9 Day Etosha, Skeleton Coast and Sossusvlei Camping and Lodge Safari

This 9-day safari through Namibia’s captivating landscapes offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the country’s diverse natural wonders. From the iconic Etosha National Park to the enigmatic Skeleton Coast and the mesmerizing Sossusvlei region, travelers will embark on a journey that combines camping and lodge accommodations, allowing them to fully experience the essence of this remarkable destination. With a focus on wildlife encounters, cultural interactions, and awe-inspiring scenery, this safari promises to leave a lasting impression on even the most seasoned adventurer. What awaits those who embark on this remarkable expedition?

Key Points

• A 9-day safari exploring Etosha National Park, Skeleton Coast, and Sossusvlei, with a combination of 5 nights camping and 3 nights accommodation.
• Includes full-day and afternoon game drives in Etosha, a visit to a Himba village, and exploration of the Sossusvlei region.
• Offers transportation in a custom-built safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, pick-up and drop-off within Windhoek, and all meals and sleeping bags.
• Not recommended for those with limited physical fitness, back problems, or serious medical conditions, and has a maximum group size of 10.
• Starts with pickup from Chameleon Safaris in Windhoek at 7:00 am, providing a convenient starting point for the safari.

Trip Details

This 9-day Etosha, Skeleton Coast, and Sossusvlei camping and lodge safari features a combination of 5 nights of camping and 3 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis.

Travelers will enjoy a full day and an afternoon game drive in Etosha National Park, as well as an experience visiting a Himba village and the Cape Cross Seal Colony.

The tour also includes a day exploring the Sossusvlei region, including a visit to Sesriem Canyon.

Guests will be transported in a custom-built safari vehicle with a pop-up roof and will receive return airport transfers, meals, and camping equipment.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations, and the maximum group size is 10 travelers.

Included in the Safari

The safari includes 5 nights of camping and 3 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis.

Travelers also receive camping equipment, a full day and an afternoon game drive in Etosha National Park, and a Himba Village experience.

Plus, the tour features a visit to the Cape Cross Seal Colony and a day exploring the Sossusvlei region, including Sesriem Canyon.

Throughout the journey, travelers are accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver and guide, and are provided with transportation in a custom-built safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.

The package also includes pick-up and drop-off within Windhoek city limits, as well as return airport transfers, meals, and a sleeping bag.

What to Expect

Travelers should expect this safari to not be wheelchair accessible and may not be recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or individuals with heart conditions or other serious medical conditions. Participants will need to have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience. The safari has a maximum of 10 travelers, so it will be an intimate and personalized adventure.

What to Expect	Description
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Medical Conditions	Not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or individuals with heart conditions or other serious medical conditions
Physical Fitness	Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness
Group Size	Maximum of 10 travelers
Duration	9 days

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour or activity will end back at the meeting point.

This 9-day Namibian safari offers an immersive experience in the country’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Travelers will visit the famous Etosha National Park, the Skeleton Coast, and the stunning Sossusvlei region.

The tour includes a mix of camping and lodge accommodations, as well as various activities such as game drives, a visit to a Himba village, and exploration of the Sesriem Canyon.

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the safari provides a more personalized and intimate experience. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs.

Meeting and Pickup

Guests embark on this 9-day Namibian adventure starting with a pickup from Chameleon Safaris in Windhoek at 7:00 am.

The tour begins in Namibia’s capital city, where travelers are gathered and transported in a custom-built safari vehicle with a pop-up roof. This allows for optimal wildlife viewing during the drives through Etosha National Park, along the Skeleton Coast, and in the Sossusvlei region.

The pickup location in Windhoek’s Ferry Street provides a convenient starting point for the journey, which will include camping, lodge stays, game drives, cultural experiences, and breathtaking natural scenery over the course of the next nine days.

Etosha National Park

On the first full day of the safari, travelers venture into the vast Etosha National Park for a full-day game drive, where they’ve the chance to spot an array of iconic African wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and more.

The guide leads the group through the park’s diverse landscapes, from the shimmering salt pans to the acacia-dotted savannas, keeping an eye out for any animals that may be lurking nearby.

Throughout the day, travelers are treated to breathtaking views and the opportunity to observe the park’s inhabitants in their natural habitat.

As the sun sets, the group returns to the campsite, filled with awe and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of Etosha National Park.

Himba Village Experience

Travelers venture to a remote Himba village, where they enjoy the traditional way of life of this semi-nomadic tribe.

A local guide leads the group through the village, providing insights into the Himba people’s customs, beliefs, and daily routines.

The Himba are known for their distinctive red-ochre-colored skin and elaborate hairstyles, which are an integral part of their cultural identity. Visitors have the opportunity to observe the women adorning themselves with traditional jewelry and headdresses, and to learn about the significance of these practices.

The experience offers a rare glimpse into a vibrant and resilient culture, allowing travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of Namibia’s indigenous communities.

Sossusvlei Region

After visiting the iconic Etosha National Park and the remarkable Skeleton Coast, the safari venture culminates in an exploration of the captivating Sossusvlei region.

This awe-inspiring desert landscape, nestled within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, is renowned for its towering, rust-hued dunes that cast dramatic shadows across the parched, undulating terrain.

Adventurers will have the opportunity to:

• Hike to the top of Dune 45, offering stunning panoramic views
• Marvel at the surreal, salt-encrusted Deadvlei, with its eerie, petrified trees
• Discover the sculptural Sesriem Canyon, carved out by the Tsauchab River
• Witness the sunrise over the desert, casting a warm glow across the dunes

Explore the vast, otherworldly expanse of the Namib Desert, the world’s oldest desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camping Equipment?

Travelers can’t bring their own camping equipment on this tour as the trip includes all necessary camping gear. The tour provides all camping equipment, so participants don’t need to worry about bringing their own.

What Are the Policies for Dietary Restrictions?

The safari operator accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice. Travelers should inform the operator of any special dietary needs, and the guide will make arrangements to provide suitable meals throughout the trip.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Room?

The tour package includes twin-share accommodation, so there is no option to upgrade to a private room. Travelers must share accommodation during the 3 nights of lodge stays on this tour.

Can I Request a Different Pickup Location?

Guests can request a different pickup location, but it may incur an additional fee. The operator aims to accommodate requests where possible, as long as the location is within Windhoek city limits as specified in the tour details.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled at least 7-14 days prior to the start date, with partial or no refunds for later cancellations. Customers should check the specific policy for this tour.

Recap

This comprehensive 9-day Namibian safari provides travelers with an immersive experience across the country’s diverse landscapes.

Witnessing the wildlife of Etosha National Park, engaging with the Himba culture, and exploring the surreal Sossusvlei region, the itinerary offers an authentic and adventurous journey.

With a combination of camping and accommodation, this safari caters to those seeking an unforgettable exploration of Namibia’s natural wonders and cultural richness.