10-Nights A Desert Safari in Namibia - Small Group Journeys from $12,995

1 Arrive Windhoek, Namibia

Offering a stunning contrast to most African safari destinations, Namibia is a world unto itself. Windhoek, its capital, with its mix of German and local ancestry and renowned arts scene, rocks to its own beat as well. Once here, drive out to your luxury lodge and take a sunset safari drive, followed by a refreshing cocktail and welcome dinner.

Board a charter flight to Sossusvlei, a vast expanse of Namib Desert landscapes. Upon arrival, journey overland to your luxurious camp nestled on a private concession of the NamibRand Nature Reserve. Eat lunch, before embarking on a scenic drive through the reserve, observing the area's unique desert-adapted plants and wildlife, and learning about efforts to conserve its distinctive ecology.

Explore Sossusvlei, a place of stark yet undeniable beauty. The salt-and-clay pan is surrounded by towering dunes that, together with the sky, comprise the palette of burnt oranges and vivid blues so distinctive to the region. After an opportunity to climb "Big Daddy” — the tallest of the dunes — return to your lodge with your afternoon free to relax or opt for a variety of activities such as nature walks and quad biking.

Rise early for a morning of exploring, with your choice of a guided nature walk, ATV trail ride or scenic drive of the NamibRand Nature Reserve. Then, board your charter flight for the city of Swakopmund, a former German colonial enclave of seaside promenades, half-timbered homes and windswept beaches. Upon landing, settle into your hotel, where you eat lunch, with the afternoon free to unwind. This evening, eat dinner at a local restaurant.

Journey to Walvis Bay for a full day of private touring that takes in stunning tableaus of sand and surf. Embark on a private cruise of Walvis Bay, keeping an eye out for pelicans, seals, dolphins and whales. Come ashore for a chef-led culinary experience, savoring a private traditional barbecue set on the sands of a local beach. Then, gaze upon the captivating dune landscape of Sandwich Harbour in 4x4 vehicles, where you witness the meeting of sand and sea, with the Atlantic Ocean at your feet. Later, return to your hotel for the rest of the day at leisure.

This morning, ride an e-bike through Swakopmund's “Old City.” Cycle past historic buildings and surroundings that showcase the city's rich heritage. Afterward, fly by private charter to Purros Conservancy and settle into your luxury lodge. Often described as one of the last truly wild areas in northwestern Namibia, the conservancy is roamed by desert-dwelling elephants. Later, dine at your magnificent lodge, which serves as your hub for your next day's adventures.

Head out on an early morning drive through a stunning wilderness secluded far off the beaten track, keeping an eye out for distinctive plant life, strange rock formations and rare desert-adapted elephants. This afternoon, head out to meet members of the last nomadic tribe of Namibia, the Himba. Revel in this authentic opportunity to learn about their customs and traditions, mingling with tribal members sporting ochre-red braided hair and garments of hides and beads, and gain insight into their beliefs, way of life and everyday routine.

Board a private aircraft for a flight to the private 84,000-acre Onguma Private Game Reserve. Upon arrival, settle into your tranquil tented camp before setting out on an afternoon game drive around the private reserve. Watch for any of the hundreds of species of birds in the region as well as an astonishing variety of game, including lions, black and white rhinos, elephants and giraffes.

Today, experience a guided morning game drive into Etosha National Park to view more of the wide variety of game and bird species roaming terrain that includes grasslands and salt pan. Return to your lodge for lunch followed by time to relax at the refreshing infinity edge swimming pool. Then, head out again for a sunset drive, perhaps sighting cheetahs, gemsbok or a flock of flamingos. Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner.

Choose from a variety of activities on your final morning at this spectacular private reserve. Set out on a game drive or a bush walk to learn about animal trails, and seek out the smaller creatures of the bush. After lunch, fly to Windhoek and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is at your leisure.