A desert safari experience the whole family can enjoy.
Spot desert-adapted elephants and rhino, zebras, gazelle, lions and much more. Stay in family-friendly properties and discover a whole host of activities from sandboarding to kayaking.
Namibia is one of the best countries in Africa for a family safari. With the freedom to self-drive, a wide variety of landscapes and wildlife, and plenty of family-friendly lodges and activities, it’s a destination that appeals to both first-time safari-goers and seasoned travellers. From tracking cheetah in Etosha to kayaking with seals off the Skeleton Coast, there’s always something to keep curious minds engaged.
A major bonus for families is that much of Namibia is malaria-free, so there’s no need for anti-malarial medication in most areas – a real plus when travelling with younger children. The excellent road network and relaxed driving conditions also make self-driving straightforward and enjoyable, giving families the flexibility to travel at their own pace and stop when it suits them.
Namibia offers wildlife experiences without the crowds. Families can go at their own speed in Etosha National Park, with the freedom to explore in their own vehicle and linger at waterholes to spot elephants, lions and giraffe. Okonjima Nature Reserve is another standout, especially for younger children, with shorter activities and the chance to learn about conservation through up-close animal encounters.
No two days in Namibia are the same – which is perfect for families. The coastal town of Swakopmund is a hub for adventure, offering sandboarding, boat trips, desert tours and seal kayaking. Further south, climbing the towering dunes of Sossusvlei or meeting meerkats in the Kalahari are moments children will never forget. Guides throughout Namibia are brilliant at engaging kids of all ages, making safaris interactive and educational without being overwhelming.
Accommodation in Namibia is well set up for families, with many lodges offering larger rooms, two-bedroom suites, and kid-friendly dining. You’ll find comfort and quality without sacrificing the sense of adventure – perfect for a trip that balances relaxation with excitement.
I've spent time in Namibia - I'd love to help you plan your trip.
Classic Namibia Self-Drive
- Windhoek
- Okonjima
- Etosha
- Damaraland
- Swakopmund
- Sossusvlei
A self-drive journey through desert, dunes and wild-life rich wilderness.
Namibia Trip Inspiration
Our Namibia specialist, Ruth, says:
“I’ve been lucky enough to travel all over Namibia, and it’s a country that never fails to surprise me. The landscapes are like nowhere else - vast, cinematic and constantly changing - and the sense of space is incredible. It’s also one of the easiest and safest countries in Africa to explore independently, which makes it perfect for a self-drive or a tailor-made adventure. Whether you’re watching rhinos at a waterhole, climbing a dune at sunrise or sleeping under a sky full of stars, Namibia just gets under your skin in the best possible way.”
Speak to a Namibia expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Alistair
