7 Days Namibia Safari – Desert, Wildlife & Coastal Adventure

Overview

Discover the dramatic beauty of Namibia on this unforgettable 7-day safari with Benson Safaris. From the vibrant capital of Windhoek to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park, the scenic landscapes of Damaraland, the coastal charm of Swakopmund, and the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert, this journey showcases Namibia’s most iconic destinations. Enjoy exciting game drives, cultural encounters, and breathtaking desert scenery while travelling through one of Africa’s most unique and photogenic countries. This safari offers the perfect blend of wildlife, landscapes, and adventure for an unforgettable Namibian experience.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek – Wildlife Sanctuary Visit

Upon arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your accommodation in the city. After check-in and some time to relax, guests arriving before midday will enjoy an afternoon excursion to the renowned N/a’an ku se Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 50 km east of Windhoek.

The sanctuary is dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured, orphaned, and rescued wildlife with the aim of returning them to their natural habitat whenever possible. During your visit, you may encounter animals such as baboons, caracals, lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and leopards, while learning about Namibia’s conservation efforts. Later in the afternoon, return to Windhoek where you can enjoy dinner at one of the city’s excellent restaurants.

Day 2: Windhoek – Etosha National Park

After an early breakfast, you will depart Windhoek and travel north toward Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves. Along the way, a short stop will be made in the town of Otjiwarongo before continuing the journey into the park.

Etosha covers more than 22,000 square kilometres and is home to an incredible variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and numerous antelope species. After entering the park, enjoy your first exciting game drive while travelling toward your lodge. In the evening, relax at camp and visit the floodlit waterhole where wildlife often gathers after sunset.

Day 3: Full Day Safari in Etosha National Park

Today is dedicated to exploring the vast landscapes of Etosha National Park. After breakfast, set out on a full-day game drive with your guide in search of wildlife. Early mornings are particularly rewarding for spotting predators returning from their nighttime hunts.

Etosha’s unique desert ecosystem revolves around its waterholes, which attract animals from across the park. During the day, you will also visit the famous Etosha Pan – a massive white salt pan so large it can be seen from space. Enjoy incredible wildlife sightings while exploring the park before heading to your lodge in the late afternoon.

Day 4: Etosha – Damaraland – Swakopmund

After breakfast, depart Etosha and journey through the rugged landscapes of Damaraland. This region is known for its dramatic scenery, vast open plains, granite mountains, and traditional communities. Along the way, there will be opportunities to interact with local Himba, Herero, and Damara artisans selling handcrafted souvenirs.

You will also pass the imposing Brandberg Mountain, Namibia’s highest peak, rising dramatically from the desert floor. As you continue west, the landscape gradually changes as you approach the Skeleton Coast and the Atlantic Ocean. Stop to photograph the famous Zeila Shipwreck before continuing to the coastal town of Swakopmund, known for its German colonial architecture and seaside charm.

Day 5: Swakopmund – Namib Desert – Sossusvlei

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Swakopmund with time to explore the town or participate in optional activities such as quad biking or sandboarding in the nearby dunes. Late in the morning, depart for the Namib Desert.

Your journey will take you across vast gravel plains and through scenic mountain passes including the Kuiseb and Gaub Passes. Along the way, stop at the Tropic of Capricorn for photos before continuing through the desert landscape to the small settlement of Solitaire. Later in the day, arrive at your lodge near Sossusvlei where you can relax and prepare for tomorrow’s desert adventure.

Day 6: Sossusvlei, Deadvlei & Sesriem Canyon

Today begins before sunrise to catch the spectacular desert light over the towering dunes of Sossusvlei. Enter the Namib-Naukluft National Park at sunrise and travel deep into the dune fields. These giant dunes, some rising over 300 meters high, glow in brilliant shades of orange and red during the early morning light.

Visit the famous Deadvlei, a surreal white clay pan dotted with ancient camelthorn trees that have stood for centuries. There will also be time to climb one of the world’s tallest sand dunes and enjoy the breathtaking desert views. On the return journey, visit Sesriem Canyon, a natural gorge carved by the Tsauchab River over millions of years.

After a full day exploring the desert, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.

Day 7: Sossusvlei – Windhoek Departure

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Windhoek. Stop at the small desert settlement of Solitaire, famous for its delicious homemade apple pie, before continuing through the scenic mountains of Namibia’s central plateau.

Arrive in Windhoek in the afternoon where you will be transferred to Hosea Kutako International Airport or your chosen accommodation, marking the end of your incredible Namibia safari adventure with Benson Safaris.