Best of Namibia
This 13-day Best of Namibia Adventure Tour from Cape Town to Windhoek meanders through big sky country, Namibia! On departing Cape Town, you will stop to take the quintessential picture of Table Mountain. As you cross into Namibia, take a canoe trip on the Orange River and admire vast untouched desert landscape. As we venture deeper into the Namib Desert you’ll see the slowly changing landscapes which represents the many faces of this desert country.
Day 1: South Africa – Cederberg Region
The Cederberg region not only boasts spectacular mountains and orange farms, but it is also the home of the Rooibos bush. Indigenous to the mountain slopes of the Cedarberg, this herbal beverage has earned an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to regular tea. The Cedarberg region is known for its mountain fynbos and spectacular views of the rugged Cedarberg Mountains. A dinner at your overnight stop offers an opportunity for everyone to get acquainted while enjoying some South African hospitality.
Day 2: Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River
Namaqualand presents you with your first experience of the Desert vistas that will accompany you in the days ahead. Continue your journey north and after a short stop for supplies in Springbok, travel to your camp on the banks of the Orange River. If you are fortunate enough to be travelling in the spring months (July to September) you may encounter the wild flowers that have made this region famous. No matter the time of year though, the strange desert vistas offer a unique backdrop to this day’s travel.
Day 3: Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River – Fish River Canyon
While the Orange River was named after the Dutch Royal House, in recent times it has been referred to by its original name of Gariep, which simply means “river” in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language. Beginning its journey in the mountains of Lesotho, the Orange River is the longest river in South Africa and offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes along its banks. The best way to experience the river is by getting out on the water and this morning you have the opportunity to join an optional canoe trip on the river. Around midday (after lunch) you depart the Orange River and head inland, crossing the border into Namibia. We make a brief stop at the mineral hot springs for a dip in the pool before arriving at your camp in the late afternoon.
Day 4: Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground
Rise early this morning, pack up your camp (if you are camping), making your way to the rim of the Fish River Canyon. Arrive in time to catch the morning sun rays filter through the canyon. After stretching your legs with a gentle walk along the rim of the canyon, you turn west and head for Keetmanshoop. Your afternoon will be spent meandering through the Quiver Tree Forest and The Giants Playground – named for the way in which the massive dolerite boulders have been placed on each other – creating rock formations and a series of mazes.
Day 5: Namib-Naukluft National Park
Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as you venture deeper into the Namib Desert. Your destination is the dune fields that cover the western reaches of the desert. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands offer us an insight into the vastness of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes of the west, the slowly changing landscapes represents the many faces of this desert country. Tonight you stay on the doorstep of the dune fields and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko.
Day 6: Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park
Watching the sunrise over the red dunes is an iconic highlight of any trip to Namibia and this morning you rise before the sun to capture this magnificent moment. A brisk climb up Dune 45 offers a perfect vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert sunrise. Once satisfied you will descend this famous dune and enjoy a hearty breakfast before catching a 4×4 transfer into Sossusvlei, here you will spend time on foot visiting the pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight empty the red sand from your shoes and spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that you have spent a full-day enjoying the wonders of this harsh land. This afternoon join a local expert for an educational desert excursion.
Day 7: Swakopmund
Reluctantly you must leave the Namib behind and after a stop to mark our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn, continue to the Atlantic coastline. Today you will continue west and make your way to the coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure and a dose of civilisation await. Make a brief stop at the Walvis Bay lagoon, where you hope to catch a glimpse of the Flamingo’s that feed in the shallows. Arriving in Swakopmund you will have the opportunity to book some of the many adventures on offer.
Day 8: Swakopmund
While for many it is the adrenaline fuelled adventures that will grab their attention, Swakopmund offers all that and more. Take the opportunity today to explore the town at your leisure, as there are a number of attractions for every taste. Not to be missed is the selection of famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a delightful range of German inspired treats. Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a small city and is the perfect launching pad for the journey through the northern reaches of the land.
Day 9: Swakopmund
Today is another full day in this interesting and captivating beach desert town.
Day 10: Spitzkoppe to Brandberg
Leaving early, make your way to the massive granite formations of Spitzkoppe which tower 700 metres above the desert plains below. The presence of rock art indicates their significance to the San people who lived here many years ago. Enjoy a walk and have the opportunity to view some examples of the San’s rock art before setting off for your overnight stop for the evening.
Day 11: Brandberg White Lady
The Brandberg (Burning Mountains) are regarded as the highest in Namibia and home to the famous White Lady, one of more than 45,000 rock paintings in the area. This morning you will make the 1-hour hike to visit the painting that is said to be around 2,000 years old. (Please be advised that the hike does traverse rough terrain along the gorge of the normally dry Tsisab River). After your exploration, your journey continues to the area of Kamanjab.
Day 12: Etosha National Park
Rising early this morning you will drive to the Etosha National Park. Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. This afternoon you reach the park and begin with your first game drive as you make our way to the rest camp.
Day 13: Etosha National Park
Your second day in Etosha allows for a full day to continue your exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the suspense before that special sighting is the motivation that keeps your eyes wide open. Explore the edges of Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occurs in the park.
Day 14: Windhoek
It is an early rise as you take aim for Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. Upon arrival in Windhoek, you will take a short walk through the city centre and have the opportunity to view some its better known landmarks. (Your accommodation for the night is situated halfway between the city and the airport).
Cost for the camping tour start at: CHF 1320 per person sharing
Cost for the accommodated tour start at: CHF 1920 per person sharing
Included meals:
12 Breakfast
8 Lunches
10 Dinners
Activity package costs: CHF 50
These costs are an indiction of the initial tour cost. The idea is to allow all guests to enjoy these tours and therefore the minimum cost is displayed. Any additional activities will incur a cost.
Best of Botswana
Enjoy a trip through Botswana and see all the amazing highlights. First day we are leaving Maun and set off for the world’s largest inland delta, a labyrinth of lagoons, lakes and hidden channels covering 17 000 square kilometres. Water levels and temperatures fluctuate significantly from season to season so no two experiences are ever the same. Polers guide your mokoros through the waterways and nature walks will fill your days. We make our way to Chobe National Park where we will spend the afternoon viewing game from the comfort of a river boat. Chobe National Park is undoubtedly the country’s most beautiful and popular nature and game reserve. It has one of the largest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, making it an ideal location for African safaris and its the third largest park in Botswana, after the Central Kalahari game Reserve and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. After this we make our way to Victoria Falls where you can view the largest sheet of falling water in the world or partake in a myriad of activities on offer.
Day 1: Okavango Delta
The most rewarding and enjoyable way to explore and experience the beauty and serenity of this intricate system of lily covered channels and lagoons, is by mokoro. Heading out early, you will be transferred by safari vehicle to the poling station (approximately 1 hour transfer) where you will meet the polers who will be escorting you into the Delta. The polers will steer through the serene area of narrow, reed lined channels which open out onto beautiful lagoons. Reaching one of the many islands, a nature walk may be taken with your poler. After the walk, return by mokoro through the channels back to the mooring station. While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be encountered in this pristine wilderness area including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra.
Day 2: Maun (Moremi Game Reserve)
You will be collected from the hotel before first light and drive to the South gate to enter Moremi Game Reserve. As the lagoons and channels form a vital section of the Okavango Delta eco-system, sightings of bird and animal populations become more frequent as the day progresses. The game viewing routes chosen on the day by the professional guide may vary especially when high floods are experienced as certain roads may be closed or impassable.
Day 3: Nata
Leaving Maun behind you this morning, make your way towards the town of Nata. Spend most of the day on the journey across the northern reaches of the Makgadikgadi Pans. On arrival at your destination in Nata, you have the opportunity to enjoy an optional afternoon guided game drive to the Makgadikgadi Pans, which forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands.
Day 4: Chobe National Park
Rise early this morning and continue north to your camp on the banks of the Chobe River. This afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. Begin your exploration with an optional game drive in a 4×4 vehicle and your afternoon ends with a leisurely boat cruise which allows an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons.
Day 5: Kasane – Victoria Falls
With the memories of your wildlife encounters firmly etched in your minds, cross the border to Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. The bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline and upon arrival you will have the chance to book these various activities. For the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets to explore and a delicious high tea is on offer at the Victoria Falls Hotel.
Day 6: Victoria Falls
With the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suits your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a scenic flight over the falls below, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls.
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Cost for the camping tour start at: CHF 1010 per person sharing
Cost for the accommodated tour start at: CHF 1310 per person sharing
Included meals:
5 Breakfast
3 Lunches
4 Dinners
Activity package costs: CHF 240
These costs are an indiction of the initial tour cost. The idea is to allow all guests to enjoy these tours and therefore the minimum cost is displayed. Any additional activities will incur a cost.
The Kruger Big 5
Take a walk on the wild side and join this unique Kruger tour. On this 4 day tour you get the best of both worlds by spending some time in an open topped safari vehicle specifically designed for Kruger game viewing. Experience the thrill of being on safari, observing the big 5 as well as zebras, giraffe and rhinos and be inspired by an authentically African atmosphere in the largest game reserve in South Africa. Kruger is larger than some small countries in Europe and is just less than two million hectares of conservation area. There will be early morning game walks, evening game drives and before returning back to Johannesburg, you will visit the Panorama Route and view Gods Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels – all part of the World Heritage Blyde River Canyon. The Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the world. As you follow the winding path, you have to stop and stare in wonder at the astonishing panoramic views below, as the sheer edges of the cliff drop down 800m into the river below.
Day 1: Johannesburg to Kruger National Park
Please note that during the next few days (while we are visiting Kruger National Park), the order of activities could change without prior notice and a degree of flexibility is needed. This is to allow for maximum game viewing opportunities and experiences.
Leaving the city of Johannesburg behind you make your way east through the coalfields of Mpumalanga. Your journey today follows in the footsteps of the old trade-routes to the Lowveld and the Kruger National Park. Arrive at your accommodation for the next three nights and enjoy a lovely sundowner drive.
Day 2: Kruger National Park
Rising early this morning, enter the Kruger National Park to enjoy a full-day of game viewing. The abundance of wildlife presents you with opportunities for excellent sightings, while the Kruger is also home to the famed members of Africa’s Big-5. The game drive offers the excitement of experiencing the park from an open-sided 4×4 vehicle.
Day 3: Kruger National Park – Panorama Route
As is customary when on safari, you will have the opportunity to rise early and enjoy a guided bush walk. Being in the bush on foot offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the smaller details of this great wilderness area. After your walk, exit the park and journey along the scenic Panorama Route where you will visit God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels. Return to camp in the evening to enjoy a lovely local dinner and dance.
Day 4: Kruger National Park to Johannesburg
Enjoy your last drive through the park before setting off to Belvedere Estate. Arrive back in Johannesburg in the late afternoon and all travellers are invited to join us for a traditional meal tonight. This can be booked with your guide on the day before arrival. Many great tales are shared and tonight is for celebrating the many wonders of African travel.
Cost for the camping tour start at: CHF 750 per person sharing
Cost for the accommodated tour start at: CHF 900 per person sharing
Included meals:
3 Breakfast
4 Lunches
3 Dinners
These costs are an indiction of the initial tour cost. The idea is to allow all guests to enjoy these tours and therefore the minimum cost is displayed. Any additional activities will incur a cost.
Masai Mara and Gorillas
Leave the capital of Nairobi and travel to the Masai Mara National Park, world renowned for its endless plains of wild animals and spectacular beauty. The rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara offer ideal game viewing and photographic opportunities. Some of the other animals that could be found here include elephant, black rhino, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Hippo and crocodile abound in the muddy brown waters of the rivers, which traverse this reserve. We take in the spectacle of Lake Nakuru National Park – a great place to spot flamingos. You then cross into Uganda where you can explore Kampala or visit a Chimpanzee sanctuary. After a visit to the Murchison Falls National Park you’ll head up to Budongo Forest, the biggest Mahogany forest found in East Africa and is home to the largest number of chimpanzees throughout Uganda. Meet up with your chimp guide who will take you on our trek through the forest in search of the chimps. Your next stop is at Lake Bunyon where you prepare for the upcoming Gorilla trekking excursion. The mountain gorilla is extremely endangered and visiting them is a great way to ensure their survival as each permit raises money for their conservation.
Day 1: Masai Mara National Reserve
Leave the capital of Nairobi and travel to the Masai Mara, world renowned for its endless plains of wild animals and spectacular beauty. The visit to the Masai Mara is operated in safari type vehicles. For this reason, you are asked to pack a small overnight bag to travel with. You will need your towel, clothes, toiletries and essentials.
Day 2: Masai Mara National Reserve
The rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara offer ideal game viewing and photographic opportunities. Some of the animals that could be found here include elephant, black rhino, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Hippo and crocodile abound in the muddy brown waters of the rivers, which traverse this reserve. Today you will spend the entire day on game drive through the Mara in search of all the animals.
Day 3: Lake Nakuru National Park
This morning bid the Mara farewell before heading to Lake Nakuru National Park where you will enjoy an afternoon game drive through the park. Lake Nakuru is home to large flocks of flamingos and pelicans as well as black & white rhino, leopard, lion and numerous buck. Originally created as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was upgraded to National Park status in 1968.
Day 4: Jinja
This morning you not only cross the border into Uganda, but shortly after setting out this morning cross the Equator on your way to Jinja. Jinja is Uganda’s second largest city and most famous as the point where the Nile (officially the Victoria Nile) flows out of Lake Victoria and begins the 6695 kilometre journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean.
Day 5: Masindi – Murchison Falls National Park
After a quick stop in the city of Kampala, head in the direction of The Murchison Falls National Park. Also referred to as the Kabaraga Falls, Murchison Falls is a waterfall found on the course of the great Nile and is located within the Murchison National Park. The park is recognized as one of the best National Parks in Uganda. After settling into your accommodation in Masindi, your guide will brief you on the activities for the following day.
Day 6: Masindi – Budongo Central Forest Reserve
Budongo Forest is the biggest Mahogany forest found in the whole of East Africa and is home to the largest number of chimpanzees throughout Uganda. It is believed that there are between 600 – 700 chimpanzees in Budongo and this morning you will meet up with your chimp guide who will take you on your trek through the forest in search of the chimps. Also enjoy a boat cruise in the park.
Note: As the Chimp trekking is limited to 12 guests per trek, should there be more than 12 guests on a tour the trekking will be split between the morning and the afternoon. Therefore you may find that you will first do the game drive activity followed by the Chimp trekking or vice versa. Please allow for flexibility.
Day 7: Lake Mburo
Today make your way to Leopard Rest Camp, nestled on the border of Lake Mburo National Park. This National Park consists of Woodland interspersed with rocky ridges and forested gorges. Lake Mburo is one of 13 other lakes, forming a 50km wetland system, linked by a swamp. The Park is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks and is home to 350 bird species as well as zebra, impala, buffalo, leopard, hippo and hyena to name but a few.
Day 8: Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi)
Crossing the Equator once more travel south to the beautiful scenery of Lake Bunyonyi. With eager anticipation prepare for the upcoming Gorilla trekking excursion and tonight receive a briefing on what to expect.
Day 9: Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi)
The mountain gorilla is extremely endangered and while exact numbers vary it is widely assumed that there are only around 650 left. Visiting the gorillas is a great way to support their future on earth as the money spent on permits is used for their protection. An extremely important part of the future conservation of the remaining gorillas rests in the community development work – as local communities change their attitudes towards wildlife and start to protect rather than poach, the future of the mountain gorilla is assured.
As permits granting permission to visit the gorillas are extremely limited we require flexibility in both the tour itinerary and where you actually visit them. The home of the mountain gorillas is completely at odds with man-made borders and so their range encompasses Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Whenever possible we choose to make use of the National Park in Uganda, but this depends on the availability of permits. Should we not obtain permits to visit the mountain gorillas in Uganda then we will inform all passengers beforehand that the tour will travel to Rwanda or DRC.
On your free day in Bunyonyi you will have the opportunity to participate in certain optional activities. You can also go hiking or explore the area on a mountain bike.
Day 10: Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi)
Although there are 2 days allocated to Gorilla Trekking you will only spend one day on the trek. The other days are there to provide a large enough window in which to obtain permits and to allow the entire group to trek if there are more than 6 of you on the tour.
Day 11: Lake Bunyonyi – Kampala
This morning set off on your return journey to Kampala and make a third crossing of the Equator along your way. Tonight your guide will brief you on the activities available in Jinja so that you can plan your day tomorrow. Overnight in Kampala.
Day 12: Jinja
A short distance from Kampala, Jinja offers many exciting activities and your guide will assist you to plan for this day. Most activities are focussed around the waters of the Nile and these include rafting, kayaking and a variety of cruises on Africa’s largest river. While those who may be less inclined to water sports can enjoy horse riding or a quad bike adventure on dry land.
Day 13: Kenya – Eldoret
Returning to Kenya visit Eldoret, the country’s 5th largest city. The Great Rift Valley is still the dominant geographical feature of this region and the altitude at Eldoret is 2100 metres above sea level.
Day 14: Nairobi
Returning to Nairobi this afternoon reflect on many memories that you have gathered together and brace ourselves for a return to the busy streets of Nairobi.
Cost for the camping tour start at: CHF 2340 per person sharing
Cost for the accommodated tour start at: CHF 2660 per person sharing
Gorilla Permit: CHF 630 – 730 per person for 1 hour
These costs are an indiction of the initial tour cost. The idea is to allow all guests to enjoy these tours and therefore the minimum cost is displayed. Any additional activities will incur a cost.
Despite the highest probability there is no guarantee of a sighting of the gorillas. Thanks to the experience of the guides and GPS support, the success rate is over 90%. The maximum size per group is 8 participants.
CM Travels reserves the right to change the prices. Due to currency fluctuations and supplier charge.