Namibia With A Touch Of Botswana And Zimbabwe

ITINERARY ‘CROSS BORDER’

The perfect safari trip for those who have time and want to see the whole country, and want to experience places by spending more time at each destination. Now that you are in Namibia, why not include some of the spectacular highlights of neighboring Botswana and Zimbabwe?

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Self-Drive Tour

28 Days (customizable)

3.188 km

Your journey starts in the rusty red landscapes of the Kalahari Desert and Sossusvlei, where you can climb one of world’s highest dunes. The Atlantic Coast has much to offer, from kayaking on the ocean to sand boarding in the dunes. In the ancient landscapes of Damaraland and Kaokoland you will find intriguing cultural heritage of San-rock art and traditional Himba villages.

 

Of course, a safari in Etosha National Park with its large numbers of wildlife cannot be missed. A paradisiac, lush green world opens up when you drive into the Zambezi Region, leading you to Botswana’s breathtaking Chobe National Park and the spectacular Victoria Falls of Zimbabwe. Your journey ends with a wondrous hike at the Waterberg Plateau.

Brief Itinerary

  • Day 1-3: Windhoek – Kalahari
  • Day 4-5: Namib-Naukluft Park – Sossusvlei
  • Day 6-7: Atlantic Coast
  • Day 8: Cape Cross – Damaraland - Twyfelfontein
  • Day 9-12: Kaokoland – Himba Culture – Cheetah Farm
  • Day 13-16: Etosha National Park
  • Day 17-19: San Culture - Zambezi Region
  • Day 20-22: Chobe National Park – Victoria Falls
  • Day 23-24: Zambezi Region
  • Day 25: Waterberg Plateau
  • Day 26-27: Windhoek - Departure
  • Day 28: Arrival Home

Highlights

In a month's time you really get that unique feeling of being only a small individual, driving through far stretched landscapes on endless roads in one of the least dense countries in the world

Adding a few days to spend in the undisturbed nature of Namibia's far northwest

Join a boat cruise over the Kavango River or Kwando River during sunset

The Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe

You will be the driver of your own safari at Etosha National Park

Joining a kayaking tour or catamaran cruise to meet seals, pelicans and maybe even dolphins

Visit to the Sossusvlei, the world’s oldest desert is an absolute ‘must’.

Visit a traditional San-village

Detailed Itinerary

Route Cross Border

Day 1-3

Windhoek – Kalahari

After a night in Namibia’s capital Windhoek and now fully prepared, it is time to hit the road.

Driving southwards, you will encounter the beautiful, raw nature of the Kalahari Desert. This is a unique piece of earth, as it is one of the oldest. It has been home to the hunter-gatherers of the San-tribe for a long period of time. Despite of the name of this desert meaning “Great thirst”, it rains relatively much, meaning it attracts plenty of wildlife. Keep your eyes open for the “alternative big 5”: oryx, lion, springbok, eland and leopard.

Day 4-5

Namib-Naukluft Park – Sossusvlei

Climb one of the world’s highest dunes for the most spectacular sunrise and sunset.

Red dunes, distinguished from each other by sharp lines, and their contrast with an eye blinding white salt pan and dead black trees… Sossusvlei is probably the most well-known image of Namibia, and cannot be missed in any trip. The shapes and colors make it almost seem surreal. Climb one of the world’s highest dunes for the most spectacular sunrise and sunset, a feast for your eyes!

 

This part of the Namib-Naukluft Park is called the “Namib Sand Sea”: as far as you can see there are dunes of rusty colored sand. A nature drive in the area or a visit to Sesriem Canyon are definitely worth doing when you want to explore more of the surroundings.

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Explore Namibia offers organised self-drive holidays and private guided tours. You can go on an adventure in a fully equipped vehicle of your own choice. We will arrange your accommodations in advance, whether you wish to stay in lodges and guesthouses, on campsites or both.

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Prices

Camping:

Low Season from: € 1.597,-

High Season from: € 2.028,-

Accommodation:

Low Season from: € 3.992,-

High Season from: € 4.545,-

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What is included?

Car rental

Accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, lodges or campsites)

Unlimited kilometres

Complete camping equipment (camping trip)

Car insurance with standard excess

Third party insurance

Most accommodations are booked with breakfast and camping is self-catering

Personal travel App for cell phone

24-hours emergency service

Tips and route information

Airport/hotel transfers

What is excluded?

International Flights

Fuel

Park fees, entrance fees to museums

Personal expenses

Additional activities and excursions, e.g. game drives, boat trips, etc.

Meals (unless indicated as included)

Travel and cancellation insurance

Other Itineraries

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9 Days Safari Tour

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21 Days Safari Tour

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14 Days Safari Tour

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28 Days Safari Tour

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22 Days Safari Tour

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25 Days Safari Tour

Day 6-7

Atlantic Coast

A sea of sand changes into an ocean at the Atlantic Coast.

Of course, you can leave the shore and discover life at the water: go on a kayak tour or catamaran cruise and visit the seal colonies. If you are lucky, you might even be followed by dolphins! For those who want more adrenaline, the dunes in the surroundings lend themselves for some exciting sand boarding and quad biking.

 

Very interesting is a “living desert tour”, where you learn about how life miraculously learned to adapt to the harsh conditions of the desert. The coastal town Swakopmund has some characteristics of a German seaside resort: ocean, beach and swaying palm trees are mixed with typical German architecture. On menus you might find “Bratwurst“ and “Apfelstrudel”.

Day 8

Cape Cross – Damaraland - Twyfelfontein

Find the fascinating number of 2,500 rock engravings of Twyfelfontein.

The journey continues northwards, where you can make a stop at Cape Cross: as far as you look you will see seals scattered along the coast! You will then turn back inland, where you will see an enormous mountain looming ahead of you: the Brandberg, best known for its ancient “White Lady” rock painting. Entering beautiful Damaraland, it feels like you are going back in time. You are driving through a dusted landscape scattered with gigantic boulders and ancient, dry riverbeds.

 

Somewhere hidden in the landscape you will find the fascinating number of 2,500 rock engravings of Twyfelfontein. These beautiful inscriptions once served as a means of communication for the San-people, informing fellow tribe members about nearby waterholes and predators. Seeing this rock art from close by is something that will definitely leave an impression. While driving, you might be lucky to bump into the largest inhabitant of the area, the mysterious desert elephants! These beautiful giants have miraculously learned to adapt to the severe conditions of the desert.

Day 9-12

Kaokoland – Himba Culture – Cheetah Farm

In Kaokoland you will reach the most northern part of your trip.

This part of Namibia is also known as the country’s last wilderness, and is home to the traditional Himba tribe. Time and modernity seem to pass by their traditions easily: they still live their authentic, nomadic lifestyle where life is organized around cattle. A guided visit to one of their villages will give you more insight in their way of life.

 

Opuwo is the capital of the north. It is a real African town where people of all tribes meet each other for trade and pleasure. Make a stroll through town and experience the vibrant African atmosphere. Before heading into Etosha National Park, you will stay the night at a Cheetah Farm, where you can have an unforgettable experience when seeing these beautiful cats from close by.

Day 13-16

Etosha National Park

Prepare yourself for the largest amounts of wildlife you might have ever seen when you enter Etosha National Park.

The 22,270 square kilometers of protected nature form the largest national park of Southern Africa, meaning you will be needing a couple of days to cross the park. To see as much as possible from Etosha, you will be staying at different lodges or campsites within or surrounding the park. It is a unique experience to drive your own safari!

 

Grab your binoculars and see if you can spot lions, cheetahs and leopards. In the late afternoon, settle down at one of the park’s waterholes and let the animals come to you: elephants, giraffes, zebras and antelopes will gather to relieve themselves from their thirst. This is a truly unforgettable experience! And what do you think about an exciting safari on foot in the Onguma Private Game Reserve located next to Etosha?

Day 17-19

San Culture - Zambezi Region

Dry landscapes of Namibia make place for a lush oasis of green woodlands and blue rivers.

Have you ever wondered how it would be to experience life away from modernity? Near Grootfontein you will be visiting a San-village. It is a unique experience to experience the hunter-gatherer lifestyle, the oldest of modern human beings. When driving to the Zambezi region, you will cross the veterinary fence north of Grootfontein. Directly after this checkpoint, you will see many villages and business along the road. This is probably more the African atmosphere you expected to find in an African country.

 

The dry landscapes of Namibia make place for a lush oasis of green woodlands and blue rivers of this area that is better known by its former name, the Caprivi Strip. Join a boat cruise over the Kavango River or Kwando River during sunset and do not forget to stop at the elegant, tranquil Popa Falls.

Day 20-22

Chobe National Park – Victoria Falls

Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant population of Africa.

At the eastern Zambezi region you will cross the border to Botswana, where you will stay in Kasane. This is the perfect basis for a visit to the beautiful Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant population of Africa. Up to 70,000 of these giant animals walk around the park. It is amazing to drive through this beautiful nature with your own car. There is even a spot where you can have your own picknick, however be aware of the hungry monkeys!

 

Go on a boat cruise to see elephants bathing from very close by, and being surrounded by hippos and crocodiles that hide under water. A day visit to Zimbabwe to see the spectacular Victoria Falls is definitely a must. Every minute, thousands of liters of water hurtle down into the abyss. Do not forget your raincoat!

Day 23-24

Zambezi Region

Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta of the world

Maun is the entrance gate to the Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta of the world. It shimmers as an oasis in the vast Kalahari Desert: nature here is overwhelming! Step into a mokoro and see hippos, crocodiles, snakes, turtles and enjoy the silence and the clear delta water. Or take your own car and drive through Moremi Game Reserve, the part of the delta that is accessible for vehicles, and look for lions, leopards, wild dogs, hyenas, zebras, giraffes and elephants.

 

Those who cannot get enough of this paradise can take a flight over this beautiful green and blue colored delta world. A great way to explore the Okavango Delta is by joining a mobile safari. This guided tour will bring you deep in the Delta. You will sleep in tents and will be guided along the sandy tracks and lagoons while searching for wildlife.

Day 25

Waterberg Plateau

Leaving the vegetation rich Caprivi behind, your next stop is the Waterberg Plateau.

The Waterberg Plateau, rising up from the surface for about 400 meters high at some places. The Waterberg Plateau and 41,000 hectares of surrounding land was declared a Nature Reserve in 1972. The areas nature is again different than you experienced earlier. The brick-red sandstone plateau is crowned with lush vegetation and supports a wide diversity of flora and fauna. This national park lends itself for some nice hikes. Haven’t seen enough animals yet? Go on a game drive and look for buffalos or the white rhino.

Day 26-28

Windhoek - Departure - Arrival Home

Relax and rewind from an amazing adventure.

Your journey comes to an end in Windhoek, where you will have enough opportunity to relax and rewind from an amazing adventure and buy your last souvenirs before going home. Consider a visit to the Namibian Craft Market in town, located in the old brewery and for a last dinner choose one of Windhoek’s nice restaurants.

Travel Advice Namibia

Every traveller has their own preferences. Do you need assistance in planning your self-drive trip to Namibia? Our experienced tour consultants are ready to assist you! Together we fully customize the tour to your personal preferences, wishes and budget. We can assist you in many different ways. Our team of friendly and service-oriented Tour Consultants is available in Europe and Africa to assist you in creating a personalized proposal for your tailor-made trip to Namibia and to answer all your questions you might have.

Experience the journey of a lifetime with a trip to Namibia

What is included?

Below is an overview of what is included in your booking with Explore Namibia.

Transport:

Airport/hotel transfers

Car rental

Detailed explanation of the car (4×4 only)

Complete camping equipment (camping trip)

Car insurance with standard excess

Third party insurance

Unlimited kilometres

24-hours emergency service

Information:

Information Meet and Greet upon arrival (Windhoek only)

Extensive information folder

Detailed route and road description

Personal travel App for cell phone

Roadmaps

Description of places of interest

Tips and information

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Accommodation:

Standard accommodation tours include all rooms at middle-class hotels, guesthouses or lodges (mostly B&B), unless otherwise requested.

Standard camping tours include most nights at campsites, combined with several nights at middle-class hotels, guesthouse or lodges (mostly B&B).

Almost all campsites and accommodations have a restaurant and offer facilities like a pool, bar, info desk, etc.

If the trips includes visits to National Parks, then the nights will be spent inside the parks as much as possible.

Meals & Drinks:

Most accommodations are booked with breakfast and camping is self-catering. It will be clearly indicated what meals are included in your tour proposal.

With most accommodations it is also possible to book dinner in advance. If you would like to include this in your proposal, please let us know.

What is excluded?

Below is an overview of what is excluded from your booking with Explore Namibia.

What is not included?

International Flights (book separately with Explore Namibia)

Fuel

Park fees, entrance fees to museums and personal expenses

Additional activities and excursions, e.g. game drives, boat trips, etc.

Meals (unless indicated as included)

Travel and cancellation insurance

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Optional Extras?

Below is an overview of the optional extras you can add to your booking with Explore Namibia.

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Optional Extras?

Flights

Reduced excess on vehicle insurance

Satellite phone, which can be used everywhere in Africa

GPS-navigation system

Compressor

Two-way radios

Also refer to our Extra Options Car Rental

Explore one of the most fascinating and diverse countries in the world

Other Self-Drive Routes to Namibia

The Route ‘Cross Border’ is just one of our sample itineraries. The itineraries we offer are fully customizable to your needs. You can book these, or you can use them for inspiration to build your own, tailor-made adventure. See below some of our other sample itineraries that we have put together. Explore Namibia will always make sure that you will experience the journey of your dreams!

Self-Drive Itineraries
Storm Visit
Short but sweet. Experience the dunes, coast and Etosha National Park.

Length: 9 Days (customizable)

Price from: €633,- EUR

Self-Drive Itineraries
Central
Adventurous camping and you can hardly get closer in touch with nature.

Length: 21 Days (customizable)

Price from: €1.239,-EUR

Self-Drive Itineraries
Highlights
Discover all of Namibia’s best bits. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

Length: 14 Days (customizable)

Price from: €879,- EUR

Self-Drive Itineraries
All In One
The ultimate adventure! Visit Namibia and see it all, from the deep South to the far North.

Length: 22 Days (customizable)

Price from: €1.281,- EUR

Self-Drive Itineraries
Combi Botswana
Seek diversity; from far stretching savannas, to lush green oases and abundant wildlife.

Length: 25 Days (customizable)

Price from: €1.539,-EUR

Self-Drive Itineraries
All Round
See the whole country, from the Fish River canyon in the South all the way to the Epupa Falls in the far North.

Length: 28 Days (customizable)

Price from: €1.597,- EUR

Experience the ultimate adventure in Africa – book your self-drive tour today!

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