Breathtaking Damaraland & the Dramatic Namibian Coast
This extraordinary safari reveals the essence of Namibia – its dramatic contrasts, ancient geology and resilient wildlife – through a seamless, privately guided journey. From Windhoek you’ll travel across the Khomas Hochland and down into the Namib Desert, where you stay inside the park at Dead Valley Lodge for exclusive access to the world’s highest dunes. Climb Sossusvlei’s ochre slopes, explore the haunting beauty of Deadvlei and feel the solitude of this primeval landscape beneath a canopy of stars.
Continue north to Swakopmund, the country’s charming coastal town framed by desert and sea. Here, enjoy kayaking among playful seals and dolphins, or cruise the cool Atlantic waters past flamingos and pelicans. Inland, the scenery shifts once again as you enter the sculpted valleys of Damaraland, a land of red rock and ancient San engravings. At Camp Kipwe you’ll track desert-adapted elephants through dry riverbeds, visit the UNESCO-listed Twyfelfontein rock art site, and absorb the wilderness stillness that defines this region.
Your journey concludes at Safari House, a private farmhouse on the Etosha Heights Private Reserve, where sweeping savannahs host lion, rhino and herds of antelope. Morning and afternoon game drives reveal Etosha’s famous wildlife, while evenings are spent sharing stories on the veranda as elephants gather at the nearby waterhole. Guided throughout by Ultimate Safaris’ expert naturalist, this adventure offers comfort, connection and a profound sense of discovery in Namibia’s most evocative landscapes.
You will love
- Early dune access at Sossusvlei
- Sea kayaking with seals & dolphins
- Tracking desert-adapted elephants
- Ancient rock art at Twyfelfontein
- Private farmhouse stay at Etosha Heights
- Expert guidance throughout Namibia
9 UNFORGETTABLE DAYS
DAY 1 | ARRIVE IN SOSSUSVLEI | 2 NIGHTS – DEAD VALLEY LODGE
Depart Windhoek with your Ultimate Safaris naturalist guide, travelling southwest through the scenic Khomas Hochland before descending the Great Escarpment into the Namib Desert. A picnic lunch is enjoyed en route before arriving at Dead Valley Lodge in the mid-afternoon, perfectly located within the park for early access to Sossusvlei. Settle into your elegant desert chalet with panoramic views across the dunes and rugged mountains.
If time allows, visit Sesriem Canyon or climb Elim Dune for your first sunset in the desert. As twilight settles, dine beneath a vast night sky alive with stars, surrounded by the silence and stillness that makes Namibia so intoxicating.
DAY 2 | SOSSUSVLEI & DEADVLEI EXPLORATIONS
Rise before dawn to witness the Namib Desert at its most spectacular. Entering the park gates before sunrise, you’ll explore the famous dunes of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, where the early light transforms the sands into a canvas of amber and gold. Learn from your guide about the formation of this desert and the flora and fauna that thrive in its arid extremes.
Climb one of the world’s tallest free-standing dunes, wander across Deadvlei’s bleached clay pan, and picnic beneath a camel thorn tree. Return to your lodge for a leisurely lunch and a restful afternoon, cooling off in the pool or simply soaking in the endless desert views.
DAY 3 | SOSSUSVLEI TO SWAKOPMUND | 2 NIGHTS – THE DELIGHT SWAKOPMUND
Optional this morning is a breathtaking hot-air balloon flight over the Namib Desert, floating silently above oceans of sand before toasting your landing with champagne. Afterwards, journey northwest through the stark beauty of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, crossing the Gaub and Kuiseb canyons to reach the Atlantic coast at Walvis Bay.
Continue north to Swakopmund, where colonial architecture meets sea breezes. Check in at The Delight Swakopmund, a contemporary and inviting base within walking distance of the waterfront. This evening, dine on freshly caught seafood at The Tug restaurant as the sun dips below the Atlantic horizon.
DAY 4 | SWAKOPMUND
After breakfast, head south along the coast to Walvis Bay for a morning of marine adventure. Paddle alongside playful seals and dolphins on a guided kayaking excursion to Pelican Point, or opt for a catamaran cruise to enjoy oysters and sparkling wine as you glide among pelicans and cormorants.
Return to Swakopmund for an afternoon at leisure to explore cafés, craft markets and museums, or simply wander along the windswept beach. The cool coastal climate offers a refreshing contrast to the desert heat, and dinner this evening can be enjoyed at one of Swakopmund’s many excellent local restaurants.
DAY 5 | SWAKOPMUND TO DAMARALAND | 2 NIGHTS – CAMP KIPWE
Heading north, you’ll journey through the vast landscapes of Damaraland, characterised by rugged mountains and open plains. Arriving at Camp Kipwe, you’ll settle into your unique accommodation, harmoniously integrated into the surrounding boulders. An afternoon visit to the Twyfelfontein rock engravings offers insight into ancient San culture.
DAY 6 | DESERT-ADAPTED WILDLIFE TRACKING
Awake to the quiet dawn of Damaraland and set out on an exhilarating four-wheel drive along the Huab River valley in search of desert-adapted elephants. This remarkable population survives in one of the driest habitats on earth, roaming the ephemeral river systems alongside giraffe, oryx and springbok.
Enjoy a picnic beneath an ancient ana tree or return to camp for lunch. Later, visit the Burnt Mountain and Organ Pipes formations, or learn about local Damara culture at the Living Museum. Evenings are for reflection and serenity, watching the sun’s last light sweep across the boulder-strewn hills.
DAY 7 | ETOSHA HEIGHTS | 2 NIGHTS – SAFARI HOUSE
After breakfast, journey east to Etosha National Park, entering through the southern Andersson’s Gate. Enjoy a picnic lunch and stop at waterholes for your first sightings of elephant, zebra and antelope. Continue onward to Etosha Heights Private Reserve, adjoining the park’s southwestern border, where your exclusive Safari House awaits.
This beautifully restored farmhouse offers privacy and comfort, with a private chef, guide and vehicle. Spend the evening relaxing on the veranda overlooking the waterhole, drink in hand, as wildlife gathers and the day fades into a tranquil Namibian night.
DAY 8 | GAME DRIVES IN ETOSHA
Spend the day exploring Etosha Heights, one of Namibia’s largest private reserves. Morning and afternoon game drives with your lodge ranger offer superb opportunities to encounter lion, cheetah, rhino and plains game across 60,000 hectares of pristine wilderness.
Between drives, cool off in the pool or watch wildlife from the hide. As night falls, share stories around the fire or enjoy a traditional braai beneath an endless canopy of stars. Every moment here reflects the rhythm of the bush – peaceful, immersive and unforgettable.
DAY 9 | ETOSHA TO WINDHOEK
After breakfast, begin your journey south via Outjo, Otjiwarongo and Okahandja, with a lunch stop en route. Arrive in Windhoek by mid-afternoon, where your safari concludes. Transfers to the airport or a final night in the capital can be arranged as required – a fitting end to a journey through Namibia’s most captivating landscapes.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
A selection of the finest safari camps
Camp Kipwe – Damaraland, Namibia
Camp Kipwe offers a distinctive and intimate stay in Namibia’s rugged Damaraland region. Designed to blend seamlessly with the ochre boulders surrounding it, this boutique eco-camp features dome-shaped suites with outdoor showers and panoramic desert views. Guests can explore the dramatic landscapes, encounter desert-adapted elephants, and unwind in a setting that celebrates simplicity, nature, and solitude. Read More
Safari House – Etosha National Park
Safari House offers a stylish, private safari retreat within the 60,000-hectare Etosha Heights Private Reserve in Namibia. Perfect for families or small groups, this sole-use house accommodates up to six guests in three en suite bedrooms. Featuring a private chef, dedicated guide, and fully equipped game-drive vehicle, the experience is tailored entirely to your pace. The house itself blends contemporary comfort with classic safari charm, featuring a spacious lounge, large verandah, and a swimming pool overlooking a floodlit waterhole where wildlife gathers day and night.Read More
NEED TO KNOW
9 NIGHTS / 10 DAYS
9 NIGHTS / 10 DAYS
Please enquire for pricing
Please enquire for pricing
START: Windhoek | Finish: Windhoek
Departure Dates – 2025*
- November 4th – November 12th
- November 18th – November 26th
- December 9th – December 17th
- December 23rd – December 31st
Departure Dates – 2026*
- Please enquire for 2026 departure dates
* PLEASE NOTE: All dates are subject to availability & departure may not be guaranteed pending booking numbers. Please contact us for current availability on all itineraries.
Inclusions
- Accommodation throughout the itinerary
- All meals & activities as specified
- Park entrance & conservation fees
- Services of a professional naturalist guide
- Road transport in air-conditioned safari vehicle
Exclusions
- International, regional & local flights to Namibia and airport taxes
- Return airport transfers from Windhoek Intl Airport – Windhoek – Windhoek Intl Airport & accommodation in Windhoek
- Any entrance fees and excursions not included in the above itinerary such as scenic flights
- Laundry except limited complementary service
- Gratuities
- Extra activities, visas, insurance, bank charges, Items of a personal nature
Set departures are available – please enquire for dates.
Private departures also available – and highly recommended for families or small groups!
Operates year round. Peak season: July to October.
Miminimum 2 / maximum 7 guests on safari (except on tailormade private departures when exceptions may be possible)
Minimum age: 12 years on scheduled departures
Single supplement apply
Flights and insurance on request
Terms and conditions apply – please request a copy of our booking form for all details.
Price is subject to change due to currency fluctuation and unforeseen changes beyond our control
Please contact us for pricing, dates and a full itinerary
Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip. The transfers went smoothly, the accommodation was excellent, the drivers were amazing as they manoeuvred through the traffic and every tour guide had a great deal of knowledge and information. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The contrast of poverty and riches of the country was striking, from the beggars in the street and struggles of the poor to the spectacular, impressive sights of the forts and monuments. There were so many highlights. A moment in time that will never happen again.
Jenny KiddExellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth MackintoshWe wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!
Mark TaylorJulia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford familyWe are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad BalanceThe trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree familyClassic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain JonesWe loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi CunninghamAn amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert TaylorThank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul CozziVery knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert HappellEverything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim BradleyYou can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham FamilyThe trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma JeffcoatAbsolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie AdamsClassic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros WheelerTheir experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip StevensIf you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph HarrisonClassic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison GuthrieClassic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley YatesThe Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette WhileyIt certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean MifsudWould do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan TribeAn absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williams
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