Cheap camping tours in Namibia
Holidays can often come with a hefty price tag. But what if they do? Camping trips can emerge as the most budget-friendly vacation choice if you opt for simple activities and basic accommodations. Camping offers a wonderful way to enjoy a fantastic getaway without breaking the bank, making it one of the best value-for-money vacations.
Namibia stands out as an excellent destination, especially for first-time visitors to Africa. While it boasts European-style stores, services, and luxury amenities, it’s also renowned for its breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. This stunning country is home to some of the world’s most spectacular desert ecosystems, vast plains, towering mountains, and wildlife-rich savannahs.
Traveling on a budget in Namibia can pose challenges due to its vast distances, limited public transportation, and expensive lodging options. Backpacking across Namibia may be more challenging compared to Southeast Asia, but it’s certainly achievable! This budget travel guide for Namibia aims to cover as many activities and attractions as possible while keeping the budget-conscious traveler in mind throughout the journey.
Camping gear often used in Namibia
Camping vacations are undoubtedly a great experience, particularly for adventure enthusiasts, and Namibia is an ideal destination to organize one. Proper preparation is key to ensuring the success of your vacation, whether you’re exploring the remote areas of Skeleton Coast National Park, planning a self-driving safari in the renowned Etosha National Park, or simply enjoying the mesmerizing sunsets and massive dunes.
It’s crucial to stay organized by keeping track of everything you currently have and anticipating everything you’ll need along the way, whether it’s the vehicle you’re using, the rental equipment you’re securing, or the supplies you need to purchase at the supermarket beforehand. This applies to every aspect of your trip, from your transportation to acquiring rental equipment.
Is everything readily available?
Moreover, Namibia isn’t the type of place where you can easily find everything you need no matter where you are in the country. Once you depart Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, you’re essentially on your own, and finding non-essential items can be challenging since Windhoek is the only major city in the country.
But don’t worry, it shouldn’t be too difficult! When planning a camping trip in Namibia with your vehicle, renting a 4×4 vehicle from one of the many rental car companies offering rooftop tents is your best option.
These vehicles come fully equipped with everything you need for camping. Most rentals include not only tents, sleeping bags, and mats but also a complete camping kit with pots, pans, silverware, tables, chairs, and sometimes even salt, pepper, and oil.
Opting for this choice will make things easier for you in the long run. Setting up a rooftop tent is convenient; all you have to remember is where you placed everything others have borrowed from you. Additionally, consider bringing a small pillow, a blanket for chilly evenings, and a deck of cards for passing the time after the sun sets.
Vehicle rentals in Namibia
While most vehicle rental companies provide all the necessary cooking equipment, you’ll be responsible for bringing in all the ingredients for your meals and washing all the dishes afterward.
Some car rental companies also offer dishwashing supplies for their customers, but you can’t always count on this. It’s wise to be prepared for the worst-case scenario, even though most camping grounds have a cleaning area where you can access water, soap, and cleaning wipes. However, it’s best not to solely rely on this facility.
Moreover, cooking requires water, and you’ll need a small gas tank to boil water. Although this is usually included in the car, it’s advisable to double-check this information or even bring some extra petrol just in case one tank is not sufficient.
Camping in Etosha National Park
Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery as tall-necked giraffes stroll against the backdrop of the crimson setting sun, creating a picturesque vista. Our tour guide will take care of all the meals outlined in the itinerary, and we’ll provide all the camping equipment you need, including tents, pillows, and utensils. All that’s left for you to do is pack your bags, and we’ll be ready to embark on our journey.
Etosha National Park offers a variety of camping and lodging options to suit different preferences. Accommodation choices range from campsites and bush cabins to family chalets and luxurious lodgings. The park features six primary camping areas, each offering unique experiences and amenities. We’ll delve into the various types of accommodations available to visitors.
Operated by Namibian Wildlife Resorts, the government-backed program ensures high-quality wildlife resorts throughout Namibia. The six camps in Etosha are strategically located near the main park highways, making it easy to navigate during your stay. Additionally, you have the option to explore private lodges located near Etosha National Park on adjacent game reserves, adding to the diversity of your experience.
Camping in Sossusvlei
Sesriem camp stands out as one of the two campgrounds nestled within the Namib Naukluft Reserve, boasting 44 camping spots in total. Its prime location allows guests to embark on early morning drives to the dunes, providing unparalleled access to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, both located just sixty kilometers away from the campground.
Additionally, Sossus Oasis provides twelve opulent camping spots right outside the entrance of Namib-Nakluft National Park. The well-known Sossusvlei and the other attractions in the area are quite convenient to reach. Each tent site has its bathroom and shower facilities.