Namibia Highlights Photographic Safari: An 11-Day Journey for the Avid Photographer
- Motion Travel
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
Overview Embark on an 11-day photographic expedition through Namibia’s dramatic landscapes—from the bustling capital of Windhoek and the surreal dunes of Sossusvlei to the vibrant wetlands of Walvis Bay, the rugged allure of Damaraland, and the abundant wildlife of Etosha National Park. This private guided tour is designed for photography enthusiasts, offering plenty of opportunities to capture stunning sunrises, wildlife in action, and iconic scenery—all while staying in either luxury or standard accommodations.
Day 1 – Windhoek Upon arrival in Windhoek, your guide welcomes you and provides your travel package. Use this time to chat about the journey ahead and, if time permits, explore the city on a short guided tour. Relax and settle in before enjoying dinner at a recommended local restaurant.
Luxury: The Weinberg Windhoek
Standard: The Elegant Guesthouse
Days 2 & 3 – Sossusvlei After breakfast, set off on the drive south to Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert. As you journey through changing landscapes—from acacia savannah to desert shrub—be on the lookout for wildlife like baboons, springbok, oryx, and ostriches. Arriving early in Sossusvlei gives you the perfect opportunity to capture the magic of sunrise over the towering dunes and the haunting beauty of Dead Vlei, with its ancient petrified trees and stark white floor. Climb the dunes to obtain panoramic shots of the desert’s sculpted beauty.
Accommodation (Luxury & Standard): Dead Valley Lodge
Days 4 & 5 – Walvis Bay (via Swakopmund) Your scenic drive now leads you toward the coastal town of Walvis Bay. Passing through Swakopmund, you’ll traverse five hours of varied terrain—from rugged mountains and dunes to rolling hills—making stops to photograph endemic wildlife such as Hartmann’s mountain zebra. Enjoy a pause in Solitaire for some homemade bread and refreshments, and capture views over the Kuiseb Canyon and lunar landscapes featuring ancient Welwitschia plants. In Walvis Bay, visit the famous lagoon to photograph thousands of crimson flamingos against a vivid blue sky, and explore additional opportunities such as a boat cruise, paragliding, or a scenic flight over the Skeleton Coast.
Luxury: Strand Hotel
Standard: Swakopmund Luxury Suites
Day 6 – Damaraland – Spitzkoppe Travel inland to Damaraland, where the visual drama continues. On the way, keep your camera ready for striking scenes along the Skeleton Coast, including a stop at Cape Cross—home to the world’s largest Cape fur seal colony. Upon reaching Damaraland, explore the iconic Spitzkoppe area, renowned for its magnificent granite outcrops and dolerite dykes. Enjoy a guided tour to view ancient Bushman rock art and capture the sunrise over this breathtaking landscape.
Luxury: Spitzkoppen Lodge
Standard: Ai Aiba Rock Painting Lodge
Days 7 & 8 – Etosha National Park – South Drive to Etosha National Park for an immersive safari experience. En route, enjoy stops in Omaruru and Outjo to stretch your legs and perhaps indulge in a bakery treat. In the southern section of Etosha, spend two nights where your guide will lead you on private game drives. With your camera and binoculars at the ready, capture incredible images of lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more at the famed Okaukuejo waterhole—especially magical at dusk and under the night sky.
Accommodation (Luxury & Standard): Okaukuejo
Day 9 – Etosha National Park – East Your photographic safari continues on the eastern side of Etosha, where the diverse habitats of the park promise even more wildlife encounters. Journey through the park at a relaxed pace, taking advantage of every opportunity to capture rare moments of predators in action or graceful herds at waterholes.
Luxury: Onguma The Fort
Standard: Onguma Bush Camp
Day 10 – Central Namibia (Waterberg Region) Venture into Central Namibia to explore either the renowned AfriCat Foundation or Otjiwa Game Farm—both offer exceptional close-up experiences with Namibia’s big cats. On the way, marvel at the world’s largest meteorite and enjoy a scenic picnic at one of Namibia’s picturesque lakes, creating an ideal setting for both wildlife and landscape photography.
Luxury: Okonjima Luxury Bush Camp
Standard: Otjiwa Lodge
Day 11 – Return to Windhoek & Departure On your final day, enjoy a light breakfast before departing for Windhoek. En route, stop at Okahandja—the largest wood carver’s market in Namibia—for some last-minute souvenir photography. Bid farewell to your guide and the incredible landscapes of Namibia as you transfer to Windhoek Airport for your departure, taking with you memories and stunning images to cherish.
Inclusions & Exclusions Your photographic safari package includes accommodations, vehicle hire with fuel, professional guide services, a comprehensive travel diary (with detailed itinerary, maps, route descriptions, and contact information), and 24/7 in-country support. Exclusions typically cover international flights, specified meals (which vary by lodge), personal travel insurance, visa arrangements, staff gratuities, and park entry fees.