Unspoiled Walvis Bay, a natural lagoon and the only deep-sea harbor on the Namibian coast, offers something for everyone, with spectacular bird-watching being a keynote, as thousands of migrating species make their way here annually to join the local flamingoes and pelicans. “Dune 7,” at the outskirts of town, towers over the scenic bay, and offers excellent photo ops. The city is also a good starting point for a number of exciting day trips into the timeless beauty of the desert region, including off-road explorations, or fly-over dolphin and whale sighting.
Walvis Bay
Sort By
Australia
Belgium
Cambodia
Canada
Cape Verde
Comoros
Denmark
Estonia
France
Gambia
Ghana
Greece
Greenland
Hong Kong
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
- Amalfi/Positano
- Bari
- Bologna
- Brindisi
- Cagliari (Sardinia)
- Catania (Sicily)
- Cinque Terre (La Spezia)
- Crotone (Calabria)
- Gallipoli
- Genoa
- Golfo Aranci(Sardina)
- Messina (Sicily)
- Naples
- Olbia/Porto Cervo (Sardinia)
- Palermo (Sicily)
- Portoferraio (Elba)
- Portofino
- Rome (Civitavecchia)
- Salerno
- Siracusa
- Siracusa (Sicily)
- Sorrento/Capri
- Taormina (Sicily)
- Trapani (Sicily)
- Trieste
- Tuscany (Livorno)
- Urbino (Ancona)
- Venice
- Venice (Fusina)
Ivory Coast
Japan
Jordan
Latvia
Lithuania
Madagascar
Maldives
Malta
Mauritius
Morocco
Mozambique
Namibia
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Philippines
Poland
Qatar
Sao Tome & Principe
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Seychelles
Singapore
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
- Alicante
- Almeria
- Arrecife (Lanzarote)
- Arrecife (Lanzarote)
- Barcelona
- Barcelona (Tarragona)
- Bilbao
- Cartagena
- Castellon
- Gijon
- Granada (Motril)
- Ibiza
- La Coruna
- Madrid
- Mahon (Menorca)
- Malaga
- Melilla
- Palamos
- Palma de Mallorca
- San Sebastian
- Santa Cruz de La Palma
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Santander
- Santiago de Compostela (Vilagarcia)
- Seville (Cadiz)
- Valencia
- Vigo
Sri Lanka
Taiwan
Tanzania
Thailand
Togo
Turkey
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
- Belfast
- Douglas
- Edinburgh (Leith)
- Edinburgh (Newhaven)
- Edinburgh (Rosyth)
- Edinburgh (South Queensferry)
- Falmouth
- Fishguard
- Fowey
- Glasgow (Greenock)
- Glasgow (Greenock)
- Holyhead
- Invergordon
- Kirkwall (Orkney Islands)
- Lerwick (Shetland Islands)
- Liverpool
- London
- London (Dover)
- London (Southampton)
- London (Tilbury)
- Londonderry
- St. Peter Port (Guernsey)
- Stanley
- Stornoway (Hebrides)
- Tyne (Newcastle)
- Ullapool
United States
-
OVERLAND - FLY IN SAFARI: DESERT HILLS LODGE CODE: WVDL08
Travel to Desert Hills Lodge where you will wake up each day in the splendor of the oldest desert in the world, boasting some of the world’s highest sand dunes. The lodge overlooks vast savannah plains and offers guests incredible views, sunsets and stargazing. Visit the Dead Vlei, walk amongst the dunes, enjoy a sunset game drive and savor delicious Namibian cuisine during this incredible 3-day journey.
Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.
DAY 1
You are welcomed at the pier in Walvis Bay and transferred to the Walvis Bay Airport, where your chartered light aircraft and pilot await. The flight heads south over Sossusvlei to Sesriem, to the Desert Hills Lodge in the south of Namibia.
NOTE: Luggage is limited to 15kg / 33 lbs per person in a soft bag (based on an average body weight of 80kg / 176 lbs per person).
Gracefully perched on a natural stone outcrop, Desert Hills Lodge offers guests spectacular views of the desert below and the dramatic Namib sunset.
Once you have checked in and are feeling refreshed, a leisurely lunch is served. In the afternoon you can relax at the cool swimming pool, enjoy a drink at the bar or observe vast stretches of undisturbed nature from the main verandah, or your private chalet’s shaded verandah. There are numerous species of animals, birds, reptiles and all other critters you can encounter and marvel at.
Before dinner enjoy a sunset drive in the desert in search of plains willife such as oryx, hyena, black-backed jackal, springbok and zebra. Along the way enjoy the ever-changing colors over the undulating dunes in the distance. Return to the lodge after the sundowner and enjoy a delicious dinner in this amazing setting before falling asleep below a million stars in the night sky!
DAY 2
Arise in the fresh cool pre-dawn air of the desert morning and board your excursion vehicle to Sossusvlei – a salt and clay pan surrounded by high red dunes, located in the southern part of the Namib Desert. The dunes are vivid pink-to-orange in color with the oldest dunes being more of a deep red color.
Watch the shadowed landscape develop shapes and colours as the sun rises overhead, while you marvel at or even climb the famous dunes of Sossusvlei. The more energetic can undertake a 2.2 km walk over gently undulating dunes to see the barren, fascinating Dead Vlei before returning to the vehicle, where a picnic brunch is enjoyed. The Deadvlei or “dead marsh” is a large clay pan characterized by dark, dead camel thorn trees contrasted against the white pan floor, surrounded by the huge rusty red dunes. The contrast between the black trees, white pans, rusty-red dunes, and deep blue sky makes for some incredible image taking.
Return to the lodge at midday for lunch and a siesta during the midday heat.
Later in the day, watch the changing colours of the sky as the sun sets in the west before you enjoy another delicious dinner and evening under the stars.
DAY 3
Awaken in the cool of the morning and enjoy the freshness of the new day before enjoying a sumptious buffet breakfast in the dining room. Thereafter you will be transferred to the airstrip where your chartered aircraft and pilot await.
Continue your journey by air over further spectacular landscapes, over the south of Namibia towards Windhoek International Airport.
Upon arrival at the Windhoek International Airport, board a flight to Cape Town.
Upon arrival, proceed through immigration, collect any bags and then you will be met and transferred to the port where you will re-embark the ship.
Land Program Step by Step:
Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
DAY 1
9:00am Depart Walvis Bay Harbor for the airport
10:00am Light aircraft chartered flight to Sesriem (flight details TBA and subject to change
11:30am Arrival Sesriem and transfer to your Lodge
12:30pm Arrival and check-in at the lodge
1:00pm Lunch at the Lodge
5:45pm Sundowner drive on the lodge premises
7:30pm Return to the lodge
8:00pm Dinner at the lodge
Overnight at the Desert Hills Lodge
DAY 2
6:00am Wake up call and coffee or tea at reception
6:30am Begin your excursion to Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei
9:00am Picnic breakfast at Sossusvlei
12:00pm Return to the lodge for lunch
1:00pm Lunch at the lodge
7:30pm Dinner at the lodge
Overnight at the Desert Hills Lodge
DAY 3
7:00am Wake up call and breakfast at the lodge
8:00am Transfer to Sesriem airstrip
8:50am Arrive at Sesriem airstrip
9:00am Light aircraft chartered flight to Windhoek International Airport (flight details TBA and subject to change)
10:10am Arrival at Windhoek International Airport and change planes
TBA Scheduled flight (approx. 2.5 hours) from Windhoek to Cape Town (flight details TBA and subject to change)
TBA Arrival in Cape Town, proceed through immigration and passport control and transfer to the ship
TBA Arrival at the port and re-embark the ship
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
•Guests are not permitted to use cellular phones during activities, nor speak loudly or stand up on the game drive vehicles, as it will disturb the animals.
•Smoking is not permitted during the drives.
•It may be difficult for some guests with walking difficulties to get in and out of the open vehicles.
•The roads in the game reserve are gravel. Certain parts of the drive can be bumpy. The program is not recommended for guests with back problems.
•Comfortable clothing, binoculars and a sun hat are strongly recommended.
•For safety reasons, no children under the age of 6 years are allowed on the open vehicles.
•Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
•This program is not fully guided. Local representatives will assist you with your transfers; however, the program at the lodge and hotel is run solely and at the discretion by the lodge/hotel staff.
•The light aircraft flight is strictly subject to runway conditions and serviceability. In the event that the destination airport/airstrip is unsuitable for our aircraft for any reason, we will divert to the nearest alternative airstrip/airport.
Expected Weather:
The minimum temperature is approximately 16 C/ 60 F and the maximum temperature is approximately
40 C /104 F however humidity is relatively low keeping it pleasant during the day. Evenings will cool down significantly.
What to Bring:
Something warm to wear in the morning and evenings. During the day it can get very hot, summer clothing would be recommended. Bring along, sunscreen, hats, closed walking shoes, swimming attire, cameras, chargers, medicine you would need for 3 days.
Local Currency:
You would need to bring Namibian Dollar or South African Rand. Credit cards are accepted at most lodges, shops and restaurants.
Electricity
Namibia has 220 Volt and adaptors are required. We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.
Luggage information
•The luggage allowance per person is a factor of the total body weight of all passengers. Accurate body weights will need to be provided.
•Each flight and aircraft luggage allowance are individually calculated and amended to ensure safe and legal weight and balance operations in line with aircraft specifications
•ONLY SOFT BAGS ARE PERMITTED. At this time and until all weights are known closer to operation, baggage, including camera equipment and hand luggage is restricted to 1 piece at 15kg (33 lbs) per person (hand luggage cannot exceed 7kg / 15.4 lbs) – details subject to change
•No single item of luggage may exceed the following measurements: Length: 62cm (24 inches); Width: 25cm (10 inches); Height: 30cm (12inches). This includes hand-luggage and camera equipment.
•No rigid structures, including but not limited to, frames, tools, wheels etc. are allowed.
•CPAP machines not permitted unless they are small and can fit within the allowable luggage limits
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required
This program takes place in Namibia and ends in South Africa. Please check with your local South African embassy for any visa requirements for your nationality. Visa fees are not included in the cost of this program.
Guests should have a minimum of 2 consecutive blank pages in their passport for entry into South Africa.
VERY IMPORTANT
The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.
Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.
Hotel addresses:
Desert Hills Lodge
6 km east of C19 turnoff, Sesriem
Phone: +264 63 293322
Program Includes for guests:
•Two nights Desert Hills Lodge, chalet
•All meals with 2 drinks per meal
•Transfers per the itinerary
•Sundowner game drive
•Guided morning Excursion to Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei
•Charter flights (Cessna Grand Caravan or similar) to / from the lodge
•Scheduled flight from Windhoek International Airport to Cape Town International Airport
Program Excludes for guests:
•Gratuities for tour leaders, drivers, guides and lodge staff
•Personal expenses
•Any meals not listed above
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.
Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
-
OVERLAND - FLY IN SAFARI: ONGUMA CODE: WVDL07
Travel to Onguma Reserve, home to 4 of the Big 5 and spend two nights at Onguma The Fort, a truly unique lodge resembling a Moroccan castle and with quite possibly the best sunset view over the Etosha pan. Enjoy several game drives into both the Onguma Reserve as well as Etosha National Park.
Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.
DAY 1
You are welcomed at the pier in Walvis Bay and transferred to the Walvis Bay Airport, where your chartered aircraft and pilot await.
NOTE: Luggage is limited to 15kg / 33 lbs per person in a soft bag (based on an average body weight of 80kg / 176 lbs per person).
Take off out of the desert and head north to the Etosha National Park. Upon landing at The Fort landing strip, you are transferred to the lodge, and checked-in.
Onguma Reserve consists of 34,000 hectares of Namibian wilderness, is home to over thirty different animal species that roam freely on the reserve, more than 300 bird species and even four of the "Big 5". Plains game include kudu, giraffe, eland, oryx, hartebeest, zebra, impala and many more as well as predators such as lion, cheetah and leopard, being common residents of the area.
The Fort is also unlike any other, the only one of its kind in Namibia. It is built in exactly the right spot to give guests arguably the best sunset view in the whole of Namibia – overlooking the beautiful scarceness of the Etosha Pans, decorated only with its wild animals and hundreds of Camel Thorn trees.
The bush suites are all situated adjacent to the main fort. Each is completely private and equipped with a bar fridge and air conditioning. The spacious bathroom has both an inside shower as well as an outside shower area. From every area of the room, wooden decks lead you towards the outside seating area and sun loungers for simply relaxing and enjoying the extraordinary view.
After lunch embark on a sunset nature drive around the Onguma premises where you will be sure to have numerous wildlife encounters.
Return to freshen up before dinner and then enjoy a spectacular dinner amidst the bush savanna of the Namibian North. After dinner guests may wish to use the telescope is good fun to use during the soft light of dusk
DAY 2
After an early start, drive to the Etosha National Park for an early morning game drive. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.
The rest of the morning is free for you to explore the lodge.
In the late afternoon enjoy another unforgettable sunset drive around the Onguma Private Game Reserve. The experienced guides will share with their guests an intimate knowledge of the wildlife and the land that is part of their natural heritage.
Return to Onguma Fort where you can relax and freshen up before another hearty dinner in the bush savannah in the north of Namibia. During free time animals may even be spotted at the watering hole close to the dining room.
DAY 3
Enjoy a savoury buffet breakfast in the dining room before checking out and transferring the airstrip where your chartered aircraft and pilot await.
Fly over the central region of Namibia towards Windhoek International Airport. From here, change planes and fly to Cape Town International Airport. Upon arrival, proceed through customs and immigration, collect any bags and then you will be met for a transfer to the Cape Town Harbor where you will re-embark the ship.
Land Program Step by Step:
Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
DAY 1
9:00am Depart Walvis Bay Harbor for the airport
10:00am Light aircraft chartered flight to Onguma Lodge (flight details TBA and subject to change)
12:00pm Arrival airstrip and transfer to the lodge
12:30pm Arrival and check-in
1:00pm Lunch at the lodge
5:00pm Sunset nature drive on the lodge premises
8:00pm Dinner at the lodge
Overnight at the Onguma The Fort
DAY 2
6:30am Wake-up call and coffee or tea at reception
7:00am Game drive in the Etosha National Park
9:30am Breakfast at the lodge
1:00pm Lunch at the lodge
5:00pm Sunset nature drive on the lodge premises
8:00pm Dinner at the lodge
Overnight at the Onguma The Fort
DAY 3
7:00am Full English breakfast and check out
8:00am Transfer to the airstrip
8:30am Light aircraft chartered flight to Windhoek International Airport (flight details TBA and subject to change)
10:00am Arrival at Windhoek International Airport and change planes
TBA Scheduled flight (approx. 2.5 hours) from Windhoek to Cape Town (flight details TBA and subject to change)
TBA Arrival in Cape Town, proceed through immigration and passport control and transfer to the ship
TBA Arrival at the port and re-embark the ship
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
•Guests are not permitted to use cellular phones during activities, nor speak loudly or stand up on the game drive vehicles, as it will disturb the animals.
•Smoking is not permitted during the drives.
•It may be difficult for some guests with walking difficulties to get in and out of the open vehicles.
•The roads in the game reserve are gravel. Certain parts of the drive can be bumpy. The program is not recommended for guests with back problems.
•Comfortable clothing, binoculars and a sun hat are strongly recommended.
•For safety reasons, no children under the age of 7 years are allowed on the open vehicles.
•Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
•This program is not fully guided. Local representatives will assist you with your transfers; however, the program at the lodge and hotel is run solely and at the discretion by the lodge/hotel staff.
•The light aircraft flight is strictly subject to runway conditions and serviceability. In the event that the destination airport/airstrip is unsuitable for our aircraft for any reason, we will divert to the nearest alternative airstrip/airport.
Expected Weather:
The minimum temperature is approximately 16 C/ 60 F and the maximum temperature is approximately
40 C /104 F however humidity is relatively low keeping it pleasant during the day. Evenings will cool down significantly.
What to Bring:
Something warm to wear in the evening, mornings and at night. During the day it can get very hot, summer clothing would be recommended. Bring along, sunscreen, hats, closed walking shoes, swimming attire, cameras, binoculars, medicine you would need for 3 days.
NOTE:
Malaria is a concern in Etosha, especially in the wetter months from October to April. It is recommended to take antimalarials and also take precautions such as covering up in the evening and applying mosquito repellent.
Local Currency:
You would need to bring Namibian Dollar or South African Rand. Credit cards are accepted at most lodges, shops and restaurants.
Electricity
Namibia has 220 Volt and adaptors are required. We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.
Luggage information
•The luggage allowance per person is a factor of the total body weight of all passengers. Accurate body weights will need to be provided.
•Each flight and aircraft luggage allowance are individually calculated and amended to ensure safe and legal weight and balance operations in line with aircraft specifications
•ONLY SOFT BAGS ARE PERMITTED. At this time and until all weights are known closer to operation, baggage, including camera equipment and hand luggage is restricted to 1 piece at 15kg (33 lbs) per person (hand luggage cannot exceed 7kg / 15.4 lbs) – details subject to change
•No single item of luggage may exceed the following measurements: Length: 62cm (24 inches); Width: 25cm (10 inches); Height: 30cm (12inches). This includes hand-luggage and camera equipment.
•No rigid structures, including but not limited to, frames, tools, wheels etc. are allowed.
•CPAP machines not permitted unless they are small and can fit within the allowable luggage limits
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required
This program takes place in Namibia and ends in South Africa. Please check with your local South African embassy for any visa requirements for your nationality. Visa fees are not included in the cost of this program.
Guests should have a minimum of 2 consecutive blank pages in their passport for entry into South Africa.
VERY IMPORTANT
The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.
Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.
Hotel address:
Onguma The Fort
P.O. Box 24046 Windhoek, Eastern border of Etosha National Park
Phone: +264 61 237055
Program Includes for guests:
•2 nights at Onguma The Fort – Bush Suite
•All meals with 2 drinks per meal
•Transfers
•2 x sundowner drives on Onguma Reserve
•1 x AM game drive into the Etosha National Park
•Charter light aircraft flights from Walvisbay to Onguma and Onguma to Windhoek
•Scheduled flight from Windhoek International Airport to Cape Town International Airport
Program Excludes for guests:
•Gratuities for tour leaders, drivers, guides and lodge staff
•Personal expenses
•Any meals not listed above
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.
Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
-
OVERLAND - BEST OF NAMIBIA CODE: WVDL14
Behold the natural beauty of three extraordinary Namibian reserves while traveling through the bush on game drives where you may spot some of the iconic animals that inhabit these protected wonderlands.
For programs with flights:
Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.
DAY 1 – January 15, 2026
After disembarking the ship in Walvis Bay, you will meet the guide on the pier and depart for the Timbila Game Reserve via the small cities of Swakopmund and Omaruru. Tucked away in the Goot River Valley and set into the slope of Osera Mountain, this private reserve provides sanctuary to wildlife and guests alike.
After checking in at Timbila, you will receive an orientation of the tented camp so you can maximize your stay. Later in the afternoon, you will join a scientist-led team for an enlightening animal-tracking tour, where you may spot wildlife ranging from towering giraffes to small steenbok antelopes.
Dinner will be served back at the lodge, where you will overnight.
DAY 2 – January 16, 2026
Following a full English breakfast overlooking the vast savannah landscape, you will depart for Etosha Oberland Lodge, just southeast of the Anderson Gate to the Etosha National Park.
After checking into the lodge, you will travel into the national park on a game drive. Etosha is known for its enormous biodiversity. You may spot elephants in the thicker vegetation, endangered black rhinos and lions in the golden grasslands. Nearly 350 species of birds have been identified in Etosha, including ostriches – the world’s largest bird – and the kori bustard, the world’s heaviest flying bird.
Dinner will be served back at Etosha Oberland Lodge, where you will overnight.
DAY 3 – January 17, 2026
Following an early wake-up call and breakfast at the lodge, you will head into the savannah on a game drive with a guide. The closer that you come to the vast bare expanse of the Etosha Salt Pan, the more challenging the conditions for the flora and fauna. It is an extraordinary landscape that covers about a quarter of the national park. The guide will describe the massive salt pan in detail while pointing out the highlights.
As this is a full day away from the lodge, lunch will be served in the national park, allowing you time to rest and refresh.
Upon returning to Etosha Oberland Lodge mid-afternoon, you will have the opportunity to relax before dinner and enjoy one last evening at the lodge.
DAY 4 – January 18, 2026
After breakfast at the lodge and check out, you will travel into a southerly direction to the Omaanda Lodge in the heart of the Zannier Reserve. The thatched huts at the lodge are inspired by traditional Owambo architecture and offer magnificent views stretching to the distant hills of the Khomas Hochland Plateau.
During your time at the lodge, safaris and excursions will be tailored to suit your passion for adventure and each couple will have their own private guide. The options will be presented upon your arrival. You might track a rhino or a herd of elephants, observe a leopard climbing a jackleberry tree or simply experience the beauty of the savannah as the day unfolds. The choices will be entirely yours.
Dinner will be served at Omaanda Lodge, where you will spend the evening.
DAY 5 – January 19, 2026
Today, breakfast will be served on the terrace with views of the savannah, after which you will check out and transfer to the airport for the flight to Johannesburg. You will be met at the airport in Johannesburg and assisted with your connecting flight to Port Elizabeth.
Upon arriving, you will be met by a representative and transferred to the harbor to re-board the cruise ship.
Land Program Step by Step
The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. Program details including timings and flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up-to-date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
DAY 1
11:00am Disembark the ship in Walvis Bay
11:30am Depart for Timbila Game Reserve
12:00pm Lunch packs provided enroute
4:00pm Check-in at Timbila Lodge
4:30pm Enjoy an animal tracking tour
7:00pm Return to the lodge and freshen up
8:00pm Dinner at Timbila Lodge
Overnight at Timbila Lodge
DAY 2
8:00am Full English breakfast
9:00am Check out and depart for Etosha Oberland Lodge
1:00pm Arrival and lunch at Etosha Oberland Lodge
3:30pm Game drive in Etosha National Park
6:03pm Return to the lodge
7:30pm Dinner at Etosha Oberland Lodge
Overnight at Etosha Oberland Lodge
DAY 3
6:00am Early breakfast
6:45am Game drive in Etosha National Park
12:30pm Lunch at one of Etosha’s rest camps
3:30pm Return to the lodge
7:00pm Dinner at the lodge
Overnight at Etosha Oberland Lodge
DAY 4
8:00am Full English breakfast
8:45am Check out and depart for Omaanda Lodge
12:00pm Lunch en-route
3:30pm Arrive at Omaanda Lodge
4:30pm Game tracking on the private game reserve
6:45pm Return to the lodge
8:00pm Dinner at the lodge
Overnight at the Omaanda Lodge
DAY 5
8:30am Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the Omaanda Lodge
10:30am Transfer to the airport
1:45pm Fly to Johannesburg (flight details TBA and subject to change)
TBA Arrive in Johannesburg and change planes
TBA Fly to Port Elizabeth (flight details TBA and subject to change)
6:35pm Arrive in Port Elizabeth
7:00pm Transfer to the ship
7:30pm Approximate arrival at the port to re-board the ship
Please Note
•The contents and order of activities in this program are subject to change by the lodge management without prior notice, due to the prevailing weather conditions and movement of dangerous wildlife on the game reserve.
•Game-drive vehicles traverse uneven terrain that can be bumpy. Therefore, this tour is not recommended for guests with back or neck problems.
•Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
•This program is not fully guided. Upon arriving at the lodges, you will be in the hands of its staff.
•Flights are not accompanied.
Expected Weather
During the day the temperature can vary from 30-40 degrees Celsius. At night and early mornings, it can get a little bit chilly, ranging from 20-25 degrees Celsius.
What to Bring
Bring clothing for hot daily temperatures but also light jackets for the night and mornings. Closed and comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, camera and any medicines.
Local Currency
Namibia dollar and South African Rand are accepted.
Electricity
In Namibia, appliances run on 220/240 volts. Electrical outlets are of the round 3 pin – 15 amp type (Type M). If you are traveling from abroad, you will need an adapter, which your guide will supply.
Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)
1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.
2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)
3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).
4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator be responsible for.
Documents and Visa Requirements
This program takes place between Namibia and South Africa.
A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required. Three blank pages open in your passport are needed for entry into Namibia.
South African Immigration requires that you have at least two consecutive double-blank pages in your passport or entry to the country could be denied.
Please consult your local embassy for both Namibia and South Africa for visa requirements pertaining to your nationality.
VERY IMPORTANT
The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program, otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.
Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. It is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.
Accommodations
Timbila Safari Lodge
D 2329 Omaruru DISTRICT
Phone: +264 81 677 9192
Etosha Oberland Lodge
Etosha, Ombika
Phone: +264 61 240 020
Omaanda Lodge (ZANNIER Resort)
Ondekaremba Kleinsiedlung
Phone: +264 81 127 2425
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•One night at the Timbila Safari Lodge, dinner, bed and breakfast (Safari Suite)
•Two nights at Etosha Oberland Lodge, dinner, bed and breakfast (Standard Suite)
•One-night Omaanda Lodge, dinner, bed and breakfast (One-bedroom Hut)
•English-speaking tour guide for the duration of the tour
•Transportation and transfers in comfortable vehicles according to Namibian standard.
•All entrance fees
•All meals and drinks with the meals included (4 x lunch, 4 x dinner, 4 x breakfast)
•Guided tracking safari at Timbila Lodge
•Guided excursion into the Etosha National Park
•Guided tracking safari at Omaanda Lodge
Program Excludes for guests:
•Visa fees if required
•Optional excursions offered at the hotels
•Drinks and meals not mentioned above
•Gratuities for drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
•Excess or overweight luggage fees on flights
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.
Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid-cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
-
OVERLAND - FLY IN: SOSSUSVLEI & ETOSHA CODE: WVDL12
Visit Sossusvlei, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding geological and ecological value. Discover the natural wonders and grandeur of the oldest desert in the world, the Namib Desert, with some of the highest dunes in the world. Then, look for iconic African animals on early-morning and evening game drives in Etosha National Park while spending time in between adventures at the contemporary Mokuti Etosha lodge.
Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. Portions of this program are not recommended for guests with any walking difficulties. Roads in the Namib desert offer what is called the “African massage” – they are often rough gravel so they are bumpy and can be quite dusty.
Chartered Cessna 210 aircraft will be used. There is a limit of four guests per aircraft and passenger weights will be required at the time of booking for weight distribution on the aircraft. Please see further below for luggage restrictions. (plane type subject to change)
DAY 1 – November 29, 2026
Disembark in Walvis Bay and transfer to the Swakopmund Airport. Here you will be met by your pilot and board a chartered light aircraft flight to the Sossusvlei Airstrip. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the beautifully situated Desert Hills Lodge, which is perched on a natural rocky outcrop and offers spectacular views of the desert and the dramatic sunset over the Namib.
Stay in one of 18 individual stone ensconced thatch chalets, each outfitted with all the modern conveniences you would need. Each has its own deck with uninterrupted views across the desert. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to settle in and then enjoy dinner at the lodge.
DAY 2 – November 30, 2026
After an early morning wake-up call and some coffee or tea, depart for a drive in an open 4x4 vehicle to Sossusvlei. This is one of Namibia's most spectacular landmarks with its red dunes, the white salt pan and Deadvlei. Here you will have the opportunity to see one of the highest sand dunes before continuing to the Sesriem Canyon, the formation of which began approximately thirty million years ago. During your walk into the canyon, your experienced guides will share the history behind this magnificent natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab River.
NOTE: Hiking shoes, a hat, sunblock and water are recommended for the walk into the canyon. Pathways are dirt and gravel and can be dusty.
Upon returning to the lodge, check out (don’t forget your lunch packs) and return to the airstrip for a chartered light aircraft flight to the famous Etosha National Park. The name of the park is derived from the Etosha pan (lake) which is roughly five thousand square kilometres. It’s so big, its visible from space. Now the pan is mainly dry unless the rains are heavy but no matter what time of the year, it’s a gathering spot for all kinds of wildlife.
This park is one of the largest savannah conservation areas in Africa and is world-renowned for its spectacular wildlife including elephant, black and white rhinoceros, lion, leopard, cheetah, springbok, zebra, wildebeest and giraffe to name a few.
The contemporary Mokuti Etosha Lodge is a private oasis, where you will enjoy the comfort of a spacious room with a private patio. Banded mongooses, antelopes and numerous birds can often be observed from the patio.
Follow check-in you will have time to relax and settle in before dinner.
DAY 3 – December 1, 2026
Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge, followed by a morning guided game drive in an open 4x4 vehicle in the world-famous Etosha National Park.
Situated in the north-west of Namibia, Etosha National Park offers a first-class game viewing experience. The park's diverse vegetation ranges from dense bush to open plains that attract a variety of wildlife.
In the afternoon, after returning to the lodge for a delicious lunch, return to Etosha National Park to visit some of the waterholes that offer a picturesque opportunity.
DAY 4 – December 2, 2026
After breakfast and check out, procced to the airstrip for a flight to Windhoek and then onwards to Cape Town where you will be met and transferred to the port to re-embark the ship.
Land Program Step by Step:
Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
DAY 1 – timing subject to change based on flight times
10:00am Departure from Walvis Bay Harbor
10:15am Brief visit the lagoon at Walvis Bay
10:30am Drive to Swakopmund Airport
TBA Chartered light aircraft flight to Sossusvlei Airstrip
TBA Arrival at Sossusvlei Airstrip, meet local representative and drive to Desert Hills Lodge
2:30pm Check-in at the lodge
Afternoon at leisure to settle in
7:30pm Dinner at the lodge
Overnight at Desert Hills Lodge
DAY 2 – timing subject to change based on flight times
5:45am Coffee and tea will be served
6:00am Depart for Sossusvlei 4x4 tour
7:45am Arrival in the dunes and explore some of the highest sand dunes
8:45am Breakfast is served in the Deadvlei
10:00am Return to the lodge and check out, lunch pack provided by the lodge
11:30am Arrival at airstrip
12:00pm Chartered light aircraft flight to Etosha National Park
3:00pm Arrival at Mokuti Airstrip
3:15pm Transfer to Mokuti Etosha Lodge
4:00pm Arrival and check-in
7:30pm Dinner at the lodge
Overnight at Mokuti Etosha Lodge
DAY 3
6:30am Breakfast at Mokuti Etosha Lodge
7:00am Guided game drive in Etosha National Park
10:00am Return to Mokuti Etosha Lodge
12:45am Lunch at Mokuti Etosha Lodge
4:00pm Drive to the waterholes for animal sightings
8:00pm Dinner at Mokuti Etosha Lodge
Overnight at Mokuti Etosha Lodge
DAY 4 – flights and timing subject to change based on flight schedules closer to operation
8:00am Breakfast at the lodge
8:45am Check out
9:00am Transfer to Mokuti Airstrip
9:45am Flight to Windhoek International Airport (flight details TBA and subject to change)
12:45am Flight to Cape Town (flight details TBA and subject to change)
2:45pm Arrival in Cape Town, meet and greet and transfer to the ship
4:45pm Approximate arrival at the port, re-board the ship
Ship scheduled to sail 6pm
Please Note
•The contents and order of activities in this program are subject to change by the lodge management without prior notice, due to the prevailing weather conditions and movement of dangerous wildlife on the game reserve.
•Game-drive vehicles traverse uneven terrain that can be bumpy. Therefore, this tour is not recommended for guests with back or neck problems.
•Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
•This program is not fully guided. Local representatives will assist you with your transfers however, the program at the lodge is run solely and at the discretion by the lodge staff.
•Flights are not accompanied
•Parts of Namibia are considered to be malarial, so we recommend the use of anti-malarial prophylactics subject to advice from your doctor.
Expected Weather:
During the day the temperature can vary from 30-35 C (86 -95 F). Early mornings and evenings it can be a bit chilly (20-25 C / 68 – 77 F).
What to Bring:
Hat, closed toe / hiking shoes, long-sleeved lightweight shirts, a warm sweater or jacket for evenings and early-morning safaris, swimsuit, sunscreen, a light jacket in case of rain, personal medications and camera equipment including chargers.
Local Currency:
Namibia dollar and South African Rand is accepted.
Electricity:
220 V is the voltage, 3- or 2-round pin adaptor is required. An adaptor will be required. We recommend brining your own universal travel adaptor for electric devices.
Luggage:
There will be a maximum of 4 guests per aircraft and luggage cannot exceed 10kg/ 22lbs per person provided that all guests all have an average weight of 70kg / 154 lbs each.
Bags must be soft sided with no wheels, frames or rigid structures and the above total is inclusive of all hand luggage and camera equipment.
Maximum bag dimensions are 25cm (10 inches) wide x 30cm (12 inches) high and 62cm (24 inches) long.
Portable oxygen concentrators are not permitted. We require CPAP details at least 120 days before departure and they must be packed and not used in flight. The charter airline may deny based on model and size therefore please provide as much detail as possible when calling in the details.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
This program takes place between Namibia and South Africa. Guests may require a Visa for ship’s entry to Namibia. Please consult with our VISA team or your local Namibian Embassy for further details for ship’s entry to Namibia.
During the program you will enter South Africa by air. Guests will require a passport that is valid for at least six months after travel and at least one blank page for entry stamps.
VERY IMPORTANT
The name on your cruise booking, passport, and ANY visas, if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents. Guests are responsible to make sure that there are enough pages in their passports for any visas that are required.
Failure to have the required and correct documents ahead of time could result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program or guests may need to purchase new flight tickets at their own cost.
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements for your nationality.
Accommodations:
Desert Hills Lodge
6 km east of C19 turnoff, Sesriem, Namibia
Phone: +264 63 293 322
Mokuti Etosha Lodge
Tsumeb, Etosha, Namibia
Phone: +264 67 229 084
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•1 night at the Desert Hills Lodge, Superior Room (subject to change)
•2 nights at Mokuti Etosha Lodge, Standard room (subject to change)
•All meals at the lodges – soft drinks, water, beer, cider and local spirits
•Packed lunch day 2
•All required transfers including meet and greet in Cape Town
•Guided excursion to Sossusvlei in safari vehicles
•Game drives in Etosha National Park
•Charter light aircraft flights from Walvis Bay to Sossusvlei, Sossusvlei to Mokuti. Mokuti to Windhoek (subject to change)
•Scheduled economy class international flight from Windhoek to Cape Town
Program Excludes for guests:
•Visa fees if required
•Optional excursions provided by the lodges
•Any drinks or meals not mentioned above
•Gratuities for drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including laundry, mini bar and room service
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.
Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
-
OVERLAND - FLY IN: KWESSI DUNES LODGE CODE: WVDL15