Gemsbok self-drive

Gemsbok self-drive: In full

This self-drive safari includes 14 nights in Namibia, travelling at a relaxed pace to allow time to explore some of Northern Namibia's less visited sites in greater detail. Enjoy the coastal town of Swakopmund, drive along the aptly-named Skeleton Coast, discover the vast and untamed wilderness of Northern Damaraland, and be captivated by wildlife antics in Etosha National Park.

Day 1

Starting from London Heathrow, your scheduled overnight South African Airways flight will take you via Johannesburg to Windhoek, where you land around midday.

Day 2

1 night at Olive Grove (bed & breakfast) | Windhoek, Namibia

Olive Grove is a stylish guest house in Windhoek's suburb of Eros.Collect your rental car at Windhoek Airport and make the easy 45-minute drive into the capital city of Windhoek. Although the modern architecture, shops and restaurants give this city a cosmopolitan feel, it also retains its African atmosphere with its many street markets and local cuisine. Whilst here, stay at a recommended guesthouse such as the Olive Grove.

Days 3-5

3 nights at The Stiltz (bed & breakfast) | Swakopmund & Walvis Bay, Namibia

Overlooking the Swakop River The Stiltz is situated on the edge of the small town of Swakopmund.After breakfast, depart for Swakopmund, a friendly and fun town with a variety of things to see and do. We have included a magical full day trip to Sandwich Harbour with Turnstone Tours. For the adventurous, try sand-boarding in the coastal dunes or skydiving; or take a relaxed boat cruise around Walvis Bay harbour and visit the wonderful lagoon with its huge number of flamingos, pelicans and other water birds. Stay at the uniquely designed and comfortable The Stiltz.

Day 6

1 night at Terrace Bay (half board) | Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland, Namibia

Terrace Bay is on the coast, set deep within the Skeleton Coast National Park. From Swakopmund, drive north up the haunting Skeleton Coast and make a stop at Cape Cross to see the enormous colony of Cape fur seals. This extraordinary coastline feels increasingly barren and remote as you leave civilisation behind. You'll drive for about six hours today, crossing into the Skeleton Coast National Park, before you finally reach the isolated and simple restcamp accommodation at Terrace Bay.

Days 7-9

3 nights at Etendeka Mountain Camp (full board & activities) | Damaraland, Namibia

Etendeka Mountain Camp is set in a remote but stunning location...Enjoy superb scenery throughout your drive into Northern Damaraland. Leave your hired vehicle at Palmwag and join a 4WD road transfer into the rugged terrain of Etendeka Concession. A local guide will treat you to memorable nature drives and walks in this breathtaking wilderness area – giving you a close look at its unique flora and fauna. The three nights here allow you to truly return to nature, staying in furnished tents with bucket showers at the eco-friendly Etendeka Mountain Camp.

Days 10-11

2 nights at Okaukuejo Camp (bed & breakfast) | Etosha National Park, Namibia

This is the old tower at the heart of Okaukuejo Camp, in Etosha National Park.You'll be transferred back to your hired vehicle this morning and continue on your self-drive adventure to reach the famous Etosha National Park. Etosha is renowned for its prolific game and the vast Etosha Pan, a shallow bowl of silvery clay roughly the size of Holland. During the days you can explore in your hired car along the park's various sand roads, searching for game and stopping at waterholes to view the wildlife that comes in to drink. Return to your comfortable chalet by sunset and spend enthralling evenings by the floodlit waterhole at Okaukeujo Camp.

Days 12-13

2 nights at Mushara Lodge (half board) | Etosha National Park, Namibia

Enjoy another full day of game viewing as you drive across Etosha National Park to its eastern side. On your way, pass the vast Etosha Pan and varied habitats that attract different combinations of wildlife. Upon exiting the eastern gate it's a short way to your next lodge. These two nights provide an excellent base from which to discover eastern Etosha, whilst staying at the charming Mushara Lodge.

Days 14-15

2 nights at Erongo Wilderness Lodge (half board) | Central Highlands, Namibia

Erongo Wilderness Lodge sits amongst huge granite whalebacks and boulders in the Erongo Mountains.The drive today takes you through Namibia's Central Highlands to the base of the impressive Erongo Mountains. The surrounding granite outcrops are home to diverse birdlife, including some of Namibia's endemic species. It is a beautiful spot to explore the many walking trails on your own or with a local guide. Spend a final two nights in the relaxing surroundings of Erongo Wilderness Lodge. Guided walks are included in your stay here.

Day 16

Depart this morning in good time for the drive back to Windhoek Airport, perhaps stopping at Okahandja or Windhoek craft market for any last minute curios. Once at the airport, return your rental car and check-in to your overnight flight to London with South African Airways.

Day 17

You arrive back in London Heathrow this morning, where you can easily connect to an on-going flight, or travel back to your home in the UK. There is little time difference between Namibia and the UK so there's rarely any real jet lag – at the end of such a magical holiday.

See Prices & details for the precise dates/prices for this trip - and all the fine print.