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Namibia

Namibia’s Splendor: Desert, Culture and Magnificent Wildlife

Program No. 22269RJ
Discover Namibia — a seemingly endless country that is home to the oldest desert in the world, the Namib. Meet native people and learn about the country’s wildlife conservation efforts.

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At a Glance

Namibia is a vast country, even by African standards, covering an area roughly the size of California, Oregon and Washington combined. It’s also an ageless land, home to the oldest desert in the world, cultures that have remained unchanged for centuries, and a rich heritage of stone-age rock art. Come explore Namibia’s vast beauty and learn about the unique Himba, Herero and other traditional peoples, the fascinating desert-adaptations of the flora and fauna, the massive conservation effort undertaken by the country as a whole, and the fascinating geology of the Namib Desert.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Some long drives in enclosed, climate-controlled vehicles; roads traveled can be quite rough in places, with bumpy drives. Optional walks over uneven terrain offered. Elevations up to 5,400 feet.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Visit the world-renowned AfriCat Foundation and experience close encounters with some of Africa’s big cats.
  • Search for rhino, elephants, giraffe and zebras.
  • Observe a remote Himba settlement.

General Notes

Please refer to the “Travel Information” section on the Road Scholar website, the start/end time listed in your first informational packet or contact the provider if you plan on booking your own flights for correct arrival and departure dates. Program limited to 14 participants. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Johann Cloete
Johann grew up in Keetmanshoop, a small town in the south of Namibia. The bush is where he spent most of his time after school and on weekends, and it ultimately drew him to his group leading career. Following stints as a trainee telecom technician and a bank teller, Johann spent a year in a variety of different training programs until he settled on leading groups in 2007. Johann is an acknowledged expert on the rare and endangered black rhinos that inhabit the north-west region.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Johann Cloete
Johann Cloete View biography
Johann grew up in Keetmanshoop, a small town in the south of Namibia. The bush is where he spent most of his time after school and on weekends, and it ultimately drew him to his group leading career. Following stints as a trainee telecom technician and a bank teller, Johann spent a year in a variety of different training programs until he settled on leading groups in 2007. Johann is an acknowledged expert on the rare and endangered black rhinos that inhabit the north-west region.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
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Meals
37 Meals
13 Breakfasts
2 Brunches
9 Lunches
13 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Sep 18, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
  • Sep 18, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
  • Sep 12, 2024 - Sep 27, 2024
  • Mar 18, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
  • Apr 24, 2025 - May 09, 2025
  • May 17, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
  • Sep 18, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
2 nights
Windhoek
Named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Galton, Galton House has a relaxed but efficient style which creates a very welcoming atmosphere. A mere ten minute drive from the center of town and perched on the edge of Windhoek’s northernmost affluent suburb of Eros, guests staying here will be ensured of peace and tranquility. The lodge is also conveniently located near a number of shops, restaurants and supermarkets, all of which are within easy walking distance.
2 nights
Otjiwarongo
Okonjima Nature Reserve was originally a working cattle farm under the Hanssen family, before the family decided to forego cattle for conservation, creating one of Africa's foremost conservation projects for the big cats and other predators. Okonjima Plains Camp is situated close to the old Main Camp, which was the original Hanssen family farmhouse. The Plains Camp consists of standard and view rooms - Road Scholar groups are accommodated in the view rooms, which afford guests private luxury with a magnificent view of the surrounding bush-veldt and the Omboroko Mountains.
2 nights
Etosha National Park
Situated on a hillock near the southern entrance to Etosha National Park, the Etosha Safari Lodge enjoys spectacular views over the surrounding mopane savannas. The lodge’s restaurant and bar are nicely situated to take advantage of these views, and the expansive decking provides a great location for a sundowner drink. Each of the 65 bungalows has its own private bathroom, air conditioning, mosquito nets and private balcony with great views, while the lodge offers three swimming pools to provide respite from the desert heat.
2 nights
Grootberg Plateau
Perched on the rim of the Grootberg Plateau, Grootberg Lodge offers unsurpassed views over the Klip River Valley below. Each of the 12 charming en-suite, rock and thatch chalets gaze out over the gorge, where black eagles hunt just below the level of your private deck. The lodge main area with restaurant, bar and swimming pool are also designed to maximize the stunning views. This pristine wilderness can be explored either on foot or by vehicle to encounter the inhabitants of this remote biosphere. Desert-adapted elephant, black rhino, giraffe, kudu, oryx and lion are just some of the animals that roam this area. Grootberg Lodge is a first in Namibia's tourism industry - it is the first middle-market lodge that is owned 100% by the local community. All of the friendly staff come from the local community, while staff training and management is currently done by a private company, but only until the community becomes self-sustainable.
1 night
Damaraland
Camp Kipwe is ideally located a short drive from the local attractions in the area. The camp is nestled among an outcrop of giant granite boulders a stone’s throw away from the ephemeral Aba Huab riverbed, where desert adapted elephants often traverse. Each comfortable bungalow is simply but tastefully furnished with en-suite, open-air bathroom. In the center of the camp lies a large alfresco dining area, bar, lounge and reception with an inviting fireplace nearby to relax beside in the evenings. A refreshing swimming pool and sunset lookout with lovely views also complement the camp.
2 nights
Swakopmund
The Beach Hotel in Swakopmund is located across the street from the beach front and has the added convenience of being close to the city center. This full-service hotel offers comfortable, modern accommodation combined with spectacular ocean views and an ideal location near town.
2 nights
Namib Desert
Lying at the foot of ancient fossilized dunes, the Namib Desert Lodge offers comfortable accommodations surrounded by spectacular desert scenery. Sit out on the veranda and watch the light play off of the desert landscape, changing the dunes from gold to fiery red. Enjoy the relaxed and friendly ambiance of the lodge while cooling off in the pool, watching gemsbok arrive at the waterhole to drink.
See All Lodging Options
2 nights
Windhoek
Named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Galton, Galton House has a relaxed but efficient style which creates a very welcoming atmosphere. A mere ten minute drive from the center of town and perched on the edge of Windhoek’s northernmost affluent suburb of Eros, guests staying here will be ensured of peace and tranquility. The lodge is also conveniently located near a number of shops, restaurants and supermarkets, all of which are within easy walking distance.
2 nights
Otjiwarongo
Okonjima Nature Reserve was originally a working cattle farm under the Hanssen family, before the family decided to forego cattle for conservation, creating one of Africa's foremost conservation projects for the big cats and other predators. Okonjima Plains Camp is situated close to the old Main Camp, which was the original Hanssen family farmhouse. The Plains Camp consists of standard and view rooms - Road Scholar groups are accommodated in the view rooms, which afford guests private luxury with a magnificent view of the surrounding bush-veldt and the Omboroko Mountains.
2 nights
Etosha National Park
Situated on a hillock near the southern entrance to Etosha National Park, the Etosha Safari Lodge enjoys spectacular views over the surrounding mopane savannas. The lodge’s restaurant and bar are nicely situated to take advantage of these views, and the expansive decking provides a great location for a sundowner drink. Each of the 65 bungalows has its own private bathroom, air conditioning, mosquito nets and private balcony with great views, while the lodge offers three swimming pools to provide respite from the desert heat.
2 nights
Grootberg Plateau
Perched on the rim of the Grootberg Plateau, Grootberg Lodge offers unsurpassed views over the Klip River Valley below. Each of the 12 charming en-suite, rock and thatch chalets gaze out over the gorge, where black eagles hunt just below the level of your private deck. The lodge main area with restaurant, bar and swimming pool are also designed to maximize the stunning views. This pristine wilderness can be explored either on foot or by vehicle to encounter the inhabitants of this remote biosphere. Desert-adapted elephant, black rhino, giraffe, kudu, oryx and lion are just some of the animals that roam this area. Grootberg Lodge is a first in Namibia's tourism industry - it is the first middle-market lodge that is owned 100% by the local community. All of the friendly staff come from the local community, while staff training and management is currently done by a private company, but only until the community becomes self-sustainable.
1 night
Damaraland
Camp Kipwe is ideally located a short drive from the local attractions in the area. The camp is nestled among an outcrop of giant granite boulders a stone’s throw away from the ephemeral Aba Huab riverbed, where desert adapted elephants often traverse. Each comfortable bungalow is simply but tastefully furnished with en-suite, open-air bathroom. In the center of the camp lies a large alfresco dining area, bar, lounge and reception with an inviting fireplace nearby to relax beside in the evenings. A refreshing swimming pool and sunset lookout with lovely views also complement the camp.
2 nights
Swakopmund
The Beach Hotel in Swakopmund is located across the street from the beach front and has the added convenience of being close to the city center. This full-service hotel offers comfortable, modern accommodation combined with spectacular ocean views and an ideal location near town.
2 nights
Namib Desert
Lying at the foot of ancient fossilized dunes, the Namib Desert Lodge offers comfortable accommodations surrounded by spectacular desert scenery. Sit out on the veranda and watch the light play off of the desert landscape, changing the dunes from gold to fiery red. Enjoy the relaxed and friendly ambiance of the lodge while cooling off in the pool, watching gemsbok arrive at the waterhole to drink.
See All Lodging Options
2 nights
Windhoek
Named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Galton, Galton House has a relaxed but efficient style which creates a very welcoming atmosphere. A mere ten minute drive from the center of town and perched on the edge of Windhoek’s northernmost affluent suburb of Eros, guests staying here will be ensured of peace and tranquility. The lodge is also conveniently located near a number of shops, restaurants and supermarkets, all of which are within easy walking distance.
2 nights
Otjiwarongo
Okonjima Nature Reserve was originally a working cattle farm under the Hanssen family, before the family decided to forego cattle for conservation, creating one of Africa's foremost conservation projects for the big cats and other predators. Okonjima Plains Camp is situated close to the old Main Camp, which was the original Hanssen family farmhouse. The Plains Camp consists of standard and view rooms - Road Scholar groups are accommodated in the view rooms, which afford guests private luxury with a magnificent view of the surrounding bush-veldt and the Omboroko Mountains.
2 nights
Etosha National Park
Situated on a hillock near the southern entrance to Etosha National Park, the Etosha Safari Lodge enjoys spectacular views over the surrounding mopane savannas. The lodge’s restaurant and bar are nicely situated to take advantage of these views, and the expansive decking provides a great location for a sundowner drink. Each of the 65 bungalows has its own private bathroom, air conditioning, mosquito nets and private balcony with great views, while the lodge offers three swimming pools to provide respite from the desert heat.
2 nights
Grootberg Plateau
Perched on the rim of the Grootberg Plateau, Grootberg Lodge offers unsurpassed views over the Klip River Valley below. Each of the 12 charming en-suite, rock and thatch chalets gaze out over the gorge, where black eagles hunt just below the level of your private deck. The lodge main area with restaurant, bar and swimming pool are also designed to maximize the stunning views. This pristine wilderness can be explored either on foot or by vehicle to encounter the inhabitants of this remote biosphere. Desert-adapted elephant, black rhino, giraffe, kudu, oryx and lion are just some of the animals that roam this area. Grootberg Lodge is a first in Namibia's tourism industry - it is the first middle-market lodge that is owned 100% by the local community. All of the friendly staff come from the local community, while staff training and management is currently done by a private company, but only until the community becomes self-sustainable.
1 night
Damaraland
Camp Kipwe is ideally located a short drive from the local attractions in the area. The camp is nestled among an outcrop of giant granite boulders a stone’s throw away from the ephemeral Aba Huab riverbed, where desert adapted elephants often traverse. Each comfortable bungalow is simply but tastefully furnished with en-suite, open-air bathroom. In the center of the camp lies a large alfresco dining area, bar, lounge and reception with an inviting fireplace nearby to relax beside in the evenings. A refreshing swimming pool and sunset lookout with lovely views also complement the camp.
2 nights
Swakopmund
The Beach Hotel in Swakopmund is located across the street from the beach front and has the added convenience of being close to the city center. This full-service hotel offers comfortable, modern accommodation combined with spectacular ocean views and an ideal location near town.
2 nights
Namib Desert
Lying at the foot of ancient fossilized dunes, the Namib Desert Lodge offers comfortable accommodations surrounded by spectacular desert scenery. Sit out on the veranda and watch the light play off of the desert landscape, changing the dunes from gold to fiery red. Enjoy the relaxed and friendly ambiance of the lodge while cooling off in the pool, watching gemsbok arrive at the waterhole to drink.
See All Lodging Options
2 nights
Windhoek
Named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Galton, Galton House has a relaxed but efficient style which creates a very welcoming atmosphere. A mere ten minute drive from the center of town and perched on the edge of Windhoek’s northernmost affluent suburb of Eros, guests staying here will be ensured of peace and tranquility. The lodge is also conveniently located near a number of shops, restaurants and supermarkets, all of which are within easy walking distance.
2 nights
Otjiwarongo
Okonjima Nature Reserve was originally a working cattle farm under the Hanssen family, before the family decided to forego cattle for conservation, creating one of Africa's foremost conservation projects for the big cats and other predators. Okonjima Plains Camp is situated close to the old Main Camp, which was the original Hanssen family farmhouse. The Plains Camp consists of standard and view rooms - Road Scholar groups are accommodated in the view rooms, which afford guests private luxury with a magnificent view of the surrounding bush-veldt and the Omboroko Mountains.
2 nights
Etosha National Park
Situated on a hillock near the southern entrance to Etosha National Park, the Etosha Safari Lodge enjoys spectacular views over the surrounding mopane savannas. The lodge’s restaurant and bar are nicely situated to take advantage of these views, and the expansive decking provides a great location for a sundowner drink. Each of the 65 bungalows has its own private bathroom, air conditioning, mosquito nets and private balcony with great views, while the lodge offers three swimming pools to provide respite from the desert heat.
2 nights
Grootberg Plateau
Perched on the rim of the Grootberg Plateau, Grootberg Lodge offers unsurpassed views over the Klip River Valley below. Each of the 12 charming en-suite, rock and thatch chalets gaze out over the gorge, where black eagles hunt just below the level of your private deck. The lodge main area with restaurant, bar and swimming pool are also designed to maximize the stunning views. This pristine wilderness can be explored either on foot or by vehicle to encounter the inhabitants of this remote biosphere. Desert-adapted elephant, black rhino, giraffe, kudu, oryx and lion are just some of the animals that roam this area. Grootberg Lodge is a first in Namibia's tourism industry - it is the first middle-market lodge that is owned 100% by the local community. All of the friendly staff come from the local community, while staff training and management is currently done by a private company, but only until the community becomes self-sustainable.
1 night
Damaraland
Camp Kipwe is ideally located a short drive from the local attractions in the area. The camp is nestled among an outcrop of giant granite boulders a stone’s throw away from the ephemeral Aba Huab riverbed, where desert adapted elephants often traverse. Each comfortable bungalow is simply but tastefully furnished with en-suite, open-air bathroom. In the center of the camp lies a large alfresco dining area, bar, lounge and reception with an inviting fireplace nearby to relax beside in the evenings. A refreshing swimming pool and sunset lookout with lovely views also complement the camp.
2 nights
Swakopmund
The Beach Hotel in Swakopmund is located across the street from the beach front and has the added convenience of being close to the city center. This full-service hotel offers comfortable, modern accommodation combined with spectacular ocean views and an ideal location near town.
2 nights
Namib Desert
Lying at the foot of ancient fossilized dunes, the Namib Desert Lodge offers comfortable accommodations surrounded by spectacular desert scenery. Sit out on the veranda and watch the light play off of the desert landscape, changing the dunes from gold to fiery red. Enjoy the relaxed and friendly ambiance of the lodge while cooling off in the pool, watching gemsbok arrive at the waterhole to drink.
See All Lodging Options
2 nights
Windhoek
Named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Galton, Galton House has a relaxed but efficient style which creates a very welcoming atmosphere. A mere ten minute drive from the center of town and perched on the edge of Windhoek’s northernmost affluent suburb of Eros, guests staying here will be ensured of peace and tranquility. The lodge is also conveniently located near a number of shops, restaurants and supermarkets, all of which are within easy walking distance.
2 nights
Otjiwarongo
Okonjima Nature Reserve was originally a working cattle farm under the Hanssen family, before the family decided to forego cattle for conservation, creating one of Africa's foremost conservation projects for the big cats and other predators. Okonjima Plains Camp is situated close to the old Main Camp, which was the original Hanssen family farmhouse. The Plains Camp consists of standard and view rooms - Road Scholar groups are accommodated in the view rooms, which afford guests private luxury with a magnificent view of the surrounding bush-veldt and the Omboroko Mountains.
2 nights
Etosha National Park
Situated on a hillock near the southern entrance to Etosha National Park, the Etosha Safari Lodge enjoys spectacular views over the surrounding mopane savannas. The lodge’s restaurant and bar are nicely situated to take advantage of these views, and the expansive decking provides a great location for a sundowner drink. Each of the 65 bungalows has its own private bathroom, air conditioning, mosquito nets and private balcony with great views, while the lodge offers three swimming pools to provide respite from the desert heat.
2 nights
Grootberg Plateau
Perched on the rim of the Grootberg Plateau, Grootberg Lodge offers unsurpassed views over the Klip River Valley below. Each of the 12 charming en-suite, rock and thatch chalets gaze out over the gorge, where black eagles hunt just below the level of your private deck. The lodge main area with restaurant, bar and swimming pool are also designed to maximize the stunning views. This pristine wilderness can be explored either on foot or by vehicle to encounter the inhabitants of this remote biosphere. Desert-adapted elephant, black rhino, giraffe, kudu, oryx and lion are just some of the animals that roam this area. Grootberg Lodge is a first in Namibia's tourism industry - it is the first middle-market lodge that is owned 100% by the local community. All of the friendly staff come from the local community, while staff training and management is currently done by a private company, but only until the community becomes self-sustainable.
1 night
Damaraland
Camp Kipwe is ideally located a short drive from the local attractions in the area. The camp is nestled among an outcrop of giant granite boulders a stone’s throw away from the ephemeral Aba Huab riverbed, where desert adapted elephants often traverse. Each comfortable bungalow is simply but tastefully furnished with en-suite, open-air bathroom. In the center of the camp lies a large alfresco dining area, bar, lounge and reception with an inviting fireplace nearby to relax beside in the evenings. A refreshing swimming pool and sunset lookout with lovely views also complement the camp.
2 nights
Swakopmund
The Beach Hotel in Swakopmund is located across the street from the beach front and has the added convenience of being close to the city center. This full-service hotel offers comfortable, modern accommodation combined with spectacular ocean views and an ideal location near town.
2 nights
Namib Desert
Lying at the foot of ancient fossilized dunes, the Namib Desert Lodge offers comfortable accommodations surrounded by spectacular desert scenery. Sit out on the veranda and watch the light play off of the desert landscape, changing the dunes from gold to fiery red. Enjoy the relaxed and friendly ambiance of the lodge while cooling off in the pool, watching gemsbok arrive at the waterhole to drink.
See All Lodging Options





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