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Photo-Ventures Namibia

Walvis Bay | Erongo Region | Namibia
 
Contact Person: Herman Neethling | Position Held: Owner
Address: Corner Union and 5th Roads, Walvis Bay, Erongo Region, Namibia
Telephone : +264 (0)812757340 | Mobile : +264 (0)811286713 | Fax :
General Information
Office Opens:
08:00
 
Office Closes:
17:00
 
Children Policy:
Children of all ages welcome
 
Language Spoken:
  • Afrikaans
  • English
 
 
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Tour Capacity:
 
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Tour Operates In:
  • Caprivi Region
  • Erongo Region
  • Hardap Region
  • Karas Region
  • Kavango Region
  • Khomas Region
  • Kunene Region
  • Ohangwena Region
  • Omaheke region
  • Omusati Region
  • Oshana Region
  • Oshikoto Region
  • Otjozondjupa Region
 
 
Map Location
Latitude: -22.97085 | Longitude: 14.49935
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Company Desciption
Photo-Ventures Namibia was established two years ago by Herman Neethling, and is registered as a closed corporation as well as with the Namibian Tourism Board as a Tour Operator. The business focuses on providing educational, photography and sightseeing tours in the Namib Desert as well as ocean excursions.

Our tours are not adrenaline rides and we do not condone wild and reckless driving in the desert areas. We also ensure that we do not drive in vegetated or environmentally and culturally sensitive areas. Visitors also walk on certain parts of the track, and no vegetation, fauna or other features in the desert are disturbed, moved or picked up. Our tours concentrate on the photographic and educational elements of the desert.

Realizing the need for centralized information about tourism activities in the Walvis Bay district, Photo-Ventures setup a tourist information centre as part of their tour booking office. The centre has been completed to the tune of more than N$2 million and is located at the south end of Union Rd, Walvis Bay. Since its inception the centre has become the first stop for all visitors and tourists seeking information about Walvis Bay. The centre is being expanded and houses the information centre, a booking office, a coffee shop, a cultural office as well as office space for other tourism operators.

Services:
Photo Ventures Namibia provides tailor-made educational, environmentally-friendly, controlled and guided Photographic and Scenic tours in the Kuiseb delta and Namib Desert Areas. These tours are not adrenalin rides, and every care is taken to ensure that the tour has little to no impact on the environment. This not only creates more awareness of the unique environment of the delta and the Namib Desert, but presents photographers from all over the world an opportunity to take breathtaking photos. This promotes Walvis Bay and by extension Namibia as an eco-tourism destination. Photo Ventures Namibia is committed to responsible tourism, and nature conservation through sustainable exploitation of natural resources.
Tour Type
  • 4x4
  • Canoeing
  • Countryside
  • Cultural/ Township
  • Fishing
  • historical
  • Photographic
 
Tour Package(s) Explained
The Topnaar drive is a 2-3 hour scenic and educational drive. Depart from the Photo Ventures office and our first stop is the Walvis Bay Lagoon. A must for the keen birder. More than a hundred bird species and the biggest population of flamingos in Southern Africa. Our next stop is the Walvis Bay Salt works, colors, colors, colors…

This also is our first introduction to dune driving, an unforgettable experience of which you would still talk about for the rest of your holiday. The package offered is scenery, adventure, traditional people wildlife and a million and one photo opportunities.

And last but not least, the Topnaar tribe, a semi nomadic tribe, offshoot of the Nama tribe, part of the Khoisan genetic group. There are 2 Topnaar groups, the Southern ‡Aonin group and the Northern !Gomén group. The !Gomén Topnaars settled close to Sesfontein and the ‡Aonin Topnaars at the mouth of the Kuiseb River. They lived a life that relied on herding goats, but also adapted to the dry coastal desert environment of the Namib. The relatively rich plant life of the Kuiseb River valley provided them with additional sources of food, particularly the well-known !nara melon.

Topnaar Quadbike Tour

The Topnaar route is a 2 hour scenic and educational drive. We depart from the Photoventures office which would give you the chance to get used to the quads before we get to the dunes. It would take approximately 3-4 minutes to reach the dunes. Once we reach the dunes, a whole new world opens up. Beautiful landscapes, magical colours and the unbelievable life of animals and people and there survival in the desert.

This tour would offer you an unforgettable experience of which you would still talk about for the rest of your holiday. The package offered is scenery, adventure, traditional people wildlife and a million a and one photo opportunities.

What is to be seen on route:

Abundance of birdlife at the Walvis Bay Lagoon. And if lucky,the Dunelark in the dunes.
Ancient animal footprints from the time when the Kuiseb Delta had a lot more water.
Desert vegetation, plants adapted to survive in extreme conditions and plants known as the survival of the Namib, the !nara melon.
Wildlife, not the Big Five but a very interesting Small Five. Lizards, geckos, scorpions, snakes and many more.
A 50km scenic 4×4 drive takes you to one of the most photogenic places in Namibia. A place with red beaches and waves running up dunes depending on the tide. On windy days, the sand plays patterns on the dunes and during late afternoons the shadows change it to one of the seven natural wonders on earth. Sandwich Harbour is a natural bay that has awed and inspired many a visitor and traveler. With its rolling dunes falling into the ocean and the large lagoon, this unspoiled bay is a haven for birds and marine life, while creating the most amazing feeling of grandeur and beauty in such a stark environment.

The bay also has a very interesting history when Namibia was still known as South West Africa and a German Colony, but that we will share with you when you join us on visit to Sandwhich Harbour.

Enjoy lunch with a glass of wine or a ice cold beer on top of a dune overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The secret is Peace, tranquility and timelessness.

What to see on the route:

We depart from the Photo Ventures office at 8-30 and our first stop is the Walvis Bay Lagoon, a Ramstar site with a abundance of birdlife. Known for its big population of Flamingoes. Your guide will point out the different birds. From there we depart to the top of a dune overlooking the salt mine… colours, colours and more colours!!! After our stop we drive through the Kuiseb delta,a dry river covered with hardy vegetated desert vegetation changing to open salt pans until we reach the Namib Naukluft Park Border.

Our first interdiction to the Atlantic Ocean. From here we stick to the beach and stop at all interesting sightings, fisherman, birds, shells, seals and many more…

As we continue driving the dunes move closer to the ocean until a experience of a lifetime, DUNE DRIVING. Up to 45m dunes.

Other sights:

Ample Bird life and if lucky the Dunelark
Black-back Jackal
Springbuck
Ostrich
And a variety of desert adapted plants
Eco Marine Kayak Tours specializes in tours to Pelican point, visiting the Cape Fur Seal colony, accompanied by dolphins, pelicans, cormorans and other friendly marine and birdlife. All tours start early in the morning, due to the fact that the prevailing weather conditions in Walvis Bay offer a calm period up to about 1pm.

The early afternoon sees the start of increasing strength winds from the south west, this makes kayaking very uncomfortable in the Bay. Starting promptly each morning helps us cover the full range of sights to be seen.

Pelican Point Tour

Experience the 40km drive with Jeanne in her own 4×4 (the Kayak Mobile) to Pelican Point across the oceans’ edge of the Namib Desert.
Here we start kayaking past the lighthouse, around Pelican Point to the seal colonies.
Excellent bird viewing is available, delightful seals, and Heavyside Dolphins come to play around your kayak.
Duration : 5 hours – kayaking 2 – 2.5 hours
Departure time : 07.45 am. This early start is to allow for the fact that the wind in Walvis Bay tends to start to increase during the late morning early afternoon and an early start allows for maximum kayaking time.
Kayaks : singles and doubles
Departure Point : Mola Mola Safaris – coffee shop (Dolphin Cafe, corner of Esplanade and Atlantic Street, Walvis Bay)
Minimum number 2 – Maximum number 12
No prior kayaking experience is necessary
Refreshments provided : Tea, coffee & brötchens (sandwiches)
Situated along the central coast of Namibia is Dune 7, the highest dune in the coastal dune belt, it is situated 10km outside the town of Walvis Bay. The local municipality has planted palm trees and erected toilets and barbeque sites, fresh water is also available, it is the only man-made oasis in the dune belt.

This site is therefore perfect for sandboarding tours, the dune is approximately 130m high and has a very steep slip-face consisting of soft powder like sand, ideal for sandboarding. A quad bike is used to shuttle boarders to the top of the dune again and again. (like a ski-lift). All gear, drinks, fruit and a quad bike is supplied. No experience is needed and you will be instructed by a professional instructor.

If you have old bindings and soft snowboard boots bring them along and we will take you sandboarding free of charge!
Sit back and enjoy breathtaking views while dolphins swim alongside the boat, inquisitive pelicans fly alongside ready for inspection. Just as you relax a seal jumps onboard for a bite to eat in exchange for some great entertainment. The greatest asset of this tour is your tour guide as Levo believes in personal one-on-one contact and we guarantee your guide will put a smile on your face.

We further treat you with fresh oysters, champagne, beer, cooldrinks / juices and snack platters. Although we guarantee an exhilarating experience, we do not enter rough seas.

Operated Daily: Monday – Sunday
Depart: 08h30 [Walvis Bay Tanker Jetty]
Return: 12h30 [Walvis Bay Tanker Jetty]
This tour takes place during the mornings, due to possible windy conditions in the afternoon.
The Namibian Coast is world renowned for commercial fishing industry as well as its recreational angling spots. Anglers from all over the world flock to the coast to try their hand at fishing, whether from a ski boat or from the beach. Many anglers are tempted to wrestle with a the strong Bronzy Whaler or Copper Shark or to catch the largest cob (kabeljou).

Depart: 08h00 [Swakopmund Mole – You will be collected at your accommodation establishment]
Return: +- 15h00
This tour is ONLY available during November to March. Snoek and Yellow Tail are caught approximately 40 – 60km from shore.
All fishing gear, bait and tackle are provided. Lunchboxes and refreshments included. Enjoy the perfect angling experience.

Beach Fishing

Depart: 08h00 [You will be collected at your accommodation establishment]
Return: +- 15h00
This tour takes place between Swakopmund and Mile 108.
Different species can be caught such as Kabeljou, Steenbras, Blacktail and Galjoen.
A variety of shark such as Coppershark (weighing up to 160kg), Spotted Gully Shark and Hound Shark can be caught.
Edible fish caught are cleaned and packed for you to take along and enjoy. All fishing gear, bait and tackle are provided.
Lunchboxes and refreshments included. Upon request, we also cater for a small informal beach braai. Nothing beats the taste of a freshly caught fish on the grill.
Day 1 Windhoek

Upon your arrival at the international airport you will be met by your guide who will give you more information about the tour. There after you will travel through mountains to Windhoek the capital city of Namibia where your accommodation has been reserved for you on your behalf. You will enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants or at your hotel. Windhoek is often described as a city with a ‘continental atmosphere. This can be described to its architecture-historical buildings dating back to German colonial rule – as well as to its cuisine, culture, dress codes and educational institutions. At the same time Windhoek has the colour, sounds and tempo of a modern African city.

Day 2 Kalahari Desert
This morning after breakfast you will be travelling to the Kalahari Desert.

Day 3 and Day 4 Fish River Canyon
Today after breakfast you will be driving Deep South to the fish River Canyon where you accommodation for the following two nights is situated. The fish river canyon is the second-largest natural canyon in the world. Set in a harsh, stony plain, dotted with drought-resistant succulent such as the distinctive quiver tree or kokerboom, aloe dichotoma, and Euphorbia Gregaria, the canyon is a spectacular natural phenomenon that took 100 of millions of years to evolve. While is full length is 160 km – the width is up to 27 km and deep to 550 m – its most spectacular section is the 56-km stretch between the northernmost and southern most viewpoints.

Day 5 Luderitz
Today after breakfast you will be travelling to Luderitz where your accommodation has been reserved for you on your behalf. Luderitz was initially referred to as Agra Pequena, meaning little Bay, by the Portuguese, whose navigator Bartolomeu Diaz erected a stone cross on Dias Point on 25 July, 1488. Heinrich Vogelslang, agent of the German merchant from Brement, Adolf Luderitz, landed at Angra Pequena on 9th April, 1988, to establish a trading station. Following the negotiation with the Khoekoe chief, Josef Fredericks from Bethanie, he purchases the land within an 8 km radius of Angra Pequena. In April 1884 this lad became part of the Protectorate of the German Empire, making the beginning of German colonial control in Namibia, referred o then as Deutsch-Suidwest-afraka

Luderitz is renowned for its old-world charm and distinctly German colonial architecture. Set around the bay with their gables winding stairs, verandas, turrets and bay and bow windows, buildings have a unique character all of their own. One of the most striking is Goerkehause built in 1909on the slope of Diamond Mountain. Dinner can be enjoyed at one of the local restaurants.

Day 6 & 7 Sossusvlei Region

This morning after breakfast you will travel to Sossusvlei where your accommodation for the two nights has been reserved for you. Many people say that no part of the desert is visually more stunning than Sossusvlei with its monumental high dunes. Dinner will be served at the hotel

The following morning after breakfast you can visit the Dead Vlei. Dead Vlei is an old salt pan named for its eery dead appearance in the Namib Desert which had no water since the river changed its course. The old acacias died 500 years ago, but as there is no humidly in this place, they did not rotten, forming a dead forest. In the late afternoon you will visit then Sesriem Canyon, Walking through the canyon takes you on a journey back to 10-20 million years ago, when sedimentary layers of gravel and sand were deposited and cemented together by lime. The ledges are now inhabited by pigeons, raucous pied crows and chattering starlings. But look a little higher and you might see a lanner falcon or the soaring spread of a lappet faced vulture with a wingspan of 2.6m.

Day 8 & 9 Swakopmund

This morning you will travel through the Gaub and Kuiseb Canyon, you can visit the Vogelfederberg before traveling to the coastal town of Swakopmund where your accommodation for the night has been reserved for you. Swakopmund is much loved by Namibians as a welcome respite from the heat of the interior. It is also popular amongst visitors because of its old-world charm and relaxed atmosphere.

The following morning after breakfast you can take part in one of the many activities that are offered in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay area. These activities ranges from dolphin cruises, quad bikes, sand boarding, and sandwich harbor tour and paragliding; thereafter you can spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 10 Damaraland

Encompassing a vast area of 4.7 million hectares Damaraland (Kunene province) is located in north western Namibia. It enfolds an area of looming mountains, rugged valleys and basalt strewn plains. The magnificent raw and untamed quality of its landscapes is reflected in its flora and fauna. Once a part of colonial Etosha, or the unimaginative “game reserve number 2″, Damaraland has gained recognition as the success story of community based conservation in Namibia. The game depicted in ancient rock art has returned to this dramatic landscape. The delightful springbok, shy steenbok, elegant kudu and feisty mountain zebra, as well as the oddly-out-of-place giraffe, all call this immense place home. Desert adapted elephant are dwarfed against the towering mountains and the only population of free-ranging (found outside a national park) black rhino seem perfectly at home in this ancient land. An amazing assortment of deadly and dangerous plants add to the variety!

The stark bottle tree stands highlighted against the perpetually blue horizon while the sesame trees seem to stretch to the sun. The poisonous euphorbia is dotted across the landscape while the elegant makalani palms indicate secret water sources and the ancient paths of the pacyderms. High concentrations of iron oxide taint the basalt a deep red and in the early morning and late afternoon the sun set the landscape ablaze. The stunning beauty, the feeling of infinity, the majestic creatures and incredible landscapes create an unforgettable experience called Damaraland.

Day 11

This morning after breakfast you will travel further north, along huge lichen fields to Cape Cross, a fur of seal reserve where at times over 80 000 animals frolic in the waves of the Atlantic. Thereafter you will continue via the Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain, into the Damaraland. Thereafter you continue your journey into the heart of Damaraland. Damaraland is one of the most scenic areas in Namibia, a huge, untamed, ruggedly beautiful region that offers the more travelers a more adventurous challenge. Here there are prehistoric water courses with open plains and grassland, massive granite koppies and deep gorges. Towards the west, the geography changes dramatically with endless sandy wastes, that incredibly are able to sustain small, but wide-ranging, populations of desert-adapted elephant, black rhino, giraffe, ostrich and springbok. These animals have adapted their lifestyles to survive the harshness of the sun-blistered, almost waterless desert spaces. Elephant move through euphorbia bush country, and can travel up to 70km in a day in search of food and water and unusually, do not destroy trees in their quest for food.

Day 12 – 14 Etosha National Park
This morning after breakfast you can visit the Twyfelfontein Rock engravings. The name means ”Doubtful fountain” as was given by local farmer who was in doubts that a spring which existed in the area can support cattle for a long enough time. Twyfelfontein is the largest known concentration of Stone Age petro glyphs in our country. Although the area was declared a national monument in 1952 some engravings were damaged and even removed. There are approximately 2 500 engravings around Twyfelfontein. The age of engravings has not been determined precisely but there is evidence that area was occupied as early as 6 000 years ago. You can also visit the Burnt Mountain, Petrified Forest and the Organ Pipes, all geological phenomena depicting the creation and evaluation of landmasses. There After you will travel to Etosha National Park where your accommodation for the night has been reserved for you on your behalf. Dinner will be enjoyed at the lodge.

The following morning after breakfast you can enter the Etosha National Park. Etosha National Park is one of Southern Africa’s finest and most important Game Reserves. Etosha Game park was declared a National Park in 1907 and covering an area of 22 270 square km, it is home to 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish.

Etosha, meaning “Great White Place”, is dominated by a massive mineral pan. The pan is part of the Kalahari Basin, the floor of which was formed around 1000 million years ago. The Etosha Pan covers around 25% of the National Park. The pan was originally a lake fed by the Kunene River. However the course of the river changed thousands of years ago and the lake dried up. The pan now is a large dusty depression of salt and dusty clay which fills only if the rains are heavy and even then only holds water for a short time. This temporary water in the Etosha Pan attracts thousands of wading birds including impressive flocks of flamingos. The perennial springs along the edges of the Etosha Pan draw large concentrations of wildlife and birds.

On the thrid day of the Etosha leg you will travel to the eastern part of the National Park. In the eastern and central part of Etosha National Park it is mostly flat and so with practice it is easy to spot a variety of plains game. Most commonly seen are the elephant, Damara dik-dik, giraffe and large herds of Burchell’s zebra. Etosha is also known for its good numbers of lion. If there have been good rains, the Etosha pans may attract flamingos from the coastal areas, teal and various wading birds. Raptors such as the bateleur eagle, pale chanting goshawk and red-necked falcon are fairly common.

Day 15 End of Tour
This morning after breakfast you will be driving back to Windhoek where the tour will end. You will be dropped off at the international airport for your departure flight.
Day 1 Swakopmund
Upon your arrival at the international airport you will be met by your guide who will give you more information about the tour. Thereafter you will proceed to the coastal town of Swakopmund, where you will spend the night.

Today this quaint desert town, hedged by desert and sea, is enhanced by lush green lawns, palm trees and carefully tended public gardens. It has a wide choice of hotels, pensions and restaurants, and several coffee shops. The coast with its desert hinterland offers many options, both for adventure and for relaxation. Swakopmund is much loved by Namibians as a welcome respite from the heat of the interior. It is also popular amongst visitors because of its old-world charm and relaxed atmosphere. Founded in 1982 during German colonial, it served as the territory’s main harbor for many years. You can take part in optional activities that Swakopmund and the surrounding area has to offer, ranging from dolphin cruises, sandboarding, kayaking, paragliding, quad biking and much more.

Day 3 Damaraland

This morning after breakfast you will travel further north, along huge lichen fields to Cape Cross, a Cape-fur seal reserve where at times over 80 000 animals frolic in the waves of the Atlantic. Thereafter you will continue via the Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain, into the Damaraland. Thereafter you continue your journey into the heart of Damaraland. Damaraland is one of the most scenic areas in Namibia, a huge, untamed, ruggedly beautiful region that offers the more travelers a more adventurous challenge. Here there are prehistoric water courses with open plains and grassland, massive granite koppies and deep gorges. Towards the west, the geography changes dramatically with endless sandy wastes, that incredibly are able to sustain small, but wide-ranging, populations of desert-adapted elephant, black rhino, giraffe, ostrich and springbok. These animals have adapted their lifestyles to survive the harshness of the sun-blistered, almost waterless desert spaces. Elephant move through euphorbia bush country, and can travel up to 70km in a day in search of food and water and unusually, do not destroy trees in their quest for food.

Day 4 Kaokoland

Today after breakfast you will travel to kaokoland in the Kunene region, known as the home to the Himba people who have kept their ethnic individuality and culture in the seclusion of Kaokoland and also home to the desert Elephant as they adapt successfully to life in arid areas.

The Himba people are semi-nomadic people who still live and dress according to ancient customs and traditions, and they trek from one watering place to the next. With the Tjimba and other Herero people who inhabit Kaokoland, the traditional name of Namibia’s remote northern-western Kunene region, they are informally referred to as the Kaokovelders. The Himba live in scattered settlements throughout the region. Their homes are simple coned-shaped structures made of saplings bound together with palm leaves and plastered with mud and dung. The Himba are tall, slender and statuesque people, renowned for their beauty and photogenic qualities.

Day 5 Ruacana

This morning after breakfast you will visit a Himba village before heading to Ruacana where you will spend the night. Ruacana is a settlement in the Omusati region which is located on the border with Angola on the Kunene River. Ruacana was developed around a major underground hydro electrical plant linked to the nearby dam across the border in Angola in Calueque. The dam and pumping station were bombed in a Cuban airstrike in 1988 during the Angolan civil war. The facilities were repaired by Nampower and they now operate it producing 240 megawatts with three turbines. A few kilometers from the Ruacana town are the Ruacana waterfalls. The waterfall is 120 meters high and 700 meters wide in full flood.

Day 6 Oshakati

Today after breakfast you will visit the Ruacana Falls before proceeding to Oshakati where you will spend the night. Oshakati is a town located in the Oshana Region. It is the regional capital and it was officially founded in July 1966. Oshakati means “which is in between” in oshiwambo the language of the Ovambo. The city was used as a base of operation by the South African Defence force and Namibian war of Independence. Oshakati is considered to be the largest town and capital of the northern area known as Ovamboland.

Day 7 & Day 8 Etosha National Park

Today after breakfast you will proceed down to Etosha National Park which is home to the 4 of the big five (Lion, Elephant, Rhino and leopard). Etosha National Park is one of Southern Africa’s finest and most important Game Reserves. Etosha Game park was declared a National Park in 1907 and covering an area of 22 270 square km, it is home to 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish.

Etosha, meaning “Great White Place of dry water”, is dominated by a massive mineral pan. The pan is part of the Kalahari Basin, the floor of which was formed around 1000 million years ago. The Etosha Pan covers around 25% of the National Park. The pan was originally a lake fed by the Kunene River. However the course of the river changed thousands of years ago and the lake dried up. The pan now is a large dusty depression of salt and dusty clay which fills only if the rains are heavy and even then only holds water for a short time. This temporary water in the Etosha Pan attracts thousands of wading birds including impressive flocks of flamingos. The perennial springs along the edges of the Etosha Pan draw large concentrations of wildlife and birds.

The following morning after breakfast you can enter the Etosha National Park. Etosha National Park is one of Southern Africa’s finest and most important Game Reserves. Etosha Game park was declared a National Park in 1907 and covering an area of 22 270 square km, it is home to 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish. Etosha, meaning “Great White Place”, is dominated by a massive mineral pan. The pan is part of the Kalahari Basin, the floor of which was formed around 1000 million years ago.

The Etosha Pan covers around 25% of the National Park. The pan was originally a lake fed by the Kunene River. However the course of the river changed thousands of years ago and the lake dried up. The pan now is a large dusty depression of salt and dusty clay which fills only if the rains are heavy and even then only holds water for a short time. This temporary water in the Etosha Pan attracts thousands of wading birds including impressive flocks of flamingos. The perennial springs along the edges of the Etosha Pan draw large concentrations of wildlife and birds.

Day 9 Waterberg

Today you proceed down south to the Otjiwarongo area, your destination being the Waterberg Plateau Park where you will spend the night. Waterberg was the site of one of the major turning points in Namibia’s History. It was here, on the foothills, that the Herero people lost their last and greatest battle against the German Colonial forces at the beginning of the century. The Herero were forced to retreat from the Waterberg and headed eastward to British Betchuanaland (now Botswana). Thousands were killed by the following Germans and many lost their lives due to lack of food and water. Estimates are that nearly two thirds of the Herero population lost their lives during this period. The graves of German soldiers who lost their lives at Waterberg can still be viewed near the Waterberg Rest Camp.

Day 10 End of Tour

This morning after breakfast you will proceed down to Windhoek where you will be dropped off at the airport for your departure flight or at the accommodation of your choice.
Highlights: Sossusvlei, Helmeringhausen, Aus, Luderitz, Fish River Canyon, Kalahari Desert Day

Day 1 Namib Desert

Upon your arrival at the international airport you will be met by your guide who will give you more information about the tour. Thereafter you will proceed down south to the Namib Desert. Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Day 2 Namib Desert

The following day demands an early start, to enjoy the sunrise on the dunes. Thereafter you will visit the Dead Vlei. Dead Vlei is an old salt pan named for its eery dead appearance in the Namib Desert which had no water since the river changed its course. The old acacias died 500 years ago, but as there is no humidly in this place, they did not rotten, forming a dead forest. In the late afternoon you will visit then Sesriem Canyon, Walking through the canyon takes you on a journey back to 10-20 million years ago, when sedimentary layers of gravel and sand were deposited and cemented together by lime.

The ledges are now inhabited by pigeons, raucous pied crows and chattering starlings. But look a little higher and you might see a lanner falcon or the soaring spread of a lappet faced vulture with a wingspan of 2.6m.

Day 3 Helmeringhausen

Today after breakfast you will be heading to the town of Helmeringhausen where your accommodation for the night is booked for you on your behalf. Right next to the hotel lies the Agricultural Museum of Helmeringhausen, founded by the local Farmers’ Association. It displays interesting farming implements – such as water drilling machines or fire fighting coaches – used in the olden days.

Day 4 Aus

This morning after breakfast you will continue down south to Aus where you will spend the night. After the Germans surrendered to the South African forces at Otavi on 9 July 1915, the tidy, tranquil village of Aus became one of two internment camps for German military personnel. Military police and officers were sent to a camp in the north and the noncommissioned officers went to Aus.

After the treaty of Versailles, the camp was dismantled and by May 1919 it was closed. Virtually nothing remains of the original camp, but several WWI graves remain immediately north of the village.

Day 5 Luderitz

Today after breakfast you will be travelling to Luderitz where your accommodation has been reserved for you on your behalf. Luderitz was initially referred to as Agra Pequena, meaning little Bay, by the Portuguese, whose navigator Bartolomeu Diaz erected a stone cross on Dias Point on 25 July, 1488. Heinrich Vogelslang, agent of the German merchant from Brement, Adolf Luderitz, landed at Angra Pequena on 9th April, 1988, to establish a trading station. Following the negotiation with the Khoekoe chief, Josef Fredericks from Bethanie, he purchases the land within an 8 km radius of Angra Pequena. In April 1884 this lad became part of the Protectorate of the German Empire, making the beginning of German colonial control in Namibia, referred o then as Deutsch-Sudwest-afrika.

Day 6 and 7 Fish River Canyon

Today after breakfast you will visit the Kolmanskop Ghost town before continue further the Fish River Canyon. The fish river canyon is the second-largest natural canyon in the world. Set in a harsh, stony plain, dotted with drought-resistant succulent such as the distinctive quiver tree or kokerboom, aloe dichotoma, and Euphorbia Gregaria, the canyon is a spectacular natural phenomen that took 100 of millions of years to evolve. While it's full length is 160 km – the width is up to 27 km and deep to 550 m – its most spectacular section is the 56-km stretch between the northernmost and southern most viewpoints. Because the river flows intermittently there is always water in some of the pools except in very dry years.

Day 8 Kalahari Desert

This morning after breakfast you will be traveling to the Kalahari Desert where your accommodation for the night is situated. The Kalahari is not a true desert as it receives too much rain, but it is actually a fossil desert. So do not expect to find the tall sand dunes associated with Sossusvlei, the landscape is more one of golden grass and small red dunes. The Kalahari Desert – or Kgalagadi, as it is known in Botswana – stretches across 7 countries – Botswana, Zambia, the Republic of South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It’s coverage in Namibia is called a ‘desert’ principally because it’s porous, sandy soils cannot retain surface water, but in some areas annual rainfall can be as high as 250mm, which accounts for the luxuriant grass cover during good years.

Day 9 End of Tour

This morning after breakfast you will be driving back to Windhoek where the tour will end. You will be dropped off at the international airport for your departure flight.
Day 1 Sossusvlei
Upon your arrival at the international airport you will be met by your guide who will give you more information about the tour. Thereafter you will travel into the Namib Desert with its monumental dunes and ever-changing colours.

Many people say that no part of the desert is visually more stunning than Sossusvlei with its monumental high dunes. The gigantic star –shaped mountains of sand – one of the largest was measured from the base to be 325 m high – are a sought-after topic for artists and photographers. Sossusvlei’s mountainous dunes lie at the end of an erosional trough formed by the Tsauchab River. They are shaped by strong multi-dimensional winds, primarily the southwester, and the three to five sinuous crests, which meet at the highest point to give them the star shape. You will enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 Sossusvlei
This morning after breakfast you can visit the Dead Vlei. Dead Vlei is an old salt pan named for its eery dead appearance in the Namib Desert which had no water since the river changed its course. The old acacias died 500 years ago, but as there is no humidly in this place, they did not rotten, forming a dead forest. In the late afternoon you will visit then Sesriem Canyon, Walking through the canyon takes you on a journey back to 10-20 million years ago, when sedimentary layers of gravel and sand were deposited and cemented together by lime. The ledges are now inhabited by pigeons, raucous pied crows and chattering starlings. But look a little higher and you might see a Lanner falcon or the soaring spread of a lappet faced vulture with a wingspan of 2.6m. you will enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Day 3 End of tour
After a leisurely breakfast you return to Swakopmund where your tour will end.
Highlights: Etosha National Park, Kavango Region, Caprivi Region, Chobe National Park

Day 1 & 2 Etosha National Park:
Upon your arrival at the international airport you will be met by your guide who will give you more information about the tour. Thereafter you will continue your journey to Etosha National Park where you will devote purely to the wild life found in the Etosha National Park for the two days.

Day 3 Kavango Region
This morning after breakfast you will proceed east via the mining town of Tsumeb and the “maize Triangle” to Rundu, where your lodge for the night is situated. On the way to Rundu we will stop in Grootfontein to visit a small quaint museum that offers us unique insight into the culture, historical as well as the agricultural history of Namibia. The riverside town of Rundu, on the banks of the Okavango River, is situated in Kavango, the home of Namibia’s well- known Kavango woodcarvers. This ancient craft, handed down over generations, is a flourishing industry today

Day 4 & 5 Caprivi Region

This morning after breakfast you continue your journey along the Kavango River to Popa Falls, where you can stop for a scenic walk along the rapids and surrounding forest, before traveling through the Caprivi Game Park.

After breakfast you can visit a traditional village, where you will experience the daily life of the people who live here. You can also take part in morning game drives or game cruises in the morning or late afternoon.

Day 6 Botswana

This morning after breakfast you will travel along the Caprivi Strip, you enter Katima Mulilo, situated along the Zambezi River that forms a natural boundary to Zambia. Driving along stretches of huge Baobab Trees, you enter Botswana and travel via the Chobe National Park, renowned for the highest Elephant population on earth, to Kasane where your tour will end.
In northern Namibia lies one of the greatest game reserves in Africa. Etosha: “the great white place”; “the place of a mothers tears”; “the place of dry water”. These evocative interpretations of an ancient name summon images of shimmering white horizons, powerful emotions and an aura of unreality.

Stretching across 22 275 square kilometres the park encompasses stark white pans, ancient rivers, endless plains, acacia thickets, mopane woodlands, an enchanted forest and the delightfully named Ondundozananandana hills. Home to more than 114 mammals (including several rare and endangered species) and 340 bird species (this number swells with the arrival of summer migrants) the park offers brilliant opportunities for game viewing, bird watching and photography.

Take your chance to see the big five. The scarcity of water and the dependence of the parks diverse herds of game on a limited number of drinking points is partly what makes Etosha a remarkable experience. The definitive feature of the park is the vast white pan. In summer the glaring pan teases the eye, convincing all that this is the mythical inland lake the great explorers spent years searching for. In winter, whirling winds race across the pan, whipping up dust devils and leaving a fine white layer of dust over everything. Hanging in the air the dust layer acts as a natural filter in front of the setting sun, creating amazing sunsets.

The stark white pan with its shimmering mirages, dancing dust devils and dreamlike quality creates a backdrop un-equalled amongst parks in Africa. The diversity of species and the ethereal quality of the park combine to make Etosha an incredible experience and a challenge to try to capture the spirit of this great park and all its splendid creatures.
Tour Facilities
  • Accommodation Reserved
  • Aiport Transfer
  • Breakfast Served/Included
  • Children Allowed
  • Custom Tours
  • Tour Guides -Accreddited
 
Reviews and Testimonials
Read what others had to say about their experiences at Photo-Ventures Namibia?
10 
Sandwich harbour
by Anna & Markus
on December 9, 2011
Very nice trip nice noligable guide alot off fun and unduscridible views will recomend to all our friends or anny one who want to do somthing at the coast
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