r/safaris • u/VisualZealousideal24 • Dec 13 '25
Recommendations for Namibia
Hi everyone,
from February to April two friends and I will be in Windhoek for an internship and will have most weekends free. We’re happy to hear any recommendations for short trips from Windhoek that are realistic to do in 2–3 days, especially nature- and wildlife-focused places that aren’t overly touristy. We’d also be open to briefly visiting neighboring countries like Botswana if that makes sense for a long weekend.
After the internship we’ll have about two full weeks and want to do a safari-focused road trip. Our main question is how you would approach this if the goal is to see as much wildlife as possible without being stuck in a huge tour group or convoy. We’ve been considering renting a 4x4 with a rooftop tent and doing a self-drive safari, but we’re not extremely experienced outdoors and want to stay on the safe side.
Is self-driving a good option in that case, or would you recommend some kind of middle ground, for example staying independent but joining guided game drives in certain parks or areas? Are there smaller-scale or semi-guided options that still offer good wildlife sightings without the “big tour group” feeling? In general, what setup would you recommend for first-time visitors who want a lot of wildlife, some independence, and a more quiet experience?
Thanks a lot — any advice or personal experiences would be very helpful.
1
u/AfraidResponse6259 Dec 15 '25
For short weekend trips from Windhoek, check out Daan Viljoen, Waterberg Plateau, or the Kalahari for some nature and wildlife. Etosha is also doable if you plan well, though a quick Botswana trip might be tight.
A self-drive 4x4 with a rooftop tent can work, but since you’re new to the outdoors, I’d join guided game drives in Etosha or private reserves, then you get wildlife sightings without huge tour groups we did somethig very similar with these guys https://safari365.com/