Self Drive Namibia

A self-drive holiday in Namibia offers a great way to explore the country, and allows you to set the pace.

Scroll for more

Overview

Namibia self drive holidays - Gemsbok on a gravel roadSelf-drive in Namibia is one of the most rewarding ways to explore Namibia’s contrasting landscapes. If you are happy to drive on the left hand side of the road, without much traffic around. And on gravel road (as opposed to tar), then self-drive in Namibia is very do-able for many international visitors.

It is also one of the more economical ways to enjoy a Namibia safari trip. Private escorted tours are expensive because of the vast distances involved and guides in Namibia are well-educated, skilled workers.

On the other hand, small group scheduled tours travel at a pretty brisk pace to see the country's highlights in a very short period of time. Also -  in our opinion -  they often stay at larger, less interesting, hotels and lodges.

A happy medium could be to mix up some self-drive with some flying around the country (using Fly Namibia's schedule where available.) This allows you to get to the areas which are not accessible by flight. But also mixes it up a little.

Tips for Self Drive Namibia

Namibia self-drive - Etosha, White elephant walks on road of Namibia South Africa

  • Ideally you need to enjoy driving, and view the road trip as part of the whole adventure. Namibia is a vast country and its scenic delights marvels are spread throughout the country rather than conveniently located close to each other!
  • Preferably two people would share the driving.
  • Similarly, make sure that you have set aside enough time. We reckon on 3 weeks to see the highlights in both the north and the south. If you only have 2 weeks, you'll need to leave some places out. Or risk needing another holiday to recover from this one!
  • Why not mix some self-drive in Namibia with other modes of transport? For example, you could fly in and out of Sossusvlei by scenic charter flight. Then pick up a rental car in Swakopmund to continue. We especially recommend this if you're short on time.

It helps if you can change a tire, too. Punctures are not uncommon on gravel! (That's why we always recommend and book a second spare tyre for peace of mind.)

Do you need a 4 x 4 for a self-drive in Namibia?

What little rain the desert country of Namibia does get falls during the southern hemisphere summer months from November to March. (And mainly January to mid March.) So during this latter time we do recommend a 4x4 vehicle. But, at other times of the year, an SUV with high clearance will do just fine.

Namibia self-drive - Damaraland, Spitzkoppe

It’s important to work with an expert when planning a self drive tour to Namibia. Driving in Namibia takes longer than you might expect. So it's vital to know how far you can happily travel in enjoyment, rather than in exasperation. We provide detailed directions and a comprehensive itinerary for you.

Popular tours & safaris

Self drive Namibia | Namibia Self drive tours | Cedarberg Africa

Download our Free Guide to Car Rental in South Africa & Namibia

All you wanted to know about renting a car in South Africa or Namibia. Find out how easy it is, and what a great way to get around the country with our Frequently Asked Questions. Get our Free Guide
Find me the best in for
Impeccable
"Just a quick note to let you know we have arrived home safely and Sari and myself had a wonderful time in South Africa and your planning was impeccable. Overall you have done a wonderful job . It is highly appreciated and we are sorry we did not get a chance to meet you in Cape Town. " - Mrs Sara & Mr Andre, USA
I would only want to book through Cedarberg
"Thank you so much for booking this experience for us, Mari. Everything was so well organized and went so smoothly, from car rental and driving and hotel directions, to lodge details, inclusions, exclusions, etc. The link you gave us with all the details on the locations we were going to as well as the detailed itinerary and pre-departure information was very helpful. We’re grateful for your e ..." - Mrs Michelle B
It was a fabulous holiday
"I have booked through Cedarberg before and this is why I came back, as I was highly satisfied. This time it was a bit more complicated as Peter had less experience with Uganda himself and he had to communicate with Wildlife Frontiers a lot, which took time and some backwards and forwards. In the end it was so worth it, as it was a fabulous holiday. Peter also recommended the group experience an ..." - Mrs Monika Maintz
The trip was amazing
"I will write in detail about all the places. In the meantime, I just wanted to write you a quick note to say THANK YOU so much for putting a wonderful trip together for our family. From the beginning to the end the trip was amazing. I will highly recommend you to anyone in the future for South Africa. " - Mr Gord Dubey, USA
Delivered the goods
"Cedarberg took on board what we wanted and delivered the goods!! Accommodation everywhere was fantastic we couldn’t have asked for any more! Preferred safari at madikwe as saw loads more because the rangers could go off road, would definitely look at this type of safari next time. " - Mr Eastwood, UK
 
staff image

Ginny Russell

AFRICAN TRAVEL SPECIALIST

Hi I'm Ginny, I'm here to help you plan your ideal holiday experience GET IN TOUCH