Hiker on Dune 45 in Sossusvlei, Namibia.
4.8

The Ultimate Adventure Through Wild Namibia

  • Namibia
  • 10 nights

One of the continent's greatest adventures: sand dunes, deserts, salt pans and national parks jam-packed with Africa's greatest wildlife

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified Guides

    All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides and wildlife rangers

  • Camping & Lodges

    2 nights in lodges, 7 nights camping, 1 night in glass-fronted rooms at a desert camp

  • Meals

    All your breakfasts, 4 lunches and 5 dinners

  • Transfers

    Group airport transfers and everything in between, plus a truck to carry all your overnight kit

  • Equipment & Permits

    Tents and sleeping mats for the desert camping; all permits and entry fees

  • Small Like-minded Groups

    Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From …
excluding flights

What's it like?

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Highlights

  • Climb the world's highest dunes in Sossusvlei, go sandboarding on the Atlantic Coast and hike otherworldly Spitzkoppe

  • Enjoy the best road trips on the planet between remarkable campsites, where you’ll sip sundowners, tuck into braai dinners and stargaze in the middle of nowhere

  • Roam around Etosha National Park spotting elephants, giraffes, lions and countless more, spending memorable evenings beside a waterhole

  • Want to explore more of southern Africa? Our Desert to Delta Journey takes you through Namibia and across Botswana

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Welcome to Namibia!

    Lodge
    Twin share
    Show Day 1 detail

    Touch down at Windhoek Airport, meet your host and transfer to your hotel in central Windhoek. Depending on your arrival time, you may have a chance to explore the local area – or if you'd rather relax, the hotel has its own pool. Join your group and guide later for dinner and to chat through the epic adventure ahead.

    Day 2

    Windhoek to Naukluft

    Driving
    3.5hrs · 250km
    Hiking
    2hrs · 5km · 110m up · 110m down
    Campsite
    Twin tent
    All meals included
    Show Day 2 detail

    Hop into a desert truck heading for the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Get your first glimpses of Namibia's famous expansive desert landscapes as you head for the southwest part of Naukluft in the granite hills. Stop for a warm-up hike at Waterkloof to reach an inviting wild swim spot, where you can cool off from the midday heat. Arriving at your desert camp after lunch, settle in before heading out for a sunset hike to a nearby dune, where you can overlook the expanse of the desert and take in the dreamy hues of this part of the world. Tonight, enjoy a campfire dinner – your first of many! – and some desert stargazing.

    Day 3

    Hiking on the Olive Trail

    Hiking
    5hrs · 12km · 500m up · 250m down
    Campsite
    Twin tent
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 3 detail

    Tackle a spectacular day hike today on the Olive Trail. Meandering through a diverse range of landscapes and habitats, you'll walk from riverbank to canyon, plateau to rocky ridge. Hike alongside the Naukluft River, past a series of pools that make for a quick dip (depending on the season). The trail climbs steeply to a 1910m ridge, the highest point on the hike, giving you incredible desert views. More small pools and an impressive waterfall dot the path to the finish line. There is an 8-10 metre fixed-chain section to traverse on this hike; your guide will show you the way, navigating large boulders on your descent into the valley. Finish up an epic day with a drive through stunning mountain scenery to your next camp at Sesriem, surrounded by enormous red sand dunes and with an inviting pool to cool off in. The campsite here is located just within the National Park – this means you can set off first thing in the morning to head for the dunes, before the main gates open to other tourists an hour later.

    Day 4

    The dunes of Sossusvlei

    Hiking
    3hrs · 5km · 150m up · 150m down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Start early today with a pre-dawn ride in the desert truck to the Sossusvlei area of the National Park. Staying overnight inside the park gates gives you a head start, allowing you to reach the dunes before sunrise. Hike up the iconic Dune 45 and watch as the sun breaks over the desert valley, casting an otherworldly canvas of colours and shadows from the ridge. Walk, run or roll back down the towering wall of sand, then tuck into breakfast and coffee at the foot of the dunes. Afterwards, delve deeper into the park to explore the acacia trees and ever-shifting shapes of Hiddenvlei. All day, it’ll feel like you’re wandering through a film set – Mad Max: Fury Road was filmed here, and the landscapes wouldn’t look out of place in Star Wars. An iconic site awaits after a 4x4 journey (around £9, payable locally) along the sand road deeper into the National Park as you head to Deadvlei, home to scores of dead trees mummified by the arid desert conditions. After lunch, take a short drive to your next overnight stop – this dreamily situated spot offers a break from camping, as you'll be staying in ensuite glass-fronted rooms with a front row seat to another epic sunset.

    Day 5

    Namib Desert road trip to Swakopmund

    Driving
    5hrs · 260km
    Lodge
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Any trip around Namibia involves some epic drives – there are big distances to cover between the various highlights – but the landscape is fascinating and you'll be able to spot ostrich, warthog and oryx just off the road. Today's journey takes you through the heart of the Namib Desert (regarded by many scientists as the oldest in the world), towards the coastal city of Swakopmund. En route, you'll have a chance to stretch your legs and soak up being on the Tropic of Capricorn, with obligatory photo opportunity. After a few hours driving through shifting sandscapes, you'll eventually see the glimmer of the Atlantic Ocean in the distance. Enjoy lunch and a cool sea breeze while watching flamingos at Walvis Bay Lagoon, before the final drive up the coast to Swakopmund, a popular town with a German flavour. Arriving in the afternoon, you can explore and grab a cold beer overlooking the Atlantic. Alternatively, treat yourself to an optional sunset desert flight over the dunes (payable locally, subject to weather conditions).

    Day 6

    Sandboard the dunes and on to Spitzkoppe

    Sandboarding
    2hrs
    Hiking
    1hr · 3km · 50m up · 50m down
    Driving
    2.5hrs · 170km
    Campsite
    Twin tent
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 6 detail

    A unique activity lies in store on the giant, coastal sand dunes near Swakopmund. You'll meet up with a local outfit who specialise in sandboarding down these vast mountains of sand. Get kitted out with safety gear and a sandboard, then start on some small dunes to get the knack of it – you'll be doing the Namibian classic lie-down boarding, on your belly and head first. The adrenaline rush is massive, and the views as you launch over the crest of the dunes are incredible. You'll build up to some of the bigger dunes, which you can whizz down at increasing speeds, carving down the massive sand slopes surrounded by surreal desert beauty. After your sandboarding antics, bid Namibia's coast farewell and head inland to the imposing Spitzkoppe mountains. The iconic shapes of the two massifs rise out of the flat desert plains as you get closer. You'll settle into a lovely camp right at the foot of the mountains, with a welcome pool for cooling off in while you are in this hot part of the country. Set off for a short hike later this afternoon to stretch your legs before dinner: Spitzkoppe is a truly spectacular spot for sunset and stargazing.

    Day 7

    Hike and stargaze at 'Africa's Matterhorn'

    Hiking
    3-4hrs · 8km · 300m up · 300m down
    Campsite
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 7 detail

    Wake up to the silence of the Namibian desert as the sun rises over the towering granite peaks. After a hearty campfire breakfast, lace up your boots and set out on a guided hike through the surreal landscape of massive boulders, ancient rock formations and wide, ochre-hued vistas. Explore this ancient mountain wilderness, learning of the San people who once lived here and having chances to spot ancient rock art hidden among the caves and overhangs. You’ll scramble up to natural view points and marvel at the scale and solitude of the surroundings – Namibia at its most raw and spectacular. In the late afternoon, head to one of Spitzkoppe’s most famous landmarks – the Stone Arch, a natural granite bridge carved by time and the elements. As the sun dips below the horizon, grab a sundowner ahead of another braai feast at camp. Spitzkoppe is one of the best places in the world for stargazing – with no light pollution for miles around, the sky explodes into a dome of stars, so you can stargaze to your heart's content this evening.

    Day 8

    Get a first taste of Etosha

    Driving
    5-6hrs · 390km
    Campsite
    Twin tent
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 8 detail

    Soak up your memorable camping spot in Spitzkoppe one last time, before leaving the peaks and hitting the road north towards one of Africa's greatest national parks. You are heading for Etosha – truly one of the planet's most incredible wildlife-watching arenas. You'll enter the park gates in the late afternoon and drive towards your first camp at Okakuejo. The drive to the camp is a safari in itself, as you are well inside the park with chances to spot myriad animals already. Etosha is all about waterholes, with hundreds of them dotted all over this vast area where animals congregate to drink, particularly in the dry season (from April to October). Staying at Okakuejo is a treat as it has a waterhole right on the edge of the camp, where you can head after dinner to watch the nocturnal parade of Etosha's main characters: elephants, rhinoceros, lions, leopards, hyenas, jackals and more. Staying up late at a waterhole in Etosha as the lingering twilight turns to stars, soaking up the calm silence of the African bush and waiting with bated breath for the next visitor is one of the true highlights of this trip.

    Day 9

    Time for a classic African safari

    Wildlife Watching
    6-7hrs
    Campsite
    Twin tent
    All meals included
    Show Day 9 detail

    Settle into your overlanding truck for a classic day of safari through Etosha National Park. You'll be taken to various spots by your trained wildlife guides, giving you the best chances of seeing Namibia's most famous wild residents. Etosha is renowned for its density of wildlife; the concentrations of animals here are huge compared to other national parks, and in the dry season you'll often have amazing spectacles at the waterholes, with several species at once congregating to drink. Back at camp this evening, tuck into a braai and sip on sundowners before heading to the waterhole for as long as you can stay awake, after another epic day.

    The option to go on a game drive in an open 4x4 Jeep with a park ranger is also available for those wanting to explore the area further. For more information, please see our FAQs below.

    Day 10

    Etosha and the Waterberg Plateau

    Hiking
    1.5hrs · 3km · 250m up · 250m down
    Campsite
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 10 detail

    Enjoy your morning in Etosha, before heading further south to Waterberg National Park, where a prominent red sandstone massif rises 300m above the Kalahari plains with spectacular views. Due to its inaccessibility, the plateau was declared a nature reserve in 1972 and used to protect several endangered species from predators and poachers. Today, Waterberg is a haven for a huge variety of bird species and flora in particular, with its own unique climate providing a garden-like environment for wildlife to thrive in. Waterberg is also home to the second-largest viable population of rhinos in the world (after Kruger National Park). After lunch, hike up to the plateau, keeping your eyes peeled for banded mongoose, dassies, dik diks, warthogs and more, as you quietly observe the intimate lives of wild animals from a careful distance. There is also the option to join a game drive within the park (around £30-40/N$750-950 per person, payable locally), where you might glimpse white rhino, buffalo, sable and other species that call this protected reserve home.

  11. Day 11

    Bushwalk and back to Windhoek

    Hiking
    1-1.5hrs · 4km · 50m up · 50m down
    Driving
    4-5hrs · 350km
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 11 detail

    Time for one last hike this morning as you head out to spot some more wildlife on foot and enjoy the stunning scenery. After your bushwalk, you'll bid farewell to Waterberg as you drive back to Windhoek Airport in time for your onward flight. Alternatively, your host can drop you at Arebusch Lodge if you are staying on longer in Namibia.

Getting There

Nearest airport
Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH)
Pick up
Windhoek International Airport, Namibia (WDH)
10:00 on Day 1
Drop off
Windhoek International Airport, Namibia (WDH)
16:00 on Day 11

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

Arrival and departure transfers are only included if you use the group arrival transfer on Day 1 and departure transfer on the evening of Day 11. On Day 1, the included group airport transfer is at 10:00, as there are several overnight flights arriving into Windhoek Airport in the morning. If required, private transfers to the accommodation in Windhoek can be booked for those arriving at earlier or later times for an additional cost, please see 'Optional Extras' for more details. Transfers from Windhoek Airport to your first hotel take approximately one hour. On Day 11, there is an included group transfer which will drop you at Windhoek Airport around 16:00, for all flights departing after 18:00. Please do not book a flight earlier than this, as the trip includes a long drive on the final day and a private transfer is expensive and difficult to arrange.

If you are flying home the next day, an extra night's accommodation and private airport transfer can be arranged for you (at additional cost) in line with your return flight. Please request this with your host after booking.

Travel options

There are regular flights to Namibia from major airports across the UK, Europe and North America. In Europe, these generally transit through Frankfurt and Munich to pick up the direct flights to Windhoek. Alternatively, depending on your departure point, you may fly direct to Cape Town or Johannesburg in South Africa or Addis Ababa in Ethiopia to connect to direct flights to Windhoek from those African hubs.

What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Guided hike in the Namib-Naukluft National Park
  • Guided hike on the Olive Trail
  • Guided sunrise hike up the Sossusvlei dunes, and on to Hiddenvlei
  • Road trip through the Namib Desert, with stops en route
  • Guided hike in the Spitzkoppe Mountains
  • Guided hike around Grosse Spitzkoppe
  • Wildlife watching at a waterhole in Etosha National Park
  • Safari game drive in Etosha National Park
  • Guided hike to the Waterberg Plateau
  • Bushwalk in the Waterberg National Park

  • Expert, local, English-speaking guides and wildlife rangers

  • 2 nights in hotels in Windhoek and Swakopmund
  • 1 night in glass-fronted rooms at a desert camp
  • 7 nights camping in epic wilderness areas in Naukluft, Sesriem, Spitzkoppe, Etosha and Waterberg

  • 10 breakfasts
  • 4 lunches
  • 5 BBQ-style dinners (braai)

  • Group arrival transfer from Windhoek Airport on Day 1
  • Group departure transfer to Windhoek Airport on Day 11
  • All transfers during the trip in an overland expedition truck

  • Tents and sleeping mats for the desert camping

  • All permits and park entry fees

  • A desert truck to carry all your overnight kit

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  • 205806482

    Windhoek

    Stay

    Windhoek

    You'll stay in a twin room at the Arebbusch Travel Lodge. It's set in large grounds by the dry Arebbusch River with a huge pool outside, making it the perfect spot to relax on arrival after your journey to Namibia.

  • Milky way above the camp at Sesriem, Namibia.

    Campsites across Namibia

    Stay

    Campsites across Namibia

    You’ll stay in twin-share tents at a series of desert camping spots in Naukluft, Sesriem, Spitzkoppe and Waterberg. These make for truly memorable experiences, camping out in the wilderness beneath some of the starriest skies in the world. At Sesriem, you are surrounded by the highest sand dunes on the planet; while the Spitzkoppe Mountain Camp (where you'll spend two nights) is set amongst a lunar landscape and stunning mountainous backdrop. All of the campsites have showers and toilet facilities, and many have pools to cool off in, including those at Sesriem and Spitzkoppe. All the sites have a braai pit where you can make a campfire to settle around for the evening. Please be aware that this is a participatory camping trip, so you'll need to muck in with putting up and breaking down camp throughout the trip. It's all part of the adventure!

  • Sossus on Foot from the air in the desert of Namibia.

    Sossus on Foot

    Stay

    Sossus on Foot

    Near Solitaire, as you journey on from exploring the biggest sand dunes in the world to the south, you'll spend a night at Sossus on Foot, breaking up your journey to the coast. This is a desert camp truly in the middle of nowhere, but it offers a touch of comfort as you stay in twin-share, self-contained rooms with glass-fronted sides for you to soak up the shifting palette of colours this deep in the desert. Occasionally your group may be accommodated at another property of a similar standard nearby such as Solitaire Roadhouse or Weltevrede Guest Farm.

  • Prost Hotel, Swakopmund, Namibia, Gathering Space Exterior

    Swakopmund

    Stay

    Swakopmund

    On Namibia's coast midway through the trip, you'll stay in the Prost Hotel (or similar), in a central location – so you can easily explore the town. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Swakopmund serves as a sort of civilisation-stopover for one night in the middle of your wilderness meanderings.

  • Campground at Etosha, Namibia

    Etosha National Park

    Stay

    Etosha National Park

    You'll spend two nights sleeping inside one of the world's great wildlife havens: Etosha National Park. This gives you a front-row seat to all the action, with the plethora of animal life right outside meaning morning and sunset safaris start right outside the entrance to camp. There are several campgrounds spread around the National Park, but you'll be staying at Okaukuejo. By the time you reach Etosha, you'll be more than settled into the rhythm of an overground camping trip in Africa. As before, during your time camping in the desert, you'll stay in twin-share tents.

What You'll Eat

At the various campsites throughout your trip, your guides will be cooking hearty meals over an open fire – expect braai (BBQ) food, potjie and stir-fries with a selection of sides. Breakfasts will be continental-style and usually consist of cereals,…

Food and Dietary info

At the various campsites throughout your trip, your guides will be cooking hearty meals over an open fire – expect braai (BBQ) food, potjie and stir-fries with a selection of sides. Breakfasts will be continental-style and usually consist of cereals, coffee, yoghurt, muesli, fresh fruit or the occasional cooked breakfast. Many of the lunches on the trip aren't included – you'll need to buy lunch from small shops, cafes and restaurants during the journey. Your guide will factor these supply runs in and often you'll buy packed lunches from a restaurant or small shop on-site at certain campgrounds, ready for the day ahead. Expect a good selection of sandwich ingredients like cheese and cold meats, plus pasta and salads. We recommend that you budget £7-8 for each lunch that isn't provided.

Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for – please just let your host know on booking. Note that vegan options are very limited in Namibia, so if you're a strict vegan we suggest packing some of your favourite protein bars for extra fuel.

Optional Extras

Equipment / Kit Hire

Sleeping bag and pillow hire
…/per person

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Single Room - Windhoek (Arrebusch Travel Lodge)
…
Twin/Double Room - Windhoek (Arrebusch Travel Lodge)
…

Upgrades

Optional Private Room & Tent Upgrade
…

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and tent can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).

Transfers

Private airport transfer - each way per person
…

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Trip level explained

Level 1

Easy

You'll need a decent level of general fitness, but this is a lighter adventure trip and if you are happy hiking for a few hours at a time in the mountains and over sand dunes, you'll be just fine. The pace is easygoing and you'll be stopping often to marvel at sweeping vistas in the Namib Desert, and, of course, the myriad wildlife in Etosha National Park. It's more important to bring along a sense of adventure, and love of vast, remote, empty spaces and a cooperative spirit to muck in with setting up and taking down camp each day and helping out at meal times.

On Day 3, you will hike the famous Olive Trail. This is a harder day and is more of a moderate hike. At the end of the hike, there is an 8-10 metre fixed-chain section traversing a small gorge; this section is quite exposed with a short but steep drop underneath.

What if i need to skip an activity?

There are opportunities to skip out certain activities on this trip and relax at camp instead, such as at Spitzkoppe and Etosha when you are staying who nights in succession. However, the majority of the rest of the trip moves on after a night at each camp while you roam and explore all that Namibia has to offer. With that in mind, there will be times when skipping activities is not possible, but you can liaise with your guide on the ground.

What will I need to carry?

You'll need to have a larger bag suitable for all your belongings which will be transported for you, and then a small daypack to carry personal items during each day of hiking.

Ratings & Reviews

4.8142 reviews
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)

Category rating

Food
5.0
Guides & crew
5.0
Accommodation
4.0
Itinerary
4.0

Latest Reviews

  • Maree D.

    My trip to Namibia was everything I needed and more. There were so many highlights I can’t even choose one. Our guide ‘Omo’ was a great cook, driver and a wealth of local knowledge. I felt like I was in safe hands the whole trip. I already miss the wide open skies and hope to return one day. Maree

  • John U.

    If you want to see all the major highlights of the country, within a relatively short period of time, this is the trip of your choice. I was mostly impressed by the desert part of the trip. Walking/driving/sandboarding in this “sea of sand” with sand dunes of incredible size made a huge impression. Also, the last camp was exciting with wild animals, such as baboons, swedes, mongoose and warthogs, coming all the way into the camp. The local guides, Erastus and MC, were very supportive and did an excellent job. The best food experiences on the trip were during camping and under MCs supervision. As you probably already have read the itinerary and a few of the other reviews, I will just share some experiences which could be helpful for future travelers. The itinerary mentions that rain can occur during this time of the year (April). This can be confirmed. The rain usually stops after a short time, but it's a lot of water coming down and you will get soaked if you are unlucky and are on one of the treks. I had my GTX jacket but didn't bring my rain poncho, which would have been a better choice. Bring a poncho if you visit the country at this time of the year. Hiking boots isn't really necessary unless you have weak ankles and need extra support. Trail running shoes worked very well both on the treks and in the sand dunes. Consider GTX as it both prevents rain and dust/sand to enter the shoes. Combine with trail gaiters for the sand dunes. I used “OR Ferrosi Trail Gaiters” and I had no sand at all inside the shoes, even after running down steep sand dunes or after sandboarding. The group was able to fill 5 seats for a desert flight. The flight took approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Flying over the sand dunes and along the coast was an incredible experience, totally worth the extra pesetas. We saw e. g. , shipwreck's, seal colonies and old mining communities from the plane. The desert itself is also very beautiful to see from above due to all the different shapes and colors. Be aware that it's very hot inside the plane. The pilot will give you a small bottle of water, but some additional water could be advisable. The rest of the group who did the alternative desert-car-thing ranked it afterwards as one of the best experiences on the trip. So don't be disappointed if you miss the desert flight. If you aren't able to fill a plane (5 clients), it's quite expensive and I would rather go for the desert-car-thing. I will just add a couple of photos from the desert flight as these seem to be underrepresented in previous reviews.

  • Matthew S.

    I'd give 4. 5 if I could, 4 felt mean so I've gone for 5! It was a phenomenal experience full of some exceptional memories, but some things could still be improved. The good: Namibia is simply a stunning country, and this itinerary really packs in some of the major sights. The Sandwich Harbour tour in particular will stay with me for a very long time, as will our heart-stopping up-close lion and elephant encounters in Etosha. The two guides were excellent - Erastus a friendly, capable and effective group leader and MC a brilliant chef (the food when camping was amazing) and bringer of good vibes. And it's just a really effective way to explore a country in a short space of time - it would have taken me weeks to plan something like this, and it would have cost a good bit more I'm sure. I am glad I did it and would recommend it to others. The less good: After a stunning first 6 days, jam-packed with incredible scenery and experiences, I felt the trip started to lose momentum a bit. Spitzkoppe was beautiful (especially the cave art) but we did one hike not two, and were unlucky with the weather so no stargazing. Then Etosha again the weather played a big role - with so much rain the watering holes were not used by the larger animals. Not much MBA can do about that but if I had my time again I'd go in May rather than April to mitigate that risk. Then Day 9, the description implies there is one game drive included and one optional, when there was actually just one, which you had to pay extra for. This description still needs updating. Then Waterberg was a bit of a flat ending for me - no sign or mention of rhinos (presumably weather-related), and again one (very nice) hike not two. By then people were also a bit tired of camping, I think. Other things worth mentioning: This is neither good nor bad but the group was older than I expected (3 out of 12 under 40 I believe). And 8 out of 12 had travelled in pairs which did affect the group dynamic, making it a little harder for the solo travellers I think. Lastly, a small number in the group were a little anti-social and not experienced travellers, which made for some trying dynamics. There's only so much MBA/the guides can do about this but it affected my enjoyment. Also I was shocked to see used tissues/wet wipes left on the ground at our Spitzkoppe campsite as we packed up. Perhaps more could be done to emphasise 'leave no trace' practices in these beautiful natural locations, even if it shouldn't need to be said. All these things though are relatively minor compared to the stunning memories and photos I will take with me, along with hopefully a few people I will stay in touch with. Thanks MBA for helping me find this tour, and especially to Erastus and MC, and the superstar group members who really held things together for everyone's benefit.

  • John D.

    I had a fantastic trip, Erastus & MC were excellent hosts and chefs, (Veggie well catered for). The trip had everything I wanted and wished for from Namibia, with very varied activities, long walks, desert hikes, dune walks, sand surfing and more. The add on day safari was unbelievable , with Lions and elephants walking up to out truck, on meters away. There were a few long drives on some days and the truck could do with getting the top seals fixed for when it rains. I loved the camping, making and breaking tents, helping others do the same, working as a team to reload the truck and sitting around the fire in the evening. I know it was not for everyone, and in a group of 12, for some people is was too basic and possibly expected more. It was nice to stay in a hotel for an odd day to clean up and repack the bags. My travelling companion insists that I put on that the truck should have connectivity for music!

  • Amie A.

    We had the most amazing time on this trip. Gabriel is a fantastic and knowledgeable guide and MC's cooking is incredible - catering for everyone! From Dune 45, to Sandwich Harbour to Safari, the views were incredible. The campsites were safe and comfortable and the whole trip so well planned with optional activities suited for everyone.

  • H P.

    I really enjoyed this trip and especially the guide Gabriel and MC. They were on top of everything and had every detail planned. Gabriel was also a very insightful guide into the culture of Namibia and the details. Highly recommend.

  • Frances L.

    We had an incredible experience in Namibia. Gabriel is an outstanding and knowledgeable guide and MC is a Master Chef! We loved every minute of the trip and find it hard to pick a favourite between running down Dune 45; zig zagging in the 4x4 in Sandwich Harbour; spotting lions in Etosha or marvelling at the awesome Spitzkoppe or Deadvlei. We did pay extra for the 4x4 and the day safari but it was totally worth it. Gabriel was very clear on the pricing right from the outset. We had great fun with the group and each campsite was super. We even enjoyed the sand storm! Highly recommend this trip to anyone considering it. You won't regret it!

  • Frances L.

    We had an incredible experience in Namibia. Gabriel is an outstanding and knowledgeable guide and MC is a Master Chef! We loved every minute of the trip and find it hard to pick a favourite between running down Dune 45; zig zagging in the 4x4 in Sandwich Harbour; spotting lions in Etosha or marvelling at the awesome Spitzkoppe or Deadvlei. We did pay extra for the 4x4 and the day safari but it was totally worth it. Gabriel was very clear on the pricing right from the outset. We had great fun with the group and each campsite was super. We even enjoyed the sand storm! Highly recommend this trip to anyone considering it. You won't regret it!

  • Will B.

    My first MBA trip (and solo trip) and I am so glad I did it! Went for Namibia as a friend has been there and recommended and I 100% agree. The landscapes and wildlife are amazing and the pictures on the reviews don’t compare to seeing it in persons. Massive thank you to Ewald for being a great guide and looking after the group, MC for all his amazing cooking, and everyone in the group for making it a fantastic trip! Not being a morning person and someone that isn’t used to adventure packed itinerary’s on a holiday it was pretty tiring by the end of the trip but it is so worth it so don’t let that put you off. Few points below that either I was looking for in reviews before going or think are worth mentioning having been… Difficulty: I’d say MBA difficulty ratings are probably based on the assumption that you are an active/person and have some level of hiking experience. I don’t do much exercise really, just walking about day to day averaging ~8k-10k steps. Although this trip is rated easy, there were parts that I was near my limit (initial ascent on the olive trail for example). Safari 4x4: Can’t remember the exact cost, about £50 maybe (2025). This is definitely a must, to make the most of the time in Etosha. Plane sightseeing: Didn’t manage to do this myself as we couldn’t fill the plane. Not much info on prices in other reviews so bit more here. A plane is about £1250 for 5 to book. So if you can get a full plane, either from the group or with some seats filled from elsewhere, then it’s about £250pp. If there are less than 5 then the price pp changes accordingly. If you can’t fill the plane then it’s a bit expensive. Stargazing: If this is an important part of why you are going then make sure you book when it is a new moon. I didn’t consider this and although I managed to get a few good Milky Way pics, often the couple of times there were dark skies were either very early in the morning or coincided with dinner/packing up camp so couldn’t really make the most of them.

  • Will B.

    My first MBA trip (and solo trip) and I am so glad I did it! Went for Namibia as a friend has been there and recommended and I 100% agree. The landscapes and wildlife are amazing and the pictures on the reviews don’t compare to seeing it in persons. Massive thank you to Ewald for being a great guide and looking after the group, MC for all his amazing cooking, and everyone in the group for making it a fantastic trip! Not being a morning person and someone that isn’t used to adventure packed itinerary’s on a holiday it was pretty tiring by the end of the trip but it is so worth it so don’t let that put you off. Few points below that either I was looking for in reviews before going or think are worth mentioning having been… Difficulty: I’d say MBA difficulty ratings are probably based on the assumption that you are an active/person and have some level of hiking experience. I don’t do much exercise really, just walking about day to day averaging ~8k-10k steps. Although this trip is rated easy, there were parts that I was near my limit (initial ascent on the olive trail for example). Safari 4x4: Can’t remember the exact cost, about £50 maybe (2025). This is definitely a must, to make the most of the time in Etosha. Plane sightseeing: Didn’t manage to do this myself as we couldn’t fill the plane. Not much info on prices in other reviews so bit more here. A plane is about £1250 for 5 to book. So if you can get a full plane, either from the group or with some seats filled from elsewhere, then it’s about £250pp. If there are less than 5 then the price pp changes accordingly. If you can’t fill the plane then it’s a bit expensive. Stargazing: If this is an important part of why you are going then make sure you book when it is a new moon. I didn’t consider this and although I managed to get a few good Milky Way pics, often the couple of times there were dark skies were either very early in the morning or coincided with dinner/packing up camp so couldn’t really make the most of them.

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  • Perfect break from my busy life

    Maree D. May 2026
    My trip to Namibia was everything I needed and more. There were so many highlights I can’t even choose one. Our guide ‘Omo’ was a great cook, driver and a wealth of local knowledge. I felt like I was in safe hands the whole trip. I already miss the wide open skies and hope to return one day. Maree

  • Interesting country with magnificent scenery

    John U. May 2026
    If you want to see all the major highlights of the country, within a relatively short period of time, this is the trip of your choice. I was mostly impressed by the desert part of the trip. Walking/driving/sandboarding in this “sea of sand” with sand dunes of incredible size made a huge impression. Also, the last camp was exciting with wild animals, such as baboons, swedes, mongoose and warthogs, coming all the way into the camp. The local guides, Erastus and MC, were very supportive and did an excellent job. The best food experiences on the trip were during camping and under MCs supervision. As you probably already have read the itinerary and a few of the other reviews, I will just share some experiences which could be helpful for future travelers. The itinerary mentions that rain can occur during this time of the year (April). This can be confirmed. The rain usually stops after a short time, but it's a lot of water coming down and you will get soaked if you are unlucky and are on one of the treks. I had my GTX jacket but didn't bring my rain poncho, which would have been a better choice. Bring a poncho if you visit the country at this time of the year. Hiking boots isn't really necessary unless you have weak ankles and need extra support. Trail running shoes worked very well both on the treks and in the sand dunes. Consider GTX as it both prevents rain and dust/sand to enter the shoes. Combine with trail gaiters for the sand dunes. I used “OR Ferrosi Trail Gaiters” and I had no sand at all inside the shoes, even after running down steep sand dunes or after sandboarding. The group was able to fill 5 seats for a desert flight. The flight took approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Flying over the sand dunes and along the coast was an incredible experience, totally worth the extra pesetas. We saw e. g. , shipwreck's, seal colonies and old mining communities from the plane. The desert itself is also very beautiful to see from above due to all the different shapes and colors. Be aware that it's very hot inside the plane. The pilot will give you a small bottle of water, but some additional water could be advisable. The rest of the group who did the alternative desert-car-thing ranked it afterwards as one of the best experiences on the trip. So don't be disappointed if you miss the desert flight. If you aren't able to fill a plane (5 clients), it's quite expensive and I would rather go for the desert-car-thing. I will just add a couple of photos from the desert flight as these seem to be underrepresented in previous reviews.

  • A stunning trip

    Matthew S. April 2026
    I'd give 4. 5 if I could, 4 felt mean so I've gone for 5! It was a phenomenal experience full of some exceptional memories, but some things could still be improved. The good: Namibia is simply a stunning country, and this itinerary really packs in some of the major sights. The Sandwich Harbour tour in particular will stay with me for a very long time, as will our heart-stopping up-close lion and elephant encounters in Etosha. The two guides were excellent - Erastus a friendly, capable and effective group leader and MC a brilliant chef (the food when camping was amazing) and bringer of good vibes. And it's just a really effective way to explore a country in a short space of time - it would have taken me weeks to plan something like this, and it would have cost a good bit more I'm sure. I am glad I did it and would recommend it to others. The less good: After a stunning first 6 days, jam-packed with incredible scenery and experiences, I felt the trip started to lose momentum a bit. Spitzkoppe was beautiful (especially the cave art) but we did one hike not two, and were unlucky with the weather so no stargazing. Then Etosha again the weather played a big role - with so much rain the watering holes were not used by the larger animals. Not much MBA can do about that but if I had my time again I'd go in May rather than April to mitigate that risk. Then Day 9, the description implies there is one game drive included and one optional, when there was actually just one, which you had to pay extra for. This description still needs updating. Then Waterberg was a bit of a flat ending for me - no sign or mention of rhinos (presumably weather-related), and again one (very nice) hike not two. By then people were also a bit tired of camping, I think. Other things worth mentioning: This is neither good nor bad but the group was older than I expected (3 out of 12 under 40 I believe). And 8 out of 12 had travelled in pairs which did affect the group dynamic, making it a little harder for the solo travellers I think. Lastly, a small number in the group were a little anti-social and not experienced travellers, which made for some trying dynamics. There's only so much MBA/the guides can do about this but it affected my enjoyment. Also I was shocked to see used tissues/wet wipes left on the ground at our Spitzkoppe campsite as we packed up. Perhaps more could be done to emphasise 'leave no trace' practices in these beautiful natural locations, even if it shouldn't need to be said. All these things though are relatively minor compared to the stunning memories and photos I will take with me, along with hopefully a few people I will stay in touch with. Thanks MBA for helping me find this tour, and especially to Erastus and MC, and the superstar group members who really held things together for everyone's benefit.

  • Fantastic Trip

    John D. April 2026
    I had a fantastic trip, Erastus & MC were excellent hosts and chefs, (Veggie well catered for). The trip had everything I wanted and wished for from Namibia, with very varied activities, long walks, desert hikes, dune walks, sand surfing and more. The add on day safari was unbelievable , with Lions and elephants walking up to out truck, on meters away. There were a few long drives on some days and the truck could do with getting the top seals fixed for when it rains. I loved the camping, making and breaking tents, helping others do the same, working as a team to reload the truck and sitting around the fire in the evening. I know it was not for everyone, and in a group of 12, for some people is was too basic and possibly expected more. It was nice to stay in a hotel for an odd day to clean up and repack the bags. My travelling companion insists that I put on that the truck should have connectivity for music!

  • The most amazing trip

    Amie A. July 2025
    We had the most amazing time on this trip. Gabriel is a fantastic and knowledgeable guide and MC's cooking is incredible - catering for everyone! From Dune 45, to Sandwich Harbour to Safari, the views were incredible. The campsites were safe and comfortable and the whole trip so well planned with optional activities suited for everyone.

  • Once in a lifetime trip

    H P. July 2025
    I really enjoyed this trip and especially the guide Gabriel and MC. They were on top of everything and had every detail planned. Gabriel was also a very insightful guide into the culture of Namibia and the details. Highly recommend.

  • Brilliant Adventure!

    Frances L. July 2025
    We had an incredible experience in Namibia. Gabriel is an outstanding and knowledgeable guide and MC is a Master Chef! We loved every minute of the trip and find it hard to pick a favourite between running down Dune 45; zig zagging in the 4x4 in Sandwich Harbour; spotting lions in Etosha or marvelling at the awesome Spitzkoppe or Deadvlei. We did pay extra for the 4x4 and the day safari but it was totally worth it. Gabriel was very clear on the pricing right from the outset. We had great fun with the group and each campsite was super. We even enjoyed the sand storm! Highly recommend this trip to anyone considering it. You won't regret it!

  • Brilliant Adventure!

    Frances L. July 2025
    We had an incredible experience in Namibia. Gabriel is an outstanding and knowledgeable guide and MC is a Master Chef! We loved every minute of the trip and find it hard to pick a favourite between running down Dune 45; zig zagging in the 4x4 in Sandwich Harbour; spotting lions in Etosha or marvelling at the awesome Spitzkoppe or Deadvlei. We did pay extra for the 4x4 and the day safari but it was totally worth it. Gabriel was very clear on the pricing right from the outset. We had great fun with the group and each campsite was super. We even enjoyed the sand storm! Highly recommend this trip to anyone considering it. You won't regret it!

  • Namazing! Thank you Ewald and MC!

    Will B. July 2025
    My first MBA trip (and solo trip) and I am so glad I did it! Went for Namibia as a friend has been there and recommended and I 100% agree. The landscapes and wildlife are amazing and the pictures on the reviews don’t compare to seeing it in persons. Massive thank you to Ewald for being a great guide and looking after the group, MC for all his amazing cooking, and everyone in the group for making it a fantastic trip! Not being a morning person and someone that isn’t used to adventure packed itinerary’s on a holiday it was pretty tiring by the end of the trip but it is so worth it so don’t let that put you off. Few points below that either I was looking for in reviews before going or think are worth mentioning having been… Difficulty: I’d say MBA difficulty ratings are probably based on the assumption that you are an active/person and have some level of hiking experience. I don’t do much exercise really, just walking about day to day averaging ~8k-10k steps. Although this trip is rated easy, there were parts that I was near my limit (initial ascent on the olive trail for example). Safari 4x4: Can’t remember the exact cost, about £50 maybe (2025). This is definitely a must, to make the most of the time in Etosha. Plane sightseeing: Didn’t manage to do this myself as we couldn’t fill the plane. Not much info on prices in other reviews so bit more here. A plane is about £1250 for 5 to book. So if you can get a full plane, either from the group or with some seats filled from elsewhere, then it’s about £250pp. If there are less than 5 then the price pp changes accordingly. If you can’t fill the plane then it’s a bit expensive. Stargazing: If this is an important part of why you are going then make sure you book when it is a new moon. I didn’t consider this and although I managed to get a few good Milky Way pics, often the couple of times there were dark skies were either very early in the morning or coincided with dinner/packing up camp so couldn’t really make the most of them.

  • Namazing! Thank you Ewald and MC!

    Will B. July 2025
    My first MBA trip (and solo trip) and I am so glad I did it! Went for Namibia as a friend has been there and recommended and I 100% agree. The landscapes and wildlife are amazing and the pictures on the reviews don’t compare to seeing it in persons. Massive thank you to Ewald for being a great guide and looking after the group, MC for all his amazing cooking, and everyone in the group for making it a fantastic trip! Not being a morning person and someone that isn’t used to adventure packed itinerary’s on a holiday it was pretty tiring by the end of the trip but it is so worth it so don’t let that put you off. Few points below that either I was looking for in reviews before going or think are worth mentioning having been… Difficulty: I’d say MBA difficulty ratings are probably based on the assumption that you are an active/person and have some level of hiking experience. I don’t do much exercise really, just walking about day to day averaging ~8k-10k steps. Although this trip is rated easy, there were parts that I was near my limit (initial ascent on the olive trail for example). Safari 4x4: Can’t remember the exact cost, about £50 maybe (2025). This is definitely a must, to make the most of the time in Etosha. Plane sightseeing: Didn’t manage to do this myself as we couldn’t fill the plane. Not much info on prices in other reviews so bit more here. A plane is about £1250 for 5 to book. So if you can get a full plane, either from the group or with some seats filled from elsewhere, then it’s about £250pp. If there are less than 5 then the price pp changes accordingly. If you can’t fill the plane then it’s a bit expensive. Stargazing: If this is an important part of why you are going then make sure you book when it is a new moon. I didn’t consider this and although I managed to get a few good Milky Way pics, often the couple of times there were dark skies were either very early in the morning or coincided with dinner/packing up camp so couldn’t really make the most of them.

  • Wonderful and intense trip in

    Maria C. June 2025
    Wonderful and intense trip in gorgeous nature!

  • Wonderful and intense trip in

    Maria C. June 2025
    Wonderful and intense trip in gorgeous nature!

  • Stunning Scenary, Sand Dunes, Safari & Super Service

    Simon H. May 2025
    I would have given this SUPERB trip 5 stars BUT the treks were NOT 'Easy' as labelled so I missed out on most of them because after the first one I was TERRIFIED! Steep, rocky and uneven! Not a great start to my holiday but I didn't let it spoil my trip. It was brilliantly organised, food outstanding (thanks MC) and it was a memorable holiday. I just wish I could have participated more in the treks. That aside I'm glad I did it and it was nice to spend sometime on my own reading and admiring the scenary.

  • Stunning Scenary, Sand Dunes, Safari & Super Service

    Simon H. May 2025
    I would have given this SUPERB trip 5 stars BUT the treks were NOT 'Easy' as labelled so I missed out on most of them because after the first one I was TERRIFIED! Steep, rocky and uneven! Not a great start to my holiday but I didn't let it spoil my trip. It was brilliantly organised, food outstanding (thanks MC) and it was a memorable holiday. I just wish I could have participated more in the treks. That aside I'm glad I did it and it was nice to spend sometime on my own reading and admiring the scenary.

  • An amazing country

    Morag T. April 2025
    I will start by saying that Namibia is an amazing country and that I had a brilliant time. This trip covers a lot of ground so there is a lot of time in the truck, no bad thing as most of the time the scenery is amazing, however the roads are not so it’s not a smooth ride. Be prepared for a lot of early starts, again not really a problem when you are camping. The camping was great, tents a good size and the provided sleeping mats very comfortable. The campsites were mixed, some were huge and busy and others quiet and remote. MC’s cooking was amazing and all the catered food was fantastic and I was well catered for as someone who is gluten intolerant. However, now onto the negatives, the itinerary is very misleading with regards to a lot of the walking. When we showed it to our guide he was quite shocked at what we were ‘supposed’ to be doing. A lot of the ‘walks’ either didn’t happen or were incredibly short so if you are wanting to be active this is definitely not the trip for you. There were also some fairly compulsory added extras, the optional 4x4 on day 4 was not optional, we were not able to walk and had to pay for the vehicle. And again the optional safari 4x4 jeep isn’t really optional. The guides you have with you don’t know about animals or safaris, as they say, they live in Windhoek so you basically have to get the 4x4. And then in Swakopmund there is the option to go on a flight the afternoon you arrive and/or go out on the dunes the next morning. If you opt not to do either of these then you have nothing organised for 24hrs, not necessarily a bad thing, Swakopmund is a nice place but be prepared to factor that in. Personally the trip out into the sand dunes with an amazing picnic was one of the highlights for me as was walking up Dune 45 for sunrise. I also think our group were unanimous in the fact that we’d have liked 2 nights in Spitzkoppe, it’s a totally magical place but we arrived mid afternoon and left in the morning, all of us would have liked longer there. So an amazing trip but one which I feel needs fine tuning and the itinerary really needs to be more accurate. Would I recommend, definitely just be aware of these things. Oh, and I booked a Windhoek City Tour through tripadvisor for the afternoon we arrived, while there isn’t a huge amount to see or do in Windhoek, it was a good way to see the place, keep us awake and feel we’d seen more than just a hotel.

  • An amazing country

    Morag T. April 2025
    I will start by saying that Namibia is an amazing country and that I had a brilliant time. This trip covers a lot of ground so there is a lot of time in the truck, no bad thing as most of the time the scenery is amazing, however the roads are not so it’s not a smooth ride. Be prepared for a lot of early starts, again not really a problem when you are camping. The camping was great, tents a good size and the provided sleeping mats very comfortable. The campsites were mixed, some were huge and busy and others quiet and remote. MC’s cooking was amazing and all the catered food was fantastic and I was well catered for as someone who is gluten intolerant. However, now onto the negatives, the itinerary is very misleading with regards to a lot of the walking. When we showed it to our guide he was quite shocked at what we were ‘supposed’ to be doing. A lot of the ‘walks’ either didn’t happen or were incredibly short so if you are wanting to be active this is definitely not the trip for you. There were also some fairly compulsory added extras, the optional 4x4 on day 4 was not optional, we were not able to walk and had to pay for the vehicle. And again the optional safari 4x4 jeep isn’t really optional. The guides you have with you don’t know about animals or safaris, as they say, they live in Windhoek so you basically have to get the 4x4. And then in Swakopmund there is the option to go on a flight the afternoon you arrive and/or go out on the dunes the next morning. If you opt not to do either of these then you have nothing organised for 24hrs, not necessarily a bad thing, Swakopmund is a nice place but be prepared to factor that in. Personally the trip out into the sand dunes with an amazing picnic was one of the highlights for me as was walking up Dune 45 for sunrise. I also think our group were unanimous in the fact that we’d have liked 2 nights in Spitzkoppe, it’s a totally magical place but we arrived mid afternoon and left in the morning, all of us would have liked longer there. So an amazing trip but one which I feel needs fine tuning and the itinerary really needs to be more accurate. Would I recommend, definitely just be aware of these things. Oh, and I booked a Windhoek City Tour through tripadvisor for the afternoon we arrived, while there isn’t a huge amount to see or do in Windhoek, it was a good way to see the place, keep us awake and feel we’d seen more than just a hotel.

  • Namibia is definitely worth a

    Natalie T. March 2025
    Namibia is definitely worth a visit with stunning landscapes, big skies and beautiful sunsets. There’s no better way to experience it than camping under the stars. Our guide Gabriel was superb, he was knowledgeable, funny and looked after us all well as did our chef MC who cooked some delicious meals. If you are looking for a hiking adventure then this is not the trip for you, apart from the olive trail on day 3 it is mostly relatively short walks with long journeys on the bus inbetween. We did the optional dune buggy tour in Swakopmund which we felt was overly expensive and if you visit Etosha in the rainy season request a dawn or dusk safari ride as you won’t see many animals during the day. There are the options to eat in a few of the campsite restaurants, but as a group we preferred to enjoy beers and food by the campfire and MC was very happy to accommodate our request for this. The big highlights were climbing Dune 45 at sunrise with a wonderful breakfast produced by MC at the bottom and camping in Spitskoppe. We were the only ones there, the scenery and watching the stars at night was breathtaking. Overall this was a wonderful experience made better by the people and the laughs we had along the way.

  • Namibia is definitely worth a

    Natalie T. March 2025
    Namibia is definitely worth a visit with stunning landscapes, big skies and beautiful sunsets. There’s no better way to experience it than camping under the stars. Our guide Gabriel was superb, he was knowledgeable, funny and looked after us all well as did our chef MC who cooked some delicious meals. If you are looking for a hiking adventure then this is not the trip for you, apart from the olive trail on day 3 it is mostly relatively short walks with long journeys on the bus inbetween. We did the optional dune buggy tour in Swakopmund which we felt was overly expensive and if you visit Etosha in the rainy season request a dawn or dusk safari ride as you won’t see many animals during the day. There are the options to eat in a few of the campsite restaurants, but as a group we preferred to enjoy beers and food by the campfire and MC was very happy to accommodate our request for this. The big highlights were climbing Dune 45 at sunrise with a wonderful breakfast produced by MC at the bottom and camping in Spitskoppe. We were the only ones there, the scenery and watching the stars at night was breathtaking. Overall this was a wonderful experience made better by the people and the laughs we had along the way.

  • Namibia: Ten Days of Unforgettable Wonder

    Eleanor G. March 2025
    Namibia, a land of stark beauty and breathtaking landscapes, has stolen a piece of my heart. The adventure kicked off with the Olive Trail hike, a thrilling experience that tested my nerves, particularly the section involving chains across a gorge. While initially daunting, I felt completely secure in the capable hands of our phenomenal guide, Gabriel. His expertise and calm demeanor transformed a potentially scary moment into an exhilarating highlight. Throughout the entire trip, Gabriel was a constant source of knowledge, humour, and genuine care, making us feel not just like tourists, but like family. Adding to the magic was our 'Namazing' chef, MC. Every night, he conjured up delicious, home-cooked meals, catering to everyone’s dietary needs and preferences with a smile. From hearty stews to fresh salads, his culinary skills were a constant delight. The Sossusvlei region was a dream come true. Witnessing sunrise atop Dune 45, then sprinting (or sliding) down its sandy slopes, was an unforgettable experience. To be greeted at the bottom by a cooked breakfast was the cherry on top. Deadvlei, a place I’d only seen in pictures, exceeded all expectations. My favourite campsite was undoubtedly Spitzkoppe. The raw, back-to-basics experience, coupled with the indescribable mountain views, was simply breathtaking. It was a reminder of the simple beauty of nature. Etosha's game drive, while light on big cats due to the rainy season, still offered beautiful wildlife sightings, including a black Rhino we admired as the sun set. A few things to note: the hiking is relatively minimal, which may disappoint avid trekkers. Also, be prepared to budget extra for optional excursions, some more expensive than others. More than just the landscapes, it was the people who made this trip extraordinary. The laughter, and genuine connections forged were invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend this trip to anyone seeking beauty and adventure. You won't regret it.

  • Namibia: Ten Days of Unforgettable Wonder

    Eleanor G. March 2025
    Namibia, a land of stark beauty and breathtaking landscapes, has stolen a piece of my heart. The adventure kicked off with the Olive Trail hike, a thrilling experience that tested my nerves, particularly the section involving chains across a gorge. While initially daunting, I felt completely secure in the capable hands of our phenomenal guide, Gabriel. His expertise and calm demeanor transformed a potentially scary moment into an exhilarating highlight. Throughout the entire trip, Gabriel was a constant source of knowledge, humour, and genuine care, making us feel not just like tourists, but like family. Adding to the magic was our "Namazing" chef, MC. Every night, he conjured up delicious, home-cooked meals, catering to everyone’s dietary needs and preferences with a smile. From hearty stews to fresh salads, his culinary skills were a constant delight. The Sossusvlei region was a dream come true. Witnessing sunrise atop Dune 45, then sprinting (or sliding) down its sandy slopes, was an unforgettable experience. To be greeted at the bottom by a cooked breakfast was the cherry on top. Deadvlei, a place I’d only seen in pictures, exceeded all expectations. My favourite campsite was undoubtedly Spitzkoppe. The raw, back-to-basics experience, coupled with the indescribable mountain views, was simply breathtaking. It was a reminder of the simple beauty of nature. Etosha's game drive, while light on big cats due to the rainy season, still offered beautiful wildlife sightings, including a black Rhino we admired as the sun set. A few things to note: the hiking is relatively minimal, which may disappoint avid trekkers. Also, be prepared to budget extra for optional excursions, some more expensive than others. More than just the landscapes, it was the people who made this trip extraordinary. The laughter, and genuine connections forged were invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend this trip to anyone seeking beauty and adventure. You won't regret it.

  • A beautiful trip that could be made even better

    Visnja February 2025
    I was beyond lucky to have been a part of this group and to have Gabriel as our guide and MC as his wingman. Gabriel was extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to showing us the best of Namibia, with MC keeping us safe and well fed throughout the trip. I've had loads of laughs and magical moments along the way and this trip will definitely stay in my memory as a special time. The itinerary was solid and we've seen some exquisite landscapes and wildlife, and spent time in some beautiful campsites (especially on Day 4 and in Spitzkoppe). A few things that I noted as downsides were Days 5 and 6 of the itinerary where we didn't do much - Walvis Bay was not very enjoyable and a couple of hours in Swakopmund would have been sufficient. The optional 4x4 ride along the coast was extremely expensive for the type of activity (watching dead or dying seals along what was dubbed 'death beach' by a fellow traveller). I wish we could have spent some time on Skeleton Coast instead or headed to Spitzkoppe earlier. Day 8 was meant to be 'settle into your overlanding truck for a classic day of safari game drives' however we were advised to get a 4x4 Jeep to have a better chance of spotting wildlife, which cost extra - this was understandable however due to it being the wet season and low chances of spotting animals at the waterholes. I found lunch stops at restaurants to be somewhat unnecessary and would have personally found it better to grab something on the go and spend more time exploring. Overall a great trip but the itinerary could use a few tweaks to make it better in my opinion.

  • A beautiful trip that could be made even better

    Visnja February 2025
    I was beyond lucky to have been a part of this group and to have Gabriel as our guide and MC as his wingman. Gabriel was extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to showing us the best of Namibia, with MC keeping us safe and well fed throughout the trip. I've had loads of laughs and magical moments along the way and this trip will definitely stay in my memory as a special time. The itinerary was solid and we've seen some exquisite landscapes and wildlife, and spent time in some beautiful campsites (especially on Day 4 and in Spitzkoppe). A few things that I noted as downsides were Days 5 and 6 of the itinerary where we didn't do much - Walvis Bay was not very enjoyable and a couple of hours in Swakopmund would have been sufficient. The optional 4x4 ride along the coast was extremely expensive for the type of activity (watching dead or dying seals along what was dubbed "death beach" by a fellow traveller). I wish we could have spent some time on Skeleton Coast instead or headed to Spitzkoppe earlier. Day 8 was meant to be "settle into your overlanding truck for a classic day of safari game drives" however we were advised to get a 4x4 Jeep to have a better chance of spotting wildlife, which cost extra - this was understandable however due to it being the wet season and low chances of spotting animals at the waterholes. I found lunch stops at restaurants to be somewhat unnecessary and would have personally found it better to grab something on the go and spend more time exploring. Overall a great trip but the itinerary could use a few tweaks to make it better in my opinion.

  • I wanted to give more stars but couldn't.

    Paul H. February 2025
    This trip is simply fantastic; the scenery, animals, people make it well worth going on; although booked in the rainy season so harder to see the Big5 we still saw loads; Why not 5 stars, that's down to the additional trip options, which were expensive (dune safari) and options for the safari in Etousha where limited; The two guides led by Gabriel with MC doing all the cooking were, 'namtastic' full of fun, smiles, knowledge and experience, always greeting the early starts or after a long drive with a pleasant smile; Some of the restaurants options were limited, but a quick persuade of MC and a call to get food, we soon had a fresh meal cooked; Would I recommend it, as my first trip into the heart of Africa, simply Yes!, would I book with MBA again, Yes, already looking at my next trip; Thank you to Gabriel and MC and all the team behind the trip, it was really worth all the hours in Leo, and the early starts.

  • I wanted to give more stars but couldn't.

    Paul H. February 2025
    This trip is simply fantastic; the scenery, animals, people make it well worth going on; although booked in the rainy season so harder to see the Big5 we still saw loads; Why not 5 stars, that's down to the additional trip options, which were expensive (dune safari) and options for the safari in Etousha where limited; The two guides led by Gabriel with MC doing all the cooking were, 'namtastic' full of fun, smiles, knowledge and experience, always greeting the early starts or after a long drive with a pleasant smile; Some of the restaurants options were limited, but a quick persuade of MC and a call to get food, we soon had a fresh meal cooked; Would I recommend it, as my first trip into the heart of Africa, simply Yes!, would I book with MBA again, Yes, already looking at my next trip; Thank you to Gabriel and MC and all the team behind the trip, it was really worth all the hours in Leo, and the early starts.

  • Fell in love with Namibia!

    Elaine P. November 2024
    Fell in love with Namibia!

  • Fell in love with Namibia!

    Elaine P. November 2024
    Fell in love with Namibia!

  • What an adventure!

    Paris B. November 2024
    Thank you so much Tufi and MC for looking after us throughout the trip. Namibia is such beautiful place, the trip was jam packed but did not felt rushed or was too much. From hiking up big daddy dune to quad biking and sand boarding through the dunes in Swakopmund (added optional activity) each day was as awesome as the next. The safari was great, at the end we were lucky to see a cheater and her cub 🤩

  • What an adventure!

    Paris B. November 2024
    Thank you so much Tufi and MC for looking after us throughout the trip. Namibia is such beautiful place, the trip was jam packed but did not felt rushed or was too much. From hiking up big daddy dune to quad biking and sand boarding through the dunes in Swakopmund (added optional activity) each day was as awesome as the next. The safari was great, at the end we were lucky to see a cheater and her cub 🤩

  • An absolutely incredible experience

    Joe S. November 2024
    If you want an action packed week and a bit in an incredible country, this is for you! The landscape of Namibia is just incredible, with the sand dunes a real highlight.

  • An absolutely incredible experience

    Joe S. November 2024
    If you want an action packed week and a bit in an incredible country, this is for you! The landscape of Namibia is just incredible, with the sand dunes a real highlight.

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Departure dates

  • Friday 31st July 2026

    to Monday 10th August 2026

    …

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What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What do I need to bring?

BAGS
Soft duffel bag or rucksack
Daypack (25+ litres)

SLEEPING

  • Sleeping bag (3- or 4-season if travelling May-Sep; otherwise, 2-season is fine)
  • Lightweight, packable travel pillow (please check the Optional Extras if you prefer to hire sleeping bag and pillow from your host)
  • Sleeping bag liner and pillow case (optional)

CLOTHES
Lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket
Breathable wicking layers
Warm base layers Fleece jacket or similar
Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts for hiking
T-shirts
Underwear and socks
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Sunhat
Something to sleep in
Hiking boots (worn-in)
Lightweight shoes for camp
Down jacket and gloves (May-Sep only)

OTHER
Universal travel plug adapter
Power bank or solar charger
Passports (and visas)
Travel insurance documents
Suncream
Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
Quick-dry towel
Alcohol hand-gel
Headlamp or handtorch Binoculars (optional – for wildlife spotting in Etosha) 2 x reusable water bottle (x1 litre)

OPTIONAL
Earplugs
Energy bars and snacks

FAQs

Yes, you can try to book last minute, but if you are requesting a spot less than 31 days in advance, the host will need to check accommodation availability before accepting your booking. The lodges we use on this trip are extremely popular and space is limited, so bookings requested less than 31 days prior to the trip can be hard to confirm. We therefore definitely recommend booking early to guarantee your spot on the trip.

In Etosha, your host uses the main trip vehicle for the game drives, which we feel offers the best experience and value for money. The main trip vehicle is specially adapted to offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities with its large windows and a pop-up roof hatch. These vehicles also provide shelter from the dust and elements, which can be uncomfortable for some depending on the weather in Etosha.

For those who wish to have a different experience, there is also sometimes the option to go on a game drive in an open 4x4 Jeep with a park ranger (if time allows). This option is bookable locally and costs 1600 Namibian Dollars (around £70 per person).

In Waterberg, if you'd prefer to not hike on the plateau and would rather do your wildlife tracking on four wheels, there is an optional game drive in the afternoon, bookable locally for around £30-40/N$750-950 per person. Waterberg National Park, due to it's isolated geography, is a haven for a huge variety of bird species and flora in particular, with its own unique climate providing a garden-like environment for wildlife to thrive in. It is also home to the second-largest viable population of rhinos in the world (after Kruger National Park).

Your host is a long term specialist in Namibia overland adventures, and has encountered pretty much everything that can come up while adventuring around this magical country. If conditions affect any of the hikes or activities on this trip for whatever reason, you can rest assured that alternatives will be found nearby or the itinerary adjusted to factor this in. The sandboarding in Swakopmund is dependent on low winds, so if winds are forecast to have picked up off the Atlantic, you may do this activity on the afternoon of Day 5 rather than the morning of Day 6.

Your luggage will be transferred with you from each location on this adventure, so you can safely leave your luggage in the desert truck before heading out for each hiking adventure, or securely in your room when staying at the lodges. We suggest bringing a small daypack for carrying essential items like money, phone, sun cream, water and light snacks while on the hikes.

Your host will often be able to provide you with clean, safe drinking water from large containers. At certain times of the year, the tap water can have a slightly strange (brackish) taste to it, and on these trips, the guide will advise and help you to pick up large containers of drinking water at the start of the trip, in order to refill your smaller bottle as you go (this will be at your own expense). Therefore, bring a refillable bottle, it will be used well.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way. Check out our Community Values – a shared code to make sure that everyone's experience is safe, inclusive and brilliantly unforgettable.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Due to the desert climate in Namibia, it is generally dry and pleasant all year round. The months of June to August are sunny and warm during the day (20-25°C/68-77°F), but the temperature can down to single figures at night in the desert. Between September and May it gets warmer, with highs of around 30°C; however, it is always a dry heat and still gets colder at night throughout the year. Rainfall is usually in November to March. If it does rain, it is minimal and in short sharp downpours that are quite spectacular in the desert. We don't run departures in December and January due to the greater chances of extreme heat, which can be really tough on active adventures in the parts of Namibia that this trip visits.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 340kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

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