Back to Namibia: A Road Trip through Dunes, Starry Skies, and Unforgettable Encounters
December 2024 - With Family, Friends,
and a 4x4 Adventure
After years of designing dream trips for my clients, it was finally time to head back out on the road myself — destination: Namibia. In December 2024, the decision was made. I set off with my family and my childhood friend, joined by her children, for a self-drive adventure in a 4x4, rooftop tents, and camping gear ready to go. We headed south, where the landscapes make your heart race.
Bagatelle: First Steps into the Immensity of the Kalahari
Our first stop immersed us in the mesmerizing world of the Kalahari. Bagatelle, with its ochre dunes and sacred silence, instantly pulled us into the desert’s magic. In the golden light of late afternoon, a short safari gave us our first glimpse of wildlife, just before sundowners on top of the dunes. A timeless moment, where everything slows down — and you remember exactly why you travel.
Wolwedans Lodge: The Desert as You Dream It
Next, we made our way to Wolwedans Lodge, a gem tucked inside the NamibRand Nature Reserve. If I had to choose one place from all my travels, this might be it. Endless plains and mountain silhouettes stretch as far as the eye can see. Here, you're not just passing through a landscape — you're living it. Deep connection. Total isolation. Unfiltered beauty.
Sesriem: Ringing in the New Year Above Legendary Dunes
How to end 2024 on a high note? With a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the red dunes of Sossusvlei, of course.
It’s hard to put the experience into words. The crisp morning air, the shifting desert light, the absolute silence… You float above an ocean of sand, holding your breath. It was, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful moments of my life.
Swakopmund: Between Desert and Ocean
From there, the road led us to Swakopmund — a seaside town where the dunes tumble right into the ocean. It was time for a real break before hitting the dirt tracks again.
But that didn’t mean sitting still. We revved up for a desert quad bike ride, took a 4x4 excursion to Sandwich Harbour where the waves kiss the sand, and enjoyed some well-earned indulgences at a few great local spots.
Spitzkoppe: Sleeping under the Stars
Next stop: Spitzkoppe, one of Namibia’s most iconic spots. Towering rock formations, raw natural beauty, and — above all — one of the most breathtaking night skies I’ve ever seen.
We pitched camp, climbed the rocks to watch the sun dip behind the horizon, and ended the day with a campfire braai at the foot of our 4x4 before gazing up at the Milky Way. No artificial lights here — just the desert putting on its nightly show.
Okonjima: Sundowners with Leopards
To end our adventure, we made our way to Okonjima Nature Reserve, where we had one last unforgettable experience: leopard tracking.
And what a finale! From the comfort of our 4x4, we spent over half an hour watching a young leopard finishing its meal, perched high in a tree, while its mother waited patiently below for the leftovers. Raw. Powerful. Unforgettable.
A Country Too Vast for Just One Trip
The journey felt too short for a land so vast — but the memories are etched forever. One thing is certain: we’ll be back.
