Windhoek to Victoria Falls Road Trip Itinerary
This road trip is an amazing journey through Namibia and Zambia! Starting in Windhoek, Namibia and ending in Livingstone, Zambia, this trip covers a distance of 1746km and can be completed in 8 days. The route passes through the towns of Okaukuejo, Rundu and Victoria Falls, each offering unique attractions. Get ready to be mesmerized by the beauty of the landscapes and nature along the way. The roads are in good condition and suitable for any driver, while border-crossing is required along the route. This road trip is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable experience and memories, and can be managed with a moderate budget. The best time of the year to drive is from June to September. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for the road trip of a lifetime!
8
number of days
1,746 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the left
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Windhoek
Distance 1,746 km
Driving time 24.0 h
Pace: fast
523.8 kWh
Airports
WDH
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Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is an ideal starting point for the "Windhoek to Victoria Falls Road Trip". Located in a valley between the Khomas Highland and Auas Mountains, this vibrant city is a great place to start your journey.
As the cultural and economic hub of the country, Windhoek boasts a variety of attractions. The Christuskirche, a German-style church built in 1907, is one of the most popular sites in town. The Old Fort, a national monument built in 1890, is also worth a visit. The National Botanic Garden of Namibia, the Tintenpalast, and the Namibia Craft Centre are other local attractions.
For those traveling by air, Windhoek International Airport (WDH) is the closest airport, located about 4 miles from the city center. For those looking to explore Namibia by car, there are several car rental companies at the airport offering a variety of vehicles to suit any budget.
From Windhoek, the journey to Victoria Falls runs through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Along the way, travelers can explore the Fish River Canyon, the Kalahari Desert, and the Okavango Delta. With so much to see and do, this road trip is a must-do for any traveler looking to experience the beauty of Namibia.
1
Windhoek
- Etosha N.P.
- Okaukuejo
Distance 441 km
Driving time 5.6 h
Pace: fast
132.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Windhoek-Okaukuejo Road Trip! This 441 km journey will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes Namibia has to offer. Start your road trip in Windhoek and head north towards Etosha National Park. Along the way, take time to admire the picturesque landscapes of Namibia's savannah and bushveld. As you enter the park, enjoy the sight of the abundant wildlife and the vast salt pans that make up the park. Stop for a picnic and take some time to explore the park. After your visit to Etosha, continue your journey to Okaukuejo. On your way, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the savannah and the surrounding mountains. Once you reach Okaukuejo, you will be rewarded with a stunning sunset. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your Windhoek-Okaukuejo road trip!
Okaukuejo - Namibia - Africa - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Okaukuejo - Namibia - Africa - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Okaukuejo - Namibia - Africa - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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2
Okaukuejo
- Etosha N.P.
- Fort Namutoni
Distance 131 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: modest
34.2 kWh
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Embark on a captivating 131km road trip from Okaukuejo, Namibia to Fort Namutoni and be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes of the Etosha National Park. This journey will take you less than 3 hours, so make sure to take regular breaks to take in the beauty of the Namibian wilderness. As you drive along the road, you will be able to spot the various wildlife of the area, so keep your eyes peeled.
Once you reach the Etosha National Park, you will be able to experience the true beauty of the African savannah. Be sure to visit the Okaukuejo Waterhole, where you will be able to observe the many animals that come to drink and bathe. Then, make your way to the Halali Waterhole, where you can admire the majestic elephants and other large mammals. Finally, make your way to Fort Namutoni and explore the area's rich cultural heritage.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Fort Namutoni - Namibia - Africa - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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3
Fort Namutoni
- Rundu
Distance 423 km
Driving time 5.5 h
Pace: fast
127.0 kWh
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Welcome to the Fort Namutoni to Rundu road trip! This 423km drive takes less than 5 hours and is part of a larger tour. Start your journey in Fort Namutoni and explore the 19th century fort and its fascinating history. Don't forget to visit the nearby Etosha National Park, one of the most diverse wildlife sanctuaries in Africa.
Next, make your way to the Kavango region and experience the traditional culture of the local people. Visit the traditional villages, take a boat cruise on the Okavango River and explore the nearby Mahango Game Reserve.
Finally, end your journey in Rundu, a vibrant city on the banks of the Okavango River. Here you can visit the Rundu Museum and learn about the history of the city and its people. You can also explore the nearby Mahango National Park and spot some of the region's unique wildlife.
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!
Rundu - Namibia - Africa - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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4
Rundu
- Chobe N.P.
Distance 642 km
Driving time 8.0 h
Pace: fast
192.5 kWh
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Start your road trip in Rundu, Namibia, and head for the Kavango region. You’ll be driving 642 km, but with the beautiful scenery, it won’t feel like it. Along the way, you’ll pass through villages, riverbanks, and lush forests. Stop at the Popa Falls, where you can take a break and marvel at the waterfalls cascading down the rocks. Further down the road, you’ll find the Khaudom National Park, where you can spot some of Namibia’s iconic wildlife. Don’t miss out on the Mahango Game Reserve, where you can take a game drive and see the animals in their natural habitat. Finally, make your way to the Chobe National Park, where you can take a river cruise and watch the animals as they come down to the riverbanks to drink. The entire journey will take you less than 8 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the sights and sounds of this stunning region. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Chobe N.P. - Namibia - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Chobe N.P.
- Victoria Falls
Distance 94 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
24.3 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Chobe National Park in Botswana to Victoria Falls, just 93 km away. This drive will take you less than two hours, and will take you across the state border. Along the way, you will have the chance to explore the beauty of the Chobe National Park, renowned for its high concentrations of elephants and other wildlife. You will also have the opportunity to visit the nearby Kasane forest, a great spot for bird-watching. Once you arrive in Victoria Falls, you will be able to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the world’s largest waterfall. Here, you can take a thrilling bungee jump, or a peaceful sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Victoria Falls - Namibia - Africa - Road Trip - Tamuka Travel
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6
Victoria Falls
- Livingstone
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: slow
3.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Victoria Falls, Zambia to Livingstone? This 15 km drive, that will take you no more than an hour, will take you through the border of two countries, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
On your way, you can visit the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world and a must-see. The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is a spectacular game reserve with a wide variety of wildlife.
Once you arrive in Livingstone, you can explore the nearby game reserves, such as the Maramba Cultural Village and the Livingstone Reptile Park. The Maramba Cultural Village is an interesting place to learn about the local culture and the Livingstone Reptile Park is home to a variety of reptiles and birds.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an amazing journey from Victoria Falls to Livingstone!
Livingstone - Namibia - Africa - Road Trip - Victoria Falls Guide
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Livingstone
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Livingstone, Zambia, is the perfect ending point to the “Windhoek to Victoria Falls Road Trip”. This charming city offers a variety of attractions for the adventurous traveler. The most popular destination is Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Here you can witness the raw power of the Zambezi River as it plunges into the Batoka Gorge. Other attractions include the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, which hosts a variety of African wildlife, and the Livingstone Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the local people.
No trip to Livingstone would be complete without a visit to the bustling Victoria Falls Market. Here you can find a variety of goods, such as local crafts, carvings, and souvenirs. For the more adventurous traveler, it’s also possible to take a whitewater rafting tour down the Zambezi River.
The closest international airport to Livingstone is Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI). From the airport, it’s just a short drive to the city center.
Livingstone is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Zambia. With its stunning scenery, fascinating culture, and vibrant market, this charming city is sure to be a highlight of any road trip.
Windhoek to Victoria Falls Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Windhoek
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End:
Livingstone
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Distance:
1,746 km
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Stay:
8 days
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Getting there:
Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, August, September, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an extraordinary 8-day adventure covering 1746 kilometers from Windhoek, Namibia, to Livingstone, Zambia. As you traverse this expansive route, prepare to be captivated by spectacular vistas ranging from desert landscapes to lush riverbanks, encountering an array of wildlife and engaging with diverse cultures.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Windhoek: Namibia's bustling capital blends modernity with its German colonial past. Explore landmarks like the Christuskirche and Alte Feste, visit the National Museum of Namibia, and shop at local craft markets for authentic souvenirs.
- Okaukuejo: Situated in the heart of Etosha National Park, this area is renowned for its floodlit waterholes where you can witness a parade of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. The Etosha Pan, a vast salt flat, creates an eerie lunar-like landscape that's particularly striking during sunrise and sunset.
- Rundu: Known for its vibrant culture and artisanry, Rundu is a perfect stop to immerse yourself in the local Kavango culture. The town's proximity to the Okavango River provides opportunities for bird watching and enjoying serene river cruises.
- Victoria Falls: Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is a breathtaking spectacle of nature. With a width of 1.7km and a height of over 100 meters, it's the largest curtain of water in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The local name, 'Mosi-oa-Tunya', translates to 'The Smoke That Thunders', describing the spray and roar heard from miles away.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time for this Road Trip is during the dry season, from June to September, when waterholes in wildlife reserves become gathering spots for animals, making them easier to spot. The lower humidity and cooler temperatures also contribute to a more comfortable travel experience.
Potential Risks:
- Wildlife encounters can be a hazard on Roads near conservation areas; drive cautiously and follow park rules.
- Border-crossing procedures between countries require patience and proper documentation, including visas and vehicle paperwork.
- Varied Road conditions may include unpaved stretches; a reliable, well-equipped vehicle is recommended, ideally with 4-wheel drive.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Travel costs can be kept within a moderate budget, but planning for park fees, accommodations, and fuel is essential.
- The journey offers a unique combination of adventure, wildlife spotting, cultural interactions, and relaxation.
- English serves as a lingua franca in both Namibia and Zambia, easing communication hurdles for most travelers.
A good choice for:
This Road Trip is a mosaic of raw natural beauty, adrenaline-fueled activities, and cultural enrichment, catering to those who seek both serenity and excitement. With thoughtful preparation and respect for local customs and wildlife, you are set to forge a path full of extraordinary memories on this epic African journey.
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