Little time and loads to see – this is a problem that many visitors to Namibia have to face. Our tours solve this problem by taking you to Namibia’s best loved attractions. Accommodation, meals and transport are all taken care of, leaving you to enjoy this beautifully unique country.

Highlights featured on the Best of Namibia tours include the mighty Fish River Canyon, the famous dunes of Sossusvlei, Big Game in the Etosha National Park and cultural encounters with the nomadic Himba people.

• 4 Day Desert, Dunes and Wildlife
• 6 Day Dunes and Wildlife Experience
• 7 Day Namibian Highlights
• 7 Day Taste of Namibia
• 10 Days Canyons, Dunes & Big Game
• 10 Day Cats, Culture and Dunes

When the German Schutztruppe took over the Namibian coastline they faced several challenges. Not only was the coast a mariner’s nightmare, but on landing they were greeted by kilometres of desert blocking the way inland. The only way to transport supplies was by ox wagon and this proved horribly inefficient. The desert provided neither food nor water for the animals and so death of the oxen was a common cause of delay in supplies.

The German ox

It was a lieutenant of the Schutztruppe, Edmund Troost, who decided to do something about this. He hoped that machines could do, what the oxen couldn’t and so in 1896 he imported a steam engine from Halberstadt in Germany. The locomotive arrived safely in Walvis Bay along with the engine driver. The troubles seemed to be over, but then the Nama – Herero wars broke out.

Troost had to attend to his duties as a military officer, which kept the machine in Walvis Bay for 4 months. By the time Troost got back the engine-driver had gone back to Germany and a replacement was needed. An American prospector got the engine running, but the trip to Swakopmund proved to be a difficult task. Scarce and expensive freshwater supplies to keep the steam engine going were one obstacle, the locomotive getting stuck in desert sand the other. It eventually took Troost 3 months to cover the 30 km to Swakopmund.

Here I Stand…

When the engine finally started moving supplies inland, it sent the locals running. It was announced that this was a very strong ox from Germany. However this ox wasn’t coping very well in his new habitat. Freshwater supplies remained a problem and a lot of fire wood was needed as well. The locomotive had to take so much firewood, that there was little room for other supplies. Eventually the strong German ox died on the side of the road just like his animal brothers.

After this people started joking that the German ox was now called Martin Luther for the word of the reformer “Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise” now applied to him as well. The national monument is now restored and on display in Swakopmund.

Looking at the painting most people would probably describe the most prominent figure as some kind of a warrior or medicine man. This is also the description Reinhardt Maack gave. Maack was the first Westerner to set eyes on the painting in 1917. When he and a fellow explorer first climbed the Bandberg Mountains they found a rock shelter under which they slept. In the morning Maack discovered a rock painting on the wall next to him. It showed several people and antelopes in a hunting or dancing scene. Prominently featured was a male figure holding a bow and arrow and something resembling a flower. The figure was coloured white from the waist down, the rest of the body was black.

photo taken by Harald Süpfle

Maack made several sketches of the painting. To him this was a picture of a hunter or shaman, painted by the San people an estimated 2000 years ago. So how could this African hunter be named ‘White Lady’?

Enter Henri Breuil. The French priest and anthropologist first set eyes on Maack’s drawings in Cape Town in 1929. Contrary to everyone else Breuil was certain this rock painting depicted a female. Being a recognized expert on Mediterranean cave art, he determined the painting to be of non-African origin. He came up with some quite fanciful stories of how Europeans could have painted rocks in Southern Africa a good 2000 years ago.

In 1945 Breuil visited Namibia and subsequently published a paper and a book entitled ‘The White Lady of Brandberg’. Even though Breuil’s theories were refuted a long time ago, the name stuck. So we now have a San rock painting of a male African hunter called ‘White Lady’. But what’s in a name anyway.

Bat-Eared Fox

The bat-eared fox has strict dating rules

When dating is in the equation, the bat-eared fox exhibits behaviour similar to that of a human. When a female fox leaves her scent somewhere, her father follows her and hides his daughter’s scent in order to prevent a possible mate finding her. If a male wants to mate with a female, he has to ask her dad for permission. If the dad doesn’t like his daughter’s suitor, he may attack him and chase him away. Bat-eared foxes are monogamous animals, once they pair up with a suitable mate.

• This canid was named after its large ears
• This species of fox made its first appearance 800 000 years ago
• The nutritional regime of the bat-eared fox is of an 80% insectivorous nature. It can, sometimes, also include rodents, birds, eggs and various fruit
• Most of the daily water intake comes from the food the fox eats
• The groups are small, consisting of the mated pair and their kits. One litter usually produces between 2 and 5 kits

Meerkat

Meerkats always on the lookout

Meerkats are very social creatures, and are known to snuggle up to humans as they slowly get to know them. They are extremely inquisitive animals. Meerkat pups shuffle around oddly when first exploring the outside world. They walk in an unstable fashion, much like a human baby taking its first steps.

• The fawn-coloured meerkat is a relative of the mongoose family
• One clan usually supports 20 meerkats. The clan can, however, expand to include up to 50 meerkats
• This animal is very social in nature, and members of the clan can often be found grooming each other as a way of strengthening bonds
• The meerkat eats lizards, snakes, scorpions, spiders, plants, eggs and centipedes.
• It can eat scorpions, because it is immune to the venom
• The meerkat has no excess body fat, and therefore daily food intake is a crucial necessity
• Meerkats search for food in groups, with each of group members standing guard for one hour at a time.
• Meerkats exhibit babysitting qualities, and protect their young by gathering them in a heap and lying on top of them
• They also engage in wrestling matches and races for fun

African Penguin

The African Penguin is a very comical animal, known for its walk and braying sounds. These goofy penguins are quite reluctant around humans in the beginning. Once they feel safe and comfortable, they venture out into the crowds and slowly saunter around the beach. The African Penguin will proceed to explore its surroundings, and observe the behaviour of humans around it.

Sharing is caring / Clarissa, via Flickr

•  It was named Jackass Penguin for the braying sound it makes, similar to a donkey
• African Penguins eat approximately 540g of food daily, but can increase it up to 1kg when raising chicks
• The well known black stripe and black spots on the chest are unique on each penguin, much like the human’s fingerprints
• The penguin’s colouring is a sneaky form of camouflage. The black prevents predators spotting them when looking down onto the water and the white avoids them from being seen by underwater predators looking up
• The pink glands above the eyes are used for thermoregulation. Thermoregulation is the term used to describe an individual’s aptitude to regulate their body temperature within certain boundaries. As the penguin gets hotter, more blood is sent to those glands in order to lower the penguin’s body temperature
• The African Penguin can live between 10 and 27 years in the wild, and possibly even longer in captivity
• They are, however, very susceptible to predators. Some of these predators include sharks, Cape Fur seals, orcas, genets and the Kelp Gull
• This penguin species is endangered, with only 55000 African Penguins worldwide

Brown Fur Seal

The Brown Fur Seal is a very benevolent and investigative animal; it can often be seen exploring alongside scuba divers. This seal species is also very friendly and has a close bond with each other. When the parents are away searching for food, the babies get together and play in a group.

Inquisitive Seal / Tim Sheerman-Chase, via Flickr

• The most athletic fur seal species is also known as the Cape Fur Seal
• The pups are born after an 11 month gestation period, completely black. They slowly change their colouring to grey within 3 to 5 months
• Seals recognize their pups by their scent
• The Brown Fur Seal lives in the Cape Cross area of Namibia, and in the Cape of Good Hope area of South Africa. Rocky islands, reefs and boulder beaches are favoured breeding spots
• For the Brown Fur Seal, diving as deep as 204m for as long as 7.5 minutes in order to find food is a common practice. Its diet consists of 70% fish, 20% squid and 2% crab
• Predators include the Great White shark, orca, Black-backed jackal and brown hyena

Vervet Monkey

Vervet Mommy and child

Vervet monkey infants bear some semblance to a human infant, in the way they behave. Vervet monkey siblings enjoy playing games and chasing each other, much like human brothers and sisters. Vervet monkey babies are very cuddly and warmhearted around humans. They can spend ages cuddling up with people, wrapped around their shoulders and bouncing around like hyperactive children.

• They love the company of other vervet monkeys, and it is therefore no surprise that they can be found within groups of 72 members. Each of these groups has a hierarchy level firmly in place
• The vervet monkey has a wide range of sounds used in order to warn group members of predators in the midst. The babies like to imitate the warning sounds their parents make
• Vervet monkeys’ diet consists of fruits, leaves, flowers, insects, seeds and birds’ eggs
• Vervet monkeys are, unfortunately, hunted for medicinal purposes and for bush meat

Interested in the freedom of going where you want, when you want to? All this without the hassle of organising: accommodation, car-hire and a route? A self-drive safari is the perfect solutions for adventurous spirits, who want to explore the roads and the wildlife of beautiful Namibia.

Why Namibia?

Known for its captivating sense of space and a diverse landscape, Namibia is a perfect self-drive option for anyone expecting adventure. Known for its good road system, friendly and helpful people, it is a haven for the adventurer. Food and fuel is also readily available throughout the country and its abundance of well kept game reserves means that the chances of an elephant sitting your bonnet while on a national road is… unlikely.

Why to Self Drive With Us?

Some benefits:

• Plan ahead: Accommodation, car-hire and route organised according to your requirements
• Venture across the border: we can tailor make your “self drive safari” even if you wish hop borders during your journey

What to Expect?

Landing in Windhoek, you could head towards the Waterberg Plateau, known for an abundance of Namibia’s big cats. Heading north after that you will reach the Etosha National park which is superb for night-time game viewing. From here you could head towards the beautiful Damaraland landscape which plays host to beautiful ancient rock engravings. Your journey ends at NambiRand Nature Reserve which is at the heart of the Namibian wilderness.

As you can see, your journey is in your hands. Tell us where you would like to go and we will arrange your trip.

Safari Options

We offer two types of safaris:

• Accommodated safaris: if you are interested in combining luxury and adventure this may be a viable option. With the addition of a knowledgeable tour operator, your days will be spent driving a 4×4 exploring, assured that you will be greeted with a delicious dinner and cosy bed that night.
• Guided self drive safaris: with a fully equipped vehicle and a guide to offer you the local knowledge along the way, this option is suited best to the beginner who seek adventure with the assurance of knowledge by their side

Does this sound like an adventure that interests you? Contact us with the dates you wish to travel, what type of hospitality you will be looking for and your available budget.

Basic Packlist

Namibia is perfect for first time safari goers. With a solid infrastructure and malaria-free parks that are 2WD accessible, Namibia is great for hassle-free game viewing. Your only adversary will be the sun and the heat of this arid country – nothing that can’t be conquered with a good packlist:

• Casual, comfortable clothing
• Toiletries of a personal nature
• Insect repellent
• Sun block and lip creams
• Sunglasses
• Wide hat to cover your face, neck and shoulders
• Well-built, ankle-length, thick soled boots
• Light cotton safari clothes
• Fleece top or warm jersey for the cool evenings
• Shorts and t-shirts
• Swimming costume
• Binoculars
• Camera, spare batteries, and all relevant accessories
• Chargers
• Head torch

Safari Advice

Little precautions and or just choosing the right season to go can make life a lot easier. Here are some tested strategies for the African bush:

• Don’t pack too much clothing, as most lodges and small airlines only allow 12kg of luggage per person. Most lodges offer same-day laundry services, so extra clothing won’t even be necessary.
• If you wish to avoid the bugs, July and August are the best months to go. Game viewing is still magnificent during these months.
• Autumn is in May to September, therefore warm clothes, such as a warm jacket and scarf, are highly recommended for evenings. Light jerseys will be fine for the daytime. Spring and summer are from October to April, so light cotton clothes, t-shirts and shorts are comfortable choices for the daytime. Jeans or safari pants are acceptable for evenings. Make sure you also pack a swimming costume, and some sandals.
• If you only have time for one game drive per day, make it a morning one. It might be early and a little cold, but it will also be worth it.
• Arrange to do a walking safari at least once, as this will give you the chance to experience wildlife in a whole new way.
• Wear long pants when walking through the bush, even in hot weather. Your legs will get scratched and cut otherwise.
• Spray your room and mosquito net with repellent just before you leave for dinner. This way your room will be mosquito-free by the time you go to bed.
• If you have any prescription medication, take enough with you to last the entire trip. A copy of your prescription would be ideal, too.

Visas and Passports

Sorting out your travel documents in good time is essential. So even if paperwork isn’t your favorite, start early so you can remain calm even if things take a little longer.

• Whether you need a visa or not will depend on your nationality. Please check with the consulate for details.
• Passports need to be valid for 6 months after your stay.
• Make photocopies of all documentation; including your visa, passport, airline tickets, and driver’s license. Also keep a record of your traveller’s cheques’ numbers.

Introduction to the town of Walvis Bay

The city is situated north of the Tropic of Capricorn, at the end of the TransNamib Railway going to Windhoek, and on the B2 road. It was formally handed over to Namibia on the 28^th of February 1994. The city of Walvis Bay has a reputation of being one of the driest cities in the world. The warmest month, January, has a temperature of 24°C. July, being the coldest month, has a temperature of 17°C. The Eleven Arrows FC hails from Walvis Bay.

• Meaning “ Whale Bay” in English
• Discovered by Bartolomeu Diaz in 1487
• The harbor is ideal for fishing and cargo vessels, and smaller boats and yachts
• Regular supply of drinking water and electricity
• High quality internet, satellite, cellular, data and radio communication services
• The newspaper for Walvis Bay,Namib Times, receives coverage from many television, radio and satellite networks
• There is an abundance of hotels, lodges and resorts catering for the tourism market

Walvis Bay Lagoon Facts

Walvis Bay Lagoon is estimated to be about 3000 years old. The lagoon is famous for being the regular destination for some of the biggest whales, and an extensive range of bird species. Most of the 50000 residents are either employed in the fishing industry, or the production of sea salt.

• One of the richest and most valuable wetlands in Southern Africa
• It is formed by the well-known 7km long Pelican Point
• Popular activities amongst visitors include kite boarding, kayaking, wind surfing, bird watching, photography and jogging
• The lagoon is a key wetland, in ecological terms, because of its importance for coastal biodiversity (birds)
• Named a RAMSAR site in 1995
• The countless bird species that can be found here include flamingos, pelicans, sea gulls, cormorants, avocets, Cape Teal, Chestnut-banded Plover and Damara Tern
• Greater and Lesser flamingos breed elsewhere, but they come to the lagoon to feed
• The lagoon supports 40% of the Black-necked Grebe, as well as the Red-necked Phalarope, Common Redshark, Eurasian Curlew and Bairds Sandpiper
• The site can play host to approximately 250000 birds in summer peak times
• Halobacteria’s red colour is found in the blue-green algae that the Greater and Lesser flamingos feed on. This is how the flamingo gets its reddish-pink colour

Birdlife in the Walvis Bay Lagoon

Birdlife Statistics

RAMSAR

RAMSAR is an intergovernmental treaty founded in the Iranian city of Ramsar, in 1971. It provides framework for national action and international co-operation for conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. They publish the List of Wetlands of International Importance, and the member countries cover all geographic areas of the planet.

Oshakati

	Santorini Inn Santorini Inn with it’s modern and up to date facilities is an ideal place for you to stay.	Price: From
	Oshandira Lodge ‘Africa is an attitude that needs to be lived,’ reads the sign on the door to the bar at Oshandira Lodge. This philosophy is reflected in the very fabric that holds this stunning place together.	From
	Oshakati Country Lodge Oshakati is the ideal base from where business people and tourists can explore the Northern Region. The Lodge offers 50 fully equipped en suite bedrooms.	From

Ondangwa

	Ondangwa Rest Camp Before or after exploring the beauty of the Kaoko and Damara regions, you can overnight in the peace of the Ondangwa Rest Camp. Establishment offer you the comfort of fully developed camp sites and tent accommodation.	Price: From
	Olukonda National Monument The monument Olukonda National Monument is located In the beautiful plains of the Northern Namibia, amidst Makalani palms, Mahangu fields and Owambo homesteads.	From
	Cresta Lodge Pandu Ondangwa Cresta Lodge Pandu Ondangwa, a three star-hotel facility, is aimed a complementing Namibia’s most progressive and dynamic business centre in Northern Namibia.	From

The Damaraland has some of Namibia’s most famous tourist attractions. The rock art in Twyfelfontein, Spitzkoppe, Brandberg draw many visitors every year and should be on your list if you are travelling north to Etosha.
Besides the well-maintained camp sites you’ll find accommodation to suit any budget in this area:

	Haus Lizenstein Haus Lizenstein offers comfortable double and single rooms with en suite and internet access. Camping facilities are also available.	Price: From
	iGowati Lodge iGowati lodge offers comfortable rooms in a relaxed atmosphere with friendly and attentive staff. The Damara people are known for being extremely friendly and helpful. The lodge offers the ideal location for guests wanting to explore the Damaraland and Twyfelfontein areas.	FromUS$47
	Twyfelfontein Country Lodge The Twyfelfontein area, being a very vulnerable and delicate ecosystem, is renowned for some of the best examples of Bushman paintings and rock engravings in southern Africa.	From
	Mowani Mountain Camp Mowani Mountain Safari Camp in Twyfelfontein, Namibia offers luxury tented accommodation with beautiful desert scenery.	From
	Fort Sesfontein The Lodge , located in Fort Sesfontein was authentically built from the ruins of a historic fort built in 1896 with great attention to detail.	From