakfast at the lodge our journey takes us via Mariental and Keetmanshoop to our lodge.

En route we will stop at the Quivertree forest and giants playground before proceeding to our lodge.

About 14km north-west of Keetmanshoop on the farm Gariganus is the Quiver Tree Forest, a dense stand of quiver trees, some of which reach a height of 7m. The quiver tree’s name is derived from the Bushman practice of hollowing out the pithy insides of the branches and using the tough, outer casings of bark as quivers in which to keep their arrows.

Afternoon can be used to relax at the swimming pool.

Full board basis, Martiz Country Hotel or similar

 

Day 5 – Fish River Canyon

Today after a leisurely breakfast at the lodge we visit this massive landscape.

The fish river canyon is the second largest canyon in the world. Set in a harsh, stony plain scantily covered with drought resistant succulents and the distinctive quiver tree or kokerboom, the canyon represents a spectacular natural phenomenon which took hundreds of millions of years to evolve into its current shape. While the full length of the canyon is 161 km, the most spectacular section is the 56 km long stretch which lies between the northernmost and southernmost viewpoints. Baboons, rock dassie’s, ground squirrel’s and klipspringer are commonly sighted in the canyon.

We will continue with our journey via Seeheim to reach our lovely hotel at Aus.

Maybe with bit of luck we might spot the desert horses in the vicinity.

An intriguing feature of the southern Namib are the legendary desert horses which can be seen when travelling between Lüderitz and Aus. There are a number of theories regarding their origin, one of these and the most likely theory, is that they are descendants of horses left behind when the German ‘Schutztruppe’ abandoned Aus during the South West African Campaign in 1915. Here you will also find the remains of houses built during their imprisonment during World War I. About 1500 German Soldiers from the ‘Schutztruppe’ were kept here as prisoners.

Full board basis, Bahnhof Hotel or similar

 

Day 6 – Tour to Ghost town

Depart via Helmerinhausen and Maltahöhe to Hammerstein Lodge.

En route we will stop at Duwisib Castle before proceeding to our lodge.

Situated south-west of Maltahöhe amongst rugged hills is the Duwisib Castle, built by the legendary Baron Hans-Heinrich von Wolff for his American bride, Jayta. The castle, constructed by Italian stonemasons with hewn, quarried stone, was completed in 1909. Ships from Germany brought not only building materials and steel girdes, but also antique furniture and fittings. A Swedish carpenter was imported and an army of labourers hired locally. It is said that a certain Adrian Esterhuizen toiled for two years through the desert from the harbour town of Lüderitz with some twenty ox-wagons to deliver the freight to the castle.

Arrival and check-in at the lodge.

Full board basis, Hammerstein Lodge or similar

 

Day 7 – Sesriem & Sossusvlei

Early morning departure to Sossusvlei. You have the opportunity to climb one of the highest sand dunes in the world.

This is a dune wonderland, with towering dunes up to 300m high surrounding a huge, dried-up pan. Dunes extend as far as the eye can see and their rich tints vary from pale apricot to vivid reds and oranges. During a good rainy season the Tsauchab River flows into the pan which creates a heaven for water birds. Even during the dry season, oryx, springbok and ostriches can be seen feeding off the sparse vegetation along the water course.

At the entrance to Sossusvlei is Sesriem Canyon, where centuries of erosion have incised a narrow gorge about 1km in length. At the foot of the gorge, which plunges down for 30m to 40m, are deep pools of water which become replenished after good rains. Sesriem derives its name from the time when early pioneers tied six lenghts of rawhide thongs together to draw water from these pools.

After these excursions, we will continue via Solitaire through Namib Desert and Walvis Bay to Swakopmund.

En route we will stop at the magnificient Welwitschia Mirabillis and Moon landscape.

The Welwitschia mirabilis, a botanical curiosity endemic to the Namib Desert and certainly one of the most intriguing and bizarre plants on earth. Sprawling untidily on the desert plains, the welwitschia is believed to have a lifespan of up to 2000 years. The plant produces only two leaves throughout its lifetime. The desert winds tear at the fibrous, evergreen blades, shredding them into strips, which curl into snake-like thongs, leaving the tips withered and dry. A large concentration of these plants is found along the Welwitschia Trail.

Full board basis, Villa Wiese Backpackers or similar

 

Day 8 – Swakopmund

After a hearty breakfast departure to Walvis bay to jetty for our adventurous boatcruise.

A 3-hour long boat cruise in the lagoon of Walvis Bay will put you into another world. Some pelicans and flamingos might be spotted – and regularly dolphins and seals swim alongside the boat, with the possibility of one or two seals jumping into the boat to be fed. 12h00 – Lunch with snacks, oysters and champagne will be served in the lagoon.

In the afternoon we will have a short sightseeing tour through Swakopmund.

Swakopmund is much loved by Namibians as a welcome respite from the inland heat. It is also popular amongst visitors because of its old-world charm and relaxed atmosphere. Founded in 1892 during the period of German colonial rule, it served as the territory’s main harbour for many years. The distinct German colonial character has been well preserved and today many of the old buildings serve a useful purpose.The Woermann House (1905) now houses an art gallery. The Woermann Tower was used in earlier times to see if ships came into the harbour. Other old interesting buildings are: “Die Alte Kaserne”, “Hohenzollern Haus”, and the Railway Station Building.

For the rest of this day you can set your own pace. Book one of the many activities on offer (Sand boarding, Quad biking, or scenic flights) or just relax in this small and beautiful coastal town. There are many cafes where you can eat traditional german cakes and enjoy a good cup of coffee or tea.

Full board basis, Villa Wiese Backpackers or similar

 

Day 9 – Swakopmund – Damaraland

A very early breakfast and then we will depart via Henties Bay and Uis to Khorixas.

Uis is a small town located in the Damarland desert region. It lays beneath the highest mountain in Namibia the Brandberg Mountain which is known for the world famous White Lady Painting. The name Uis means, spring water and was named this because of the town being built near a spring. Once a small mining town, it is now a stopover for when travelling to the Brandberg and Twyfelfontein or en route between the Namib Coast or the Erongo Region and Damaraland. One thing that Uis has become well known for are its excellent examples of rocks and crystals.

131km west of Outjo lies the unofficial capital of the Damaraland, Khorixas. Formally known as Welwitchia, Khorixas is said to be a Khoekhoen name for a tree with edible berries resembling currents. The Khorixas Community Craft Market in the center of town offers the visitors a chance to buy carvings made from corkwood trees, carved makalani nuts, seed necklaces and Himba dolls made from leather.

En route we will visit Organ pipes and burnt Mountain as well as the famous twyfelfontein rockengravings before we drive to our hotel.

Twyfelfontein, meaning doubtful fountain, which lies to the west of Khorixas, resembles a large, open-air art gallery. This treasure house of rock engravings left by stone-age artists is regarded as one of the richest collections in Africa.

Full board basis, iGowati Country Hotel or similar.

 

Day 10 – Damaraland – Etosha

Departure to direction of Etosha National park via Kamanjab and Outjo.

On our way we will visit the himba village in Kamanjab.

The Himba are semi-nomadic people and are one of the most photographed ethnic groups of Namibia due to their unique appearance, The Himba women have a particularly distinctive appearance and can take several hours for beauty care every morning rubbing their body with a cream consisting of butterfat and ochre powder which gives the body a reddish tinge. There are about 20, 000 to 50,000 Himba people living in northern Namibia, in the Kunene region. They speak the same language as the Herero and predominantly breed cattle and goats. Clothes, hairstyle and jewellery are all of particular significance to the Himba.

Located in a cluster of low hills is the town of Outjo, the southern gateway to the Etosha National Park. The town developed around a spring where a trader, Tom Lambert, settled in 1880. Depicted in the Outjo Museum is the history of the town and its surroundings, with the focus on gemstones and wildlife.

We will be partaking on our first game viewing in the Etosha Nationalpark and leave the park at late afternoon and check-in at our resort situated outside the park.

Full board basis, Etosha Safari Camp or similar

 

Day 11 – Etosha National Park

We dedicate this day for a full day game drive in Etosha National Park. After Game viewing we return to our lodge situated outside the park.

What nicer place to come home to after an eventful day in Etosha. Relax and dine in the thatched main building with its open sides, allowing you to be close to nature and experience the ever present African sights, smells and sounds.

Full board basis, Etosha Safari Camp or similar

 

 Day 12 & 13 – Kaokoland – Ovamboland

Depart via Ruacana and Outapi to Oshakati.

Ruacana village lies 5 km away from the main route and is surrounded by a circular street. One will notice that this area has only been developed due to the power station. A lot of the worker’s houses are only seen by the remaining foundations. There are still about 300 people working at the power station. They and their families keep the village alive. Here are several stay over possibilities and a petrolstation.

Oshakati is the Owambo capital and is a small town in Oshana Region, Namibia. The town is well developed with primary and secondary schools as well as three main shopping centres and the Oshakait Independence Stadium. The city was used as a base of operations by the South African Defence Force (SADF) during the South African Border War and Namibian War of Independence. It is worth spending some time looking around the market on the main street. The landscape in the Ovambland is flat and monotonous Mopane, Marula and Wild Fig trees turn up occasionally between the fields, one can also find Makalani palm trees here (symbol of the Ovambo area).

Arrival in Ovamboland and our guide will take us through the traditional craft markets including the touring through shebeens of this town before we can check-in at our hotel.

The Ovamboland known as the 4-O-Region (Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto and Ohangwena) is the homeland of the Wambos (Ovambos), which constitute more than 50% of the Namibian population living on ony 6% of the Namibian territory. The country is almost flat and is full of Makalani palm and fig trees. After heavy rains the region is filled with many little lakes and ponds. Since independence, the government has endeavored to settle industry in the north, create jobs and improve the poor infrastructure. Pre independence, tourists totally ignored the area but now tourism is beginning to emerge.

Dinner, bed and breakfast, Oshakati Country Hotel or similar

 

Day 14 – Departure

Breakfast and we drive back to Windhoek via Okahandja. We will have our last time to shop for souvenirs in Okahandja at woodcarvers market.

Directly north of Windhoek lies Okahandja, a town of great significance to the Herero because it was the seat of Chief Samuel Maharero. Every year in August thousands of Hereros gather here for a pilgrimage to pay homage at the graves of their great chiefs. Okahandja is an important centre for woodcarvers from the north. They practise their ancient skills at the Mbanguru Woodcarvers Market.

Transfer to the Windhoek International Airport and flight back home.

Tourists should book accommodation well in advance, especially for school holidays, when demand peaks. Please note, that not all accommodation establishments accept children under the age of 12 years or 16 years. Please check if you intend taking children.

Select one, preferred type of accommodation or we can design tailor-made, mixed-accommodation tour:

• two/three-star lodges
• luxury lodges and hotels
• camping/tented

Double rooms with an option of a single supplement. Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. Camping tour: tented accommodation in 2-persons tents.

Included in the tour’s price:

Vehicle Fuel Qualified professional Driverguide = 1 Person Accommodation Accommodation & Meals for the Guide Meals (as per itinerary) Park entrance fees as per itinerary Activities as indicated in the itinerary Water on board Porterage Passenger Liability’ 15% VAT 2% Tourism Levy

Not included in the tour’s price:

Overland Safari Truck Fuel Qualified professional Driverguide = 1 Person Accommodation Accommodation & Meals for the Guide Meals (as per itinerary) Park entrance fees as per itinerary Activities as indicated in the itinerary Water on board Porterage Passenger Liability’ 15% VAT 2% Tourism Levy

Climate

Winter (May to September) Temperatures in the interior range from 18˚C to 25˚C during the day. Below freezing temperatures and ground frosts are common at night.

Summer (October to April) Average interior temperatures range from 20˚C to 34˚C during the day .Temperatures above 40˚C is often recorded in the extreme north and south of the country.

The coast influenced by the cold Benguela current, boasts a relatively stable range of 15˚C to 25˚C. Heavy fog is fairly common at night.

Humidity is generally very low in most parts of Namibia, but it can reach as high as 80% in the extreme north during summer.

The rainy season is from October to April. Average annual rainfall varies from less than 50mm along the coast to 350 mm in the central interior and 700 mm in the Caprivi. The sporadic rains do not affect road travel significantly, however, tourists should exercise caution when crossing or camping in riverbeds during the rainy season, as flash floods are common.

Visitors should pack both warm and cold weather clothing for any visit to Namibia. Windhoek boasts a number of excellent safari outfitters and tourists are advised to shop for clothing upon arrival. Hats, sunglasses, lip balm, moisturizer and sunblock are essential when visiting Namibia.

 

Drinking Water

Tap water is safe and palatable in Namibia, unless specifically stated at particular location. Tourists travelling by road are advised to carry sufficient water at all times. Mineral water and ice are readily available at most service stations and shops.

 

Credit cards

We accept major credit cards such as Credit/Debit Card: American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services, which may be available. Please note, service stations do not accept credit for petrol. Plan accordingly.

 

Currency

The Namibia Dollar (N$) and the South African Rand are the only legal tender in Namibia. The two currencies are on par. Foreign currency, travellers and personal cheques can be converted to the Namibian Dollar at any bank or Bureau de Change.

 

Duty Free Import

Visitors may import duty free 400 Cigarettes or 50 Cigars or 250g Pipe Tobacco, 2 litres Wine, 1 litre Spirit or other alcoholic beverages, 50 ml Perfume, 250 ml Toiletry Water.

 

Electrical Appliances

All run on 220/240 volts. Outlets are of the round 3 pin, 15 amp type.

 

Firearms

Handguns are not permitted in Namibia. Only properly licensed hunting rifles with valid permits for Namibia are permitted. Licenses and permits should be applied for well in advance, as attempting to do so at the border is a lengthy process. Hunting rifles are not permitted in Botswana, and have to be carried sealed if in transit to Namibia. All arms and ammunition should be declared even if in possession of a valid South African permit.

 

Health

Medical services in Namibia are of a very high standard. However, the availability of most services is restricted to the main towns. Emergencies and accidents occurring in remote areas do attract a high cost when transport to the main towns is required. Host establishments should be able to organize these services when requested.

The north of Namibia, including Etosha National Park, is a malaria-endemic area. Travellers are advised to have the necessary medication/prophylaxis and also carry insect repellents and sprays. Please consult a local doctor or pharmacist on the correct prophylactics for the specific area of entry. Blood in Namibia is donated by selected, unpaid volunteer. The Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia screens all blood products for transmissible diseases including hepatitis and AIDS. An insurance service for tourists is available from rescue companies providing one to three months coverage for emergency transport.

 

Language

The official language is English. All documents, notices and signs are in this language. Afrikaans and German are both widely used.

 

Personal Safety

Tourists in any country are a preferred target. Be on the alert for handbag snatchers and pickpockets. Exercise caution by keeping your vehicle locked, never leaving valuable/bags visible in the vehicle, using registered “car guards” when parking in towns. Leave cameras, electronic equipment, tickets passports and excess cash in the safe at your hotel when out sightseeing.

It is fairly safe, especially in a group, to walk in the city centre at night. Avoid unlit areas. Ensure that valuables and personal effects are adequately insured.

 

Public Transport

For transfers between Hosea Kutako (Windhoek) International Airport and the city, you can book with a shuttle operator; alternatively use one of the airport registered taxis. A number of companies operate bus services between main towns in Namibia and destinations in South Africa and Victoria Falls. They include Intercape Mainliner, Ekonolux, Town Hoppers and Baileys Transport.

Travel by train is possible up to Walvisbay in the west. Ondangwa in the north, Karasburg in the south and Gobabis in the east.

 

Time

Standard from the first Sunday in September to the first Sunday in April, Namibia reverts to GMT/UTC +2. The Caprivi Region stays on the same time as Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Namibian border posts with Botswana and South Africa adjust their operating hours to their neighbours’ time i.e. GMT/UTC +2. Daylight Saving: GMT/UTC +1 during winter starts from the first Sunday in April, and ends on the first Sunday in September.

 

VAT

All goods and services are priced to include VAT. Visitors may claim back VAT for goods purchased in Namibia at the Customs and Excise offices. Department of inland Revenue, in Windhoek. Further details can be obtained from the Ministry of Finance Information Centre by calling (02641) 2092642 or (026461) 2092644.

 

VISA Requirements

All visitors require a passport for entry into Namibia, which must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay in the county, and have sufficient pages for entry and exit stamps. All visitors must also have a valid return ticket.

Validity:
Visas are valid up to three months from the date of issue for stays of up to three months from date of entry. Extensions for a further three months are available from the Ministry of Home Affairs in Windhoek.

Applications
Consulate (or Consular section at High Commission); see Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Application Requirements:
(a) Valid passport
(b) Completed application form
(c) Two passport-size photos
(d) Return or onward ticket or proof of accommodation
(e) Fee
Private: (a)-(e) and, (f) Letter of invitation from Namibian resident.
Business: (a)-(e) and, (f) Company letter (g) Letter from sponsoring company in Namibia

Temporary Residence Permit:
Apply to the High Commission or Embassy; see Namibian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

* Please note that a minimum of three working days are required for processing applications

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or send an email to: info@hoseakutakotours.com