We suggest an overnight in Windhoek, before travelling North, as this allows for an early start on day 2, and thus a more relaxed trip.

Olive Grove is an upmarket establishment situated close to the city centre in a quiet, peaceful area. The indoor lounge is tastefully decorated, with comfortable chairs and a fireplace in front of which to relax and read a magazine. Whilst each room caters for the every need of the most discerning traveller, the emphasis remains one of simplicity and elegance. After all, luxury should be subtle. One of Olive Grove’s main features is the large veranda in front of every room, with tables and chairs for ‘al fresco’ dining. The plunge pool and tranquil garden invite the visitor to make the most of Namibia’s open skies, while the open-air spa bath and lounge area provide the outdoor indulgences.

Overnight at Olive Grove Guest House on a bed and breakfast basis

Depart Windhoek travelling northwards via the town of Okahandja which is of great significance to the Herero People because it was once the seat of Chief Samuel Maharero who was buried here in 1923. Every year on August 26 – referred to as Heroes’ Day – thousands of Herero converge in the town to pay homage at the graves of their great chiefs. The town is an important centre for woodcarvers from the north who practice their ancient skills at the wood-and-thatch Mbangura Woodcarvers Market next to the main road at both the entrance and exit of the town.

Okonjima, home of the Afri-Cat Foundation, is only two and a half hours drive north of Windhoek. AfriCat is a non-profit organisation committed to long-term conservation of Namibia’s large carnivores, especially cheetah and leopard. A visit to Okonjima will give you a chance to witness some of AfriCat’s valuable work. This unique camp, 3km from Main Camp, is situated on the edge of a wilderness area. Each exclusive chalet enjoys complete privacy and is a combination of earthy, ochre walls and khaki-green canvas, under a thatched roof. Bush Camp has 8 luxury thatched African-style chalets. A secluded swimming pool, mini-bar, telephone, private safe, a queen-size bed as well as a 3/4 bed in each chalet. The front 180° of canvas panelling may be rolled up for a spectacular view. All chalets are between 80m -100m apart from each other.

Overnight at Okonjima Bush Camp in an en-suite room on dinner, bed and breakfast basis

Continue to Etosha, via Otjiwarongo – whose name originates from the Herero language, which translated means “place of the fat cattle” or “beautiful place”. Given the central role that cattle play in the Herero culture, both meanings are appropriate. The town was officially founded in 1906 upon the arrival of the narrow gauge railway linking the important mining centre of Tsumeb and the coastal town of Swakopmund.

Accommodation is at the beautiful Onguma Tented Camp, set in a private concession on the eastern border of Etosha National Park. An atmosphere of elegant dining prevails, complimented by the daily activities taking place around the watering hole, approximately 60 meters away. The surrounding nature lends itself to long lazy afternoons, spent relaxing on the sofas in the lounge, watching the animals go. And when things heat up, all that is required is a gentle stroll to the rim flow pool. Sit and relax in the flowing waters while enjoying an ice cold cooler. Alternatively if more strenuous activity is required, then relaxing on your patio and reading a good book should provide you with all the exercise you may need.

Onguma also became part of an innovative custodianship project relating to the black rhino. Six black rhino were darted in Etosha National park and shipped to the reserve. Here they are protected and monitored. More than 300 bird species can be viewed at Onguma. The reserve boasts the biggest breeding colony of white-backed vultures in Namibia. During the summer months Onguma becomes a bird-watchers paradise with thousands of species migrating to wetlands created by the seasonal rains and ephemeral river systems. This part of Namibia has been identified as one of the key bird watching sites in Southern Africa.

Overnight in an en-suite room on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis

Today you can enjoy the scheduled activities offered at Onguma.

Overnight at Onguma Tented Camp in an en-suite room on a full board basis

As this itinerary is an excellent add-on for the Caprivi, and into Botswana:

Depart to the Caprivi / return to Windhoek

End of Self-drive Safari

Cost: from ZAR 7 150 per person sharing, supplement of ZAR 1 755 for a single traveller.