Self-drive Safaris
Namibia is
ideal for independent adventurers - it has an excellent network of roads
by African standards with tar links between major towns and nearly
60000km of good secondary gravel roads. Distances between attractions
are immense, suitable time allowances and special attention should be
paid in planning a self-drive safari. All of the major safari spots can
be covered independently and accommodation is available through the
Ministry of Environment and Tourism (MET) rest camps or on game farms or
lodges near these attractions. Certain areas of the Kaokoveld and
Caprivi should only be undertaken in 4x4 convoy fashion. Vehicle hire in
Namibia is reasonably expensive (outright vehicle purchase on a
guaranteed buy-back basis in Cape Town or hire from South Africa can be
more economical). If you have the time (less than 3 weeks on safari
would be an injustice to Namibia and yourself!) and are prepared to do
some detailed planning then an independent self-drive Namibian safari is
a very attractive option.
Mobile Safaris
These guided
cross county safaris offer an excellent means for accessing remote
locations with experienced local guides over a reasonably short safari
duration - don't count on less than 13 days as a bare minimum. We
strongly recommend this option when considering the Kaokoveld as a
component of a safari in Namibia. In general these safaris are conducted
on fixed-date departures with less than 8 guests making up a group, if
you're planning your safari as a couple then this is the best way to go.
If you have your own group of between four and eight people, then
request a tailor-made trip - you're unlikely to pay a premium and you
have the advantage of being able to select options that may be more
consistent with your interests.
"Wing Safaris"
Fly-in
safaris are definitely the best means for covering Namibia's highlights
if you're short on time (7 days minimum). These safaris tend to be more
exclusive, generally with a maximum of 4 guests on the trip. Extensions
and custom alterations to suit specific needs and interests can be
arranged. Whilst the bird's eye view of a "wing safari" might
not do justice to Namibia's "traditional" scenery the
perspectives over the Skeleton Coast and desert are once-in-a-lifetime
experiences. The Sossusvlei and Etosha stopovers are particularly
recommended and include amongst the best lodges in the country.
Specialist Safaris
Namibia
offers some exceptional options for seasoned African travellers as well
as those who have a key interest in photographic pursuits (scenery,
birdlife, wildlife), birdwatching, geology, very particular game and/or
bird species, regional history or rock art. If the sense of timelessness
is something that you've ever experienced then you have to consider
Namibia for a comparison. You have the option of doing an independent
self-drive safari or make contact and we'll assign a Namibian specialist
to assist you with your safari plan - the mobile safaris are best
customised for specialist excursions.
Safari
ideas
