14-Day Southern Africa road-trip
Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe
Explore 3 Southern African countries in 14 days, driving through Namibia’s majestic landscapes, all the way from the desert in the south to the wetlands in the north. Onwards to Chobe National Park in Botswana, known for large herds of Elephant, Cape buffalo, Hippos, Crocodiles and floodable grasslands that attracts numerous bird species - the wildlife here are different than what you would experience in Namibia. Our last stop will be Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, one of the World’s 7 Natural Wonders and an obvious must visit and must see destination. Besides the roaring falls, there are a number of other exhilarating activities to partake in. And of coarse, daily yoga out in-between all these natural landscapes.
About your Host
Namaste Yoga Safari is a wellness travel company specialising in yoga holidays in some of the greatest safari destinations in Africa since 2016. Marcel, founder and yoga teacher of NYS, combines wildlife encounters, conservation, vibrant cultural experiences, nature hikes, adventurous days and mindful yoga flows out in nature. As a native Namibian yoga instructor and seasoned guide, she bring years of travel expertise, coupled with a profound love for adventure, nature, and mindfulness.
Skill level
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Yoga Styles
Slow flows, Dynamic Vinyasa flows, Hatha, Yoga Nidra, Manifestation techniques, Various Guided Meditations & Breathing techniques.
Group size: Maximum 6
Highlights
Spectacular wildlife encounters at numerous National Parks
Drive through Damaraland, one of Namibia’s most scenic locations where you get experience culture and meet the Himba tribe
Visit the oldest desert in the World and perhaps conquer one of the highest dunes at Sossusvlei
Sand boarding/Camel riding/Ocean Safaris/ Fat-wheelbiking and much more along the Skeleton Coast
Daily yoga and meditation out in nature
Standard to mid-market accommodations
Wellness & Spa treatments
Boating activities in the Caprivi, Chobe and Vic Falls
Visiting the Falls in Victoria Falls or join one of their many adventurous activities
Professional guide and yoga teacher
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Day 1
Location: Windhoek, NAMIBIA
Accommodation: Urban Camp
Arrival in Windhoek - city tour - relax - then meet for dinner to discuss what the next 2 weeks of adventure has in store for us.
Day 2 & 3
Location: Sossusvlei, NAMIBIA
Accommodation: Desert Quiver Camp
Day 2: Today we head south to the oldest Desert in the World. The drive is about 4 to 5 hours via the Spreetshoogte Pass and the views are not just only WOW from 1800m above sea level, but from here onwards the landscapes are forever changing - your eyes will not believe this and your heart will open up to this natural beauty. Think mountains, high sand dunes and the occasional desert adapted animal. We will stop at Solitaire, a quirky, almost lost little town set in the middle of nowhere. You can perhaps try a slice of the famous Apfelstrudel (Apple Pie) here before we reach our destination.
Settle into your accommodation, relax and then meet for a sunset yoga session followed by dinner.
Day 3: An early morning as the gate to the Park opens at sunrise. As we enter we will stop over at Dune before heading to further to Deadvlei/Sossusvlei. Sossusvlei, undoubtedly Namibia's most iconic landscape, located in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The Namib Desert is the oldest desert in the world and stretches over 1500km with dunes reaching heights of 300m. If you feel up for it, why not join me to climb Big Daddy, admiring Deadvlei and surrounds from above. There’s something so magical as you sit quietly and take in the energy of this Desert.
After taking some amazing photos at Deadvlei, we will head over to Sossusvlei to have a picnic brunch under one of the shady trees. After visiting Sesriem Canyon we will head to back to our lodge to cool off in the pool, relax and admire the views.
Sunet yoga followed by dinner around a fire…
Day 4 & 5
Location: Swakopmund, NAMIBIA
Accommodation: Desert Breeze
Yoga, breakfast and then heading to the Skeleton Coast for some fun activities and of coarse the fresh ocean breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.
Swakopmund with its laid back feel, palm trees, great restaurants and german-colonial architecture, has various activities to choose from. Whether you want something active or more relaxed, or even a combination, this coastline will surprise you with what it has to offer.
Breakfast will be at Desert Breeze, lunch and dinner at one of Swakopmund's many cafes’s and restaurants. Yoga sessions will be held either in the desert or on the beach, even both at the same time! Imagine… your toes in the warm desert sand as you breath in the freshness of the Atlantic Ocean. I bet you won’t ever see a view like this anywhere else in the world.
Optional Activities: Dune boarding, Quad biking, Camel riding, Horse riding, Ocean Safari with champagne breakfast, Surfing, Kayaking, Fat wheel biking, Cultural tours, Living Desert tour, Cape Cross/Seal tour, Spitzkoppe tour, Scenic flights and Sandwich Harbour 4x4 Tours
Day 6
Location: Damaraland, NAMIBIA
Accommodation: Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp
Ahhhh, this is my absolute favourite location in Namibia. The landscapes here are just mind-blowing. Here we also get a chance to visit Twyfelfontein rock engravings and visit the Damara living museum.
Day 7& 8
Location: Etosha National Park, NAMIBIA
Accommodation: Etosha Safari Camp & Onguma Bush Camp
Day 7: Our next stop will be Etosha National Park, Namibia’s greatest Wildlife sanctuary, situated in the Northern part of the country..
We will be staying at a lodge close to the entrance of Etosha’s southern gate. If early enough, we might set out to Etosha National Park for a sunset game drive.
After dinner we will visit a neighbouring lodge for some African music.
DAY 9 & 10
Location: Caprivi, NAMIBIA
Accommodation: Ngepi/Shametu
Day 9: Today we head into the Caprivi, Namibia's wetlands. Should you be interested in geology, we can stop at the Hobas Meteorite - the largest in the world. Take time to stretch your legs as there is a long drive ahead of us.
En route you will start to see the change in landscape and scenery as the Caprivi becomes more green and lush - quite a contrast from where we started. Here it is sub-tropics, plains, rivers and abundant wildlife.
Arriving at the lodge we will have a relaxed afternoon, followed by a yoga session and dinner at the lodge.
Day 10: After breakfast, we will head into Mahangu Game Reserves for wildlife viewing. Only a 10minute drive from the lodge and we have the opportunity to spot 4 out of the big 5. Elephants, buffalo, lions, and leopards are very present in this park. This park is much smaller than the Etosha National Park and perfect to visit for only a few hours.
We will head back to the lodge for lunch. Enjoy the afternoon to relax or perhaps treat yourself to a spa treatment.
In the afternoon we will go for a boat cruise on the Okavango river, a chance to spot your first hippo and crocodile. Bird lovers will be entertained by the Fish Eagle and various other bird species.
The Okavango River is the fourth-longest river system in southern Africa, running south-east ward for 1,600 km. It begins in Angola, where it is known by the Portuguese name Rio Cubango. Further south it forms part of the border between Angola and Namibia, and then flows into Botswana, flowing into the Moremi Game Reserve or known as the Okavango Delta. Before it enters Botswana, the river drops four meters in a series of rapids known as Popa Falls, which we will also get to see on this boat ride.
Enjoy the last night under the Namibian skies before heading over to Botswana tomorrow.
DAY 11 & 12
Location: Chobe National Park, BOTSWANA
Accommodation: Chobe River Camp
Day 11: Today we depart Namibia and head into Botswana after an early morning yoga session and breakfast. We will drive through Katima Mulilo and cross Ngoma Bridge to enter Botswana. After clearing customs and immigration we drive through Chobe National Park to head to our lodge near Kasane.
Upon arrival at the lodge you will be briefed on the activities included in your stay. Take some time to relax before heading out on an afternoon activity with the lodge.
Enjoy a sunset over the Chobe River and dinner will be served at the lodge.
Day 12: Today there will be 1x AM activity and 1x PM activity scheduled with the lodge. These activities include water safaris on the Chobe River or a game drive through the Chobe National Park.
Following your AM activity you will be back at the lodge for lunch. Afterwards you will have time to unwind and enjoy the surroundings before diving into a yoga session before the PM activity.
DAY 13
Location: Victoria Falls, ZIMBABWE
Accommodation: Bayete Guest Lodge
After breakfast we will be transferred to our accommodation in Victoria Falls, the adventure paradise! The drive takes about an hour but is dependant on customs and immigrations.
Settle in and lets go have some FUN!!!
Activities to choose from: water adventure; game viewing; sundowner river cruises; scenic flights; craft markets; elephant safaris; adrenal fixes with bungee jumping, gorge swinging and skydiving; lunch on Livingstone Island on the edge of the falls; canoeing safari above the falls.
Dinner will be at one of famous restaurants - think bon fire, music and dancing.
DAY 14
Location: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Today marks the end of your yoga holiday through 3 countries in 14 days - an unforgettable trip never to be forgotten. If you still have time before your departure flight, why not opt for one more adventurous activity.
Daily Schedule /Itinerary
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We will be staying at various accommodations along the way. From panoramic views of vast deserts to lush wilderness retreats, each lodge becomes a gateway to unforgettable experiences.
DAY 1: Urban Camp, Windhoek, NAMIBIA
Experience the best of both worlds at The Weinberg, where the vibrant energy of city life meets the tranquil charm of Africa. This stylish hotel perfectly combines classic elegance with modern design and state-of-the-art amenities. Guests can indulge in diverse culinary experiences at the on-site restaurants and unwind at the inviting Life Day Spa.
DAY 2 & 3: Desert Quiver Camp, Sossusvlei, NAMIBIA
Nestled at the gateway to Namib-Naukluft National Park and close to Sossusvlei, Desert Homestead offer the perfect base for exploring the Namib Sand Sea, a World Heritage Site famed for its towering dunes. Set within the Namib Tsaris Conservancy, a private nature reserve spanning over 140,000 hectares and adjacent to the NamibRand Nature Reserve to the west.
Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, breathtaking panoramic views, expansive pool and terrace areas, exceptional cuisine, and a variety of activities. The lodges' architecture is a modern take on a stud farm’s manor house, with sophisticated furnishings and decor in both the main building and guest cottages reflecting this theme. The main building features a restaurant, lobby, and lounge for guests' comfort and enjoyment.
DAY 4 & 5: Desert Breeze Lodge, Swakopmund, NAMIBIA
Set in a breathtaking location above the ephemeral Swakop River, Desert Breeze offers an unparalleled desert experience, with sweeping views of the vast apricot dune sea. Just a short drive from central Swakopmund, this serene retreat provides a peaceful escape from the bustling town and a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the ancient Namib Desert.
The lodge is surrounded by vibrant, distinctive architecture that harmonizes with the desert landscape, creating a soothing atmosphere. Majestic basalt sculptures overlook the serene environment, while the luxury bungalows, with their creative ambiance and attentive staff, ensure a memorable and relaxing stay.
DAY 6: Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp, Damaraland, NAMIBIA
Beautifully nestled among the rolling boulders of a granite outcrop, just a ten-minute drive from the Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings and within walking distance of the Damara Living Museum, situated in the scenic Huab River Valley. Guests can explore the nearby Damara Living Museum at their own pace, where they’ll discover a captivating insight into the people, heritage, and essence of Damaraland.
DAY 7: Etosha Safari Camp, NAMIBIA
Etosha Safari Camp exudes charm with its down-to-earth, relaxed, and innovative qualities, complemented by its prime location near Etosha National Park. This welcoming safari camp features cozy accommodations nestled among mopane trees, swimming pool, and abundant character. Embracing the spirit of Etosha as a 'Place of Legends,' the camp enhances this theme by celebrating the essence of Africa.
The camp's Okambashu ('Our Home') restaurant and Oshebeena bar offer a vibrant touch of local color and country charm, reminiscent of the informal bars and shebeens beloved throughout southern Africa. Guests can enjoy a delicious array of food served from an old train compartment, with dining options in the unique 'township' dining rooms, around cozy fireplaces during cooler months, or outdoors in the courtyard, where The Etosha Boys provide lively local entertainment. Wildlife adventures take center stage during the day at this Etosha camp, conveniently located just a short drive from Andersson Gate, the gateway to the wonders of the animal kingdom.
DAY 8: Onguma Bush Camp, Etosha NP, NAMIBIA
The lounge and dining areas offer breathtaking views of a picturesque waterhole, providing fantastic wildlife watching opportunities day and night. You can enjoy game sightings right from the comfort of the camp, without needing to venture out. It's the perfect spot to relax and savor a sundowner drink while observing nature’s spectacle.
Day 9 & 10: Ngepi, Caprivi, NAMIBIA
One- and two-bedroom thatched huts, inspired by traditional Owambo architecture, offer breathtaking views. Here, excursions are custom-designed to satisfy your sense of adventure. Whether you're tracking rhinos or watching elephants frolic in the water, observing a leopard in a Jackleberry tree, or experiencing the serene beauty of the savannah at night, each journey is guided by your own personal guide for an unforgettable experience. Experience wellness amidst pristine wilderness with sunrise yoga, stargazing, an open-air infinity pool, and a spa that incorporates African healing therapies and rituals crafted to purify and rejuvenate.
Day 11 & 12: Chobe River Camp, BOTSWANA
Day 13: Bayete, Victoria Falls, ZIMBABWE
Day 14: Today marks the end of your yoga holiday through 3 countries in 14 days - an unforgettable trip never to be forgotten. If you still have time before your departure flight, why not opt for one more adventurous activity.
Food
The meals offered at lodges in Namibia can vary, but they often include a mix of international and local cuisine. Many lodges focus on providing fresh and locally sourced ingredients, catering for vegan, vegetarian and gluten free. If you have any other dietary requirements, please let us know and we will request it.
Accommodation & Food
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Yoga teacher – also your host and professional local Namibian guide
Daily yoga
Accommodation as specified - it might change according to availability. If different than specified, it will be similar or an upgrade.
Breakfast & dinners (except dinners in Swakopmund)
Refillable still water for your water bottle.
1x Sossusvlei Nature Drive to visit Deadvlei, Big Daddy and Sesriem Canyon
2x Game Drives to Etosha National Park
1x Game Drive to Mahango Game Reserve
1x Boat cruise on the Okavango River
1x Massage at Spa in Okavango
3x Activities at Chobe National Park (1x Boat ride & 2x Game Drives)
Road transport in a comfortable 4x4 Toyota Fortuner
Passenger liability insurance
2x Airport Transfers
1x Road transfer from Chobe to Vic Falls
Park fees
15% VAT & Tourism Levy
Welcoming gift
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All lunches and snacks on the road
Dinners in Swakopmund
International flights
Travel insurance
Bottled water, drinks and alcoholic beverages
Gratuity
Laundry services
Optional activities
Inclusions & Exclusions
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NAMIBIA
Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia, is a vibrant and modern city set against a backdrop of rugged mountains. Known for its blend of contemporary architecture and historical charm, it offers a range of cultural attractions, lively markets, and beautiful parks. Windhoek serves as the country's economic and political hub, making it a gateway to exploring Namibia's diverse landscapes
Sossusvlei: The famous rolling sand dunes of the Namib Desert surround the marvel known as Sossusvlei which is situated in the Namib Naukluft National Park, one of the largest conservation areas in Africa. A visit to Namibia is not complete without experiencing this incredible white salt pan and the red dunes that make it so popular. After all, these monstrous dunes are some of the largest that can be found in the world, reaching heights of 400 meters. In some ways the beauty of this area is eerie as you can almost hear whispers on the wind that softly kisses the crescents of the dunes. What makes it so overwhelming is the knowledge that the sheer size of the dunes were created by wind over millions of years. Ever changing and growing, the dunes remain one of the most amazing phenomenon’s you will ever get to see. Despite the fact that this area is dry and gets extremely hot during the peak in summer months, there is a large amount of animal life, bird life and plant life that still thrives here. Incredibly adapted to withstand the harsh environment they call home.
Swakopmund: Known for its laid back feel along the Skeleton coast, with palm trees, sandy beaches, good restaurants and gift shops, makes this town the perfect stop over between Etosha and Sossusvlei. Established by German colonists in 1892, with German Colonial Architecture, a small part of the population is still German-speaking. Here, where the Desert meets the Ocean, you can relax or join one of the many adventurous activities from quad biking, fat wheel biking, ocean safaris, dune boarding, surfing, hot-air ballooning or scenic flights.
The Skeleton Coast got its name from the whale and seal bones found on shore from the past whaling industry, although in more recent years, received the name from sailors who feared sailing the coast due to the epic winds and unpredictable changing sandbanks that resulted in a number of shipwrecks, of which some of the oldest can still be seen today. Although it may sound like an area with an eerie past, it is indeed an area diverse and full of animal life. The coast itself is inhabited by millions of Cape Fur Seals, of which the largest colony, call Cape Cross their breeding ground.
Etosha National Park: Namibia’s greatest Wildlife sanctuary, the ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK is situated in the Northern part of the country. This game park is unlike any other and photographs of animals in front of the pan make this very unique and a special place to visit. With 114 species of mammals and 340 species of birds, Etosha has exceptional wildlife including, Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Wildebeest, Giraffe, Hyena, Zebra, Springbok, Kudu, Gemsbok and Eland. Numerous waterholes are found throughout the park and these provide the much-needed water to the animals, especially during the dry season. As the area is mostly sparse, the animals have adapted to drink during the heat of the day when predators are mostly inactive, making it safe for them to venture out into the open and congregate at waterholes. Etosha is incredible and if the game viewing itself is not impressive enough, the Etosha Pan definitely is, as it is even visible from space. Let that be an indicator as to its sheer size.
Damaraland is known for its scenic and fascinating beauty and it’s also where you will find the free-roaming Desert Adapted Elephant. This is my absolute favourite location in Namibia, characterized by dramatic landscapes featuring ancient volcanic mountains, deep canyons, expansive plains, and rocky desert terrain. The region's rugged beauty and vast open spaces make it a paradise for landscape photographers and adventurers. Here you can also visit Twyfelfontein, a World heritage site comprising of ancient rock engravings, Organ pipes, Burnt Mountains and a Petrified Forest. It is also the most famous rock art concentration in Africa featuring more than 5000 petroglyphs and 200 rock paintings. Driving through Damaraland is not only soul-fulfilling because of the landscapes, but you get to meet the Himba and Damara and see how they live off this land.
Caprivi - The Caprivi Strip, located in northeastern Namibia, is a unique and narrow extension of the country that stretches between Angola and Botswana. This lush region, officially known as the Zambezi Region, is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including wetlands, rivers, and savannahs.
The Caprivi Strip is renowned for its rich wildlife and birdlife, offering exceptional opportunities for game viewing and bird watching. The region is home to the Okavango and Kwando rivers, which create important wetlands and provide vital habitats for a variety of animals, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.
The area also features several national parks and reserves, such as Bwabwata National Park and Mudumu National Park, which are known for their scenic beauty and wildlife-rich environments. The Caprivi Strip's combination of natural splendor and cultural diversity makes it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
BOTSWANA
Chobe National Park, located in northern Botswana, is renowned for its remarkable wildlife and diverse ecosystems. Covering about 10,700 square kilometers, the park is divided into four distinct areas: the Chobe Riverfront, Linyanti Marsh, Savuti, and Nogatsaa.
The Chobe Riverfront is famous for its large populations of elephants, often seen congregating along the riverbanks, especially during the dry season. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of bird species.
The Linyanti Marsh and Savuti areas offer different landscapes and wildlife experiences, with the marsh featuring waterlogged terrain and the Savuti known for its dramatic seasonal changes and predator-prey dynamics.
Chobe National Park provides diverse safari experiences, including game drives, boat safaris along the Chobe River, and walking safaris, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
ZIMBABWE
Victoria Falls, straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is one of the world's most iconic natural wonders. Known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya," which means "The Smoke That Thunders," the falls are renowned for their immense width of 1,708 meters and height of 108 meters, creating a breathtaking and thunderous display of water cascading over a rugged cliff.
The falls are fed by the Zambezi River and are a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for their dramatic beauty and the surrounding rainforest. The mist generated by the falls nourishes a lush, vibrant ecosystem, and the area offers spectacular viewing points and thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, helicopter rides, and river rafting.
Victoria Falls is not only a marvel of nature but also a hub for adventure tourism and a gateway to exploring the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region.
Locations
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Should cancellations be made less than 90 but more than 60 days prior to the retreat date, payments will be refunded less the non-refundable deposit and minus a €150 admin/bank processing fee. When cancellation is made less than 60 and more than 30 days prior to retreat date, 50% of the retreat cost will be refunded less the admin/bank processing fee and the non-refundable deposit. If cancellation is made less than 30 days prior to the retreat date, no payments will be refunded.
Offering payment plans.
Detailed itinerary will be sent upon enquiry.
Cancellation policy
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We welcome all levels from beginners to advance, adjusting sessions according to your experience. Groups are small which allows personal attention, tailoring to your personal needs.
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We supply all yoga mats & props, but please bring your own yoga mat if you prefer.
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25 - 50
Mostly sole female traveler's
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Yes we do, please do let us know if you require pre/post accommodations.
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You can expect about 8-10 sessions in 14 days.
Our yoga sessions will encompass a blend of yin, slow flows, vinyasa flows, and hatha-inspired practices, in addition to incorporating breathing techniques and a variety of guided meditations. All these sessions will be conducted amidst the natural beauty of the bush, ocean, and desert landscapes.
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Yes, we catering for vegan, vegetarian and gluten free. If you have any other dietary requirements, please let us know.
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Via Wise, Revolut of a bank transfer.
Yes, offering payment plans according to your chosen amount of months.
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comfortable lightweight clothing, sweater/jacket
comfortable walking shoes and sandals
sunblock, sunscreen , sunglasses & swimwear
toiletries
camera
for electrical small appliances or chargers - universal plug
FAQ
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If you want to travel to South-Africa before or after our trip and you need assistance with booking it, please let us know.
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Reviews
“An absolutely epic trip led by a really special human! This was a much-needed adventure and mental break, and it truly exceeded my expectations. I loved the combo of wildlife, adventure and yoga, and Marcel took such amazing care of us!”… - more on TripAdvisor
