9 Day Highlights of Namibia Safari

Arrival / Windhoek

Once you’ve arrived in Johannesburg and have cleared customs and immigration, you’ll find a representative from African Sky waiting for you as you enter the arrivals hall. First, we’ll take care of a few formalities. Our representative, as an experienced guide, will also gladly answer any questions you have. Once formalities are completed you’ll then be escorted to the appropriate departure terminal where you’ll be assisted in boarding a regional flight to Windhoek in Namibia. There you’ll be met and transferred to your overnight accommodation in the capital, and where the remainder of your evening may be spent at leisure.

Sossusvlei

The morning is devoted to an excursion into the famous Sossusvlei sand dunes - among the highest dunes in the world - and Sesriem Canyon. The name 'Sossusvlei' applies to an area that encompasses the great plain of the Tsauchab River, along with the red dunes that appear to be marching along like giant sentinels to the south and north of the plain. After experiencing the dunes on foot, the safari travels on to Sesriem Canyon . The canyon begins as an almost imperceptible, but nevertheless deep cleft in the level, stony ground and then widens until it finally flattens out onto the plain. Because it is so deep and sheltered, it often holds water well into the dry season - an invigorating sight in such a barren and stark environment. During the afternoon, we return to the lodge and enjoy leisure time.

Swakopmund

Our first stop is at 'Bird Rock' - a guano island inhabited by some 200 000 birds and one of the first examples of man's efforts to utilize the rich natural resources of the area. The tour then makes its way to the lagoon at Walvis Bay and then on to Sandwich Harbor. Both have been designated as 'wetlands of International Importance'. From Walvis Bay, the safari travels south to the towering, wind-sculptured dunes at the edge of Sandwich Harbor. Some 40 000 birds - 34 different species - have been recorded in this area during recent surveys. Take a leisurely walk around the lagoon (an official marine sanctuary) where you may also see seals, dolphins and even whales. The safari then returns to Swakopmund, arriving during the late afternoon.

Etosha

The days are devoted to early morning and late afternoon open 4x4 safari excursions accompanied by local rangers and trackers.

Etosha, meaning "Great White Place", is dominated by a massive mineral pan. The pan is part of the Kalahari Basin, the floor of which was formed some 1 billion years ago. The Etosha Pan covers around 25% of the national park and was originally a lake fed by the Kunene River. However, the course of the river changed thousands of years ago and the lake dried up. The pan is now a large, dusty depression of salt and clay which fills only in the event of heavy rains and even then only holds water for a short time. This temporary water in the Etosha Pan attracts thousands of wading birds, including impressive flocks of flamingo. The perennial springs along the edges of the Etosha Pan draw large concentrations of wildlife and birds. Lion, elephant (seasonal), gemsbok, springbok, black rhino, greater kudu and red hartebeest can be seen at numerous waterholes and fringing habitats. Apex predators like leopard, cheetah and spotted hyena also occur in this area. Both black and white rhino occur in the area. Spotting one of these prehistoric-looking beasts is sure to be a highlight of your safari in Etosha .