Namibian Wonders, a self-drive Safari
Namibian Wonders, a self-drive Safari
to prominent highlights of Namibia
A journey for nature and wildlife enthusiasts to the “Namibian Okavango Delta.”
This trip is primarily focused on wildlife observation, biodiversity, and wildlife photography. If you want to see many animals, there is no better and more diverse program. You will start on the central high plateau and visit two private conservation areas where you can observe and photograph Africa’s apex predators along with a wide variety of other animals.
The pronounced contrast between the dry semi-desert areas of the western and eastern Etosha National Parks and the water-rich dry forests, wetlands, and rivers of the Okavango, Kwando, and Chobe in the Caprivi Strip, due to the different habitats, offers a diversity of wildlife and plants that few other African countries can match.
We always put together our trips to be informative and enriching. While you’ll drive the connecting routes yourself, we are happy to arrange the necessary locally guided game drives and activities for you on-site.
Locate you as you enter the airport’s arrival hall – you’re eager to assist you.
Our team at Leaflove Safari will efficiently manage and oversee the vehicle handover, including insurance logistics.
You’ll receive your vouchers, maps, a detailed route description, and, of course, a warm welcome package.
Additionally, you’ll equip you with a GPS device featuring pre-programmed routes in the ‘Tracks 4 Africa’ system!
We opt for a comfortable lodge located directly alongside the Omaruru Dry River, where many animals naturally gather around the local waterhole. Supplementary feeding does attract the wildlife, but for families, it offers an up-close encounter with a wide variety of species.
Your stay will be at a highly sought-after medium-sized lodge, known for its well-guided game drives where you often have the chance to spot predators like lions and leopards in their natural habitat. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with fellow travellers, although some animals may be tagged, potentially impacting the wilderness experience. Nevertheless, the overall experience and photo opportunities are excellent.
While the animal density here may not match some expectations, the accommodation and services are of the highest quality, and the number of tourists is pleasantly moderate. Game drives still offer a wealth of wildlife sightings, and the diverse plant life adds to the richness, especially in terms of small animals and bird species.
Welcome to Namibia! We have scheduled two nights for you to unwind following a long and exhausting flight. You may want to do some shopping or sightseeing in Windhoek after picking up your rental car.
Amidst the enchanting acacia savannah of the central high plateau, you’ll discover a captivating red sandy terrain, adorned with imposing termite mounds and graceful umbrella acacias.
Your itinerary allows for a two-night stay in this remarkable locale, where locally guided game drives present an array of thrilling wildlife encounters.
These afternoon game drives come highly recommended, as they frequently lead to sightings of elephants and formidable big cats.
For a more relaxed and leisurely experience, the waterholes adjacent to the lodge provide a peaceful setting where giraffes, numerous antelope species, and an array of avian wonders can be observed and photographed. This tranquil atmosphere is ideal for those who prefer to “be the late bird” and savour the delights of wildlife photography while basking in the serenity of the surroundings.
Plains Camp is designed for “regular tourists” and happens to be the largest accommodation provided by the Africat Foundation. While it maintains a high standard, it can also host larger groups.
The Bushcamp stands as one of Namibia’s premier lodges, offering luxurious accommodations. Here, you’ll enjoy an all-inclusive experience and individualized attention.
The African Villa is nothing short of a dream; perfection personified!
This is the exclusive domain of the Africat Foundation, dedicated to the preservation of African cats. Here, you can virtually count on a successful encounter with wild leopards, and the chance to observe other magnificent felines like cheetahs.
Porcupines and intriguing antelope species, such as the crown duiker, are frequently spotted. The landscape, adorned with expansive red termite mounds in vast plains, is exceptionally picturesque. Notably, the awe-inspiring sight of the incredibly rare brown hyena, protected within this sanctuary, can be a truly memorable experience.
The natural setting along the Hoanib Dry Riverbed presents a significant variation in accommodation options. You must first travel approximately 60 km to reach the source areas before entering the region of desert elephants and breathtaking landscapes. However, the advantage of this accommodation lies in the rare aloes thriving in the surrounding mountainous terrain – an ideal destination for guests interested in botany.
At Awa-Huab, you’ll enjoy the premium class of tent chalets, while at Hoanib, you’ll be accommodated amidst the beautiful mountain landscape directly along the banks of the Hoanib Dry Riverbed. At Uniab, we offer you a comfort bungalow.
At Awa-Huab near Twyfelfontein, you have the opportunity to stay either in one of the most renowned lodges with fantastic views in an imposing granite ball landscape or in a high-quality authentic wilderness lodge at Awa-Huab. However, at Hoanib and Uniab, you will be accommodated in comfort rooms according to the classic version.
Namibia’s wildlife has settled in the oldest desert on Earth. The country boasts captivating landscapes, endless, uninhabited expanses, and a uniqueness unmatched by any other African nation. Here, you’ll find rare plants, bizarre geology, endemic birds, and even pachyderms like desert elephants, black rhinos, and possibly even desert lions – but this comes at a price. It requires lengthy searches, traversing seemingly endless distances, and overcoming thick sand until we stumble upon the first traces of desert dwellers and can follow them.
The dry rivers Huab, Awa-Huab, and Hoanib carve their way through this geologically remarkable desert landscape in the stunningly beautiful west. Along their banks stand towering Ana trees, also known as “Winter Thorn Acacias,” whose red pods are eagerly consumed by desert-dwelling elephants. With all-wheel drive, we traverse the thick sand, follow the tracks of the pachyderms, admire ostrich and springbok herds along the way, examine fascinating succulents, and eventually encounter the sought-after desert elephants. Experiencing such nature in this semi-desert is truly unforgettable!
Roadside Program:
Noteworthy are the 4000-6000-year-old petroglyphs at Twyfelfontein, the “burnt mountain,” and the basaltic “organ pipes.” About 200 million years ago, huge Cordaites trees were washed ashore in mud floods from Central Africa and petrified due to lack of oxygen, resulting in the fascinating geological formation we admire today.
A truly “untouched” nature, where wildlife can still follow the daily rhythm of Africa. Expect encounters with endemic Hartmann’s mountain zebra, numerous antelope and giraffe. Lions, leopards, cheetahs and elephants like to roam this area, being able to observe them is always a matter of luck (and a little experience).
We also like to use this area for the birdlife, as Bare-cheeked Babbler, Little Sparrowhawk and Scops Owlet can already be found in the garden here.
The lodge offers night drives, which can lead to encounters with aardvark, porcupine, genet, bat-eared fox, spring hare and other nocturnal animals.
You might want to consider staying at this lodge if you plan to travel through the western side of Etosha National Park on the day of departure. This allows you the opportunity to explore many waterholes without encountering many other tourists. The advantage lies in being the sole visitor at numerous waterholes, presenting superb wildlife photography opportunities.
Enjoy two nights in Etosha National Park’s central area. Choose between a private lodge just outside the park for comfort and tranquility, or a Waterhole Chalet by Okaukuejo Waterhole for unparalleled wildlife viewing at your doorstep.
In the central area, all the private lodges tend to be quite large and bustling with tourists. However, since most of your time will be spent exploring the park itself, this aspect might not be a significant concern for many visitors.
While Okaukuejo does offer more affordable double rooms, we have opted for and charged you for the chalets. It’s important to be aware that this area tends to draw larger numbers of visitors, so it’s advisable to be patient when it comes to accommodation and service. The location, though, is well-suited for this purpose.
If you seek a more exclusive experience, wish to escape the crowds, and prioritize superior accommodation, we strongly recommend considering one of our handpicked, smaller lodgings located outside the park.
The long drive through the west of Etosha National Park (if you have booked the additional days) leads to many waterholes, which are often unexpectedly visited by Africa’s mammals.
The “Great White Place,” Etosha National Park, sprawls over 22,000 km², making it one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich reserves. While the thrill of spotting a lion by the roadside or encountering a herd of elephants is undeniable, it’s essential to recognize that this vast landscape can be unforgiving, with wildlife enduring challenging conditions.
The park’s immense salt clay pan, spanning over 4,000 km², gives rise to artesian springs along the south bank, known as “contact springs.” These oases become crucial gathering points for diverse game species, particularly during drier and warmer seasons. It’s a testament to nature’s resilience and adaptability in the face of challenging environments.
You can easily drive in the park with your rental car and observe animals as you please. However, the lodges also offer game drives in open safari vehicles, which can provide the advantage of additional animal information and observations, as the local guides are knowledgeable, and you are certainly “going to see more“.
2 nights at a good lodge situated in the eastern area, directly adjacent to the park.
In the eastern area, the private lodges are all of commendable quality. For your stay, we’ve selected a very good bush camp, which offers excellent value without compromising on comfort.
Our choice of accommodation places you in the heart of the arid Terminalia dry Forest, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Prepare to be pampered in a lavish villa nestled within the enchanting Terminalia Dry Forest. This secluded and highly individual villa is often sought after as a honeymoon suite, promising a truly unforgettable experience.
The Etosha agama and the majestic blue cranes captivate your attention, as do the striking Makalani palms and the diminutive Dik-dik. The ever-changing flora of this region contributes to its remarkable biodiversity – here, it’s not just about seeing a multitude of animals, but also encountering a stunning variety of species.
Remarkably, the local wildlife has grown accustomed to the presence of vehicles, providing exceptional opportunities for both game viewing and photography. Along your journey, you’ll encounter several species of antelope, including springbok, red hartebeest, wildebeest, steenbok, the rare black-nosed impala, and the iconic oryx. Predators such as lions make frequent appearances, while leopards and cheetahs are somewhat more elusive. This rich ecosystem is also home to magnificent pachyderms, including the rare black rhino, white rhino, and savannah elephants that call this place their own.
We’ve arranged accommodation at a quality lodge near the Mahango Core Area of Bwabwata National Park. This lodge provides excellent game drives, including access to the wildlife-rich Buffalo Core Area.
For a luxurious experience, you’ll be staying at a high-end lodge with a spa, situated near the Popa Rapids. What sets this lodge apart is the opportunity for a boat ride that takes you right up to the rapids—an exclusive experience not offered at lodges further south.
As you venture into the deep north-east, you embark on a journey into a region that could be straight out of an African picture book. The first glimpse of traditional Nyemba huts, the scent of smoke from Girigu campfires, and the occasional crossing of the road by chickens and cattle signify our entry into this captivating real-africa realm. Here, the vegetation becomes progressively lusher and denser, and before you, the Kavango (later known as the Okavango) unfolds its grandeur.
Though Mahango Park may not be vast, it is a sanctuary for rare species like the tsessebe, sable, and roan antelopes, alongside the more common giraffes. Elephants, lechwe, waterbuck, and reedbuck frequently grace the banks of the Okavango. The majestic African Fish Eagle with its distinctive call and striking appearance never fails to leave an impression.
As you navigate the sandy trails of Mahango West, you may encounter the unique Chapman Zebra subspecies and often spot small herds of buffalo. Your reliable vehicle enables you to explore the eastern bank of the Okavango, particularly the Buffalo Core Area. Here, massive herds of buffalo and elephants are a common sight. Your objective is also to spot the magnificent Wattled Cranes and, with luck, even the elusive African Snipe in the southern mudflats of this region.
Dinner, bed and breakfast
Embark on a captivating boat excursion along the Okavango River, leading to a jackal berry forest. Here, the odds of encountering the elusive Pel’s fishing owl are notably high, promising an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Even within the garden itself, the Amethyst sunbird, Red-billed Firefinch, White-browed Scrub-Robin, and Meyer’s Parrots grace you with their presence. On a flatboat excursion, you’ll embark on a quest to spot Skimmers and African Openbill, along with the Rufous-bellied heron, Striated heron, and a host of other fascinating new species. If fortune favours you, you may even have the pleasure of encountering sought-after species like the Slaty egret and White-backed Night-Heron. And keep your hopes high, for this is where the elusive Pel’s fishing owl resides, and the local guide will do utmost to seek out this extraordinary bird!
An unassuming tented chalet, positioned right on the banks of the Kwando River, providing convenient access to a range of locally guided activities.
A well-appointed lodge located on the eastern bank of the Kwando River.
Situated on Nambwa Island, a splendid lodge perched on stilts, boasting a rustic yet opulent ambiance. This lodge immerses you in the heart of this extraordinary wilderness, delivering exceptional wildlife viewing experiences right at your doorstep.
The Kwando/Linyanti/Liambezi alluvial river basin is distinguished by its expansive reed belts, numerous lagoons, and extensive floodplains along the river’s course.
This unique landscape acts as a magnet for a diverse array of wildlife.
These waters teem with life, hosting thriving populations of hippos, crocodiles, and Nile monitor lizards. The riverbanks are a vital water source for a variety of antelope species, the striking Chapman zebra, buffalo herds, and an abundance of elephants. The allure of this wilderness extends to regular sightings of pythons and an increasing number of leopard encounters, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
For birdwatchers, this region is a true treasure trove, offering ample opportunities to observe a wide range of avian species.
In essence, it’s an unspoiled haven of pure nature!
A rustic tented lodge nestled within Nkasa Lupala National Park. Here, you’ll immerse yourself deep in the pristine African wilderness.
A rustic yet more upmarket tented lodge situated on the banks of the Linyanti River. This small lodge is tucked away in the heart of the African wilderness and offers a truly unique experience.
Since the wildlife density here is not as high as in Bwabwata National Park, and you’ll also be visiting the wildlife-rich Chobe, these two days could be omitted if needed due to logistical or cost considerations.
If you knew the Okavango Delta, you wouldn’t believe you were anywhere else in this wilderness. The vast floodplains of Linyanti showcase a picture-perfect Africa with termite mounds, grassy plains, and small palm islands.
Here, the animal density isn’t as high as in other places, but the feeling of wilderness, created by stunning sunsets and distant lion roars, is as genuine as it gets.
We can even explore the history of David Livingstone with you through a small museum…
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A modest tented chalet positioned right on the banks of the Chobe River. Being slightly further west, it offers a decent animal presence on the south bank, although not as densely populated as the eastern areas where exclusive lodges are found.
A charming family-operated lodge nestled on the Kasika Floodplain, conveniently close to the renowned and wildlife-rich Sedudu Island.
Indulge in the utmost comfort at a high-quality lodge located on the Kasika Floodplain, directly overlooking the famed and wildlife-abundant Sedudu Island. Here, the rooms are elevated on stilts, providing an exceptional vantage point right on the Chobe River.
A trip aboard one of our houseboats on the expansive Chobe River remains one of Africa’s most impressive wildlife experiences. The boat can dock far from the tourist hustle and bustle, offering you a deep red sunset directly in front of drinking elephants – accompanied only by the sounds of Africa. A stay aboard one of our houseboats provides each guest with a sense of intimacy and exclusivity as we aim to pamper our guests at the highest level.
You will return your rental car in Katima Mulilo today. We have organized transfers to the following destinations to facilitate your border crossings and procedures.
Today, your journey takes you to the remarkable Chobe River, nestled in the upper corner of Namibia, where it forms borders with Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. This region boasts the densest wildlife population in all of Africa. Each year, the Chobe River floods numerous shallow islands, creating a bountiful ecosystem that supports a thriving web of life.
As you gaze along the riverbanks, you’ll be greeted by the sight of numerous elephants, some even taking a leisurely swim – a photographer’s dream come true. The flat islands are a haven for buffalo, impala, the rare grass antelope known as the “Puku,” and waterbuck. Meanwhile, lurking Nile crocodiles keep a watchful eye from the water’s edge.
Above, the skies come alive with flocks of African Openbill storks, White-faced whistling Ducks, Spur-winged geese, and Pratincoles during our boat cruise. Slaty egrets make appearances along the shore, and the enigmatic Black heron captivates with its unique fishing technique of forming its wings into a bell shape. For avid kingfisher enthusiasts, exceptional photographic opportunities are virtually guaranteed in this avian wonderland.
We suggest a reasonably spacious lodge near the falls that offers simplicity but provides excellent value for your money.
Consider a small, charming, and contemporary guesthouse of exceptional quality, providing a high standard of comfort.
Indulge in the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel, a place many consider a must-visit when embarking on an African safari. A night’s stay at this legendary hotel is often deemed an essential experience.
David Livingstone aptly described the Victoria Falls as a sight even the „angels must have gazed upon“, given their breathtaking beauty.
These falls, the largest on our planet due to their impressive width, are a true wonder of nature, despite other falls being higher or wider individually. It’s the combination that makes them truly awe-inspiring.
As you approach the Victoria Falls, a constant misty rain envelops the surroundings, nurturing a lush forest of Cape figs, ferns, water pears, and towering baobab trees along the imposing riverbank. Here, you’ll marvel at the fruit-laden ficus sur trees while the Trumpeter hornbill feasts on the abundant figs and berries above you. The green Schalow’s turaco, with its striking red wings, calls out sharply, adding to the thrill of this vibrant ecosystem.
During your tour, you’ll encounter different viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective of the falls, which plunge a staggering 108 meters into the depths below.
Zimbabwe is home to many talented artists, and you’re likely to discover captivating works of art and meet intriguing individuals in this vibrant and colourful town.
Victoria Falls, located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, is a popular tourist destination with an international airport, Victoria Falls Airport (VFA). Many flights depart from Victoria Falls Airport, offering travellers various destinations and options.
Let us help you finding the correct schedule getting you home safely.
Participants per vehicle | natural | classic | luxury |
---|---|---|---|
1 Person | $ 5.946'00 | $ 7.601'00 | $ 12.099'00 |
2 Persons | $ 4.424'00 | $ 6.080'00 | $ 10.577'00 |
3 Persons | $ 3.916'00 | $ 5.573'00 | $ 10.069'00 |
4 Persons | $ 3.663'00 | $ 5.319'00 | $ 9.816'00 |
single room supplement | $ 488'00 | $ 771'00 | $ 2.112'00 |
If you are particularly interested in abundant wildlife, the months of September to November would be ideal. In February to March there are many birds but few mammals.
The risk of mosquito bites is very high in the months of January to May and you should definitely take precautions and protect yourself against mosquito bites. The months of June to November are hardly dangerous, but you should still protect yourself from mosquito bites and/or even take prophylaxis.
A lot of self-drivers now drive through the deep sand stretches of the Caprivi. If you follow the rules, use the four-wheel drive carefully and keep away from the elephant herds, everything should go well. If you are not comfortable with these short distances, we can plan the trip so that you only travel on safe routes and stay at accommodation that is easier to reach.
This Safari was last updated on 1. May 2024 @ 15:22.
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