5 amazing road trips in Namibia: discovering deserts, coastlines, and wetlands by vehicle

Pack your vehicle, set up the roof tent, and embark on an adventure through Namibia’s deserts, dunes, coastlines, and rivers. With diverse landscapes and excellent weather year-round, Namibia is an ideal spot for adventurous road travelers.

Namibia’s arid landscapes may appear desolate, yet they are full of life. Microscopic lichen, nourished by ocean mist, thrive here, and the unique environment has led to the emergence of incredible species such as desert-adapted elephants, lions, and the remarkable Welwitschia mirabilis, a plant with only two leaves that can survive for centuries. Experience these wonders and more on some of Namibia’s top road trips.

1. Scenic dunes and desert views

Top road trip for stargazing

Windhoek to Sossusvlei; 395km (245 miles); plan for four days

If you can only manage one shorter road trip, the journey from the capital to Sossusvlei is perfect. Leaving Windhoek, the pavement quickly gives way as you travel southwest, passing by occasional padstals (farm stalls) and guest farms—sometimes featuring homemade biltong, bread, and even gin—before ascending the 1700m (5577ft) Spreetshoogte Pass. Take in the breathtaking views of the plains below from the summit of the pass.

Following a steep and winding descent, the next highlight is Solitaire. This crossroads settlement serves as an excellent starting point for exploring nearby Namib-Naukluft National Park and the coastal town of Swakopmund. But don’t hurry away: indulge in fat-biking, enjoy spectacular views toward the Naukluft Mountains, savor delicious apple crumble, and marvel at the starry night sky.

From Solitaire, travel south to Sesriem and the shady Sesriem Canyon, along with various nearby lodges. Depart early the next day before sunrise for Sossusvlei, a vast, occasionally water-filled pan surrounded by rust-colored dunes. Nearby is the breathtaking Deadvlei, an ancient white clay pan dotted with the skeletons of centuries-old camel thorn trees, framed by the towering Big Daddy dune—views from the top are unparalleled. Aim to arrive as early as possible to beat the scorching midday heat and to witness the changing colors of sunrise on the sand.

Tip for planning: Camping just inside the main gate at Sesriem or booking a lodge within the park will give you an hour’s advantage to climb the dunes and reach Sossusvlei before the sun rises high in the sky.

2. Etosha National Park, Damaraland, and the Skeleton Coast

Top road trip for wildlife enthusiasts

Etosha National Park to Terrace Bay; 500km (310 miles); plan for nine days

This less-traveled yet straightforward route from Etosha National Park through Damaraland to the Skeleton Coast showcases some of Namibia’s finest wildlife and most distinctive landscapes.

The southern Andersson Gate of Etosha National Park is the easiest access point when arriving from Windhoek. Rhinos are often seen at the nearby Okaukuejo waterhole, and you can enjoy impressive views over the shimmering, barren stretches of Etosha Pan.

Traveling southwest from Etosha via Khorixas leads you to the breathtaking rock formations of Damaraland. Keep an eye out for Welwitschia plants, which are unique to Namibia, and try to spot the area’s elusive desert-adapted elephants against the stunning rock backdrop. Don’t miss the Twyfelfontein rock engravings in central Damaraland. Other highlights include the petrified forest near Khorixas and Brandberg (Burnt Mountain).

Proceed west to the skull-and-crossbones sign marking Springbokwasser Gate, the entrance to Skeleton Coast National Park. This park is a must-see, featuring the tumultuous Atlantic waves on one side and stark desert landscapes on the other. Jackals and solitary hyenas are frequently spotted, while desert-adapted lions and the bleached bones of whales and seals—after which the park is named—are less common.

The scenery improves as you head further north along the coast, but a pre-arranged permit is needed to venture beyond the windswept fishing settlement of Terrace Bay into the remote areas leading to the Kunene River delta. Alternatively, you can drive south and exit the park at Ugab River Gate toward the Cape Cross seal reserve and Swakopmund.

3. Waterways of Northeastern Namibia

Top road trip for river cruises

Rundu to Katima Mulilo; 520km (323 miles); plan for five days

The Zambezi (Caprivi) region in northeastern Namibia, with its wetlands nourished by the Okavango, Chobe, and Zambezi rivers, offers a striking contrast to the rest of the country. Begin in the bustling regional hub of Rundu and head east, deviating from the straight main road to discover hidden gems. Highlights include charming riverside lodges and campsites, serene river cruises along the Okavango, and breathtaking sunsets over the marshes and waterways. Keep an eye out for elephants, hippos, and crocodiles during your river excursions.

As you approach the Zambian border, be sure to spend a night or two at one of the lodges or camps along the Zambezi River, just outside Katima Mulilo, to fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of this area. Katima Mulilo also serves as an excellent starting point if you wish to extend your journey into Botswana’s Chobe National Park or visit Victoria Falls.

Side Trip: If you have a few extra days, consider taking a detour to Victoria Falls—only a half-day’s drive from the far eastern reaches of the Zambezi.

4. Central Atlantic Coast

Top road trip for families

Swakopmund to Cape Cross; 130km (80 miles); plan for one day

Swakopmund is known as Namibia’s adventure hub. With options for quad biking, dune boarding, surfing, skydiving, and kayaking, it’s a hit among families and adventure enthusiasts. The town boasts a laid-back atmosphere and a variety of dining spots, including German-style bakeries. Just inland lies the surreal moon landscape.

From Swakopmund, the drive north along the coast to Henties Bay is straightforward and makes for a great lunch stop. About 15km (9mi) south of Henties Bay, be sure to visit the wave-battered wreck of the MFV Zeila, where Cape cormorants and other seabirds nest among its shattered rigging.

Just north of Henties Bay is Cape Cross, home to the Cape Cross seal colony. The incredible experience of being surrounded by over 100,000 barking and grunting Cape fur seals lounging on the rocks and playing in the waves is unforgettable. You’ll hear and smell the seals before you see them.

Side Trip: A well-maintained gravel road connects Henties Bay to the paved B2 highway heading toward Okahandja and Windhoek. Along the way, you'll encounter Spitzkoppe (1728m), known for its striking rock formations, hiking trails, and excellent camping opportunities.

5. Southern Namibia

Top choice for an active road trip

Windhoek to Noordoewer; 1260km (783 miles); allocate two weeks

Southern Namibia offers a unique landscape, making it worthy of several weeks of exploration. The region around Aus, located about 560km (348mi) south of Windhoek, is perfect for mountain biking. After some biking, continue 125km (78mi) west to the coastal town of Lüderitz, known for its penguin colonies, charming German-style buildings, and the nearby ghost town of Kolmanskop, which is slowly being reclaimed by the desert sands.

Enjoy your adventures, then take a drive for another 500km (310mi) to the stunning 160km-long (99mi) Fish River Canyon, which features a gorge up to 550m (1805ft) deep carved through the dry terrain of the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. View the canyon from above at Hobas or other viewpoints, and for the adventurous, consider a multi-day hike through its depths (available only in winter). Wrap up your journey with a canoe trip and camping beneath the stars near the border town of Noordoewer, about 160km (100mi) south along the Orange River's northern banks.

Driving tips for Namibia

Renting a vehicle, whether self-driving or with a driver/guide, is essential to access many regions of the country. Vehicle rentals are easy to arrange and generally affordable. The main roads are mostly well-kept.

Aside from the primary paved north-south and east-west routes, most roads in Namibia are gravel. While they are usually in good condition, be cautious of steep drop-offs, dongas (gullies), loose stones, slippery surfaces, and the potential for cattle and wildlife crossing the roads. When planning your journey, 80km per hour is deemed the maximum safe speed on gravel, though 50km per hour is often a more practical expectation.

Many roads are lightly trafficked, allowing for hours of driving without encountering other vehicles. Although fuel stations are available in all major towns, you’ll find nothing between them.

Rental cars typically include a variety of helpful gear, such as tire inflators, shovels, rooftop tents, and sometimes satellite phones. However, it's best to confirm this beforehand. Opting for a 4WD vehicle is advisable, and carrying additional water is recommended.