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FROM US$2,290-US$3,160

Quiver Tree Self-drive Safari

An offbeat Namibian self-drive adventure exploring the epic Fish River Canyon and fascinating Kolmanskop ghost town in the south, before turning north via the classic highlights of Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and Damaraland.

Quiver Tree Self-drive Safari: Day-by-day

More detailed information of what each day entails, and the various places you’ll stay on the Quiver Tree Self-drive Safari. Everything we do is completely tailor-made so while this is an idea which works well, we’ll always design an itinerary just for you.


Day 1

Starts: Windhoek International Airport

About image
Day 1

Pick-up car: Windhoek International Airport

13:00
Windhoek International AirportNamibia

Collect the keys to your hire vehicle at the airport for a stress free start to your holiday.

Galton House
Day 1

Galton House

1 night
Bed & BreakfastWindhoek, Namibia

Every desert, whether of sand or concrete, needs an oasis and Galton House fits the bill. After a day travelling Namibia’s great plains or weaving through Windhoek traffic, Galton House is a cool sanctuary of minimalist, state-of-the-art décor.

Galton House

Every desert, whether of sand or concrete, needs an oasis and Galton House fits the bill. After a day travelling Namibia’s great plains or weaving through Windhoek traffic, Galton House is a cool sanctuary of minimalist, state-of-the-art décor.

The old capital still bears traces of its German colonial past, and its newest kid on the block is like a time portal into the modern era. Think Scandi-cool in Africa, this is a smart boutique hotel in all but name.

Situated in a quiet, affluent suburb a few minutes from the city centre, its complex of nine rooms with a small pool is an interior designer’s daydream of wood, glass and marble enlivened by canvas prints of striking wildlife photography and indigenous tribes.

The open-plan lounge is an invitation to relax with a book, and with friendly staff on hand to cook up dishes like beef satay in creamy peanut sauce, and zucchini with leek and mushroom in basil pesto that can be served alfresco by the pool, there's no need to head into town for dinner.

"lovely peaceful place to arrive after a long journey - Amazing food, ..."

Ms RfromN. Yorkshire

Arrived 13 Jan 2024, 1 night

Since we’re now back in the 21st century, high-speed WiFi, satellite TV and air conditioning are standard. After a long flight or day’s sightseeing, there are few modern oases more welcome. See our full report on Galton House

90%
165 reviews of Galton House by travellers since August 2007

Activities

Cultural excursion

Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge
Days 2-4

Kalahari Red Dunes

2 nights
Half BoardSouthern Namibia, Namibia

Inspired by the colours and wildlife of the Kalahari, the quirkily designed Kalahari Red Dunes offers terrific hiking. Gently undulating burnt-orange sand dunes are the setting for this spectacular rustic lodge set amid 4,000 hectares of private reserve in the Kalahari.

Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge

Inspired by the colours and wildlife of the Kalahari, the quirkily designed Kalahari Red Dunes offers terrific hiking. Gently undulating burnt-orange sand dunes are the setting for this spectacular rustic lodge set amid 4,000 hectares of private reserve in the Kalahari.

Thatched, circular stone huts, each quirkily named after animals found on the reserve, offer cloud-like beds prettily embroidered with animal patterns, polished wooden floors with animal skin rugs and beautifully finished red mosaic bathrooms.

First on the agenda here should be a tramp across the disorientating, plant-speckled Kalahari dunes. Surrounding the property are a number of signposted trails to sunset spots, where wildebeest, zebra or the occasional tower of giraffes wander undisturbed across the reserve.

Offered as an extra is an overnight Trans-Kalahari Walk, which will see you arriving at breakfast and lunch spots before reaching the lodge’s second camp, complete with plunge pool, braai area and two chalets in warm tones of red and orange.

"a beautiful lodge... very comfortable"

Jane UfromLondon

Arrived 1 Dec 2023, 3 nights

Come nightfall, the restaurant and bar area of Kalahari Red Dunes comes alive, twinkling with fairy lights. There’s a wide selection of local wines, delicious food and (in winter) a roaring fire, which makes for a memorable evening – particularly if you can spot an eland or an oryx chomping on the grass from the flood-lit dry lake. See our full report on Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge

91%
48 reviews of Kalahari Red Dunes by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Guided walking safari

Mountain biking

Self-guided walking

Canyon Village
Days 4-6

Canyon Village

2 nights
Half BoardFish River Canyon, Namibia

Close to Namibia’s Fish River Canyon, Canyon Village (previously called Canon or Cañon Village) is beautiful located at the base of a number of bare rocky hills, or kopjes, in the middle of a vast rocky landscape. Although the lodge is modern, a traditional feel comes from a series of attractive murals that depict various scenes from when the Nama people used to inhabit the region.

Canyon Village

Close to Namibia’s Fish River Canyon, Canyon Village (previously called Canon or Cañon Village) is beautiful located at the base of a number of bare rocky hills, or kopjes, in the middle of a vast rocky landscape. Although the lodge is modern, a traditional feel comes from a series of attractive murals that depict various scenes from when the Nama people used to inhabit the region.

"very good, Being very close to the park entrance is a big plus .."

StuartfromLondon

Arrived 3 Nov 2023, 2 nights

Canyon Village has a great location near to Fish River Canyon, allowing self-driving guests to explore the area on their own. The lodge is often frequented by groups, but don't let this put you off as its friendly service, pretty views and welcoming staff make it a good place to base yourself to explore this area of Namibia. See our full report on Canyon Village

90%
14 reviews of Canyon Village by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Guided walking safari

Horse-riding

Self-guided walking

Desert Horse Inn
Days 6-8

Desert Horse Inn

2 nights
Half BoardLuderitz, Namibia

The owner-run Desert Horse Inn stands on the Klein-Aus Vista reserve, which is reminiscent of a 'Western' movie set. It's about 1,400m above sea level, in a totally unspoilt semi-desert area, with wide-open plains against a backdrop of mountains. As well as offering some excellent walking, Klein-Aus Vista works as a base to visit Lüderitz, some 125km to the west.

Desert Horse Inn

The owner-run Desert Horse Inn stands on the Klein-Aus Vista reserve, which is reminiscent of a 'Western' movie set. It's about 1,400m above sea level, in a totally unspoilt semi-desert area, with wide-open plains against a backdrop of mountains. As well as offering some excellent walking, Klein-Aus Vista works as a base to visit Lüderitz, some 125km to the west.

"a very comfortable base for Kolmanskop and Luderitz"

Jane UfromLondon

Arrived 7 Dec 2023, 2 nights

The Desert Horse Inn is a welcoming and homely lodge. It makes a convenient stop for those travelling between Sossusvlei and Fish River Canyon, but if you have a little extra time and want to enjoy the reserve, search out the feral horses or visit Lüderitz and Kolmanskop, we'd suggest at least a couple of nights here. See our full report on Desert Horse Inn

89%
49 reviews of Desert Horse Inn by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Horse-riding

Mountain biking

Self-guided walking

Desert Quiver Camp
Days 8-10

Desert Quiver Camp

2 nights
Room OnlyNamib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

Desert Quiver Camp can be spotted from miles away, with it’s simple but comfortable self-catering chalets stretching across the desert plains, just 5km from the Sesriem entrance to the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

Desert Quiver Camp

Desert Quiver Camp can be spotted from miles away, with it’s simple but comfortable self-catering chalets stretching across the desert plains, just 5km from the Sesriem entrance to the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

"beautiful location, view of the stars were incredible - African Wild Cat! "

Mr & Mrs HfromHerne Bay

Arrived 25 Jul 2022, 2 nights

Desert Quiver Camp is a great budget option for self-drivers visiting this area who are happy to cater for their own meals. We like the look of the modern, comfortable chalets and they are well placed for easy access to Sossusvlei. See our full report on Desert Quiver Camp

98%
10 reviews of Desert Quiver Camp by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Helicopter

Hot air ballooning

Quad-biking

The Delight
Days 10-12

The Delight

2 nights
Bed & BreakfastSwakopmund & Walvis Bay, Namibia

Efficient, fresh and comfortable, The Delight is a riot of contemporary colour in the centre of Swakopmund. Turquoise walls and brilliant whites tone with Swakopmund’s seaside setting, but vivid scarlet soft furnishings add a zing that makes this modern hotel decidedly different. And if that doesn’t make you sit up and pay attention, check out the chandelier in the entrance area!

The Delight

Efficient, fresh and comfortable, The Delight is a riot of contemporary colour in the centre of Swakopmund. Turquoise walls and brilliant whites tone with Swakopmund’s seaside setting, but vivid scarlet soft furnishings add a zing that makes this modern hotel decidedly different. And if that doesn’t make you sit up and pay attention, check out the chandelier in the entrance area!

Outside, the feel is very different. From the road, The Delight’s expanse of glass is in stark contrast to the town’s traditional German-inspired architecture, but if you have a room at the back, step out onto your small private veranda and you’ll be confronted by a tranquil courtyard whose lines are softened by palms, pots and waving grasses.

Black-and-white “frescos” in the en-suite rooms enhance that sense of calm, their wooden floors and simple wooden furniture creating a somewhat Nordic look to offset the bright palette.

Back in the communal area, your senses re-awakened, indulge in a good buffet breakfast before exploring the town, or stop by – like the locals – for a midday coffee or a pre- or post-dinner drink.

"friendly and helpful staff"

Mr and Mrs Wfromlondon

Arrived 2 Jul 2023, 1 night

The Delight makes a refreshing change from Swakopmund’s smaller guesthouses and B&Bs. It may be larger than the norm, but along with the real sense of fun, it is efficiently run and has a great location. See our full report on The Delight

92%
31 reviews of The Delight by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Dune-boarding

Fishing

Kayaking

Mountain biking

Quad-biking

Spitzkoppen Lodge
Days 12-14

Spitzkoppen Lodge

2 nights
Half BoardDamaraland, Namibia

At last, travellers can explore the majesty of the Spitzkoppe massif from a comfortable, attractive lodge in a dramatic setting. Strung out among the boulders at the foot of the mountain, Spitzkoppen Lodge is almost dwarfed by the surrounding grandeur.

Spitzkoppen Lodge

At last, travellers can explore the majesty of the Spitzkoppe massif from a comfortable, attractive lodge in a dramatic setting. Strung out among the boulders at the foot of the mountain, Spitzkoppen Lodge is almost dwarfed by the surrounding grandeur.

Granite boulders smoothed over millennia gleam red in the evening sun, their nooks and crannies populated by busy rock hyrax. Deep in those crevices are hidden galleries of San rock art, hinting at the history of these ancient hills. And high above looms the lofty pinnacle that is Spitzkoppe itself.

Sensibly, the brains behind the lodge have kept their touch light, letting the setting speak for itself. High walkways weave over and around the rocks between the chalets and the hub of the lodge, with mountain views or hidden crannies at almost every turn.

Light floods into the rooms and the central area from giant picture windows, with natural wood and soft fabrics adding to the sense of space. And the pool – set into a natural depression with magnificent views from the surrounding rocks – simply adds to the drama.

"fantastic setting and layout, lovely food ..."

georgefromup north

Arrived 1 Jul 2023, 1 night

Head out across the plains from your chalet and explore the private reserve in solitude, or join a guided walk or drive, perhaps taking in the Zebra Pool or a magnificent rock arch. Then return to herald the sunset, drink in hand, and reflect on the wonders of nature. See our full report on Spitzkoppen Lodge

94%
38 reviews of Spitzkoppen Lodge by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Guided walking safari

Self-guided walking

Galton House
Day 14

Galton House

1 night
Bed & BreakfastWindhoek, Namibia

Every desert, whether of sand or concrete, needs an oasis and Galton House fits the bill. After a day travelling Namibia’s great plains or weaving through Windhoek traffic, Galton House is a cool sanctuary of minimalist, state-of-the-art décor.

Galton House

Every desert, whether of sand or concrete, needs an oasis and Galton House fits the bill. After a day travelling Namibia’s great plains or weaving through Windhoek traffic, Galton House is a cool sanctuary of minimalist, state-of-the-art décor.

The old capital still bears traces of its German colonial past, and its newest kid on the block is like a time portal into the modern era. Think Scandi-cool in Africa, this is a smart boutique hotel in all but name.

Situated in a quiet, affluent suburb a few minutes from the city centre, its complex of nine rooms with a small pool is an interior designer’s daydream of wood, glass and marble enlivened by canvas prints of striking wildlife photography and indigenous tribes.

The open-plan lounge is an invitation to relax with a book, and with friendly staff on hand to cook up dishes like beef satay in creamy peanut sauce, and zucchini with leek and mushroom in basil pesto that can be served alfresco by the pool, there's no need to head into town for dinner.

"lovely peaceful place to arrive after a long journey - Amazing food, ..."

Ms RfromN. Yorkshire

Arrived 13 Jan 2024, 1 night

Since we’re now back in the 21st century, high-speed WiFi, satellite TV and air conditioning are standard. After a long flight or day’s sightseeing, there are few modern oases more welcome. See our full report on Galton House

90%
165 reviews of Galton House by travellers since August 2007

Activities

Cultural excursion

About image
Day 15

Drop-off car: Windhoek International Airport

12:00
Windhoek International AirportNamibia

Having explored the south of Namibia, hand your keys in back at Windhoek Airport, where you began two weeks ago.

Day 15

Ends: Windhoek International Airport

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Experiences you can add to this trip.

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst staying at lodges on this trip. These are usually best arranged in advance so talk to us.


Ballooning in the Namib Desert

Ballooning in the Namib Desert

Half day, including breakfast

Ballooning over the world’s oldest desert is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Enjoy spectacular views as the sun rises over the dune-covered plains and rocky mountains of the Namib Desert. You may even spot the occasional oryx or black-backed jackal punctuating the landscape below.

More about Ballooning
94% (70 reviews)
Kayaking with seals

Kayaking with seals

Morning incl. tea, coffee & sandwiches

Get up close and personal with a colony of Cape fur seals on a kayaking excursion from Walvis Bay. Enjoy a gentle morning’s paddle in Walvis Bay Lagoon as seals surround and interact with you and your kayak. If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of some Heaviside’s or bottlenose dolphins.

More about Kayaking with seals
98% (176 reviews)
Coast and Sandwich Harbour

Coast and Sandwich Harbour

Full day

Experience this usually inaccessible part of the Skeleton Coast, where the dunes of the Namib plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. One of our top recommendations, this is an adventurous 4WD trip, guided by experts. You'll explore the Kuiseb Delta and (tides permitting) traverse dunes and the beach to reach Sandwich Harbour, a remote freshwater lagoon with abundant birdlife.

More about Coastal tour
94% (219 reviews)
Dolphin and seal cruise

Dolphin and seal cruise

Half-day inc brunch

A boat cruise around Walvis Bay lagoon is a must for lovers of wildlife and the great outdoors. Seek out the ‘marine big five’ – from Cape fur seals to bottlenose dolphins – and marvel at the range of bird species for whom this haven on the Skeleton Coast is home. Then round off the morning with an oyster brunch.

More about Dolphin & seal cruise
89% (14 reviews)
Desert tour

Desert tour

Variable, depending on the tour

Discover the unexpected on a trip into the desert surrounding the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. A must for wilderness lovers, this extraordinary landscape encompasses the Welwitschia Plains, sculpted dunes, the magic of the Kuiseb Delta – and much more. There are plenty of options, each with its own unique focus.

More about Desert tour
96% (11 reviews)
Halifax Island boat trip

Halifax Island boat trip

2 hours

Climb aboard the comfortable catamaran Zeepaard in search of the marine life of Namibia’s wild coastline – among them Cape fur seals, Heaviside dolphins, African penguins and perhaps even humpback whales.

More about Halifax Island trip
94% (13 reviews)
Scenic flights in Namibia

Scenic flights in Namibia

Variable, depending on the flight

Namibia is famed for its stark beauty and boundless desert vistas and there is no better way to soak these in than from the air. A scenic flight gives you a unique perspective on this stunning and varied country, and may even provide a bird’s-eye view of areas that are out of reach to those restricted to terra firma.

More about Scenic flights
94% (7 reviews)
Sperrgebiet tour

Sperrgebiet tour

Full day, including lunch

Discover the hidden gems of the Sperrgebiet National Park on this exceptional all-day trip. There may no longer be diamonds for the taking, but in their place you’ll find ghost towns, the rusting relics of the diamond industry, geological formations, and extraordinary desert flora, largely untouched for generations.

More about Sperrgebiet tour
93% (9 reviews)

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