This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Small, intimate group experience – no more than 16 people
✓ Explore the incredible landscapes of the Namib Desert & Etosha National park including game drives in open 4WD
✓ 8 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels and lodges, all with ensuite
✓ Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 5 dinners
✓ Dedicated transport throughout
✓ Fully escorted by English-speaking guides
✓ Sightseeing and game drives including entry fees as per itinerary
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
A tour to Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, and Etosha offers a unique blend of Namibia's wonders. Explore the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, the coastal charm of Swakopmund, and the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park. Experience breathtaking landscapes, desert adventures, vibrant culture, and incredible wildlife all in one unforgettable journey.
Welcome to Windhoek, capital of Namibia. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
This evening at 6pm meet your tour leader and fellow travellers for a briefing about your upcoming journey.
The remainder of the evening is free to prepare for your adventure into the desert tomorrow.
Special Information
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
After an early breakfast, you will depart Windhoek at 7.00am for the drive to Sossusvlei, where the dramatic beauty of the Namib Desert awaits. We will arrive at our lodge for lunch and set out in the afternoon to explore.
Famed for its towering red sand dunes, this region is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Dune 45, one of the tallest and most accessible dunes, invites you to climb its slopes for panoramic views that stretch across the desert. From there, continue on to Deadvlei, a hauntingly beautiful clay and salt pan framed by massive dunes. Here, the remains of ancient, sun-bleached trees create an eerie yet mesmerizing scene of stillness and solitude.
As you explore, be on the lookout for the mysterious "fairy circles", dark circular patches scattered across the sand. The origin of these strange formations remains a subject of debate, with theories ranging from insect activity to plant toxins, or even meteor impacts, highlighting the many secrets still hidden within the oldest desert in the world.
Your journey will also take you to Sesriem Canyon, a remarkable geological feature carved by the intermittent Tsauchab River, which flows only once every few years. The river has also shaped the salt and clay pan of Sossusvlei, making the canyon an integral part of the region's natural history.
Return to your lodge for a well earned rest and dinner
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours. The distance covered is approximately 300km on a combination of sealed and dirt roads.
After breakfast we will depart at 7am for the drive north to Swakopmund. Swakopmund is a charming coastal town in Namibia, known for its blend of German colonial architecture and vibrant desert landscapes. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert, it offers a range of activities from adventure sports to cultural experiences, making it a popular travel destination. On arrival you will have some free time for lunch at one of the local cafes (not included).
In the mid-afternoon, we’ll head to Mondesa Township for an immersive experience in traditional Namibian culture.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll embark on a captivating walk through the township, offering you a unique glimpse into the vibrant daily life, rich history, and deep cultural traditions of this warm and welcoming community. Visit a lively market where you can sample traditional foods like wild spinach, mopane worms, and dried kapenta fish, each with its own distinct flavors and cultural significance.
Next, explore an arts-and-crafts shop focused on empowering local youth by teaching them traditional skills and crafts. You’ll also have the chance to visit a lively shebeen (local tavern), where you can enjoy a drink and engage with friendly locals in a relaxed atmosphere.
The experience concludes with a memorable dinner at a family-run venue, where you’ll be treated to authentic local cuisine and entertainment—an unforgettable evening filled with music, dance, and Namibian hospitality.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 ½ hours. The distance covered is approximately 350km on sealed roads
After breakfast at your hotel, depart at approximately 7am on a tour to Sandwich Harbour. Journey from Swakopmund to Walvis Bay, traversing stunning landscapes. Your adventure begins with a stop at the nearby salt pans and pink lakes, ideal for capturing the striking scenery. Continue along the beach at the high tide waterline, where seals and a variety of bird species can be spotted.
Next, enjoy a mini living desert tour in the lower Kuiseb Delta, with the opportunity to search for some of Namibia's smaller creatures; geckos, chameleons, and toktokkies. As you learn about the Namib Desert’s unique ecology, keep an eye out for oryx, springbok, and ostriches along the way.
Tide permitting, the journey continues along the beach toward the iconic Sandwich Harbour. If high tide blocks the route, the drive detours through towering dunes above the ocean. Pause at breathtaking viewpoints like Kodak Viewpoint to witness the dramatic meeting of desert and sea. Enjoy the thrill of a 4x4 dune ride before savoring a private lunch in this remote, awe-inspiring setting. The tour concludes with more wildlife sightings as you return to Swakopmund in time for lunch (not included).
In the afternoon, join your guide for a leisurely 1–2 hour walk through Swakopmund, where you’ll explore the town’s rich history and unique charm. Starting from your hotel, stroll past iconic landmarks like the Hohenzollern Building, the Swakopmund Lighthouse, and the historic Jetty, with stories of the town’s German colonial past along the way. Enjoy the sea breeze along the Mole Promenade and admire the architecture of the Woermannhaus and other colonial-era buildings in the town center. The tour wraps up near a local café or market, leaving you free to explore on your own or return to your hotel to relax.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, depart the hotel at 8am for the journey to Etosha National Park. Along the way, there will be a stop in Outjo. This charming and bustling town located in northern Namibia, is often regarded as the gateway to Etosha National Park. Its convenient location makes it a popular stop for travelers heading to the park or exploring the surrounding region. With a relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and a range of amenities, Outjo offers a chance to rest, refuel, and explore a slice of everyday Namibian life.
Continue through to your accommodation at Etosha, arriving at approximately 3pm. Take some time to relax, sit by the waterhole, or enjoy a dip in the pool. Alternatively, if time permits, you can join an optional afternoon game drive into the park. This will be arranged by your guide and paid locally (approx. cost NAD1200)
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours. The distance covered is approximately 630km on a combination of sealed & dirt roads
After an early breakfast, embark on a full-day safari adventure in Etosha National Park, where diverse habitats and natural waterholes attract an incredible variety of wildlife. Begin your journey early to maximize your chances of spotting predators like lions and leopards in the cooler morning hours. As you travel through the park, marvel at the contrast between the expansive salt pan—spanning 4,731 km²—and the surrounding grasslands and woodlands.
At midday, pause at Halali Rest Camp for lunch, where you can relax and recharge. Take a dip in the swimming pool or observe wildlife at the camp’s nearby waterhole, a prime spot for animal sightings during the day. After lunch (included), continue your game drive, searching for elephants, giraffes, ostriches, and more. Birdwatchers will be captivated by the more than 340 species of birds in the park, including migratory species and iconic African birds like flamingos and the kori bustard.
This full-day experience offers an immersive exploration of Etosha’s stunning landscapes and remarkable wildlife, making it a must-do for nature enthusiasts.
Inspiring Highlights
Breakfast will be served at 6am, then begin your day with a peaceful morning game drive in Etosha National Park, taking advantage of the cooler hours when wildlife is at its most active. Predators such as lions and cheetahs are often spotted finishing their nighttime hunts, while elephants, giraffes, and various antelope species start their day by gathering near waterholes or grazing in the grasslands.
The soft light of the early morning adds a golden glow to the breathtaking landscapes, from the sprawling salt pan to the lush Mopani and camel thorn woodlands. Bird enthusiasts will also enjoy spotting the park’s rich birdlife, including kori bustards, bee-eaters, and even flamingos during the rainy season.
This serene and rewarding morning safari offers a fresh perspective on the wonders of Etosha and is perfect for those looking to maximize their wildlife-viewing opportunities.
We'll return to camp around midday. The rest of the day is yours to relax, sit by the waterhole or take a dip in the pool. Alternatively you can join an optional afternoon game drive. Your guide will be happy to arrange this for you, and the cost (approximaltey NAD1200) can be paid locally.
After breakfast we will bid farewell to Etosha as we had back to Windhoek.
Along the way visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund, a globally renowned research and education facility established by Dr. Laurie Marker, whose groundbreaking research has been supported by National Geographic. Begin with a tour of the center to learn about their innovative conservation programs and community outreach efforts, aimed at ensuring the survival of cheetahs in the wild.
A researcher from the program will deliver an engaging lecture, sharing insights into cheetah behavior, habitat preservation, and the challenges they face. Afterward, embark on a cheetah drive, where you'll have the extraordinary opportunity to observe these majestic animals up close in their natural environment.
Conclude this unforgettable experience with a group lunch on the veranda, which offers stunning views of the nearby Waterberg Plateau, a fitting backdrop to reflect on the conservation efforts you’ve witnessed.
Continue to Windhoek, arriving at approximately 3pm. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the facilities of the country club.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 ½ hours. The distance covered is approximately 550km on a combination of sealed & dirt roads
Today your Namibia adventure comes to an end.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information
Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Inspiring Sights
Inspiring Tastes
Inspiring Stay
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
It is the traveler's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, CLICK HERE.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
Travelling in Africa
Travelling by road in Africa can include some long travel days. Road quality can vary from comfortable sealed roads to rough & bumpy dirt roads. Distances covered can be in excess of 300 km (180 miles) per day or more than 6 hours journey time, subject to the road conditions.
Luggage
Due to limited storage capacity, we ask that luggage is kept to a manageable amount in a small soft bag – 15kg (33 pounds) max. Hard suitcases are not suitable. It is also recommended to bring a day pack for use throughout the day.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a ”3”
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $1,650.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Group Size
Minimum: 6
Maximum: 16
Children
Children must be 12 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
Click HERE for more information on weather in South Africa.
{{details.header}}
Australia
New Zealand
Canada
India
