Ultimate Namibia Roadtrip
Namibia
The perfect first-time itinerary. A 4x4 is not totally necessary for this route, but be sure to have a high clearance vehicle and stay along the main roads. Always fill up when you see a fuel station and be sure to let your tyres down for the sand.
January 2024
Alexis
Harmonious Yenta
1. Fish River Canyon
Hobas
Description
This is the second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. Stay at the Hobas Campsite, only a short drive from the canyon itself. You will be treated to the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets and pretty much have the canyon to yourself. Namibia is loved for its scarce population and wide open spaces. There is no fencing so you really do feel on the edge of the world.
Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
Go by Car
Safe at Night
Have Cash on Hand
Poor Signal
Wifi Available
Additional Safety Information
Everything in Namibia is few and far between. It's advised to always carry cash incase the signal drops and card machines don't work. Most places have wifi, but I wouldn't always count on it. Be sure to let your friends and family know where your next destination is before you leave. The country is unbelievably safe and if you do run into trouble, there will always be someone to help (it may just take a while for someone to find you).2. Luderitz
Luderitz
Description
Luderitz is a small coastal town best-known for its wind surfing records and close proximity to the 'ghost town' of Kolmanskop. An abandoned mining town famous for the sand filled houses. Tours run daily, book early to avoid to midday heat. Visit the Nest hotel for lunch with a view.
Additional Safety Information
Stop at Canyon Roadhouse on your way out for a fuel fill-up. The roads are graded from tar (A Routes) to well-maintained gravel (B Routes) to less maintained gravel/sand roads (C+D Routes).3. Sossusvlei
Sossuvlei
Description
The famous red dunes of Namibia! These giant dunes are a marvel of nature and a bucket-list moment. There a few dunes like Elim and Dune 45, but the most famous are Big Mamma, Big Daddy and Deadvlei. It is so worth waking up before the sun to sit atop the dunes for sunrise. Prepare for a climb and pack water! If that doesn't sound like fun, rent a hot air balloon and see them from the sky.
Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
Go by Car
Have Cash on Hand
Safe for Walking
Wifi Available
Additional Safety Information
It is well worth staying inside the park at Sesriem NWR Campsite. If you stay outside the park you will have to wait for the gates to open each day, which means A. you could miss the sunrise and B. you are likely to visit when there are more people. By staying in the park, you can travel to the dunes at any time, especially in time for the sunrise which is when they are at their most spectacular. If you don't have a 4x4 not too worry, you can visit the smaller dunes like Elim and Dune 45 easily along the main road. The bigger dunes are situated at the end of the road, there is a shuttle that takes you the last 5km's and honestly I would recommend this regardless as you don't have to worry about potentially getting stuck in the thick, soft sand and missing sunrise.4. Swakopmund
Swakopmund
Description
A quaint coastal town known for its German influence in architecture and pastries. Stroll the promenade past the iconic lighthouse, visit the impressive museum, try one of their many quaint coffee shops and if the conditions are right, catch a surf! Nearby activities include quad biking with Dune 7 adventures or heading further up the coast to see the shipwrecks and Cape Fur Seal colonies of Skeleton Coast. Be sure to try Brewer&Butcher ($$$), Gabriele's pizza ($$) and the Wild Rocket Cafe ($).
Tips on Safety
Go by Car
Poor Signal
Additional Safety Information
When leaving Sesriem/Soussuvlei, make sure to pass through Solitaire - the only fuel station en route to Swakopmund. They are famous for their Apple Crumble, it's well worth the stop.5. Spitzkoppe
Spitzkoppe
Description
A hikers paradise. A region known for it strange, boulderous landscape. We stayed at the Community Campsite where each site is set far apart, so you truly feel as if you have the place to yourself, with the bonus of the most scenic outdoor shower.
Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
Go by Car
Have Cash on Hand
Safe for Walking
Poor Signal
Additional Safety Information
There is no signal in this area, so come prepared and enjoy the silence.6. Windhoek
Windhoek
Description
The capital of Namibia is a vibrant hub of food, music and history. Be sure to visit the Independence Museum while you're there. From here it's a drive back south to the border or a flight out. There are many 4x4 rental companies which make over-landing Namibia accessible. Have fun!
Tips on Safety
Safe at Night
ATM's Nearby
Great for Solo Travelers
Safe for Walking
Wifi Available