Black / Hook-lipped Rhino / Spitzmaulnashorn

Elefantenbeobachtung am Moringa Wasserloch

Ondili Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp Premium Tent

Ondili Namib Outpost Namib Outpost Pool View Superior Suite

Ondili Namib Outpost Namib Outpost Superior Suite Pool

Ondili Brigadoon Guesthouse Garden View 1

Ondili Brigadoon Guesthouse Breakfast Room

Okonjima Okonjima Nature Reserve Activities 44

Ondili Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge Bedroom View Suite

Ondili Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp Pool View

Ondili Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp Sundowner View

Ondili Timelen Guesthouse Shady Place In The Courtyard

Ondili Namib Outpost Namib Outpost Main Building

Okonjima Okonjima Luxury Bush Camp View From The Restaurant

Ondili Natura, a selfdrive Safari

Tailored for the independent self-driving traveler, this journey promises flexibility, high-quality experiences, sustainability, and an unbeatable value proposition.

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Ondili Natura, a selfdrive Safari

Overview

“Ondili” translates to “I am at home” in the language of the Ovambo, the largest ethnic group in Namibia. We have named this journey “Ondili Natura” as we want you to feel “at home in nature.”
The collaboration with Ondili Lodges originated after a shared weekend in their private nature reserves, which breathe a unique idealism and a genuine desire for natural preservation and sustainability. On this journey, our guests experience accommodations of the highest quality in breathtaking natural reserves at a fair local direct price. In addition to the Ondili Lodges, we have carefully selected two excellent lodges that are also actively engaged in conservation, protecting vast areas and reinvesting a significant portion of their earnings into preserving the surrounding habitat.
During this trip, you will encounter Namibia’s prime attractions, enjoy first-class accommodations, be provided with an excellent rental car, and receive an unbeatable offer from us.

Highlights

Karte

Ablauf

Day 1

Arrival at Windhoek International Airport. After picking you up from the airport and explaining your vehicle to you, we'll head to the capital city, Windhoek.
Upon your arrival in Windhoek, an exciting day awaits you, starting with a self-guided city tour to explore the culture and history of this modern African city.

Days 2 & 3

Driving through the camel thorn savannah of the central high plateau, you navigate until reaching the diverse linear dune landscapes, karstic limestone ridges, and expansive salt pans of the Kalahari.
The linear dunes of the Kalahari offer you an abundance of diverse wildlife and birds in a typical African setting.

Days 4 & 5

The Namib Desert amazes with its vast expanse and stunning landscapes in a sparse yet rich environment.
Embarking on a rewarding hike up the dunes provides you with a fantastic view. The dry riverbed Tsauchab introduces another geological attraction - the "Sesriem Canyon."

Days 6 & 7

Swakopmund unfolds as a quaint coastal town, inviting you to leisurely stroll along its streets. In favorable weather, you have the opportunity to sunbathe, explore modern and colonial landmarks, and savor a cup of coffee.
An exceptionally charming and romantic town, featuring diverse tidal areas and lively dunes... a locale where you might find it tempting to extend your stay.

Day 8

The smooth granite walls of Spitzkoppe vividly depict stories of hunting scenarios and wildlife, artfully painted by indigenous people.
An inselberg emerges from the flat terrain, showcasing breathtakingly impressive granite formations and rare flora, providing a habitat where special birds can also be found.

Days 9 & 10

Twyfelfontein & Desert Elephants, Rock Engravings, and Burnt Mountains.
In this region, the towering Ana Trees, also known as "Winter Thorn Acacias," thrive, bearing red pods – a delicacy for the desert-dwelling elephants.

Days 11 & 12

Etosha National Park - Central
Ranked among the most wildlife-rich parks in Africa, Etosha National Park offers a natural haven for spotting numerous animals during your self-drive. With a bit of luck, you can enjoy optimal observations of elephants and big cats – patience and an early start often prove rewarding.

Days 13 & 14

Etosha National Park - East
This region boasts particularly high chances of encountering lions. Yet, the presence of dwarf antelopes, paradise cranes, and often rhinos adds to the fascinating wildlife experience in this area.

Day 15

Cheetahs and Leopards at the Africat Foundation.
At this foundation, your encounters extend beyond the desired big cats. Brown hyenas, white rhinos, and even porcupines can offer wonderful moments in the African bush.

Day 16

Departure
Now you've had a taste, and we know you'll be back! Until then...

Detailed itinerary

Logistics @ arrival

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!

Day 1

People, colours, shopping, and culture 

1 night stay within Windhoek at a charming small guesthouse with a very beautiful view
Ti Melen Guesthouse

inclusive:

Overnight stay with breakfast

not inclusive:

Dinner @ Joes’ Beerhouse

Windhoek, the colourful bustle of Africa

Upon your arrival in Windhoek, embark on an exciting self-driving adventure, starting with a city tour to explore the culture and history of this modern African city. Contrast the old architecture with contemporary structures and delve into the city’s diverse past.

Enjoy a delightful self-guided shopping experience in the downtown area, where you can peruse local crafts, from hats to authentic local leather shoes called “Vellies.”

Navigate through Windhoek’s informal settlements at your own pace and visit the Penduka Women’s Project, showcasing the resilience and courage of these women.

After a day filled with self-discoveries, we recommend unwinding at the world-renowned restaurant, Joe’s Beerhouse.

Days 2 & 3

Red sand, ancient trees

2 nights in a carefully selected lodge nestled in the captivating linear dune landscape of the Kalahari.
Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge

inclusive:

Full-board
2 game drives into the linear dunes not only showcase impressive landscapes but also provide an opportunity to observe a variety of birds and different animals.

Rippling linear dunes of the Kalahari

Your self-driving adventure takes you through the Camel Thorn savannah of the central plateau until you reach the diverse linear dune landscapes, crusted limestone ridges, and expansive salt pans of the Kalahari. The most captivating feature of the Kalahari reveals itself in its colors! With dark orange-hued dunes and brown-green Camel Thorn woodlands, the Kalahari is a true paradise for photographers. Along your route, discover gigantic Sociable Weaver nests in ancient Camel Thorn acacias. With a bit of luck, you may even encounter a Cape cobra, which often raids the nests of communal birds. Observe a variety of wildlife, including gemsboks, springboks, frequent kudus, and zebras. Enjoy sightings of ground squirrels and other small mammals like meerkats.

Days 4 & 5

… the highest star dune

2 Nights at a fantastically situated lodge with its private nature reserve in close proximity to the Namib-Naukluft Park.
Namib Outpost

inclusive:

Full-board

Dune landscapes at Sossusvlei, the Sesriem Canyon & fantastic desert scenery

The Namib Desert impresses with its overwhelming expanse and breathtaking landscapes in a seemingly barren yet rich environment. Particularly striking is the dune landscape in the morning light, encompassing the highest of its kind worldwide and creating an unforgettable panorama. The Tsauchab Dry River has cut off the path to the ocean, forming the unique “Sossusvlei” – a clay pan surrounded by ancient camelthorn acacias and green, thorny !Nara plants, framed by impressive high red star and crescent-shaped dunes. A worthwhile hike up the dunes offers a fantastic view. The Tsauchab Dry River presents another geological attraction – the “Sesriem Canyon.” Ox-wagon drivers once had to bind six thongs together to draw water from this gorge. Take the opportunity for a short hike into the canyon; it will definitely be rewarding.

Recommendation: Glide over the Namib Dune World in a Hot Air Balloon

There are those things you just have to experience! Weather permitting (as it can get very windy), the hot air balloon from Namib Sky takes off amidst the dunes and hills on the gravel plains of the Tsauchab. Enjoy a beautiful view of the dune and mountain landscapes and the interplay of various colourful scenery in the morning light.

Important:

If you wish to take a balloon ride, it would be advisable to extend your journey by an additional day!

Days 6 & 7

moderate climate…

2 nights at a guesthouse in Swakopmund that we have personally tested and chosen
Brigadoon Boutique Guesthouse

inclusive:

Overnight stay and breakfast

not inclusive:

Dinner (there are various restaurants in Swakopmund, and we are happy to assist and reserve a table for you…) In different high-quality establishments, you can enjoy a wide selection of fresh fish and delicious seafood daily. For those who prefer hearty meat dishes, authentic roast pork of the finest quality is also served here.

Activities around Swakopmund:

The town of Walvis Bay is just 30 km south of Swakopmund and offers a diverse destination with an 11,000-hectare lagoon. Tens of thousands of seabirds, seals, dolphins, and occasionally whales and sunfish “Mola Mola” enchant visitors to this world natural heritage site.

A leisurely and extravagant version of the visit is offered through a boat cruise, where fresh oysters and champagne are served.
For those who want to get even closer to nature and truly experience seals up close, booking a kayak tour on the lagoon is an excellent choice.
Take a guided city tour with a real Swakopmunder. Learn the truth, history, and secrets of this city.
Scenic flights over Namibia’s dune and desert landscapes. We recommend the 2 – 2.5-hour flight for an unforgettable experience.
Embark on a well-planned dune drive to encounter Namibia’s special “Little Five,” bringing you closer to the desert’s small creatures.
Sounds strenuous, but it’s refreshingly adventurous! Explore the beautiful dune landscape effortlessly and sportily with a Fatbike from Swakop Fatbike Tours.

Through the oldest desert to the Atlantic…

The gravel plains of the Namib stretch out before you, occasionally interrupted by mountains or a shimmering horizon. The long, straight roads are adorned here and there with small dust trails. Traverse the area through circuitous routes, passing through granitic sculptural landscapes, ancient erosion valleys, and dry riverbeds. The surroundings are marked by deadly silence, yet sometimes giraffes, often zebras, and antelopes can be spotted.

Embark on a foot exploration to discover the cave of the two geologists, whose story is recounted in the book “Sheltering Desert.” Please lace up your hiking boots.

Along the way, discover the world-famous “Welwitschia mirabilis” (1500 years old), lichen fields, and the erosion valley of the Swakop Dry River, also known as the “Mondlandschaft” (Moon Landscape).

Swakopmund is a small coastal town where there is ample time for leisurely strolls. In good weather, you can even sunbathe, visit modern and colonial landmarks, and enjoy a cup of coffee. Private coffee roasteries, a renowned gin distillery, numerous artists of various styles, and a distinctly relaxed atmosphere may tempt you to extend your stay. Here, you’ll find, among other things, the best-managed private museum in the country, an oceanarium, a crystal gallery, and a small bathing bay we call “Mole.”

: Auf der C14 ist immer starker touristischer Verkehr.

: grüne Landschaften zwischen Gaub und Kuiseb im März 2022

: Ohrenrobben sind häufig an der namibischen Küste.

: Welwitschia mirabilis, auch W.bainesii genannt, ist ein lebendes Fossil der Wüstenbotanik Namibias

: In Swakopmund sind wunderschöne historische Gebäude in geschmackvollen Farben zu bewundern.

: In Swakopmund sind wunderschöne historische Gebäude in geschmackvollen Farben zu bewundern.

: In Swakopmund sind wunderschöne historische Gebäude in geschmackvollen Farben zu bewundern.

: Die Landungsbrücke Swakopmunds ist ein historischen Denkmal der deutschen Kolonialzeit.

: direkt neben den Booten sind sie zu sehen… Delphine spielen gern in der Bug- und Heckwelle

: mit dem Kayak die Robben hautnah erleben

Day 8

Magmatic, gigantic and beautiful

1 night in an enchanting landscape with a stunning view of the gigantic Hohenstein, an impressive granite boulder, at a carefully selected lodge.
Hohenstein Lodge

inclusive:

Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast

Spitzkoppe & the mighty Erongo

In the distance, you’ll spot the iconic “inselberg” of Namibia, the Spitzkoppe, rising like a natural monument from the flat gravel plains of the Namib. The smooth granite walls of the Spitzkoppe tell stories of hunting scenarios and wildlife, painted by indigenous people and waiting to be discovered. The landscape creates a fairytale-like impression, offering countless opportunities for breathtaking photos. As you approach the gigantic granite spheres of the Erongo, you’ll feel almost “dwarfed” between the towering rock walls of these magma mountains. Exploring this region on your self-driving journey, whether it’s hikes or walks, unveils legendary rock paintings, semi-endemic bird species, and a remarkable semi-desert flora, allowing you to immerse yourself in the wonders at your own pace.

Days 9 & 10

Rock Engravings & Pachyderms in the Desert

2 nights amidst impressive granite formations at a carefully selected lodge.
Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp – Premium tent

inclusive:

Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast
Guided tour to the petroglyphs at Twyfelfontein. Guided (we know our way around) 4×4 game drive in the Awa-Huab dry riverbed to track down the desert adapted elephants.

Twyfelfontein & Desert adapted Elephants

Embark on a fascinating adventure to Twyfelfontein, celebrated for its ancient petroglyphs, the “burnt mountain,” and the basaltic “organ pipes.” Around 200 million years ago, colossal prehistoric “Cordaites” trees were carried in by massive mud floods from Central Africa, covered in muddy deposits. The lack of oxygen led to petrification, and these “petrified trees” now stand as uniquely peculiar geological formations.
Navigate through the desert landscape as the dry Huab River meanders to the west.

In this geologically rich area, seek out the gigantic Ana trees, or “winter thorn acacias,” with their red pods—a delightful treat for desert-dwelling elephants. Feel the thrill of a locally guided expedition as you search for these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Days 11 & 12

Lots of them Animalia

2 nights in the central area of the National Park at an enchantingly beautiful private lodge outside the park.
Etosha Oberland Lodge

inclusive:

Full-board

Etosha National Park – central

Etosha National Park stands out as one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich parks, thriving despite its comparatively arid conditions. The expansive 4,000 km² salt pan gives rise to artesian springs on the southern shore, famously known as “contact springs.” Particularly in the somewhat drier and warmer seasons, a diverse array of wildlife congregates at these springs.

The central area boasts openness and a covering of acacias, while the middle section features a dense mopane forest. In the east, you’ll encounter a dry woodland. Each of these distinct vegetation types plays host to a variety of animal species.

As you embark on your self-drive adventure, the opportunity to spot numerous animals naturally presents itself. With a bit of luck, optimal sightings of elephants and big cats await – showcasing that patience and an early start often yield rewarding results in this remarkable park.

Days 13 & 14

Even more animals…

2 nights at a well-located lodge in the eastern part, directly adjacent to the park.
Onguma Bush Camp

inclusive:

Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast

Comfortable seating for proper photography…

be wise and drive with us

Our Land Cruisers, specially modified for wildlife observation, feature wide window seats, and the roof can be raised at waterholes. This allows you to comfortably take photographs while sitting or standing.

Etosha National Park – east

We recognize that many of our guests come to Namibia primarily for wildlife observation. Hence, we have strategically planned two nights in the eastern part of the Etosha National Park for you to explore.
In this region, the slightly more abundant vegetation and numerous springs ensure a higher density of animals. The chances of encountering lions are particularly high here. Additionally, the presence of Damara Dik-Dik, Blue Cranes, and often rhinos adds to the allure of this region.

Tip:

Consider booking an additional guided game drive led by locals. We would be happy to recommend an experienced local guide for you.

: Uraeginthus angolensis, hieß früher treffend der Angola Schmetterlingsfinke

: Spitzmaulnashörner sind extrem bedroht und nachtaktiv. Sichtungen am Tage sind besonders und schön.

: der Trockenwald im Osten des Etosha ist die heimat des Dik Dik.

: Blue Crane / Paradieskranich

: schon früh am Vormittag stillt das Nashorn seinen Durst. Beobachtung ab Juli möglich.

: Ein großes Löwenrudel kann in der Gegend rundum Namutoni aufgrund seiner Arglosigkeit und die verlorene Scheu vor Fahrzeugen sehr fotogen gesichtet werden.

Day 15

Great all year round…

One night at one of the prime lodges of the Africat Foundation
Okonjima Bushcamp

inclusive:

Full-board
One game drive in an open safari vehicle, guided by well-trained rangers

The Africat Foundation – Leopards, Cheetahs & Brown Hyenas

On today’s route, you can visit Otjikoto Lake, a large doline—a peculiar lake with unexplored depth, mysterious and beautiful.

Try to be early, since this is the domain of the Africat Foundation, an organisation dedicated to African cats. Considerable time and effort are dedicated to the conservation and research of various wild cats, particularly cheetahs and leopards. A successful sighting of wild leopards is nearly guaranteed, and you’ll also have the opportunity to observe other cats like cheetahs. Another remarkable sighting could be a brown hyena!
Joining a game drive led by local guides/experts in open 4×4 safari vehicles is part of the plan.

Photographers will find these game drives especially rewarding, as their needs are taken into consideration. Well-guided walks and game drives offer visitors valuable insights into the nature and workings of the project.

Day 16

Hope to see you again… soon

Unfortunately, farewell…

Continuing on the north-south route, you’ll eventually arrive back in Windhoek. Unfortunately, your memorable journey concludes in Windhoek, and we sincerely hope you depart in good health and high spirits. After returning the rental car, transportation to the airport will be arranged for you. Feel free to explore the city further, perhaps visiting the Craft Centre where Namibian artists showcase and sell their crafts.

Our team is ready to assist with booking transfers and any additional logistics you may need, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for your onward journey.

Services included

Rental car:

Services not included

Indicative prices for 2024

Participants per vehicle	Per Person
1 Person	$ 7.997'00
2 Persons	$ 6.432'80
3 Persons	$ 5.911'40
4 Persons	$ 5.649'60
Single room supplement	$ 1.124'20

We are happy to answer frequently asked questions in advance

Which season is suitable for this trip?

This trip is designed to cater to a broad range of interests, and you will have suitable weather for your observations at various locations throughout the year. If you are particularly interested in wildlife observation, this journey would be ideal from May to November. If you wish to savor the fantastic desert landscapes, February, March, and April would be very suitable.

I have never been to Namibia; this trip seems to provide a good overview?

Yes, this safari offers a very diverse mix of various attractions, a variety of landscapes, wonderful botany, a good insight into Namibia’s rich history, and the opportunity to see a wide range of animals.

We have some more time; can we extend the trip?

Certainly, you tell us what particularly interests you, and we will adjust the itinerary accordingly.

The trip seems to be quite expensive; will we get value for our money?

This trip offers an exclusive experience in extremely comfortable accommodations, far removed from the usual, disruptive routine of tourism. The accommodations themselves are already a highlight, situated amid breathtaking landscapes that are privately protected and surrounded. Through a direct collaboration, we can offer you this trip at a direct price, making it a particularly attractive offer.

An offer especially for you! Simply let us know your change requests in this form.

send us a non-binding inquiry for 'Ondili Natura - selfdrive'

This Safari was last updated on 26. April 2024 @ 12:02

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