Self drive guide to Namibia- the raw beauty, unique culture, and unforgettable landscapes.

Self drive guide to Namibia- the raw beauty, unique culture, and unforgettable landscapes.

Welcome to Namibia—a land of breathtaking landscapes, vast open spaces, and untamed beauty, perfect for a self-drive adventure like no other. This travel guide is your key to exploring Namibia’s dramatic deserts, wildlife-rich savannas, and rugged coastline at your own pace. From the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife of Etosha National Park and the mystical Skeleton Coast, a self-drive journey through Namibia offers an exhilarating mix of adventure and solitude, where every turn unveils a new wonder. With well-maintained roads, welcoming lodges, and endless horizons, Namibia is both accessible and awe-inspiring, ready to be discovered by the curious traveler who values freedom and discovery. Prepare to immerse yourself in Namibia’s raw beauty, unique culture, and unforgettable landscapes.
Updated ago
Save
Share

Namibia Overview

Namibia is a vast, awe-inspiring country in southwestern Africa, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and welcoming culture. Known for the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei and the eerie Skeleton Coast, Namibia spans over 824,000 square kilometers and is one of the least densely populated countries in the world, with around 2.5 million people.

A former German colony, Namibia was ruled by South Africa after World War I until it gained independence in 1990, making it one of the world’s youngest nations. Today, Namibia is a stable democracy, renowned for its conservation efforts, including the first country to include environmental protections in its constitution. With over 40% of its land devoted to national parks and conservation areas, Namibia offers a unique self-drive experience through vast, pristine landscapes, where history and natural wonders meet in unforgettable harmony.

Where to Start?

This guide is intended as a self drive guide with a mixture of camping and hotels starting in Windhoek 

However first things first- car hire!  I thoroughly recommend African Track based in Windhoek, they will deliver the car to the airport for you and give you a full run through of how everything works.  These vehicles come fully kitted with everything you need for camping, and driving around Namibia- but more about that later!

You need to make a decision if you want a roof tent, or a ground tent, personally I prefer a roof tent.  I adore waking in the morning and propping open the window and surveying the savannah around me, there is a certain romance that comes with a roof tent.

Buy to unlock full guide

Access all the local insights and recommendations from @emmasowden when you purchase this guide.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I'm Emma, a travel enthusiast with a love for luxury and a thirst for adventure. With years of globetrotting under my belt—from the icy expanse of Antarctica to the sun-soaked beaches of the Maldives—I’ve experienced the world in all its thrilling diversity, and now I’m here to help you do the same. I believe that travel should be more than just a holiday—it should be a story worth telling. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping champagne at the finest houses in France, setting sail on a luxurious cruise, or pushing your limits in the world’s most extreme marathons, I’ve got the expertise to make it happen. I’ve travelled alone, with friends, and as part of a couple, so I know how to plan trips that suit every style. Let’s create stories together that you’ll be sharing for years to come! ✨ Luxury Travel: From exclusive resorts to bespoke experiences, I’ll craft a trip that’s all about indulgence, comfort, and those little details that make it truly special. 🌍 Adventure Travel: Whether it’s overland camping in the wilds of Africa or a once-in-a-lifetime exploration to Antarctica, I’ll design an adventure that gets your heart racing and your spirits soaring. 💎 Hidden Gems: I’m all about finding those off-the-beaten-track treasures that turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. Think secret beaches, boutique hotels, and unique experiences that only a seasoned traveller knows. 💼 Personalised Planning: I understand that every traveller is unique. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple seeking romance, or a group of friends ready for fun, I’ll tailor your itinerary to your specific needs and desires. 🍷 Wine Tours: Discover the ultimate wine getaway with my expertly curated wine tours, get to  explore picturesque vineyards, savor exclusive tastings and immerse yourself in the rich flavors of local wineries. Welcome to Impala Adventures, where your next unforgettable journey begins! 🌍✈️
What's included
Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
22 places
22 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
11 photos
Beautiful, hi-res photos from the creator
3 links
3 links from the creator to go even deeper with more info
DESTINATION(S) COVERED
Namibia
FOCUSES AND THEMES
Couples
Backpacker
50+
Groups
Adventure
Outdoors
Van Life
Format
Itinerary
Itineraries typically include day-by-day plans, with food, lodging and activity recommendations for each day.
COMMON QUESTIONS
What is Thatch?
Thatch is an online marketplace that provides instant access to thousands of vetted local experts and premium travel guides - making it the easiest and most affordable way to take high quality trips with less stress. For travel creators (tastemakers, travel advisors, influencers and local experts) Thatch makes it easy to curate, publish, and sell digital travel guides, itineraries and personalized planning services.
What if I’m not satisfied with my purchase?
How do I access my purchased guides?
Can I access my guide offline?
How often are guides updated?
Can I request a personalized guide or itinerary?
Can I sell my own travel guides and itineraries?
Save for Later
Share
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Emma Sowden 2025 Help Privacy Terms Copyright Become a Seller Seller Academy About Careers Blog Explore Places