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20 Days Encyclopedia of Africa

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Embark on the ultimate cross-border African odyssey on this 20-Day Encyclopedia of Africa Guided Lodge Tour starting in Windhoek and ending in Victoria Falls. This comprehensive grand expedition traverses Southern Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes, beginning with sunset game drives and Bushman cultural walks in the Kalahari Desert. Journey south to marvel at the Fish River Canyon, explore the coastal history of Lüderitz and the ghost town of Kolmanskop, and discover the towering red sand dunes of Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, and Sesriem Canyon.

Continue to the Atlantic coast for marine cruises and dune adventures in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, before traveling north into Damaraland to view ancient rock art at Twyfelfontein. Spend multiple immersive days tracking wildlife across the vast salt pans and active waterholes of Etosha National Park from Okaukuejo to Namutoni. Push eastward into the lush Zambezi Region to Rundu and Divundu for serene river safaris along the Okavango River, enjoy full-day game drives in Mahango National Park, cross into Botswana for thrilling wildlife viewing in Chobe National Park, and conclude your epic journey with a guided tour of the majestic Victoria Falls.

Fully Customizable Safari: Your tour is 100% customizable to suit your preferences, interests and budget. We can adjust your route, activities, accommodation and travel pace to create your ideal safari.

Accommodation Standard: The advertised price is based on standard accommodation equivalent to approximately 3-star quality in Namibia. Luxury upgrades are available on request for travellers with a higher budget. All accommodation is subject to availability at the time of booking.

Pricing: All prices are quoted per person sharing. Travelling solo? Contact us for a personalized quotation, as single occupancy and private travel arrangements may increase the price per person.

Flexible Installment Payments: Secure your safari with a deposit, then pay the remaining balance in installments according to an agreed payment schedule.

Personalized Professional Guidance: Understanding an itinerary involves more than reading a programme. Our experienced safari consultants will explain your route, accommodation, activities and travel arrangements, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.

Ready to Plan Your Adventure? Contact your Motema Tours & Safaris consultant today to arrange a meeting and discuss your itinerary. We will answer your questions, clarify the details and help you prepare for an unforgettable journey through Namibia.

Included/Excluded

  • Professional Guide / Chauffeur
  • Accommodation as stated in the program
  • Meals as stated in the program
  • The rental vehicle with all risk insured
  • Fuel for Vehicle
  • The Activities or Visits as STATED in the Program as INCLUDED
  • Entry fees to National Parks
  • Namibian VAT
  • International flights
  • Personal Purchases
  • Entry fees to neighboring countries such as Zimbabwe
  • Drinks, which are the responsibility of travelers
  • Tips and gratitudes
  • Personal Medical Insurance and Repatriation (Very Important)
  • Optional Activities / Additional Activities

Tour Plan

Day 01 Windhoek - Kalahari | Afternoon Game Drive

Included Activity: Afternoon Game Drive in the Kalahari
Optional Activity: Sunset Dune Walk
Distance: 300 km | 3H00
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge or Similar

Departing from Windhoek, you travel south into the wide open landscapes of southern Namibia, gradually leaving the capital behind as the scenery transitions into the distinctive environment of the Kalahari Desert. The route passes through rural settlements and expansive plains before revealing the iconic red sands and camelthorn-dotted terrain that define this region. The drive offers a relaxed introduction to Namibia’s sense of space and natural diversity.

Upon arrival at your accommodation in the Kalahari, take time to settle in before heading out on an afternoon game drive. This first safari experience introduces the unique desert-adapted wildlife of the region, with opportunities to encounter species such as oryx, springbok, and giraffe. As the sun lowers, the warm light enhances the deep reds and golden tones of the dunes, creating a calm and memorable start to your journey.

Day 02 Kalahari Desert | Bushman Walk and Afternoon Game Drive

Included Activity: Morning Bushman Walk | Afternoon Game Drive in the Kalahari
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: Surroundings
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Camelthorn Kalahari Lodge or Similar

After an early breakfast, set out on a Bushman walk guided by local San people. This experience offers a window into their traditional lifestyle, survival techniques, and ancestral knowledge of the land. As you move through the desert, learn about edible plants, observe animal tracks, and discover how the San have adapted to life in this environment over countless generations. Their stories and demonstrations provide a meaningful connection to one of the world’s oldest cultures.

In the afternoon, embark on a game drive through the vast red dunes and open plains of the Kalahari. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as oryx, springbok, giraffes. Your guide will share insights into animal behavior and the delicate balance that sustains life in this semi-arid region. The shifting light of the late afternoon creates beautiful photographic moments as the landscape glows in soft golden tones.

Day 3 Desert Kalahari - Fish River Canyon | Quiver Tree Forest & Fish River Canyon

Included Activity: Quiver Tree Forest Visit | Fish River Canyon Sunset Viewpoint
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 448 km | 5H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Canyon Lodge or Similar

After breakfast, depart for a morning visit to the Quiver Tree Forest, a remarkable landscape filled with towering aloe trees found only in southern Africa. Walk among these sculptural giants and learn about their botanical importance, local folklore, and traditional uses by communities who have lived in the region for generations. The unusual shapes and warm desert light make this an excellent place for photography and a beautiful introduction to Namibia’s unique plant life.

In the afternoon, continue your journey toward the Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world. Arrive in time to witness the canyon at sunset, when the rugged cliffs and deep chasms glow in vivid shades of gold and red. This peaceful moment offers an inspiring perspective on the scale and beauty of Namibia’s landscapes and provides an ideal opportunity for memorable photographs.

Day 04 Fish River Canyon - Lüderitz | Sunrise Views & Wild Horses

Included Activity: Sunrise at Fish River Canyon | Wild Horses stop at Garub
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 423 km | 4H30
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Luderitz Nest Hotel or Similar

Begin your morning early to experience the unforgettable sunrise over Fish River Canyon. As the first light spreads across the vast cliffs and rugged formations, the canyon reveals striking colours and textures, offering a serene and inspiring start to the day.

After breakfast, begin your journey toward Lüderitz. Along the way, stop at the Garub viewpoint to observe the famous Namib Desert Wild Horses. These free-roaming horses are a remarkable sight in the stark desert surroundings, often gathering near the water point where they can be quietly observed and photographed.

Continue your drive to Lüderitz, where the Atlantic coastline meets sweeping desert landscapes. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your own pace.

 

 

Day 05 Lüderitz - Sossusvlei | Kolmanskop & Namib Wild Horses

Included Activity: Kolmanskop Ghost Town | Namib Wild Horses
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 500 km | 6H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: The Elegant Desert Lodge or Similar

After breakfast in Lüderitz, begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Kolmanskop Ghost Town, once a flourishing diamond mining settlement and now an atmospheric reminder of Namibia’s past. Wander through the abandoned, sand-filled buildings as your guide explains the rise and decline of the diamond era, offering fascinating insights and excellent photography opportunities in this surreal desert setting.

Continue your journey with a stop to view the wild horses of the Namib Desert, known for their resilience and unique adaptation to the harsh environment. Watching these free-roaming horses against the stark desert backdrop is a memorable and moving experience.

After the visit, depart toward Sossusvlei, travelling through dramatic desert landscapes, red dunes, and dry riverbeds. Keep an eye out for oryx, springbok, and other desert wildlife as you move deeper into the Namib. Arrive at your accommodation in the late afternoon and take time to relax while enjoying the vast and peaceful surroundings of the desert.

Day 06 Deadvlei | Sossusvlei | Dune 40–45 | Sesriem Canyon

Included Activity: Sossusvlei | Deadvlei | Dune 40–45 | Sesriem Canyon
Optional Activity: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight | Scenic Flight
Distance: 60 km | 1H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: The Elegant Desert Lodge or Similar

Wake up early to experience the sunrise over the Namib Desert, when the first light of the day transforms the dunes into a palette of deep reds and warm golden tones. After breakfast, continue toward the Sossusvlei area to explore some of the region’s most iconic dune formations, including Dune 45 and the surrounding dune belt. Those who wish may climb one of the dunes for sweeping views across the desert, where the vastness of the landscape becomes truly evident.

Continue onward to Deadvlei, a striking white clay pan surrounded by towering dunes. The ancient, fossilized trees scattered across the pan create a surreal and unforgettable scene, offering exceptional opportunities for photography and quiet appreciation of this unique environment.

Afterward, visit Sesriem Canyon, a narrow gorge formed by thousands of years of erosion by the Tsauchab River. A short walk into the canyon reveals layered rock formations and cool, shaded passageways that highlight the geological history of the region.

Day 07 Sossusvlei - Swakopmund | Scenic Desert Transfer

Included Activity: Solitaire | Tropic of Capricorn | Gaub Pass | Kuiseb Pass
Optional Activity: Quad Biking | Scenic flight over the desert
Distance: 350 km | 5H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Bay View Resort or Similar

After breakfast in the Sossusvlei area, travel toward the coastal town of Swakopmund along one of Namibia’s most scenic routes. The journey passes through the small desert settlement of Solitaire, known for its rustic character, quiet atmosphere, and well-loved bakery. This stop provides an ideal moment for refreshments, photographs, and appreciation of the surrounding desert solitude.

Continue across the Tropic of Capricorn, an iconic geographic marker signalling the transition into Namibia’s subtropical zone. A brief pause here offers a memorable photo opportunity as well as sweeping views of the wide-open desert plains.

The route then winds through the dramatic Gaub Pass and Kuiseb Pass, where layered rock formations and rugged terrain create some of the country’s most striking scenery. Along the way, there may be chances to observe oryx, springbok, and other desert-adapted wildlife moving across the plains. Each pass presents scenic viewpoints that highlight the contrasting colors and textures of the Namib Desert.

Upon arrival in Swakopmund, settle in and enjoy the refreshing coastal climate. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town, stroll along the shoreline, or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this charming Atlantic destination.

Day 08 Swakopmund - Damaraland

Included Activity: Walvis Bay Boat Cruise & Sandwich Harbour
Optional Activity: Quad biking | Scenic flight
Distance: 35 km | 30 mins
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Bay View Resort or Similar

Depart from Swakopmund in the morning and travel to Walvis Bay for a full-day excursion combining a boat cruise with an adventurous 4x4 expedition to Sandwich Harbour.

Begin with a boat cruise on Walvis Bay Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. Keep an eye out for dolphins, Cape fur seals, pelicans and other marine life while enjoying the views of the coastline and surrounding desert.

After the cruise, continue towards Sandwich Harbour, where the towering dunes of the Namib Desert meet the Atlantic Ocean. Travel by 4x4 through the dunes and along the coastline, stopping at spectacular viewpoints for photography and to appreciate this unique desert environment.

After the excursion, return to Swakopmund in the late afternoon or early evening.

Day 09 Swakopmund - Damaraland | Desert Landscapes and Rock Art

Included Activity: Twyfelfontein rock engravings visit
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 333 km | 4H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Twyfelfontein Country Lodge or Similar

After breakfast, depart Swakopmund and travel north toward the rugged and captivating landscapes of Damaraland. The journey reveals ever-changing scenery, from open plains to rocky outcrops and ancient desert formations. Along the way, watch for wildlife adapted to this arid environment, including desert-adapted elephants, oryx, and springbok moving gracefully across the terrain.

Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and prepare for an afternoon visit to Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable rock engravings. Wander among the ancient carvings depicting animals, human figures, and symbolic patterns, created by the San people thousands of years ago. Your guide will provide insights into the cultural and historical significance of this extraordinary site, offering a unique window into Namibia’s prehistoric heritage.

After the visit, return to your accommodation to relax and enjoy dinner, reflecting on the striking landscapes and rich cultural legacy that make Damaraland so remarkable.

Day 10 Damaraland - Etosha | Himba Visit and Etosha Game Drive

Included Activity: Himba village visit | Afternoon Game Drive in Etosha
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 350 km | 4H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Toshari Lodge or Similar

After breakfast in Damaraland, begin the day with a visit to a Himba village. Meet the Himba people, one of Namibia’s most iconic indigenous groups, and gain insight into their traditional way of life, customs, and distinctive hairstyles and body adornments. Your guide will explain the cultural significance of their practices and daily routines, offering a unique and respectful perspective on this fascinating community.

Following the cultural experience, continue your journey to Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive across the park’s vast salt pans, woodlands, and savannahs. Keep an eye out for elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species as they move through this iconic landscape. The afternoon light creates exceptional photographic opportunities, with the Etosha plains bathed in warm golden hues as the sun begins to set.

Day 11 Etosha National Park | Full-Day Safari

Included Activity: Full-Day Safari in Etosha National Park with Own Vehicle
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: Surroundings
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Toshari Lodge or Similar

After an early breakfast, set out for a full-day safari across Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Your journey takes you through a rich variety of landscapes that define the park, including the vast shimmering salt pan, open savannahs stretching into the horizon, and patches of mopane woodland where wildlife often hides in the shade. The day unfolds at a relaxed pace, giving you the time to appreciate each sighting and enjoy the natural rhythm of the bush.

Throughout the day, you may encounter elephants moving gracefully between waterholes, lions resting after a night of activity, giraffes feeding on acacia trees, zebras crossing the plains in tight family groups, and many species of antelope grazing in the golden light. Your guide shares valuable insights into their behaviors, ecological roles, and the challenges of conservation in such a dynamic environment. Waterholes become focal points for life, offering close and unforgettable moments as animals gather to drink and interact.

The afternoon continues with more exploration, ensuring a well-rounded discovery of Etosha’s ecosystems and wildlife.

Day 12 Okaukuejo - Namutoni | Full-Day Safari

Included Activity: Full-day safari while transiting from Okaukuejo to Namutoni
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 150 km | 3H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Namutoni Resort or Similar

Today is dedicated to a full-day safari across Etosha National Park as you travel from Okaukuejo to Namutoni. Departing in the morning, the route takes you through the heart of the park, offering extensive game viewing opportunities along the way. The vast Etosha Pan dominates the landscape, contrasting with open grasslands, saline flats, and scattered waterholes that attract a wide variety of wildlife.

Throughout the day, enjoy game viewing at your own pace, with time to stop at key waterholes where animals often gather. Etosha is renowned for its concentrations of elephant, giraffe, zebra, springbok, and numerous predators, making each stop an opportunity for rewarding sightings. By late afternoon, arrive in the eastern section of the park and continue to Namutoni, where you settle into your accommodation and reflect on a day rich in wildlife encounters.

Day 13 Namutoni | Game Drive in Etosha National Park

Included Activity: Full-Day Game Drive in Namutoni area of Etosha with Own Vehicle
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: Surroundings
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Namutoni Resort or Similar

After breakfast, depart for the eastern side of Etosha National Park and make your way toward Namutoni, an area known for its rich wildlife and the historic German fort that stands as a landmark in this region. The landscapes gradually open into broad savannahs, scattered woodlands, and white salt pans that create striking contrasts and excellent wildlife visibility. As you enter the area, the adventure begins immediately, with the chance to spot animals moving across the open plains.

Spend the day on a game drive around Namutoni’s well-known waterholes and wildlife-rich routes. Elephants may be seen moving in steady lines toward water, lions often rest near the edges of the pans, and giraffes browse quietly on tall acacia trees. Herds of zebras and various antelope species add movement and color to the landscape. Your guide shares valuable insights into animal behavior, the ecological balance of the park, and ongoing conservation initiatives that protect Etosha’s unique ecosystems. Waterholes become natural theatres of life, offering excellent opportunities for photography and peaceful wildlife observation.

Day 14 Namutoni - Rundu | Okavango River Boat Cruise

Included Activity: Okavango River Boat Cruise
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 430 km | 5H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Hakusembe River Lodge or Similar

After breakfast, depart from your previous location and continue north toward Rundu, a town situated along the banks of the Okavango River. The drive offers changing landscapes, from open plains to riverine forests, providing a glimpse of Namibia’s diverse natural scenery and occasional wildlife sightings along the way.

Upon arrival in Rundu, settle into your accommodation and take a moment to relax. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the Okavango River. Glide along the calm waters while observing the lush riverside vegetation and abundant birdlife. The gentle current and serene atmosphere provide the perfect introduction to this unique region, offering opportunities for photography and quiet reflection on the natural beauty surrounding you.

Day 15 Rundu - Divundu | Okavango Delta Sunset Cruise

Included Activity: Sunset Cruise on the Okavango Delta
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 200 km | 2H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Shametu River Lodge or Similar

After breakfast in Rundu, depart for Divundu, a scenic area on the edge of the Okavango Delta. The drive passes through lush riverine landscapes, small villages, and areas rich in birdlife, offering a gradual and picturesque introduction to the delta region.

In the afternoon, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Okavango Delta. Glide quietly along the waterways in a traditional boat while observing hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. As the sun casts a warm golden light over the floodplains, take in the peaceful atmosphere, capture photographs, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this remarkable ecosystem.

Return to your accommodation in Divundu for dinner and a serene evening under the African sky.

Day 16 Full-Day Game Drive in Mahango National Park

Included Activity: Full-Day Game Drive in Mahango National Park
Optional Activity: Scenic flight over the Okavango Delta | Cultural village visit | Local craft market exploration
Distance: Surroundings
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: Shametu River Lodge or Similar

After an early breakfast, embark on a full-day game drive in Mahango National Park, located in the northeastern corner of Namibia. The park’s floodplains, riverine forests, and woodlands provide habitats for elephants, hippos, buffalo, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species. Birdlife is abundant, making this a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Your experienced guide will share insights into the park’s unique ecosystem, animal behavior, and ongoing conservation efforts. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush. The day offers ample opportunities for photography, wildlife spotting, and fully immersing yourself in the beauty of the Okavango region.

Day 17 Mahango - Chobe | Free Afternoon

Included Activity: Route to Kasane | Chobe
Optional Activity: Sunset Cruise Safari
Distance: 433 km | 5H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: River View Lodge or Similar

Departing from the Mahango area, you travel eastward toward Chobe, crossing from Namibia into Botswana. The journey follows the fertile river landscapes of the Zambezi and Chobe regions, where vegetation becomes noticeably greener and wildlife sightings may occur along the route. This transition from the open floodplains of Mahango to the riverine forests of Chobe highlights the ecological diversity of this part of southern Africa.

Upon arrival in Chobe, check in at your accommodation and enjoy a free afternoon at leisure. This is an ideal time to relax after the drive, take in views of the surrounding landscape, or explore the area at your own pace. The slower pace of the afternoon allows you to unwind and prepare for the wildlife experiences that await in Chobe National Park.

Day 18 Chobe National Park | Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Cruise

Included Activity: Morning Game Drive | Afternoon Boat Cruise Safari
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: Surroundings
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: River View Lodge or Similar

Start your day early as the bush slowly awakens with the first golden light. Embark on a morning game drive through the vast wilderness of Chobe National Park, where the crisp air carries the sounds of wildlife greeting the new day. Watch elephants moving across the plains, observe lions resting after a night of activity, and spot a wide variety of bird species perched among the trees. Every moment offers a chance to witness the natural rhythm of this remarkable ecosystem.

After lunch and a short rest at your accommodation, continue the adventure with an afternoon boat cruise along the Chobe River. As the sun begins to set, the water reflects shades of gold and amber, creating one of the most captivating scenes in Botswana. Hippos surface in the shallows, crocodiles bask along the riverbanks, and elephants gather for their evening drink. The calm drift of the boat provides the perfect ending to a day filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Day 19 Chobe - Victoria Falls | Visit of the Falls

Included Activity: Visit of Victoria Falls
Optional Activity: Helicopter Flight over the Falls | Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River | Lion Experience
Distance: 90 km | 1H00
Meals: Breakfast | Dinner
Accommodation: A'Zambezi River Lodge or Similar

After breakfast, depart Chobe and drive toward Victoria Falls, crossing the border into Zimbabwe. The journey takes you through the scenic landscapes of northern Botswana and the border region, offering glimpses of riverine vegetation and occasional wildlife along the way. Upon arrival in Victoria Falls, check into your accommodation and prepare for one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.

Spend the afternoon exploring Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya – “The Smoke That Thunders.” Walk along the network of trails and viewpoints that offer spectacular perspectives of the cascading waters, surrounded by lush rainforest nourished by the constant spray. The thunderous roar, misty rainbows, and sheer power of the falls create an unforgettable experience and a perfect opportunity for photography.

Day 20 Chobe - Victoria Falls | Visit of the Falls

Included Activity: Transfer to Victoria Falls Airport
Optional Activity: NONE
Distance: 10 km | 20 mins
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: NONE

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at your accommodation, taking the time to savor the final moments of your journey. Later, you are transferred to Victoria Falls Airport for your onward flight. Use this time to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past days from thrilling wildlife encounters in Botswana’s national parks and the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta to the awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria Falls.

This marks the conclusion of your unforgettable adventure, leaving you with lasting memories, stunning photographs, and stories to share for years to come.

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