An extraordinary family road trip through wide open spaces and wildlife.
Namibia is a country that offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, and our family trip allowed us to discover unique places, each more impressive than the last. Follow us on this adventure, from an endless desert to imposing mountains, passing through the wildlife of nature reserves. Here is our itinerary from Windhoek to Etosha, via the Kalahari, Sossusvlei, and much more!
14/8 to 18/08 Windhoek – Kalahari Desert – Sossusvlei
1. Windhoek: Gateway to Namibia
Our adventure began in Windhoek, the Namibian capital. Located in the heart of the country, this city is a blend of cultures, German colonial architecture, and African modernity. Unfortunately, we didn't have time to explore it.
2. The Kalahari: Immersion in the Red Desert
After leaving the capital, we headed towards the Kalahari, a desert with striking red dunes. The landscape is magical, especially at sunset. We were lucky enough to spot some iconic animals like meerkats and antelopes. The local lodges often offer gluten-free options, which made my stay even more enjoyable.
3. Sossusvlei: The Giant Sand Dunes
Our next stop was Sossusvlei, in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. It was here that we discovered the famous dunes, among the tallest in the world. Climbing Dune 45 at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. The changing colors of the sand are spectacular, and the feeling of walking in this endless desert landscape is incomparable. Don't miss Deadvlei, with its petrified trees in the middle of a salt flat.
08/18 to 08/23 Swakopmund – Damaraland
4. Swakopmund and Sandwich Harbour: Between Desert and Ocean
After the desert heat, we took a trip to Swakopmund, a small coastal town with Germanic charm. It's the perfect place to relax, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy: quad biking, horseback riding, and even boat trips to see dolphins. Nearby is Sandwich Harbour, where the desert meets the ocean. Driving a 4x4 over the dunes and watching them plunge straight into the waves is a spectacular sight.
At the hotel where we were staying, the Mirage Desert Lodge, we had the opportunity to taste kudu meat and oryx meat: it was really delicious, even better than beef.
5. Damaraland: Lunar Landscape, Rock Engravings and Etendeka
We then headed to Damaraland, a fascinating region of mountains and desert plains. It was here that we visited Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years. This place tells an ancient and mysterious story, and the surrounding landscapes, with their unique rock formations, create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Another highlight of our stay in Damaraland was our experience at Etendeka . Nestled in the remote mountains, Etendeka is a private reserve where wilderness reigns supreme. We spent unique moments there, far from civilization, in the heart of this pristine region. Here, wildlife roams freely, and we were lucky enough to spot oryx, mountain zebras, and even desert elephants. The guided hikes through this rocky landscape, amidst basalt formations, allowed us to truly reconnect with nature. Etendeka is a unique place, ideal for those seeking total immersion in the vast wilderness of Namibia.
08/23 to 08/27 Etosha Park – Waterberg – Windhoec
6. Etosha: An Unforgettable Safari
No trip to Namibia would be complete without a safari, and Etosha National Park is one of the best places for it. We were able to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and even rhinos roaming freely. The park is centered around the Great Salt Pan, a vast white plain that attracts animals to waterholes. The memory of wild animals drinking in their natural habitat will remain etched in our minds.
7. Waterberg: The Final Stop in the Heart of Nature
Our trip ended at Waterberg, an imposing rock formation that shelters a diverse array of wildlife. This place is perfect for hiking, with marked trails allowing you to admire the surrounding nature. We were lucky enough to spot black rhinos. Our plane took off quite early, so we had to leave the lodge at 5:00 a.m., which is not recommended, and we quickly understood why: in the middle of the night, on bush tracks, zebras, giraffes, and impalas were lying on the path. It was both eerie and magical. It was a perfect conclusion to our Namibian adventure.
Tips for a Gluten-Free Trip to Namibia
Traveling in Namibia on a gluten-free diet is perfectly possible. Many lodges and restaurants cater to specific dietary needs. However, it's recommended to bring some gluten-free snacks for the desert stages where options are limited.
