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Central Highlands
Central Highlands
Central Highlands
Central Highlands
Central Highlands
Central Highlands
Central Highlands
Central Highlands
Central Highlands

great walking opportunities

fascinating ancient rock art

gorgeous settings & stunning views

tucked amongst giant boulders

spot wildlife on private reserves

some of the smaller residents!

there is a smattering of wildlife

knowledgable guides really bring the bush to life.

there is plenty of variety here

Central Highlands

Central Highlands

Cave paintings hidden among scenic hills, private game reserves and a personal welcome are key to the Central Highlands.

Each guest farm, each individual lodge, is different – ensuring a unique take on the area depending on where you stay.

Thanks to reasonable rainfall, farming has long been at the heart of these fertile hills, but the move from cattle towards game is more recent. Staying on a farm is a great opportunity, allowing a real insight into the challenges and rewards of this area. Many farms welcome travellers into their homes, too, where dining en famille adds another dimension, one of relaxed familiarity that only serves to enhance a stay.

As traditional farms have merged to form game reserves, notably in the Erongo Conservancy, so the indigenous wildlife has benefited. Dassies dot the rocky hillsides, zebra and black-faced impala graze the plains, and trees offer tasty treats to giraffe and kudu: all watched by unseen predators waiting patiently in the wings.

In many areas, excellent walking combines with fascinating rock formations dotted with cave paintings, making for constant variety. Walking – and superb guiding – is also at the heart of a stay at Mundulea, while at others, such as Okonjima, the focus is entirely on the big cats, and their conservation.

Even the small towns are attractive – especially Omaruru, whose cafés, craft shops and mineral gallery vie for visitor attention. And for lovers of woodcraft, Okahandja is a must, its two large craft markets among the best in the country.

The driving is easy, the scenery constantly changing. With so much choice in the Central Highlands, the hardest decision for the traveller is where to stop.

Central Highlands

Best safaris in Namibia’s Central Highlands

Celebrated for a diversity of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, Namibia’s Central Highlands are often overlooked in favour of the more well-known Etosha, Damaraland, and the Namib-Naukluft. But that’s a real shame – and one that we try to rectify in our Caracal or Chongololo self-drive safaris, or with stays at places such as Elegant Farmstead, Frans Indongo Lodge, Ghaub Guest Farm, Okonjima, and Roy's Restcamp.

All our trips are tailor-made; contact us to help create a safari that perfectly fits your schedule and interests.


Itinerary image

Chongololo Self-drive Safari

21 days • 11 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

This self-drive safari focuses on the best walking experiences in Namibia. Get your boots ready for the apricot dunes of the Namib Desert and the ancient hills of Damaraland.

US$7,620 - US$10,250 per person

Itinerary image

Cape Fox Guided Safari

13 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A classic clockwise circuit around Namibia’s northern highlights with a private guide and vehicle. We can’t think of a better way to see more in this timeframe.

US$8,690 - US$11,070 per person

Itinerary image

Dune Lark Fly & Drive Safari

14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A combination fly-in self-drive exploration of Namibia, with quick, easy and scenic flights in and out of Sossusvlei before a classic road trip adventure of the country’s rugged north.

US$4,870 - US$5,960 per person

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Caracal Self-drive Safari

14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

The quintessential Namibian self-drive adventure exploring the highlights from Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert to Damaraland’s wilderness and a safari in Etosha. A great mix of accommodation and excellent value.

US$2,790 - US$4,270 per person

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Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari

19 days • 10 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.

US$3,420 - US$4,400 per person

Itinerary image

Hartebeest Self-drive Safari

16 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

This self-drive safari focuses on the best cultural experiences in Namibia. Visit a Himba village and enjoy three days living with the San Bushmen interspersed with some excellent wildlife watching.

US$3,640 - US$5,000 per person

View all safaris

Most recent reviews of our safaris to Central Highlands

Click below to browse all 650 reviews from Central Highlands. All from our travellers; all are in full & unedited.


99%
650 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
634
Good
19
Average
1
Poor
1
Terrible
0
J&L from UK

Arrived 15 Nov 2024, 13 nights

"My Nov 2024 trip"

"A very well organised trip …" Read J&L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Lynda from Nomad

Arrived 7 Oct 2024, 17 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"I love Namibia and this will not be the last time I visit. …" Read Lynda’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs J. from Chester

Arrived 21 Sep 2024, 17 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"... another fantastic trip to this magical country. …" Read Mr & Mrs J.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

S & S from Alaska

Arrived 30 Sep 2024, 12 nights

"Our October Namibia Trip"

"We really had a great trip. We saw much more wildlife than we had even dreamed …" Read S & S ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs B from Wraysbury

Arrived 2 Sep 2024, 24 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"We can truly say this.. holiday was one of if not the best we have ever had …" Read Mr & Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

P and J from SF

Arrived 28 Aug 2024, 25 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"This was an epic trip.....it was the best we have ever taken. …" Read P and J ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Annie from MAN

Arrived 23 Sep 2024, 11 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"We had an amazing trip....we felt we were valued customers. …" Read Annie ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs R from Syderstone

Arrived 11 Aug 2024, 23 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"Outstanding! We can’t wait to go again! You do a fantastic job! …" Read Mr & Mrs R’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs P from Reading

Arrived 6 Sep 2024, 24 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"The holiday was a great mix... more wildlife expected... great scenery... …" Read Mr & Mrs P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs H from Victoria

Arrived 28 Aug 2024, 25 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"an amazing holiday, we enjoyed every minute of it. …" Read Mr & Mrs H ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Central Highlands reviews

Where to stay in the Central Highlands

The Central Highlands boast a broad range of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious lodges to intimate guest farms where you’ll feel like one of the family.

Private nature reserves allow you to focus on wildlife; mountain lodges give access to some superb hiking. Some are perfect for one-night stopovers, others reward a longer stay.

Choose between elegant lodges equipped with modern amenities or rustic camps that offer a more authentic atmosphere. Whether your preference is for adventure or tranquility, you will find plenty of choice in this picturesque region.

For more information on the best fit for your stay, don't hesitate to ask us.


Ondudu Safari Lodge

Ondudu

A long-time favorite, Ondudu Safari Lodge is now under new management, and we're eager to see how this charming, laid-back retreat continues to evolve.


96% (417 reviews)
Mundulea Reserve

Mundulea Reserve

The rustic Mundulea Bushcamp offers superb and varied walking in the company of a top-class guide on a reserve that features many endangered or endemic species.


99% (86 reviews)
Frans Indongo Lodge

Frans Indongo Lodge

For a chance to spot some rare game species, Frans Indongo Lodge is an ideal stop over between Windhoek and the Etosha National Park.


93% (69 reviews)
Ai Aiba Lodge

Ai Aiba Lodge

A convenient stop between Etosha and Windhoek,.Ai Aiba is a simple and relatively large lodge with plenty of great walking, and some spectacular San rock art.


92% (50 reviews)
Ghaub Guest Farm

Ghaub Guest Farm

Ghaub Guestfarm is a charming guestfarm on the site of an old mission station, in an unusually verdant patch of Namibia.


91% (38 reviews)
Elegant Farmstead

Elegant Farmstead

A stylish and peaceful lodge, The Elegant Farmstead is a relaxing and comfortable place to break the journey between Windhoek and Etosha.


90% (37 reviews)
Roy's Restcamp

Roy's Restcamp

For an economic, rustic option Roy's Restcamp makes for a convenient overnight stop when travelling to Bushmanland or the Caprivi Strip.


78% (27 reviews)
Cheetah View Lodge

Cheetah View

Cheetah View Lodge offers guests the chance to see cheetahs at close range and to learn about the work of the Cheetah Conservation Fund.


84% (16 reviews)
Hohenstein Lodge

Hohenstein Lodge

Hohenstein Lodge is situated south of the Erongo Mountain Range. Each of its ten chalets has been built to make the most of the panoramic views.


68% (5 reviews)

View all places

Our traveller’s wildlife sightings in the Central Highlands

Namibia’s Central Highlands are perhaps an unexpected wildlife sanctuary, home to a diversity of species.

The region notably shelters the critically endangered black rhino, known for its aggressive demeanour. Stealthy leopards, formidable predators, prowl the rocky landscapes, and in some places cheetahs patrol the plains.

Often seen grazing on the plains is the striking Hartmann's mountain zebra, with its black and white stripes extending to its underbelly, along with oryx, giraffe, sable antelope and roan antelopes, eland and wildebeest. Far more elusive are the nocturnal pangolin, and the brown hyena.

Click on a species below for more information on the top locations in the Central Highlands for wildlife sightings, or see our interactive map showing the best locations for individual wildlife species in Namibia. Read about our survey's methodology.


White Rhino

90% success

Sable antelope

75% success

Oryx

56% success

Giraffe

53% success

Zebra

39% success

Eland

33% success

Roan antelope

32% success

Wildebeest

30% success

Cheetah

11% success

Pangolin

2% success

Brown Hyena

2% success

Black Rhino

1% success

Leopard

1% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Aardvark

0% success

When to go to Central Highlands

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Central Highlands in Namibia


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Namibia in January

January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.

Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
  • Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
  • Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Namibia in February

February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.

Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
  • The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Namibia in March

March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.

Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
  • Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Namibia in April

Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.

With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.

  • Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
  • Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
  • Migrant birds have started to leave
  • Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Namibia in May

By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.

Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.

May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.

  • Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
  • The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
  • Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
  • Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
  • Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Namibia in June

Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.

Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.

Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.

  • Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
  • Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
  • “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
  • Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
  • Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Namibia in July

Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ÂşC/70ÂşF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.

As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).

  • Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
  • Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
  • The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Namibia in August

August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.

It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.

Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.

  • Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
  • Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
  • Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Namibia in September

September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.

In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.

  • One of the best months for wildlife viewing
  • Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
  • Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
  • Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
  • High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Namibia in October

Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ÂşC/100ÂşF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.

In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.

  • Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
  • Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
  • The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
  • It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
  • Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Namibia in November

November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.

Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.

  • A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
  • With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
  • Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
  • Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
  • Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Namibia in December

December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!

Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.

Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.

  • Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
  • Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
  • A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
  • Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
  • Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

Central Highlands: In detail

Central Highlands

Between Windhoek and Etosha lie the Central Highlands: a region of gentle rolling hills where many of Namibia's larger farms and ranches can be found.

In this part of Namibia, the attractions are the guest farms and small lodges, rather than the area itself. Some protect their own private game reserves; for others their unique environments are the attraction; whilst some are simply comfortable places to stop when passing through.

Namibia's guest farms and small lodges are all different, reflecting their individual hosts and locations. All offer comfortable accommodation with en-suite facilities, and most organise activities around local points of interest, such as unique rock formations and cave paintings. As you will be staying in someone's home, you will often dine with your hosts; an opportunity to gain an insight into their personal views of Namibia.

Some of the main towns and points of interest here are detailed below:


Okahandja

This small town, north of Windhoek, has some reasonable shops and two of the country's best open markets for curios. Add to this a reputation for excellent biltong (dried meat), and quite a lot of old buildings and history, and it's worth breaking your journey here.

Historically, Okahandja has long been the administrative centre for the Herero people, despite being considerably south-west of their main settlements. Missionaries first reached the area in the late 1820s, but it wasn't until 1849 that the first of them, Friedrich Kolbe, settled here.

Von Bach Dam

Just south of Okahandja, Von Bach Dam supplies most of the capital's water, and is surrounded by a nature reserve. The environment here is thorn-scrub and particularly hilly, supporting game including kudu, baboon and leopard, as well as Hartmann's mountain zebra, springbok, eland and even ostrich. However, with only one road through the park, they are all very difficult to spot – so very few of our travellers come here; and none come just for the game.

Gross Barmen Hot Springs

About 25km west of Okahandja, Gross Barmen's main attraction is its mineral spring and swimming baths. The spring here, clearly visible, wells up at about 65°C, feeding both the sunken baths of the indoor spa pool, as well as the cooler outside pools, which are an attraction in their own right. Both are open to both day and overnight guests, but the latter have exclusive use for four hours after the last day visitor has left. Note that day visitors are especially numerous at weekends.

Additional attractions are some gentle walks in the surrounding hillsides and, especially for birdwatchers, a good little path cut right through the reedbeds. These all make pleasant strolls, and a couple of benches make good vantage points over the dam while you rest.

Omaruru

Omaruru is a green and picturesque town astride the (usually dry) river of the same name, in a gently hilly area. The town has acquired something of a reputation for the creative arts, with many artists settling here to work. Many of the farms around it have turned to tourism, which is on the increase, so there is no shortage of lodges or guest farms in the area – and most of our visitors to this area head for Erongo Wilderness Conservancy.

Erongo Wilderness Conservancy

The private Erongo Conservancy encompasses the farms and lodges of about 30 landowners, stretching over 2,000km² (200,000ha). All fences have been taken down between these farms in order to conserve and protect the area. As proof of its success, white rhino were released here in 2009 and the first calf was born in 2010, although they are rarely spotted.

The Erongo Wilderness Conservancy centres around the Erongo Mountains, huge boulder and granite formations on the outskirts of an ancient volcano. They are bordered by the Namib Desert to the west and mixed woodland savannah to the east. This rare confluence of ecosystems is home to a vast array of plant, reptile, mammal and bird species, some endemic to Namibia.

The Conservancy's mission includes the preservation of the rich cultural heritage in the form of rock paintings and engravings that are found throughout the area.

Map of Central Highlands

Choices for where to stay in Central Highlands


Central Highlands: Safaris

Namibia's Central Highlands, known for their diverse landscapes and – in places – a range of wildlife, are both a destination in their own right, and an ideal starting point for exploring other captivating areas of Namibia, from the Caprivi Strip to Etosha National Park and the Skeleton Coast.

Among our most popular holiday suggestions in the Central Highlands are the Caracal Self-Drive Safari and the Chongololo Self-Drive Safari, both offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. For a more relaxed stay, consider the Elegant Farmstead or the Frans Indongo Lodge, where you can immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Ghaub Guest Farm and Roy's Restcamp provide a rustic charm, while Okonjima is renowned for its leopard conservation programmes.

These are just ideas, so give us a call; we'll always tailor-make a trip for you.


Showing 1-6 of 6
Name
Duration
Cost
Most popular
Itinerary image

Caracal Self-drive Safari

14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

The quintessential Namibian self-drive adventure exploring the highlights from Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert to Damaraland’s wilderness and a safari in Etosha. A great mix of accommodation and excellent value.

US$2,790 - US$4,270 per person

Itinerary image

Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari

19 days • 10 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.

US$3,420 - US$4,400 per person

Itinerary image

Cape Fox Guided Safari

13 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A classic clockwise circuit around Namibia’s northern highlights with a private guide and vehicle. We can’t think of a better way to see more in this timeframe.

US$8,690 - US$11,070 per person

Itinerary image

Dune Lark Fly & Drive Safari

14 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A combination fly-in self-drive exploration of Namibia, with quick, easy and scenic flights in and out of Sossusvlei before a classic road trip adventure of the country’s rugged north.

US$4,870 - US$5,960 per person

Itinerary image

Chongololo Self-drive Safari

21 days • 11 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

This self-drive safari focuses on the best walking experiences in Namibia. Get your boots ready for the apricot dunes of the Namib Desert and the ancient hills of Damaraland.

US$7,620 - US$10,250 per person

Itinerary image

Hartebeest Self-drive Safari

16 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

This self-drive safari focuses on the best cultural experiences in Namibia. Visit a Himba village and enjoy three days living with the San Bushmen interspersed with some excellent wildlife watching.

US$3,640 - US$5,000 per person

Showing 1-6 of 6

Our best 9 lodges and safari camps in and around the Central Highlands

The Central Highlands of Namibia, with their rugged yet little-visited landscapes, offers a variety of accommodation for many budgets and styles.

Scattered across the region, lodges, bushcamps and farmhouses provide both seclusion and access to key wildlife and hiking areas. Although the range of facilities varies considerably, you can expert modern comforts in even the most rustic of camps.

Popular locations include the Erongo Mountains, Waterberg Plateau National Park and the Otavi Highlands, each offering distinct natural beauty and wildlife encounters. Among the top choices, Okonjima stands out for its leopards and its conservation work, Mundulea for its exceptional walking, and Frans Indongo Lodge for its rich cultural heritage and its proximity to the Cheetah Conservation Fund.


Showing 1-9 of 9
Name
Traveller's rating
No. of reviews
Ondudu Safari Lodge

Ondudu

A long-time favorite, Ondudu Safari Lodge is now under new management, and we're eager to see how this charming, laid-back retreat continues to evolve.


96% (417 reviews)
Mundulea Reserve

Mundulea Reserve

The rustic Mundulea Bushcamp offers superb and varied walking in the company of a top-class guide on a reserve that features many endangered or endemic species.


99% (86 reviews)
Frans Indongo Lodge

Frans Indongo Lodge

For a chance to spot some rare game species, Frans Indongo Lodge is an ideal stop over between Windhoek and the Etosha National Park.


93% (69 reviews)
Ai Aiba Lodge

Ai Aiba Lodge

A convenient stop between Etosha and Windhoek,.Ai Aiba is a simple and relatively large lodge with plenty of great walking, and some spectacular San rock art.


92% (50 reviews)
Ghaub Guest Farm

Ghaub Guest Farm

Ghaub Guestfarm is a charming guestfarm on the site of an old mission station, in an unusually verdant patch of Namibia.


91% (38 reviews)
Elegant Farmstead

Elegant Farmstead

A stylish and peaceful lodge, The Elegant Farmstead is a relaxing and comfortable place to break the journey between Windhoek and Etosha.


90% (37 reviews)
Roy's Restcamp

Roy's Restcamp

For an economic, rustic option Roy's Restcamp makes for a convenient overnight stop when travelling to Bushmanland or the Caprivi Strip.


78% (27 reviews)
Cheetah View Lodge

Cheetah View

Cheetah View Lodge offers guests the chance to see cheetahs at close range and to learn about the work of the Cheetah Conservation Fund.


84% (16 reviews)
Hohenstein Lodge

Hohenstein Lodge

Hohenstein Lodge is situated south of the Erongo Mountain Range. Each of its ten chalets has been built to make the most of the panoramic views.


68% (5 reviews)
Showing 1-6 of 9
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Frequently Asked Questions

Central Highlands FAQs

Our frequently asked questions about Namibia's Central Highlands provide helpful travel information. Whether you want to know more about the practicalities of when to visit and how to travel to and within the region, or to find out about cultural interactions and geological formations, this is the place to look. And do give us a call if you’d like to know more.


What is the best time of year to visit Namibia's Central Highlands?

During the dry season, from around May to October, the weather in the Central Highlands is cooler, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), dropping to around 5° to 10°C (41°–50°F) at night. This is also the best time for walking and for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources. The wet season, from November to April, brings higher temperatures and occasional thunderstorms, which can make travel more challenging – but the birding can be excellent.

How do I travel around and between places in the Central Highlands?

Most visitors to the Central Highlands drive themselves. Well-maintained tarred roads link the main towns, such as Okahandja, Otjiwarongo and Grootfontein; only if you are planning to travel way off the beaten track will you normally need a 4WD vehicle. For those who prefer not to self-drive, both guided tours and private transfers are available. Public transport is limited.

What should I pack for a trip to the Central Highlands?

As for most of Namibia, pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime and warmer layers for cooler evenings. Comfortable shoes or boots are essential for exploring, especially if you’re planning to hike in the mountains. Include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection, and binoculars for wildlife viewing, as well as a camera. We’d also advise plenty of water and snacks, a basic first-aid kit and insect repellent.

Are there opportunities to experience local culture in the Central Highlands?

The small town of Okahandja is known for its bustling woodcarving markets, where you can haggle for handmade crafts, and for the annual Herero festival, held at the end of August. Looking back in time, the Erongo Mountains showcase some of the country’s best examples of ancient rock art. Cultural tours here may include visits to a San living museum, offering an insight into traditional customs and lifestyles.

Are there any unique landscapes or geological features in the Central Highlands?

From the Vingerklip in the west to the striking red sandstone formations of the Waterberg Plateau in the east, rising sharply from the surrounding plains, extraordinary geological features abound in the Central Highlands. The Otavi Mountains near Grootfontein also stand out for their complex cave systems as well as for the Hoba Meteorite, weighing some 60 tonnes and the largest single metallic meteorite on Earth.

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