Classic Adventure Tour

22 Days / 21 Nights
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Tour Overview

Destinations Icon
  • Windhoek
  • Kalahari
  • Fish River Canyon
  • Aus
  • Sossusvlei
  • Swakopmund
  • Twyfelfontein
  • Etosha South
  • Etosha East
  • Otavi Mountain Region
  • Waterberg
  • Windhoek

Designed for the most adventurous traveller, this 21-day self-drive itinerary absolutely includes most of Namibia’s highlights. Do you have a number of days to spare, interested in culture, a variety of landscapes as well as wildlife diversity all in one, than look no further, this itinerary offers all that and more. Enjoy the freedom of driving through most parts of the country, and experiencing Namibia and all its glory in just one tour. This is the ideal itinerary to really soak up the African sun, culture and landscapes, not to be missed!!

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Destination Nights Driving Time Distance
Windhoek 1 +/- 45 Minutes 50 km
Kalahari 2 +/- 3 Hours 270 km
Fish River Canyon 2 +/- 5-6 Hours 410 km
Aus 2 +/- 4 Hours 270 km
Sossusvlei 2 +/- 5 Hours 345 km
Swakopmund 2 +/- 5-6 Hours 370 km
Twyfelfontein 2 +/- 4 Hours 290 km
Etosha South 2 +/- 3.5-4 Hours 310 km
Etosha East 2 +/-3.5-6 Hours 160 km
Otavi Mountain Region 1 +/- 2-3 Hours 200 km
Waterberg 2 +/- 4 Hours 350 km
Windhoek 1 +/- 3 Hours 250 km
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Panoramic view of a dry savannah plain surrounding a lush green oasis with trees and water.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore the spectacular Sossusvlei and Deadvlei with some of the world's highest red sand dunes.

  • Stand on the edge of the Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon on Earth.

  • Discover the charming coastal town of Swakopmund, Namibia's adventure capital.

  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Twyfelfontein and its ancient rock engravings.

  • Experience unforgettable self-drive safaris through Etosha National Park.

  • Spot Namibia's incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes and cheetahs.

  • Visit the famous wild desert horses near Aus and explore the ghost town of Kolmanskop.

  • Travel through Namibia's diverse landscapes, from deserts and mountains to coastlines and savannahs.

  • Experience authentic Namibian culture, including a visit to the Damara Living Museum.

  • Enjoy the freedom of a 22-day self-drive adventure, discovering Namibia at your own pace.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Namibia, Windhoek

Rustic outdoor dining area at Joe's Beerhouse in Windhoek featuring thatched roofs, tropical palms, and a koi pond.
Historic Christuskirche Lutheran church framed by palm trees against a clear blue sky in Windhoek, Namibia.
Local craft market stall in Windhoek, Namibia, displaying handmade African jewelry, wooden carvings, and traditional souvenirs.
Independence Memorial Museum in Windhoek featuring the Sam Nujoma statue and grand outdoor stone staircase.
Male Greater Kudu with spiral horns standing in the middle of a gravel road on a Namibian safari.
HKI Airport to Windhoek:
Est. driving time: +/- 45 Minutes
Est. total km: 50 km
Situated in Central Namibia, the cosmopolitan city of Windhoek functions as the capital of the country. It is home to an international airport and a plethora of restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and accommodation options. The city is clean, safe and well-organised, with a colonial legacy that is reflected in its many German eateries and shops, and the widespread use of the German language. Windhoek has an interesting mix of historical architecture and modern buildings, many of which are worth a look, including the Alte Feste an old fort, the 1896 Christuskirche Christ Church, and the more contemporary Supreme Court.

Day Itinerary

Welcome to Namibia. Upon arrival at Windhoek International Airport, a Melbic driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel or our office in Windhoek. Vehicle handover depends on your arrival time, airport formalities, and transfer duration.
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Day 2-4: Kalahari Namibia

Open safari vehicle parked on red sand dunes at sunset with tourists enjoying a sundowner drink.
Two meerkats standing upright on sandy soil on lookout duty in the Kalahari Desert.
Golden grass landscape with scattered thorn trees under a clear blue sky in the Kalahari region of Namibia.
African giraffe standing among green thorn trees and bushes in the Namibian wilderness.
Solitary Gemsbok oryx with long spiral horns standing on arid desert ground during a Namibian wildlife safari.
Windhoek to Kalahari:
Est. driving time: +/- 3 Hours
Est. total km: 270 km
Spreading across Botswana, South Africa and Namibia, the Kalahari meaning 'the great thirst' is an exceptionally beautiful living desert. The landscape is characterised by a large semi-arid sandy savannah draped over a gently rolling inland sea of sand covering most of Botswana and large parts of Namibia and South Africa. It is also the last bastion of the indigenous San people with the modern world having enveloped all the other areas they once roamed. The Namibian portion is made up of red sands covered in thin, wispy, mostly golden grass and dotted with acacia trees and wide-ranging wildlife including gemsbok, impala, jackals and cheetah.

Day Itinerary

For your first morning in Namibia, enjoy a relaxed morning in Windhoek. Today you will travel to one of Namibia's most popular destinations, the Kalahari Desert. Enjoy a magnificent sundowner in this region as you enjoy a sip of some of Africa’s great wines.
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Day 4-6: Fish River Canyon

Dramatic sunset sky with pink and orange clouds glowing over the vast gorge of Fish River Canyon in Namibia.
Small klipspringer antelope perched on a rocky cliff edge overlooking the sweeping view of Fish River Canyon.
Hikers walking along a dusty trail through the rugged desert mountains of Fish River Canyon, Namibia.
Large resort swimming pool surrounded by rocky mountains and palm trees near Fish River Canyon in Namibia.
Solitary springbok standing in a rocky desert landscape with euphorbia bushes in southern Namibia.
Kalahri to Fish River Canyon:
Est. driving time: +/- 5-6 Hours
Est. total km: 410 km
Carving out an epic rocky wonderland in the south of Namibia, the Fish River has created Africa’s largest and the world’s second largest canyon. Hot, dry and stony, the Fish River Canyon measures a whopping 160 kilometres in length, at times 27 kilometres in width and 550 metres in depth. The awe-inspiring natural beauty of this ancient geological marvel draws visitors from around the globe. For those looking for adventure, the intense 85 kilometre Fish River Hiking Trail through1.5 billion years of geological history will definitely thrill avid adventure enthusiasts.

Day Itinerary

Early this morning, you will drive further south of the country, towards the second largest canyon in the world, the Fish River Canyon. On the way, make a stop at the Quiver Tree Forest which is located northeast outside Keetmanshoop.
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Day 6-8: Aus

Wide scenic view of rocky desert mountains and vast arid plains in the Aus region of Namibia.
Two feral wild horses nuzzling each other near Garub in the Namib Desert near Aus, Namibia.
Boats anchored in the blue harbor waters of Lüderitz, Namibia, with historic German colonial architecture and Felsenkirche on the hills.
Sand-filled room and wooden staircase inside an abandoned historic building in Kolmanskop ghost town, Namibia.
Male African ostrich standing on rocky desert ground with mountains in the background during a Namibian safari.
Fish River Canyon to Aus:
Est. driving time: +/- 4 Hours
Est. total km: 270 km
Perched above the plains of the Namib Desert and tucked away in the rocky Aus Mountains, the small village of Aus is located in the ǁKaras Region in southern Namibia. The arid surrounding landscape is known for its unique botanical diversity. Aus serves as an excellent base from which to explore the area and to view the main attraction: the feral horses of the Namib Desert, which run wild and free in the sparsely vegetated plains. Catch a glimpse of these wild desert-adapted creatures at the water trough at Garub just twenty kilometres away from the village.

Day Itinerary

Depart from the Fish River Canyon and head north towards settlement known as Aus. Located one and a half hours away is the old mining ghost town of Kolmanskop; join a guided tour through this interesting town. Further west is the coastal town of Lüderitz; enjoy a self-drive city tour to learn about this old harbour town.
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Day 8-10: Sossusvlei

Panoramic view of the iconic giant red sand dunes in Sossusvlei, Namib-Naukluft National Park
Gemsbok oryx standing on a red sand dune during sunset in the Namib Desert
Tour group hiking along the sharp ridge of Dune 45 in Sossusvlei, Namibia
Ancient dead camelthorn trees in Deadvlei clay pan with red dunes and sunrise in Namibia
Namaqua chameleon walking across desert sands on a Namibian wildlife safari tour
Aus to Sossusvlei:
Est. driving time: +/- 5 Hours
Est. total km: 345 km
Located in the scenic Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is where you will find the iconic red sand dunes of the Namib. The clear blue skies contrast with the giant red dunes to make this one of the most scenic natural wonders of Africa and a photographer's heaven. This awe-inspiring destination is possibly Namibia's premier attraction, with its unique dunes rising to almost 400 metres-some of the highest in the world. These iconic dunes come alive in morning and evening light and draw photography enthusiasts from around the globe. Sossusvlei is home to a variety desert wildlife including Oryx, springbok, ostrich and a variety of reptiles. Visitors can climb 'Big Daddy', one of Sossusvlei’s tallest (highest) dunes; explore Deadvlei, a white, salt, claypan dotted with ancient trees.

Day Itinerary

From Aus, you will drive to the Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world. Enjoy the drive towards the sea of some of the highest dunes in the world. Your destination is situated close to the Sossusvlei, take part in a self-drive to the Sossusvlei early in the morning and enjoy sunrise and breakfast in the dunes.
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Day 10-11: Swakopmund

Aerial view of the Swakopmund jetty extending into the Atlantic Ocean along the Namibian coastline
Two dolphins breaching the ocean surface on a marine wildlife tour near Swakopmund
Tourists riding ATVs on a quad biking adventure through the sand dunes near Swakopmund
Aerial view of the iconic red and white Swakopmund Lighthouse surrounded by palm trees in Namibia
Tourists on a marine boat cruise watching seals swim in the ocean waves off Swakopmund
Sossusvlei to Swakopmund:
Est. driving time: +/- 5-6 Hours
Est. total km: 370 km
Set along Namibia's spectacularly scenic coast, the seaside town of Swakopmund is known for its wide-open avenues, colonial architecture, and is surrounded by otherworldly desert terrain. Founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South West Africa, Swakopmund has a distinctive German colonial architecture. Now a seaside resort town, Swakopmund is the capital of the Skeleton Coast tourism area and has plenty to keep visitors happy. The quirky mix of German and Namibian influences, adventure options, laidback atmosphere and cool sea breeze make it very popular Namibian destination. Visitors can look forward to a number of exciting activities including: quad biking, horse riding, paragliding, fishing, sightseeing and fascinating desert tours.

Day Itinerary

You will make your way from the Namib Desert towards the coastal city of Swakopmund. This scenic route will take you meandering through the desert. Along the way, you will cross the Tropic of Capricorn and make sure to take a rest in the Solitaire town and take a taste of their marvellous Apple pies. Drive through the harbour town of Walvis before you make your way to Swakopmund.
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Day 12-14: Damaraland - Twyfelfontein

The iconic Lions Mouth sandstone rock arch near Twyfelfontein in Damaraland Namibia
Rare desert-adapted elephant walking across the arid gravel plains of Damaraland
Local guide pointing to ancient San rock engravings at Twyfelfontein UNESCO site in Damaraland
Hartmanns mountain zebra standing on a rocky hillside during a Damaraland wildlife safari
Rugged red rock formations and arid desert plains in the Damaraland region of Namibia
Swakopmund to Damaraland:
Est. driving time: +/- 4 Hours
Est. total km: 290 km
Set in the Kunene Region of north-western Namibia, Twyfelfontein is a spectacularly scenic area, featuring one of the largest and most important concentrations of rock art in Africa. The name ‘Twyfelfontein’ translates to ‘Fountain of Doubt’, which refers to the perennial spring situated in the impressive Huab valley flanked by the slopes of a sandstone table mountain. It was this spring that attracted Stone Age hunters over six thousand years ago, and it was during this time that the extensive group of rock engravings and paintings were produced. Visitors can look forward to exploring over thirty different sites of these sacred records of ritual practices relating to traditional hunter-gatherer communities.

Day Itinerary

After check-out, depart the coast and drive inland towards Damaraland. This area is known for well-known attractions such as: Twyfelfontein Rock Paintings, the Organ Pipes, Burnt Mountain and the Petrified Forest. Also make sure to visit the Damara living museum and be in awe of the traditions and customs of this fascinating local tribe.
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Day 14-15: Etosha National Park - South

Scenic view of a natural waterhole with animals drinking under a clear sky in Etosha National Park
A black rhino walking through the arid bushveld during a safari in Etosha
Aerial view of a 4x4 safari vehicle driving along an open gravel road across the Etosha plains
A majestic male lion standing on a dirt road during a game drive in Etosha National Park
African elephant, springboks, and zebras gathering at a waterhole in Etosha National Park
Damaraland to Etosha South:
Est. driving time: +/- 3.5-4 Hours
Est. total km: 310 km
Etosha South makes up the southern region of the Etosha National Park paradise. The national park can be accessed via the southern entrance at Andersson’s Gate. Visitors can visit a variety of waterholes and catch a glimpse of a wide range of wildlife such as: lion, giraffe, elephant, white and black rhino, and a gathering of plains game. Popular activities include: guided / self-drive game drives, or watch the sunset over this magnificent landscape.

Day Itinerary

From Damaraland, head to the greatest wildlife sanctuary in Namibia, Etosha National Park. Be prepared for the abundance of wildlife roaming around as they visit the various waterholes in search of water. Best times to view animals are early mornings and later afternoons when the heat is not too intense for you and the animals. Take part in guided game drives or alternatively, you are welcome to do your own self-drive around the park at your own pace and viewing pleasure.
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Day 16-17: Etosha National Park - East

An Angolan giraffe standing among sparse acacia bushes during a Namibian safari tour
Large herd of zebras, ostriches, and springboks gathering in the dusty plains of Etosha Salt Pan
An African cheetah sitting attentively on the open ground during an Etosha safari game drive
Herd of zebras and springboks drinking water at a natural waterhole on a Namibian safari
Tourists on a guided open safari vehicle watching a herd of wild African elephants cross the path
Etosha South to Etosha East:
Est. driving time: +/- 3.5-6 Hours (depending on stops enroute)
Est. total km: 160 km
Etosha East is a protected sanctuary in the eastern part of the world-renowned Etosha National Park, known as one of the most accessible game reserves in Southern Africa. Etosha East boasts vast open plains scattered with semi-arid savannah grasslands dotted with watering holes and secluded bush camps. An impressive 5000-square-kilometre Etosha salt pan makes up a large area of the eastern side of the park and can even be seen from space. This remote area teems with abundant wildlife such as lions, elephants, black rhinos and giraffes, as well as a variety of birdlife featuring flamingos, ostriches, eagles, hornbills, and owls.

Day Itinerary

Enjoy some breakfast and drive from the southern part of the park towards the eastern side of the national park. The eastern side has a reputation of having the best views of wildlife. Please note: the park has a speed limit of 60km/hour.
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Day 18: Otavi Mountain Region

Panoramic view of the rocky Otavi Mountains and dry valley landscape in Namibia
Majestic male Greater Kudu with spiral horns standing in dry grass on a Namibian safari
Deep turquoise water of Lake Otjikoto sinkhole surrounded by steep limestone cliffs near Otavi
Warthog standing by a stone waterhole in the dry reddish terrain of Otavi Namibia
Large Common Eland antelope standing in front of lush green trees during a safari in Otavi Namibia
Etosha to Otavi:
Est. driving time: +/- 2-3 Hours
Est. total km: 200 km
Situated in the Otjozondjupa Province, in the centre of what is known as the ‘Golden Triangle’, the towering Otavi Mountains are surrounded by the Northern Namibian towns of Otavi, Tsumeb, and Grootfontein, which are roughly 60 kilometres equidistant from each other. The landscape features golden maize plantations, spectacular dolomite mountains, and underground lakes. Visitors to this spectacular region can look forward to a variety of activities including: visiting the Hoba Meteorite, the largest ‘space object’ on earth and a national monument; explore Dragon’s Breath Cave which holds world’s largest underground lake; or viewing the bottomless ‘sinkhole’ Lake - Otjikoto, boasting emerald green water is one of two permanent lakes in Namibia.

Day Itinerary

Enjoy your last morning in Etosha; perhaps enjoy another guided or self-drive game drive through the park before driving to the Otavi Mountain region.
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Day 19-21: Waterberg National Park

Panoramic view from the top of Waterberg Plateau overlooking the expansive green plains below
A rare roan antelope standing in high grass during a wildlife safari in Waterberg Namibia
Dramatic red sandstone cliffs rising above lush green vegetation at Waterberg Plateau National Park
Hikers trekking up a rocky forest trail towards the red cliffs of Waterberg Plateau
Tourists on a guided horseback riding safari observing a wild rhino in Waterberg Namibia
Otavi to Waterberg:
Est. driving time: +/- 4 Hours
Est. total km: 350 km
The Waterberg Region incorporates the Waterberg Plateau National Park and the farming districts from Outjo and Otjiwarongo in the west to Grootfontein and Tsumeb in the east. There are about 25 species of mammals including black & white rhino, Cape buffalo, giraffe, kudu, impala, warthog, tsessebe, sable and roan antelope and blue wildebeest present in this region. Sightings of the elusive leopard prowling along the cliffs, cheetah, caracal, black-backed and side-striped jackals have been seen on the plateau or in then savannah below.

Day Itinerary

After your last morning in Otavi Mountain Region, head off to the next destination in Namibia. Located in the country’s central Waterberg region. This area is well known for its Rhino population. Along the way are various cheetah & leopard sanctuaries such as: Cheetah Conservation Fund & AfriCat foundation.
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Day 21: Windhoek

A long paved highway stretching through a grassy landscape toward two distinct pointed mountains in the background.
A close-up side view of a white rhinoceros standing on dry ground under a clear blue sky.
A group of hikers walking down a dirt path on a sunny mountain ridge with scenic views of rolling hills.
A large gemsbok oryx standing in dry, tall yellow grass with distant blue mountains.
An elevated view of a vast grassy savannah scattered with low trees during a warm sunset.
Waterberg to Windhoek:
Est. driving time: +/- 3 Hours
Est. total km: 250 km
The region surrounding Windhoek offers a tranquil introduction to—or farewell from—Namibia. Set amidst rolling hills, acacia-dotted plains and abundant wildlife, it provides a peaceful bush experience just a short distance from the capital city. Whether enjoying a final game drive, relaxing by the lodge or taking in one last African sunset, this region offers the perfect ending to an unforgettable self-drive journey.

Day Itinerary

After a relaxed morning, return to the Windhoek region for your final overnight stay in Namibia, where you can relax and enjoy one last evening in the African bush.
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Day 22: Departure

Day Itinerary

Enjoy a relaxed morning before returning your rental vehicle to Melbic. Following the vehicle inspection, you will be transferred to Hosea Kutako International Airport, marking the end of your unforgettable Namibian adventure.

What’s Included

  • Accommodations / campsites as per itinerary
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Planning
  • Advising
  • Bookings
  • 24/7 backup during your trip

What’s Not Included

  • Additional Meals
  • Entrance fees into parks and sightseeing spots
  • Flights and Visas
  • Activities – can be arranged

Need Help or Have Questions?

Driven by passion, we go above and beyond to deliver an unforgettable experience and ensure you receive the very best service.

Frequently Asked Questions
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Need Help or Have Questions?

Driven by passion, we go above and beyond to deliver an unforgettable experience and ensure you receive the very best service.

Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Us

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