NAMIBIA
Namibia, a land of mesmerizing beauty and wild adventures, enchants visitors with its remarkable landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Africa, Namibia is renowned for its vast deserts, towering dunes, and rugged mountain ranges. The breathtaking Etosha National Park offers superb wildlife sightings, while the iconic Skeleton Coast beckons with its haunting landscapes and shipwrecks. From the quaint German-influenced town of Swakopmund to the indigenous Himba communities, the diversity of Namibia's people adds layers of authenticity to the country's allure. Travelers can immerse themselves in thrilling activities such as dune boarding, quad biking, and even tracking desert-adapted elephants. Whether seeking tranquility amidst the stark beauty of the Namib Desert or embarking on an exhilarating safari, Namibia promises an unforgettable journey through a land of limitless wonders.
In April 2023 my friend and I spent a week doing a road trip around the country of Namibia, which was my 141st country. Here is the ultimate itinerary for a road trip around Namibia!
where is Namibia?
Namibia is a country located in southwestern Africa. Bordered by Angola to the north, Zambia and Botswana to the east, and South Africa to the south and east, Namibia boasts a diverse landscape that includes the Namib Desert, one of the oldest deserts in the world. The country's coastline stretches along the South Atlantic Ocean, offering spectacular views and vibrant marine life.
How to get around Namibia
Renting a car was the way to go in Namibia, and I highly recommend looking for something with 4-wheel drive. It’s possible getting around without 4WD but in order to access some sites you need it. For instance, at Sossusvlei National Park you can park and take a shuttle to Deadvlei, but if you want to get there first thing in the morning and beat the crowds you must have 4WD to drive on the sand.
SEARCH | Alternatively, check out Expedia for the best deals on car rentals.
The Ultimate Namibia Road Trip
Day 1: Windhoek to The Skeleton Coast
We didn’t really spend much time in the capital as we had so much to see in so little time, so we jumped in the rental car and made our way towards the Skeleton Coast. Now, we honestly had no idea where exactly we were going; we knew we wanted to see the dunes where the “sand meets the sea,” but we didn’t know exactly where the dunes were. At first we typed in “skeleton coast” into Google maps and just started driving that way, however, we soon realized that we needed to go to Sandwich Harbour.
After making our way to the coast, we decided to stay the night in the town of Hentiesbaai. Accommodation in this area was a little out of our budget, but we found a cute bed & breakfast Huis Klipdrift Self Catering B&B. They’re apartment-style rooms, which is great for families or if you’re looking to stay next to the beach and barbecue. It’s also a great value and in a perfect location; we walked over to a restaurant called The Fishy Corner, which isn’t the best name but had really fresh seafood!
DAY 2: Sandwich Harbour
Nestled on the southwestern shores of Namibia, lies the enigmatic and ethereal Skeleton Coast, a place where the boundaries between the living and the dead blur. With its desolate and haunting beauty, this stretch of land is a mysterious amalgamation of sandy dunes, treacherous rocky outcrops, and a rugged shoreline that has claimed hundreds of shipwrecks over centuries.
One of our bucket list items for Namibia was visiting the vast dunes next to the ocean; we were wondering if it would be possible to go on our own, but unless you’re really experienced at off-roading it’s not recommended. It’s also highly encouraged to go with a tour group because the tides dictate your safety and your car could get stuck and washed out to sea if not careful.
We went with Mola Mola Marine Dune Experience, and they were fantastic and really knowledgable about the dunes, tides, and how to get in and out of any situation. We had an incredible spread of food for lunch and highly recommend them!
SEARCH | Alternatively, check out Viator for other Sandwich Harbour tours.
Later in the day, we went to Walvis Bay to meet with someone who would take us to Pelican Point Lodge, where we would be staying for the next two nights. We drove behind our guide and it was surreal going somewhere so remote, driving past flocks of flamingos and colonies of seals.
DAY 3: PELICAN POINT
Pelican Point in Namibia is a captivating coastal destination that embodies the essence of nature's raw beauty. Situated at the southernmost tip of the picturesque coastal town of Walvis Bay, Pelican Point is known for its breathtaking views and abundant wildlife. As the name suggests, this remarkable peninsula is home to a vast variety of pelicans, which can be seen gracefully gliding over the turquoise waters. The dramatic landscape, adorned with pristine sand dunes and rugged cliffs, creates a stunning backdrop for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether it's witnessing a striking sunset, observing playful seals, or taking in the serene surroundings, Pelican Point offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the marvels of Namibia's unspoiled coastline.
Honestly, Pelican Point was one of the highlights of this trip. I didn’t know what to expect, but it sure blew me away. The lighthouse was built in the early 1900’s and was converted into a luxury lodge, meaning it’s the only place you can stay on this peninsula and is an all-inclusive luxury experience. It is a little on the pricey side, but if your budget allows I guarantee it will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.
STAY | Check out Booking.com to book your trip to Pelican Point Lodge.
Day 4: PELICAN POINT TO the Namib Desert
In the morning before departure, we had the opportunity to kayak with a colony of seals; it was honestly one of the most incredible wildlife experiences I’ve ever had. This is included if you stay at the Pelican Point Lodge, and one of the many activities they offer.
We also wanted the chance to stay in the Namib Desert to be close to Sossusvlei National Park, so we continued our way south and stayed at The Desert Grace by the Gondwana Collection Hotels. This was only an hour from the national park but was a good place to relax for a couple nights.
Day 5: Desert Grace
The Namib Desert, nestled along the southwestern coast of Africa, is a mesmerizing tapestry of boundless beauty and untamed landscapes. Its name, translated as "vast place," aptly captures the essence of this extraordinary desert. Endless stretches of towering orange sand dunes, sculpted by the persistent wind, create an otherworldly panorama that amazes and humbles all who witness it. The desolate terrain is punctuated by pockets of life, where resilient flora and fauna adapt to the harsh conditions. With its ethereal sunsets casting a golden glow over the barren expanse, the Namib Desert is a testament to the raw power and captivating allure of our planet.
Each room at the Desert Grace has its own pool in the back that’s open to the vast desert. It truly feels like you’re out there on your own in the middle of nowhere. They offer different desert tours and trekking, but my friend and I have been doing so much nonstop that we decided to take some time to relax.
SEARCH | Alternatively, check out Booking.com for more options in the area.
Day 6: Sossusvlei National Park
Sossusvlei National Park is a mesmerizing natural wonder tucked away in the heart of Namibia. Renowned for its towering red sand dunes, this vast desert landscape blends colors and textures in the most remarkable way. As the sun rises, casting its golden light over the dunes, a breathtaking scene unfolds. The surreal beauty of the contrasting deep blue sky against the vibrant red sand is a sight that leaves visitors in awe. Venturing into the park, one can witness the ethereal Dead Vlei, a dried-up clay pan dotted with ancient skeletal trees, frozen in time. Sossusvlei National Park is not only a testament to the power of nature but also a captivating destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience in the Namib Desert.
Deadvlei has been another bucket list spot I’ve wanted to visit in Namibia. There are two gates that provide entry to the national park; the first one opens at 7:15 AM and the other, which is the second set past the first gate, opens earlier. If you camp in the national park you have access to going to the sites earlier than 7:15 AM, but honestly since we were just trying to go to Deadvlei it didn’t really make much of a difference. As long as you have your own car with 4WD you’ll be able to witness Deadvlei with both shadows and broad daylight. If you don’t have 4WD, there’s an area where you can park and take a shuttle.
In the afternoon we headed back to Windhoek and flew out the next day. It was an incredible trip and I hope this itinerary helps your planning!
