Upon arrival in Windhoek, Namibia’s charming capital, you will collect your 4x4 rental SUV and begin your adventure. From the airport, enjoy a scenic drive into the city, surrounded by rolling hills and wide open landscapes that offer your first taste of Africa.

After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure to get acquainted with this relaxed and welcoming town. Windhoek blends African and European influences, offering a unique atmosphere with clean streets, historic landmarks, and a laid-back pace.

Take time to explore Independence Avenue, visit local craft markets, or enjoy a meal at one of the city’s well-known restaurants. For those interested in culture, highlights such as the Christuskirche and the Independence Memorial Museum provide insight into Namibia’s history.

This first day is designed for you to unwind after your journey, adjust to the surroundings, and prepare for the exciting self-drive safari ahead.

Accommodation Included

Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

More Hotel Options

add-on per night
per person

Little Forest Garden Retreat Guesthouse		+$1
Hilton		+$3
Country Club Resort		+$28

Distance: ~320 km

Driving time: 4–4.5 hours (good tar road via B1 south, then C15 east)

Overnight: Kalahari Anib Lodge (Gondwana – has pool, shade, shop)

Tip: Stock up groceries in Windhoek. Fuel at Mariental (before turning off).

Accommodation Included

Kalahari Anib Lodge

Drive: ~550 km / 7 hours

Route: C15/C22 to Gobabis (gravel, good condition) → B8 tar to Grootfontein → B8 to Rundu

Lodge: Hakusembe River Lodge (on Okavango River, boat cruises available)

Suggestion: Leave early (07:00). Refuel in Gobabis and Grootfontein. Book the lodge’s sunset boat cruise – hippos and incredible light.

Accommodation Included

Hakusembe River Lodge

Drive: ~360 km / 4.5–5 hours

Route: B8 east through the Caprivi Strip – watch for elephants and buffalo on or near the road

Lodge: Namushasha River Lodge (elevated decks overlooking the Kwando River)

Suggestion: Arrive by mid‑afternoon. Take the lodge’s guided sunset boat cruise (Bwabwata National Park). Dinner at the riverside restaurant.

Accommodation Included

Namushasha River Lodge

Distance: ~230 km

Driving time: 3 hours (B8 east – easy day)

Overnight: Zambezi Mubala Lodge (on Zambezi River, just before Botswana border)

Tip: Use this as a short day to rest, do laundry, prepare for border crossing.

Accommodation Included

Zambezi Mubala Lodge

Distance: ~180 km (including border crossings)

Driving time: 3–4 hours (including border formalities at Ngoma Bridge or Kazungula)

Border crossing: Namibia → Botswana at Ngoma Bridge (simpler) or drive via Katima Mulilo to Kazungula (new bridge, then into Botswana side).
Recommend: Ngoma Bridge → then short drive to Kasane.

Overnight: Chobe River Camp (Gondwana’s camp on Chobe River – excellent)

Tip: Arrive early afternoon so you can do a sunset boat cruise on Chobe

Accommodation Included

Chobe River Camp

Distance to Vic Falls: ~80 km one way (Kasane to Victoria Falls town)

Driving time: 1 hour (via Kazungula border into Zimbabwe)

Border crossing: Botswana → Zimbabwe at Kazungula (new bridge – fast, but check visa requirements)

Activities at Victoria Falls:

Walk the falls (Zimbabwe side has better views in most seasons)

Helicopter flight (optional)

Lunch at The Lookout Cafe

Return drive: 1 hour back to Chobe River Campsite for second night

Tip: Keep passport, vehicle papers, and proof of insurance ready. Day trip no problem for camper rental.