Etosha Express Safari

A short and intense adventure through Namibia’s most iconic landscapes and experiences. Come up close with majestic wildlife in Etosha National Park where lions, elephants, and rhinos roam free. Discover the dramatic scenery of Damaraland with its towering granite formations and expansive skies, and connect with the Himba, Herero, and Damara communities along the way, gaining insight into their rich traditions. Be amazed by the beautiful sighting of the renowned Skeleton Coast and explore the charming town of Swakopmund. This express safari offers the perfect dose of wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and cultural encounters – all in one amazing experience!

From $850 USD

Rates vary due to seasons and availability - request a quote for precise, favorable pricing and tailored travel planning.

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Quiver trees in Namibia
Elephant and antelopes in the african savanah
Shipwreck at the skeleton coast
sand dunes in the african desert

HIGHLIGHTS

Spot diverse wildlife at Etosha National Park’s waterholes

See the vast “Great White Space” mineral pan

Explore Damaraland’s stunning landscapes, elephants and rhinos

Meet local tribes and experience their culture

Visit the Skeleton Coast and relax in Swakopmund

Departing from Windhoek every Tuesday and Thursday, this 3-day and 2-night accommodated adventure provides a perfect opportunity to quickly experience some of Namibia’s most remarkable highlights.

 

Explore the wildlife wonderland of Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park offers an incredible wildlife experience, where the animals often come right up to you as you visit the park’s many waterholes. You’ll see a wide range of creatures, from majestic predators like lions and leopards to gentle giants like elephants and giraffes. The park is also home to black rhinos, elands, and an astonishing variety of birds. The vast mineral pan, known as “The Great White Space,” spans 22,000 square kilometers and is so vast that it’s visible from space.

 

Experience the Big Sky in Damaraland

Damaraland is a place of breathtaking beauty, where the “Big Sky” stretch endlessly above towering pink granite koppies. This unique region, with its stunning landscapes of mountains, grasslands, and riverbeds, is a sanctuary for desert elephants and desert rhinos. Every season brings a new layer of beauty to this land. As you travel through Damaraland, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the Himba, Herero, and Damara people, who often greet visitors in traditional dresses at roadside stalls offering handmade crafts.

 

Discover the shores and towns of the Skeleton Coast

The journey along the wild Skeleton Coast leads to the charming town of Swakopmund. This coastal town is famed for its adrenaline-pumping activities but also offers plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Swakopmund is the perfect place to recharge after enjoying yourself in Namibia’s dramatic landscapes, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation that is truly unique.

If you want more out of Namibia, our Etosha & Swakopmund Safari Adventure adds another day of adventure to the itinerary, or why not our even richer Canyons, Dunes & Wildlife, that will take you to Fish River Canyon – the second largest canyon in the world! With World Adventure Tours, you can craft your adventure to perfection, contact us if you want to tailor your trip to suit your needs and wishes! 

DOWNLOAD TRAVEL PLAN AS PDF

Day 1

*TUESDAY/THURSDAY* WINDHOEK – ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK (500KM) | HALALI CAMP / OKAUKUEJO CAMP OR SIMILAR

You will be collected from your accommodation within the Windhoek city limits at 07:00 and transferred to Chameleon Headquarters for a short pre-departure meeting.

Heading north from Windhoek, we stop briefly at the small town of Otjiwarongo to gather some last-minute supplies before continuing on to Etosha, and we enjoy a light lunch pack whilst “on the move”. We enter Etosha National Park and game drive our way to our overnight accommodation.

Etosha is huge, just over 22,000 square km and is home to 114 species of mammal, 350 species of bird, 110 species of reptile, uncountable numbers of insects and, somewhat bizarrely, one species of fish. There are good chances of spotting many of these different creatures as we tour through the park, stopping at the various waterholes along the way.
All visitors must be in camp by sunset, and we aim to arrive at our lodge before sunset and with time to settle into our rooms, with en-suite bathroom and tea/coffee facilities. Dinner is at the camp restaurant tonight.

The ‘game show’ in Etosha doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. All the Etosha camps have floodlit waterholes for extra game viewing opportunities. The Halali waterhole is located within walking distance from our accommodation. A visit, or two, is highly recommended this evening as we can expect many species to visit during the night and this waterhole is known to be very popular with elephants and the critically endangered black rhino.

Accommodation: Twin share, en-suite bathroom
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2

*WEDNESDAY/FRIDAY* ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK – TALENI (70KM) | ETOSHA VILLAGE / ETOSHA SAFARI LODGE / OKATULA LODGE OR SIMILAR

We have the whole day to explore Etosha, and we want to make the most of it. The park gates open at sunrise, and we aim to be on our way just as the sun breaches the horizon. Early morning is usually a productive time for game viewing, and first thing in the morning is a good time to catch big cats returning from the hunt.

We return to camp for breakfast and to load our vehicle before heading out into the park once again searching for big game. Etosha is a desert landscape and water is the most scarce natural resource. There are, however, numerous waterholes here, both natural and man-made, and our game-driving technique is to take in as many of these as possible. Here we hope that the game will come to us as the thirsty animals attend for a much-needed drink.
On our way today, we will stop to have a closer look at the Etosha Pan. The name Etosha translates as ‘great white space’ but this name does not do justice to the immensity of the pan. Over 4,700 square km of dazzling white mineral pan, so big that it can be seen from space.

We exit Etosha at the Anderson gate close to sunset, and it is just a short drive to our accommodation in a comfortable, spacious twin share room with modern en-suite bathroom facilities. An ideal space to sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. A fantastic dinner tonight.

Accommodation: Twin share, en-suite bathroom
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

*THURSDAY/SATURDAY* ETOSHA – SWAKOPMUND (510KM) 

After breakfast, we aim to be on the road by 07:30 today. We are heading for the Skeleton Coast and we are taking the scenic route. We first head south on the main road, passing the small town of Outjo, then onwards towards the west and picking up the gravel road as we travel through an area known as Damaraland.

Damaraland is famed for its scenery, mountains, open grasslands, tall koppies, (small hills), of round pink granite boulders, wide open spaces and big sky. We also have a chance to meet some of the locals as there are several places along our road today where we can find informal shops selling locally made, handcrafted souvenirs. Represented here we usually find ladies from the Himba, Herero and Damara tribes and most often they are wearing their traditional dress. Here we can interact with some of the colourful local characters who live in this harsh environment. Making a small purchase here is a good way to inject some cash directly into the local economy.

We continue on through the beautiful landscape, making a stop for a light picnic lunch, under the shadow of Namibia’s highest mountain, the Brandberg. Rising from the desert floor, this giant monolith is 2,573 m above sea level and is formed of pink-tinged granite.

We continue our journey west and soon arrive at the coast and the chilly Atlantic Ocean. The whole coastline of Namibia is known as the Skeleton Coast, and it is easy to see why this barren seaboard is so named, with its forbidding mountains and barren beaches. The wind, the waves and the huge fog banks all conspire to push ships onto the beach. The countless mariners that, in olden times, found themselves shipwrecked here faced the stark prospect of no fresh water, no food, no rescue and a slow death by exposure. Their Shipmates who went down with their ship were thought to be the lucky ones.
Heading south on the coast road, our next stop is a more recent shipwreck. 15 km south of the small town of Henties Bay, a fishing trawler, The Zeila, was beached in 2008. She was an old vessel that had been sold for scrap and was under tow at the time. The cable snapped and, like so many vessels before her, she was caught in the swell and currents and ended up on the beach. She lays quite close to the shore and is well-positioned for photos.

Swakopmund was founded by Captain Kurt von François of the imperial colonial army of the German Empire in 1892. (He also founded Windhoek in 1890). It is an interesting town to say the least, bounded to the north, the east and the south by the mighty dunes of the Namib Desert and to the west by the Atlantic Ocean. There are still many examples of colonial German architecture to be seen, and the German language is still widely used.

You will be dropped off at your accommodation anywhere within the Swakopmund city limits. Swakopmund boasts some truly excellent restaurants, and again, your guide will be able to help you with recommendations and bookings.

Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Discover the best of Namibia

This trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best of Namibia’s wildlife, landscapes, and culture.

  • Get up close with wildlife animals such as lions, elephants, rhinos, and more in Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s best wildlife destinations.
  • Witness some of the most breathtaking scenery in Namibia, from the vast salt pan of Etosha to the towering granite formations of Damaraland and the rugged Skeleton Coast,
  • Meet the Himba, Herero, and Damara tribes and gain a deeper understanding of Namibia’s rich cultural heritage through personal interactions and experiences.

 

An Unforgettable Namibian Adventure

This trip is a deep dive into the heart of Namibia’s natural and cultural treasures. You’ll have the chance to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat, all within the dramatic and diverse landscapes that Namibia is famous for. Whether you’re gazing over the vast expanse of Etosha’s salt pan, wandering among the rock formations of Damaraland, or soaking in the stunning beauty of the Skeleton Coast, every moment of this trip is designed to leave a lasting impression. Coupled with meaningful cultural encounters with local communities, this adventure is perfect for those who seek a blend of nature, wildlife, and authentic cultural experiences.

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Windhoek, NA
12:15 pm, October 7, 2024
temperature icon 24°C
overcast clouds
Humidity 20 %
Pressure 1015 mb
Wind 11 mph
Wind Gust: 13 mph
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 6:26 am
Sunset: 6:52 pm

Is Namibia a good family holiday destination?

Namibia is a fantastic destination for families, offering limitless adventure opportunities and great value for money. Many lodges and camps will only accept children 12 years and over, but some are specific family accommodations that cater to your younger children. We can advise you on the best places to stay. Please get in touch with us at sales@worldadventuretours.com

Which language can I communicate with in Namibia?

The official language in Namibia is English, so communication should not be a problem. German and Afrikaans are widely spoken as well.

Is it easy to navigate Namibia while on safari?

Yes, The road network is well maintained and very well signposted, all through the parks.

Do I need a visa to visit Namibia?

Travel documents required differ based on your citizenship, so please check your visa needs ahead of time. Please get in touch with us at sales@worldadventuretours.com.

What kind of accommodation is provided in Namibia while on safari?

Lodges and camps are available for your stay during your holiday in Namibia. We have selected the best comfortable accommodations that give you an incredible Namibian experience.

Can I bring along a power adapter?

Namibia has type D or M power sockets so you will need an adapter for this socket. Most global power adapters do not include an adapter for these types of sockets. If you have forgotten yours, let your guide know, and they will do their best to organize a power adapter for you.

Do we need a Malaria vaccine during our visit to Namibia?

Malaria is present in some parts of Namibia, especially in the northern regions such as Caprivi, Kavango, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, and Zambezi. The risk of malaria transmission varies throughout the year and depends on a number of factors, such as rainfall patterns, temperature, altitude, and location. The highest risk of malaria transmission in Namibia occurs during the rainy season, which typically runs from November to April. During this time, there may be an increased risk of mosquito bites, especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Suppose you are planning to travel to Namibia, especially to the northern regions during the rainy season. In that case, it is recommended that you take appropriate precautions to prevent malaria, such as taking anti-malaria medication as prescribed by a doctor, using insect repellent, and wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants. It’s also a good idea to sleep under mosquito nets and to avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

What should I wear on my Namibian safari trip?

The key is to dress in layers, wear comfortable and practical clothing, and protect yourself from the sun and potential insect bites. When going on a safari trip in Namibia, it’s important to wear comfortable and practical clothing that will protect you from the sun, wind, and potential insect bites.

  • Light, breathable clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton or linen. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are also recommended to protect you from the sun and insect bites.
  • Closed-toe shoes: Comfortable and sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots are essential for walking safaris and hiking in rocky terrain.
  • Hat and sunglasses: Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the strong sun.
  • Jacket or fleece: Evenings and early mornings can be chilly, so pack a warm jacket or fleece to layer over your clothing.
  • Neutral colors: It’s best to wear neutral-colored clothing, such as khaki, beige, or brown, to blend in with the natural surroundings and avoid attracting unnecessary attention from wildlife.
  • Swimwear: If your safari includes visiting a lodge with a pool, pack your swimwear.
  • Rain gear: Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho to keep you dry if you’re traveling during the rainy season.

When is the best time to visit Namibia?

The dry season is between May to October. This is the peak tourist season in Namibia, as it offers cooler and drier weather, making it the best time for game viewing and outdoor activities. The landscapes are also more dramatic during this time, with clear blue skies and sparse vegetation, making spotting wildlife easier. However, accommodation and activities can be more expensive and may need to be booked in advance. The wet season is between November to April. This is the low tourist season in Namibia, as it offers hotter and more humid weather, and some of the roads and national parks may be inaccessible due to flooding. However, the landscapes are more vibrant and green, and the birdlife is abundant during this time. Accommodation and activities may be cheaper during this season, but it’s important to note that some lodges and camps may be closed during the wet season.

What is the tipping etiquette for safari guides and mountain crews on trips like this?

Tipping is highly appreciated at the end of safari/mountain climb. The size of tips will vary depending on the length and complexity of the trip, the number of staff on the trip and the number of clients on the trip. Generally, groups like to meet together before the end of the trek to discuss how much they would like to tip each staff member based on their individual trek experience. You should prepare an envelope after your trek for your tip money at the Hotel. You can use US dollars, Euros, TZ Shillings or a combination of these. Please ask the Safari/Climbing coordinator at the Hotel for advice.

RECOMMENDED TIP:

Mountain Climbs: $25-50 USD per Day per Climber to be shared between guides, chefs and porters.

Safaris: Driver/Guide: $35-50 USD per Day per Car. If it is a camping safari there will be a tip for the cook $10 USD per Day.‌

THESE ARE JUST GUIDELINES AND TIPS CAN BE GIVEN TO SAFARI STAFF/MOUNTAIN CREW ACCORDING TO SERVICES PROVIDED.

two red-billed hornbill birds
a flock of zebras

Accommodation

Halali Resort & Campsite

Located in Etosha National Park, this camp offers a variety of accommodations suitable for all types of travelers including 2 Family Chalets, 20 Bush Chalets where the larger units have a kitchen and lounge area, and 39 Double Rooms – all featuring en-suite bathrooms.

Enjoy the largest pool in the park and the nearby waterholes for excellent wildlife spotting. This is the ideal base for exploring Etosha.

Okuakejo Camp

Renowned for its flood-lit waterhole where you can observe a variety of wildlife up-close, this resort offers a range of accommodations from Waterhole Chalets with patios or balconies for wildlife viewing, spacious Bush Chalets with lounges, and comfortable Double Rooms with essential amenities.

Enjoy a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, a shop, a kiosk, and camping facilities.

Etosha Safari Lodge

Nestled in a vast mopane woodland, just 10 km from Etosha National Park’s central entrance, this lodge offers spacious rooms with private verandas, a large deck and dining area from which you can watch the sunset and gaze at the star sprinkled skies, and amazing views.

Here you can relax by the pool, enjoy quality food and wine, and take part in game drives led by knowledgeable guides providing the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Okutala Etosha Lodge

This lodge, a privately owned game reserve spanning 24,000 hectares in Namibia, focuses on rehabilitating orphaned wildlife and offering guests a unique opportunity to observe animals up close.

Enjoy comfortable accommodations with air conditioning, family-friendly amenities, and remarkable views. Relax by the pool, dine on the open deck overlooking the waterhole, and start your days with a complimentary breakfast.

Etosha Village

An affordable yet luxurious gateway to Etosha National Park, offering 55 air-conditioned accommodation units with modern amenities, camping facilities, dining areas, a pool, a bar and a utility and curio shop.

Enjoy activities as guided game drives in Etosha, walking tours, sundowner driver, stargazing sessions and a special Boma Dinner – perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

Included in the price:

  • Transport in a custom-built safari vehicle with pop up roof & USB charging capabilities & air-conditioning
  • Services of a professional English-speaking guide
  • 2 nights’ accommodation in twin share rooms with en-suite bathrooms as above
  • Meals as above (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • National park entry fees (2 days Etosha)
  • Game drives as above in a Chameleon Safaris vehicle
  • Pick up within Windhoek city limits and drop off within Swakopmund city limits
  • Tap Water
  • Shared airport shuttle to and from the Windhoek International Airport

Price does not cover:

  • International or Domestic flights
  • Visas
  • Health and Travel Insurance are excluded, but we highly recommend getting insurance from your home country before your trip.
  • Snacks between meals
  • Alcoholic and Non Alcoholic Drinks during the Safari
  • Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters – Find guidelines in the FAQ

Rest assured, we’re here to assist with anything not covered in the price.
Your convenience is our priority.

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  • Without any obligation to book
  • Your request will be sent directly to the operator