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HomeRoad TripsAfricaSouth AfricaNamibiaWindhoek Getaway
Free photo Kalahari Road Namibia Desert - Max Pixel

Windhoek Getaway Road Trip

Windhoek - Dordabis - Uhlenhorst - Mariental

Expect on your itinerary

Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Landscape Landscape
Security Security
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Windhoek Getaway Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages3 km349 h/stage2.1

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 Windhoek Getaway 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 108EUR drive & more 50EUR sleep & more 110EUR eat & more 96EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 256EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 364EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 162EUR drive & more 63EUR sleep & more 209EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 416EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 578EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 288EUR drive & more 88EUR sleep & more 374EUR eat & more 192EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 654EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 942EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 450EUR drive & more 100EUR sleep & more 110EUR eat & more 96EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 306EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 756EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Windhoek Getaway Itinerary

The Windhoek Getaway Road Trip is a great way to explore the beauty of Namibia. Starting in Windhoek, the trip will take you through the towns of Dordabis and Uhlenhorst, before arriving in Mariental. Along the way, you will be able to experience the stunning natural beauty of the region, as well as its rich cultural heritage. The trip is approximately 351 km and takes two days to complete. The best time of year to take the trip is during the dry season, from May to October. The roads are partly narrow, so caution should be taken when driving. Despite the poor road conditions, the trip is suitable for any driver, and can be managed on a reasonable budget. This road trip will give you a high level of experience and lasting memories.
number of days 2 number of days
route length 349 km route length
budget moderate budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Windhoek

Distance 349 km Driving time 6.3 h Pace: modest 90.8 kWh Airports WDH , ERS
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Windhoek is the capital of Namibia and the perfect starting point for the Windhoek Getaway Road Trip. Windhoek is a vibrant city with many exciting attractions. Visit the National Museum of Namibia, the Zoo Park and the Namibian Craft Centre to learn more about the culture and history of the country. For a bit of nature, take a trip to the Daan Viljoen Game Park, or explore the great outdoors at the nearby Gocheganas Nature Reserve. For a more urban experience, Windhoek has many shopping and dining options. The city has a variety of restaurants serving up local and international cuisines, as well as plenty of bars and clubs. Shopping in Windhoek is also an experience, with many malls and markets offering a range of goods. Travellers flying into Windhoek can use the Hosea Kutako International Airport (IATA:WDH). There are many car rental companies located at the airport to kick start the Windhoek Getaway Road Trip. With so many sights to see and experiences to be had, Windhoek is sure to be an unforgettable part of any journey.

1 Windhoek - Dordabis

Distance 93 km Driving time 1.3 h Pace: fast 27.8 kWh View map Itinerary
stretches of gravel road limited number of petrol stations not recommended for caravans scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on a road trip from Windhoek to Dordabis! This route is 94 km long and it will take you less than two hours to complete. You will be surrounded by picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and scenic roads. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for the amazing views. Make sure to fill up on gas before you set off, as there are limited gas stations on the way. This is just one part of a larger tour, so make sure to check out the itinerary for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy the journey!

2 Dordabis - Uhlenhorst

Distance 114 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: modest 29.7 kWh View map Itinerary
stretches of gravel road limited number of petrol stations scenic road camping sites
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Embark on a road trip from Dordabis to Uhlenhorst, a distance of 114 km, which will take you less than 4 hours to complete. On your way, be sure to take in the stunning views of the Namibian landscape. Make sure to fill up your tank in Dordabis, as there may not be many gas stations during the journey. As you drive, you will be able to take in the beauty of the Namibian countryside, with its rolling hills, rugged mountains and vast open plains. Along the way, you will pass through the towns of Kalkfeld and Otjiwarongo, where you can find a variety of attractions and activities. At the end of your journey, you will reach the town of Uhlenhorst, where you can explore the local markets and restaurants. This is just one of the many stages of your Namibian road trip and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So get ready to explore the Namibian countryside and have the adventure of a lifetime!

3 Uhlenhorst - Mariental

Distance 143 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: modest 37.1 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road inaccessible for caravans limited number of petrol stations scenic road sections of narrow road junction of road trips accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Uhlenhorst to Mariental! This 143km stretch of road will take you fewer than 5 hours to drive, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the sights along the way. We recommend taking a 4WD car to make the journey, as some sections may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Be mindful that there may be a lack of gas stations in this area, and some of the roads are narrow, so take your time and enjoy the scenic drive. There are plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, so make sure to check out the “Itinerary” for this stage for more information. Have a safe and fun journey!

  Mariental

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Mariental is a small but picturesque town located in the Hardap region of south-central Namibia. It serves as the perfect ending point for the Windhoek Getaway Road Trip, a scenic journey that takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the desert, bushveld, and savannah. The town itself has plenty to offer visitors, with a number of interesting attractions to explore. The Mariental Art Gallery is a great place to visit, showcasing the work of local Namibian artists. The town is also home to the fascinating Mariental Museum, which tells the story of the town’s history, from its early days as a colonial settlement to its present day incarnation. For those seeking a more active experience, Mariental also offers a range of outdoor activities. Take a guided tour of the nearby Fish River Canyon, or explore the stunning Namib-Naukluft National Park. The town is also home to a number of nature reserves and game farms, making it an ideal spot for wildlife watching. Mariental is easily accessible by car, but if you’re flying in, the closest international airport is Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), located just over 200km away. From there, you can rent a car and drive the rest of the way to Mariental. End your road trip in Mariental and enjoy the town’s many attractions and activities. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Mariental is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Windhoek Getaway at a glance

Before you set off

The Windhoek Getaway Road Trip is a captivating voyage across Namibia's heartland, showcasing a rich tapestry of awe-inspiring landscapes and a deep cultural tapestry. Setting off from Namibia's bustling capital, Windhoek, this Trip spans approximately 351 km and traverses quaint towns, each with its allure, before culminating in Mariental after two days of adventure.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

In Windhoek, travelers can absorb the unique blend of German colonial architecture and modern African influences. Moving beyond the capital, the journey takes you to Dordabis, known for its local crafts and leatherwork, while Uhlenhorst offers a glimpse into rural Namibian life. Mariental serves as a perfect base to explore nearby attractions such as the Hardap Dam, Namibia's largest reservoir, and the Kalahari Desert with its iconic red sands.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for the Windhoek Getaway Road Trip is from May to October, during the dry season. This period brings clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall, making it the most favorable for Road conditions and wildlife viewing.

Potential Risks:

Navigating through Namibia can present challenges such as narrow Roads and occasional poor Road conditions. It's important to remain vigilant, especially when driving on gravel Roads, and to ensure your vehicle is equipped for the journey. However, the route is navigable for drivers of all skill levels.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • Namibia is one of the least densely populated countries in the world, offering vast open spaces that make for an unforgettable Road Trip experience.
  • The country boasts some of the world's most ancient desert landscapes, including the Namib Desert, which is over 55 million years old.
  • Mariental is situated near the Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world, which can be included in your Road Trip itinerary.

A good choice for:

The Windhoek Getaway Road Trip is an immersive escapade that promises not just a journey across distances, but also a journey through time and culture. It provides travelers with a budget-friendly opportunity to connect with the raw beauty of Namibia and the warmth of its people, ensuring that the memories made will be cherished for a lifetime.

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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