This guided hike introduces you to the Namib Desert - and in particular the privately owned NamibRand Nature Reserve of around 172,200ha, making it one of the biggest private nature reserves in Southern Africa. It shares a 100km border with the Namib-Naukluft National Park to the west and the Nubib Mountains to the east.

This wonderful reserve represents all the facets of the Namib Desert, such as vegetated red dunes in different shapes and colours, with endless plains and mountains. It opened in 1992 once a number of former sheep farms were acquired, and once the fences were removed, it created an area where Namibian wildlife could roam free in their natural habitat. This desert experience trail shows the diversity of desert organisms, adaptation and scenery.

The package includes return transport from Windhoek to the start of the hiking trail

Day 1: Windhoek - NamibRand

Hikers will be collected from their accommodation in Windhoek at ± 08h00. Heading southwards, arrival time at 'Die Duine House' in the NamibRand Nature Reserve is in the afternoon. A 2-3 hours walk follows; this will help walkers to get accustomed to the red dune landscape in the soft afternoon light, before reaching the first camp. Drinking water is available at the camp.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Die Duine House

Day 2: Walking in the Namib Desert

After awakening to a beautiful sunrise and a hearty breakfast, the trail continues up the 'Kudu Gorge' on the 'Schafsberg,' where a spectacular view over the red sand dune area can be enjoyed. Then it's time to descend the 'Schafsberg' for lunch and where fresh water is available. Rejuvenated, hikers head to the foot of the Weaver Mountain, the second campsite. There is another opportunity to see the Namibian sunset, with a climb to the top of the mountain, equipped only with a camera and some water. It is a 150m high steep climb, with mainly loose gravel underfoot. The panoramic views that awaits, compensates for the exhausting walk. Walking time: 4-5 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping: in the desert

Day 3: Walking in the Namib Desert

It's straight across the gravel plains this morning, to reach the 'Gorrasis Mountain.' At the foot of the mountain, all water containers will be filled up, as there is no water available at the camp. There is a climb up a 100m gorge, to reach the camp just in time for lunch. In the afternoon, it's time to explore the surrounding area, until darkness falls. Walking time: 3-4hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping: in the desert

Day 4: Walking in the Namib Desert

An early breakfast today to prepare for the longest walking day of the trail. The climb continues from yesterday, challenging in many ways across ground covered by loose gravel, that winds itself up for 450m. The flora and fauna changes quite dramatically, compared to the experiences on the dunes and plains. Close to the summit, backpacks are left behind to climb to the top, again only equipped with water bottles and camera's. A suitable spot will be selected on the ridge of the mountain for lunch. The descent requires absolute concentration, it is steep, and covered with loose gravel and granite boulders. Once at the foot of the mountain, there is another 2hr walk across the dunes, that finally reaches the 'Horseshoe Wilderness Area,' tonight's campsite. Bucket showers and long drop toilets are available. Walking time: 6-7 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping: in the desert

Day 5: Windhoek

There is a short walk through the vegetated sand dunes to 'Die Duine House.' The luxury of a hot shower awaits, before embarking on the long drive back to Windhoek, and the Desert Experience has come to an end! Walking time: 2-2 ½hrs
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Included

One English speaking experienced nature guide / driver per group
Free door-to-door courtesy transport in Windhoek City area only
All transfers from Windhoek to the start of the hike, and then back again
All meals as stated above
All crockery and cutlery
Hiking permits

Excluded

Tips
Items of a personal nature
Sleeping bags, light iso mattress and back packs (recommended 55 litre plus)
1.5 ltr water bottle
personal insurance (important: medical evacuation)
Alcoholic drinks and beverages

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