Guesthouse/Lodge/Tented Camps Inclusions:
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Guesthouse/Lodge/Tented Camps -
11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches & 9 Dinners
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Water on Safari
-
Safari Vehicle
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English Speaking Guide
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Game Drives
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Entrance Fees Included
Trip Summary
Group Size: Maximum 7 passengers
Departs: Scheduled departures during the year
..................................................
Travel by road and discover this magnificent and memorable destination during a ‘True African Safari’. The highlights include climbing some of the world’s highest freestanding sand dunes, sea-kayaking with seals and dolphins on the Skeleton Coast, tracking desert adapted elephants, staying in Africa’s 4th largest National Park, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site at Twyfelfontein and remote Himba settlements, game viewing in Etosha National Park, and experiencing the world renowned AfriCat Foundation.
Dates and Pricing
- Departures
- Twin
- Single
- 02 Dec 24 $8,950 $10,495
- 16 Dec 24 $8,950 $10,495
Prices shown are per person based on twin share. Seasonal supplements and minimum night requirement may apply. Solo traveller and extra night prices available on request. Luggage restrictions may apply. International flights not included.
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Reviews
Namibia and South Africa
Once again Maria did a fantastic job of organising our African adventure.
Our private tour of Namibia by Ultimate Safaris was excellent with a truly wonderful guide and very well equipped safari vehicle. Although many of the roads are terrible, the scenery and animal encounters more than make up for it. Paying the extra for a private tour rather than the group tour is well worth it.
The Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel in Cape Town was wonderful. Great location, large well equipped rooms and caring staff.
Marataba Safari Lodge, in north west South Africa, has to be in one of the most stunning locations in Africa. The lodge has a large concession in the Marakele National Park, which is home to most of the African animals you expect to see on safari. A luxury experience, but unfortunately a boring 4 hour drive from Jo'berg.
Madikwe Safari Lodge is also a 4 hour drive from Jo'berg, in the Madikwe Game Reserve. A wonderful luxury lodge with great food and intimate service, however the Reserve is so large, that finding many of the animals can become a frustrating experience.
Ilios Travel and South African Airways both provided reliable, on time transfers and flights during our trip.
This was our 4th trip to Africa, but will certainly not be our last!
Namibian Experience
The start of out trip to the Zambezi Queen experience on the Chobe River was superb, apart from the customs experience going in and out – but it was African! Superb accommodation, views and activities, with amazing staff; well worth having the experience
We lost a case coming in to Windhoek, but the company took charge and found it for us and had it delivered day 2 of the trip; they were really well organised, and we had our own vehicle and guide – I was expecting to have to share with at least a few other folk, but there was only myself and the wife on our twosome with our personal guide Juan. He was fantastic, so thoughtful and attentive and so very knowledgeable about his country, it’s geology, floras and fauna – and even its astronomy. A magic person who looked after us magnificently for the entire tour; Another plus was the scenic flight to Swakopmund from Sossusvlei – this is an absolute must; it’s amazing seeing the desert and dunes on the ground, but from the air its absolutely breath-taking; it knocks the spots off the ballooning which is essentially 45 mins of up and down, with no flight path over the dunes. Visited them all – Dune 45, Big Daddy, Big Mama and a whole pile more; great elephant encounters, and lessons on tracking ? Superb – and more wildlife than you could possibly want – the only thing we didn’t see was leopard, and that’s really not surprising.
It then just got better and better with a great catch up with our mates in Swakopmund, a geological wonderland in Damaraland, the delights of the Etosha and then a final stop at the Cheetah park as a break before back to Windhoek & home; millions of photographs as per usual!
The one thing we have learned now, is that for us fuddy-duddies, the last day and night of the trip needs to be activity free, as we need the time to just catch up with what we’ve experienced and have a gentle repack before the long aircraft hauls begin.
Bench put together a remarkable Namibian experience for us and we had a wonderful trip, We will have to go back sometime, as there is still the North and South of the Country to do, and Juan, our guide had some lovely suggestions for a combination air/road safari next time ? Ultimate Safari’s, his company specialise in these boutique safari’s with Bench, and they are very, very good at it.
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Trip Summary
Back To Top
Group Size: Maximum 7 passengers
Departs: Scheduled departures during the year
..................................................
Travel by road and discover this magnificent and memorable destination during a ‘True African Safari’. The highlights include climbing some of the world’s highest freestanding sand dunes, sea-kayaking with seals and dolphins on the Skeleton Coast, tracking desert adapted elephants, staying in Africa’s 4th largest National Park, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site at Twyfelfontein and remote Himba settlements, game viewing in Etosha National Park, and experiencing the world renowned AfriCat Foundation. -
Full Itinerary
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Day 1 - Windhoek
On arrival at Windhoek Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Please note: There is a foreign exchange desk at Windhoek International Airport if required on arrival. We recommend that you opt for South African Rand rather than Namibian Dollars as both are legal tender in Namibia, however Namibian Dollars are limited to use and exchanging only within Namibia.
Accommodation: 1 night Galton House.Named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Galton, Galton House has a relaxed but efficient style which creates a very welcoming atmosphere. Impressive wildlife photography adorns the walls whilst the rest of the interior is a combination of modern minimalistic and understated chic. A mere ten minute drive from the centre of town and perched on the edge of Windhoek’s northernmost affluent suburb of Eros, guests staying here will be ensured of peace and tranquillity. There is Wi-Fi throughout the property and the eight guest rooms all have wired internet connectivity and satellite television. The communal areas consist of a large lounge, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a swimming pool, an early arrival/late departure day room (including toilet, shower, changing and re-packing facility) as well as understated garden areas. There is also a delightful al-fresco dining area by the pool where freshly prepared and very tasty meals are served (including lunch and dinner). A number of shops, restaurants and supermarkets are within easy striking distance.
Day 2 - Namib Naukluft National Park
This morning depart Windhoek and travel southwest through the scenic Khomas Highlands into the Namib Desert with a picnic lunch enroute. Visit the Sesriem Canyon and Sossusvlei from your lodge which is situated within the Namib Naukluft Park, providing sweeping vistas of the dunes. Enjoy the benefit of being able to reach Sossusvlei before sunrise, or to stay until after sunset. (BLD)
Accommodation: 2 nights Dead Valley Lodge.Dead Valley Lodge is situated next to the main entrance gate inside the Namib Naukluft National Park, between the Sesriem campsite and Elim Dune on the way to the world famous Sossusvlei and the Dead Vlei. This oasis offers a panoramic view of the Namib Desert with towering red sand dunes, rugged mountain ranges, and arid desert savannahs.
Each of the 20 free-standing luxury tented chalets is climate controlled and equipped with double bed units, electric plugs, private patios, a kitchenette, and free-standing bathrooms stocked with toiletries. Guests can enjoy the top-class restaurant that serves delicious Namibian-style cuisine, relax in the picturesque bar with a cold drink after a day of activities, or cool off in the open-air swimming pool overlooking the Elim Dune.
The lodge’s eco-friendly design and architecture have truly been inspired by Sossusvlei and with its own entrance into the Namib-Naukluft National Park, making the Dead Valley Lodge one of the closest lodges to Sossusvlei pan. The lodge offers game drives in the morning and afternoon to Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon.Day 3 - Sossusvlei
An early morning start to capture this awesome landscape and explore the dune fields, enjoy a picnic brunch. Your afternoon is at leisure after an exhilarating morning in the dunes. (BLD)
Day 4 - Swakopmund
Please note: Option to include a sunrise balloon flight or scenic light aircraft flight over the Namib Naukluft National Park before you depart for Swakopmund (at own expense). Please note that if making use of this offer, it will need to be booked exclusively with Ultimate Safaris in order to fit in with other timings for this day.
The fascinating drive northwest today takes in the ever changing landscapes of the Gaub and Kuiseb canyons. You will meet the coast at Walvis Bay and arrive into the historic town of Swakopmund. (BLD)
Please note: As an alternative to the drive from Dead Valley Lodge to Swakopmund you may like to take a scenic light aircraft flight over Sossusvlei and along the Diamond Coast (at own expense), allowing you a bird’s eye view over the dune sea, abandoned mining camps, shipwrecks, Sandwich Harbour and salt pans before you land at Swakopmund Airport. Your guide will drive to meet up with you in Swakopmund later in the day. Please note that if making use of this offer, flights will need to be booked exclusively with Ultimate Safaris for absolute logistical reasons.
Accommodation: 2 nights The Delight.Amongst Swakopmunds captivating contrasts and old traditions, The Delight is a fresh breeze in the desert. Conveniently located within short walking distance of the ‘Mole’, our modern, uplifting and inviting hotel is the ideal base for your stay. Every effort is made to surprise and delight guests with thoughtful touches and locally inspired reasons to smile.
Day 5 - Swakopmund
Today either enjoy a memorable kayaking adventure or motorised boat trip within the outer lagoon of Walvis Bay, an ideal way of seeing Cape fur seals, dolphins, pelicans and flamingos. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure. (BLD)
Day 6 - Damaraland
The journey continues north into the wonderful region of Damaraland. Pass the Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain, in one of the least populated and geologically diverse areas in Africa. The harsh, rocky environment is home to the desert adapted elephant. Spend two nights at Camp Kipwe, nestled amongst giant granite boulders. A refreshing swimming pool and sunset lookout with lovely views also complement the camp. (BLD)
Accommodation: 2 nights Camp Kipwe.Huddled in the rocks, with sweeping views across the Aba Huab valley, Camp Kipwe is full of surprises, starting when guests first arrive. It appears as if rocks have tumbled down the hill to reveal this gem of a camp.
The setting is one of intimacy and space. An inviting lounge area, where birds fly in to enjoy the water seeping from the rocks, a refreshing swimming pool nestled in the rocks and a scattering of bungalows complete this eco friendly camp. The surrounding space and endless views of Damaraland cannot be contained. They beckon you to explore – enjoy an early morning game drive in search of elusive desert dwelling elephants, hike in the ancient surroundings of the Aba Huab River or travel back in time at Twyfelfontein, Namibia’s first UNESO World Heritage site.Day 7 - Damaraland
Spend the day on an exciting 4X4 excursion in this remarkable region in search of wildlife, a visit to Twyfelfontein and other nearby attractions, and a guided walk. (BLD)
Day 8 – Etosha National Park
Today you set off on your journey to the Ongava Game Reserve, which is situated on the southern border of Etosha National Park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive. (BLD)
Accommodation: 3 nights Ongava Tented Camp.Immersed in the African Mopani bush, Ongava Tented Camp is a natural extension of this wild, wonderful landscape. The classic safari style camp is tucked in a hidden valley at the foot of a dolomite hill in Ongava Game Reserve bordering Etosha National Park.
Eight large comfortable Meru-style tents all have en-suite facilities, open air showers and private verandas; the family unit sleeps four. The main area, built of stone, canvas and thatch, fronts onto a much-frequented waterhole; watching wildlife coming to drink from here or from the swimming pool is a favourite pastime.Day 9 – Etosha National Park
Today you will be treated to an exciting morning guided game drive into the Etosha National Park, to see more of the wide variety of game and bird species that are to be found there. There is then time to relax by the refreshing swimming pool before you head out again for an afternoon game drive into Etosha before exiting the park before sunset. Once you are back at the camp you can view the game at the camp’s floodlight waterhole. (BLD)
Day 10 – Etosha National Park
Another morning dedicated to a memorable game drive within the southern section of Etosha National Park with your guide. You return to camp for lunch and an early afternoon rest, spending your final afternoon on a game drive on the private Ongava Game Reserve. (BLD)
Day 11 – Windhoek
Your early departure will take you south from Ongava via Outjo and Otjiwarongo to reach Okonjima’s AfriCat Day Centre, a wonderful highlight with which to conclude your safari. Okonjima is home to the AfriCat Foundation, a wildlife sanctuary which focuses on the research and rehabilitation of Africa’s big cats, especially injured or captured leopard and cheetah. You will arrive in time for lunch before embarking on an exciting and informative game drive and tour of the centre. Here you will learn about the function and vision of the AfriCat Foundation and will also get to meet some of the Foundation’s special captive carnivore ambassadors. (BL)
After the excursion and freshening up, the journey continues further south to arrive back in Windhoek in the late afternoon, just as the sun is setting. On your arrival in Windhoek you will be transferred to your hotel. -
Inclusions
Back To Top
-
Guesthouse/Lodge/Tented Camps
-
11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches & 9 Dinners
-
Water on Safari
-
Safari Vehicle
-
English Speaking Guide
-
Game Drives
-
Entrance Fees Included
-
-
Dates and Pricing
Which date(s) are you interested in?
- Departures
- Twin
- Single
- 02 Dec 24 $8,950 $10,495
- 16 Dec 24 $8,950 $10,495
DISclaImer: Prices shown are per person based on twin share. Seasonal supplements and minimum night requirement may apply. Solo traveller and extra night prices available on request. Luggage restrictions may app apply. International flights not included.Read more Read Less Send Enquiry - Gallery
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Reviews
Namibia and South Africa
Once again Maria did a fantastic job of organising our African adventure.
Carol and Ian Macleod Destination: South Africa
Our private tour of Namibia by Ultimate Safaris was excellent with a truly wonderful guide and very well equipped safari vehicle. Although many of the roads are terrible, the scenery and animal encounters more than make up for it. Paying the extra for a private tour rather than the group tour is well worth it.
The Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel in Cape Town was wonderful. Great location, large well equipped rooms and caring staff.
Marataba Safari Lodge, in north west South Africa, has to be in one of the most stunning locations in Africa. The lodge has a large concession in the Marakele National Park, which is home to most of the African animals you expect to see on safari. A luxury experience, but unfortunately a boring 4 hour drive from Jo'berg.
Madikwe Safari Lodge is also a 4 hour drive from Jo'berg, in the Madikwe Game Reserve. A wonderful luxury lodge with great food and intimate service, however the Reserve is so large, that finding many of the animals can become a frustrating experience.
Ilios Travel and South African Airways both provided reliable, on time transfers and flights during our trip.
This was our 4th trip to Africa, but will certainly not be our last!Namibian Experience
The start of out trip to the Zambezi Queen experience on the Chobe River was superb, apart from the customs experience going in and out – but it was African! Superb accommodation, views and activities, with amazing staff; well worth having the experience
We lost a case coming in to Windhoek, but the company took charge and found it for us and had it delivered day 2 of the trip; they were really well organised, and we had our own vehicle and guide – I was expecting to have to share with at least a few other folk, but there was only myself and the wife on our twosome with our personal guide Juan. He was fantastic, so thoughtful and attentive and so very knowledgeable about his country, it’s geology, floras and fauna – and even its astronomy. A magic person who looked after us magnificently for the entire tour; Another plus was the scenic flight to Swakopmund from Sossusvlei – this is an absolute must; it’s amazing seeing the desert and dunes on the ground, but from the air its absolutely breath-taking; it knocks the spots off the ballooning which is essentially 45 mins of up and down, with no flight path over the dunes. Visited them all – Dune 45, Big Daddy, Big Mama and a whole pile more; great elephant encounters, and lessons on tracking ? Superb – and more wildlife than you could possibly want – the only thing we didn’t see was leopard, and that’s really not surprising.
It then just got better and better with a great catch up with our mates in Swakopmund, a geological wonderland in Damaraland, the delights of the Etosha and then a final stop at the Cheetah park as a break before back to Windhoek & home; millions of photographs as per usual!
The one thing we have learned now, is that for us fuddy-duddies, the last day and night of the trip needs to be activity free, as we need the time to just catch up with what we’ve experienced and have a gentle repack before the long aircraft hauls begin.
John Keenan
Bench put together a remarkable Namibian experience for us and we had a wonderful trip, We will have to go back sometime, as there is still the North and South of the Country to do, and Juan, our guide had some lovely suggestions for a combination air/road safari next time ? Ultimate Safari’s, his company specialise in these boutique safari’s with Bench, and they are very, very good at it.
