Namibia is a land of contrasts. From endless red dunes to salty sea breezes on the coast, from lonely rock formations to herds of elephants suddenly crossing the road. The best way to explore this immense, untamed landscape? A road trip through Namibia in your own 4x4 rooftop tent, so you can actually sleep right in the middle of nature.
Our 11-day itinerary takes you from highlight to highlight, but also leaves room for spontaneous stops and hidden gems. From wildlife parks to starry skies, from moonlike landscapes to flamingos, these are our 10 must-do’s to make your Namibia road trip complete.
Top tips from our team
- Start your days early. Avoid the midday heat and enjoy the most stunning views, especially in the desert around Sossusvlei. Sunrises in Namibia are simply magical.
- Stay flexible with your itinerary. The best part of a self-drive in Namibia is the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you want. Leave room in your schedule for spontaneous discoveries.
- Stock up on food and water. Namibia has vast, remote regions. If you see a supermarket, it’s smart to grab some supplies before continuing your journey.
- Respect nature and wildlife. Keep your distance from wildlife, don’t leave trash behind, and only camp at official campsites.
1. Rhino drive or plateau hike in Waterberg National Park
It's not the most famous park, but it's often the first big “wow” of the trip.
The Waterberg is a vast red plateau that rises in the middle of the savanna. You can walk there for hours, encounter some baboons or antelopes, and most importantly: enjoy a 360° panorama view that’s absolutely stunning...
Want to kick off your trip with a real hike right from the start? This is where it begins.
2. Hidden treasures: Otjikoto, Otavi & Vingerklip
Who said there’s only sand in Namibia?
On the way to Etosha, take a detour to Lake Otjikoto, formed after the collapse of a limestone cave. The Germans dumped weapons and ammunition here during the war: today, it’s a peaceful lake with deep, mysterious waters.
For a surprising experience on your road trip through Namibia, visit the Otavi vineyards. Wine in Southern Africa? Yes! And Namibian wines are gaining attention. Try a cool glass of white wine in the shade of an acacia and discover a whole new side of Namibia.
And then there’s Vingerklip, a quirky 35-meter stone finger standing tall in the middle of the desert. Perfect for stopping, taking a short walk, breathing in, and slowing down.
3. Observe wildlife in Etosha from your own 4x4.
Etosha is the beating heart of wild Namibia.
You drive yourself through lunar landscapes, searching for animals that gather near waterholes: elephants, giraffes, springboks, zebras, lions (if you're lucky). And all of this, in complete freedom.
Add a night in a camp in the middle of the park, and listen to the hyenas or lions roaring in the distance as you fall asleep. Yes, it's real.
4. Dinner under the Milky Way at Ozongaka
In Ozongaka, a small community lodge nestled in Damaraland, there’s almost nothing. And that’s what makes it everything.
Imagine a small camp run by a local community, a wood fire, a delicious local dish… and a Milky Way that falls right on you. Here, the light comes from the sky.
It’s in places like this that conversations linger, and time truly slows down.
5. Feeling tiny in front of the rocks of Spitzkoppe.
Dome-shaped mountains rising from the desert as if placed there by magic.
The Spitzkoppe is a paradise for climbers, photographers, and anyone who just loves to relax and take in the views.
You can go for short walks, climb the rocks, or simply admire the natural arch at sunset.
At night? Tent on the roof, campfire, and a cinematic sky.
6. Heading to the moon: the Moon Landscape
The Moon Landscape is a piece of planet Mars just a few kilometers from Swakopmund. Deep canyons, sculpted ridges, colors that change every hour.
We often pass through quickly… and that's a mistake. Take a break, get out of the car, walk for a few minutes, and most importantly: look around. It's a desert, but it's anything but empty.
7. Get some fresh air (and sand) in Swakopmund
When the Atlantic Ocean meets the Namib Desert, you get Swakopmund, an unlikely and charming little colonial town.
You can eat pretzels, drink beers, go sandboarding, or just stroll along the beach while watching the pelicans.
It’s also the perfect time for a hot shower and a fresh fish restaurant before heading back inland.
8. Kayak with the seals in Walvis Bay
A morning kayaking, close to the water, surrounded by playful seals and flamingos pecking in the shallow waters.
In Walvis Bay, the ocean becomes calm, encounters are plentiful, and splashes are inevitable.
It’s gentle, wild, fun, and refreshing. A big bowl of salty nature.
9. Reach Sandwich Harbour, where the desert meets the ocean.
It's a place you often dream about before you go... and it exceeds all expectations once you're there.
Sandwich Harbour is a stretch of dunes that ends in the water. To get there: a good 4x4, an experienced guide, and the desire to dive into a postcard-like setting.
The view from the top, with the ocean on the left and the dunes on the right, is one of the most beautiful in Namibia. Maybe even in the world.
10. Get up (very) early to see Sossusvlei come alive.
This is THE postcard.
Sossusvlei is this deep red desert, crossed by giant dunes like Dune 45, and dotted with the Dead Vlei, a white basin filled with dead trees.
Arrive before sunrise, climb to the top of a dune… and wait. The light slowly rises, shadows stretch, and everything takes on a golden hue. A moment suspended.
Namibia off the beaten path
The best way to explore Namibia? Without a doubt: a 4x4 road trip with a rooftop tent. This option gives you the freedom to stop wherever you like, in the heart of the desert, by a waterhole in the savanna, or under a starry sky you'll never forget. This type of travel allows you not only to see the must-sees , but also to uncover hidden treasures that few travelers reach.
And if you're looking for a reliable, authentic itinerary tailored for adventure, check out our trip to Namibia. We've mapped the route, now it's your turn to experience it.
