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SELF DRIVE SAFARIS

17-Day Namibia to Victoria Falls Self-Drive Safari

Desert, Wildlife & River Odyssey

17 Days / 16 Nights

Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe

From N$ 113,600 p/p sharing

Overview

This extraordinary 17-day self-drive journey is masterfully designed for travelers seeking a complete Southern African experience through Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. The route delivers a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation, transitioning from the ancient red dunes of the Namib Desert to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha, the lush waterways of the Zambezi, and the legendary Victoria Falls.

Navigating in your own fully equipped 4x4 safari vehicle, you enjoy the freedom of independent exploration paired with the comfort of carefully selected lodges that showcase the unique character of each region. With over 20 years of regional expertise, Blue Crane Safaris provides comprehensive cross-border guidance and 24/7 local support, ensuring a sophisticated and high-trust travel experience.

Itinerary Day by Day

Day 1: Windhoek → Kalahari Desert

  • Depart Windhoek and journey into the warm, red dunes of the Kalahari Desert.

  • Unwind with a relaxing sunset nature drive or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of your desert lodge.

  • Experience your first taste of Namibia's wide-open landscapes and spectacular night skies.

  • Overnight: Kalahari Anib Lodge.


Days 2 & 3: Kalahari Desert → Namib Desert

  • Continue into the breathtaking Namib Desert, home to some of the world's tallest sand dunes.

  • Explore the iconic landscapes of Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, and the towering dunes at sunrise.

  • Marvel at the ancient camelthorn trees and ever-changing colours of one of the world's oldest deserts.

  • Overnight: Le Mirage Lodge.


Days 4 & 5: Namib Desert → Swakopmund

  • Travel west to the Atlantic coast and the charming seaside town of Swakopmund.

  • Explore its cafés, shops, and German colonial architecture or visit Walvis Bay Lagoon to see flamingos and other coastal birdlife.

  • Choose from optional adventures including dolphin cruises, scenic flights, and desert excursions.

  • Overnight: Atlantic Garden Hotel.


Day 6: Swakopmund → Erongo Mountains

  • Journey inland to the impressive granite landscapes of the Erongo Mountains.

  • Enjoy guided walks through spectacular boulder formations and admire sweeping panoramic views.

  • Relax in the peaceful surroundings of one of Namibia's most scenic mountain regions.

  • Overnight: Hohenstein Lodge.


Days 7 & 8: Erongo Mountains → Damaraland

  • Continue into the rugged wilderness of Damaraland, renowned for its dramatic scenery and fascinating geology.

  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Twyfelfontein to discover its remarkable ancient rock engravings.

  • Search for desert-adapted elephants and other wildlife while exploring dry riverbeds and open valleys.

  • Overnight: Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp.


Days 9: Damaraland → Etosha National Park (South)

  • Enter Namibia's premier wildlife destination, Etosha National Park.

  • Enjoy two days of self-drive game viewing, visiting renowned waterholes in search of elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and a wide variety of wildlife.

  • Experience unforgettable safari moments at your own pace.

  • Overnight: Etosha Safari Lodge


Day 10 & 11: Etosha National Park (South → East)

  • Drive across Etosha National Park toward its quieter eastern region.

  • Continue exploring productive waterholes and enjoy excellent wildlife viewing before settling into your lodge bordering the park.

  • Overnight: Mokuti  Lodge.


Day 12: Etosha → Kavango River

  • Travel northeast to the lush banks of the Okavango (Kavango) River.

  • Relax beside the river and enjoy the striking contrast between Namibia's dry landscapes and its vibrant river ecosystems.

  • Look out for abundant birdlife while soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

  • Overnight: Hakusembe River Lodge.


Day 13: Kavango River → Bwabwata National Park

  • Continue into the lush Caprivi Strip and the wildlife-rich Bwabwata National Park.

  • Discover beautiful riverine landscapes while watching for elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species.

  • Experience one of Namibia's most unique conservation areas.

  • Overnight: Divava  Lodge.


Days 14 & 15: Bwabwata National Park → Chobe National Park

  • Cross into Botswana and explore the world-famous Chobe National Park.

  • Enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing, including the park's famous elephant herds, along with opportunities for game drives and optional boat safaris on the Chobe River.

  • Experience one of Southern Africa's premier safari destinations.

  • Overnight: Chobe Water Villas.


Day 16: Chobe National Park → Victoria Falls

  • Cross into Zimbabwe to visit the spectacular Victoria Falls, known as "The Smoke That Thunders."

  • Explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World or enjoy optional adventure activities before your onward departure.

  • Overnight: A’Zambezi River Lodge.


Day 17: Victoria Falls → Airport & Departure

  • After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Victoria Falls before heading to the airport.

  • Return your vehicle and check in for your onward flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Southern African self-drive adventure.

Safari Specifics
  • Date: Pre-booked dates during peak season.

  • Pre booked dates: 12 Jul 2027 | 12 Aug 2027 | 12 Sep 2027

  • Duration: 17 Days / 16 Nights

  • Pricing: From N$ 113,600 per person sharing (Green Season baseline) Price is based on 2 pax. Solo travellers can enquire for rates.

  • Peak Season (May-Oct): N$ 139,400 per person sharing

  • Single Supplement: N$ 9,500 (Green Season) N$ 11,900 (Peak Season) 

  • Legal Disclaimer: Pricing excludes international flights.

  • Traveler’s Note: Choosing to travel during our Green Season (November – April) offers a uniquely vibrant perspective of Southern Africa. You will experience lush, rejuvenated landscapes, the arrival of newborn wildlife, and exceptional photographic clarity, all while enjoying the serenity of quieter parks at an exceptional value.

Included
  • Premium accommodation as specified.

  • 4x4 self-drive safari vehicle rental.

  • Detailed self-drive itinerary and route planning.

  • Cross-border guidance and documentation support.

  • 24/7 local assistance.

Excluded
  • International flights

  • Travel insurance and personal gratuities

  • Visas and visa applications

  • Optional extra activities

  • Fuel

  • Park entry fees

  • Cross-border vehicle collection/drop-off fee (N$ 9,500)

Vehicle Allocation & Comfort
  • 2 pax: 4x4 Toyota Hilux Double Cab or Toyota Fortuner (window seats, air conditioning)

  • 3 - 6 pax: Custom-built 9-seater 4x4 Land Cruiser (pop-up roof, air conditioning)

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