Namibia Family Self-Drive Safari

A clean and modern city at the heart of Namibia, Windhoek is the ideal starting and end point for your self-drive family safari.

Pick up supplies, unwind by the pool and experience the cultural diversity of modern Namibia. 

The rich colonial history of Windhoek can be seen in its historic Germanic influences. Dotted around the city are old German castles as well as a neo-baroque cathedral which is worth a visit.

The nearby Daan Viljoen Game Reserve is a great place to spot wildlife and enjoy hiking trails, beginning your safari adventure from the start.

Those interested in getting a taste for Namibia’s varied history must take time to visit The Independence Memorial Museum, showcasing Namibia’s struggle for independence from South Africa, and the Alte Feste Museum which provides a glimpse into Namibia’s colonial past. 

The most populated region of Namibia, the central highlands of Namibia separate the Kalahari from the dunes of the Namib.

For the adventurous, the Gamsberg Nature Reserve offers an opportunity to scale Namibia’s ‘Table Mountain’ or a more leisurely drive through its spectacular pass.

The best time to visit Central Namibia is during the dry season, which falls between May and October. This period offers mild temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife safaris.

One of Namibia’s most spectacular landmarks, the towering red dunes are some of the largest in the world. A photographer’s dream, at sunrise and sunset the dunes are ablaze with reds and oranges contrasted with the pitch blackness of their shaded sides. 

A salt and clay plan, set within the vast expanse Namib Desert, Sossusvlei actually refers to the name of one pan but is often used to reference the wider area in which other pans such as Deadvlei, and the famous dunes of Dune 45 and Big Daddy are located. 

In contrast to the sparsely vegetated Sossusvlei dunes, in the Deadvlei pan jagged branches from lifeless camel-thorn trees rise from the desert floor, creating a striking silhouette against the rich colour of the sand. 

The never-ending sea of dunes that surrounds the desolate pans is an awe-inspiring sight and you’ll soon see why Sossusvlei is the most visited place in the Namib Desert.

Nestled along the picturesque Atlantic coast of Namibia, Swakopmund is a charming seaside town that beckons with its unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and German colonial history. 

The town’s defining feature is its coastal setting, with the rolling dunes of the Namib Desert on one side and the vast expanse of the South Atlantic Ocean on the other. This juxtaposition creates a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities like sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and quad biking provide thrilling adventures amidst the iconic dunes of the Namib Desert.

Swakopmund’s Germanic roots are made evident by its colonial architecture, quaint coffee shops, bakeries, and beer gardens, allowing visitors to savour traditional German cuisine and beverages.

And as a gateway to the seal-laden Sandwich Bay and the otherworldly Moon Valley, carved by the Swakop River, Swakopmund is the ideal base from which to explore Namibia’s most diverse natural landscapes.

Characterised by rocky escarpments, granite kopjes and burning red mountains, the Damaraland is a remote and sparsely populated region. With tourists few and far between, it is the perfect destination for families wanting to get off the beaten track.

Named for the Damara ethnic group which hail from this region, the Damaraland offers a unique mix of desert-adapted wildlife – sustained by ancient watercourses snaking through the landscape – and phenomenal rock art. 

Home to a variety of wildlife, including critically endangered black rhinos, desert-adapted lions and elephants, as well as the full range of Namibia specialities such as gemsbok, zebra, giraffe and spotted hyena 

The renowned ancient San bushmen artworks are a sight to behold and can be witnessed at various sites such as the Brandberg Mountain, Twyfelfontein and Spitzkoppe. The rock art is believed to date back 6,000 years, and it provides valuable insights into many aspects of the lives of indigenous hunter-gatherers in this area.

Etosha National Park, a renowned park and one of Africa’s largest, spans over 22,000 square kilometres of semi-arid savannah, salt pans, and acacia woodlands. The unique ecosystem supports a remarkable array of flora and fauna.

Etosha’s defining feature is the immense Etosha Pan, a vast salt flat visible from space, which serves as the park’s heart. Waterholes around the pan draw an astonishing diversity of wildlife, from large herds of  elephants wallowing in the water, to lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, and countless others all enjoying the natural environment. 

The park’s well-maintained network of roads and water holes allow for families to self-drive through the park, though the many comfortable lodges and campsites in the park offer organised excursions with a guide. 

Etosha’s accessibility, incredible biodiversity, and dramatic landscapes make it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking an authentic African safari experience. 

Situated east of Etosha, bordering Fisher’s Pan, Onguma Game Reserve is one of Namibia’s best-kept secrets.

Spanning over 34,000 hectares of protected land, the reserve is home to a variety of wildlife including plains game, black rhino, kudu, giraffe, zebra, lion, cheetah, leopard and more than 300 bird species.

The neighbouring Etosha National Park is also one of Namibia’s most renowned wildlife spots. Spanning over over 22,000 square kilometres of semi-arid savannah, salt pans, and acacia woodlands. The unique ecosystem supports a remarkable array of flora and fauna.

Located halfway between Etosha National Park and Windhoek lies the magnificent Okonjima Nature Reserve.

The 22,000 hectare reserve is renowned for its conservation efforts, particularly the AfriCat foundation which carves out a safe haven for leopards and cheetahs within commercial farming land.

Guests can join experienced guides on tracking safaris, and learn about the history of the area. Before the foundation of AfriCat in the 1990s, the area used to see countless leopards and cheetahs shot by farmers to protect their large cattle herds. Now guests can enjoy the wildlife haven that has been created.

Located on a quiet street in Windhoek’s oldest suburb, Klein, The Elegant Guesthouse offers an elegant boutique experience with authentic Namibian charm. 

The chic and understated rooms offer all of the creature comforts, including air-con, TV and glass doors onto the communal gardens, ideal for a pre or post flight pamper. Families can retreat to the tranquil drought-resistant gardens, take a dip in the sizable pool and gather around the guesthouse’s boma for an evening debrief.

Located in the foothills of the little known Gamsberg Mountains in Central Namibia, Corona Guest Farm is an understated pitstop on your journey to the desert. 

The farm dates back to the turn of the last century, when German colonial traders passed by on their long journey from the Namibian hinterland to Windhoek. Guests can even walk in their footsteps along the old ox-wagon trails on nearby Rooi Huis. 

The heritage of the farm is reflected in its characterful and unpretentious accommodation. Three spacious family rooms are perfect for those with younger children, whilst the camp’s shaded pool and panoramic terrace offers an ideal spot for adults and children alike to enjoy some afternoon downtime. 

The central highlands of the Khomas region offer a huge variety of activities for all interests. Gamsberg Mountain – known as Namibia’s ‘Tabletop Mountain’ due to its shape – is a tough but rewarding climb. But standing at nearly 2,500m, it isn’t suitable for everyone. If you still want to explore the area, opt for a scenic drive along the Gamsberg pass, the highest and longest in Namibia, spotting game as you go. Or hike one of the many trails, discovering the rich range of flora and fauna indigenous to the area.

Desert Homestead Lodge is a simple and authentic lodge, and located on the private Namib Tsaris Nature Reserve. 

Its convenient situation near the world-renowned Namib-Naukluft National Park, means this charming lodge is a perfect base for families seeking an authentic Sossusvlei adventure.

A full day game-drive to see the rolling dunes of Sossusvlei are the main draw here, but camp offers no shortage of other activities to keep you occupied for a few days. Enjoy a sundowner tipple at a scenic spot on the reserve, specially chosen by your guide, or take an early morning horse ride in the crisp desert air. 

After a busy day of activities you can return to your spacious thatched chalet, each with its own ensuite and deck, or take a dip in one of the camp’s two pools. A family-friendly camp, there are 7 chalets which include a ‘sleeper window’ for little ones and there is a large family chalet which sleeps four. 

For families exploring the wonders of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, Cornerstone Guesthouse offers a serene oasis within an easy stroll of both the seafront and the vibrant town centre. 

Situated in Swakopmund’s historic old town, this charming guesthouse is just steps away from fascinating attractions such as The Marine Museum and The Old Brewery.

The Cornerstone Guesthouse embodies the warmth and intimacy of a family-run B&B, while also providing the modern amenities of a luxury hotel. With its cosy and inviting ambiance, it’s the ideal haven for families to unwind after a day of adventure. Families will love the quintessential Namibian experience on offer here. 

Camp Kipwe is a luxury lodge creatively built into the large granite boulders of the Damaraland, providing a unique and memorable experience for families. 

The camp offers nine bungalows and one Kipwe suite, with two new luxury suites perched on top of a kopje, providing spectacular views of the Aba Huab Valley. The luxury suites feature large air-conditioned bedrooms and lounges that spill out onto an extensive deck, complete with a heated splash pool and sala.

The camp offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families. Nature drives in search of desert-adapted elephants and guided walks reveal how the harsh, dry desert environment is alive with desert-adapted flora and fauna. 

The real draw at Kipwe are excursions to the nearby Twyfelfontein rock engravings, Namibia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the fascinating geological formations of Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes. Departing in the mid-afternoon, families can escape the afternoon heat whilst discovering the unique history of the Damara people. 

Mushara Bush Camp offers an affordable and unique experience for both independent travelers and families wanting to explore Etosha National Park. 

The camp has a rustic, down-to-earth ambiance and can accommodate 32 guests and 8 children in custom-made tent-like structures. The main Bush Camp House exudes a true bush camp feel, with a thatched roof and evening campfires for sharing wildlife stories from the day. All meals are served on the spacious thatched verandah with the bush a mere step away. 

The camp features 16 en-suite tents made of canvas, wood, and local limestone, each their own private veranda. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow for optimal game viewing from the comfort of your bed. Four of the tents also have sleeper couches for two children. 

Mushara Bush Camp offers a variety of activities for all ages. Children can enjoy books, games, toys, and a dedicated play area. The outside play park includes a jungle gym, an old tractor, a sandbox, and a kiddie pool.

Onguma Bush Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in the Onguma Private Reserve near Etosha National Park. 

The lodge offers 18 comfortable suites, each with indoor and outdoor showers, fireplaces, and patios. Family loft rooms also ensure the kids will have a great safari experience. The lounge and dining areas overlook the stunning Onkulu waterhole that affords great opportunities to see nature at play around the clock.                     

In addition to luxurious accommodation, Onguma Bush Lodge offers a range of activities that cater to all interests. One of the most unique experiences offered by the lodge is the Dream Cruiser, which is a custom-built Land Cruiser featuring a full bathroom on the lower deck and a bedroom with lounge area on the upper deck. Enjoy an al fresco picnic-style dining under the starry Namibian night sky and experience the old-world safari magic. 

Located in the pristine wilderness of the Okonjima Nature Reserve, Okonjima Plains Camp stands out as an exceptional destination for family safaris. 

Rooted in the history of the Hanssen family’s cattle-farming legacy, the camp’s main barn has been repurposed as a stylish living and dining area. Featuring leather materials and earthy tones, the barn opens out onto a veranda overlooking a bustling watering hole. The camp’s spacious View and Classic Rooms, also all offer their own veranda with panoramic bush views. 

The Okonjima Nature Reserve is the home of a thriving population of big cats as well as the Africat Foundation, a registered non-profit organisation focused on conserving Namibia’s biggest carnivores. Game drives through the reserve give families the opportunity to take part in real-life data collection, tracking elusive leopards, rhinos and brown hyena. 

Or gain a more intimate perspective of Namibia’s wildlife on a guided bush walk, spotting the reserve’s many bird species and rich flora and fauna. Finally, retreat back to camp for a chilled afternoon by the pool or game-spotting at the watering hole. 

Experience the real face of modern Namibia, with its complex colonial past and authentic African heritage colliding in Windhoek.

Renowned for its family-friendliness, people of all ages can enjoy visits to Windhoek’s local communities, museums, and vibrant markets, providing valuable insights into Namibia’s history and varied culture.

Hiking is the best way to experience this unique landscape. Young families can enjoyed a guided walk, discovering the rich range of flora and fauna indigenous to the area. The more experienced (and daring!) hikers can instead take on the challenge of the majestic Gamsberg Mountain, known as Namibia’s ‘Tabletop Mountain’ due to its shape. 

A spectacular hot air balloon safari is the best way to really appreciate the vastness of this mesmerising desert landscape.

Departing in the brisk early morning you will watch dunes burn gold and orange as the sun peeps over the horizon. Make sure you cast your eyes downwards so you can spot aardvarks and zebras slowly waking up for the day. Your experience will be topped off by a luxurious champagne breakfast, setting you up for the quintessential day in the desert.

Explore the Skeleton Coast’s inhospitable coastline with a luxurious catamaran tour.

You will spot some of the Atlantic Coast’s most spectacular wildlife – including dolphins, whales, turtles, seals and the Mola Mola (sunfish). With sparkling wine and a supply of fresh oysters, your adventure will have the essential luxurious touch.

Twyfelfontein is renowned for its collection of ancient rock art created by its nomadic residents.

Marvel at the awe-inspiring Brandberg Mountain – the highest peak in Namibia – while taking a guided tour to the infamous ‘White Lady’ rock painting deep in the mountain.

For a more detailed insight into ancient bushman culture, visit the 2,500 ancient San rock paintings at Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Witness the majesty of the Big Five in Namibia’s premier wildlife destination.

The park’s well-maintained network of roads allow for intrepid travellers to self-drive through the park, discovering the Etosha’s famed watering holes. 

The park’s many comfortable lodges and campsites, including Mushara, also offer organised excursions with a guide, maximising your chances of spying the hard to spot leopard and rhino. 

Located on the Oguma Private Reserve, wildlife is all around with more than 300 bird species, and even 4 of the Big 5. Lions, hyenas and cheetahs are frequently seen and there is a healthy black rhino population. The more adventurous can take a guided walking safari to try and get up close and personal with the reserve’s wildlife. 

Nearby Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s most stable and accessible parks, covering an area of 22 750km². Home to numerous wildlife species such as elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, rhinos a full-day game drive is something not to be missed. 

Renowned as one of the best places on earth to see leopards, the Okonjima Nature Reserve is a must-see.

Over the years, AfriCat has rescued and released over 1,080 large carnivores into the reserve. The local guides have an intimate knowledge of both the cats and the environment so your chances of spotting some of the cars are high.

Game drives through the reserve give families the opportunity to take part in real-life data collection, tracking elusive leopards, rhinos and brown hyena.