Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it

NAMIBIAN ADVENTURE & VICTORIA FALLS PRIVATE AND GROUP TOURS WITH LOCAL GUIDE, 17 NIGHTS / 18 DAYS

The enchantment of with its wonderful landscapes and exciting attractions, where deserts, oceans, savannas and endless animal species leave you absolutely amazed. The Namib Desert with its infinite shades of colors, isolated mountains and the huge red-ocher dunes in Sossusvlei. The Kalahari Desert, the largest expanse of sand and shrubs in the world. Pictur- esque Swakopmund, Walvis Bay Marine Park and seals colonies. The Damaraland landscapes, rock carvings of Twyfelfontein and the elephants of the desert. The wild Kaokoland and the villages of the Himba people. Safaris in the splendid Etosha Park. The striking Popa Falls and the remote . A fascinating journey in the central and northern areas of Namibia with stays in very comfortable lodge or tented camps, aboard 4x4 vehicles accom- panied by an Italian-speaking guide.

I ITINERARY

DAY 1 – ITALY Departure from the chosen airport with a connecting flight to Windhoek in Namibia.

DAY 2 - WINDHOEK Arrival at Windhoek airport, meeting with the guide and briefing on the travel program. The city is situated in a lush valley surrounded by the Auas Mountains. Windhoek is a fusion of modern and traditional culture, of different fashions and architectural styles. To taste, the typ- ical Namibian cuisine in the restaurants of the city. Overnight at Hotel.

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it DAY 3 - NAMIB DESERT Departing Windhoek, we travel to our lodge in the Namib Desert. This is the gateway to Sesriem Canyon and Sossusvlei, where some of the highest dunes on Earth stand towering over the white desert plains. The afternoon can be spent relaxing at the pool or taking part in optional activities offered at our lodge. The Elegant Desert Lodge

DAY 4 - SOSSUSVLEI / NAMIB DESERT The morning demands an early start. Entering the Namib Naukluft National Park with sunrise, the first rays of sunlight paint the mountains of sand into a variety of apricot, red and orange, contrasted against a crisp blue skyline, enrapturing our senses, and providing an opportunity to capture this awesome landscape on film. You will be captivated by the surreal Deadvlei sur- rounded by some of the highest dunes on earth and Sossusvlei, where the dry Tsauchab River ends abruptly amongst dunes. Take the opportunity to walk up one of these majestic dunes to admire the desert landscape beneath. After that, we visit the Sesriem Canyon, a life-sustaining natural phenomenon in the heart of the Namib Desert. The Elegant Desert Lodge – Breakfast

DAY 5 - SWAKOPMUND After breakfast we continue our journey approaching the little settlement of Solitaire on the edge of the Namib Naukluft National Park, feeling like you have arrived in the middle of nowhere. Here it is worthwhile to enjoy a cup of coffee with the delightful apple-pie written about in so many travel books before travelling via the desolate, rolling hills of the Kuiseb Valley towards the Atlantic Ocean. Reaching the coastal harbour town of Walvis Bay, we visit the shallow lagoon, one of the most important wetland areas on the African continent and a RAMSAR World Heritage Site. Over 80% of Africa’s lesser flamingos breed in this lagoon and present a breath-taking picture when they appear in groups. Continuing along the scenic route between the dune belt and the Atlantic Ocean we reach Swakopmund, where the rest of the day is spent at leisure. With palm-lined streets and seaside promenades, Swakopmund is a popular holiday destination in Namibia. Its pleasant summer climate and long stretched beaches attract anglers and surfers from all over Southern Africa. For the international guest, Swakopmund is a bohemian mix of German architecture and African rhythms, a laid back atti- tude with adrenalin activities, misty mornings and desert heat. It is colourful, it is vibrant, but most of all, it is pure fun. Swakopmund Plaza / Beach Hotel – Breakfast

DAY 6 - SWAKOPMUND Swakopmund is often fondly referred to as the “playground of Namibia”, it has numerous acti- vities ranging from, adventure to exploring the fascinating features of the Namib Desert and the animals and plants that occur and survive here. Embrace the relaxed pace of this idyllic coastal town while enjoying coffee and freshly baked pastries in one of the many café’s. Alter- natively explore the rugged, sweltering desert on a day tour, or view this excellent, environ- ment from the air on a scenic flight. Find your inner child and push adrenaline to its limits with extreme adventures such as skydiving over the desert or quad biking and sand boarding on the dunes. Take time to get the feel of this quaint town with its historic buildings, museums, shopping arcades and beach bar that has transformed into its personality by the vibrant use of colour and the bohemian lifestyle. Swakopmund Plaza / Beach Hotel – Breakfast

DAY 7 - DAMARALAND On long yet exciting and scenic roads we head further north, travelling past the Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain (2.579m), into Damaraland, one of the least populated and most

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it geologically diverse areas in Africa. This harsh, rocky environment is home to the elusive desert elephant, the black rhino and free-roaming antelope species. Accompanied by a local Damara guide, we visit Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO heritage site where Bushman communities engraved and painted over 2.500 pictures some 6.000 years ago! After a visit to the nearby Living Mu- seum of the Damara, we proceed to the Petrified Forest – a geological phenomenon depicting the creation and metamorphosis of wood into stone amongst some of the oldest landmasses on Earth. Here we also see the Welwitschia mirabilis plant – the oldest living desert plant on Earth. Damara Mopane Lodge or similar- Breakfast

DAY 8 - After a relaxed breakfast, we travel towards the Etosha National Park, famous for its vast amount of wildlife. Once we have reached our camp located just outside of the National Park, we head onto our first safari into the National Park. Together with our guide, we explore the various waterholes located close to Okaukuejo and the Anderson gate. Etosha Safari Camp – Breakfast

DAY 9 - ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK The day is devoted purely to the abundant wildlife found in the Etosha National Park, which surrounds a parched salt desert known as the Etosha Pan. The park is home to 4 of the Big Five – elephant, lion, leopard and rhino. The Park was proclaimed as Namibia’s first conserva- tion area in 1907 by the then Governor, von Lindequist. Despite the size of the Etosha National Park, only the southern edge of the pan is accessible to visitors. Game viewing in the park is primarily focussed around the waterholes, some of which are spring fed and some supplied from a borehole, ideal places to sit and watch over 114 different game species, or for an avid birder, more than 340 bird species. Popular game species such as giraffe, , plains and mountain zebra, hyena, lion, leopard, antelopes such as kudu, oryx, eland, as well as some of the endangered species such as Black rhino, cheetah and the black-faced impala are all found here. An extensive network of roads link the over 30 water holes allowing visitors the opportunity of a comprehensive game viewing safari throughout the park as each different area will provide various encounters. Mokuti Etosha Lodge – Breakfast

DAY 10 - ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK Today your guide again takes you on a game drive in the Etosha National Park, or optionally you can book an open game drive park drive with the lodge. We may encounter animal species we have not seen the previous day and look forward to any new surprises at the different waterholes visited. The Etosha Pan dominates the park. This salt pan desert, which is nearly completely enclosed by the park and is lined by numerous watering holes, is roughly 130 km long and as wide as 50 km in places. During Etosha’s notorious dry spells the pan is a deathly place, lying parched and cracked under the molten African sun. It is claimed that game viewing is best during the dry periods as animals will then congregate closer to water. But even in the rainy season, the park remains an abundant wildlife haven. You then have the pleasure of

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it experiencing the rebirth of life as the young foals, cubs and chicks are seen frolicking with their parents, and the sprouting new green shrubs and grasses create a pleasing green oasis. In the afternoon we travel back to our lodge, where we enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Mokuti Etosha Lodge with Breakfast

DAY 11 - KAVANGO REGION After breakfast, we travel north-east towards Namibia’s lush Kavango region. En route, we stop at Hoba Meteorite, the world’s largest known meteorite. We continue to , known for its rich selection of hand-made wooden crafts. With its magnificent woodlands and perennial ri- vers, the Kavango region contrasts sharply with the rest of Namibia. Large swathes of tall woodland, riverine forests, floodplains and reed-lined channels dominate the area. This is also the area where you will see many of the traditional huts and homesteads still in popular use today. At our lodge, we can enjoy an optional sundowner boat cruise on the Okavango River. Kaisosi River Lodge – Breakfast

DAY 12 - After breakfast, we follow the route of the Okavango River into the Zambezi Region. Lush, green, riverine forests – that is what the Zambezi region looks like. This juxtaposition is what makes Namibia the “Land of Contrasts”. The area is typified by perennial rivers and large forests of trees. Whereas most of Namibia is arid, this area is lush, the soil rich and the wildlife plentiful. It is a lively hotbed where one can see subsistence and cattle farming and the well- known traditional wood carvings. From the banks of the Okavango River directly at the foo- tsteps of our lodge we have a magnificent view onto the Popa Falls, a series of small rapids in paradisiacal environment before arriving at our lodge on the banks of the Okavango river and close to the Mahango National Park where the following two nights are spent along the lush vegetation. Our rooms award us with an uninhibited view onto the Buffalo Park across the river. Optionally we can enjoy a late afternoon boat cruise on the Okavango River. Shametu River Lodge – Breakfast

DAY 13 - BWABWATA NATIONAL PARK After an early breakfast, we travel into the Mahango National Park. Being Namibia’s smallest but most densely populated National Park, the visit will be rewarding in terms of wildlife and bird watching. The has a high number of elephants, as well as fair numbers of antelopes which are scarce or not seen in other parts of Namibia. These include the roan and , tsessebe and the red . The park is also home to several . The Mahango National Park is an excellent destination for bird watching with over 400 species to be spotted. Shametu River Lodge – Breakfast

DAY 14 - KWANDO RIVER We depart the Mahango National park and travel across the Zambezi Region, (prev. Caprivi) to the lush woodlands of the Kwando River. Hundreds of elephants, large Buffalo herds and nu- merous antelopes roam these majestic riverine woods. With over 400 species of birds, this area

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it counts as one of the best birding hotspots in the whole of southern Africa. At the lodge, you can participate in optional nature drives or boat cruises. Lianshulu Bush Camp- Breakfast

DAY 15 - CHOBE NATIONAL PARK After breakfast, we travel across the border to Kasane, a small village that is located directly on the banks of the majestic Chobe River in . Bordering the world-renowned Chobe National Park, this area is known for its unparalleled diversity and concentration of wildlife. The vast numbers of antelope attract predators such as lions, leopards, wild dogs and Hyena. With its dense population of elephants sightings are guaranteed. In the afternoon we take part in a boat cruise on the Chobe River and here have the opportunity to spot not only elephants but also hippo’s and wide range of game quenching their thirst on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe Marina Lodge – Breakfast

DAY 16 - CHOBE NATIONAL PARK Today we have the option of taking part in game drive through the Chobe National Park. Your guide will assist you in explaining and booking these. With a cup of coffee or tea enjoy the sunrise and natures awakening before departing on an optional open game drive with lodge rangers, exploring the national park and see the forage of wildlife along the Chobe river such as elephants, Lechwe, Roan or Waterbuck. Returning to the lodge breakfast is served on the terrace overlooking the river. Alternatevely we can take part in an excursion to Victoria Falls to discover why the Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders on Earth as we explore it on a guided excursion on foot. This dramatically beautiful event is accompanied by a deafening roar and fine spray that arcs up into the sky, giving the falls its local name: Mosi-oa-Tunya – the “Smoke that Thunders”. Afterwards, visit a craft market where we can purchase or look at handmade crafts of the local inhabitants (optional). We return to Kasane, where the remainder of the day is at leisure.

DAY 17 – DEPARTURE KASANE After Breakfast, depending of your flight schedule, optional activities or transfer to the airport.

DAY 18 - ITALIA Arrival in Italy in the morning

RATES PER PERSON IN DOUBLE ROOM FROM € 3.700

GROUP RATES PER PERSON IN DOUBLE ROOM FROM € 2.800

RATES INCLUDE Overnight stays and meals as indicated in the itinery All admissions to the parks and sites Bottles of water available in the whole tour English speaking guide during the tour Tourist tax for the trip 24 hours emergency evacuation medical coverage

RATES EXCLUDE International flights and airport taxes Meals and drinks not indicated in the itinerary entry visa USD 30.00 (to be paid locally) Optional activities and excursions

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it Medical-baggage and cancellation insurance

HIGHLIGHTS

PARTICIPANTS: minimum 2 people GUIDES & ACCOMPANYING PERSONS: depending on the number of participants, guide and driver for the entire trip. Assistance at the airport in Windhoek ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS: 14 nights in lodge in half board, 1 night in hotel only breakfast VEHICLE: the type of vehicle (always 4x4) will depend on the number of participants and requires the presence of an Italian speaking Driver / Guide LUGGAGE: there are no specific restrictions.

USEFUL INFORMATION

CLIMATE: temperate and sunny. From June to September, moderate temperatures during the day and cold at night. From October to May, temperatures are warm during the day and mod- erate at night. HEALTH: prophylaxis against yellow fever and anti-malarial drugs is recommended in the northern regions, especially during the rainy season. FORMALITIES: passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry into the country. Full birth certificate for children under 18. EXTRA: a journey that requires a good spirit of adaptation. Not particularly tiring, but with off- road routes on sometimes muddy tracks in the summer.

Africa Segreta , via Giovanni Scheiwiller, 12, 20139 Milano Tel +39 3925375604 – E-mail: [email protected] – Web: www.africasegreta.it