Namibia & Botswana — From desert wind to river sound
17-day self-drive trip through southern Africa. This extraordinary PARU self-drive trip takes you on your own road through Namibia and Botswana — with comfort, safety and plenty of freedom. Between golden sand dunes, huge canyons and the water-rich river landscapes of the Caprivi, you can experience Africa up close — authentically, intensively and stylishly.
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On an evening at the river — be it in Caprivi or Chobe — consciously take time to do nothing. No camera, no conversation, no plan. Just sit, look, breathe — and listen to the rhythm of Africa. When the sun slowly sinks into the water and the first crickets start singing, you feel what Africa really is: deep peace, warmth and connection. That is when you understand what we mean when we say: Let the sun be your guide.
Travel highlights
- Self-drive adventure with 4×4 rental car — individual & safe
- Diverse landscapes: desert, canyon, savanna & river
- Wildlife viewing in Etosha and Chobe National Park
- Authentic encounters & lasting experiences
- Comfortable lodges with a personal character
- Ideally combined Namibia & Botswana route
Your itinerary
Day 1 — Windhoek
Arrival in Namibia's capital.
Overnight in Olive Grove Guesthouse — a stylish start to your trip to Africa.
Day 2-3 — Lapa Lange Lodge
Drive south into the Kalahari.
Encounters with cheetahs at Cheetah Excursion, cozy evenings with dinner under the stars.
Day 4-6 — Fish River Canyon
On to the spectacular Canyon Lodge.
Guided Canyon Drive included — one of the most impressive places on the continent.
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Day 7-8 — Lüderitz
Maritime flair in Old Villa Guesthouse.
Boat trip to see dolphins, seals and pelicans — the vastness of the Atlantic is noticeable.
Day 9-10 — Namib Desert
Two nights in the Little Sossus Lodge — perfect base for exploring the dunes of Sossusvlei And the magical Deadvlei to explore with your own vehicle.
Day 11-12 — Swakopmund
In Brigadoon Guesthouse The cool ocean breeze awaits you.
A half-day 4×4 trip to Sandwich Harbour shows where desert and sea meet.
Day 13-14 — Damaraland
In Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp Do you discover the rock engravings of the San and experience on a Scenic Drive the barren beauty of Damaraland.
Day 15-18 — Etosha National Park
Four-night safari adventure: only in Etosha Camping 2 Go, then in elegant Mushara Bush Camp.
Explore Etosha on your own — elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes — pure safari magic.
Day 19-21 — Riverdance Lodge
Arriving at Chris & Pascale on the banks of the Kavango.
Boat trip, massage, village tour and authentic encounters — here you can feel the real Namibia.
Day 22-23 — Camp Kwando
The Caprivi Strip is green and wild.
Game Drive in Mudumu National Park included — herds of elephants on the water are almost guaranteed here.
Day 24-26 — Botswana/ Chobe River
Crossing the border to Botswana, staying in the River View Lodge.
Game drives in Chobe National Park, where huge herds of buffaloes and elephants cross the river — a worthy end to your adventure.
Day 27 — Return flight
Returning and flying home — with the feeling of having come a step closer to Africa.
Self-drive info
This trip is ideal for experienced self-drivers.
You will receive from us:
- A fully equipped 4×4 rental car (Toyota Hilux or Fortuner)
- GPS data & detailed route description
- Tips on gas stops, road conditions & sights
- Emergency contacts & German-language support during the trip
This allows you to travel freely — but never on your own.
Services included
✅ 26 nights in selected lodges & guest farms
✅ Breakfast and dinner as per program
✅ All activities mentioned in the course
✅ 4×4 rental car including insurance
✅ Travel planning, organization & support by PARU
❌ Not included: international flights, personal expenses, national park fees, additional activities.
travel price
starting at CHF 4'900.00 per person
(based on 2 people in a double room)
Price varies depending on season, itinerary and availability.
Your journey, your rhythm
This route can be flexibly adapted — whether shorter, longer, more luxurious or wilder.
We plan every trip individually — with heart, mind and sun in our luggage.
On an evening at the river — be it in Caprivi or Chobe — consciously take time to do nothing. No camera, no conversation, no plan. Just sit, look, breathe — and listen to the rhythm of Africa. When the sun slowly sinks into the water and the first crickets start singing, you feel what Africa really is: deep peace, warmth and connection. That is when you understand what we mean when we say: Let the sun be your guide.
