Explore deserts, canyons and game reserves
Climb sand dunes, see ship wrecks and go on safari on a tailor-made Namibia family holiday
Namibia is a superb choice for adventurous families. Its otherworldly landscapes, unique wildlife and smooth self-drive routes make exploring easy and exciting for travellers of all ages. From dune boarding and stargazing to tracking elephants in dry riverbeds, Namibia promises unforgettable moments without the crowds.
A Namibia family holiday is all about variety and freedom. Children will love climbing the giant red sand dunes at Sossusvlei, spotting seals and shipwrecks on the Skeleton Coast, or learning about ancient rock art in Damaraland. Etosha National Park is ideal for a first safari, with easy game viewing around its famous waterholes and a chance to see lion, rhino, giraffe and more.
With most of the country malaria-free, safe roads, well-run lodges and plenty of space to explore at your own pace, Namibia suits self-drives just as well as guided tours. Many camps welcome families with interconnecting rooms, child-friendly menus and flexible activities – so everyone can enjoy the adventure, together.
Wildlife sightings in Etosha and interactive conservation experiences at Okonjima offer close-up encounters, while desert adventures keep things fresh – from climbing the Sossusvlei dunes at sunrise to spotting meerkats in the Kalahari.
Swakopmund provides a perfect coastal break with kayaking, dune-boarding and quad biking, while comfortable, family-friendly lodges throughout the country offer two-bedroom suites and down-to-earth food. Add in warm hospitality, superb guides and the thrill of the open road – and Namibia really is a family safari like no other.
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:
“Namibia is one of my top picks for a family holiday. It’s safe, easy to get around, and packed with variety - from climbing dunes in Sossusvlei to spotting elephants in Etosha or searching for desert-adapted wildlife in Damaraland. The drives between places are part of the adventure, with landscapes that constantly change. Kids love the freedom and space, and parents appreciate the comfort and flexibility. It’s a brilliant destination for creating shared experiences that really stay with you.”
Speak to a Namibia expert today
and start planning your tailor-made vacation
Alistair
Ruth
Best places to stay in Namibia
Types of Namibia vacations
FAQs About Your Namibia Family Vacations Holiday
Planning a holiday to Namibia Family Vacations? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
Is Namibia a good destination for a family holiday?
Yes, especially for older children and teens who enjoy wildlife, wide-open spaces, and a sense of adventure. From tracking desert elephants to sandboarding near Swakopmund, Namibia offers an educational and exciting family holiday. Lodges are generally very welcoming to children.
What age is best for children to visit Namibia?
We’d recommend Namibia for children aged 7 and up. While the scenery is spectacular, there are long drives and limited entertainment outside the natural world, so it’s best suited to curious, independent-minded kids. Teenagers tend to love it.
Are there family-friendly lodges in Namibia?
Yes. Many lodges welcome families and offer larger rooms or family units. Some include activities tailored to children or more flexible schedules. Options like Okonjima, Erindi, and Sossusvlei Desert Lodge work well for family stays, as do some self-catering guest farms.
Are the drives between areas too long for children?
Distances can be long – sometimes five or six hours between regions – so it’s important to plan with enough stopovers and breaks. We’ll help tailor your route to keep it manageable and make sure each leg of the journey offers something engaging for children.
Can children go on safari in Namibia?
Yes, but age limits apply depending on the lodge. Some allow game drives from age six, others from eight or older. Private vehicles can often be arranged if you’re travelling with younger kids. Namibia’s wildlife viewing is less crowded than other safari countries, which helps families relax.
What activities are available for children in Namibia?
Highlights include tracking animals, climbing sand dunes, spotting flamingos, stargazing, quad biking, sandboarding, and meeting the local Himba or Damara communities. Many children also enjoy Swakopmund for its coastal activities and relaxed vibe.
Do we need any vaccinations for our children?
Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Namibia is not a high-risk malaria country, but parts of the north (including Etosha) may require precautions. We recommend speaking to a travel nurse or GP six weeks before departure.
Is the food suitable for picky eaters?
Yes – most lodges offer simple options like pasta, grilled chicken, or plain rice alongside local or international dishes. If your children have allergies or specific preferences, let us know and we’ll make sure the lodges are well prepared.
