Namibia - 13-day Big Game Tracking Safari - Tailored Self-drive

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Namibia – 13-day Big Game Tracking Safari – Tailored Self-drive

13 days / 12 nights
Windhoek • Etosha South • Grootberg • Purros • Palmwag • Twyfelfontein • Okonjima Nature Reserve

Country

Namibia

Duration

13 days

Highlights

Windhoek

Etosha South

Grootberg

+4 destinations

Rated 4.9/5

Namibia – 13-day Big Game Tracking Safari – Tailored Self-drive

From $6,450
Etendeka Mountain Camp
Camp Kipwe
Etendeka Mountain Camp
Etendeka Mountain Camp
Etendeka Mountain Camp
Camp Kipwe

Includes

Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4x4 or Similar, manual transmission, a/c, including full insurance and unlimited kilometers
12 nights' accommodation on board basis as mentioned
Activities as mentioned

Excludes

Flights
Fuel
Drinks (included at Okahirongo Elephant Camp)
Meals not mentioned 
Activities not mentioned as included
Park fees
Gratuities - we recommend NAD 180 per person/day per guide and for lodge staff
Entry visa
Travel insurance
Increase in government tax, park fees and forced fuel supplements

Itinerary

Windhoek, Namibia

Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, lies in the heart of the country amid the rolling Khomas Highlands, where wide skies and dry savannah frame a compact, orderly city. It blends German colonial heritage with contemporary African identity, creating a calm, understated atmosphere rather than a bustling metropolis. Landmarks such as Christuskirche and the Tintenpalast sit alongside modern civic buildings, while lively markets and cafés reveal everyday Namibian life. Visitors can explore museums, stroll shaded streets, or use the city as a gateway to the surrounding wilderness and safari regions. The air is often dry and clear, carrying the scent of dust and jacaranda blossoms, while distant hills glow at sunset. Windhoek offers a gentle introduction to Namibia’s landscapes and culture, with space, light and quiet defining its appeal.
Windhoek
Windhoek
Windhoek
Windhoek
Windhoek
Windhoek
  • Olive Grove Guesthouse

    Day 1 - 2

    Nestled in the heart of Windhoek's vibrant city centre, Olive Grove Guesthouse offers a tranquil retreat just a short stroll away from town. This charming guesthouse is an ideal starting or ending point for your Namibian adventure.
    Olive Grove Guesthouse
    Olive Grove Guesthouse
    Olive Grove Guesthouse
    Olive Grove Guesthouse
    Olive Grove Guesthouse
    Olive Grove Guesthouse
    +11

Day 1

Day Notes:

At arrival at Windhoek airport you will be met by a car rental representative and taken to the near depot to pick up your hire car. After signing the contract and your briefing, drive to Olive Grove Guesthouse for your first night.

  • Pick-up your car

  • Self Drive from Hosea Kutako International Airport [WDH] to Olive Grove Guesthouse

  • Check-in to Olive Grove Guesthouse

Etosha South, Namibia

Situated along the southern boundary of Etosha National Park in northwestern Namibia, Etosha South encompasses the park's southern safari region and a collection of private game reserves and lodges. The park is accessed via Andersson Gate, placing visitors within easy reach of renowned waterholes and excellent wildlife viewing. Lions, elephants, giraffes, white and black rhinos, and a wide variety of antelope are among the species commonly seen. Guided 4×4 game drives are the main attraction, with half- and full-day safaris available, some including picnic lunches in the bush.
Etosha South
Etosha South
Etosha South
Etosha South
Etosha South
Etosha South
+2
  • Okaukuejo Camp

    Day 2 - 4

    Okaukuejo Camp, located within Etosha National Park in Namibia, is the park’s oldest and most iconic tourist camp, just 17 km from Anderson Gate. The property features a variety of accommodation, including premier waterhole chalets, standard waterhole chalets, double rooms, bush chalets, family chalets, and camping sites, all equipped with amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, fridges, tea stations, and, in some cases, braai facilities. Guests benefit from excellent facilities, including two swimming pools, a restaurant, and a bar. Activities include guided morning, afternoon, and night game drives, as well as exceptional wildlife viewing at the floodlit waterhole, where elephants, lions, rhinos, and antelope gather throughout the day and night.
    Okaukuejo Camp
    Okaukuejo Camp
    Okaukuejo Camp
    Okaukuejo Camp
    Okaukuejo Camp
    Okaukuejo Camp
    +9

Day 2

Day Notes:

After breakfast start your adventure with your drive to Etosha National Park. Enter the park through the southern Andersson Gate and make your way on your first safari drive to Okaukuejo Camp, famous for its busy water whole. 

Driving time: ~4 hours

  • Check-out from Olive Grove Guesthouse

  • Self Drive from Olive Grove Guesthouse to Okaukuejo Camp

  • Check-in to Okaukuejo Camp

  • Self-Drive Game Viewing

Day 3

Day Notes:

Enjoy a safari drive with your own vehicle.

  • Self-Drive Game Viewing

  • Guided night game drive

Grootberg, Namibia

Resting majestically in the heart of Namibia's Damaraland region, The Grootberg Plateau showcases stunning natural landscapes characterised by deep canyons, dramatic rock formations, and expansive vistas. The renowned Grootberg Pass winds through mountains, offering spellbinding views. On the drive, one may come across the Himba people, known for centuries-old livestock farming practices. Encounters along the Grootberg Pass may include purchasing handmade jewellery while supporting the community with donations. Despite its rugged terrain, Grootberg hosts diverse wildlife, including black rhinos, giraffes, and desert elephants, adapted to harsh desert conditions. Additional activities include walking trails, birdwatching, and Damara Cultural Tours. End the day with a 4x4 drive atop the flat plains of the Grootberg Plateau that leads to a jaw-dropping viewpoint and watch the sunset.
Grootberg
Grootberg
Grootberg
Grootberg
Grootberg
Grootberg
  • Grootberg Lodge

    Day 4 - 6

    14 Twin and 2 family rock and thatch chalets gaze out over the Klip River Valley, where Black Eagles hunt just below your private deck. Two family units provide enough space for parents and two children to share comfortably.
    Grootberg Lodge
    Grootberg Lodge
    Grootberg Lodge
    Grootberg Lodge
    Grootberg Lodge
    Grootberg Lodge
    +23

Day 4

Day Notes:

Today you will drive from Okaukuejo Camp through the west of the park where you will leave the park through Galton Gate and make your way to Grootberg Lodge. In the afternoon go on a walk on the plateau and enjoy the stunning views before dinner.

Activities offered at an extra cost:

  • Elephant Tracking in the Conservancy Half Day  
  • Damara Cultural Visit Half Day
  • Scenic Sundowner Drive on Plateau
  • Moringa Guided Walk (2 - 3 hours)

Driving time: ~6 hours including game viewing 

  • Check-out from Okaukuejo Camp

  • Self Drive from Okaukuejo Camp to Grootberg Lodge

  • Check-in to Grootberg Lodge

  • Go on a plateau walk

Day 5

Day Notes:

Rhino tracking at Grootberg Lodge is a community-run conservation experience in Damaraland, Namibia, that combines open 4x4 vehicle travel with tracking black rhinos on foot through the Klip River Valley. You will track wild desert-adapted black rhinos alongside trained local guides and community trackers, and stop for lunch out in the field.

  • Full Day Rhino Tracking

Purros, Namibia

Situated in the wild north western Kunene region in Namibia, the Purros area, also known as ‘Puros’, features arid semi-desert terrain characterised by a blend of undulating hills, wooded river valleys and vast plains covered in sparse savannah, dotted with acacia and tamarisk trees. This remote area is a 4X4 enthusiast's dream, lying deep in the heart of the Kaokoland wilderness. It is home to an array of unique desert adapted wildlife such as elephant, lion, black rhino and giraffe. Visitors can stay overnight at several lodges and camps and enjoy numerous activities including: game drives, Himba cultural tours or guided tours of a local village.
Purros
Purros
Purros
Purros
Purros
Purros
  • Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary

    Day 6 - 8

    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is situated in the Puros Conservancy in Kaokoland, one of the last truly wild areas in the North West of Namibia and it features beautiful mountain landscapes and rugged tranquility. At Okahirongo Elephant Lodge twice-daily 4x4 drives into the extraordinary wilderness are likely to be the main focus, with expert Himba guides leading the search for desert-dwelling elephants, geological features known as“clay castles” and epic exploration of the ever-shifting dunes. Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is located in the Puros Conservancy, 55 km from the skeleton coast and around 200 km south of the Kunene River in the north of Namibia. Often described as one of the last true wilderness areas, the Kaokoveld is home to the nomadic Himba tribe. The lodge, in the Puros Conservancy area, is a no risk malaria destination and can be reached by 4x4 vehicles. Alternatively a 2 ½ hour flight from Windhoek in a small aircraft will take you to a landing strip, which is located approximately 5 minutes from the lodge.
    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary
    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary
    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary
    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary
    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary
    Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary
    +6

Day 6

Day Notes:

After a leisurely breakfast or another activity in the morning, leave to Okahirongo Elephant Lodge in the heart of the Kokoveld, where the landscapes are like on a different planet. Join your first shared activity from here in the afternoon. 

Driving time: ~4 hours

  • Check-out from Grootberg Lodge

  • Self Drive from Grootberg Lodge to Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary

  • Check-in to Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary

  • Shared afternoon activity

Day 7

Day Notes:

Included activities from Okahirongo are:

  • Scenic drives
  • Himba village visits
  • Clay Castle visit
  • Stargazing
  • Guided e-bike excursion and local village tour

  • Daily shared activities

Palmwag, Namibia

Situated in the rugged landscapes of northwestern Namibia's Kunene Region, Palmwag is a remote safari destination renowned for its dramatic desert scenery and remarkable wildlife. Set amid rocky hills, ephemeral riverbeds and iconic makalani palms, it lies within one of Namibia's largest wilderness conservation landscapes. Visitors can enjoy guided nature drives and walking safaris in search of desert-adapted elephants, black rhinos, giraffes, springbok and other wildlife adapted to this arid environment. Sweeping vistas, striking red-earth landscapes and peaceful starlit skies create a profound sense of solitude, making Palmwag an exceptional destination for travellers seeking wilderness, conservation experiences and the untamed beauty of Namibia.
Palmwag
Palmwag
Palmwag
Palmwag
Palmwag
Palmwag
  • Etendeka Mountain Camp

    Day 8 - 10

    In the foothills of the Grootberg massif, set amidst magnificent scenery and the ancient Etendeka lavas of northern Damaraland, the ten en-suite Meru tents have been refitted with luxury mattresses and 100% cotton linen. Necessary comforts have not been overlooked with the bathrooms also benefiting from a makeover, while the traditional, open-air bucket shower still holds pride of place.
    Etendeka Mountain Camp
    Etendeka Mountain Camp
    Etendeka Mountain Camp
    Etendeka Mountain Camp
    Etendeka Mountain Camp
    Etendeka Mountain Camp
    +48

Day 8

Day Notes:

After a leisurely breakfast you will get into your own car again and drive south to Palmwag Lodge. Once you arrive, you will hand your luggage over to the driver who will safely deliver your luggage to the River Camp.  Start your walk from Palmwag Lodge into the Etendeka Concession for approximately 2 to 3 hours to your 1st overnight camp.  The scenery is incredible as you access the concession on foot and look out onto the pristine rocky plains set against the Namibian sky. Your experienced guide will give you a sense of what awaits as he identifies desert plants and trees. Keen birders and photographers should have their binoculars and cameras on hand.

Driving time: ~4 hours plus transfer

  • Check-out from Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary

  • Self Drive from Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary to Missing Point

  • Transfer from Missing Point to Etendeka Mountain Camp

  • Overnight Guided Trail

  • Check-in to Etendeka Mountain Camp

Day 9

Day Notes:

After your first night under the stars wake up early to the sounds and smells of the wilderness. Enjoy a full cooked breakfast, pack your travel snacks and water bottles into the backpacks provided and start your walk to Hill Camp. The route is spectacular and your guide will be able to identify animal spoor and share information about the history of the area. Stop en route for refreshments and aim to reach Hill Camp by early-afternoon for a late lunch and siesta. The distance of this walk is between 15km and 20km and should take about 6 to 7 hours, including stops, depending on the groups fitness level.

Hill Camp is situated on the top of Crystal Mountain with spectacular views and an abundance of crystals and exquisite rock formations. In the afternoon you will be able to do a short sundowner walk around the plateau. Guests will enjoy a simple but delicious and wholesome dinner around the fire. Settle in on your sleeping platform perched on the edge of the mountain and enjoy the night under the stars.

  • Overnight Guided Trail

Twyfelfontein, Namibia

Situated in the Kunene Region of northwestern Namibia, on the edge of the Huab Valley, Twyfelfontein is a remarkable archaeological and geological site renowned for its exceptional collection of ancient rock engravings. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to more than 2000 petroglyphs created over thousands of years by hunter-gatherer communities, making it one of Africa's most significant concentrations of prehistoric rock art. Guided walks lead visitors through dramatic sandstone outcrops to view engravings depicting wildlife, human figures and symbolic motifs, while the surrounding desert landscape is known for its striking scenery and adapted wildlife, including desert elephants that occasionally roam the region. Nearby attractions include the Organ Pipes, Burnt Mountain and the Damara Living Museum.
Twyfelfontein
Twyfelfontein
Twyfelfontein
Twyfelfontein
Twyfelfontein
Twyfelfontein
  • Camp Kipwe

    Day 10 - 12

    Camp Kipwe is an intimate and remote bush lodge located in Namibia's arid yet starkly beautiful Twyfelfontein region, home to many ancient Bushman etchings.
    Camp Kipwe
    Camp Kipwe
    Camp Kipwe
    Camp Kipwe
    Camp Kipwe
    Camp Kipwe
    +16

Day 10

Day Notes:

After breakfast you will enjoy a short morning walk down to Etendeka Mountain Camp and get the scenic nature drive back to Palmwag Lodge, from where you will drive to Twyfelfontein to stay at Mowani Mountain Camp for 2 nights. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in this beautiful environment before you enjoy more activities tomorrow.

Driving time: ~4 hours

  • Check-out from Etendeka Mountain Camp

  • Transfer from Etendeka Mountain Camp to Missing Point

  • Scenic transfer drive

  • Self Drive from Missing Point to Camp Kipwe

  • Check-in to Camp Kipwe

  • Afternoon at leisure

Day 11

Day Notes:

Included activities are:

Guided Nature Drives

Usually departs at 06h30 and will go out for +/- 4 – 6 hours to explore the surrounding area and search for animal life such as the desert-adapted elephants. Drinks & snacks are included.

Twyfelfontein, Burnt Mountain and Organ Pipes

This usually departs at 15h00 and will last for +/- 2 hours taking in the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Twyfelfontein to explore the rock engravings, along with seeing Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes.

  • Guided Nature Drive

  • Twyfelfontein, Burnt Mountain and Organ Pipes

Okonjima Nature Reserve, Namibia

Situated between Namibia’s capital city of Windhoek and the renowned Etosha National Park, Okonjima Nature Reserve is a 22,000-hectare wilderness sanctuary celebrated for its conservation efforts and exceptional wildlife experiences. The reserve is home to the renowned AfriCAT Foundation, which focuses on the protection and rehabilitation of Namibia’s carnivores, particularly leopards, cheetahs, and other threatened species. Set against a backdrop of rolling plains, rocky outcrops, and acacia woodland, Okonjima offers visitors the opportunity to gain unique insight into conservation initiatives while enjoying outstanding game viewing. Activities include guided carnivore tracking excursions, leopard-spotting safaris, off-road night drives, birdwatching, and cultural experiences along the Bushmen Trail. Accommodation ranges from luxury lodges and private villas to intimate bush camps, providing a memorable base from which to explore this remarkable reserve.
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Okonjima Nature Reserve
  • Okonjima Plains Camp

    Day 12 - 13

    Okonjima Plains Camp is within the secluded wilderness area of Okonjima Nature Reserve and has majestic sunset views. Its design honours the Hanssen’s family cattle-farming history with its accommodation facility of 11 large View Rooms and 14 spacious Classic Rooms. The Plains Camp Barn includes a dining and lounge area, a curio shop and a terrasse with views over a waterhole and the Okonjima plains.
    Okonjima Plains Camp
    Okonjima Plains Camp
    Okonjima Plains Camp
    Okonjima Plains Camp
    Okonjima Plains Camp
    Okonjima Plains Camp
    +20

Day 12

Day Notes:

Drive to your last stop - Okonjima Nature Reserve. Here you will enjoy an afternoon leopard tracking activity.

Driving time: ~4 hours

  • Check-out from Camp Kipwe

  • Self Drive from Camp Kipwe to Okonjima Plains Camp

  • Check-in to Okonjima Plains Camp

  • Leopard Tracking Activity

Day 13

  • Check-out from Okonjima Plains Camp

  • Self Drive from Okonjima Plains Camp to Hosea Kutako International Airport [WDH]

End of Itinerary

Destinations

Windhoek
Namibia
Day 1

Windhoek

Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, lies in the heart of the country amid the rolling Khomas Highlands, where wide skies and dry savannah frame a compact, orderly city.
Etosha South
Namibia
Day 2-3

Etosha South

Situated along the southern boundary of Etosha National Park in northwestern Namibia, Etosha South encompasses the park's southern safari region and a collection of private game reserves and lodges.
Grootberg
Namibia
Day 4-5

Grootberg

Resting majestically in the heart of Namibia's Damaraland region, The Grootberg Plateau showcases stunning natural landscapes characterised by deep canyons, dramatic rock formations, and expansive vistas.
Purros
Namibia
Day 6-7

Purros

Situated in the wild north western Kunene region in Namibia, the Purros area, also known as ‘Puros’, features arid semi-desert terrain characterised by a blend of undulating hills, wooded river valleys and vast plains covered in sparse savannah, dotted with acacia and tamarisk trees.
Palmwag
Namibia
Day 8-9

Palmwag

Situated in the rugged landscapes of northwestern Namibia's Kunene Region, Palmwag is a remote safari destination renowned for its dramatic desert scenery and remarkable wildlife.
Twyfelfontein
Namibia
Day 10-11

Twyfelfontein

Situated in the Kunene Region of northwestern Namibia, on the edge of the Huab Valley, Twyfelfontein is a remarkable archaeological and geological site renowned for its exceptional collection of ancient rock engravings.
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Namibia
Day 12

Okonjima Nature Reserve

Situated between Namibia’s capital city of Windhoek and the renowned Etosha National Park, Okonjima Nature Reserve is a 22,000-hectare wilderness sanctuary celebrated for its conservation efforts and exceptional wildlife experiences.

Accommodations

Olive Grove Guesthouse
Windhoek
Day 1-2

Olive Grove Guesthouse

Nestled in the heart of Windhoek's vibrant city centre, Olive Grove Guesthouse offers a tranquil retreat just a short stroll away from town.
Okaukuejo Camp
Etosha South
Day 2-4

Okaukuejo Camp

Okaukuejo Camp, located within Etosha National Park in Namibia, is the park’s oldest and most iconic tourist camp, just 17 km from Anderson Gate.
Grootberg Lodge
Grootberg
Day 4-6

Grootberg Lodge

14 Twin and 2 family rock and thatch chalets gaze out over the Klip River Valley, where Black Eagles hunt just below your private deck.
Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary
Purros
Day 6-8

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is situated in the Puros Conservancy in Kaokoland, one of the last truly wild areas in the North West of Namibia and it features beautiful mountain landscapes and rugged tranquility.
Etendeka Mountain Camp
Palmwag
Day 8-10

Etendeka Mountain Camp

In the foothills of the Grootberg massif, set amidst magnificent scenery and the ancient Etendeka lavas of northern Damaraland, the ten en-suite Meru tents have been refitted with luxury mattresses and 100% cotton linen.
Camp Kipwe
Twyfelfontein
Day 10-12

Camp Kipwe

Camp Kipwe is an intimate and remote bush lodge located in Namibia's arid yet starkly beautiful Twyfelfontein region, home to many ancient Bushman etchings.
Okonjima Plains Camp
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Day 12-13

Okonjima Plains Camp

Okonjima Plains Camp is within the secluded wilderness area of Okonjima Nature Reserve and has majestic sunset views.

May - November 2026

  • Per person sharing: NAD 118,300
  • Single traveller: NAD 171,600

December 2026 - April 2027

  • Per person sharing: NAD 103,650
  • Single traveller: NAD 132,760

May - November 2027

  • Per person sharing: NAD 120,220
  • Single traveller: NAD 174,540