Doing the Sossusvlei, Swahoomund and Damaraland land circuit with Vincent
Namibia
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May 9 - May 25, 2024
Our trip consisted of Sossusvlei (2 nights), Swakopmund (2 nights) and Damaraland (3 nights)
We opted for a driver and guide and this was a significant part of the enjoyment of our trip. Vincent Taylor is not just a driver and guide but a senior person with in-depth knowledge and experience in Namibia and the region which provided us with deeper insight into Namibia and visiting places that other might miss. I would encourage others visiting Namibia to consider having a driver and guide since 80% of the roads we travelled on were not paved and distances between gas stations and facilities are far, driving around 5 hours every other days is tiring even as a passenger and if something happens having a local expert is helpful. Travelling on your own would be a completely different experience and much less interesting. The dunes of Sossusvlei are like a gigantic art installation with the changing light and shadows on the dunes with the unique vegetation and salt pans. The accommodations at the Desert Homestead Lodge were super with the roomy individual cabins. Swakopmund with its cooler temperatures was a relief from the heat, the Swakopmund Luxury Suites were comfortable and a good location. We would encourage visitors to do the combination cruise on the bay in the morning and the Sandwich Bay dune ride in the afternoon, both were memorable. Damaraland was unique to be staying among the boulders and going out one morning for tracking the desert elephants which we found and appreciated. Afternoons were too hot to do very much. We could have done with a less fancy accommodations at Camp Kipwe but it was very unique and beautiful. Travelling the roads and experiencing the vastness of Namibia was an experience in itself. The final accomodation at the Windhoek Luxury Suites was fine with a restaurant in a courtyard mall in the Spanish style was quite unique and enjoyable. The staff at all the accommodations were very helpful, friendly and professional.
The CapeTown portion of the trip was totally different. Staying at the Commodore next to the wharf was very handy for restaurants and shopping. Hotel staff were helpful and friendly was we were able to do most of the things that CapeTown is famous for. A great final stop on our very memorable trip.
Hotel Reviews
Great for being near the airport. Helpful and friendly staff. Nice rooms and a good restaurant.
The setting of the hotel, the main building with a thatched roof and tasteful design and facilities. The rooms were large and very nicely done in a rustic way
Good location and helpful staff
This is a top end hotel set among boulders on a hill in the desert and barely visible from a distance. Each hut has a outdoor bathroom that we liked. Bar at the top of the hill for sunsets. Food was great and staff were friendly and helpful.
Quite and peaceful.
Our room overlooked the city and Table Mountain.
Activity Review
Tracking the desert elephants was a great experience in a dry river bed. We did find the elephants and a few giraffe. The cultural center experience was interesting. The petroglyphs were interesting though the trail is a bit difficult. The organ pipes and black mountain were interesting but not as much as the other activities
Hi Tom,
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your detailed and insightful review of your trip to Namibia and Cape Town. Your feedback is incredibly appreciated.
I have to say, I share your love for both of these incredible destinations. Creating experiences like the one you had is exactly what makes me passionate about my job. It was truly a pleasure working with you, and I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your journey.
Looking forward to assisting you with your future travel adventures!
Warm regards,
Bianca