7 Day Southern Namibia Self-Drive Tour

Day 01 & 02

Windhoek to Kalahari Camelthorn Lodge

Travel Time: Windhoek → Kalahari (245 km | approx. 3–4 hours)

After arriving in Windhoek, you’ll be met by a representative from the rental car company and transferred to their offices to complete the vehicle handover, deliver your travel documents and answer any last-minute questions. You’ll then have time to pop into town for supplies before starting your journey south toward the iconic red dunes of the Kalahari.
Your first two nights are spent at Kalahari Camelthorn Lodge, located in a stunning private reserve where endless red sand, camelthorn trees, and sweeping desert vistas set the tone for a peaceful stay. The lodge features comfortable chalets built from natural materials, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere that blends beautifully with the Kalahari landscape. Wildlife such as oryx, springbok, kudu, and many desert-adapted species can often be seen right from the lodge surroundings.

During your stay, you can enjoy a range of activities designed to introduce you to the magic of the Kalahari. A Bushman walk is included with your two-night stay, giving you the opportunity to learn about traditional survival techniques, tracking skills, plant uses, and the cultural history of the San people. Optional activities include scenic game drives and sundowner nature drives across the red dunes, offering beautiful photographic opportunities and incredible desert sunsets. With its tranquil setting and rich natural heritage, the Kalahari provides the perfect start to your Namibian self-drive adventure.

Day 03 & 04

Namib Desert Desert Homestead Lodge

Travel Time: Kalahari → Sossusvlei (390 km | approx. 6–7 hours)

Today you’ll leave the red dunes of the Kalahari behind and begin the scenic drive toward Sossusvlei. The route takes you through the small town of Maltahöhe and over the picturesque Tsaris Pass, where sweeping plains and rugged desert mountains highlight some of Namibia’s most striking scenery.
Your base for the next two nights is the charming Desert Homestead Lodge, located on a private reserve just outside Sossusvlei. The lodge offers comfortable, air-conditioned chalets designed in a rustic desert style, each with a veranda overlooking the vast Namib landscape. Its peaceful setting, wide-open views, swimming pool, and friendly atmosphere create an ideal retreat after a day of exploring. The lodge is also known for its horse-riding activities, sunset viewpoints, and easy access to the Sossusvlei entrance gate.

The following morning, wake early for breakfast before making your way to the entrance of Sossusvlei at the Sesriem Gate. You’ll spend the full day exploring the iconic highlights of the region, including the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei, the beauty of Deadvlei, the famous Dune 45, if you are up for it a challenging climb up Big Daddy, and the impressive Sesriem Canyon.
You can choose to return to your lodge for lunch or request a packed lunch to enjoy among the dunes, giving you more time to explore before heading back in the late afternoon for a well-deserved rest. Optional activities in the area include a guided Sossusvlei excursion, hot air balloon safaris offering breathtaking sunrise views over the Namib Desert, and scenic nature drives - each providing a unique way to experience this iconic landscape.

Day 05 & 06

Swakopmund Swakopmund Luxury Suites

Travel Time: Sossusvlei → Swakopmund (350 km | approx. 5–6 hours)

After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey north toward the coast, passing through the tiny settlement of Solitaire, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn, and winding through the dramatic Gaub Canyon and Kuiseb Canyon. As you travel across the vast Namib Gravel Plains, the landscape slowly transitions from desert interior to cool Atlantic coastline.
You can approach Swakopmund via Walvis Bay, or we can highly recommend taking a detour via Ganab to explore the surreal Welwitschia Plains and the striking Moon Landscape, where ancient rock formations create an otherworldly scene. The stretch of coastline you’re approaching is part of the infamous Skeleton Coast, named for its barren beauty, foggy shores, and the historic shipwrecks and whale bones once scattered along its beaches.

You’ll spend two nights at Swakopmund Luxury Suites, perfectly situated for enjoying the town’s coastal charm. Swakopmund and nearby Walvis Bay offer full days of activities, from dolphin and seal cruises, Sandwich Harbour excursions (a true Skeleton Coast experience), dune quad biking and sandboarding, to sea kayaking and more. With its oceanfront cafés and restaurants, Swakopmund also offers plenty of great spots to enjoy lunch or dinner while overlooking the Atlantic - an ideal balance of adventure and relaxation before continuing your journey.

Day 07

Swakopmund to Windhoek

Travel Time: Swakopmund → Windhoek (350 km | approx. 4–5 hours)

Today you’ll begin the final leg of your journey, travelling from Swakopmund back to Windhoek along a scenic route that takes you from the cool Atlantic coast into the central highlands. Once you arrive in the capital, you’ll return your rental vehicle, marking the end of your self-drive adventure through Namibia.
After handing back the car, you’ll be transferred to Hosea Kutako International Airport for your departure flight. Remember to allow enough time - check-in is required at least two hours before departure, and the airport is still a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from the city.