Taste of Namibia Adventure Tour

Traveling through Namibia with the Taste of Namibia Adventure Tour promises an engaging journey filled with wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and vibrant coastal town life. This comprehensive 8-day trip is designed for travelers eager to see some of Africa’s most iconic sights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. From the chance to spot big cats and elephants to climbing colossal sand dunes, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure and nature.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines up-close wildlife sightings, spectacular scenery, and local cultural moments. Plus, the carefully curated itinerary ensures you don’t just glance at these sights but experience them authentically. That said, with a packed schedule and a fair amount of travel time, it’s best suited for energetic travelers who don’t mind early mornings and long drives. If you’re after a laid-back holiday, this might feel a bit intense, but for those craving a genuine adventure, it hits the mark.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Experience close encounters with big cats, elephants, and desert-adapted species.
Iconic Landscapes: Visit Sossusvlei’s towering dunes and the salt flats of Dead Vlei for unforgettable photo ops.
Cultural Insights: Explore Swakopmund, Namibia’s seaside hub for adventure and local flavor.
All-Inclusive Value: Accommodation, park fees, guided tours, and most meals are included, making this a hassle-free experience.
Authentic Experiences: Safari guides are knowledgeable, and the focus on real wildlife sightings brings you closer to Namibia’s natural beauty.
Adventure & Comfort: Climb the world’s high sand dunes, but also enjoy some free time to relax or explore on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Day-by-Day Look at the Adventure

Looking for more options in Swakopmund? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: Windhoek to Okonjima & Okonjima Plains Camp

The journey kicks off in Windhoek, heading north to Okonjima AfriCat Foundation. The highlight here is the chance to track cheetahs and leopards, with the opportunity for safaris that put you in close proximity to these incredible cats. We’ve read that guides like Daniel and Peter, known for their passion and knowledge, make all the difference here. One guest mentioned, “Daniel’s enthusiasm during the cheetah tracking made it feel like watching wildlife with a friend rather than a guide.”

Staying at the Okonjima Plains Camp offers comfortable accommodations with a genuine African lodge vibe, perfect for relaxing after a day of wildlife excitement. The meals included here are hearty and satisfying, helping you fuel up for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Leopard Tracking & Transfer to Etosha National Park

Early morning is dedicated to leopard tracking—a sought-after activity that involves jeep excursions at one’s own cost. The fact that this is available at Okonjima makes the experience feel closer to a wildlife documentary. Many visitors appreciate this option, calling it “a real highlight” of the tour.

Post-brunch, the trip continues to Etosha National Park, one of Namibia’s most famous wildlife reserves. The park’s vast salt plains and waterholes create exceptional game-viewing opportunities. Staying at Namutoni Wildlife Resort ensures proximity to prime game-viewing areas, with some guests noting the “beautiful setting” and “friendly staff.”

Day 3: Game Drives & Nighttime Animal Encounters

The early start to explore Etosha is a hallmark of this tour. Setting off before sunrise gives you the best chance to see nocturnal animals returning to waterholes—an experience described as “magical” by travelers. The guide’s local knowledge shines here, as they point out animals or tracks you might otherwise miss.

Overnight at Okaukuejo, famous for its floodlit waterhole, which offers the chance to observe animals in the cool of the night. Many reviewers highlight the abundance of elephants and the chance to see predators like lions.

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Day 4: Full Day in Etosha

Another day of game drives deepens your connection with Namibia’s unique desert-adapted wildlife. Guests often mention the large elephant populations and the thrill of spotting elusive predators. The park’s landscape, a mixture of grasslands, salt flats, and sparse trees, creates a dramatic backdrop that makes every sighting special.

There's plenty more to explore in Swakopmund

Day 5: To Swakopmund—The Coastal Escape

Leaving Etosha behind, the tour heads west towards the ocean-side town of Swakopmund. The drive through Namibia’s changing scenery—from open plains to coastal dunes—is breathtaking. Upon arrival, the town’s relaxed vibe and quirky shops invite you to unwind after days of safari.

Guests typically enjoy exploring on their own here, with many appreciating the town’s blend of adventure options and seaside charm. The Swakopmund Sands Hotel provides a comfortable base to relax or explore.

Day 6: Free Day in Swakopmund

This open day gives travelers the chance to do their own thing. Some might opt for optional activities like quad biking or a visit to Sandwich Harbour, while others simply soak up the beach atmosphere. The town has a good range of shops, cafes, and beaches, making it perfect for a leisurely day.

Day 7: Through the Namib Desert to Sossusvlei

Early morning departure to the Namib Desert, passing through iconic spots like the Kuiseb Canyon and Gaub Pass. These scenic drives highlight Namibia’s rugged beauty. Arriving in Sossusvlei, you’ll stay at the Dead Valley Lodge, close to the star attractions—massive sand dunes and salt pans.

Day 8: Sossusvlei & Return to Windhoek

The highlight of this day is climbing the sand dunes of Sossusvlei and visiting Dead Vlei, with its striking skeleton trees and cracked earth. Many guests mention how climbing the dunes was a “surprisingly exhilarating” experience, offering panoramic views and fantastic photo opportunities.

After a packed morning exploring, you’ll head back to Windhoek via the Remhoogte Pass, giving you one last chance to take in Namibia’s dramatic scenery before returning home.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Wildlife Enthusiasts Will Love the chance to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat, with optional leopard tracking adding a special touch. The guides have been praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the game drives informative and enjoyable.

Landscape Lovers Will Be Captivated by Namibia’s stark yet stunning scenery. The towering dunes of Sossusvlei are among the most recognizable sights, and the views along the Passes are nothing short of spectacular.

Adventure Seekers Will Find Plenty to Do, from game drives to sandboarding and dune climbing. Swakopmund’s adventurous spirit complements the safari experience perfectly.

Travelers Looking for Comfort and Convenience will appreciate that most meals, park fees, and accommodations are included, removing much of the usual trip planning stress.

However, a potential consideration is the long travel days, especially between destinations, which can be tiring. The schedule is quite full, so those seeking a relaxed holiday might find it a bit intense.

Value and Pricing: Does It Stack Up?

At $3,121 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of inclusions. Accommodation, guided safaris, park entry fees, and most meals are covered, which simplifies budgeting and ensures you don’t get hit with surprise costs.

While the price might seem high, it reflects the extensive itinerary, expert guides, and all logistics handled for you. Considering the quality of lodges and the unique experiences—the chance to track leopards, climb dunes, and observe wildlife in Etosha—the experience offers excellent value for travelers who want an immersive Namibia adventure without the hassle of planning each detail.

Practical Tips for Your Namibia Adventure

Pack comfortable shoes for walking and climbing dunes.
Bring camera gear and binoculars to get closer views of wildlife.
Stock up on biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.
Carry cash for tips or optional activities not included.
Be prepared for early mornings, especially in Etosha.
Remember to take out your travel insurance beforehand.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

This Taste of Namibia Adventure Tour is a compelling choice if you’re looking for a well-rounded, immersive safari combined with memorable landscapes and seaside charm. It’s especially suited for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, and those wanting a taste of Namibia’s diverse scenery without the hassle of planning each leg.

The tour’s focus on authentic wildlife encounters, such as cheetah and leopard tracking, alongside stunning natural landmarks, makes it ideal for travelers who thrive on discovery. The inclusive nature of most meals, park fees, and accommodations means you can relax and focus on the experience.

While the schedule is busy and involves significant travel, the payoff is a comprehensive Namibia adventure that covers the highlights with expert guidance. It’s not for those seeking a slow-paced holiday—this is a lively, action-packed exploration, perfect for adventurers eager to see Namibia’s wild side.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers 7 nights’ accommodation, guided tours, vehicle and fuel costs, park entry fees, most meals, and airport transfers.

Are activities like leopard tracking optional?
Yes, leopard tracking at Okonjima is an optional activity, usually at an additional cost.

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
Visa requirements are not specified here; travelers should check Namibia’s entry policies based on their nationality.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the itinerary involves early mornings, long drives, and some activities unsuitable for very young children.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect some walking, especially climbing dunes and game viewing, but guides can advise on accessible options if needed.

What should I pack for Namibia?
Comfortable walking shoes, clothing for hot days and cool nights, camera, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a flashlight.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering some flexibility in planning.

What is the best time to do this tour?
While not specified here, Namibia’s dry season (May to October) is ideal for safaris, with clear skies and good wildlife viewing.

Is insurance necessary?
Yes, travelers should take out their own travel insurance before visiting Namibia.