Namibia-7-day-itinerary

Namibia Travel Itinerary (7 days)

Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek

  • Arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport
  • Transfer to your hotel and freshen up
  • Things to know: Windhoek is a small city, but it has a good selection of restaurants, bars, and shops. Don’t miss the Christ Church, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Recommended restaurant: Joe’s Beer House (try their famous braai buffet!)

Day 2: Windhoek to Sossusvlei

  • Pick up your rental car or join a guided tour
  • Drive to Sossusvlei (~4 hours) and visit:
    • Dune 45: Take a short hike to the top of this iconic sand dune for breathtaking views.
    • Dead Vlei: Explore the surreal landscape of dead trees in front of massive sand dunes.
    • Sesriem Canyon: Walk through the gorge and learn about the history and geology of the area.

Day 3: Sossusvlei to Swakopmund

  • Drive to Swakopmund (~4.5 hours) and check-in at your hotel
  • Visit:
    • The Namib Desert (take a guided tour or drive through it)
    • The old German colonial architecture in the city center
  • Things to know: Swakopmund is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and water sports. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some adventure activities like sandboarding, quad biking, or skydiving!

Day 4: Swakopmund

  • Take a guided tour or rent a car to explore:
    • The Namib Desert Skeleton Coast (try a boat cruise or drive along the coast)
    • The Walvis Bay lagoon (spot some flamingos and other marine life)
    • The town’s quirky shops and cafes

Day 5: Swakopmund to Etosha National Park

  • Drive to Etosha (~4.5 hours) and check-in at your lodge
  • Visit:
    • The Etosha Pan (a massive salt pan that is a magnet for wildlife)
    • The waterholes (spot some of the Big Five, including elephants, lions, and rhinos)

Day 6: Etosha National Park

  • Take a guided tour or drive through the park to spot:
    • The unique rock formations and geological wonders
    • The diverse wildlife, including cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas
  • Things to know: Etosha is known for its incredible sunsets and starry skies. Don’t forget your camera!

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the morning at leisure or take a final safari drive
  • Return your rental car or join a guided tour back to Windhoek (~4 hours)
  • Depart from Hosea Kutako International Airport

Travel Requirements:

  • Visa: Required for citizens of most countries. Check with the Namibian embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.
  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic to determine any necessary vaccinations.
  • Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical, trip cancellation, and luggage loss/damage.

Transportation:

  • Rent a car (recommended) with 4-wheel drive capabilities to navigate the country’s rough roads.
  • Join a guided tour for an added layer of safety and expertise.
  • Public transportation is available but limited in rural areas.

Tips and Recommendations:

  • Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip, as Namibia experiences a dry season (April-October) and a wet season (November-March).
  • Currency: The Namibian dollar is pegged to the South African rand. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Language: English is an official language; Afrikaans, German, and Oshiwambo are also spoken.

Budget:

  • Estimated daily budget for accommodations, food, and activities: NAD 2,500 (~USD 175)
  • Rental car costs: approximately NAD 1,000-2,000 (~USD 70-140) per day

Please note that prices may vary depending on the time of year and other factors. This itinerary is meant to serve as a general guide only.