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HomeRoad TripsAfricaSouth AfricaNamibiaNorth Namibia
Namibia

North Namibia Road Trip

Windhoek - Swakopmund - Palmwag - Opuwo - Epupa Falls - Ruacana - Fort Namutoni - Okaukuejo - Waterberg Plateau

Expect on your itinerary

Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Landscape Landscape
Wildlife Wildlife
Security Security
Culture Culture
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Beach Beach
North Namibia Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages9 km2,473 h/stage4.8

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a North Namibia Road Trip in Namibia?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 756EUR drive & more 338EUR sleep & more 737EUR eat & more 672EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,747EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,503EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,134EUR drive & more 450EUR sleep & more 1,474EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,932EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,066EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,016EUR drive & more 600EUR sleep & more 2,585EUR eat & more 1,344EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,529EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,545EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,150EUR drive & more 663EUR sleep & more 770EUR eat & more 672EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,105EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,255EUR
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North Namibia Road Trip Itinerary

The North Namibia Road Trip is an exciting journey through some of the most beautiful and untouched landscapes in the world. Starting in Windhoek, the road winds through Swakopmund, Opuwo, Ruacana, and Okaukuejo, covering a distance of 2473 km over 14 days. Along the way, travelers will see breathtaking views of the Namibian desert, the Kunene River, and the Etosha National Park. The best time to take this road trip is between June and August, when the temperatures are cooler. However, the roads in Namibia can be rough, so it is important to be aware of the overall poor road conditions before setting out. This road trip provides an unforgettable experience, and is suitable for all types of drivers. With a moderate budget, you can take in the stunning views and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, if you're looking for a unique adventure, the North Namibia Road Trip is for you.
number of days 14 number of days
route length 2,473 km route length
budget fair budget
good for explorer good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level high accident level

START Windhoek

Distance 2,473 km Driving time 42.8 h Pace: modest 643.0 kWh Airports WDH
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Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is the ideal starting point for the North Namibia Road Trip. Located in the Khomas Region, it is the perfect destination to explore the country’s beautiful landscape, wildlife, and culture. During your stay in Windhoek, make sure to visit the Christus Church, the Alte Feste, and the Tintenpalast building. The Christus Church is an iconic landmark of the city, built in the late 19th century, it is an architectural marvel. The Alte Feste, built in the late 19th century, is the former headquarters of the German Schutztruppe and has now been converted into a museum. The Tintenpalast building, also known as the Ink Palace, is the current seat of the Namibian Parliament. If you are traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Hosea Kutako International Airport (IATA: WDH). At the airport, there are car rental companies available, such as Hertz, Avis, and Budget. This is ideal for starting your North Namibia Road Trip, as you can explore the country at your own pace. Windhoek makes for a great starting point for a road trip to explore the beauty of Namibia. With its iconic landmarks, and car rental options at the airport, it is the perfect destination to begin your journey.

1 Windhoek - Swakopmund

Distance 369 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: fast 110.7 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Windhoek to Swakopmund? This 369 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, so you can make the most of your time and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Namibia. The first stop of your journey is the Windhoek city center, where you can explore the historical sites, such as the Christuskirche, the Alte Feste, and the Tintenpalast. Then you can drive to the Avis Dam, where you can enjoy a picnic and take some beautiful photos of the Namibian landscape. As you drive further, you will come across the Kuiseb Canyon, a stunning geological formation with stunning views. Make sure to take some pictures here! After that, you will reach the town of Walvis Bay, where you can take a boat ride and observe the local wildlife. The next stop of your journey is the coastal town of Swakopmund. Here, you can visit the Swakopmund Museum and learn about the local culture and history. You can also take a boat trip to the nearby Sandwich Harbour and observe the local birdlife. Finally, you can end your journey with a visit to the iconic Moon Landscape, an otherworldly landscape of sand dunes and rocky cliffs. Make sure to take some time to explore each of these amazing places and take in the beauty of Namibia. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Swakopmund - Palmwag

Distance 430 km Driving time 9.0 h Pace: modest 111.7 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Swakopmund to Palmwag, through the Skeleton Coast National Park. This 430 km journey takes no more than 9 hours, and is sure to be the highlight of your Namibian adventure. Along the way, you will be mesmerized by the spectacular scenery of the Skeleton Coast, with its vast desert landscapes and rugged coastline. Marvel at the wildlife and birdlife that inhabit the area, including the famous desert elephants of the Skeleton Coast. Take some time to explore the shipwrecks that are scattered along the coastline, and be sure to capture some amazing photos of the dramatic sunsets. As you make your way to Palmwag, be sure to keep an eye out for the stunning rock formations and the local Himba people. This is just a snapshot of what you can expect on this incredible journey, and more information can be found in the Itinerary of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

3 Palmwag - Opuwo

Distance 268 km Driving time 5.2 h Pace: modest 69.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Take your road trip to the next level with a journey from Palmwag to Opuwo. This 268 km route will take you fewer than 6 hours to complete, so make sure to plan your stops along the way. Begin your journey in Palmwag, a small village in the Damaraland region of Namibia. Visit the Palmwag Lodge, which offers a unique opportunity to see the desert-adapted wildlife of the area. Head further north and you will come across the Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park, where you can observe cheetahs in their natural environment. Continue on to the Petrified Forest, a geological wonder made up of fossilized tree trunks. Finally, you will reach your destination, Opuwo. Take a stroll through the town and visit the Opuwo Cultural Village, a living museum of the Himba people. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

4 Opuwo - Epupa Falls

Distance 174 km Driving time 3.8 h Pace: modest 45.3 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape
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Embark on an incredible road trip from Opuwo to Epupa Falls! This 174km journey will take you less than 4 hours, but you'll want to take your time to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and all the attractions along the way. Start off in Opuwo, the capital of the Kunene Region, where you can explore the Himba culture, visit the nearby hot springs, and admire the stunning views of the Kunene River. Continue your journey and take in the scenery of the Kaokoveld Desert on your way to Epupa Falls. Here you can enjoy the stunning views of the cascading waterfalls, go on a guided hike, and even take a dip in the refreshing pools. On your journey, be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife and the Himba settlements. This is just one of the many stages of an unforgettable road trip, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So pack your bags and get ready for a thrilling road trip from Opuwo to Epupa Falls!

5 Epupa Falls - Ruacana

Distance 163 km Driving time 4.8 h Pace: slow 37.4 kWh View map Itinerary
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Take your road-trip to the next level with an unforgettable journey from Epupa Falls to Ruacana! This 163km drive will take you less than 5 hours, and you will be able to discover the best of Namibia’s landscapes. Start your journey in Epupa Falls, where you will be amazed by the breathtaking views of the Kunene River. You can take a hike to the top of the falls and admire its spectacular waterfalls. Continue to the Himba villages, where you will have the chance to learn about the Himba culture. You can also explore the nearby mountains and get a glimpse of the wildlife. Your next stop should be the Kunene River, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. You can also go fishing or take a boat ride to explore the river. Finally, you will arrive at Ruacana, a small town with a beautiful lake. Here you can relax and take in the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. This is just one of the stages of your larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So don't forget to check it out!

6 Ruacana - Fort Namutoni

Distance 339 km Driving time 5.5 h Pace: fast 101.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Ruacana to Fort Namutoni? This 339km drive will take you fewer than 6 hours, and you can expect to be amazed by the stunning landscapes of Namibia. Start your journey in Ruacana, a small town located on the banks of the Kunene River, and take a break to admire the Ruacana Falls, the second largest waterfall in Africa. Then, make your way to the Etosha National Park, where you can observe the incredible wildlife, including the Big 5, and enjoy the beautiful sunsets. Continue your journey to Fort Namutoni, where you can explore the remains of the historic German fort and gaze upon the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. For a unique experience, take a guided night drive and spot the nocturnal animals of the area. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

7 Fort Namutoni - Okaukuejo

Distance 132 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: modest 34.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape
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Start your incredible road trip in Fort Namutoni in Namibia! You will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes along the 132 km route that takes less than three hours to complete. Drive through Etosha National Park and observe the incredible wildlife that inhabits this area. Make sure to take some pictures at the many waterholes, where you can spot elephants, rhinos, lions and more! End your journey in Okaukuejo, a great spot to relax and admire the beauty of the African savannah. Along the way, make sure to stop at the most interesting places and take in the breathtaking views. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

8 Okaukuejo - Waterberg Plateau

Distance 290 km Driving time 4.1 h Pace: fast 87.0 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip? Start your journey in Okaukuejo, Namibia and make your way to the Waterberg Plateau, 290 km away. This journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to take in the sights. On the way, you'll be treated to some of the most picturesque landscapes and views you've ever seen. Make sure to take lots of pictures and keep your eyes peeled for unique wildlife. The Waterberg Plateau is a sight to behold. Its unique geological formations and diverse wildlife are sure to astound you. Make sure to explore the area and take in the breathtaking views. You'll be able to find plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the way. This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, so make sure you've got all the information you need for the rest of your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an incredible journey and enjoy the stunning views along the way!

9 Waterberg Plateau - Windhoek

Distance 309 km Driving time 4.3 h Pace: fast 92.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Embark on a road trip from the Waterberg Plateau in Namibia to Windhoek and experience a journey of a lifetime! You will be amazed by the unique landscapes, spectacular wildlife, and historical sites. The trip is only 309km and it will take you less than 5 hours to reach Windhoek. The Waterberg Plateau is a great spot to start your journey. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a variety of wildlife. Make sure to take some time to explore the area before you continue your journey. As you make your way to Windhoek, you will pass several picturesque landscapes. Keep an eye out for the Mariental Mountains, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area. You will also pass by the Hardap Dam, which is an important source of water for the region. Once you reach Windhoek, you can explore the city’s historical sites and its vibrant culture. Don’t forget to visit the Christuskirche, which is the oldest church in the city. There are also several museums and galleries to explore. This is just one stage of your journey, so make sure to take in as much of the scenery as you can. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip and have a safe journey!

  Windhoek

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Windhoek - the final destination of the "North Namibia Road Trip"! This vibrant capital of Namibia is the ultimate gateway to the country, as it is well connected by air, rail and road. Located in the central highlands of Namibia, Windhoek is an ideal base for exploring the spectacular landscapes of the country. This city is filled with fascinating historical and cultural sites, with the Alte Feste being one of the most famous landmarks. This fort was built in 1890 by the Germans and is now a museum showcasing the history of the country. For a great view of the city, the Christuskirche is a great spot. This iconic Lutheran church was built in 1910 and stands tall in the city center. The National Botanical Garden of Windhoek is also a great place to visit with its beautiful gardens and a variety of plant species. The city also has a lot of shopping and dining options, with the Independence Avenue being a great place to shop for souvenirs and traditional crafts. For a great dining experience, the Joe’s Beerhouse is a must-visit. The closest international airport to Windhoek is Hosea Kutako International Airport (IATA: WDH). This airport has direct flights to many countries, making it a convenient way to enter the country. So, if you are looking for an amazing road trip experience in Namibia, the "North Namibia Road Trip" is the perfect way to see the country, ending with a memorable stay in Windhoek.

North Namibia Road Trip at a glance

The above tour will become an ideal inspiration for your future travels.
Our tour can be used as a base that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original stopovers of your choice.
If car travel is a means of travel that you prefer, you probably wonder about things to keep in mind while behind the wheel. These tips will surely become useful for tourists who are interested in car hire or camper rental.
There are a number of traffic rules to be mindful of while driving around Namibia. To be on the safe side, try avoiding alcoholic beverages at any cost. Tourists ought to remember that the amount of alcohol that can be consumed is low and amounts to only 0.5‰. When it comes to travelling inside the cities, it is best to never exceed 60km/h. When travelling in non-build-up areas, you should stick to the maximum car speed of 120km/h. Avoid driving faster than the maximum speed of 120km/h when driving on motorways. In order to stay safe, we recommend driving with your headlights on at daytime and equipping your car with a first aid kit and fire extinguisher.
But what are the costs of the whole trip. Well, depending on your needs, the amount of money that you have to pay may vary. A wide range of budget possibilities is presented below.
We estimate that the cheapest option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 10 stages while travelling around Namibia can cost roughly 338 EUR. Economy accommodation options may cost you around 737 EUR. If the this option is your target, you should be prepared to spend around 672 EUR on food and restaurants. Travellers will have to pay approximately 756 EUR if they aim for the budget car hire option as well. Thus, you can expect the travel expenses to be around 1,747 EUR without vehicle hire and 2,503 EUR with vehicle rental.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 450 EUR on the gasoline needed to cover the trip. If you are into standard accommodation options, you should bear in mind that the expenses may amount up to more or less 1,474 EUR. Drivers may expect that the standard option in terms of restaurants and food will cost approximately 1,008 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a standard hire vehicle should expect a cost of around 1,134 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total roughly 4,066 EUR for holidaymakers who would like to try car hire and 2,932 EUR for those who are not interested in rental.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will meet the expectations of the most demanding holidayers. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay approximately 6,545 EUR for the whole road trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle rental will spend roughly 4,529 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a premium hire vehicle should expect a cost of approximately 2,016 EUR. In the premium option of the adventure, you have to spend the maximum of 600 EUR on the gasoline needed to cover the trip. Drivers who will go for top services in all aspects of their trip should expect to pay around 1,344 EUR for restaurants and food and about 2,585 EUR for accommodation options.
Our tour will also be superb for all camper enthusiasts, as it can be easily adjusted to their expectations. If you choose this travel option, it costs approximately 3,150 EUR. If you are wondering about the gasoline costs for the whole road trip, they will amount to around 663 EUR. Drivers who are interested in camper hire should expect to pay about 770 EUR for overnight stays and approximately 672 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section presents all the presented details in an easy to follow way.
The part of Namibia showed in our adventure idea is perfect to be visited between August and April. If you like North Namibia Road Trip, you should definitely check out other beautiful scenic drives and road trips that are available on our website. The great diversity of ideas will surely meet the expectations of the most demanding travellers.

Facts for safer driving in Namibia

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 120 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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