Epic two weeks in Namibia itinerary

Fabulously photogenic across its diverse landscapes, Namibia delivers adventure at every turn — from the ancient Namib desert that runs along the country’s coastline, to the eastern Kalahari and northern game reserves. Inspired to visit? Keep reading — the epic two weeks in Namibia itinerary shared below will help you make the most of your time in this extraordinary country.

Two weeks in Namibia itinerary overview

Before delving into the day-by-day detail of this Namibia itinerary, here’s a handy overview of the adventures that await.

• Day 1: Arrive in Windhoek, visit highlights
• Day 2: Travel to Sossusvlei
• Day 3: Discover Sossusvlei’s dunes and Dead Vlei
• Day 4: Explore Sesriem Canyon, take flight and quad bike 
• Day 5: Travel to Namibrand Nature Reserve
• Day 6: Safari in Namibrand Nature Reserve
• Day 7: Travel to Swakopmund
• Day 8: Day trip to Sandwich Harbour
• Day 9: Travel to Damaraland
• Day 10: Discover Damaraland's desert-adapted elephants and Himba culture
• Day 11: Travel to Etosha National Park
• Day 12: Full-day safari in Etosha National Park 
• Day 13: Explore more of Etosha National Park 
• Day 14: Depart Namibia

Want to be better informed before launching into planning and booking your Namibia itinerary? Contact our local experts.

Day 1: Arrive in Windhoek, visit highlights

After landing in Hosea Kutako International Airport, transfer to your accommodation, check in, and head straight back out to seeing some of Windhoek’s highlights. With just one night in Namibia’s capital, you won’t want to waste any time.

For example, you could start your exploration at Christuskirche — a striking German Lutheran church that’s one of Windhoek’s most iconic landmarks. 

Nearby, the Independence Memorial Museum is on hand to tell you everything you need to know about Namibia’s history, struggle for independence, and cultural heritage. 

We also recommend strolling Post Street Mall. A top place to pick up local crafts, it’s also home to the historic Gibeon Meteorites display. 

Finally, head to the tranquil Parliament Gardens to see indigenous plants and statues of Namibian leaders.

Where to stay

Windhoek has plenty of places to stay, from budget-friendly backpacker hostels and family-run guesthouses, through to luxurious hotels, among them the modern Hilton Windhoek, which also has a rooftop pool.

For a mid-range stay, check out the centrally located Avani Windhoek Hotel.

On a budget? Try Chameleon Backpackers, which offers eminently affordable comfort.

Day 2: Travel to Sossusvlei

Adventures in and around Sossusvlei await on the second day of this Namibia itinerary. Located in Namib-Naukluft National Park, it’s a place of epic dunes that invites unforgettable treks, quad bike adventures, and incredibly scenic flights. 

How to get from Windhoek to Sossusvlei

The drive from Windhoek to Sossusvlei takes around 5–6 hours (360 km). 4x4 vehicles are recommended — some roads are gravel, and can be pretty bumpy.

Alternatively, you could take a scenic one-hour charter flight to enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Namib Desert.

Where to stay

For a rustic, affordable stay close to the park, check out Sesriem Campsite, which won’t break the bank. 

Meanwhile, Desert Quiver Camp is a great mid-range option with modern amenities.

Looking for luxury? Sossusvlei Lodge has your name all over it.

Day 3: Discover Sossusvlei’s dunes and Dead Vlei 

Day 3 is devoted to discovering the epic Dune 45 — one of the most magical, and most photographed, dunes in the world.

We suggest rising very early to arrive in time to see the sun rise — the ascent to the top is something else, and from the summit you’ll see an otherworldly landscape of the desert’s red hues extending further than the eye can see.

Next, it’s time to continue to explore Sossusvlei — a surreal clay pan surrounded by towering dunes — and Dead Vlei, which is known for the ancient, blackened camel thorn trees that contrast with a dazzling white pan backdrop.

Cone the afternoon, head back to your accommodation to relax ahead of taking an early-evening nature walk or sundowner drive to discover desert flora and fauna in the company of a local guide.

Day 4: Explore Sesriem Canyon, quad bike and take flight

Adventures are in store on day 6, kicking off with a morning trip to Sesriem Canyon.

Carved out by the Tsauchab River, the narrow gorge here is a joy to explore, with rocky passageways and remarkable geological formations that began to form some 10–20 million years ago.

Next, spend the afternoon enjoying an exhilarating quad bike experience, or else take to the skies for a scenic flight over the Namib Desert.

Day 5: Travel to Namibrand Nature Reserve

Day 5 will see your transfer to the NamibRand Nature Reserve, one of the largest private reserves in Africa, which shares a 100km border with the south-eastern section of Namib-Naukluft National Park.

How to get from Sossusvlei to Namibrand Nature Reserve

The journey from Sossusvlei to the NamibRand Nature Reserve takes in the region of 1.5 to 2 hours by car (around 100 km) across a route that’ll have you taking in Namibia’s captivating desert landscape.

While road is the most popular option, some lodges offer scenic charter flights.

After arriving and checking-in, unwind with lunch at your lodge (suggestions for where to stay are right below) ahead of joining a sundowner safari drive for your first taste of the area.

Come nightfall, NamibRand’s status as a Dark Sky Reserve comes into its own. 

Where to stay

NamibRand isn’t short of lodges, many of which offer luxurious elements, and boast eco credentials.

Among our top picks are the mid-range Namib Desert Lodge, located on the edge of the reserve, and the more remote Wolwedans Boulders Camp.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for luxury, check out Wolwedans Dunes Lodge

Day 6: Safari in Namibrand Nature Reserve

Safari adventures are in store on day 6 of this Namibia itinerary, when you’ll go on a full-day game drive. 

Expert to see the likes of oryx, springbok, zebras, giraffes, jackals and, if you get lucky, leopards across landscapes that range from red dunes and grasslands to mountains and riverbeds. Also look out for unique flora like the quiver tree.

Come the evening, you could take an extra night drive to see aardwolves and porcupines. 

Traveling as a family? Read up on exploring Namibia with kids.

Day 7: Travel to Swakopmund

Day 7 heralds a notable shift in scenery, with a transfer from NamibRand Nature Reserve to Swakopmund — a charming coastal town that’s known for its German colonial architecture and opportunities to enjoy adventure activities.

How to get from Namibrand Nature Reserve to Swakopmund

Covering 400 km, the journey from Namibrand Nature Reserve to Swakopmund takes around 6–7 hours by car.

Set off early so you can spend the afternoon exploring some of Swakopmund’s highlights. 

Aside from simply strolling the streets to soak up the German-inspired architecture, visit the Swakopmund Museum to learn about the natural and cultural history.

Meanwhile, the Mole Promenade delivers great views of the almighty Atlantic Ocean — perfect for a refreshing pre-dinner stroll.

Where to stay

If you’re trying to stick to a tight budget, try the cozy Villa Wiese Backpackers Lodge, while mid-range travelers could consider the The Delight Swakopmund by Gondwana, which offers modern comfort in a central location.

At the other end of the scale, Strand Hotel serves upscale amenities and restaurants by the ocean.

Day 8: Day trip to Sandwich Harbour

Famed for its dramatic scenery that sees towering sand dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean, Sandwich Harbour is best explored on a guided 4x4 tour. 

Tours typically depart from Swakopmund or Walvis Bay, a 30-minute drive south of Swakopmund. 

Among the activities on offer are dune drives that’ll see your 4X4 tackle steep inclines and sandy terrain, and guided nature walks along the dunes or coastal wetlands and lagoons, the latter of which will be especially appreciate by bird-watchers.

Day 9: Travel to Damaraland

Extraordinary animals lie in wait on the next leg of this Namibia itinerary, by which we mean Damaraland’s unique desert-adapted wildlife, along with awe-inspiring ancient rock art.

How to get from Swakopmund to Damaraland

The drive from Swakopmund to Damaraland takes around 5-6 hours, with the drive largely done across gravel roads for some 350 km.

Start early so you arrive in time to spend the afternoon visiting the Twyfelfontein UNESCO World Heritage Site to see stirring ancient rock engravings created by San hunter-gatherers.

Where to stay

Boasting eco-conscious design and stunning rock formations, Cape Kipwe comes recommended for travelers who are keen to uncover local culture.

Meanwhile, Mowani Mountain Camp is a more upscale option — a luxury lodge nestled among granite boulders, with panoramic views and elegantly appointed rooms.

Day 10: Discover desert-adapted elephants and Himba culture

Begin your day with a thrilling guided game drive to see desert-adapted elephants, which have adapted, quite remarkably, to survive in arid conditions.

As a bonus, you’ll most likely also get to see giraffes, springbok and oryx.

Culture is in store in the afternoon, courtesy of taking an unforgettable trip to a Himba village to learn about the traditions of this semi-nomadic tribe.

As an alternative, nature lovers might want to take a trip to see the dramatic the Huab River Valley.

Day 11: Travel to Etosha National Park

On day 11, it’s time to depart Damaraland early to transfer to Etosha National Park.

Home to a huge diversify of wildlife, including the Big Five (except buffalo), giraffes, cheetahs and hundreds of bird species, Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, and centred around a salt pan that’s so huge, it can be seen from space.

How to get from Damaraland to Etosha National Park

The drive to Andersson Gate, Etosha’s southern entrance, takes 4–5 hours. While the route is well-maintained, a 4x4 is recommended.

On arrival, either chill out in your lodge, or go on afternoon game drive — waterholes are excellent viewing spots in the late afternoon. 

Where to stay

Within the park itself, Okaukuejo Camp is very hard to beat, largely thanks to a floodlit waterhole that offers excellent night-time game viewing experiences.

Outside the park, Etosha Village is a comfortable mid-range lodge close to Andersson Gate.

Looking for luxury? Check out Onguma Game Reserve — a decidedly upscale option located near the eastern gate

Want to safari in style? Discover the best luxury safaris in Namibia.

Day 12: Full-day safari in Etosha National Park 

Start your day early to see the animals of Etosha National Park at their most thrillingly active. 

Most tours follow routes to wildlife-rich waterholes like Nebrownii, where herds of zebras and springbok gather. Meanwhile, Olifantsbad attracts elephants and lions.

In the afternoon, head to the Etosha Pan Lookout. While the pan itself is barren, soaking up the otherworldly setting is a soul-stirring experience.

As a bonus, nearby waterholes like Charitsaub and Gemsbokvlakte offer excellent opportunities to see giraffes and predatory wildlife. 

Day 13: Explore more of Etosha National Park 

On day 13, enjoy a game drive in a different section of the park. 

For example, the eastern area near Namutoni is known for the large herds of herbivores and predators that gather around the Klein Namutoni and Chudop waterholes.

Editor’s tip: wise up on the best time to visit Etosha National Park — the wildlife experiences and landscapes shift around the year.

Day 14: Depart Namibia 

On day 14, this thrilling two weeks in Namibia comes to a close, leaving you with unforgettable memories that are sure to last a lifetime, and — in all likelihood — leaving you longing to book your next trip.

How to book a safari in Namibia

Booking a safari in Namibia involves several stages to make sure you have all bases covered in terms of getting to see what you want to see in a manner that fits with your budget.

While there’s a lot to be said for going it alone on an incredible self-drive safari, in our view booking through an experienced operator or local expert is the best way to go for ease and assurance.

Either way, the first stage is to decide on the regions you’d like to visit to for your Namibia safari, with Etosha National Park, Sossusvlei and Damaraland sitting top of the tree.

To cover them all, as in the two weeks in Namibia itinerary presented above, your best bet is to enlist the services of a reputable tour operator.

You could also contact our local experts to take care of planning and booking a customised safari experience that covers everywhere you want to go. 

How many days in Namibia is enough?

The answer to that question depends on how much you want to see and do. As revealed above, following a well-curated 2-week Namibia itinerary is certainly enough time to enjoy a diversity of experiences, and cover a remarkable range of landscapes. 

You simply need to hone in on the places you most want to see, and figure out how long each destination needs to do it justice.

If you’re still unsure, contact our local experts to have them curate your perfect Namibia itinerary for any duration, bearing in mind that while two weeks is recommended, you can still see a lot in 10 days, or even a week. 

When's the best time to visit Namibia?

On balance, the best time to travel to Namibia is during the cool, dry winter months of May through to October. 

During these months, wildlife watching is at its peak due to the congregation of animals near waterholes.

This period also brings clear skies and pleasant daytime temperatures — perfect conditions for exploring the desert and enjoying outdoor activities. That said, nights can be cold, so it's worth bringing outerwear.

Outside peak season, the rainy summer months of November to April sees Namibia’s landscapes look much lusher. It’s also a great time for bird lovers to visit — the rainy months draw migratory birds.

On the flipside, hotter temperatures and higher humidity can make daytime activity difficult, and some remote areas may be inaccessible due to heavy rains. 

How to get to Namibia

As detailed in our full guide to getting to Namibia, direct flights to Namibia are a very rare thing indeed. For example, traveling to Namibia from the US requires at least one layover.

The primary entry point for international travelers is Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) near Windhoek.

To get here, major US cities like New York, Atlanta and Washington D.C. offer flights with connections through European hubs, including Frankfurt (via Lufthansa) and Amsterdam (via KLM). 

Alternatively, you can connect through Johannesburg, South Africa, and hop on a short regional flight to Windhoek.

As for the travel time, expect it to take 15–20 hour, depending on layovers. 

How to get around Namibia

While getting around Namibia’s few population centers is possible by bus, and even rail in some cases, in order to reach most of the parks, reserves and other places you are most likely to want to visit, you’ll need to book a tour or rent a vehicle.

How much does a trip to Namibia cost?

With accommodation ranging from basic camps and guest houses, to luxurious lodges offering spa services and bespoke tours, the cost of a trip to Namibia can vary a lot.

Add to that trips and tours ranging from basic guided safaris to upmarket transfers by plane and the differences can be pretty huge.

Bridging the gap, here we present a ballpark overview of costs for a two-week Namibia itinerary based on the average costs of mid-range options.

• Accommodation: expect to pay $100–$200 per night to stay in mid-range lodges, guesthouses and hotels
• Food and drink: meals at lodges or restaurants wil cost around $15–$25 per meal, plus you should allow $5–$10 daily for extra drinks and snacks.
• Transport: 4x4 car rental will come out at $70–$120 per day, plus allow $200–$300 for fuel through your 14-day trip.
• Activities and park fees: expect guided safaris, hikes and activities to cost $50–$100 per day, plus allow $10–$15 per person per day for park fees
• Miscellaneous: budget around $100–$200 for souvenirs and tips: 

Total: $3,000–$4,500 per person for two weeks, excluding flights
 

Inspired to visit Namibia? Read up on the best things to do in Namibia, and get yourself The Rough Guide to Namibia.

Keen to go on safari, but not fixed on Namibia? Take inspiration from our Kenya itineraries before planning your trip. 

Not a fan of planning? No problem! Simply contact our local expert to take care of all the details, so you can forget having to handle the hassle of planning and booking your trip.