Botswana and Namibia Tour: The Best Itinerary for Three (to Four) Weeks
Finished playing Cape Town? Make a roadtrip Botswana and Namibia. Botswana is not for pussies, which are eaten by the Big 5. That might be a bit of an exaggeration, but without proper preparation you won't get far. In Namibia, things are a bit easier, but that doesn't mean we don't want to make it even easier for you. That's why we've created the best itinerary for a three (to four) week tour through Botswana and Namibia mapped out for you.
This route starts in Botswana and ends in Namibia. You fly out on Maun (via Johannesburg) and returns from Windhoek, For example, via Frankfurt, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg. Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and the Moremi Game Reserve, making it a good starting point. You can also easily travel this route in reverse: fly into Windhoek (Namibia) and end your trip in Maun (Botswana). The advantage? You start in the more accessible Namibia, where the roads are better and the driving is much easier. This way, you can slowly get used to traveling in a 4xr before heading into the rugged Botswana. When renting a car, be sure to indicate that you'll be returning it in a different country—it usually costs a bit extra, but it saves you a lot of hassle (and unnecessary back and forth driving).
The roads in Botswana—if they even exist—are often full of potholes, and you'll mostly be driving on sand and/or gravel tracks. Accommodation is expensive, and if you try to book it yourself, it's questionable whether it will work out. Yet, Botswana is worth it. The best way to explore the country without spending thousands of euros is in a 0x4 with a roof tent. Never driven a 4x4 before? Then it's recommended to take a crash course beforehand. If that's not an option and your budget allows, you can also opt for a 4x4 with a private driver and overnight stays in comfortable lodges.
Start your journey in Maun and stock up on groceries (and firewood!) at Woolworths, for example. In the Moremi Game Reserve, one of Africa's most beautiful and diverse game reserves, you won't find a supermarket anymore. The park mainly offers simple campsites, such as Mbudi Campsite Khwai, Xakanaxa, Third Bridge en South GateDepending on the route you want to take, it's wise to book in advance.
The program Guma Lagoon Camp Located on the western side of the Okavango Delta, it's a perfect last stop in Botswana before crossing the border into Namibia. Good 4x4 driving skills are essential. blackTo get there, you have to drive through water. Would you rather admire all the natural beauty from the air? Then book a helicopter ride.
On to Namibia! But first: a few handy tips before we continue with the route. Although the roads in Namibia are better paved than those in Botswana, it's much more comfortable to drive a 4x4 here as well. Allow at least an hour's wait at border crossings, and always add one or two hours to the travel time indicated by Google Maps. Google Maps isn't very useful in Botswana, by the way. Therefore, it's wise to rent a car with built-in GPS.
For a visit to Victoria Falls it is better to book an excursion (which can be done from both countries) and then drive there yourself, to avoid any hassle permits and avoid border crossings. We're fans of GetYourGuide. No hassle, just convenience. This day trip is highly recommended. Just like this helicopter flight.
Just across the border lies Ndhovu Safari Lodge & Campsite, an atmospheric place on the river, close to the Mahango National Park and the Buffalo ParkFrom here, drive via the Waterberg Plateau to the Etosha National ParkThe route is relatively easy to navigate; a 4x4 isn't necessary. It's very relaxing, just like the accommodations where you can spend the night. Recommended: halali, Namutonia, Elephant rush and – for those who want luxury – the Dolomites Resorts.
Swakopmund is a coastal town with a distinctly German feel. A great stop for souvenirs and some luxury groceries, but it doesn't offer much more. Quickly on to the lodges and campsites (with wood-fired hot tubs) of Nauams, where you can easily spend a day or two. Along the way you will cross the impressive Spreethoogte Pass. In the area you can enjoy mountain biking and hiking.
If you stay overnight in or near Sossusvlei, you can enter the park an hour earlier and stay an hour longer. Book a stay at the Sesriem Campsite (NWR), or in one of the luxury lodges within the park, such as the Dead Valley Lodge. Even more luxurious? Then go to the Boulders Safari Camp a little further on in the NamibRand Nature Reserve.
Still have time left? End your road trip at the Fish River Canyon, with an overnight stay at the Canyon Roadhouse Campsite.
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