Namibia’s roads are not for the faint-wheeled. Like much of Africa, a four-wheel drive will do you good and spare you many tears (and strong-worded mumbles). Here are four of our favourite spots to take your 4×4 baby for a drive, and see some sights along the way.
1. Kaokoveld
Kaokoveld’s roughly 130 ellies have become ‘neat’ feeders – they don’t knock over trees, strip bark or break branches – and they can go several days without water. Picture: Getaway gallery
One of southern Africa’s last great wilderness areas, the Kaokoveld is a mountainous area that provides a real off-the-grid experience. Many parts of Kaokoland are still only accessible by 4×4 on tough routes that are not recommended for the faint-hearted.
Where to stay:
For a luxury experience stay at Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp – R14 408 per person per night sharing. https://wilderness-safaris.com
For a budget-friendly option, camping starts at R150 per person at Camp Aussicht. https://campaussicht.com/
2. Sossusvlei
No better place for a 4×4 jaunt than a desert. Picture: Bernard Pieterse
With its breathtaking landscape, Sossusvlei may be the most popular and well-known tourist attraction in Namibia. Sossusvlei is a large white salt and clay pan surrounded by massive red sand dunes and is only reachable by shuttle or 4×4.
READ: Plans to build a railway line to Sossusvlei divide opinion
There is a lot of off-roading to be done through fairly thick sand the rest of the way. Here, you can climb the famous Dune 45 or Big Daddy – about 350 metres high.
Where to Stay: Sesriem Campsite – R 490 per person per night sharing. http://www.nwrnamibia.com/sesriem.htm.
3. Damaraland
A coming storm in the evening light. Picture: Getaway gallery
Damaraland is a huge, rugged and untamed region in Namibia with wide-open plains and grassland, granite hills, and deep gorges. Elephants, rhinos, zebras, and lions are among the desert-adapted wildlife that call Damaraland home. In this remote region of Namibia, a 4×4 is definitely required as the roads can get rather rough. Also, take a look at the ancient rock paintings at Twyfelfontein.
Where to stay: Brandberg White Lady Lodge – R150 per person per night. https://www.brandbergwllodge.com
4. Zambezi Region (formerly known as the Caprivi Strip)
Taken at Mahangu Safari Lodge. Picture: Tee La Rosa / Flickr Commons
The Caprivi’s riverine forests and vast wetlands make for an amazing water-based safari. The region’s birdwatching is outstanding, with over 600 species recorded. A 4×4 vehicle is required here as nearly all of the area’s national parks are off-road.
Where to stay: Kubu & Kwena – Camping from R 390 per person per night, and cottages from R1000,00 per person per night. https://www.kubuandkwena.com
Keen on some untamed travel in Namibia but don’t have a 4×4?
Hiring a 4×4 on arrival in Windhoek is an option, with rentals available with or without camping equipment. Renting a 4×4 starts at around R 950 per day (for a Nissan single cab) and can cost up to R 2700 per day for a Toyota Landcruiser fully equipped with camping gear and rooftop tent.
READ: Namibia drops mask mandate and PCR test for vaccinated visitors
‘A well-equipped vehicle really does make all the difference to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable holiday, especially in Namibia where the country is vast and requires long driving distances between locations. The rental vehicles are fitted with long-range fuel tanks which allow greater distances before having to refuel,’ says Ellena van Tonder of Drive South Africa.
Information supplied by Discover Africa Group.
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