14 Day Namibia Highlights Family Camping Safari
Namibia Safari
The Namibia family safari is a 14-day adventure specially designed for families with children. Combining both comfortable camping and select accommodation, this itinerary is perfect for those seeking an unforgettable family experience in Namibia.
Key information
- Group safari
- Group size: 3-8 participants
- Starting and ending point: Windhoek
- English-speaking guide
- All park fees are included
Highlights
- Daily game drives
- Chance to see leopards, lions, cheetahs, zebras, and giraffes
- Ride in a pop-up roof 4X4 vehicle
- Visit Okonjima Nature Reserve, Etosha East and South, Palmwag, Brandberg, and Swakopmund
- 13 nights accommodation
- Daily meals
- All park fees included
Types
12 activity days in English
Accommodation
During the safari, you will stay in various accommodations. The tents are canvas dome type, which are easy to assemble. The mattress is approximately five-centimeter thick with its mattress cover, and you will have a camp chair with a backrest. Sleeping bags can be rented by prior arrangement.
- Night 1: Okonjima's Campsite in Okonjima Nature Reserve
- Nights 2 and 3: Namutoni Rest Camp in Etosha East
- Nights 4 and 5: Okaukuejo Camp in Etosha South
- Nights 6 and 7: Hoada Campsite in Palmwag
- Nights 8 and 9: Brandberg White Lady Camping in Brandberg
- Nights 10 and 11: Amanpuri Travellers Lodge in Swakopmund
- Night 12: Sesriem Campsite in Sesriem
Okonjima's Campsite
Camping in Okonjima Nature Reserve epitomises the African safari experience. Your small group or family can become one with nature as they visit the Carnivore Care Centre, track leopards, learn about the indigenous people during the Bushman trail, and grow attuned to the sights, sounds, and ways of Namibia’s grassy plains. The partially-equipped, private campsites share a swimming pool at the foot of the Ombokoro Mountains and are located in the 2000-hectare non-rehabilitation area. All sites boast spectacular sundowner viewpoints.
Okonjima Nature Reserve is recognized as one of the premier places to stay to witness carnivores and other endangered species like the rhino, pangolin, and brown hyena in the wild and to be educated about conservation. The AfriCat Foundation was born in the early 1990’s, a Namibia-registered non-profit organization which started out primarily as a welfare organization, and has since become focused on research projects which are essential in accomplishing its mission of the long term conservation of Namibia’s wildlife.
Namutoni Rest Camp
Namutoni Rest Camp lies within the eastern edge of Etosha National Park, framed by Makalani palms and the historic German fort at its centre. Guests stay in en-suite bush chalets or double rooms, each equipped with a fridge and tea and coffee facilities, with private outdoor areas in the chalets. Meals are served at the on-site restaurant, and the Fort also houses a bar, lounge, and curio shop. Nearby waterholes such as Fischer’s Pan and Chudob offer opportunities to observe flamingos and game, while guided drives provide access to wildlife throughout the day. Leisure facilities include a swimming pool and views of the floodlit King Nehale waterhole.
Okaukuejo Camp
Okaukuejo Camp lies within Etosha National Park, close to the southern Anderson Gate, and serves as the park’s administrative centre. Accommodation includes air-conditioned rooms and chalets equipped with en-suite bathrooms, refrigerators, and tea stations, with select units offering lounge areas and verandas overlooking a floodlit waterhole. Guests can enjoy a selection of meals at the on-site restaurant, providing a comfortable dining experience. Guests can experience the thrill of nearby wildlife sightings, with guided game drives on offer and animals often gathering at the waterhole both day and night. Leisure amenities include a swimming pool, curio shop, and access to the Etosha Ecological Institute.
Hoada Campsite
Hidden among large grey granite boulders and Mopani trees, Hoada Campsite offers travellers a serene home in the wilderness of Namibia. Accommodation includes six luxury campsites with ample designated areas for tents or vehicles with rooftop tents, and permanent tents are available for hire. Each campsite boasts its own braai area and kitchen facilities with running water. There are also ablution facilities, with flush toilets, hidden amongst the rocks.
Brandberg White Lady Camping
Located amidst tranquil surroundings, Brandberg White Lady Camping offers guests a lovely camping experience in Brandberg, Namibia. The establishment features campsites which come equipped with barbecue facilities and water taps. Shared bathrooms with hot and cold water are available. Guests can either cook meals using the barbecue facilities or dine at the nearby lodge restaurant. Other lodge facilities available to campers include a bar and a swimming pool. Guests can also enjoy a variety of guided drives and hiking trails.
Amanpuri Travellers Lodge
Located in Swakopmund, Namibia, Amanpuri Travellers Lodge offers accommodation within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and beaches. In-room amenities include TVs with cable channels, electric kettles, fans, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can kickstart their day with an English breakfast on-site. The hotel also features a bar. Local activities include skydiving, sandboarding, scenic flights, sea kayaking, township tours, and paragliding.
Sesriem Campsite
At the entry to Sossusvlei is Sesriem Canyon. At the foot of the gorge, which plunges down to 30 to 40 meters, are pools that become replenished after good rains. Located perfectly at the entry to Sossusvlei inside the park gate is Sesriem Camping, right beside the gate into the desert and just a short drive from Sesriem Canyon, where centuries of erosion have incised a narrow gorge about one kilometer in length. It is perfect for campers who want to experience the beauty of the Namib Desert with the sun setting over the Elim dune, then the stars emerging until they fill the sky above you and the clicking of the desert barking Geckos and the distant howl of the Jackal. Sit by the fire and imagine what you will.
After a good night's rest its up early (one hour before sunrise) for a drive to the sossusvlei wherer you can climb a sand dune and watch the colours change as the sun rises over the horizon, slipping its morning warmth over the Namib desert dunes. Sesriem derives its name from the time when earlier pioneers tied six lengths of rawhide thongs (riem) together to draw water from the pools. Accommodation at Sesriem is provided in 24 campsites. Facilities found there include a gas station, a convenience store, and a secure parking area.
Program
Itinerary
Day 1: Okonjima Nature Reserve
Pick-up is scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. within Windhoek city. On the first day, you journey north to Okonjima, with a brief stop in the town of Okahandja, renowned for its vibrant craft center. Your destination, Okonjima, is home to the AfriCat Foundation - a leading conservation organization dedicated to the protection of Africa’s big cats, especially cheetahs. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a guided tour where you will meet some of the cheetahs currently undergoing rehabilitation as part of AfriCat’s important work.
Day 2: Etosha East
This morning, you set off early towards Etosha National Park, traveling via Lake Otjikoto - Namibia’s largest permanent natural lake. You will pause here to rest and discover the fascinating history of this unique landmark. Upon arrival at Namutoni, you will set up camp and take some time to get acquainted with the surroundings before embarking on your first game drive during the cool afternoon hours. Etosha offers excellent wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of springbok, zebra, impala, giraffe, gemsbok, and a wide variety of birdlife.
With some luck, you may even encounter elephants and lions up close. Back at camp, unwind with a glass of wine and take in a stunning sunset from the tower of the historic German fort, followed by dinner around the campfire. You will spend two nights camping here, immersed in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 3: Etosha East
Etosha National Park is the highlight of your safari, with the Namutoni area renowned for its exceptional waterholes - offering some of the best opportunities to spot big game in the park. While game drives provide thrilling encounters with Africa’s wildlife, Namutoni offers another unique experience: a floodlit waterhole located right on the camp’s boundary, just a short walk away. This renowned waterhole allows for “after-hours” game viewing and has been described as one of the best wildlife observation spots in Southern Africa. Here, sightings of black rhino, elephant, lion, and a variety of antelope species are common, making every visit unforgettable.
Day 4: Etosha South
Today is dedicated to exploring Etosha’s remarkable wildlife. You will spend much of the day visiting several waterholes, each offering unique opportunities for game viewing. A highlight of the day is a stop at the iconic Etosha Pan, known as the “place of dry water.” This vast, flat salt pan spans around 5,000 square kilometers, creating a surreal landscape of shimmering mirages where large herds of animals gather - making Etosha truly one of Africa’s most unique safari destinations.
You will pause at Halali, the park’s middle camp, to enjoy lunch and some relaxation before continuing south to your next camp at Okaukuejo. After dinner, do not miss the chance to visit Okaukuejo’s famous floodlit waterhole, where you have excellent chances to see rhinos and lions coming to drink. You will spend the next two nights camping at Okaukuejo, soaking in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 5: Etosha South
Today offers a more relaxed pace at Okaukuejo. You may choose to join a morning or afternoon game drive, giving you the flexibility to enjoy the camp’s amenities or simply unwind. Take this opportunity to revisit the waterhole, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters so far.
Day 6: Palmwag
You begin your day with an early morning game drive, making the most of your final hours in Etosha before heading into the dramatic Desert Mountains of the Kaokoveld. This remote region is one of Southern Africa’s last true wilderness areas and is home to the semi-nomadic Himba people. In the afternoon, you will visit a local Oases village, where a knowledgeable guide will join you to facilitate meaningful interactions and provide translation.
During your visit, you will gain insight into the Himba culture - learning about their marriage customs, traditional foods, and the significance of the “holy fire.” Tonight, you settle into your campsite in Damaraland, spending two nights at Hoada Campsite or a similar location, surrounded by the rugged beauty of this remarkable landscape.
Day 7: Palmwag
Today, you will have the opportunity to visit the local Damara people, one of the original inhabitants of Damaraland. This cultural encounter offers a fascinating glimpse into their traditional way of life, customs, and heritage. After your visit, the rest of the day is yours to relax and soak up the tranquil surroundings - perhaps enjoying a refreshing dip in the pool or simply unwinding and taking in the beauty of the area.
Day 8: Brandberg
Today you set off early, journeying deeper into one of Namibia’s most breathtaking desert regions - Damaraland. Along the way, you will stop to marvel at the fascinating Organ Pipes, a striking geological formation, and explore ancient rock engravings that offer a window into the area’s rich history. Your destination is the majestic Brandberg Mountain, an ancient spiritual site for the Bushmen and Namibia’s highest peak. You will spend the night in the shadow of this impressive granite monolith, surrounded by its timeless beauty. Your stay at Brandberg will be for two nights, giving you ample time to soak in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable landscape.
Day 9: Brandberg
This morning, you will set out on a hike to see the famous Brandberg White Lady rock paintings, a remarkable example of ancient San rock art nestled within the mountain’s rugged terrain. You will return to camp just in time for lunch. The afternoon is yours to relax and unwind, enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Later, if conditions allow, you will head out in search of the elusive desert elephants that roam this area - a truly special wildlife experience if you are lucky enough to encounter them.
Day 10: Swakopmund
You are on the move again! Your first stop is the small town of Uis, a former mining settlement and one of the best places in Namibia to shop for semi-precious stones. Here, you will find rough amethyst, tourmaline, and other gems at excellent prices. Continuing your journey, you reach the Atlantic coast and visit Cape Cross, home to a vast colony of fur seals - offering an unforgettable opportunity to observe thousands of these fascinating animals up close.
In the evening, you arrive in Swakopmund, renowned for its superb seafood and vibrant culinary scene. Your guide will offer to organize a group dinner at one of the town’s excellent local restaurants - participation is encouraged, but entirely optional. Please note that dinner is not included in the safari price and will be at your own expense.
Day 11: Swakopmund
Today is your “coast to coast” day as you journey to Walvis Bay. Your first stop is the scenic lagoon area, a haven for birdlife where you can spot flamingoes and a variety of other water birds. With a bit of luck, you may even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the bay. You will also visit the impressive salt works before returning to Swakopmund. The rest of the day is yours to explore this charming seaside town at your leisure.
Swakopmund offers plenty to discover, from its vibrant shops and open-air curio market to a beautiful stretch of beach (though the Atlantic waters here are quite chilly). You might also want to visit the excellent local museum or the Namibian National Marine Aquarium. Both lunch and dinner are at your own expense today, giving you the freedom to sample Swakopmund’s excellent restaurants at your own pace.
Day 12: Sesriem
Today, you leave the coast and head inland once more. You may make a final brief stop in Walvis Bay to bid farewell to the flamingoes before your journey takes you up into the mountains, traversing the dramatic Gaub and Kuiseb passes. The landscape here is truly spectacular - stark, rugged, and almost lunar in appearance. By late afternoon, you will arrive at your camp nestled in the heart of the desert.
To end the day on a high note, you will take a short excursion to the nearby sand dunes, where you will watch the sun set over the sweeping sands. As the light fades, the dunes and surrounding mountains come alive with a breathtaking display of shifting colors. Afterwards, you will return to camp for a relaxing dinner around the campfire, soaking in the tranquility of the desert night.
Day 13: Sesriem
You begin your day with an early start to capture the soft, golden light of sunrise over the desert. Entering Namib Naukluft Park, you journey towards Sossusvlei, flanked by distant sand dunes on either side of the road. Your first stop is the iconic Dune 45 - those feeling adventurous can climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. After breakfast, you will set out on a guided desert walk in the cool of the morning, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as gemsbok, springbok, black-backed jackals, and ostriches. Later, as the heat of the day subsides, you will make a short excursion to explore the fascinating Sesriem Canyon.
Day 14: End of itinerary
After breakfast, you begin your journey back to civilisation, traveling along scenic roads through the picturesque Khomas Hochland Mountain Range. You expect to arrive back in the city in the early afternoon, around 2:00, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.
About the safari
While driving distances have been kept as short as possible (no small feat in a vast country like Namibia), there are still a few longer journeys, but the route is packed with attractions that will delight both adults and children. You will enjoy ‘assisted comfortable camping,’ where the only participation required is helping with the tents. Two nights of accommodation are included during your stay in Swakopmund on the Skeleton Coast, offering a break from camping and a chance to explore this charming coastal town.
Vehicle
- Three to eight guests: Travel in a custom-built nine- to 12-seater 4x4 Land Cruiser featuring a pop-up roof and air conditioning, ideal for game viewing and scenic photography
Location
The safari will take place in Namibia.
Okonjima Nature Reserve
Midway between the spectacular Etosha National Park and the capital city of Windhoek, lies the well-known Okonjima Nature Reserve. The 22,000-hectare nature reserve is home to AfriCAT, a carnivore sanctuary, which gives the captive cats a second chance to be released back into the wild and become completely independent hunters in a protected area right in the middle of commercial cattle farmland. Visitors can enjoy a stay at a variety of excellent accommodation options including everything from luxury villas to secluded camping. Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy thrilling cat-tracking guided safaris, leopard-spotting, off-road night drives, and learn about local San culture along the Bushmen trail.
Etosha East
Located in Northwestern Namibia, Etosha East is a protected sanctuary in the eastern part of the world-renowned Etosha National Park, known as one of the most accessible game reserves in Southern Africa. Etosha East boasts vast open plains scattered with semi-arid savannah grasslands dotted with watering holes and secluded bush camps. An impressive 5000-square-kilometre Etosha salt pan makes up a large area of the eastern side of the park and can even be seen from space. This remote area teems with abundant wildlife such as lions, elephants, black rhinos, and giraffes, as well as a variety of birdlife featuring flamingos, ostriches, eagles, hornbills, and owls.
Etosha South
Located just south of the boundary of Etosha National Park in northwestern Namibia, Etosha South makes up the southern region of this wild paradise. The area comprises a collection of world-class private game reserves. The national park can be accessed via the southern entrance at Andersson’s Gate. Visitors can catch a glimpse of a variety of wildlife including lion, giraffe, elephant, white and black rhino, and a multitude of plains game. Popular activities include: enjoying an open 4x4 safari with an expert guide, half-day or full-day drives with the option of a picnic lunch with wine on the full-day game drive.
Palmwag
Palmwag is a nature reserve idyllically located along a palm-lined tributary of the Uniab River, halfway between Swakopmund and Etosha, providing an ideal base from which to see the sights of the Kunene region or embark on one of the many local hiking trails. Water is scarce in this area, so the river’s presence often lures elephants closer to the camps. The reserve is notable for its unusual species of palm tree, the Hyphaene petersiana, and for being home to the largest population of southwestern black rhinos in Africa. Animal lovers can also get a peek at leopard, lion, cheetah, mountain zebra, Angolan giraffe, springbok, kudu, and African bush elephant.
Swakopmund
Set along Namibia's spectacularly scenic coast, the seaside town of Swakopmund is known for its wide-open avenues, colonial architecture, and its surrounding otherworldly desert terrain. Founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South-West Africa, Swakopmund is often described as being more German than Germany. Now a seaside resort town, Swakopmund is the capital of the Skeleton Coast tourism area and has plenty to keep visitors happy. The quirky mix of German and Namibian influences, adventure options, laid-back atmosphere, and cool sea breeze make it a very popular Namibian destination. Visitors can look forward to several exciting activities, including: quad biking, horse riding, paragliding, fishing, sightseeing, and fascinating desert tours.
Sesriem
As there is no accommodation at Sossusvlei, visitors to this desert wilderness are likely to end up staying at Sesriem, 65 kilometres away, where camps and lodges serve as a base from which to explore the dunes. Sesriem Canyon, a deep chasm carved through the rocks by water, is a striking natural feature of the area that is best explored on foot. Stony walls rise sharply on both sides of the canyon, while birds roost in its crags and lizards dart along the ledges. The canyon’s name was coined when early settlers used it as a water source, using six lengths of leather (‘ses riem – six thongs) tied together to lower buckets into the water at the base of the canyon.)
Food
You will be served daily meals, except in Swakopmund, included in the price. All dinners on camping safaris (unless stipulated) are cooked by your guide on an open fire. Salads and fresh vegetables will be served daily, where readily available. Fresh fruit will also be supplied when possible. Vegetarians and other dietary requirements can be catered to, but please notify Blue Crane Safaris when booking.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
- Other dietary requirements on request
Things to do (optional)
On day 11, for those seeking adventure, a variety of optional activities can be arranged, including:
- Half-day boat tours with opportunities to see seals and dolphins (often accompanied by oysters and champagne)
- Scenic flights and microlight flights over the desert
- Quad-biking into the desert and over the sand dunes
- Sand-boarding, skydiving, and many other exciting experiences
Your guide will discuss all available options with you and can assist with pre-bookings. Please note that all optional activities in Swakopmund are at your own risk and expense.
What's included
- All activities as per itinerary
- Professional English guide and camp assistant guide
- 13 nights accommodation
- 3 meals a day as listed, except in Swakopmund
- All park fees
- Air-conditioned 4x4 safari vehicle
- All camping equipment except sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Medical evacuation insurance
What's not included
- Airfare
- Airport transfers
- Meals in Swakopmund
- Beverages
- Tips
- Personal insurances
- Other personal items
- Sleeping bag rental (40 NAD per day)
- Travel and medical insurance
- Single supplement fee (low season: 1500 ZAR, high season: 1800 ZAR)
- Extra activities
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Transfer not provided
Hosea Kutako International Airport
203 km away from your destination
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 25% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
Reviews
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through BookAllSafaris.com. All major credit cards supported.
Similar Safari Holidays you might like
You recently viewed
