8 Day Etosha Self Drive Adventure

$ pps*

* All prices shown are for low season, per person, on a twin share basis. The prices shown on each itinerary are intended to give you some guidance as to what is possible and to help you budget. They are accurate at the time of being published, but they are not definitive rates and are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. Default prices are USD.

8 days

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Overview

Experience a self-drive adventure to the notorious Etosha National Park, Okonjima & Erongo Mountains. Spend one night at Okonjima’s Africat Foundation, five nights just outside Etosha National Park, and your last night at Hohenstein Lodge (Erongo Mountains) in Damaraland. This safari includes four complementary activities.

Destinations

Windhoek

Windhoek is a captivating destination offering unique experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures for every type of traveler.

Central Namibia

Central Namibia is a hub of cultural and natural wonders, featuring bustling cities, dramatic landscapes, and wildlife-rich reserves. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and comfort.

Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is a captivating destination offering unique experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures for every type of traveler.

Erongo Mountains

Erongo Mountains is a captivating destination offering unique experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures for every type of traveler.

Highlights

Africat Foundation

Learn about conservation efforts for Africa’s big cats and enjoy close-up encounters with elusive predators.

Game drives in Etosha National Park

Do self-drive or guided game drives in Etosha National Park.

Damaraland

Experience rugged terrain and track desert-adapted wildlife. Discover ancient rock art and unique formations.

What's Included?

Meet & Greet On Arrival

4x4 Vehicle Rental

Accommodation

24/7 In-Country Support

Meals & Beverages As Indicated

Complimentary Activities

Luxury Safari Care Package

Fuel (Self-Drive)

International Flights

Personal Travel Insurance

Visas & Visa Applications

Any Items Of Personal Nature

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Day-by-Day Guide

Explore the details of this itinerary, including carefully selected accommodations, curated activities, and unforgettable highlights. Keep in mind that every itinerary we create is fully customisable to match your unique preferences, interests, and budget.

Day 1: Central Namibia

On arrival at Windhoek Airport, you will be met by one of our team members, who will assist you with the collection of your rental vehicle. He will also hand you your complimentary care package. Make your way north to Okonjima Nature Reserve. Here you will spend the night in the Plains Camp; Okonjima is home to the AfriCat Foundation, whose primary focus is the conservation through education, research and rehabilitation of captive cheetahs. An afternoon and early morning game activities are included; make sure to arrive before 16:00.

Accommodation

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Okonjima Plains Camp

Visit website

Optional Activities

Nocturnal Game Drive

Cheetah Encounter

Birding

Nature Walks

Nature/Game Drives

Day 1: Central Namibia

On arrival at Windhoek Airport, you will be met by one of our team members, who will assist you with the collection of your rental vehicle. He will also hand you your complimentary care package. Make your way north to Okonjima Nature Reserve. Here you will spend the night in the Plains Camp; Okonjima is home to the AfriCat Foundation, whose primary focus is the conservation through education, research and rehabilitation of captive cheetahs. An afternoon and early morning game activities are included; make sure to arrive before 16:00.

Accommodation

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Okonjima Plains Camp

Visit website

Optional Activities

Nocturnal Game Drive

Cheetah Encounter

Birding

Nature Walks

Nature/Game Drives

Day 2, 3 & 4: Etosha East

Spend the next three days at your own pace, going for game drives into Etosha National Park or just spending time at the lodge. And if you don’t feel like driving yourself around, we can arrange a scheduled game drive for you, which is one of the activities offered at the lodge.

Accommodation

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Onguma The Fort

Visit website

Optional Activities

Nature/Game Drives

Birding

Etosha Game Drives

Day 2, 3 & 4: Etosha East

Spend the next three days at your own pace, going for game drives into Etosha National Park or just spending time at the lodge. And if you don’t feel like driving yourself around, we can arrange a scheduled game drive for you, which is one of the activities offered at the lodge.

Accommodation

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Onguma The Fort

Visit website

Optional Activities

Nature/Game Drives

Birding

Etosha Game Drives

Day 5 & 6: Etosha South

This is undoubtedly the adventure capital of Namibia. With an almost endless choice of activities! Skydiving, paragliding, sandboarding, or a quad bike tour through the dunes. There is an activity to suit every age group and adrenalin level!You will spend your last two nights in Etosha, just outside the park on the southern border. You can explore the park’s west side, but only on scheduled game drives as it is a restricted area. And these are options that attract additional costs. Or you could take a day and go and visit one of the local Himba tribal villages.

Accommodation

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Toshari Lodge

Visit website

Optional Activities

Birding

Himba Cultural Village Experience

Etosha Game Drives

Day 5 & 6: Etosha South

This is undoubtedly the adventure capital of Namibia. With an almost endless choice of activities! Skydiving, paragliding, sandboarding, or a quad bike tour through the dunes. There is an activity to suit every age group and adrenalin level!You will spend your last two nights in Etosha, just outside the park on the southern border. You can explore the park’s west side, but only on scheduled game drives as it is a restricted area. And these are options that attract additional costs. Or you could take a day and go and visit one of the local Himba tribal villages.

Accommodation

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Toshari Lodge

Visit website

Optional Activities

Birding

Himba Cultural Village Experience

Etosha Game Drives

Day 7: Damaraland

After Etosha, you will head south to Damaraland; here, you will spend the last night of your Namibian safari tour at the foot of the Erongo Mountains. Hohenstein Lodge is located on the bottom of the highest peak of the Erongo mountains. In the evening, spectacular sunsets bathe the mountain in great red light. The view over the vast landscape extends as far as the Spitzkoppe peak, protruding as a prominent relief from the plain. The lodge is the perfect starting point for exciting outings at the Hohenstein and day trips to the Spitzkoppe or the neighbouring Ameib farm.

Accommodation

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Hohenstein Lodge

Visit website

Optional Activities

Hiking Trails

Mountain Biking

Nature Walks

Scenic Sundowner Drives

Day 7: Damaraland

After Etosha, you will head south to Damaraland; here, you will spend the last night of your Namibian safari tour at the foot of the Erongo Mountains. Hohenstein Lodge is located on the bottom of the highest peak of the Erongo mountains. In the evening, spectacular sunsets bathe the mountain in great red light. The view over the vast landscape extends as far as the Spitzkoppe peak, protruding as a prominent relief from the plain. The lodge is the perfect starting point for exciting outings at the Hohenstein and day trips to the Spitzkoppe or the neighbouring Ameib farm.

Accommodation

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Hohenstein Lodge

Visit website

Optional Activities

Hiking Trails

Mountain Biking

Nature Walks

Scenic Sundowner Drives

Day 8: End Of Tour

On arrival in Windhoek, you need to return your rental vehicle. We can either arrange a transfer to the airport or book you one last night in Windhoek before your departure.

Day 8: End Of Tour

On arrival in Windhoek, you need to return your rental vehicle. We can either arrange a transfer to the airport or book you one last night in Windhoek before your departure.

Gallery

Looking to book now?

Our team of expert safari architects specializes in creating personalized, high-end safaris in Namibia that exceed your expectations. From luxury accommodations to unforgettable wildlife encounters, every detail of your safari is tailored to your desires.

ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS SAFARI

ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS SAFARI

Oct 30, 2024

Oct 30, 2024

Oct 30, 2024

"The Secret Namibia Team was amazing to work with, giving us a memorable journey throughout Namibia!"

We gave Chrizell a tall task in planning our self drive Namibia trip. She was quick to connect with us and was thorough in understanding our travel requests, as well as lodging requirements. We were late in our request, but somehow, she was able to put together an amazing trip that had all the key places we wanted. The cost she gave us was very reasonable, and the payment process was very easy to complete (not always so easy with African vendors). We received an initial itinerary that we adjusted a couple of times (due to our requests), and Chrizell and Johan sent us updated agendas as the day approached. We were all set!

When we arrived in Windhoek, we were met in the airport by Secret Namibia, and given a packet with maps, hotel vouchers, some animal and bird identification books. We met with our vehicle provider (Samuel), and he explained the how-to's of driving the (brand new!) vehicle. That was great, as we went through even how to change the tire(s) (we had 2 spares). However, thank goodness, we had zero issues with the vehicle, which also had a cooler in the back for items that needed to be kept cool.

The route we were given optimized our time and travel. Accommodations were great to good, though the latter is all that is available in some remote areas we went to (and likely impacted by our late planning). We had an amazing time in all the places we visited, and would not suggesting skipping any of them. We visited Windhoek, Kalahari, Fish Canyon, Klein Aus (wild horses), Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Palmwag Etosha NP, and Waterberg. The 3 weeks went very fast, and we truly enjoyed the self driving aspect of the trip. We specifically enjoyed doing the self drive safari in Etosha, where we went where we wanted, as well as stayed as long as we wanted, in the park. Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei (you gotta climb Big Daddy Dune, and then the rush of going down it!), and Kalahari also stood out for us.

Watchouts on the trip are the number and locations of gas stations, lots of unpaved roads (we enjoyed this actually), and poor cell/wifi coverage in remote areas (which is to be expected). We actually had some wifi coverage in our vehicle, which was really helpful!

We have already recommended Secret Namibia to friends who have inquired. The excellent service, the freedom of self driving, and excellent pricing, make them an easy referral for us!

We gave Chrizell a tall task in planning our self drive Namibia trip. She was quick to connect with us and was thorough in understanding our travel requests, as well as lodging requirements. We were late in our request, but somehow, she was able to put together an amazing trip that had all the key places we wanted. The cost she gave us was very reasonable, and the payment process was very easy to complete (not always so easy with African vendors). We received an initial itinerary that we adjusted a couple of times (due to our requests), and Chrizell and Johan sent us updated agendas as the day approached. We were all set!

When we arrived in Windhoek, we were met in the airport by Secret Namibia, and given a packet with maps, hotel vouchers, some animal and bird identification books. We met with our vehicle provider (Samuel), and he explained the how-to's of driving the (brand new!) vehicle. That was great, as we went through even how to change the tire(s) (we had 2 spares). However, thank goodness, we had zero issues with the vehicle, which also had a cooler in the back for items that needed to be kept cool.

The route we were given optimized our time and travel. Accommodations were great to good, though the latter is all that is available in some remote areas we went to (and likely impacted by our late planning). We had an amazing time in all the places we visited, and would not suggesting skipping any of them. We visited Windhoek, Kalahari, Fish Canyon, Klein Aus (wild horses), Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Palmwag Etosha NP, and Waterberg. The 3 weeks went very fast, and we truly enjoyed the self driving aspect of the trip. We specifically enjoyed doing the self drive safari in Etosha, where we went where we wanted, as well as stayed as long as we wanted, in the park. Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei (you gotta climb Big Daddy Dune, and then the rush of going down it!), and Kalahari also stood out for us.

Watchouts on the trip are the number and locations of gas stations, lots of unpaved roads (we enjoyed this actually), and poor cell/wifi coverage in remote areas (which is to be expected). We actually had some wifi coverage in our vehicle, which was really helpful!

We have already recommended Secret Namibia to friends who have inquired. The excellent service, the freedom of self driving, and excellent pricing, make them an easy referral for us!

We gave Chrizell a tall task in planning our self drive Namibia trip. She was quick to connect with us and was thorough in understanding our travel requests, as well as lodging requirements. We were late in our request, but somehow, she was able to put together an amazing trip that had all the key places we wanted. The cost she gave us was very reasonable, and the payment process was very easy to complete (not always so easy with African vendors). We received an initial itinerary that we adjusted a couple of times (due to our requests), and Chrizell and Johan sent us updated agendas as the day approached. We were all set!

When we arrived in Windhoek, we were met in the airport by Secret Namibia, and given a packet with maps, hotel vouchers, some animal and bird identification books. We met with our vehicle provider (Samuel), and he explained the how-to's of driving the (brand new!) vehicle. That was great, as we went through even how to change the tire(s) (we had 2 spares). However, thank goodness, we had zero issues with the vehicle, which also had a cooler in the back for items that needed to be kept cool.

The route we were given optimized our time and travel. Accommodations were great to good, though the latter is all that is available in some remote areas we went to (and likely impacted by our late planning). We had an amazing time in all the places we visited, and would not suggesting skipping any of them. We visited Windhoek, Kalahari, Fish Canyon, Klein Aus (wild horses), Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Palmwag Etosha NP, and Waterberg. The 3 weeks went very fast, and we truly enjoyed the self driving aspect of the trip. We specifically enjoyed doing the self drive safari in Etosha, where we went where we wanted, as well as stayed as long as we wanted, in the park. Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei (you gotta climb Big Daddy Dune, and then the rush of going down it!), and Kalahari also stood out for us.

Watchouts on the trip are the number and locations of gas stations, lots of unpaved roads (we enjoyed this actually), and poor cell/wifi coverage in remote areas (which is to be expected). We actually had some wifi coverage in our vehicle, which was really helpful!

We have already recommended Secret Namibia to friends who have inquired. The excellent service, the freedom of self driving, and excellent pricing, make them an easy referral for us!

US

Oct 19, 2024

Oct 19, 2024

Oct 19, 2024

"Secret Namibia organised a wonderful tour that met all our requirements."

The video call to set up what we wanted to do was really useful. All the arrangements, hotels and travel plans, were of a high standard. In country support was great. They even organised a new hotel when we didn’t drive far enough.

Oct 16, 2024

Oct 16, 2024

Oct 16, 2024

"Dream Honeymoon Thanks To Secret Namibia"

Our honeymoon in Namibia was a dream come true, thanks to Secret Namibia.

Everything was flawlessly planned, from the smooth transfers between our lodges to the personalized suggestions for the best activities.

Johan ensured we had a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, whether it was exploring the dunes or unwinding in the peaceful, romantic settings.

The communication throughout was exceptional, making us feel completely at ease. After all the wedding events we really needed to just switch off and the whole trip was awesome- better than we could have imagined.

We’re already discussing returning for our anniversary as we've heard about a combined safari they offer that includes a visit to Vic falls.

We’ll definitely be booking with Secret Namibia again! Huge Thanks.

Our honeymoon in Namibia was a dream come true, thanks to Secret Namibia.

Everything was flawlessly planned, from the smooth transfers between our lodges to the personalized suggestions for the best activities.

Johan ensured we had a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, whether it was exploring the dunes or unwinding in the peaceful, romantic settings.

The communication throughout was exceptional, making us feel completely at ease. After all the wedding events we really needed to just switch off and the whole trip was awesome- better than we could have imagined.

We’re already discussing returning for our anniversary as we've heard about a combined safari they offer that includes a visit to Vic falls.

We’ll definitely be booking with Secret Namibia again! Huge Thanks.

Our honeymoon in Namibia was a dream come true, thanks to Secret Namibia.

Everything was flawlessly planned, from the smooth transfers between our lodges to the personalized suggestions for the best activities.

Johan ensured we had a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, whether it was exploring the dunes or unwinding in the peaceful, romantic settings.

The communication throughout was exceptional, making us feel completely at ease. After all the wedding events we really needed to just switch off and the whole trip was awesome- better than we could have imagined.

We’re already discussing returning for our anniversary as we've heard about a combined safari they offer that includes a visit to Vic falls.

We’ll definitely be booking with Secret Namibia again! Huge Thanks.

Oct 16, 2024

Oct 16, 2024

Oct 16, 2024

"Tour well planned and trouble free"

16 days Namibia safari planned in every details. Really good choice of lodges. Cars in perfect conditions. Strongly suggested

Italy

Oct 13, 2024

Oct 13, 2024

Oct 13, 2024

"Seamless planning and perfect execution"

A boutique travel agent in Namibia that understand its customer needs and finds way to satisfy the customer wishes. We spent a wonderful and amazing two weeks roaming across central and Western Namibia (not Skeleton Coast) and spent nights in extraordinary lodges. A dream come true.

Nicole & Frederic

Chile

Oct 9, 2024

Oct 9, 2024

Oct 9, 2024

"Superb Family Safari. Service & Support Outstanding."

Took the family on a safari to Namibia this summer and it completely exceeded our expectations. After doing a lot of research online, SecretNamibia stood out as the best option for families, and we couldn’t have been more pleased with our choice. Johan and his team made sure every detail was covered, and from the moment we booked, it was clear we were in expert hands.

Travelling with our two children, we were looking for a balance of adventure and comfort, and SecretNamibia delivered exactly that. They arranged everything, from the brilliant lodges to the smooth transitions between locations, making the entire trip effortless. Namibia is an unbelievably beautiful country, and each part of our journey brought something new.

In Etosha National Park, the wildlife was amazing – seeing lions, elephants, and giraffes up close was a dream come true, especially for the kids. But it wasn’t just the game drives that made the trip so memorable. SecretNamibia organised a range of activities that catered to the whole family, including guided nature walks and a special helicopter flight over the Namib Desert. Watching the sunrise over the dunes from above was absolutely breathtaking.

Our stay at the NamibRand Nature Reserve was a highlight, where we were able to relax and take in the landscapes. The combination of adventure and pure luxury made it feel like a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Johan’s expertise and care in planning meant we were able to focus on enjoying every moment. Unlike other tour organisers, Secret Namibia are also based in Namibia which put us massively at ease in case anything went wrong (it didn't!).

If you’re thinking of a family safari, you'll be really taken care of with SecretNamibia. They made sure every part of our trip was extra special, and we left Namibia with about a million photos and memories we’ll cherish forever! 10/10 experience!

Took the family on a safari to Namibia this summer and it completely exceeded our expectations. After doing a lot of research online, SecretNamibia stood out as the best option for families, and we couldn’t have been more pleased with our choice. Johan and his team made sure every detail was covered, and from the moment we booked, it was clear we were in expert hands.

Travelling with our two children, we were looking for a balance of adventure and comfort, and SecretNamibia delivered exactly that. They arranged everything, from the brilliant lodges to the smooth transitions between locations, making the entire trip effortless. Namibia is an unbelievably beautiful country, and each part of our journey brought something new.

In Etosha National Park, the wildlife was amazing – seeing lions, elephants, and giraffes up close was a dream come true, especially for the kids. But it wasn’t just the game drives that made the trip so memorable. SecretNamibia organised a range of activities that catered to the whole family, including guided nature walks and a special helicopter flight over the Namib Desert. Watching the sunrise over the dunes from above was absolutely breathtaking.

Our stay at the NamibRand Nature Reserve was a highlight, where we were able to relax and take in the landscapes. The combination of adventure and pure luxury made it feel like a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Johan’s expertise and care in planning meant we were able to focus on enjoying every moment. Unlike other tour organisers, Secret Namibia are also based in Namibia which put us massively at ease in case anything went wrong (it didn't!).

If you’re thinking of a family safari, you'll be really taken care of with SecretNamibia. They made sure every part of our trip was extra special, and we left Namibia with about a million photos and memories we’ll cherish forever! 10/10 experience!

Took the family on a safari to Namibia this summer and it completely exceeded our expectations. After doing a lot of research online, SecretNamibia stood out as the best option for families, and we couldn’t have been more pleased with our choice. Johan and his team made sure every detail was covered, and from the moment we booked, it was clear we were in expert hands.

Travelling with our two children, we were looking for a balance of adventure and comfort, and SecretNamibia delivered exactly that. They arranged everything, from the brilliant lodges to the smooth transitions between locations, making the entire trip effortless. Namibia is an unbelievably beautiful country, and each part of our journey brought something new.

In Etosha National Park, the wildlife was amazing – seeing lions, elephants, and giraffes up close was a dream come true, especially for the kids. But it wasn’t just the game drives that made the trip so memorable. SecretNamibia organised a range of activities that catered to the whole family, including guided nature walks and a special helicopter flight over the Namib Desert. Watching the sunrise over the dunes from above was absolutely breathtaking.

Our stay at the NamibRand Nature Reserve was a highlight, where we were able to relax and take in the landscapes. The combination of adventure and pure luxury made it feel like a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Johan’s expertise and care in planning meant we were able to focus on enjoying every moment. Unlike other tour organisers, Secret Namibia are also based in Namibia which put us massively at ease in case anything went wrong (it didn't!).

If you’re thinking of a family safari, you'll be really taken care of with SecretNamibia. They made sure every part of our trip was extra special, and we left Namibia with about a million photos and memories we’ll cherish forever! 10/10 experience!

UK

Plan with peace of mind

Secret Namibia was born from a simple idea: travellers deserve authentic, expertly crafted safari experiences designed by locals who know Namibia best. After seeing too many clients book through overseas tour operators with limited on-the-ground knowledge and inflated prices, we set out to create something different—a locally based safari company driven by passion, expertise, and a deep love for Africa.

Our team of dedicated safari architects, guides, and trusted suppliers share a common purpose: to craft unforgettable journeys that connect you with Namibia’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and iconic wildlife. Every experience is tailored with care, ensuring that your safari adventure is as unique and extraordinary as the country itself.

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8 Day Etosha Self Drive Adventure

8 Day Etosha Self Drive Adventure

8 Day Etosha Self Drive Adventure