Introduction to Overlanding in Namibia: A Journey Through Timeless Landscapes
Namibia, with its dramatic desert landscapes, rugged coastlines, and abundant wildlife, is a paradise for overlanders seeking adventure and solitude. This stunning country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore off the beaten path. Our guide to the top overlanding destinations in Namibia will help you plan an unforgettable trip through this captivating land.
Why Visit Namibia?
Namibia is renowned for its diverse and breathtaking scenery, from the towering dunes of the Namib Desert to the eerie beauty of the Skeleton Coast and the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park. This country is a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and thrill-seekers alike. With vast, open spaces and a low population density, Namibia offers a sense of freedom and adventure that is hard to find elsewhere.
What to Expect
Overlanding in Namibia is an adventure of epic proportions. You’ll traverse vast deserts, navigate rugged mountains, and camp under star-filled skies. Expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and cheetahs, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of remote landscapes. Namibia’s well-maintained roads and numerous campsites make it an accessible destination for overlanders, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Namibia enjoys a dry climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit for wildlife viewing is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, water sources are limited, and animals congregate around waterholes, making them easier to spot. The temperatures are also more comfortable for camping and outdoor activities. The wet season, from November to April, transforms the landscapes with lush vegetation and vibrant colors, offering a different but equally captivating experience.
Planning Your Overlanding Adventure
Our guide provides a curated list of the best overlanding spots in Namibia, complete with essential details such as location coordinates, accommodation options, pricing, and activities. Whether you’re dreaming of the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, or the remote beauty of the Skeleton Coast, this list will help you plan the ultimate adventure.
Prepare to embark on a journey through one of Africa’s most beautiful and diverse countries. Namibia’s timeless landscapes and abundant wildlife await you, promising an adventure filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking sights.
Helpful links:
Here is a list of the border posts and all their locations and operating hours, as well as the conditions of entry for your vehicle, and more, when entering from South Africa.
Here is a Google map with all the locations pinned for each reference.
1. Etosha National Park – Okaukuejo Camp
Okaukuejo Camp is renowned for its floodlit waterhole, offering a unique opportunity to see wildlife like elephants, rhinos, and lions at night. It serves as the administrative hub for Etosha National Park.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -19.1817, 15.9171
- Nearest Town/City: Okaukuejo
Capacity: Multiple campsites and chalets.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R735 per night (approx. $40)
- Chalets: R3670 per night (approx. $200)
Reviews: “An unforgettable experience, especially the nightly waterhole visits.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Phone: +264 61 285 7200
- Email: enquiry@etoshanationalpark.org
- Website: Etosha National Park
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, swimming pool, restaurant.
- Activities: Game drives, bird watching, guided tours.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
2. Namib Desert – Sesriem Campsite
Located near the entrance to Sossusvlei, Sesriem Campsite is ideal for exploring the Namib Desert’s iconic dunes. The campsite offers basic amenities and stunning views of the desert landscape.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -24.4861, 15.8024
- Nearest Town/City: Sesriem
Capacity: Multiple campsites.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R459 per night (approx. $25)
Reviews: “Great location for visiting Sossusvlei and Deadvlei.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Phone: +264 61 285 7200
- Reservations: https://www.sossusvlei.org/reservations/
- Website: https://www.sossusvlei.org/
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, basic shop.
- Activities: Dune climbing, desert hikes.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
3. Skeleton Coast – Terrace Bay Camp
Terrace Bay Camp is located within the Skeleton Coast National Park, offering a rugged coastal experience. This remote campsite is perfect for those looking to explore the desolate beauty of the Skeleton Coast.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -20.0975, 13.0355
- Nearest Town/City: Terrace Bay
Capacity: Multiple campsites and cabins.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R918 per night (approx. $50)
Reviews: “An incredible experience, feels like the edge of the world.” – Expert Africa
Contact:
- Phone: +264 64 540 800
- Website: https://etoshanationalpark.co.za/accommodation/terrace-bay-namibia/
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Basic amenities, restaurant, bar.
- Activities: Fishing, bird watching, hiking.
- Accessibility: Accessible by 4WD vehicle.
4. Kalahari Desert – Kalahari Anib Campsite
Kalahari Anib Campsite is situated in the heart of the Kalahari Desert, offering a beautiful setting amidst red dunes. The campsite provides basic facilities and is ideal for a desert adventure.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -24.5828, 18.0982
- Nearest Town/City: Mariental
Capacity: Multiple campsites.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R459 per night (approx. $25)
Reviews: “Stunning location with great desert views.” – Booking.com
Contact:
- Phone: +264 63 240 448
- Website: https://www.info-namibia.com/accommodation/kalahari/kalahari-anib-lodge
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, restaurant.
- Activities: Game drives, bush walks.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
5. Damaraland – Mowani Mountain Camp
Mowani Mountain Camp is located in the rugged region of Damaraland, offering breathtaking views and close proximity to the Twyfelfontein rock engravings. This camp is ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -20.5667, 14.4000
- Nearest Town/City: Khorixas
Capacity: Several campsites and luxury tents.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R735 per night (approx. $40)
Reviews: “Beautiful scenery and unique rock formations.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Phone: +264 61 228 104
- Email: res@chiwani.com
- Website: Mowani Mountain Camp
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, restaurant.
- Activities: Guided walks, nature drives.
- Accessibility: Accessible by 4WD vehicle.
6. Fish River Canyon – Hobas Campsite
Hobas Campsite is the main camping site for those wanting to explore the Fish River Canyon. It offers basic amenities and is the starting point for the famous Fish River Canyon hike.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -27.6200, 17.5833
- Nearest Town/City: Karasburg
Capacity: Multiple campsites.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R459 per night (approx. $25)
Reviews: “Great base for hiking the Fish River Canyon.” – Booking.com
Contact:
- Phone: +264 61 285 7200
- Website: https://namibianwildliferesorts.com/accommodation/hobas-campsite/
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, small shop.
- Activities: Hiking, canyon tours.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
7. Caprivi Strip – Ngepi Camp
Ngepi Camp is located in the lush Caprivi Strip, offering unique treehouses and campsites along the Okavango River. Known for its quirky atmosphere and eco-friendly initiatives, it’s perfect for adventurous travelers.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -18.1203, 21.6644
- Nearest Town/City: Divundu
Capacity: Several treehouses and campsites.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R367 per night (approx. $20)
Reviews: “A magical place with a fun, laid-back vibe.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Phone: +264 66 259 903
- Email: reservations@ngepicamp.com
- Website: Ngepi Camp
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, restaurant, bar.
- Activities: Boat trips, fishing, bird watching.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
8. Swakopmund – Alte Brücke Resort
Alte Brücke Resort offers a mix of chalets and campsites just outside Swakopmund, providing easy access to the city’s attractions and the surrounding desert landscapes.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -22.6694, 14.5336
- Nearest Town/City: Swakopmund
Capacity: Multiple campsites and chalets.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R459 per night (approx. $25)
Reviews: “Convenient location with great facilities.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Phone: +264 64 404 918
- Email: reservations@altebrucke.com
- Website: Alte Brücke Resort
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, restaurant, bar.
- Activities: Desert tours, quad biking, sandboarding.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
9. Epupa Falls Campsite
Epupa Falls Campsite is located along the Kunene River and offers breathtaking views of the Epupa Falls. This remote and peaceful campsite is perfect for adventurous travelers looking to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the region. The campsite provides a unique opportunity to visit the Himba people and experience their traditional lifestyle.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -17.0167, 13.2500
- Nearest Town/City: Opuwo
Capacity: Multiple campsites and wooden cabins.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R367 per night (approx. $20)
Reviews: “Fantastic place for camping with stunning views of the falls and river.” – Stingy Nomads
Contact:
- Phone: +264 65 685 022
- Email: marketing@epupafallslodge.com
- Website: Epupa Falls Lodge and Campsite
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Hot water showers, flushing toilets, electricity, restaurant/bar, and Wi-Fi.
- Activities: Hiking along the river, visiting Himba villages, boat trips.
- Accessibility: Accessible by 4WD vehicle.
10. Hoada Campsite
Hoada Campsite is situated among large granite boulders in Damaraland, providing a beautiful and unique camping experience. The campsite offers open-air showers, eco-friendly facilities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a great spot for spotting desert-adapted elephants and other wildlife.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -19.5016, 13.7901
- Nearest Town/City: Kamanjab
Capacity: Multiple campsites.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R459 per night (approx. $25)
Reviews: “Beautiful campsite with excellent facilities and stunning views.” – Stories by Valerie
Contact:
- Phone: +264 67 687 022
- Email: res4@journeysnamibia.com
- Website: Hoada Campsite
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Open-air showers, toilets, kitchen, swimming pool, sunset bar.
- Activities: Nature walks, sunset drives, star gazing.
- Accessibility: Accessible by 4WD vehicle.
11. Kolmanskop
Kolmanskop is a ghost town in the Namib Desert, famous for its well-preserved buildings and eerie atmosphere. Once a thriving diamond mining town, Kolmanskop is now a popular tourist destination offering guided tours that provide insight into the town’s history and the diamond rush era.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -26.7046, 15.2429
- Nearest Town/City: Lüderitz
Capacity: Day visits only; no camping facilities.
Pricing:
- Entrance fee: NAD 100 (approx. $6)
Reviews: “A fascinating glimpse into Namibia’s diamond mining past.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Online Info : Search link
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Guided tours, museum, café.
- Activities: Photography, historical tours.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
12. Lüderitz
Lüderitz is a coastal town known for its unique blend of German colonial architecture and natural beauty. The town offers a range of activities, including boat tours to see seals and penguins, visits to historic sites, and scenic drives along the rugged coastline.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -26.6483, 15.1543
Capacity: Multiple guesthouses, lodges, and campsites nearby.
Pricing:
- Campsites: R459 per night (approx. $25)
Reviews: “Charming town with beautiful architecture and stunning coastal views.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Website: Lüderitz Tourism
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restaurants, shops, accommodations.
- Activities: Boat tours, historical tours, hiking.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
13. Quiver Tree Forest
The Quiver Tree Forest is located near Keetmanshoop and is home to a large number of quiver trees (Aloe dichotoma). These unique and striking trees are named for the San people’s use of their branches to make quivers for arrows. The forest is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, making it a favorite spot for photographers.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -26.5405, 18.2136
- Nearest Town/City: Keetmanshoop
Capacity: Day visits and nearby campsites.
Pricing:
- Entrance fee: NAD 100 (approx. $6)
Reviews: “A magical place with surreal landscapes.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Phone: +264 81 696 5117
- Email: quiver@africaonline.com.na
- Website: https://www.quivertreeforest.com/
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, picnic areas.
- Activities: Photography, nature walks.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
14. Giant’s Playground
Giant’s Playground, located near the Quiver Tree Forest, is a fascinating geological formation where large dolerite boulders are stacked on top of each other, creating the appearance of a giant’s play area. This natural wonder is perfect for exploring and photographing, and it offers a unique glimpse into Namibia’s geological history.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -26.4827, 18.2051
- Nearest Town/City: Keetmanshoop
Capacity: Day visits and nearby campsites.
Pricing:
- Entrance fee: NAD 100 (approx. $6)
Reviews: “A striking and unusual landscape that’s great for exploring.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Website: Giant’s Playground
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Restrooms, picnic areas.
- Activities: Hiking, photography.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
15. Twyfelfontein or /Ui-//aes
Twyfelfontein, also known as /Ui-//aes, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its extensive collection of ancient rock engravings. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Namibia’s indigenous peoples.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -20.5667, 14.3833
- Nearest Town/City: Khorixas
Capacity: Day visits and nearby campsites.
Pricing:
- Entrance fee: NAD 100 (approx. $6)
Reviews: “A must-visit for anyone interested in history and rock art.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Phone: +264 61 374 750
- Email: twyfelfontein@ncl.com.na
- Website: Twyfelfontein
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Guided tours, restrooms.
- Activities: Rock art viewing, guided walks.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
16. Petrified Forest
Detailed Description: The Petrified Forest is a unique geological site where ancient trees have turned to stone. This area provides an intriguing look at Namibia’s natural history, with petrified logs estimated to be over 280 million years old.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -20.5270, 14.4820
- Nearest Town/City: Khorixas
Capacity: Day visits and nearby campsites.
Pricing:
- Entrance fee: NAD 100 (approx. $6)
Reviews: “An incredible place to see ancient natural wonders.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Website: Petrified Forest
Additional Information:
- Facilities: Guided tours, restrooms.
- Activities: Geological exploration, photography.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car.
16. Roter Kamm Crater
Roter Kamm, also known as Red Ridge, is a meteorite crater located in the Sperrgebiet area of the Namib Desert. This impressive crater is 2.5 kilometers in diameter and about 130 meters deep. It is estimated to be around 4-5 million years old and provides a unique geological attraction for visitors.
Location:
- Latitude/Longitude: -27.7800, 16.3025
- Nearest Town/City: Lüderitz
Capacity: Day visits only; no camping facilities within the crater area.
Pricing:
- Entrance fee: NAD 100 (approx. $6)
Reviews: “Amazing geological site with stunning views of the crater and surrounding desert.” – TripAdvisor
Contact:
- Website: Online accommodation
Additional Information:
- Facilities: None at the site; basic facilities available in Lüderitz.
- Activities: Photography, geological exploration.
- Accessibility: Accessible by 4WD vehicle; permits required due to its location in a restricted area.