Embark on an unforgettable self-drive 4x4 tour that begins and ends in Windhoek, Namibia's vibrant capital. Journey through the stunning landscapes as you explore the coastal charm of Swakopmund, where adventure awaits with activities such as sandboarding and quad biking. Continue your expedition to Henties Bay, a quaint fishing village, before venturing into the breathtaking Dorob National Park, home to diverse wildlife and scenic vistas. Experience the eerie beauty of the Skeleton Coast, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Namib Desert, revealing shipwrecks and dramatic scenery. Finally, make your way to Etosha National Park, renowned for its remarkable salt pan and abundant wildlife, offering incredible opportunities for game viewing. This self-drive adventure promises to create lasting memories in one of Africa's most captivating destinations.
12-Day “Skeletons & Safaris” Road Trip
Route: Windhoek → Swakopmund → Henties Bay → Skeleton Coast → Dorob NP → Etosha → Windhoek
Style: Self-drive | 4x4 vehicle | Mix of camping & lodges
Best Time: May to October (dry season, best wildlife viewing)
Day 1: Arrive in Windhoek
Pick up your 4x4 vehicle and supplies
Relax and explore town (Christuskirche, local markets, Joe’s Beerhouse)
Stay:
Travel lodge or glamping/camping
Day 2: Windhoek → Swakopmund
Distance: ~360 km / 4.5 hrs
Scenic drive via the Khomas Highlands and Namib gravel plains
Sunset at the beach, explore colonial town vibes
Stay:
Lodge or camping
Day 3: Explore Swakopmund & Dorob National Park
Optional activities:
Sandboarding or quad biking in Dorob NP dunes
Living Desert Tour (discover dune-adapted creatures)
Visit the Swakopmund Museum and Jetty
Stay: Same as Day 2
Day 4: Swakopmund → Henties Bay → Cape Cross Seal Reserve
Distance: ~120 km round trip
Drive north along the Skeleton Coast
Visit Cape Cross Seal Colony (tens of thousands of seals!)
Explore shipwrecks and eerie foggy coastlines
Optional fishing stop or explore local eateries
Stay:
Lodge or camping
Day 5: Henties Bay → Skeleton Coast (Torra Bay/Palmwag region)
Distance: ~280–300 km / ~6 hrs (gravel roads, remote drive)
Enter Skeleton Coast National Park at Ugab Gate
Visit Torra Bay or continue to Springbokwasser Gate, toward Damaraland
Stay:
Lodge or camping
Day 6: Damaraland (Optional stop)
Visit Twyfelfontein (rock engravings), Burnt Mountain, or Desert-adapted elephants
Scenic drives through petrified forests and open desert
Stay:
Camping or glamping
Day 7–8: Etosha National Park (South – Okaukuejo area)
Distance: ~300–350 km / 5–6 hrs
Enter via Anderson Gate
Excellent game viewing around Okaukuejo, Ombika, and Nebrownii waterholes
Nighttime animal viewing at Okaukuejo floodlit waterhole
Stay:
Camping
Day 9–10: Etosha (East – Halali & Namutoni region)
Game drive slowly across Etosha Pan toward eastern side
Visit waterholes like Goas, Sueda, and Chudob
Look out for lions, elephants, rhinos, and big herds of plains game
Stay:
Camping
Day 11: Etosha → Okonjima (AfriCat Foundation)
Distance: ~350 km / 4.5 hrs
Drive south toward Okonjima Nature Reserve
Optional afternoon leopard tracking or cheetah conservation experience
Stay:
Camping or lodge
Day 12: Return to Windhoek
Distance: ~250 km / 3.5 hrs
Easy drive back
Optional last-minute shopping or lunch in the city
Drop off vehicle and end of tour
Stay (optional):
🛏️ Hotel Thule / Olive Grove Guesthouse
