Onguma Game Reserve – Swakopmund – Sossusvlei – Zannier Reserve
8 Days / 7 Nights
8 Persons
July 2024
Price: Starting from US$ 8,095 per person sharing
Included in the above price:
1 x Luxury 9-Seater Safari Landcruiser, water + alcoholic beverages & soft drinks, guide services from day 1 – day 8,
fuel, accommodation, meals, activities, park fees and porterage fee as stated included.
Excluded in the above price:
Personal insurance, international flights, visas, other meals not stated included, optional activities, are not stated
included in your offer.
Day 1: Onguma Camp Kala, Onguma Game Reserve
Day Itinerary
Upon arriving at Hosea Kutako Internationals Airport (arrive with the morning flight), you will be meet by your guide
with an A4 sign with your name. Tour documents will be handed to you for your tour briefing with your tour
consultant. Depart to your lodge Etosha and embark on a PM game drive on the Onguma Reserve included.
Onguma Game Reserve
Situated east of Etosha, bordering Fisher’s Pan, Onguma Game Reserve is one of Namibia’s best-kept secrets. The
reserve offers visitors the opportunity to experience Africa in all her beauty and diversity. Onguma Game Reserve
features over 34000 hectares of protected land scattered with a variety of wildlife including plains game, black rhino,
kudu, giraffe, zebra, lion, cheetah, leopard and more than 300 bird species. The seasonal rains attract thousands of
migrating birds to the Fisher’s Pan wetland area. The neighbouring Etosha National Park is home to a rich array of
wildlife, including four of the Big 5. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks and rhino research drives within the
private reserve as well as wildlife safaris into Etosha National Park to view abundant game in the largest national
park in Namibia.
Overnight: Onguma Camp Kala
On the eastern boundary of Etosha National Park in Namibia is Onguma Nature Reserve, a private wilderness
spanning 34,000 ha. Within this reserve, elevated on wooden decks and with panoramic views over one of Onguma’s
most beautiful and active waterholes is the exclusive and intimate Onguma Camp Kala.
Appealing to the sophisticated luxury adventure traveller seeking authenticity and deep comfort, the camp
accommodates just eight guests in 4 suites. Spacious and private, the open-plan suites have a sumptuous bedroom
and comfortable lounge with a state-of-the-art air-cooling system, and a beautiful bathroom with bespoke double
vanities, full-size free-standing bathtub and generous shower. Each suite has its own deck with plunge pool, wood-
fired hot tub and along a short walkway, a private, shaded Sala with an outdoor daybed – perfectly placed for an
armchair safari – or even a “sleep out” under the stars.
In the central guest area, there is a comfortable lounge, cocktail bar and an expansive deck. The dining area has an
open plan, interactive ‘show’ kitchen and all-day pantry for tasty treats. A highlight at Camp Kala is undoubtedly the
ground-level photographic hide which offers a different perspective of all the waterhole action. There is also a gym,
spa and yoga deck.
Basis
Fully Inclusive includes: Accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner (4-course), Beverages – Bar and
Mini Bar (beers, local spirits, soft drinks, water and house wines), 2 Activities per night stayed –Sundowner Drive (on
Onguma Reserve) and Etosha AM Game Drive.
Day 2: Onguma Camp Kala, Onguma Game Reserve
Day Itinerary
Today is purely devoted to game viewing in Etosha National Park with your lodge (included). Guided Interpretive
Bush Walks offered at your lodge or Mid-morning Onkolo Hide and Afternoon Sundowner Drive (client to choose
their preferred activities as per lodge’s schedule included).
Basis
Fully Inclusive includes: Accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner (4-course), Beverages – Bar and
Mini Bar (beers, local spirits, soft drinks, water and house wines), 2 Activities per night stayed –Sundowner Drive (on
Onguma Reserve) and Etosha AM Game Drive.
Day 3: Strand Hotel Swakopmund, Swakopmund
Day Itinerary
After breakfast, depart to Swakopmund en route enjoy game viewing while driving through Etosha National Park.
Check in at your hotel, explore Swakopmund and evening is spent at leisure. Dinner at Ocean Cellar Restaurant
located at your hotel with your guide.
Swakopmund
Set along Namibia’s spectacularly scenic coast, the seaside town of Swakopmund is known for its wide-open
avenues, colonial architecture, and its surrounding otherworldly desert terrain. Founded in 1892 as the main
harbour for German South-West Africa, Swakopmund is often described as being more German than Germany. Now
a seaside resort town, Swakopmund is the capital of the Skeleton Coast tourism area and has plenty to keep visitors
happy. The quirky mix of German and Namibian influences, adventure options, laid-back atmosphere and cool sea
breeze make it a very popular Namibian destination. Visitors can look forward to a number of exciting activities
including: quad biking, horse riding, paragliding, fishing, sightseeing and fascinating desert tours.
Overnight: Strand Hotel Swakopmund
With its extensive, unique and creatively entertaining Restaurants, Bars, Deli, Lobby-Lounge, Sea Facing Terraces,
Beach Kiosk and state of the art Conference & Banqueting Center, all set on the Mole, a historic and iconic site
surrounded by Ocean on three sides, the Strand Hotel Swakopmund is a social epicenter and destination in itself for
all visitors to and residents of Swakopmund.
Its architectural inspiration finds its roots deep in Namibian-German history and reflects this in a tasteful
contemporary manner. The interiors are residential in nature, and the brief to all designers involved was to create a
non-hotel, hotel. One as charming and welcoming as the town it is located in. Simply very warm and comfortable,
and as they say in German: “gemütlich” providing a genuine “sense-of-place” atmosphere adding to any Namibian
visit.
Arriving at the Strand is a dramatic experience as one passes through its 13m high and 9m wide Ocean View Atrium
which travels right through the Hotel offering sea views at either end. Off this Atrium Lobby is Reception, consisting
of three individual desks and an inviting open fireplace which rounds off the residential feel and warm welcome.
Basis
Half Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Activities + (Drink voucher to the value of N$ 1,000.00 per person)
Day 4: Strand Hotel Swakopmund, Swakopmund
Day Itinerary
Breakfast, depart to Swakopmund Airport and embark on your Skeleton Coast Scenic flight (1Hr 30 min) followed by
you half day Sandwich Harbour Tour (Ocean meets the Desert), drinks, finger foods, fresh Oysters and Champagne
included. Dinner at Brewer & Butchers with your guide.
Basis
Half Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Activities + (Drink voucher to the value of N$ 1,000.00 per person)
Day 5: Wilderness Little Kulala, Sossusvlei
Day Itinerary
Leaving Swakopmund to Sossusvlei, en route don’t miss the photographic opportunity at Tropic of Capricorn and
make a stop at Solitaire to taste Africa’s best Apple Pies with your guide. Check in at your lodge and embark on a
sundowner excursion as per lodge’s schedule included.
Sossusvlei
Located in the scenic Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is where you will find the iconic red sand dunes of the
Namib. The clear blue skies contrast with the giant red dunes to make this one of the most scenic natural wonders of
Africa and a photographer’s heaven. This awe-inspiring destination is possibly Namibia’s premier attraction, with its
unique dunes rising to almost 400 metres – making them some of the highest in the world. These iconic dunes come
alive in morning and evening light and draw photography enthusiasts from around the globe. Sossusvlei is home to a
variety of desert wildlife including oryx, springbok, ostrich and a variety of reptiles. Visitors can climb ‘Big Daddy’,
one of Sossusvlei’s tallest dunes; explore Deadvlei, a white, salt, claypan dotted with ancient trees; or for the more
extravagant, scenic flights and hot air ballooning are on offer, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime champagne breakfast
amidst these majestic dunes.
Overnight: Wilderness Little Kulala
Wilderness Little Kulala is the closest luxury desert retreat to the famous, seen-from-space Sossusvlei dunes. Guests
enjoy exclusive private concession access and the camp’s location makes early morning dune visits (to see Sossusvlei
at its best) very easy.
Eleven luxury desert suites expanded to offer improved airflow, each have a private plunge pool, private rooftop
area for sundowners, “African tapas” and other rooftop dinners or stargazing, a signature sleep-out experience on
the bottom deck of each accommodation to allow for easy access during the night, luxury fittings, as well as indoor
and outdoor showers. In terms of colour and form, Wilderness Little Kulala blends seamlessly into the desert
landscape with interiors reflecting the environment. Activities make the most of the solitude and stark beauty of the
Namib Desert, with nature drives and guided walks revealing the majesty and mystery of the Namib Sand Sea.
INSIDER’S TIP: Experience the desert from new heights … a hot air balloon excursion provides awe-inspiring views of
the dramatic scenery below.
Basis
Fully Inclusive rate includes: accommodation, all meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry,
Namibian VAT & Tourism Levy, and local drinks + additional N$ 500 drinks tab – excludes premium imported brands
and champagne.
Day 6: Wilderness Little Kulala, Sossusvlei
Day Itinerary
Today deserves an early start, embark a ballooning Safari with Namib Sky Balloon Safaris followed by a breakfast
picnic included (pick up time to be advised a day before the activity). Embark on a Sossusvlei excursion with your
lodge included. Evening is spent at leisure.
Basis
Fully Inclusive rate includes: accommodation, all meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry,
Namibian VAT & Tourism Levy, and local drinks + additional N$ 500 drinks tab – excludes premium imported brands
and champagne.
Day 7: Zannier Hotels Omaanda, Zannier Reserve
Day Itinerary
Today’s journey takes us to greater Windhoek (Zannier Omaanda Reserve) with a stop in Windhoek to explore city
centre, buy a souvenir or 2. Arriving at the lodge, embark on a evening game drive on the Zannier reserve as per your
lodge’s schedule. Evening is spent at leisure.
Zannier Reserve
Situated just 30 minutes east of Namibia’s Windhoek International airport, Zannier Reserve stretches for 900 square
kilometres. It is known for its scenic savanna-covered landscapes inhabited by a vast variety of wildlife. Commonly
spotted species include: leopard, giraffe, warthog, antelope, ostrich and jackal. It is also home to the Shiloh Wildlife
Sanctuary which provides a refuge for injured or abandoned rhinos and elephants. Visitors can look forward to
spotting an array of wildlife, soaking up the beautiful views, and enjoying a guided safari to track the animals.
Overnight: Zannier Hotels Omaanda
Omaanda, meaning rhinoceros in Oshiwambo, is a five-star lodge set within the Zannier Reserve by N/a’an ku sê, an
incredible private animal conservation reserve of 9000 hectares in the countryside surrounding Windhoek.
Overlooking the boundless savannah, the lodge offers 10 comfortable round thatched huts, paying tribute to the
traditional architecture of Ovambo. It also features a restaurant and a cosy bar, overlooking a heated infinity pool. A
spa and a boma complete the lodge facilities, offering a typically local place to meet and mingle by the fire. For
safety reasons Omaanda only welcome children from 6 years onwards. The close proximity to Windhoek and the
International Airport make Omaanda the perfect choice for the first and last nights of guest’s stay in Namibia,
promising a locally authentic experience.
Basis
All-inclusive rate includes: accommodation, full board meals, all beverages except
premium spirits and Champagne, and a non-private sunset OR sunrise conservation
drive. The non-private sunset OR sunrise conservation drive can be exchanged for a
60-minute spa treatment.
Day 8: End of Itinerary
Day Itinerary
At time to be advised, debriefing with your consultant and guide. Transferred to Hosea Kutako International Airport
by your guide for your flight back home. Say good bye to your guide. We hope you had a wonderful safari with us
and have a safe flight.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Travel Information
Located in southwestern Africa, Namibia boasts a well-developed infrastructure, some of the best tourist facilities in
Africa, and an impressive list of breathtaking natural wonders. Visitors can explore the capital of Windhoek and
discover the lovely coastal town of Swakopmund boasting remnants of the country’s German influence, reflected in
the architecture, culture, cuisine and the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. To properly appreciate this extraordinary
country, you will have to venture out of the cities to explore the remarkable natural landscapes Namibia has to offer.
These include: the impressive Fish River Canyon; the vast Etosha National Park teeming with abundant wildlife, such
as lions, desert-adapted elephants and the Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra; the hauntingly beautiful Kalahari Desert;
and of course the Namib Desert stretching for over 2000 km along the magnificent Atlantic Coast. Namibia is an ideal
destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a uniquely beautiful untamed wilderness.
Banking and Currency
Currency
The currency of Namibia is The Namibian Dollar (NAD; symbol N$) is in note denominations of N$200, 100, 50, 20
and 10. Coins are in denominations of N$5, N$1, 50 cents, 10 cents and 5 cents. It is linked to the South African Rand
(R) on a 1:1 basis (South African Rand = 100 cents). The South African Rand is also acceptable as currency in Namibia.
The import and export of local currency is limited to N$50,000. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, provided
sums equal to or exceeding NAD5,000 are declared on arrival. Export of foreign currency is unlimited up to the
amount imported and declared.
Banking
Banking hours: Monday – Friday 09h00 to 15h30 and Satuday 08h30 to 11h00
Banks are found in most towns, with most being closed on Sundays and public holidays. Most of them offer foreign
exchange services – with cash, bank and credit cards as well as travellers cheques.
American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard and Visa are accepted. Credit cards are not usually accepted at petrol
stations, so bear this in mind when you visit the ATM. Setting aside an emergency petrol cash fund is a good idea if
you’re planning to drive.
You can also obtain cash from many of the ATMs. Several international banks have branches in main city centres.
Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they
have not been informed.
To avoid additional exchange rate charges, take traveller’s cheques in US Dollars or South African Rand. In general,
you can expect a better exchange rate for traveller’s cheques than for cash.
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Public transport in Namibia is geared towards the needs of the local populace, and is confined to main roads
between major population centres. Although cheap and reliable, it is of little use to the traveller as most of
Namibia’s tourist attractions lie off the beaten track.
It is easy to travel around Namibia by car, and a 2WD vehicle is perfectly adaquate for most journeys. However, long
distances, poor mobile phone coverage outside of main towns and infrequent petrol stations that only accept cash
mean that planning ahead is vital.
There are major airlines that fly into Windhoek and Swakopmund. Other destinations are reachable by car or charter
flight.
Namibians drive on the left and all signposts are in English. Seat belts must be worn at all times and talking in a
mobile phone while driving is prohibited. The general speed limit is 120km/h on tarred roads outside of towns and
100km/h on gravel roads. In built up areas, the speed limit is 60km/h.
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Traditional Namibian cuisine is rarely served and so the food at restaurants tends to be European in style and is,
generally, of a very high standard.
Namibia is very meat-orientated, and many menu options will feature steaks from various animals. However, there is
usually a vegetarian and seafood section offered by most camps and restaurants.
In the supermarkets you’ll find pre-wrapped fresh fruit and vegetables (though the more remote the areas you visit,
the smaller your choice), and plenty of canned foods, pasta, rice, bread, etc. Most of this is imported from South
Africa.
The water in Namibia’s main towns is generally safe to drink, though it may taste a little metallic if it has been piped
for miles. Natural sources should usually be purified, though water from underground springs and dry riverbeds
seldom causes any problems. However, filtered and bottled water are readily available in most towns and all camps,
lodges and hotels.
Climate and Weather
Partially covered by the Namib Desert, one of the world’s driest deserts, Namibia’s climate is generally very dry and
pleasant – it’s fine to visit all year round. Namibia only receives a fraction of the rain experienced by countries
further east. Between about December to March some days will be humid and rain may follow, often in localised,
afternoon thunderstorms. These are more common in the centre and east of the country, and more unusual in the
desert.
April and especially May are often lovely months in Namibia. Increasingly dry, with a real freshness in the air, and
much greenery in the landscape; at this time the air is clear and largely free from dust.
From June to August Namibia cools down and dries out more; nights can become cold, dropping below freezing in
some desert areas. As the landscape dries so the game in the north of the country gravitates more to waterholes,
and is more easily seen by visitors. By September and October it warms up again; game-viewing in most areas is at
its best, although there’s often a lot of dust around and the vegetation has lost its vibrancy.
November is a highly variable month. Sometimes the hot, dry weather will continue, at other times the sky will fill
with clouds and threaten to rain – but if you’re lucky enough to witness the first rains of the season, you’ll never
forget the drama.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Namibia is a country with a diverse climate. It is recommended to pack lightweight clothing made of breathable
materials, such as cotton or linen, to combat the heat during the day. In the evenings, temperatures can drop
significantly, so it is best to pack warmer layers. Visitors can bring hiking shoes or sneakers for outdoor activities.
Long pants and a shirt with buttons are often quite adequate for a formal occasion or work wear.
Internet Availability
Telecom Namibia offers a service called wi-space. You purchase a wi-space voucher that allows you to connect to
WiFi wherever you see the wi-space logo (about 40 locations in Namibia).
Alternatively good WiFi access is available at most holiday accommodation venues across the country (free / paid).
Electricity and Plug Standards
Electrical sockets in Namibia are Type M (SABS-1661). If your appliance’s plug doesn’t match the shape of these
sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your
appliance’s plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it’s crucial to be able to plug in no matter
what, bring an adapter for all types.
Electrical sockets in Namibia usually supply electricity at 230 volts AC / 50 Hz frequency. If you’re plugging in an
appliance that was built for 230 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then
an adapter is all you need. If your appliance isn’t compatible with 230 volts, a voltage converter will be necessary.