女生小视频

2 November 2026聽鈥� 13 days

25 October 2027 鈥�&苍产蝉辫;13 days for 拢8,750 per person

Register your interest for 2028 and we will contact you when confirmed details including finalised dates and prices are available.

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Embark on an extraordinary journey through Namibia with renowned astronomy writer Jamie Carter, where spectacular night skies, ancient geology and extraordinary wildlife come together. From the rugged landscapes of Damaraland to the abundant wildlife of Etosha National Park, this immersive adventure uncovers the fascinating connections between our planet and the universe beyond.

Tour the HESS gamma-ray telescope complex, enjoy expert-led stargazing sessions, and explore spectacular geological wonders including the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, the surreal Moon Landscape, Sesriem Gorge and the world’s largest intact meteorite at Hoba. Discover ancient rock art at Twyfelfontein, encounter iconic wildlife in Etosha National Park and Damaraland, and gain fascinating insights into the links between astronomy, geology and the natural world throughout this unique small-group adventure.

Nights are filled with expert-led stargazing, where the Milky Way, planets and constellations come alive, making this an unforgettable journey for science-curious stargazers.

Guided by renowned astronomy writer and expert Jamie Carter, this journey offers a rare opportunity to explore the night sky with one of the world鈥檚 leading voices in observational astronomy. Through engaging talks, guided stargazing sessions and captivating storytelling, Jamie brings the science of the cosmos vividly to life 鈥� from the groundbreaking gamma-ray discoveries of the HESS telescopes to unforgettable nights beneath the pristine darkness of Africa鈥檚 night skies.

This expedition-style tour is perfect for anyone fascinated by astronomy, geology, wildlife and the natural world, offering an immersive way to experience Namibia both by day and night. Travel extensively overland through some of the country鈥檚 most remote and spectacular landscapes. Discover ancient geological formations, remarkable wildlife and fascinating conservation projects by daylight, then experience Namibia鈥檚 pristine dark skies after sunset. Combining science, nature, wildlife and exploration, this adventure offers a deeper connection between Earth and the cosmos while embracing the spirit of expedition travel.

In partnership with Intrepid Travel. 

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Itinerary

This is an expedition-style journey through remote Namibia, with substantial overland travel an integral part of the experience. Several days involve four to six hours on the road, often on gravel or uneven surfaces, with stops for wildlife, walks and sightseeing. Journey times can vary with local conditions, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are important.

Day 1: Arrive in Windhoek and meet the group

Welcome to Namibia! Windhoek, Namibia鈥檚 capital, is a vibrant city nestled among the central highlands, where German architecture meets modern African culture, surrounded by rugged hills and sweeping savannah landscapes.

Arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Namibia鈥檚 capital. Meet your expert astronomy guide and enjoy a welcome briefing on Namibia鈥檚 remarkable night skies, famous for their clarity and minimal light pollution.

In the evening, meet your tour leader in the lobby of the hotel for a welcome meeting, followed by dinner at The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro. 

Day 2: HESS telescope complex and Namibia鈥檚 central highlands

After breakfast, travel west of Windhoek into the Khomas highlands, a region of rolling hills, sparse vegetation and vast desert expanses that provide a perfect natural laboratory for astronomical observation. Arrive at the HESS telescope complex, one of the world鈥檚 premier gamma-ray observatories, situated in this remote and elevated location to maximise sky visibility and minimise atmospheric interference. During your visit, gain an in-depth understanding of cutting-edge astrophysical research, including how scientists detect high-energy gamma rays emitted by some of the most energetic and mysterious phenomena in the universe, such as supernovae, pulsars and black holes. Your guide will explain the innovative imaging and detection techniques used at HESS, including the array of large telescopes working together to capture faint cosmic signals from millions of light years away.

Continue to Rooisand Desert Ranch, a remote desert retreat surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of Namibia鈥檚 central highlands. With its open skies and low levels of light pollution, it provides an excellent setting to experience Namibia鈥檚 exceptional night skies.

Travel note: Today involves approximately 2鈥�3 hours of overland travel, travelling from Windhoek into the Khomas Highlands and onward to Rooisand Desert Ranch. Roads become increasingly remote as you leave the capital, with sections of gravel road forming part of the journey. Journey times are approximate and can vary according to road conditions.

Day 3: Guided planetary hiking trail and afternoon game drive

This morning embark on a guided planetary hiking trail, traversing rocky outcrops, gravel plains and dune formations that closely resemble extraterrestrial landscapes. Along the trail, learn about the processes that shape these terrains 鈥� erosion, sedimentation and tectonic activity 鈥� and how scientists use Earth鈥檚 deserts to study potential landing sites for future space missions. The hike is both educational and contemplative, offering opportunities to connect Earth鈥檚 ancient landscapes with the broader universe, deepening your appreciation of the desert as a window into planetary history and cosmic processes.

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic game drive spanning a few hours, where you are given an overview of the diversified fauna and flora of the area. The experienced guide will explain many farming concepts while visiting numerous places of interest, such as riverbeds, waterholes and some viewing spots which are rather difficult to access. Usually, a variety of African game species such as kudu, oryx and springbok are sighted 鈥� sometimes, with a bit of luck, also warthogs, wild dogs and the famous Hartmann’s mountain zebra.

Travel note: Travel today is relatively limited, with short road transfers. The focus is on exploring the landscape on foot and by game drive, with several hours spent outdoors across the day.

Day 4: Drive to Namib-Naukluft National Park

After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive south towards Sesriem, the gateway to the spectacular dunes of Sossusvlei, the ancient clay pan of Deadvlei and the dramatic Sesriem Canyon. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, covering around 300 to 330 kilometres on a combination of paved and gravel roads. Travel through Namibia鈥檚 vast desert landscapes, passing rugged mountains, sweeping gravel plains and striking geological formations as you approach the Namib Desert, one of the oldest deserts in the world. Arrive in Sesriem, ideally positioned to explore the region鈥檚 extraordinary landscapes and enjoy its remarkable night skies.

In the evening, enjoy a guided stargazing session, observing constellations, planets and distant galaxies in one of the darkest and clearest night skies on the planet, where the Milky Way stretches in vivid detail across the horizon.

Travel note: This is one of the longer overland journeys of the tour, with approximately 300鈥�330 kilometres of driving taking around 4鈥�5 hours. The route combines paved and gravel roads and passes through increasingly remote desert landscapes. Journey times are approximate and can vary according to road conditions.

Day 5: Sossusvlei, climb Dune 45 and Sesriem gorge

Begin the day with an early-morning drive to Sossusvlei where you will have the opportunity to climb Dune 45, one of the most iconic and frequently photographed dunes in the Namib Desert. Renowned for its striking symmetry and vibrant orange hues that shift with the changing light. Rising approximately 80 metres above the surrounding desert, the climb follows a narrow, steep sandy ridge and typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes to reach the summit, depending on your fitness and the conditions underfoot. Walking on soft, shifting sand can be physically demanding, particularly as the gradient becomes steeper towards the top, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. From the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views across the vast, undulating desert landscape, where the early morning light casts dramatic shadows and illuminates the dunes in rich shades of gold and red, providing exceptional opportunities for photography.

In the afternoon, explore the tranquil Sesriem gorge, a natural corridor perfect for a short walk and desert discovery. Capture dramatic sunset photographs as light paints the desert in golden tones.

Continue to your accommodation. Tonight, experience expert-guided stargazing, an unforgettable introduction to the celestial wonders of the Namib desert.

Travel note: Today involves several short vehicle journeys within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, including the early-morning drive to Sossusvlei and transfers to the area’s key sites. The main activities are on foot, including the climb of Dune 45 and exploration around Sesriem.

Day 6: Guided sunrise walk and onto Swakopmund

Start the day early with coffee or tea in your bungalow before setting out on a guided sunrise walk of approximately one hour. Explore the surrounding dunes as the desert is bathed in the soft morning light, then return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out.

Continue your journey to the beachside town of Swakopmund. Stop by the small settlement of Solitaire. Scattered with abandoned trucks, cars, petrol pumps and cacti, it’s the only place between Walvis Bay and Sossusvlei to feature a petrol station, post office, general store and bakery. Enjoy a piece of the local apple pie which has earned itself quite a reputation. Continue past Walvis Bay, the hibernation area for thousands of migratory birds, most notably flamingos. November to April is the perfect season to visit and you may take a quick detour to see these elegant birds. 

Upon arrival at Swakopmund take some leisure time for lunch, then join your leader on an orientation walk to get a feel for this interesting township with a German-Namibian atmosphere.

Travel note: Today is another significant overland journey, travelling approximately 350 kilometres from the Sossusvlei area to Swakopmund, taking around 5鈥�6 hours including stops. Much of the route is through remote desert landscapes, with sections of gravel road. Stops at Solitaire and, season permitting, Walvis Bay break up the journey.

Day 7: 4脳4 adventure near Swakopmund, the Moon Landscape and Swakop river

In the morning, experienced local guides will lead you on an unforgettable 4脳4 adventure into the dune belt just outside Swakopmund. Traverse striking desert terrain that at first seems vast and untouched, yet brimming with hidden wonders. Search for chameleons, snakes, scorpions, geckos and other fascinating small creatures, while learning about the delicate ecology of the Namib desert. The tour concludes atop a scenic dune overlooking the Atlantic Ocean 鈥� an incredible spot for photographs, quiet reflection and appreciating the desert鈥檚 tiniest inhabitants.

This afternoon, venture to the Moon Landscape, a surreal canyon shaped over two million years by the Swakop river. A gentle walk through its dramatic formations is followed by a relaxed picnic at sunset, as the golden light illuminates the alien terrain. 

Travel note: There is less travel today, with short road transfers from Swakopmund into the surrounding desert. The 4脳4 excursion involves travelling across sandy and uneven terrain, while the afternoon visit to the Moon Landscape requires a further short drive outside town.

Day 8: Damaraland walking safari, Rock Arch at Spitzkoppe and Damaraland

Depart Swakopmund to join a guided walking and game-viewing tour through Damaraland, visiting remarkable sites including the Small Bushman鈥檚 Paradise paintings, the Golden Snake painting, other ancient rock art, Zebra Pool and the famous Rock Arch at Spitzkoppe. Between these highlights, travel in a game viewer spotting wildlife across the rugged desert landscape. Pause for lunch before continuing to your next base.

Arrive at Camp Kipwe which is tucked into the ochre boulders of Damaraland鈥檚 Twyfelfontein Conservancy. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the lodge鈥檚 facilities or explore the surroundings on a self-guided nature walk, following short trails with information points detailing local flora, geology and the elusive desert-adapted elephants that roam the area.

Travel note: Today involves a full day of overland travel and exploration, covering approximately 400 to 450 kilometres from Swakopmund to Mowani Mountain Camp via Spitzkoppe, with around 6 to 7 hours of driving, depending on road conditions and the route taken. Much of the journey is along gravel roads, with some uneven and dusty sections. The drive will be broken up by guided walks, wildlife viewing, visits to ancient rock-art sites and a lunch stop, making this a long but rewarding day of travel through Damaraland鈥檚 spectacular landscapes.

Day 9: Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes, Twyfelfontein and Etosha National Park

This morning, you will explore the fascinating geological formations of Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes, before visiting Twyfelfontein, Namibia鈥檚 first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, over 2500 petroglyphs etched into sandstone cliffs by the San people over thousands of years depict wildlife such as elephants, giraffes and antelope, as well as abstract and symbolic figures. These carvings offer a fascinating window into early human life, culture and spirituality, including their observations of celestial phenomena.

You will then travel to Etosha National Park, arriving in the late afternoon after approximately 6 hours on the road. 

In the evening, embark on a night drive, a unique safari experience that offers the chance to spot nocturnal animals 鈥� owls, bushbabies, genets and aardwolves鈥� using spotlights to catch the glow of eyes at waterholes.

Travel note: This is a long overland travel day, with approximately 6 hours on the road as you travel from Damaraland towards Etosha National Park. The route covers remote terrain and includes a number of stops and visits before continuing north towards Etosha. Road conditions and journey times can vary.

Day 10: Etosha National Park safari

You will rise early for a morning 4脳4 safari in Etosha National Park, keeping a close eye out for black rhino, Hartmann鈥檚 mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. The park is also home to around 340 bird species, making every turn of the track an opportunity for wildlife spotting. After the safari, you will return to your lodge for breakfast before checking out.

You will then continue onto your accommodation passing through Namibia鈥檚 striking landscapes en route.

Travel note: Today involves extensive travel within Etosha National Park as you move between wildlife-viewing areas and your next accommodation. Expect several hours in a 4脳4 vehicle, with frequent stops and slower driving to allow for wildlife sightings. The total distance will depend on animal movements and the route taken.

Day 11: Hoba meteorite and onto Okonjima Nature Reserve for an afternoon game drive

After breakfast, you will check out and make your way to Okonjima Nature Reserve, near Otjiwarongo. En route, you will visit the Hoba meteorite, the world鈥檚 largest known intact meteorite and a National Heritage Site. Weighing over 60 tonnes, this iron-nickel giant offers a striking reminder of our cosmic heritage.

You will arrive at Okonjima Nature Reserve for lunch.

This afternoon, you will venture out on the Rare and Endangered Species Drive. This game-drive allows more time to enjoy and understand the Okonjima Nature Reserve as a natural island bound ecosystem. As the private Nature Reserve was established primarily to conserve some of our more threatened mammal species, it provides an increased chance to encounter these relatively rare animals. This is assisted by the AfriCat Foundation鈥檚 research projects on the shy brown hyaena, bat-eared fox and rhino. There are more than 40 mammal species within the Okonjima Nature Reserve, both large and small as well as a good representation of the typical flora.

In the evening, you will enjoy stargazing after dinner, soaking in the vast Namibian sky.

Travel note: Today involves an overland journey of approximately 250 to 280 kilometres from Grootfontein to Okonjima Nature Reserve鈥檚 Plains Camp, taking around 3 to 4 hours by road, depending on conditions and stops along the way. Travelling south through Namibia鈥檚 open bushveld and rural landscapes, the route follows mainly paved roads, with a final section of gravel track leading into the reserve. The journey offers changing views of the central Namibian countryside.

Day 12: Explore Okonjima Nature Reserve and return to Windhoek

You will explore Okonjima Nature Reserve with our guides, discovering its diverse wildlife and unique landscapes. Gain firsthand insights into the local ecosystem and the striking Etjo Sandstone formations on a mountainous hiking trail, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours.

After breakfast, you will check out and travel to Windhoek, a journey of around 3 hours. 

In the evening, gather with the group for a farewell dinner, celebrating the journey, sharing memories and reflecting on the remarkable landscapes, wildlife and stargazing experiences that have made this Namibian adventure truly unforgettable.

Travel note: After your morning exploration of Okonjima Nature Reserve, you will travel approximately 220 to 230 kilometres from Plains Camp to Windhoek, taking around 2陆 to 3 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. The journey includes a gravel section leaving the reserve before joining the main paved B1 highway south towards Namibia鈥檚 capital. Along the way, the landscape gradually changes from open bushveld and rolling hills to the more developed surroundings of Windhoek.

Day 13: Windhoek departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Windhoek airport to connect with your onward flight.

Please note: Please appreciate that the nature of this type of travel requires flexibility and you should allow for alternatives. While our partners Intrepid Travel will endeavour to operate the tour as described they reserve the right to change the trip itinerary, which may be subject to alteration without prior notice due to local circumstances or events. Despite all the best planning in the world, things can go astray, but Intrepid鈥檚 highly trained and resourceful tour leaders are skilled at managing changing circumstances while on tour.

Booking administration 

This tour is operated by our trusted partner Intrepid Travel on behalf of New 女生小视频 Discovery Tours. Their dedicated specialist team will be your main point of contact from booking until you return home, handling your reservation, payments, travel documents, pre-departure information and any questions about your tour or travel arrangements.

Highlights

• Journey with astronomy writer Jamie Carter, uncovering the links between Namibia’s dark skies, ancient landscapes and remarkable geology
• Visit the HESS gamma-ray telescopes and uncover the mysteries of high-energy cosmic phenomena
• Experience the Moon Landscape, where slow river erosion produced a surreal desert canyon reminiscent of lunar geology
• Climb Dune 45, one of the most iconic and frequently photographed dunes in Sossusvlei
• Take game drives through Etosha National Park, observing black rhino, Hartmann鈥檚 mountain zebra, black-faced impala and other iconic species
• Take part in a planetary hiking trail, where Namibia鈥檚 desert mirrors Martian and lunar terrains
• Enjoy talks, walking seminars and guided stargazing from Jamie
• Stand before the Hoba meteorite, the largest intact meteorite ever discovered on Earth
• Maximum group size – 16 guests

Meet the expert

Jamie Carter

Jamie is an award-winning journalist who writes about the night sky and eclipses. He is the recipient of the 2023 Popular Media Award from the American Astronomical Society’s Solar Physics Division, and is the world’s foremost solar eclipse journalist, an experienced science, travel and photography journalist, and a stargazer writing about exploring the night sky, moongazing, astrotourism, astronomy and space exploration.

Jamie is the editor of WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com and SmartTelescopeReviews.com, and author of When Is The Next Eclipse? A traveler鈥檚 guide to total solar eclipses 2026-2034 and A Stargazing Program for Beginners: A pocket field guide. He also writes for publications and websites including Space.com, Live Science, Sky & Telescope magazine, BBC Sky At Night magazine, The Planetary Society, New 女生小视频, Travel+Leisure, T3, the South China Morning Post and Digital Camera World. 

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Tour leader

In addition to the science expert you will be accompanied throughout by an English-speaking tour leader provided by our partner for this tour, Intrepid Travel. The best people to show you the heart of a destination are those who live there. Tour leaders aren’t just local guides: they will be your teacher, travel guru and enthusiastic purveyor of grassroots experiences. They will also be able to offer insights on the country’s history and culture and will be on hand to sort all the logistics of the trip and to answer any questions you may have.

What’s included

• Accommodation on twin-share basis in all mentioned lodges and hotels
• 12 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 11 dinners
• Talks and seminars from expert astronomers and local guides
• Game drive permits in national parks
• Accompanied throughout by an English-speaking tour leader
• Airport transfers
• All tours and excursions

What’s not included

• Travel insurance
• International flights
• Visa/ETA (if applicable)
• Single supplement 鈥� 拢500 (2026) and 拢700 (2027)

Accommodations

The Weinberg Hotel, Windhoek

Situated in an upmarket area of Windhoek, The Weinberg Hotel offers elegant boutique accommodation with a distinctive old-world charm. Rooms are arranged around a tranquil courtyard featuring a central fountain, creating a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. Enjoy stylish comfort, excellent dining options within the complex and a relaxing setting.

Rooisand Desert Camp, Central highlands 

Rooisand Desert Camp is a peaceful retreat in Namibia鈥檚 remote central highlands, surrounded by rugged mountains, open plains and vast desert landscapes. Far from the bustle of towns and major sources of light pollution, its secluded setting offers an authentic taste of Namibia鈥檚 wilderness and exceptional conditions for stargazing. It provides a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding landscape, while its expansive skies make it particularly well suited to an astronomy-focused journey.

Sossus Dune Lodge, Namib-Naukluft National Park

Sossus Dune Lodge is a distinctive desert lodge operated by Namibia Wildlife Resorts, uniquely located inside Namib-Naukluft National Park. Its prime position allows guests early and late access to the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei, while eco-friendly chalets blend seamlessly into the dramatic desert surroundings. With sweeping views, warm hospitality, and unforgettable sunrises, sunsets, and night skies, it offers an immersive Namib Desert experience.

The Delight Hotel, Swakopmund 

The Delight Hotel Swakopmund is a vibrant and contemporary coastal hotel in Swakopmund, ideally located within walking distance of the historic 鈥淢ole鈥� and the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the Gondwana Collection Namibia, this stylish accommodation offers comfortable, air-conditioned twin and family loft rooms with en-suite bathrooms and modern amenities, along with friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere.

Camp Kipwe, Damaraland

Camp Kipwe is a charming wilderness lodge nestled among the dramatic granite boulders of Namibia鈥檚 Damaraland region, blending seamlessly into its rugged desert surroundings. The camp offers comfortable, individually designed bungalows with spectacular views across the rocky landscape. Relax by the swimming pool, enjoy meals overlooking the surrounding wilderness and experience the tranquillity of this remarkable region, known for its ancient rock engravings, striking geological formations and desert-adapted wildlife.

Okaukuejo Camp Bush Chalets, Etosha National Park

Okaukuejo Rest Camp is the flagship accommodation within Etosha National Park, famed for its excellent wildlife viewing right from the camp鈥檚 floodlit waterhole. The camp offers a range of comfortable chalets and family units surrounded by bushveld, with easy access to Etosha鈥檚 vast game drives. Relax by the pool, enjoy meals at the restaurant and observe elephants, rhinos and other wildlife gathering at the waterhole.

Etale Lodge, Grootfontein, Namibia

Etale Lodge is a peaceful retreat situated near Grootfontein in northern Namibia, surrounded by natural bushveld and the region鈥檚 distinctive landscapes. The lodge offers comfortable accommodation, welcoming communal spaces and a relaxed atmosphere, providing an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area.

Okonjima Nature Reserve Plains Camp, Okonjima Nature Reserve

A welcoming safari lodge set within the private Okonjima Nature Reserve, home to the renowned AfriCat Foundation鈥檚 carnivore conservation projects. Accommodation includes spacious en鈥憇uite View and Classic rooms with verandahs overlooking the open plains, and the central 鈥淏arn鈥� offers dining, lounge areas, a pool and waterhole views. Guests can relax after game drives or guided wildlife walks, with excellent opportunities to learn about and potentially encounter leopards, hyenas and other species. 

Please note:

While Namibia offers a wide range of options – from luxury lodges and boutique hotels to desert camps and safari retreats – amenities and services can vary depending on location. City and coastal hotels generally provide modern comforts, en-suite bathrooms and climate control, while remote desert or wilderness camps prioritise immersion in nature, sometimes with more rustic facilities. Most accommodations maintain high standards of cleanliness, safety and hospitality, but guests should anticipate limited connectivity and basic infrastructure in isolated areas. For this itinerary, we have carefully selected the best accommodation options in each region to ensure comfort, convenience and a memorable experience throughout your Namibian journey.

If required for reasons beyond our control, we reserve the right to substitute alternative accommodation of equal or higher quality or adapt the itinerary if required.