Discover Kruger & Namibia

From savanna to desert to sea, combine the wild wonders of South Africa and Namibia in one unforgettable adventure. Set out in search of the legendary "big five" in a private reserve alongside a National Geographic–funded researcher, explore the surreal crimson desertscapes of the Namib —the oldest desert on Earth—and keep your eyes peeled for endangered species in the grasslands of Etosha National Park. Cap off your journey with a visit to the Cheetah Conservation Fund, founded by a National Geographic Grantee.

Dates

Trip Overview
Trip Overview

Accommodation
Family run lodge (2 nts), hotel/lodge (11 nt), comfortable tent or chalets (2 nts)
Checklist
Cold Weather:
- Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
- Scarf
- Warm gloves
- Warm hat
- Warm layers

Documents:
- Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
- Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
- Passport (required) (With photocopies)
- Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
- Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
- Binoculars (optional)
- Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
- Cash, credit and debit cards
- Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
- Ear plugs
- First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
- Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
- Fleece top/sweater
- Footwear
- Hat
- Locks for bags
- Long pants/jeans
- Moneybelt
- Outlet adapter
- Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
- Reusable water bottle
- Shirts/t-shirts
- Sleepwear
- Small travel towel
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
- Watch and alarm clock
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
- Hand sanitizer (required)
- Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
- Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
- Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test

Smart Dress:
- Smart outfit (For evenings out)

Warm Weather:
- Sandals/flip-flops
- Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
- Sun hat/bandana
- Swimwear

Note: Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters (May to October) can be really cold and summers will be really hot. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives.
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer), local guides/rangers.
Group Size Notes
Max 14, avg 12.
Highlights
Take a sunrise safari drive through Kruger National Park, ride through the dramatic landscapes of Namibia's coastal deserts, meet a researcher from the Carnivore Conservation Programme, discover the scenery of South Africa's Panorama Route,
International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Introduction
From savanna to desert to sea, combine the wild wonders of South Africa and Namibia in one unforgettable adventure. Set out in search of the legendary "big five" in a private reserve alongside a National Geographic–funded researcher, explore the surreal crimson desertscapes of the Namib —the oldest desert on Earth—and keep your eyes peeled for endangered species in the grasslands of Etosha National Park. Cap off your journey with a visit to the Cheetah Conservation Fund, founded by a National Geographic Grantee.
Meal Budget
Allow USD240-315 for meals not included.
Meals Included
15 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 12 dinners
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Optional Activities
Johannesburg
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos

Swakopmund
- Fat Tire Bike Tours (450NAD per person)
- Sandboarding in the Namib Desert (700NAD per person)
- Sea Kayaking (800NAD per person)

Packing Note
Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters (May to October) can be really cold and summers will be really hot. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives.
Start / Finish
Johannesburg to Windhoek
Transport
Air-conditioned touring vehicle, 4x4, open safari vehicle, plane, walking.
What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Carnivore Conservation Experience, Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Mondesa Township Walk, Swakopmund
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Cheetah Conservation Experience, Otjiwarongo
Your Foodie Moment: Traditional South Africa Braai (Barbecue), Johannesburg. Arrival transfer. Panorama Route scenic drive. Kruger National Park and private nature reserve wildlife safari drives in open vehicles. Sossusvlei desert excursion. Desert excursion with a local. View the Twyfelfontein ancient petroglyphs. Full-day open-vehicle wildlife safari drive in Etosha. Internal flight. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Itinerary

Route Overview

Day 1: Johannesburg
Arrive at any time and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a traditional South African braai (barbecue) for dinner tonight.
TRANSPORT
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
ACTIVITY
The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
ACTIVITY
Enjoy a spread of grilled meats, vegetables and homemade salads, and talk with your friendly hosts about life in South Africa.
ACCOMMODATION
Nkanga Lodge
Day 2: Johannesburg/Greater Kruger Area
Set out towards Kruger National Park via the magnificent Panorama Route, one of the world’s most picturesque drives. Make stops at the dramatic Blyde River Canyon and Bourke's Luck Potholes, and take in panoramic views of the forest-covered valley from the God's Window viewpoint. Continue to our lodge near Kruger National park, savour a delicious South African Dinner in this picturesque location.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Enjoy a scenic drive along the famed Panorama Route. You’ll see magnificent mountains, panoramic passes, valleys, and waterfalls. There will also be stops at Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and God's Window.
ACCOMMODATION
Umbhaba Eco Lodge
Day 3: Kruger National Park
Rise early and climb aboard an open jeep for a full-day safari in Kruger National Park—home to an extraordinary array of large mammals. Spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and perhaps elusive leopards as we explore this breathtaking wilderness of savanna and scrubland. Return to our lodge in the evening, where you can take some time to relax and enjoy the nocturnal sounds of the bush.
ACTIVITY
Hop in a 4x4 safari vehicle and get yourself one step closer to the surrounding nature. Be ready to spot elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, zebras, and many other species in this impressive South African national park.
ACCOMMODATION
Umbhaba Eco Lodge
Day 4: Greater Kruger Area/Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Travel to the Karongwe Private Game Reserve, a pristine wildlife sanctuary located in the Greater Kruger area. Meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Metapopulation Project—a program funded in part by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative—and learn about efforts to protect the region’s cheetahs and other carnivores. The researcher then joins us for a wildlife-viewing excursion through the reserve.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust's Cheetah Metapopulation Project, a project managed by National Geographic grantee Vincent van der Merwe. A member of Vincent's team will give a talk about cheetahs in South Africa and the important research CMP is doing. We will also discuss conservation within parks and reserves in South Africa and National Geographic's Big Cats Initiative. You will then be accompanied by the researcher on a wildlife safari drive to give you more insight into cheetahs and other carnivores.
ACCOMMODATION
Karongwe Private Game Reserve - Lodges
Day 5: Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Spend the day exploring Karongwe on morning and afternoon safaris with our local guides. Search for Africa's famed "big five" as we drive through the shrublands of the bushveld. Back at camp, relax on deck or take a walk around the grounds.
ACTIVITY
Jump into a safari 4x4 and keep your eyes open for fantastic wildlife encounters. Wildlife safari drives are conducted with qualified wildlife rangers and local expert trackers; both will share their vast experience of the African bush.
FREE_TIME
Relax and enjoy some down time between wildlife safari drives.
ACCOMMODATION
Karongwe Private Game Reserve - Lodges
Day 6: Karongwe Private Game Reserve/Johannesburg
Embark on one last safari this morning, keeping a lookout for Karongwe’s iconic inhabitants. Then head back to the city, where you’ll enjoy dinner in our family run lodge.
ACTIVITY
Jump into a safari 4x4 and keep your eyes open for fantastic wildlife encounters. Wildlife safari drives are conducted with qualified wildlife rangers and local expert trackers; both will share their vast experience of the African bush.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION
Nkanga Lodge
Day 7: Johannesburg/Windhoek
Fly to Windhoek and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy free time to explore the Namibian capital this afternoon.
TRANSPORT
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
ACCOMMODATION
Windhoek Country Club Resort
Day 8: Windhoek/Sesriem
Set off from the Namibian capital towards Sesriem, the gateway to jaw-dropping Namib-Naukluft National Park. Drive past red-hued desertscapes, stark camel thorn trees, and dramatic curved dunes while keeping an eye out for the astonishing creatures that call these arid lands home—the oryx, springbok, jackal, hyena, and more. Settle in to our lodge and relax poolside, watching a fiery crimson sunset over the desert.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION
Sossusvlei Lodge
Day 9: Sesriem
Embark on a thrilling excursion into one of Africa’s largest national parks. Explore the Namib desert, the oldest desert in the world; and venture to the massive dunes at Sossusvlei and the white clay pan of Deadvlei. Capture dramatic images of dead camel thorn trees against a backdrop of orange dunes and a crisp blue sky. Then visit the Sesriem Canyon, a natural gorge carved out by the Tsauchab River over millions of years.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT
Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
ACTIVITY
This area is famous for its high, red sand dunes. This clay and salt pan is surrounded by the dunes, making it a spectacularly beautiful sight with a remote and isolated feel.
ACTIVITY
Enjoy a short stop at Sesriem Canyon, a small canyon typical of the area. The Tsauchab River flows through the canyon every five to ten years, and this creates the nearby salt and clay pan of Sossusvlei.
ACCOMMODATION
Sossusvlei Lodge
Day 10: Sesriem/Swakopmund
Continue by road through changing desert landscapes towards the coastal city of Swakopmund. Look out for roaming zebra, kudu, springbok, and oryx on the way, and take a break in the quirky town of Solitaire before heading into the countryside. Here, we meet a local for a 4x4 drive through the desert, learning about the survival strategies of bushmen who lived in this inhospitable area thousands of years ago. We also search for the smaller wildlife that has managed to survive here, such as snakes, geckos, spiders, and an array of insects.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Hop into a 4x4 vehicle and set out into the desert. An expert guide will point out signs of animal life and emphasize survival in the harsh desert landscape for both humans and animals.
ACCOMMODATION
Hansa Hotel
Day 11: Swakopmund
Enjoy a free morning in Swakopmund, getting a taste of the town’s unique Afro-German culture; or opt for sandboarding in the Namib desert. This afternoon, take a tour of Mondesa township with a local guide, learning about its people and history. Visit the local market for an introduction to traditional foods such as wild spinach, mopane worms, and dried sardines or kapenta. Stop by an arts and crafts shop; chat with the locals; and round off the day with dinner and a performance at a cozy family-run establishment.
FREE_TIME
Enjoy a free morning in the historic coastal town of Swakopmund.
ACTIVITY
Visit the community of Mondesa Township with an expert resident guide. Learn about its daily life, history and traditions through an immersive experience with the welcoming people that live here. Visit its lively market for an introduction to traditional foods like wild spinach, mopane worms, and dried kapenta fish. Also visit an arts-and-crafts shop that helps train the township’s youth in traditional crafts. Drop by a shebeen (tavern) to enjoy a favourite drink, and meet some local residents. Finally, continue on to a nearby family run establishment for dinner and local entertainment.
ACCOMMODATION
Hansa Hotel
Day 12: Swakopmund/Damaraland
Make your way to Twyfelfontein—Namibia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site—to see some of Africa’s largest concentrations of petroglyphs. Marvel at these remarkable engravings, carved by prehistoric hunter-gatherers and depicting rhinos, elephants, and ostriches, as well as human and animal footprints. Then continue to our lodge on the heart of the Damaraland area. Enjoy some free time to swim in the pool or admire a colourful sunset from the deck.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Step back in time to see prehistoric rock engravings made during the early Stone Age. Their exact origin is uncertain, but these works depicting animals and hunters are probably the work of Bushmen or Nama artists estimated to have lived near Twyfelfontein at least 5,000 years ago. Marvel at the more than 2,500 rock carvings and paintings and understand why this is Namibia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION
Damara Mopane Lodge
Day 13: Damaraland/Etosha National Park Area
Enjoy a relaxed morning at our lodge and explore the rich sandstone treasure of Damaraland. In the afternoon, travel towards Etosha National Park, arguably Namibia’s most spectacular wildlife sanctuary. Settle into our lodge, located outside of the park.
FREE_TIME
Enjoy a free morning at the lodge, and opt for a self-guided walk in the property.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION
Taleni Etosha Village
Day 14: Etosha National Park Area
Spend a full day on safari in Etosha National Park, where open grasslands converge on a massive salt pan. Etosha harbours some of the largest populations of lions, elephants, and other endangered species, so keep your camera on the ready as you explore in your open vehicle. Enjoy lunch at one of the park’s rest areas, where you can also take a swim; and sit back and watch all manner of creatures—including hundreds of species of birds—flock to the nearby watering hole.
ACTIVITY
Set off in an open 4x4 safari vehicle with a naturalist guide in search of the stunning wildlife in the park. Wildlife often come to the many watering holes to drink, so keep your eyes peeled for many animals on the move.
ACCOMMODATION
Taleni Etosha Village
Day 15: Etosha National Park Area/Windhoek
After breakfast, visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund, a global research and education center founded by National Geographic Grantee Dr Laurie Marker. Tour the facility to learn about the important conservation and community outreach work they do to protect the world’s fastest land animal, and enjoy a talk by one of the researchers. Then head out on a drive through the grounds to meet some of the center’s rescued and rehabilitated cheetahs. Continue to Windhoek for our final evening.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
The Cheetah Conservation Fund is a global field research and education facility founded by Dr. Laurie Marker whose research has been supported by National Geographic. Tour the centre and learn about the important conservation and community outreach work they perform as one of the world’s leading organizations dedicated to saving the cheetah in the wild. One of the program’s researchers will give us a lecture before we head out on a cheetah drive to view some of these incredible creatures up close in their natural habitat. Conclude the experience by sitting down as a group for lunch on the veranda that overlooks the magnificent Waterberg Plateau.
ACCOMMODATION
Windhoek Country Club Resort
Day 16: Windhoek
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

Pricing & Availability

Date From	Date To	Price
13 July 2023	28 July 2023	£5529
20 July 2023	04 August 2023	£5529
22 July 2023	06 August 2023	£5529
27 July 2023	11 August 2023	£5529

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