Namib Desert, Etosha National Park and Himba

A 19-days adventurous 4×4 self drive through the Namib Desert and Etosha National Park. Meet the indigenous Himba!

The Namib Desert, Etosha National Park and Himba trip

The travel program of this trip includes the Namib Desert and the Etosha National Park. Visit the sand dunes of Sesriem, Spitzkoppe, Damaraland, the Kaokoland and last but not least the Epupa Falls. Off course Etosha National Park and the Waterberg Plateau are a must see! A beautiful, varied self drive in which you will visit multiple high lights of Namibia! Start and finish are in Windhoek.

Accommodations during the trip are campsites, B&B’s and lodges. The trip is including reliable car rental, insurance, accommodations, and reservations. The trip is available for 2 to 4 people per car. The default car is a Toyota Hilux 4×4 double cab 2.4 Diesel. The price for 5 people or more can be requested and depends on the local possibilities.

Advantages of self-drive 4×4 package trips

Inclusive support and professional advice safari trip
Inclusive GPS with Tracks4Africa software and all 4×4 waypoints and destinations for your trip
Inclusive CDW2 insurance with Zero Excess
A perfectly mapped route with optimal travel distances
SGR cover for pre-paid funds (incl. Sicherungsschein for Germany)

Alternative Namib Desert tours:

Looking for a shorter Namibia trip where you will meet the local Himba? Check out our 14-days self drive Himba & Kaokoland road trip or the Namibia Kaokoland & Damaraland 4×4 Trail.

Epupa Falls Namib Desert Tour

Gemsbok Etosha Namib Desert

Namib Desert Sossusvlei

Itinerary

1: Windhoek
2: Namib Naukluft National Park
3: Sesriem
4: Sossusvlei/Solitaire
5: Swakopmund
6: Spitzkoppe
7: Ugab Rhino
8: Twyfelfontein
9: Khowarib
10: Opuwo
11: Epupa Falls
12: Kunene River
13: Etosha National Park (Olifantsrus)
14: Etosha National Park (Halali)
15: Etosha National Park (Namutoni)
16: Waterberg Plateau National Park
17: Waterberg Plateau National Park
18: Okonjima Nature Reserve
19: Windhoek (return flight)

3 nights B&B or Lodge

15 nights camping

19 days 4x4 car rental

Route & itinerary

19days

Day 1: Windhoek

The first day of this wonderful self-drive discovery of Namibia. When you arrive at the airport, our partner will be there to bring you to the car rental agency so you can collect the car. After an extensive instruction session and the required formalities, your self-drive will truly start. Spend the first night in Windhoek so that you have plenty of time to get to know the 4×4 and the city. Windhoek is also where you’ll have to buy the bulk of your supplies for the self-drive. Stay at Arebbusch Travel Lodge.

Accommodation: B&B. Travel distance: arrival day.

Day 2: Namib Naukluft National Park

Today, you will be travelling to Namib Naukluft National Park. This drive is not too far. If you leave Windhoek in the morning, you will have the afternoon for hiking and discovering Naukluft for the first time. The Olive Trail is a 10 kilometers hike which takes up 4-5 hours. Of course it is also possible to make this hike the next morning before you leave for Sesriem. Stay at Naukluft Campsite.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 250 km

Day 3: Sesriem

Today, you can make a short hike in Naukluft National Park before you leave for your next stop. After packing up camp you will start your travel to Sesriem, near the sand dunes of Sossusvlei. You will probably arrive early afternoon to what many call the highlight of their journey to the Namib Desert. Stay at Sesriem Campsite.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 95 km.

Day 4: Sossusvlei/Solitaire

A full day to explore the sand dunes of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. We advise you to leave early so that you’ll get to the dunes in time for sunrise. It’s a breathtaking show of reds and oranges dancing around deep shadows. At the end of the day you will drive back to stay at Camp Gecko.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance 240 km.

Day 5: Swakopmund

After two nights with the sand dunes and Sesriem, continue your self-drive journey to Swakopmund upon Atlantic Ocean. The road crosses through the Kuisib Canyon and the vast gravel plains of the Namib Desert. Arrive in Swakopmund in the early afternoon. Accommodation is a bed & breakfast with a unique view. In Swakopmund you can dine out in a restaurant if you’d like. Stay at Desert Breeze.

Accommodation: B&B. Travel distance: 350 km.

Day 6: Spitzkoppe

Discover Swakopmund and/or go (grocery) shopping after breakfast. When you’re ready, travel on to the next destination: the characteristic sharp rocks of Spitzkoppe. Stay at Spitzkoppe Restcamp.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 275 km.

Day 7: Ugab Rhino

Don’t miss the sunrise from the rocks before you pack up your camp! Continue your self-drive 4×4 deeper into the Damaraland. The stunning views so characteristic of Namibia accompany you to the community based Ugab Rhino Camp. You could just be honoured by a visit from Namibia’s famous desert elephants. On the road to Spitzkoppe you can visit the seals of Cape Cross (which is a detour of about 80 km).

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 200 km.

Day 8: Twyfelfontein

A special day where the 4×4 is truly indispensable. Adventurous tracks perfect for the 4×4, low gear, and GPS device are today’s goals on the road to Twyfelfontein through a Damaraland landscape that is as unique as it is beautiful. We advise you to use the whole day for this drive even though it’s a short one: it really is a 4×4 track and you’ll generally drive slowly. You could spot ostriches, oryx, various types of antelope and maybe even the extremely shy black rhino today. Stay at Mowani Camp.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 95 km.

Day 9: Khowarib

Today, the drive is not too long, so that you can enter the wild north at your own speed. On the way, you might meet Himbas and Herreros. Stay at Khowarib Lodge Campsite. From this campsite you can walk or drive into the Khowarib Schlucht, a beautiful canyon.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 180 km.

Day 10: Opuwo

Reach the most northern point of your Namibia safari self-drive today in the small town of Opuwo in Kaokoland. You can visit a traditional Himba village in the afternoon. After a few nights of camping, the lovely lodge of Opuwo Country Lodge is a welcome change. In Opuwo you can shop for groceries and tank fuel.

Accommodation: B&B. Travel distance: 160 km.

Day 11: Epupa Falls

After breakfast in the lodge the route continues to the Epupa Falls. Here the Kunene river flows down into a delta with high palm trees. There is time to visit the Himba and the waterfalls. The campsite is between the palmtrees next to the falls. Stay at Epupa Falls Restcamp.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 175 km.

Day 12: Kunene River

Heading east in a short drive along the river to the next lodge. There are some (often) dry riverbeds. The road is recently improved and only in rain season there is a chance that you will have to make a detour. Stay at the campsite of Kunene River Lodge. The sunset cruise is definitely recommended.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 90 km.

Day 13: Etosha National Park (Olifantsrus)

There are two options to drive to Etosha National Park from the Kunene River Lodge. Through Ruacana or Opuwo. The destination of today is Olifantsrus in Etosha National Park. In the past, they used to slay elephants here. Nowadays there is a beautiful campsite in this area, Olifantsrus Restcamp, with a watch tower and lighted watering hole for animals. In total you will stay three days at different campsites in Etosha National Park!

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance ca. 300-350 km.

Day 14: Etosha National Park (Halali)

Today is going to be a long travelling day in Etosha National Park. Early in the morning you will start your journey driving eastward. Make stops at multiple watering holes to spot wild animals before you reach Okaukeujo. A perfect lunch location. Next stop is your final destination for the day, Halali Restcamp. Here too is a lighted watering hole where you can spot some wild animals in the evening, such as hyena’s, lions or even leopards.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 190 km.

Day 15: Etosha National Park (Namutoni)

The third day in Etosha National Park. Today there is an extensive game drive towards Namutoni waiting for you. You have the choice between an early morning game drive or walk around the camp, or to break up camp immediately and take your time getting in Namutoni. Stay at Namutoni Restcamp.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 70 km.

Day 16: Waterberg Plateau National Park

In the morning you leave Etosha National park. On your way to the Waterberg Plateau it is possible to make a stop a the beautiful Hoba Meteorite – world’s largest meteorite. Continue your trip to Waterberg. This plateau is an ecologically very diverse area that invites for beautiful walks. The black rhino was successfully reintroduced here in 1989. Stay at Waterberg Plateau Campsite.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: 390 km.

Day 17: Waterberg Plateau National Park

A full rest day in Waterberg Plateau National Park. Go on a guided hike with a local ranger and discover this beautiful area! Stay at Waterberg Plateau Campsite.

Accommodation: camping. Travel distance: resting day.

Day 18: Okonjima Nature Reserve

In the morning you leave Waterberg National Park. We advice to start early since a long trip is waiting for you. The last wild reserve of this trip is Okonjima Nature Reserve. You can drive around or book a game drive with a guide. Stay at Omboroko Campsite.

Accommodation: campsite. Travel distance: 470 km.

Day 19: Windhoek (return flight)

The last day of your Namibia trip. After returning the 4×4 car to the agency in Windhoek, you will be brought back with a shuttle service to the airport.

Travel distance: 210 km.

Your custom self drive 4×4 itinerary

All our self drive trips can be adjusted to your personal requirements. Staying somewhere for a day longer or adding another destination is not a problem.
Ask us about the possibilities and we are happy to help you!

Your 4x4 rental car

The default car is a Toyota Hilux 4×4 double cab 2.4 Diesel.

The Toyota Hilux double cab is the most perfect 4×4 rental car for a self-drive safari in Africa.

It has much space and comfort, and has sleeping places in the roof tent. This Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4×4 has a separate boot where you can safely store your travel bags, together with all the camping equipment for your self-drive journey in Southern Africa.

Available for both 2 and 4 people, the Hilux is the best choice. For travels with 5 people (two adults and three children) the Hilux double cab can also be used.

If you’re with just two people, the back seat is especially useful for photo bags, day packs and supplies.

It is possible to upgrade car at extra costs.

Check here all our 4×4 rental cars.

RATES

Here you can see the prices per person for various dates in 2024 and 2025. The Namib Desert, Etosha National Park and Himba trip is available for 2 to 4 people per car. The default car is a Toyota Hilux 4×4 double cab 2.4 Diesel. The price for 5 people or more can for example be requested and depends on the local possibilities and space in the preferred car. 4×4 cars (Land Cruiser or 4×4 camper) other than the default 4×4 car are available upon request.

20 March - 30 June, (2024)

2 people Rate per person € 2.095,-
3 people Rate per person € 1.675,-
4 people Rate per person € 1.395,-

Optional CDW (Zero Excess) insurance incl. tires and glass € 435,- per trip.

1 July - 10 November, (2024)

2 people Rate per person € 2.550,-
3 people Rate per person € 2.010,-
4 people Rate per person € 1.635,-

Optional CDW (Zero Excess) insurance incl. tires and glass € 435,- per trip.

11 November - 4 January, (2025)

2 people Rate per person € 2.095,-
3 people Rate per person € 1.675,-
4 people Rate per person € 1.395,-

Optional CDW (Zero Excess) insurance incl. tires and glass € 435,- per trip.

5 January - 19 March, (2025)

2 people Rate per person € 2.085,-
3 people Rate per person € 1.685,-
4 people Rate per person € 1.415,-

Optional CDW (Zero Excess) insurance incl. tires and glass € 435,- per trip.

20 March - 30 June, (2025)

2 people Rate per person € 2.295,-
3 people Rate per person € 1.815,-
4 people Rate per person € 1.520,-

Optional CDW (Zero Excess) insurance incl. tires and glass € 435,- per trip.

1 July - 10 November, (2025)

2 people Rate per person € 2.755,-
3 people Rate per person € 2.150,-
4 people Rate per person € 1.765,-

Optional CDW (Zero Excess) insurance incl. tires and glass € 435,- per trip.

Included

Toyota Hilux 4x4 Double Cab with complete camping & safari equipment

All accommodation during the journey

Two drivers

GPS & Tracks4Africa software

Advise by experienced self drive specialists

Airport transfers

Support

Not included

International Flights

Entry Fees

Fuel

Food & Drinks

Upgrades to fixed (luxury) accommodations

Upgrade to Toyota Landcruiser or Hilux 3.0 (automatic) or Toyota Fortuner (automatic)

Zero Excess insurance

Highlights

Windhoek

Since 1891 the capital of Namibia

Sossusvlei and Sesriem

Massive dessert dunes near Sesriem

Solitaire

The most famous town in Namib-Naukluft National Park

Swakopmund

A unique beach escape in Namibia

Spitzkoppe

Imposing peaks in Damaraland.

Damaraland

A desert-like region, with rugged rocks and mountains

Twyfelfontein

Red rocks with over 2500 rock paintings.

Opuwo

Gateway to the Kaokoveld

Epupa Falls

One of the most spectacular attractions of Kaokoland

Kunene Rivier

The natural border between Angola and Namibia

Etosha National Park

Waterberg Plateau National Park

Great hiking place!

Okonjima Nature Reserve

Gallery

Himba Kaokoland Namibia

Etosha National Park

Sossusvlei Hilux DC

Namib Desert Spitzkoppe

Namib Desert Sossusvlei

Divorce Pass Namibia

Etosha National Park

Epupa Falls Namibia

Cape Cross Namib Desert

10 / 10

Skillful people

Good knowledge of Africa and the countries there. What to visit and they plan the trip so it suits the customer.
Quick response when you have questions.

Christer Jonson

10 / 10

Adequate hulp

Selfdrive4x4.com biedt adequate en deskundige hulp bij zowel het plannen van het reisschema, het regelen van autohuur en het daarbij horende papierwerk (verzekeringen, transfers) en het vastleggen van de camping- en lodge-locaties.

Anonymous

10 / 10

Perfect organization

Selfdrive4x4.com offers the perfect organization of the trip for selfdrivers.

Strengths

Very easy handling, good communication.

Franziska

10 / 10

Perfect

Perfect, I would recommend it to everybody to work together with it.

Strengths

Friendly people – very fast in answering questions – high knowlede about the things you need at your destination and for a 4×4 driving holiday – easy to comunicate with.

Improvements or suggestions

Right know for my use it was perfect. Especially since I am not next door, and just worked together via internet and phone.

Niedereder Raimund

10 / 10

We would recommend Selfdrive4x4.com to our friends

We booked a last minute 17 day self drive trip through Namibia with this company and everything was just perfect. Contact with the company was very pleasant and they kept us posted with updates about the progress of our trip. Gps, maps, book and 12V equipment was sent to our home as soon as our trip was confirmed.

Price wise it was a great deal and everything in Namibia (car and layovers) were to our satisfaction. We would definitely book again with this company and we would recommend it to our friends.

Reinier