Namibia

We generally recommend Namibia family holidays for families with children age 10 plus.  This is because the drive times between destinations are often 5 or 6 hours.  However, it is possible to also take scenic flights for a supplement.  Whilst malaria risk is low in Etosha National Park, generally medical professions will still recommend that you take malaria tablets, so whilst it’s certainly possible, we’d suggest a first safari in South Africa and then visiting Namibia when they are a little older, and can also appreciate the dramatic scenery!

Family holidays in Namibia can be packed with adventure activities that can suit families of all ages. Activities for families include excursions in the desert to see the sand dunes of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, to boat trips off the coast of Swakopmund to see dolphins and seals, you can also opt to kayak or visit Sandwich Harbour or head back to the desert for dune boarding or quad biking. Game drives in Etosha can either be done as self drive or you can arrange guided drives through the lodges. Okonjima – home to the AfriCAT foundation is always a highlight for younger travellers.

Typically we advise 2 – 2.5 weeks for a family adventure holiday around Namibia, this allows time in each area, however do note this is a trip that does tend to cover vast distances. Typically 1 night in Windhoek on arrival, followed by 2 / 3 nights in Sossusvlei, 2  / 3 night in Swakopmund, heading north for 2 nights in Damaraland, 3-4 nights in Etosha and then south for 1-2 nights at Okonjima, you may also require 1 night back in Windhoek before your flight home. 

Check out our blog for when planning your trip – https://bushbaby.travel/how-to-create-your-namibian-adventure/ 

Yes! There are options to either join a small group tour, where you have a dedicated driver guide, or to create a bespoke itinerary with a driver guide tailored just for you and your family – however this option usually does come at a premium. 

The cooler dry season from June to October is the best time for safaris and for visiting Sossusvlei (and therefore this is also high season). You can expect mostly blue skies, plenty of sunshine and hardly any rain at this time of year. Daytime temperatures typically range between 19C-24C inland, with nighttime temperatures dropping to around 10C or even less during the coldest months (June -August), especially at altitude and in the desert.