Wildlife – Big Five, a guided Safari
Wildlife – Big Five, a guided Safari biodiversity and wildlife photography in Namibia, a guided individual tour, flexibly customisable to the wildlife-rich areas of Namibia.
Experience Namibia – Thoughtfully Planned, Unforgettably Diverse
This journey combines well-considered logistics, a rich variety of experiences, and the perfect balance between comfort and adventure. Let yourself be inspired by breathtaking landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and the fascinating botanical diversity that makes Namibia so unique.
Look forward to the vegetated dunes of the Kalahari, the mighty Fish River Canyon, the mysterious Quiver Tree Forest, and the vast, primeval landscapes of the south. Experience the world’s highest dunes at Sossusvlei in the finest light, and immerse yourself in the cultures of Namibia’s diverse ethnic groups – whether in present-day encounters or through ancient rock engravings that whisper stories of long-forgotten times.
A true highlight awaits in Etosha National Park, where we’ve planned ample time for in-depth wildlife observation. This world-renowned conservation area offers unforgettable encounters with an astonishing variety of animals – from elephants, giraffes and lions to rare sightings of cheetahs and rhinos.
Our route is designed to take you through Namibia’s most contrasting habitats, offering you the chance to observe endangered species such as brown hyenas, bat-eared foxes, and leopards in their natural environment. Whether on scenic hikes or relaxed game drives, you’ll gain deep insight into the land’s extraordinary nature and rich history.
You’ll be accompanied by the exceptional guides of Leaflove Safari – highly knowledgeable naturalists, passionate storytellers, and experts in flora, fauna, geology and culture. With them by your side, every wildlife sighting becomes more meaningful, every moment in nature more vivid, and every encounter with Namibia more profound.
Of course, we’ve also chosen our accommodations with great care – offering outstanding value for money, ideal locations for exploration, and all the comfort you need to feel at home in the wild.
A journey designed to let you experience Namibia in all its richness and splendour.
Our Land Cruisers, specially converted for game viewing, have wide window seats and the lever roof is opened at the water points. So you can comfortably take photos sitting and standing up.
1 night at a relaxing lodge located near Windhoek.
Gocheganas Lodge
After a long flight, it’s all about arriving, unwinding, and soaking up the first rays of African sun.
Upon your arrival at Windhoek International Airport, we’ll meet you and take you on a short orientation tour through Namibia’s capital. Along the way, you’ll discover a blend of old and new – from historic colonial landmarks such as the Christ Church, the Ink Palace, and the Alte Feste, to the modern cityscape of today’s Windhoek.
As you stroll through town, you’ll witness the vibrant interaction of Namibia’s many cultures. There will also be an opportunity to exchange currency and pick up a few essentials.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy – whether on a gentle walk, a short hike, or simply relaxing by the pool. For those who wish, there is also the option of joining an afternoon game drive, where you may be lucky enough to spot your first wildlife.
1 overnight stay
At this charmingly rustic yet characterful lodge, you’ll be comfortably accommodated in your own private bungalow. We’ve chosen this lodge because of its thoughtful, low-impact design: rather than cutting down trees, the buildings were carefully constructed around them – a quiet gesture of respect for nature that’s a true delight.
This morning walk is designed to open your eyes to the small wonders of the Kalahari – its birds, its delicate ecosystems, and the beauty hidden in plain sight. The soft morning light filtering through camelthorn acacias over red dune sand creates a photographer’s dream.
As you stroll across the dunes, keep an eye out for ground squirrels, admire the enormous communal nests of sociable weavers in ancient camelthorn trees, and scan the branches for the elusive pygmy falcon.
– With a bit of luck, you might even spot a Cape cobra, known to raid the nests of these communal birds.
In the afternoon, a game drive will take you into the dune valleys, where you’ll have the chance to observe various antelope species and giraffes moving gracefully through this unique desert landscape.
2 overnight stays east of the canyon at a well-appointed lodge, beautifully nestled within the surrounding landscape and offering excellent opportunities for walking and exploration.
Today, you’ll explore the Giant’s Playground, a surreal landscape also known as the “Wart Field”. Here, solitude, vast open skies and bizarre dolerite rock formations shape not only the scenery, but also the lives of those who call this place home.
You’ll have ample time to photograph the iconic quiver trees nestled among the ancient boulders, and to delight in sightings of rock agamas and the ever-curious rock hyraxes as they bask in the sun.
The Fish River Canyon is nothing short of overwhelming – both geologically and scenically. Its striking rock formations, dramatic erosion valleys and sheer depth leave a lasting impression. Long ago, this breathtaking canyon already drew early explorers to what can only be described as a monumental natural wonder.
The flora of this semi-desert landscape is just as captivating: deep-red aloes, strikingly beautiful yet highly toxic euphorbias, brilliantly camouflaged stone grasshoppers, and extraordinary light that brings every texture to life.
One young boy, when asked for directions to the canyon, once said,
“Something terrible must have happened to the Earth here, a long time ago.”
And indeed – it’s a place that stirs the imagination.
Several viewpoints are easily accessible by vehicle, and we’ll take the time to walk along the canyon’s edge, where we’ll introduce you to the local wildlife and plants – from klipspringers, rock hyraxes and Verreaux’s eagles, to mountain zebras and agamas sunning themselves on the rocks.
1 overnight stay in a beautifully secluded and highly individual lodge, nestled among striking granite formations. The views from the bungalows are simply magnificent.
The origin of the wild horses roaming the Namib Desert remains a topic of debate. Credible research suggests they may have descended from German and Boer horses left behind during the unsettled years of the First World War.
Whether or not these horses “belong” in the desert is a question best left to ecologists – but there’s no denying the thrill of watching them move freely across the arid plains.
And who knows? You might just capture that perfect shot of two stallions locked in a dramatic display of strength.
On this leg of the journey, the road itself becomes the destination. Travelling along the Orange River, we’ll be on the lookout for one of the rarest plant species in the world. Legend has it that fugitives from ancient times were turned into plants – and thus was born the biblical tale behind the “Half-Man”, Pachypodium namaquanum, a strange succulent that always turns its “head” to the north.
This seemingly lifeless metamorphic rock desert holds far more than meets the eye: stunning scenery, secretive small creatures, fascinating birdlife – and several other species of quiver trees, which we’ll be glad to introduce you to.
The lush green vegetation along the banks of the Orange River stands in vivid contrast to the arid stone desert – a beautiful reminder of nature’s extremes.
1 overnight stay at a quality lodge located within the Namib-Naukluft Park.
Thanks to the exclusive location, we’re granted special access to the dunes before sunrise and after sunset – a priceless advantage for landscape photographers and anyone seeking a truly undisturbed desert experience!
1 overnight stay beautifully set amidst a mesmerising interplay of living dunes, ancient fossilised sandscapes, linear desert oases, and the wide gravel plains of the Namib.
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
A Landscape of Dunes in Gentle Morning Light – and the Highest of Their Kind
The Tsauchab dry river was once on its way to the ocean, but its path was blocked by shifting dunes. The result: the creation of Sossusvlei, a sun-baked clay pan surrounded by towering red crescent and star-shaped dunes. Framed by ancient camelthorn trees and the spiky green !Nara plants, it’s one of Namibia’s most iconic landscapes.
Since we stay inside Namib-Naukluft National Park, we depart before sunrise and reach the dunes in the soft light of dawn – well before the crowds arrive. It’s the perfect time for quiet reflection, incredible photography, and an unforgettable connection with the desert. Those who climb are rewarded with a breathtaking view.
Nearby lies another geological marvel: the Sesriem Canyon, carved by the Tsauchab River over millennia. Ox-wagon drivers once used six rawhide thongs tied together – “ses rieme” – to fetch water from its depths. A short walk into the canyon reveals its beauty and history.
Beneath the modern dune landscape lies a much older one – fossilised dunes glowing in vivid orange. Combined with endless grass plains, camelthorn gallery forests, dolomitic ridges and Namibia’s majestic dune seas, this region offers an extraordinary visual tapestry.
And we’ll be there to explore it with you.
2 nights in a stylish, intimate guesthouse in a quiet part of Swakopmund – just a short walk from the beach and town centre. Spacious rooms with private terraces and warm, personalised service.
The town of Walvis Bay, just 30 km south of Swakopmund, makes for a rewarding day trip. Its 11,000-hectare lagoon, a designated World Nature Heritage Site, is home to tens of thousands of seabirds, seals, dolphins – and, on occasion, even whales or sunfish (Mola mola), delighting all who visit.
The vast gravel plains of the Namib stretch out before us, occasionally interrupted by distant mountain peaks or a shimmering horizon. Along long, straight roads – sometimes trailing a faint dust cloud – we venture far from the main routes to explore sculpted granite landscapes, ancient erosion valleys, and dry riverbeds.
This almost eerily silent environment is surprisingly full of life: giraffes, zebras, and antelope often appear – and with a bit of luck, even cheetahs may cross our path.
On foot, we visit the secluded cave once used by two geologists whose story is told in the book “Wenn es Krieg gibt, gehen wir in die Wüste” (“If War Comes, We’ll Go to the Desert”) – so be sure to have your walking shoes ready.
Along the way, we’ll introduce you to the world-famous Welwitschia mirabilis, some over 1,500 years old, as well as ancient lichen fields and the dramatic Swakop dry river valley, also known as the “Moon Landscape” for its otherworldly terrain.
Our journey leads us to Swakopmund, a charming coastal town that invites relaxed strolling, sunbathing (weather permitting), and visits to both modern and colonial landmarks. Cosy cafés, local coffee roasters, a renowned gin distillery, vibrant art galleries, and an unmistakably laid-back atmosphere often tempt visitors to linger longer than planned.
Swakopmund also boasts Namibia’s best privately run museum, an oceanarium, a crystal gallery, and the picturesque bathing bay known as the Mole.
Visit to the San Living Museum, including a short and insightful walk with San guides to ancient rock paintings.
Even from a distance, Namibia’s best-known “inselberg”, the Spitzkoppe, stands out like a natural monument, protruding from the flat gravel surface of the Namib.
San Bushmen, or so we all like to believe, have painted clearly visible scenarios of hunting and wildlife on the smooth granite walls. The landscape looks like a fairytale and offers wonderful photographic opportunities.
The gigantic granite spheres of the Erongo are impressive, as the visitor feels literally “dwarfed” between the towering rock faces of these bulbous magma mountains. Some legendary rock paintings, semi-endemic bird species and a remarkable semi-desert flora await the hiker or walker here..
Bushman Walk: Here we meet authentic Bushmen who will be happy to open your eyes to their world on a short walk. You will learn how they set traps, use herbal remedies and go hunting with poisoned arrows. You will also see how a fire can easily be lit in this great semi-desert and how pretty jewellery can be made from ostrich eggs and colourful seeds.
2 nights @ a tranquil retreat tucked beneath shady trees on the eastern edge of Etosha. This intimate camp combines rustic charm with warm hospitality, offering comfortable thatched chalets, a relaxed atmosphere, and easy access to excellent wildlife viewing in Onguma’s private reserve.
Our Land Cruisers have been specially modified for wildlife observation, providing spacious window seats. Additionally, the rooftop can be opened at watering holes, allowing you to comfortably take photographs while sitting or standing
Etosha National Park is one of the most wildlife-rich parks in Africa, despite its arid nature. The 4,000 km² salt and clay pan in the southern part of the park feeds natural springs that attract large numbers of animals, especially during the dry and hot seasons.
The park is divided into distinct vegetation zones: central Etosha features acacia savannah, the middle region is dominated by dense mopane woodland, and the eastern part transitions into dry forest – each zone home to a different variety of wildlife.
As you travel through the park, you’ll have the chance to observe a wide range of animals, including elephants and big cats. Early mornings and a bit of patience are often rewarded with remarkable sightings.
We’ve planned two overnight stays in the eastern part of the park, where the denser vegetation and numerous water sources support a particularly high concentration of wildlife. Your chances of seeing lions, Damara dik-diks, blue cranes, and even rhinos are especially good here.
2 overnight stays at a lodge run by the AfriCat Foundation.
All lodges here are tastefully designed and offer a high level of comfort, perfectly blending with the surrounding landscape.
En route today, you may wish to visit Lake Otjikoto, a large sinkhole lake of mysterious depth – beautiful, enigmatic, and still largely unexplored.
Optional detour with early departure:
The Tsumeb Museum houses an exceptional collection of large, naturally formed and highly valuable crystals, along with artefacts from the First World War, including historic cannons.
Not far from here, hidden in the bush, lies another marvel: the Hoba meteorite, the largest known intact meteorite on Earth.
Today’s destination:
You’ll arrive at the home of the AfriCat Foundation, an organisation dedicated to the conservation and research of Africa’s wild cats, with a focus on cheetahs and leopards. Significant time, energy and passion are invested here in understanding and protecting these magnificent predators.
A guided game drive in an open 4×4 vehicle, led by local experts and rangers, offers an excellent chance of observing wild leopards – with sightings being almost guaranteed. Cheetahs and even the elusive brown hyena are also commonly seen.
Photographers are well catered for on these drives, with plenty of time and consideration given to positioning and lighting. Guided walks and drives provide deeper insight into the local ecosystem, conservation work, and the daily operations of this exceptional wildlife project.
Many of your guests opt to combine the final leg of their journey with the airport transfer and check-in during the afternoon. However, recognizing that some prefer to explore the city further or minimize the last-day stress, you arrange an extra night in Windhoek or a stylish accommodation near the airport upon request.
Namibia boasts excellent connectivity, with various airlines departing from either Windhoek, the capital, or Walvis Bay, providing flexibility for your travel preferences.
Additionally, some guests choose to enhance their experience with an added component, such as a fly-in to the Caprivi, a visit to the Okavango Delta, or a few days in Cape Town. The choice is entirely yours, and you’re here to accommodate your preferences.
The final travel day unfolds efficiently, allowing time—if desired—for a last stroll through the capital to pick up handcrafted Namibian souvenirs or to enjoy one final game steak with a cold local beer.
As most international flights to Europe depart in the afternoon, late afternoon or overnight, we recommend spending your final night just outside Windhoek. This allows you to unwind at the end of your journey, while still reaching the airport with plenty of time and no rush.
In the afternoon, we will either take you directly to the airport, or to a recommended lodge, from where we will arrange a reliable transfer to your departing flight.
Participants per vehicle | per Person |
---|---|
1 Participant | 14.709,00 € |
2 Participants | 9.460,00 € |
3 Participants | 7.712,00 € |
4 Participants | 6.838,00 € |
5 Participants | 6.313,00 € |
6 Participants | 5.964,00 € |
7 Participants | 5.714,00 € |
Single supplement | 796,00 € |
For this trip, we have carefully selected accommodations ranging from upscale mid-range standards (which are considered high in Namibia compared to other parts of Africa) to premium options.
Please get in touch with us, and we will be happy to send you the detailed itinerary with specific accommodation information and relevant links.
Why April is an ideal time for landscape photography in Namibia:
The trip definitely begins and ends at Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. However, additional days can be arranged upon request, with transfers included.
Walvis Bay is served daily from Johannesburg and Cape Town and makes an excellent addition to the itinerary, as many of our guests choose to spend a few days relaxing in Cape Town or Swakopmund after the tour.
In a time when flight bookings are just a few clicks away, it may seem old-fashioned to involve a travel agent. But when it comes to navigating the ever-changing world of air travel—delays, reroutes, strikes, cancellations, and the charming surprise of “you no longer have a seat”—working with a real human still has very real advantages when unexpected challenges arise, such as:
Delays and last-minute flight changes
Strikes or changes made by the airline
Seat changes without prior notification
The need to rebook during your trip
Especially in those moments—just imagine being on safari while these changes occur—it is incredibly helpful to have a reliable contact person who handles everything quickly and professionally.
Even if booking flights through a travel agency may seem slightly more expensive, it is absolutely worth the investment. The service, support, and peace of mind it provides, particularly in problematic situations, are priceless.
We’ve had consistently excellent experiences with the following agencies – they are professional, fast, and reliable.
Please make sure to always mention that you are booking through Leaflove Safari / Albert Voigts.
This is the only way we can ensure that all flight times are accurately recorded and that we can coordinate with the agents to perfectly align the itinerary with your travel plans – e.g. for organizing transfers, airport greetings, or handling last-minute changes.
📱 +264 81 249 8760
✉️ ticketing@tokkiestravel.com
➡️ Anja has already assisted many of our guests – reliable, fast, and solution-oriented.
📱 +264 81 202 6002
✉️ sonja@moloafricatravel.com.na
➡️ Sonja is also highly experienced and particularly helpful when it comes to last-minute rebookings.
I would love to talk to you about this personally, since we would have to find something which suits your interest, budget and timeframe…
This Safari was last updated on 24. April 2025 @ 11:00.
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