NAMIBIA: NORTH WEST EXPLORER 24 APR-11 MAY, 2026

NAMIBIA: NORTH WEST EXPLORER
24 APR-11 MAY, 2026

with Jeremy Woodhouse
(18 days/17 nights), maximum group size 6-9

Namib Dune Gecko

Trip Summary

The Kunene region, situated in the northwest of Namibia, is a spectacularly diverse and remote area celebrated for its rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This region includes the Kaokoland area and stretches to the edge of the Skeleton Coast, creating a striking juxtaposition between the arid desert interior and the icy Atlantic Ocean along the coast.

Our journey will begin in the coastal town of Swakopmund, where we'll start our adventure up the west coast of Namibia. Our objective will be Mowe Bay, a remote and rugged area known for its striking coastal landscapes and rich history of shipwrecks. The drive along the Skeleton Coast will offer us stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean meeting the arid desert, creating a dramatic and surreal backdrop.

From Mowe Bay, we will be escorted to the iconic Shipwreck Lodge, nestled among the sand dunes and overlooking the wild coastline. This unique lodge, with its striking design inspired by the shipwrecks that dot the coast, will be our base for exploring the surrounding area. We’ll have the opportunity to witness the raw beauty of the Skeleton Coast, explore the desolate beaches, and perhaps even spot some of the elusive wildlife that thrives in this harsh environment, such as the brown hyena and the seals along the shore.

After our stay at Shipwreck Lodge, we'll embark on a wild camping adventure, immersing ourselves in the raw and unfiltered beauty of the Namibian wilderness. This part of the trip will take us through some of Namibia's most remote and untouched landscapes where we'll have a chance to see desert-adapted elephants and other wildlife that have adapted to the arid conditions. We’ll explore the surrounding riverbeds and valleys, marveling at the incredible adaptations of both flora and fauna. We'll set up camp in a secluded spot, under the vast Namibian sky, and enjoy a night surrounded by the sounds of nature. This will be a unique opportunity to experience the solitude and tranquility of the desert, away from any signs of civilization.

Our journey will then take us to Sesfontein, a small settlement with a rich history and a fascinating mix of cultures. From there, we’ll continue to Purros, a remote village in the heart of the Kaokoland region. Here, we'll have the chance to interact with the Himba people, learning about their traditional way of life and customs. This cultural exchange will provide us with a deeper understanding of the region's indigenous people and their harmonious relationship with the environment.

Next, we'll travel to Orupembe, another remote and rugged area known for its dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife. We’ll explore the surrounding areas, perhaps catching glimpses of the rare desert-adapted lions or other elusive species that call this harsh region home. Our journey will then take us to Opuwo, the administrative capital of the Kunene Region. This vibrant town serves as a gateway to the remote and culturally rich areas of northwest Namibia, and we’ll take some time to explore its bustling markets and diverse communities.

Leaving Opuwo, we’ll head into the western part of Etosha National Park, one of Namibia's premier wildlife destinations. Here, we'll have the chance to witness the incredible diversity of wildlife that the park is known for, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and a myriad of bird species. We’ll explore the network of waterholes, always hoping for a wild encounter.

Finally, our journey will take us south to Okapuka, just 30 min from the center of Windhoek, and where we will spend our last night before heading home.

Shipwreck Lodge

Tented Accommodation

NTT_bush_toilet_with_enclosure_and_wash_basin

Bush Loo

Wild Camping Accommodation

Tour Itinerary

Pre-tour: Apr 30, 2026
This tour starts and ends in Windhoek, Namibia. The best way to reach Windhoek is to book your direct flight from Frankfurt on Lufthansa. If you prefer there are other options; fly to Johannesburg via Newark (United) or Atlanta (Delta). Alternatively, you can connect through London Heathrow for a flight to Johannesburg on BA/AA. You will then need to catch the Airlink shuttle from Johannesburg which departs daily at around noon.

Obviously, if you are going to spend extra time in Namibia before or after the trip, this will not be relevant. Please let us know as soon as you have flight info so that we can arrange the necessary transfers to our hotel in Windhoek

Early Arrival Hotel in Johannesburg

We recommend that if you arrive the day before the tour starts that you stay at the City Lodge, OR Tambo International Airport. This stylish, comfortable hotel is conveniently located directly adjacent to Johannesburg’s International Airport. A number of Johannesburg’s most important business facilities, commercial hubs, shopping centres and restaurants are found nearby.

Day 1: May 1—Arrive Windhoek

A very warm welcome to Hosea Kutako International Airport! After completing the immigration procedures, we fetch our luggage and proceed to the arrival hall of the airport, where our English-speaking driver-guide welcomes us to Namibia. We then drive to Windhoek. Depending on our arrival time, we can go on a city tour with our guide. Check-in time at lodges and hotels throughout the country is 14:00.

O/N The Weinberg - Courtyard Fountain Rooms

At The Weinberg Windhoek, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the pleasures of city life and the serene atmosphere of Africa, all in style. The hotel's iconic design effortlessly combines old-world charm with modern lines and state-of-the-art amenities. The elegant architecture surrounds a heritage building that serves as the heart of the Am Weinberg Estate. Guests can also enjoy a variety of dining options with restaurants offering different culinary styles and relax at the appealing Life Day Spa.

Day 2: May 2—Windhoek | Swakopmund

We enjoy breakfast before departing from Windhoek. Our travels take us via Okahandja, Karibib, and Usakos to the coastal city of Swakopmund, a charming coastal town with a unique blend of German colonial architecture and a laid-back beach vibe. It's where the desert meets the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning dunes and ocean views. The town is full of quirky shops, cozy cafes, and great seafood restaurants. With its cool, misty mornings and sunny afternoons, Swakopmund is a perfect spot to relax and explore.

We reach Swakopmund around lunchtime and in the afternoon, we explore the town with our guide.

O/N Delight Hotel (B)

Amidst the town's charming contrasts and rich traditions, Gondwana's Delight feels like a breath of fresh air in the desert. Conveniently located just a short walk from the 'Mole,' this modern, uplifting, and welcoming hotel is the perfect base for our stay.

Day 3: May 3—Swakopmund

Pick up for our Living Desert Tour from our hotel is at 08h00. This guided tour is an immersive experience that delves into the unique ecosystem of the Namib Desert. We traverse the sand dunes between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, discovering the area's remarkable endemic fauna and flora. We will learn about the specialized adaptations of creatures like the Namib Desert chameleon and the sidewinding snake, as well as the hardy plant life. The tour also covers the geological features and the importance of conservation efforts to protect this fragile environment. It's a fascinating journey into one of the world's oldest and most arid deserts.

Afternoon is spent at leisure in Swakopmund.

O/N Delight Hotel (B)

Day 4 & 5: May 4-5—Swakopmund | Shipwreck Lodge

Very early departure from Swakopmund via Henties Bay to Möwe Bay. The drive takes approximately 6 - 7 hours and you need to reach Möwe Bay in time for the escorted transfer to the lodge at 15h00.

We will spend the next two nights at Shipwreck Lodge, taking part in the scheduled activities included in our stay including a captivating late afternoon drive as the sun starts to set, casting a golden glow over the ancient desert and the wild Atlantic Ocean. Our expert guides will take us to one of two mesmerizing destinations: the ocean shores or the Roaring Dunes, both offering breathtaking views. At the ocean's edge, we'll witness the magical dance of the setting sun against the endless expanse of water. We'll feel the cool ocean breeze on our skin and listen to the rhythmic crashing of the waves. Alternatively, we'll head to the Roaring Dunes, where we can experience a unique phenomenon. As the dry sand cascades down the crest of the dunes, it creates a soft, roaring sound that's truly mesmerizing.

During our excursions, we'll enjoy a selection of delicious snacks while soaking in the surroundings. As we indulge in these treats, our guide will share captivating stories and information about the area and its remarkable inhabitants. We'll learn about the unique adaptations of the animals and plants that thrive in this harsh environment, gaining a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of life here. It's a perfect way to connect with nature and each other.

O/N Shipwreck Lodge (2 Nights)(FULLY INCLUSIVE)

Shipwreck Lodge offers a unique stay on Namibia's Skeleton Coast, where luxury meets rugged desert beauty. Nestled among the dunes, it features stylish, eco-friendly chalets with panoramic views. Guests enjoy guided wildlife safaris, scenic drives, and exceptional dining, all while immersed in the dramatic, desolate landscape.

Day 6 & 7: May 6-7—Shipwreck Lodge | Hoanib River Valley

Escorted transfer from Shipwreck Lodge to Lylandsdrift. We'll travel in our own tour vehicle, accompanied by a vehicle and driver from Shipwreck Lodge to show us the way. The transfer takes about 6 hours, and we'll reach our wild camping site, where our back-up crew will have already set up everything for us.

O/N Wild Camping in dome tents (2 Nights) (FULL BOARD)

Day 8: May 8—Hoanib River Valley | Sesfontein

After breakfast, we’ll enjoy a short hike to check out the game activities from the night around camp. Then, we’ll continue our journey to Sesfontein, where we’ll spend two nights at the Sesfontein Guesthouse.

O/N Sesfontein Guesthouse (B,D)

Sesfontein Guesthouse is located in the center of the village of Sesfontein. Staying here offers a truly rural experience, with donkey carts often passing by and the sound of crowing chickens waking you up well before dawn.

Day 9: May 9—Sesfontein

While we are in Sesfontein, we have the chance to meet the Herero people, a fascinating community with a rich cultural heritage. The Herero are known for their distinctive traditional clothing and vibrant, colorful dresses, which reflect their deep cultural roots. As we interact with them, we’ll learn about their traditional way of life, including their customs, ceremonies, and history. We might hear stories about their past and witness their unique art and crafts.

The Herero and Himba tribes (whom we will meet in the coming days) share a common ancestry and cultural heritage. Both tribes are descendants of the Bantu people and speak the Otjiherero language. Historically, they were part of the same group but diverged due to differing lifestyles and migration patterns. The Himba maintained a traditional nomadic and pastoral lifestyle, while the Herero adopted more settled agricultural practices. Despite these differences, they share similar customs, dress, and beliefs, such as the importance of cattle in their culture. The Himba and Herero maintain close social ties, often intermarrying and participating in each other's cultural ceremonies.

O/N Sesfontein Guesthouse (B,D)

Day 10: May 10—Sesfontein | Purros

We'll have breakfast at Sesfontein Guesthouse before heading to Purros. Even though the distance isn't far, the drive takes quite a while. We'll arrive at Okahirongo Elephant Lodge in the afternoon and spend two nights there. During our stay, we'll enjoy the scheduled activities, including visits to several Himba communities.

O/N Wild Camping in dome tents (FULL BOARD)

Day 11 & 12: May 11-12—Purros | Orupembe

From Purros, our journey takes us further north to the Orupembe Conservancy, a vast and rugged wilderness filled with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Known for its dramatic mountains, riverbeds, and desert scenery, it offers a unique habitat for rare species like desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos. The conservancy focuses on sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. We'll spend two nights at Etambura Camp, where we'll have the chance to interact with the nomadic Himba people living in the area. We'll explore one of their villages, see inside a traditional hut, and learn about their customs and way of life.

O/N Etambura Camp (2 Nights) (FULL BOARD)

Etambura Camp is our eco-friendly retreat perched on a hilltop in Namibia's Orupembe Conservancy. It offers us stunning panoramic views of the vast Kaokoland landscape and nearby riverbeds. With traditional Himba-style accommodations and a focus on sustainability, it's the perfect place for a peaceful, culturally immersive experience. This is a self-catering camp, but the guides will prepare the meals for us.

Day 13: May 13—Orupembe | Opuwo

We’ll head out early from Etambura and make our way to Opuwo. The drive is an adventure in itself as we traverse stunning, rugged landscapes with the vast desert stretching before us and dramatic mountains in the distance. As we navigate the dirt roads, we might spot wildlife like springboks and, if we’re lucky, some desert-adapted elephants. We’ll pass through small, remote villages and catch glimpses of traditional Himba life. The changing scenery keeps us captivated, and before we know it, we’ll arrive in Opuwo—a bustling town full of vibrant cultures and local color. The journey takes about 7 to 8 hours, depending on the road conditions.

O/N Opuwo Country Lodge - Luxury Rooms (B,D)

The Luxury Rooms at Opuwo Country Lodge offer a blend of comfort and elegance. Each room features stylish décor, air conditioning, and a private balcony with stunning views of the Kaokoland landscape. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, spacious bathrooms, and easy access to the lodge's pool and restaurant

Day 14, 15 & 16: May 14, 15 & 16—Opuwo | Etosha NP

We’ll travel through the Galton Gate into the western part of Etosha National Park, where we’ll spend the next three days exploring in our own tour vehicles. Around Dolomite Camp and in this part of the park, we’ll discover some of Namibia's most stunning and untamed landscapes. With dramatic rocky outcrops and wide-open plains, we might spot herds of springboks and zebras grazing against a rugged backdrop. This less-frequented region offers a more serene and exclusive safari experience. We’ll check out the waterholes where wildlife, including large breeding herds of elephants, often gathers. The camp’s elevated position gives us amazing views of the surrounding terrain.

O/N Dolomite Camp - Bush Chalet (3 Nights) (B,D)

Dolomite Camp in Etosha National Park offers an exclusive retreat with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Its elevated, tented lodges blend luxury with nature, providing a unique vantage point for observing wildlife. With its eco-friendly design and remote location, it promises an intimate and immersive safari experience.

Day 17: May 17—Etosha NP | Okapuka

Today, we'll leave Etosha Park through the Anderson Gate and travel via Outjo, Otjiwarongo, and Okahandja to the Okapuka Safari Lodge, located just north of Windhoek where you spend your final night in Namibia. In the afternoon, we'll join a sundowner drive on the lodge property.

O/N Okapuka Safari Lodge (B,D)

Experience Africa’s wild side at the doorstep of Namibia’s capital Windhoek, just a 30 minute drive from the center of town. Surrounded by a 7300 ha living escape of prime African savannah, Okapuka Safari Lodge is an oasis of lush green lawns under ancient camel thorn trees against the backdrop of a towering mountain range.

Day 18: May 18—Okapuka | Windhoek

Depending on our departure flight times, we’ll have some leisure time at Okapuka to relax and soak up the last bits of our Namibian adventure. Our guide will then drive us to Hosea Kutako International Airport. After checking in for our flight home, we’ll bid a fond farewell to Namibia, carrying with us great memories of an unforgettable trip!

(B)

END OF TOUR

Arrival, Departure & Visa

Arrival & Meeting Place
This tour starts and ends in Windhoek, Namibia. The best way to reach Windhoek's Hosea Kutako Airport is to book your direct flight from Frankfurt on Lufthansa. If you prefer there are other options; fly to Johannesburg via Newark (United) or Atlanta (Delta). Alternatively, you can connect through London Heathrow for a flight to Johannesburg on BA/AA. You will then need to catch the Airlink shuttle from Johannesburg which departs daily at around noon.

Departure
Windhoek Hosea Kutako Airport

Visa
From April, 2025, US nationals, along with those from Germany,Canada, the UK and 29 other countries, will require a visa for entry. These include all “non-reciprocating countries” - meaning the new visa rules will affect citizens from all countries that require Namibian passport holders to have visas.

Weather

Namibia can be visited throughout the year. The climate is generally dry and pleasant. Namibia only receives a fraction of the rain experienced by countries further east. Between December and March, some days will be humid and rain may follow, often in localized, afternoon thunderstorms. Wildlife viewing in all parks, but especially in Etosha, is best in the dry season from June to October. In the Wet season, animals move away from the waterholes and scatter around the park.

Language

English is the official language, but Namibia's relatively small population is extraordinarily diverse in language and culture. More than 11 languages are indigenous to Namibia but with its cosmopolitan society, languages from around the world are spoken in Namibia. People commonly speak two or three languages and more than 49% of the population speaks Oshiwambo. Due to the country's colonial history Afrikaans, the language of the previous South African occupiers is still widely spoken and functions as the lingua franca in Namibia. Namibia has two small groups of nomadic groups; the Khoisan speaking people, known as the Bushmen or San and the Ovahimba people, figuratively known as the red people.

Currency

The Namibian Dollar is the official currency and is fixed to and equals the South African Rand. Both these currencies can be used freely in Namibia, but the Namibian Dollar is not legal tender in South Africa. Traveler's checks and credit cards are also accepted throughout the country, though obviously not in every case. It's best to travel with multiple payment options just in case.

Currency Exchange: Foreign currency can be exchanged during normal banking hours at any of the commercial banks, or at bureau de change offices. Credit/Debit Card: American Express, MasterCard and Visa are accepted. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services, which may be available.

Currency Restrictions: The import and export of local currency is limited to NAD 50,000. The import of foreign currency by visitors is unlimited, provided it is declared upon arrival. Export of foreign currency is unlimited up to the amount imported and declared as long as the departure is within 12 months. No limits exist for travel between Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and Swaziland as these countries are members of the same common monetary area.

Banking Hours: Mon-Fri 09:00-15:30, Sat 09:00-11:00.

Tax and Customs: General Sales Tax (GST) in Namibia is 15% on goods and services. Bona fide tourists to Namibia are exempt from paying sales duty or excise duty on luxury items. Visitors may reclaim VAT at Hosea Kutako International Airport, Eros Airport and Walvis Bay Airport.

Fast Facts

Area: Namibia covers 824,292 sq km (318,259 sq mi)

Location: Situated on the southwestern coast of Africa, Namibia borders Angola and Zambia in the north, South Africa in the south and Botswana in the east.

Population: Slightly more than 2.3 million.

Capital City: Windhoek

Official name: Republic of Namibia

Date of Independence: 21 March 1990

System of Government: Multi-party Democracy

Head of State: President Dr Hage Geingob since 2015.

Prime Minister: Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila since 2015.

Language: English, German, Afrikaans, Oshiwambo, Rukwangari, Silozi, Otjiherero, Damara, Nama, Khisan and Setswana

Literacy: The current literacy rate in Namibia is about 83%, one of the highest in Africa.

Religion: Freedom of religion was adopted through Namibia's Bill of Fundamental Rights. About 90% of the population is Christian.

Currency: The Namibia Dollar (N$); the Namibia Dollar and South African Rand are the only legal tender in Namibia and can be used freely to purchase goods and services.

Time Zones: Summer time: GMT + 2 hours from the 1st Sunday in September to the 1st Sunday in April. Winter time: GMT + 1 hour from the 1st Sunday in April to the 1st Sunday in September.

Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50hz. Outlets are of the round three-pin type.

WAITING LIST
$11,950**
$2,000 DEPOSIT
$1,200 SINGLE

**PRICES ARE BASED ON 2025 RATES. IN THE EVENT OF AN INCREASE FOR 2026 THERE MAY BE A SURCHARGE. 2026 PRICING WILL BE AVAILABLE BY MAY 2025.

PAY TOUR FEES

REGISTRATION FORM

Cookies must be accepted in order to display this content. Accept

Tour Price Includes

Transport in Toyota Land Cruisers, including fuel for the duration of the tour
Backup vehicle and back up crew for the wild camping, including equipment hire and meals for the self-catering accommodation and the wild camping
7 x overnight on dinner & breakfast basis
3 x overnight on bed & breakfast basis
2 x overnight on Fully Inclusive basis
5 x overnight on full board basis
Scheduled activities at Shipwreck Lodge, Hoanib Valley Camp and Okahirongo Elephant Lodge
Entrance fees to Etosha
Concession fees for the wild camping
Himba and Herero interaction as specified above
Service of qualified English speaking driver guides for the duration of the tour.
Porterages for the duration of the tour
1.5L per person per day still mineral water on board the tour vehicle
Tourism Levies and VAT

Tour Price Excludes

Expenses of a personal nature, i.e. laundry, telephone expenses, gratuities etc
Any additional meals & drinks
Any additional activities
Any entrance fees not mentioned
Visa fees to Namibia
Any scheduled flights and related taxes
Cancellation, baggage, medical and evacuation insurance
Any new Government taxes, levies, etc which are beyond our control
all services that are not mentioned.

Paying by check

If you would like to pay your deposit and/or balance with a check, please make the check payable to: Pixelchrome, Inc and mail it to:

Nicole Woodhouse

Pixelchrome, Inc,

605 Rouen Drive,

McKinney TX 75072

Paying by Wire Transfer

If you would like to pay by Wire Transfer please contact nicole@pixelchrome.com for bank account details.

Camera Equipment Checklist

Bring you own laptop computer and storage media
Camera body(ies)
Lenses, 16-35mm, 24-70mm zoom and 70-200mm zoom or similar lenses are very good. A super telephoto zoom up to 400 or 600mm
Light bag for easy hiking with camera bodies and accessories
Cleaning kit for cameras and lenses
Rain/dust covers for cameras and lenses
Charger for batteries
Spare batteries
Spare Memory cards
Memory card reader
USB key to exchange images

Also good to have

Tripod
Lens extenders
Good quality polarizing filter