Brown Hyena Self-drive: Summary
Brown Hyena Self-drive in a nutshell
A two-week trip encapsulating what we love about Namibia – epic landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, a selection of our favourite luxury lodges and the freedom of exploring it all on a self-drive. This is a great introduction to Namibia’s highlights staying in some spectacular, remote spots that don’t hold back on comfort.
Pick up your car at Windhoek’s airport for the short drive to your villa at Otjimbondona Kalahari, a relaxing first stop where you’re free to explore the reserve on foot or bike. The following day’s journey is long but scenic, crossing the country west to the NamibRand Nature Reserve, a vast protected area half the size of Belgium.
Based at the fabulous Wolwedans Dunes Lodge, you can watch the sunrise between your toes as oryx amble outside your open-sided tent from bed, learn about the ancient desert eco-system from excellent guides and, being an International Dark Sky Reserve, enjoy some of the best stargazing on earth.
Follow the orange sands north to the Namib-Naukluft Park, home to Sossusvlei’s towering dunes, Deadvlei’s surrealist tree remains and the cool depths of Sesriem Canyon, then return to civilisation in the colonial seaside town of Swakopmund, a hub of adventure activities,
Dive back into the rugged deserts of Damaraland and a stay at Mowani Camp, venturing out to visit ancient rock art sites and seek desert-adapted elephant. Next is the wide white expanse of Etosha National Park. First spend two nights in the private Ongava Game Reserve on the park’s southern border in search wildlife on game drives and guided walks. Encountering white rhino on foot is a real highlight. Spend a day in Etosha at your own pace, stopping at waterholes that are a magnet for all manner of game, reaching Onguma Reserve and more safari activities. En route south back to the capital, spend a final night at Okonjima, tracking leopard and learning about the work or the AfriCat Foundation.
At a glance
| Starts: | Windhoek International Airport | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 night | Otjimbondona - Southern Namibia, Namibia | Full Board & Activities |
| 2 nights | Wolwedans Desert Lodge - NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia | Full Board & Activities |
| 2 nights | Hoodia Desert Lodge - Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia | Half Board |
| 2 nights | Strand Hotel - Swakopmund & Walvis Bay, Namibia | Bed & Breakfast |
| 2 nights | Mowani Mountain Camp - Damaraland, Namibia | Half Board |
| 2 nights | Ongava Lodge - Etosha National Park, Namibia | Full Board |
| 2 nights | Onguma Tented Camp - Etosha National Park, Namibia | Full Board & Activities |
| 1 night | Okonjima Bush Camp - Okonjima Nature Reserve, Namibia | Half Board |
| Ends: | Windhoek International Airport |
Otjimbondona
Southern Namibia, Namibia
Wolwedans Desert Lodge
NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Strand Hotel
Swakopmund & Walvis Bay, Namibia
Mowani Mountain Camp
Damaraland, Namibia
Ongava Lodge
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Onguma Tented Camp
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Okonjima Bush Camp
Okonjima Nature Reserve, Namibia
Highlights
Our thoughts on five of the top experiences of this Brown Hyena Self-drive.
- Exploring the extraordinary NamibRand
- Seeing the sunrise over Sossusvlei’s dunes
- Tracking rhino, leopards & desert elephants
- Walking & night safaris in Etosha's private reserves
- Excellent guiding, service & cuisine
Activities
Some activities which can be included in the Brown Hyena Self-drive: talk to us about those which interest you.
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Dune-boarding
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Helicopter
Horse-riding
Hot air ballooning
Kayaking
Mountain biking
Night drive
Quad-biking
Self-guided walking
Key species to see on the Brown Hyena Self-drive
Based on our travellers' observations, we’ve estimated the likelihood of seeing these species during the Brown Hyena Self-drive. Click on the animals and our wildlife surveys page for more info.
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
99% chance
94% chance
84% chance
83% chance
82% chance
80% chance
65% chance
50% chance
44% chance
43% chance
37% chance
17% chance
3% chance
Side-trips whilst on this trip
We may be able to build in some of these optional excursions from the Brown Hyena Self-drive. Talk to us: they’re usually best arranged when you book.
Ballooning in the Namib Desert
Half day, including breakfast
Ballooning over the world’s oldest desert is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Enjoy spectacular views as the sun rises over the dune-covered plains and rocky mountains of the Namib Desert. You may even spot the occasional oryx or black-backed jackal punctuating the landscape below.
More about Ballooning
Kayaking with seals
Morning incl. tea, coffee & sandwiches
Get up close and personal with a colony of Cape fur seals on a kayaking excursion from Walvis Bay. Enjoy a gentle morning’s paddle in Walvis Bay Lagoon as seals surround and interact with you and your kayak. If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of some Heaviside’s or bottlenose dolphins.
More about Kayaking with seals
Coast and Sandwich Harbour
Full day
Experience this usually inaccessible part of the Skeleton Coast, where the dunes of the Namib plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. One of our top recommendations, this is an adventurous 4WD trip, guided by experts. You'll explore the Kuiseb Delta and (tides permitting) traverse dunes and the beach to reach Sandwich Harbour, a remote freshwater lagoon with abundant birdlife.
More about Coastal tour
Dolphin and seal cruise
Half-day inc brunch
A boat cruise around Walvis Bay lagoon is a must for lovers of wildlife and the great outdoors. Seek out the ‘marine big five’ – from Cape fur seals to bottlenose dolphins – and marvel at the range of bird species for whom this haven on the Skeleton Coast is home. Then round off the morning with an oyster brunch.
More about Dolphin & seal cruise
Desert tour
Variable, depending on the tour
Discover the unexpected on a trip into the desert surrounding the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. A must for wilderness lovers, this extraordinary landscape encompasses the Welwitschia Plains, sculpted dunes, the magic of the Kuiseb Delta – and much more. There are plenty of options, each with its own unique focus.
More about Desert tour
Scenic flights in Namibia
Variable, depending on the flight
Namibia is famed for its stark beauty and boundless desert vistas and there is no better way to soak these in than from the air. A scenic flight gives you a unique perspective on this stunning and varied country, and may even provide a bird’s-eye view of areas that are out of reach to those restricted to terra firma.
More about Scenic flightsPlan and book your trip with Expert Africa
All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you. Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.
Talk to an Expert
Call or email us now! We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.
Set up your itinerary
Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.
Prepare for your trip
The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.
Travel with peace of mind
After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.
When you return
We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.
Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?
Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure
Inspire meOther ideas for Namibia trips
Look at these ideas in Namibia: then talk to us. Will will design a trip that's perfect for you.
Chongololo Self-drive Safari
21 days • 11 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
This self-drive safari focuses on the best walking experiences in Namibia. Get your boots ready for the apricot dunes of the Namib Desert and the ancient hills of Damaraland.
Visiting Central Highlands, Namib-Naukluft and 4 other areas
US$8,230 - US$9,890 per person
Cape Fox Guided Safari
13 days • 7 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A classic clockwise circuit around Namibia’s northern highlights with a private guide and vehicle. We can’t think of a better way to see more in this timeframe.
Visiting Windhoek, Namib-Naukluft and 4 other areas
US$9,220 - US$10,690 per person
Skeleton Coast Safari
5 days • 5 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
An epic flying safari exploring some of Namibia’s most spectacular and remote wildernesses. Exceptional pilots, among the best guides in the country and exclusive camps – this a real bucket-list adventure.
Visiting Skeleton Coast, Windhoek
US$9,710 - US$14,480 per person
Rock Agama Self-drive Safari
9 days • 6 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Big on experience and light on time, this self-drive trip packs in Namibia’s highlights while staying in a selection of luxury camps and lodges for an unforgettable 10 days.
Visiting Okonjima, NamibRand and 4 other areas
US$8,560 - US$14,290 per person
Hoopoe Fly-in Safari
11 days • 4 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
This relaxed fly-in safari reveals Namibia at its best. Generous timings and a wide choice of activities help travellers to enjoy the best of the country’s most spectacular areas.
Visiting Windhoek, Namib-Naukluft and 2 other areas
US$7,080 - US$10,240 per person
Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari
18 days • 10 locations • 3 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT
A truly epic southern African self-drive safari adventure from Namibia’s mountains and deserts, along the lush Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, staying at luxury lodges throughout.
Visiting Etosha, Victoria Falls and 6 other areas
US$6,910 - US$10,400 per person
Black-faced Impala Guided Safari
13 days • 6 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A unique mix of luxury and adventure in our original, and perhaps most varied, destination on a privately guided Namibian overland safari. Perfect for families, friends or couples travelling together.
Visiting Windhoek, Namib-Naukluft and 3 other areas
US$10,080 - US$12,850 per person
Monteiro's Hornbill Fly-in Safari
9 days • 5 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Stay in four of Namibia’s most famous environments on this fly-in safari. It would be hard to pack more variety into a trip of the same length.
Visiting Windhoek, NamibRand and 2 other areas
US$10,710 - US$14,240 per person
Pelican Fly & Drive Safari
10 days • 5 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A unique itinerary visiting the must-see highlights combining the adventure of a classic Namibian self-drive with the ease and spectacular views of a fly-in safari.
Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Damaraland and 3 other areas
US$7,090 - US$8,580 per person
Ruppell's Korhaan Fly-in Safari
9 days • 4 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Explore Namibia’s remotest wildernesses while staying at some of the most exclusive luxury camps in the country. This epic fly-in safari will deliver otherworldly landscapes, fascinating wildlife and genuine cultural experiences.
Visiting Damaraland, Skeleton Coast and 1 other area
US$10,480 - US$15,400 per person
Other trip ideas across Africa
Talk to us: help us to understand what you like and we can create a trip that will really suit you.
Hyena Safari
11 days • 4 locations
VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO LILONGWE AIRPORT
Mix relaxation and adventure on a safari combining the South Luangwa with Victoria Falls and the beaches of Lake Malawi. These three locations are among the most iconic in southern Africa.
US$9,490 - US$11,910 per person
Dik Dik Safari
12 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Combine safari with peace and relaxation on Zanzibar’s white-sand shores during this exploration of Tanzania. Stay in three high-quality sister camps within Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park before concluding with a stay on Michamvi Peninsula.
US$9,850 - US$15,130 per person
Regal Sunbird Fly-in Safari
12 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Experience the highlights of Tanzania with a safari in the country’s famous northern parks followed by historic Stone Town and the palm-fringed beaches of Zanzibar, staying in high-quality accommodation throughout.
US$9,850 - US$16,370 per person
Red Colobus Monkey Safari
11 days • 3 locations
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
This luxury holiday suggestion combines a wildlife safari in Ruaha National Park with a week on Zanzibar, exploring Stone Town’s narrow streets and relaxing on a palm-shaded beach.
US$6,230 - US$8,490 per person
Turaco Safari
12 days • 4 locations
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
This top-value holiday idea combines two safari areas with a week on the Indian Ocean island of Zanzibar. Photograph lions and elephants, then relax under the palms on a powder-sand beach.
US$5,730 - US$6,830 per person
Elephant Safari
10 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
This example of a mid-range Kenya safari and beach trip explores the wildlife of Tsavo West's volcanic plains and woodlands, Tsavo East's immense plains and the white-sand beaches and lush environment of Diani Beach.
US$5,670 - US$6,200 per person
Utaka Cichlid Safari
10 days • 3 locations
BLANTYRE AIRPORT TO LILONGWE AIRPORT
Explore two of Malawi's safari parks - Majete Wildlife Reserve and Liwonde National Park - before finishing your trip with some beach time: relaxing, snorkelling and sailing in Lake Malawi National Park.
US$4,340 - US$5,700 per person
Cape Grysbok Self-drive Safari
20 days • 8 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO CAPE TOWN AIRPORT
Explore Cape Town, Hermanus, Franschhoek and Namaqualand, amongst other memorable destinations, during this leisurely self-driven safari. Fine dining, varied activities and impressively comfortable lodges, estates and country houses await.
US$4,810 - US$7,240 per person
Cape Mountain Zebra Self-drive Safari
12 days • 4 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO CAPE TOWN AIRPORT
Fine dining, luxurious accommodation and a wide of range of leisurely activities make this a superbly comfortable self-driven safari. Visit the cosmopolitan Cape Town, tranquil coastal retreats, stylish wine farms and spectacularly peaceful nature reserves.
US$4,520 - US$7,630 per person
Leopard Safari
13 days • 4 locations
VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO CAPE TOWN AIRPORT
Victoria Falls, Botswana and Cape Town – a classic southern African itinerary combining luxury, wilderness, safari and culture. We can't think of a better way to spend two weeks.
US$13,430 - US$17,990 per person