Namibia Expedition

Trip Level

The trip is Level 3, Moderate, according to our trip grading system. This is a camping and lodge safari with game viewing by 4WD vehicle, nature walks, and long driving days. On the Tok Tokkie hike, we will be hiking on desert trails up to 7-8 hours each day. The hiking is mostly on easy terrain, but there are some sections of walking through sand dunes or on rough, hilly terrain with loose scree, which requires well-balanced and secure walking. We have two half-days and one full day of hiking; distances normally don't exceed 6 miles per day, and the pace is set to suit the group. Fitness and good conditioning are essential for enjoying this hike. Please bring well-broken-in lightweight hiking boots for these days, as well as for the hikes on the Sossusvlei Dunes. 

Due to its vast distances, an integral part of any Namibia safari is driving, and this is part of the adventure. We will be in the company of the Trip Leader, who will make the road journeys very interesting and point out many highlights en route. While the driving times may appear long, there is a lot to see and the scenery is dramatic and beautiful. Our vehicles are very comfortable and have supplies for tea, picnic lunches, etc.

Although this is not a particularly rigorous trip, we still recommend you undertake a preparatory program of physical conditioning (especially if you want to climb the sand dunes in Sossusvlei, which can be quite challenging; it’s also recommended for the Tok Tokkie Trail). Daily walking or regular hiking, jogging, and stair-climbing are excellent preparatory exercises. 

Any African safari is an adventure, and the traveler should bring along flexibility, a sense of humor, curiosity about new peoples and places, and an openness to the unexpected. Please note: on the Tok Tokkie Trail, if we have a small group (fewer than seven trip members), we may share the experience with other travelers. The maximum total number of travelers in the group would always be eight, to preserve the Tok Tokkie experience.

While on safari, most breakfasts and evening meals will be taken at the lodge you are staying at or in camps along the Tok Tokkie Trail. Lunches while traveling between destinations will be served picnic-style en route or at a café or restaurant if there is not a suitable picnic site. Bottled water, soft drinks, juice, house wine, and beer are included throughout the trip. All vehicles are equipped with a fridge or cool box stocked with bottled water. Tea and coffee are offered by most accommodations free of charge with meals and at afternoon tea time.

Weather

Namibia has a typical desert climate: hot in the day, and cool at night, mostly sunny and dry. Between November and April, daytime temperatures can be in the low 90ºFs, with night temperatures dropping to the 50ºFs. Between May and October, daytime temperatures generally reach the mid-70ºFs and can drop to as low as 40ºF at night. The coastal region is cool and dry throughout the year.