Plan Your Trip
WHERE TO START
How to create your perfect Namibian tour.
Choosing the right trip is not just about deciding where to go. Budget, time frame, season, interests and travel style all affect what will work best.
Use this section to think through the main choices that shape your trip before deciding which style of travel suits you best.
Budget
SINGLE TRAVELLER?
Both in terms of budget and local expertise, a scheduled safari may be your best option.
OFF SEASON
Most lodges increase their rates for high season, which normally runs from July to the end of October. Consider travelling outside these months.
CAMPING
Namibia has some amazing, remote camping locations and is a lot kinder to your wallet, but remember that to make it worth the cost of a fully equipped vehicle, you normally have to include a third of your trip at campsites.
Time Frame
Distances
Travelling around Namibia takes a lot longer than you might expect – some road conditions require you to drive slowly, there are photo opportunities aplenty and distances are substantial. It is important to balance the amount of driving with time for relaxation and exploration. Sometimes less is more!
Once in a Lifetime
Flights to Southern Africa are a major part of the cost, so it’s worth making the journey count. If this may be your only trip to the region, adding a few extra days can make the difference between rushing through highlights and experiencing them properly.
Long Haul Flight
It can be tempting to land in the morning and head straight out, but delays, slow baggage or lost luggage can quickly turn that first day into a stressful one. For self-drive trips, vehicle handover and stocking up for the journey also take time. Build in enough space so the trip starts calmly, not in a rush.
Season
Winter months
Cooler, dry months with excellent wildlife viewing. Days are pleasantly warm but nights can be very cold. Fine for hardy campers but others may want a few more creature comforts.
If you want to travel in August, bookings are difficult – better to book a year in advance.
Summer Months
Summer can offer cheaper rates, fewer tourists and great birdwatching, but do not underestimate the intense heat, especially during El Niño conditions when the country receives below average rainfall. However, during good rains, the landscape is transformed and provides magical photo opportunities and happy locals.
Public Holidays
Popular lodges and campsites can fill up during the more popular holiday periods.
In December, Namibians flock to the coast to escape the heat and enjoy Christmas by the sea.
The month of May also sees numerous public holidays which may make popular campsites harder to book.
Interest
Wildlife
Drier months offer easier game-viewing, especially in Etosha when animals have to come to waterholes to drink.
Birding
September to April is considered the best time to visit for birdwatching due to returning migrants and most species displaying their breeding plumage.
Hiking
Winter months normally provide excellent hiking conditions – clear skies, pleasantly warm days and cool nights.
Stargazing
Namibia is one of the world’s premier stargazing destinations due to zero light pollution and numerous cloudless nights. May to July are ideal for astrology enthusiasts.
Travel Style
First African Safari?
Consider a private guided safari – everything tailored to your exact wishes.
Solo Travel
Guided travel removes much of the pressure of long distance driving, provides local knowledge and the chance to connect with other travellers.
Flexibility
Self-drive travel can be tailored to your specific requirements – destinations, interests, budget and pace. However, it does require confidence with distances, road conditions and route planning. It is also a lot more tiring due to the long distances and the challenging environment.