20 Days Encyclopedia of Africa | Self Drive lodge

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20 Days Encyclopedia of Africa | Self Drive lodge

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Mon
16 Mar
Tue
17 Mar
Wed
18 Mar
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SHARING | Price Per Person

Duration: 20 days
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Free cancellation
TWO or More Traveler Travelling TOGETHER.
Pickup included

From

NZD 20,252

SOLO

Duration: 20 days
Instant confirmation
Free cancellation
Traveler Travelling ALONE. PRIVATE SOLO TOUR
Pickup included

From

NZD 27,255

Highlights

Ultimate Southern Africa Adventure - A Symphony of Wonders.
Welcome to the ultimate adventure through Southern Africa, a journey that promises a symphony of natural wonders, rich cultural encounters, and thrilling wildlife experiences. From the vast landscapes of Namibia's deserts to the captivating beauty of Victoria Falls, prepare to be enchanted by the diverse tapestry of this incredible region.
Namib Desert - Ancient Beauty; Swakopmund - Coastal Charm; Etosha National Park - Wildlife Spectacle; Mokoro Boat Safari in Mahango and Chobe; Victoria Falls - Nature's Majesty.


Contact us now to begin your Southern Africa adventure - a journey that promises a symphony of unforgettable experiences and soul-stirring moments.
Unravel the wonders of Southern Africa - a quest into the heart of nature's marvels!

Itinerary

Windhoek - Kalahari | Afternoon Game Drive

  • Mariental

    3 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    Departing from Windhoek, you travel south into the wide open landscapes of southern Namibia, gradually leaving the capital behind as the scenery transitions into the distinctive environment of the Kalahari Desert. The route passes through rural settlements and expansive plains before revealing the iconic red sands and camelthorn-dotted terrain that define this region. The drive offers a relaxed introduction to Namibia’s sense of space and natural diversity. Upon arrival at your accommodation in the Kalahari, take time to settle in before heading out on an afternoon game drive. This first safari experience introduces the unique desert-adapted wildlife of the region, with opportunities to encounter species such as oryx, springbok, and giraffe. As the sun lowers, the warm light enhances the deep reds and golden tones of the dunes, creating a calm and memorable start to your journey.
  • Accommodations
    Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge or Similar to the subject.
    Food And Drinks
    Dinner
    Breakfast
Kalahari Desert | Bushman Walk and Afternoon Game Drive

  • Mariental

    2 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    After an early breakfast, set out on a Bushman walk guided by local San people. This experience offers a window into their traditional lifestyle, survival techniques, and ancestral knowledge of the land. As you move through the desert, learn about edible plants, observe animal tracks, and discover how the San have adapted to life in this environment over countless generations. Their stories and demonstrations provide a meaningful connection to one of the world’s oldest cultures. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive through the vast red dunes and open plains of the Kalahari. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as oryx, springbok, giraffes. Your guide will share insights into animal behavior and the delicate balance that sustains life in this semi-arid region. The shifting light of the late afternoon creates beautiful photographic moments as the landscape glows in soft golden tones.
  • Accommodations
    Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Desert Kalahari - Fish River Canyon | Quiver Tree Forest & Fish River Canyon

  • Quivertree Forest and Giant's Playground

    5 minsAdmission Ticket Not Included
    After breakfast, depart for a morning visit to the Quiver Tree Forest, a remarkable landscape filled with towering aloe trees found only in southern Africa. Walk among these sculptural giants and learn about their botanical importance, local folklore, and traditional uses by communities who have lived in the region for generations. The unusual shapes and warm desert light make this an excellent place for photography and a beautiful introduction to Namibia’s unique plant life. In the afternoon, continue your journey toward the Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world. Arrive in time to witness the canyon at sunset, when the rugged cliffs and deep chasms glow in vivid shades of gold and red. This peaceful moment offers an inspiring perspective on the scale and beauty of Namibia’s landscapes and provides an ideal opportunity for memorable photographs.
  • Accommodations
    Canyon Village Gondwana Collection or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Fish River Canyon - Lüderitz | Sunrise Views & Wild Horses

  • Fish River Region

    Begin your morning early to experience the unforgettable sunrise over Fish River Canyon. As the first light spreads across the vast cliffs and rugged formations, the canyon reveals striking colours and textures, offering a serene and inspiring start to the day. After breakfast, begin your journey toward Lüderitz. Along the way, stop at the Garub viewpoint to observe the famous Namib Desert Wild Horses. These free-roaming horses are a remarkable sight in the stark desert surroundings, often gathering near the water point where they can be quietly observed and photographed. Continue your drive to Lüderitz, where the Atlantic coastline meets sweeping desert landscapes. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your own pace.
  • Accommodations
    Luderitz Nest Hotel or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Lüderitz - Sossusvlei | Kolmanskop & Namib Wild Horses

  • Kolmanskop

    After breakfast in Lüderitz, begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Kolmanskop Ghost Town, once a flourishing diamond mining settlement and now an atmospheric reminder of Namibia’s past. Wander through the abandoned, sand-filled buildings as your guide explains the rise and decline of the diamond era, offering fascinating insights and excellent photography opportunities in this surreal desert setting. Continue your journey with a stop to view the wild horses of the Namib Desert, known for their resilience and unique adaptation to the harsh environment. Watching these free-roaming horses against the stark desert backdrop is a memorable and moving experience.

  • Kolmanskop Ghost Town

    1 hoursAdmission Ticket Not Included
    After the visit, depart toward Sossusvlei, travelling through dramatic desert landscapes, red dunes, and dry riverbeds. Keep an eye out for oryx, springbok, and other desert wildlife as you move deeper into the Namib. Arrive at your accommodation in the late afternoon and take time to relax while enjoying the vast and peaceful surroundings of the desert.
  • Accommodations
    Elegant Desert Lodge or Similar
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Deadvlei | Sossusvlei | Dune 40–45 | Sesriem Canyon

  • Deadvlei

    2 hoursAdmission Ticket Not Included
    Wake up early to experience the sunrise over the Namib Desert, when the first light of the day transforms the dunes into a palette of deep reds and warm golden tones. After breakfast, continue toward the Sossusvlei area to explore some of the region’s most iconic dune formations, including Dune 45 and the surrounding dune belt. Those who wish may climb one of the dunes for sweeping views across the desert, where the vastness of the landscape becomes truly evident. Continue onward to Deadvlei, a striking white clay pan surrounded by towering dunes. The ancient, fossilized trees scattered across the pan create a surreal and unforgettable scene, offering exceptional opportunities for photography and quiet appreciation of this unique environment.

  • Sesriem Canyon

    30 minsAdmission Ticket Not Included
    Afterward, visit Sesriem Canyon, a narrow gorge formed by thousands of years of erosion by the Tsauchab River. A short walk into the canyon reveals layered rock formations and cool, shaded passageways that highlight the geological history of the region.
  • Accommodations
    The Elegant Desert Lodge or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Sossusvlei - Swakopmund | Scenic Desert Transfer

  • Solitaire

    5 minsAdmission Ticket Free
    Swakopmund along one of Namibia’s most scenic routes. The journey passes through the small desert settlement of Solitaire, known for its rustic character, quiet atmosphere, and well-loved bakery. This stop provides an ideal moment for refreshments, photographs, and appreciation of the surrounding desert solitude. Continue across the Tropic of Capricorn, an iconic geographic marker signalling the transition into Namibia’s subtropical zone. A brief pause here offers a memorable photo opportunity as well as sweeping views of the wide-open desert plains.

  • Tropic of Capricorn Sign

    1 hoursAdmission Ticket Not Included
    The route then winds through the dramatic Gaub Pass and Kuiseb Pass, where layered rock formations and rugged terrain create some of the country’s most striking scenery. Along the way, there may be chances to observe oryx, springbok, and other desert-adapted wildlife moving across the plains. Each pass presents scenic viewpoints that highlight the contrasting colors and textures of the Namib Desert.
  • Accommodations
    Bay View Resort or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
Swakopmund | Walvis Bay Cruise and Leisure

  • Walvis Bay Waterfront

    2 hoursAdmission Ticket Not Included
    Start the day with a delicious breakfast before heading to Walvis Bay for a memorable morning boat cruise. Glide across the calm waters of the bay, observing abundant marine life, including playful dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds. The cruise offers excellent opportunities for photography and a chance to enjoy the spectacular coastal scenery from a unique perspective. After the cruise, return to Swakopmund for a free afternoon to relax and enjoy the town at your own pace. Stroll along the beach, explore local shops, or simply unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of your Namibia adventure. For those seeking extra excitement, a variety of optional activities is available. Experience the thrill of quad biking across desert dunes, explore the stunning landscapes of Sandwich Harbour, or choose from other local adventures designed to make your final day unforgettable.
  • Accommodations
    Bay View Resort or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
Swakopmund - Damaraland | Desert Landscapes and Rock Art

  • Twyfelfontein

    4 hoursAdmission Ticket Not Included
    After breakfast, depart Swakopmund and travel north toward the rugged and captivating landscapes of Damaraland. The journey reveals ever-changing scenery, from open plains to rocky outcrops and ancient desert formations. Along the way, watch for wildlife adapted to this arid environment, including desert-adapted elephants, oryx, and springbok moving gracefully across the terrain.

  • Damaraland

    Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and prepare for an afternoon visit to Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable rock engravings. Wander among the ancient carvings depicting animals, human figures, and symbolic patterns, created by the San people thousands of years ago. Your guide will provide insights into the cultural and historical significance of this extraordinary site, offering a unique window into Namibia’s prehistoric heritage. After the visit, return to your accommodation to relax and enjoy dinner, reflecting on the striking landscapes and rich cultural legacy that make Damaraland so remarkable.
  • Accommodations
    Twyfelfontein Country Lodge or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Damaraland - Etosha | Himba Visit and Etosha Game Drive

  • Etosha National Park

    3 hoursAdmission Ticket Not Included
    After breakfast in Damaraland, begin the day with a visit to a Himba village. Meet the Himba people, one of Namibia’s most iconic indigenous groups, and gain insight into their traditional way of life, customs, and distinctive hairstyles and body adornments. Your guide will explain the cultural significance of their practices and daily routines, offering a unique and respectful perspective on this fascinating community. Following the cultural experience, continue your journey to Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive across the park’s vast salt pans, woodlands, and savannahs. Keep an eye out for elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species as they move through this iconic landscape. The afternoon light creates exceptional photographic opportunities, with the Etosha plains bathed in warm golden hues as the sun begins to set.
  • Accommodations
    Toshari Lodge or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Etosha National Park | Full-Day Safari

  • Etosha National Park

    2 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    After an early breakfast, set out for a full-day safari across Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Your journey takes you through a rich variety of landscapes that define the park, including the vast shimmering salt pan, open savannahs stretching into the horizon, and patches of mopane woodland where wildlife often hides in the shade. The day unfolds at a relaxed pace, giving you the time to appreciate each sighting and enjoy the natural rhythm of the bush.

  • Etosha Pan

    Throughout the day, you may encounter elephants moving gracefully between waterholes, lions resting after a night of activity, giraffes feeding on acacia trees, zebras crossing the plains in tight family groups, and many species of antelope grazing in the golden light. Your guide shares valuable insights into their behaviors, ecological roles, and the challenges of conservation in such a dynamic environment. Waterholes become focal points for life, offering close and unforgettable moments as animals gather to drink and interact. The afternoon continues with more exploration, ensuring a well-rounded discovery of Etosha’s ecosystems and wildlife.
  • Accommodations
    Toshari Lodge or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Okaukuejo - Namutoni | Full-Day Safari

  • Etosha National Park

    3 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    Today is dedicated to a full-day safari across Etosha National Park as you travel from Okaukuejo to Namutoni. Departing in the morning, the route takes you through the heart of the park, offering extensive game viewing opportunities along the way. The vast Etosha Pan dominates the landscape, contrasting with open grasslands, saline flats, and scattered waterholes that attract a wide variety of wildlife. Throughout the day, enjoy game viewing at your own pace, with time to stop at key waterholes where animals often gather. Etosha is renowned for its concentrations of elephant, giraffe, zebra, springbok, and numerous predators, making each stop an opportunity for rewarding sightings. By late afternoon, arrive in the eastern section of the park and continue to Namutoni, where you settle into your accommodation and reflect on a day rich in wildlife encounters.
  • Accommodations
    Etosha Namutoni Resort or Similar to the subject.
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Namutoni | Game Drive in Etosha National Park

  • Etosha National Park

    2 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    After breakfast, depart for the eastern side of Etosha National Park and make your way toward Namutoni, an area known for its rich wildlife and the historic German fort that stands as a landmark in this region. The landscapes gradually open into broad savannahs, scattered woodlands, and white salt pans that create striking contrasts and excellent wildlife visibility. As you enter the area, the adventure begins immediately, with the chance to spot animals moving across the open plains.

  • Namutoni

    30 minsAdmission Ticket Free
    Spend the day on a game drive around Namutoni’s well-known waterholes and wildlife-rich routes. Elephants may be seen moving in steady lines toward water, lions often rest near the edges of the pans, and giraffes browse quietly on tall acacia trees. Herds of zebras and various antelope species add movement and color to the landscape. Your guide shares valuable insights into animal behavior, the ecological balance of the park, and ongoing conservation initiatives that protect Etosha’s unique ecosystems. Waterholes become natural theatres of life, offering excellent opportunities for photography and peaceful wildlife observation.
  • Accommodations
    Namutoni Resort Lodge or Similar to the subject
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Namutoni - Rundu | Okavango River Boat Cruise

  • Rundu

    5 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    After breakfast, depart from your previous location and continue north toward Rundu, a town situated along the banks of the Okavango River. The drive offers changing landscapes, from open plains to riverine forests, providing a glimpse of Namibia’s diverse natural scenery and occasional wildlife sightings along the way. Upon arrival in Rundu, settle into your accommodation and take a moment to relax. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the Okavango River. Glide along the calm waters while observing the lush riverside vegetation and abundant birdlife. The gentle current and serene atmosphere provide the perfect introduction to this unique region, offering opportunities for photography and quiet reflection on the natural beauty surrounding you.
  • Accommodations
    Hakusembe River Lodge or Similar to the subject.
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Rundu - Divundu | Okavango Delta Sunset Cruise

  • Divundu

    2 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    After breakfast in Rundu, depart for Divundu, a scenic area on the edge of the Okavango Delta. The drive passes through lush riverine landscapes, small villages, and areas rich in birdlife, offering a gradual and picturesque introduction to the delta region. In the afternoon, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Okavango Delta. Glide quietly along the waterways in a traditional boat while observing hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. As the sun casts a warm golden light over the floodplains, take in the peaceful atmosphere, capture photographs, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this remarkable ecosystem. Return to your accommodation in Divundu for dinner and a serene evening under the African sky.
  • Accommodations
    Shametu River lodge or Similar to the subject.
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Full-Day Game Drive in Mahango National Park

  • Bwabwata National Park

    After an early breakfast, embark on a full-day game drive in Mahango National Park, located in the northeastern corner of Namibia. The park’s floodplains, riverine forests, and woodlands provide habitats for elephants, hippos, buffalo, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species. Birdlife is abundant, making this a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Your experienced guide will share insights into the park’s unique ecosystem, animal behavior, and ongoing conservation efforts. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush. The day offers ample opportunities for photography, wildlife spotting, and fully immersing yourself in the beauty of the Okavango region.
  • Accommodations
    Shametu River lodge or Similar to the subject.
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Mahango - Chobe | Free Afternoon

  • Kasane

    5 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    Departing from the Mahango area, you travel eastward toward Chobe, crossing from Namibia into Botswana. The journey follows the fertile river landscapes of the Zambezi and Chobe regions, where vegetation becomes noticeably greener and wildlife sightings may occur along the route. This transition from the open floodplains of Mahango to the riverine forests of Chobe highlights the ecological diversity of this part of southern Africa. Upon arrival in Chobe, check in at your accommodation and enjoy a free afternoon at leisure. This is an ideal time to relax after the drive, take in views of the surrounding landscape, or explore the area at your own pace. The slower pace of the afternoon allows you to unwind and prepare for the wildlife experiences that await in Chobe National Park.
  • Accommodations
    River View Lodge or Similar to the subject.
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Chobe National Park | Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Cruise

  • Chobe National Park

    Start your day early as the bush slowly awakens with the first golden light. Embark on a morning game drive through the vast wilderness of Chobe National Park, where the crisp air carries the sounds of wildlife greeting the new day. Watch elephants moving across the plains, observe lions resting after a night of activity, and spot a wide variety of bird species perched among the trees. Every moment offers a chance to witness the natural rhythm of this remarkable ecosystem. After lunch and a short rest at your accommodation, continue the adventure with an afternoon boat cruise along the Chobe River. As the sun begins to set, the water reflects shades of gold and amber, creating one of the most captivating scenes in Botswana. Hippos surface in the shallows, crocodiles bask along the riverbanks, and elephants gather for their evening drink. The calm drift of the boat provides the perfect ending to a day filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters.
  • Accommodations
    River View Lodge or Similar to the subject.
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
    Dinner
Chobe - Victoria Falls | Visit of the Falls

  • Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls National Park

    1 hoursAdmission Ticket Not Included
    After breakfast, depart Chobe and drive toward Victoria Falls, crossing the border into Zimbabwe. The journey takes you through the scenic landscapes of northern Botswana and the border region, offering glimpses of riverine vegetation and occasional wildlife along the way. Upon arrival in Victoria Falls, check into your accommodation and prepare for one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Spend the afternoon exploring Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya – “The Smoke That Thunders.” Walk along the network of trails and viewpoints that offer spectacular perspectives of the cascading waters, surrounded by lush rainforest nourished by the constant spray. The thunderous roar, misty rainbows, and sheer power of the falls create an unforgettable experience and a perfect opportunity for photography.
  • Accommodations
    A'Zambezi River Lodge- RTG or Similar to the subject.
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast
Victoria Falls | Departure

  • Prinlin Safari Travel & Tours

    30 minsAdmission Ticket Not Included
    After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at your accommodation, taking the time to savor the final moments of your journey. Later, you are transferred to Victoria Falls Airport for your onward flight. Use this time to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past days from thrilling wildlife encounters in Botswana’s national parks and the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta to the awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria Falls. This marks the conclusion of your unforgettable adventure, leaving you with lasting memories, stunning photographs, and stories to share for years to come.
  • Accommodations
    NONE
    Food And Drinks
    Breakfast

What's included

INCLUDED

Airport transfers
Activities as stated in the itinerary
24/7 assistance during the trip
Dinner (16)
Road map or marked itinerary
Air-conditioned vehicle
Breakfast (20)
Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa VAT and Tourism Levy
One Local Sim Card
First-aid kit
Accommodations as stated in the itinerary – Based on availability
Meals as stated in the itinerary
Rental Vehicle with all Risk Insurance (according to Rental Terms and Conditions)
Meet-and-greet service with briefing on the itinerary and vehicle

NOT INCLUDED

Professional Guide / Chauffeur - entirely self-driven
International and domestic flights
Fuel for the entire trip
Entrance fees to national parks and reserves
Personal Medical Insurance and Repatriation (mandatory but not provided)
Visa fees (if applicable)
Alcoholic beverages, Water and drinks
Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon rides, scenic flights)
Personal expenses like souvenirs, laundry, and tips

Additional information

Must Know
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Good To Know
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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Location

Address
Mariental, Namibia

Provider

Motema Tours and Safaris Namibia

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