Safari C:

Skeleton Coast Safari combined with Sossusvlei and the Etosha National Park

A five day safari leaving Windhoek at 07h00 in the morning with a flight to Sossusvlei which is reputed to have the highest sand dunes in the world. From there following the Skeleton Coast via Conception Bay to the Huab Valley during the first day. The second day continues up the coast as far as the Hoarusib Valley and the third day as far as the Kunene river, being the northern border of Namibia. On the fourth day a flight to one of the lodges outside the Etosha National Park from where the park is visited on the fifth day. The safari ends in Windhoek, arriving just before sunset on the fifth day

Day 1

We meet at Eros Airport , Windhoek at 07h00 for an early morning flight to Sossusvlei in the Namib Naukluft Park . Sossusvlei is reputed to have the highest dunes in the world, and the view of the shadow-lined dunes from the air is well worth seeing. We land at Sesriem from where we undertake an excursion by vehicle into the dunes. The dunes reach heights of 300m or more and for those inclined and fit enough to climb them, this might pose a challenge. We return to the aircraft and fly along the coast via Conception Bay towards Swakopmund. The flight includes an aerial view of the famous Eduard Bohlen shipwreck at Conception Bay .

After landing and refuelling at Swakopmund, we continue with a low-level flight north along the Skeleton Coast past the seal colony at Cape Cross for a light picnic lunch near the beach. Thereafter we fly east, over the desert, to the Ugab formations–a nearly lifeless ‘moon landscape' of numerous black ridges that stand out in stark contrast to the white desert floor–before landing at Kuidas camp in the Huab River Valley, where we stay for the night. Ancient rock engravings are found amongst the rocks within walking distance of the camp.

Day 2

After breakfast we depart by Land Rover to explore the colourful red lava and yellow sandstone of the Huab River environs and to be introduced to the ecological aspects of this area with its wide diversity of flora and fauna. This includes the Welwitschia Mirabilis, a tree that has been dwarfed by the rigours of the encroaching desert climate. We have lunch at Kuidas camp before flying along the coast to Terrace Bay in the Skeleton Coast Park . The most prominent shipwrecks along this part of the coast are the Montrose and Henrietta.

At the coast we access the roaring dunes by Land Rover, which always proves to be a stimulating experience. We also visit the beach with its profusion of multi-coloured pebbles consisting of agate, lava, granite and quartz. Interesting to see are old bleached whale bones scattered along the beach above the high tide mark. We return to the aircraft and continue north to our Purros camp in the Hoarusib Valley in the Kunene Region, where we stay for the night.

Day 3

After breakfast we embark on a scenic drive along the Hoarusib Valley to visit a settlement of the nomadic Himba people. We might be lucky enough to come across the desert-dwelling elephant who frequent this valley. From here we continue north along the Skeleton Coast by aircraft to the Kunene River acting as a border to Angola . The Kaiu Maru shipwreck and pieces from old sailing vessels lie scattered along this part of the coast. From the airfield we take a scenic drive by Land Rover to our favourite lunch site. After lunch we continue through the mountains and dunes of the Hartmann Valley - which extends to the Kunene River - reaching our Kunene River camp in the late afternoon.

Day 4

An early morning boat trip on the Kunene River as it flows through scenic desert landscape, observing bird life and possibly some crocodiles. Birds vary from aquatic species on the perennial waters, to endemic desert varieties and those which inhabit dense riverine vegetation. After lunch at the camp, we fly directly from the Kunene River to the eastern side of the Etosha National Park , where we spend the night at a lodge outside the park.

Day 5

After breakfast we drive/fly into the park for a game drive by vehicle. Springs provide numerous drinking places for the animals, which congregate in spectacular numbers especially during the dry season (June to December). Animals such as lion and steenbok may be found in specific home ranges, while others such as springbok, eland, zebra, wildebeest and elephant wander all over browsing or in search of better grazing. Our flight back to Windhoek commences in the afternoon to ensure that we land before dark.

Deposits and Cancellations

•  A non-refundable deposit of 20% is payable on confirmation of the booking. The balance is payable a minimum of 30 days     before departure.

•  Trip Tours reserves the right to cancel, without notice, any reservation in respect of which the required 20% deposit has not     been received.

•  In the case of cancellation thirty (30) to fifteen (15) days prior to departure, 50% of the price will be refunded.

•  No refund will be considered for a cancellation within fourteen (14) days prior to departure.

Please Note :

•  All of the above rates are priced per person, no single supplement applicable. These prices are all inclusive except for     pick-up or drop-off that may be necessary and which carries an extra fee per aircraft for the participants involved.

•  Kindly note that our rates are subject to change in the event of significant currency fluctuations and/or increase in     Government levies.

General Information

About the Safaris

Our introduction by aircraft to the Namib Desert and coastline is one of the highlights of the safari. Although several game species occur in these regions, it must be borne in mind that the prime purpose of these safaris is to experience the freedom, beauty and strange solitude of the area. Seeing game is therefore always considered a bonus.

When to go

Our safaris are conducted throughout the year.

Climate

Due to the fog belt, which is often present, the climate at the coast tends to vary considerably. Temperatures never drop below freezing point, but warm and cold temperatures (6 - 36 degrees Celsius, 43 - 97 degrees Fahrenheit) may be experienced. It should be noted that even in summer cool temperatures, rather than hot, are the norm. Temperatures in the interior, although warm in the mornings, usually start cooling off in the afternoons. The lack of moisture, a clear night sky and consequent rapid radiation of heat, give rise to chilly nights.

What to pack Bring only safari-type clothing and personal toiletries. It is essential that clothing adaptable to both warm and cold temperatures be brought along. Recommended clothing, fit for wearing in layers, includes:     * T-shirts   * Long-sleeved cotton shirts   * Shorts   * Trousers/jeans,   * A sweater/jersey   * A warm jacket such as an Anorak/ Windbreaker is essential.    A basic laundry service is offered at each camp.   Other essentials include:   * Good-quality sunglasses   * A wide brimmed hat   * Light walking shoes   * Sandals   * Sun block   * Binoculars

Photography

This area is a photographer's paradise; therefore camera equipment and lots of extra film is a must. Because of the remoteness of the wilderness areas, purchasing extra film whilst on tour is unfortunately impossible. It is possible to charge batteries overnight at our camps; therefore enough batteries are needed for at least a full day of photography. Guests need to supply the appropriate battery charger unit for their specific batteries.

Accommodation and Food

Guests are accommodated in exclusive, privately owned, fully equipped tented camps. The camps are comfortable and well equipped, and each is situated in a spot carefully chosen for its unique beauty.

Accommodation itself consists of comfortable tents with en suite bucket showers and flush toilets. All other necessary camping equipment like bedding, lamps, torches, mirrors, towels and soap are provided. Likewise all food, including fresh fruit and vegetables, soft drinks, fruit juices, beer, wine and a wide assortment of alcoholic beverages are supplied.  Please inform us of any special dietary needs when making your reservation.

Pick-up, drop-off & Transfers

As outlined in the general information section, it is more advantageous for participants on the safari to start from Windhoek. The pick-up of passengers in the southern Namib Desert at places such as the Sossusvlei area is possible without detracting significantly from the safari. The pick-up of passengers from Swakopmund, without the introductory part of the safari, is possible for Safari type A only. The pick-up of passengers in the northern part of Namibia from places such as the Etosha National Park, would diminish the safari experience and is therefore not an option.

The drop-off of passengers after a Skeleton Coast Safari to places in northern Namibia such as the Etosha National Park or even Swakopmund can be arranged at special request. Drop-off at places in the southern parts of Namibia is not possible due to limited daylight flying hours.

Transfers can be arranged from any Windhoek hotel to Eros Airport and vice versa upon request.

Baggage and Weight Restrictions

In the interest of your safety as well as in compliance with the safety regulations applicable to air transport in Namibia, the following weight limitations are strenuously applied and are not negotiable. Light aircraft are used for travelling the long distances during the safari, and luggage space is very limited. You are requested to travel as lightly and compactly as possible.  A maximum of 10kg (22lbs) of luggage is allowed per person, packed in soft, flexible travelling bags. This excludes camera equipment of approximately 2kg (4.4lb). No hard and bulky suitcases will be accommodated, nor will bags with wheels or any solid sides. Ideal dimensions for a soft bag are 60 x 40 x 40cm (24 x 16 x 16 in).

Visitors who exceed the above limit will be required to make alternative arrangements for their excess luggage. These may involve substantial costs associated with hiring an extra charter aircraft and will be for the expense of the individual.

A single traveller weighing more than 90kg, or two guests travelling together with a combined weight of more than 180kg, should please notify us of their weight at the time of making their reservation.

Health & Safety

All aircraft are flown by experienced commercial pilots. HF Radio transmitters ensure that communication with the camps and/or Windhoek is always possible and is maintained for the duration of the safari.

A medical flight rescue service stationed in Windhoek is on 24 hours' standby for all medical emergencies.

Malaria seldom occurs in the desert regions. Nevertheless, it is recommended that visitors take the necessary precautions and seek medical advice before departing.

All guests are required to cover themselves with cancellation, default, baggage, emergency evacuation and medical insurance for the duration of the trip.

Amendments to programme

The safaris are conducted in an exceptionally beautiful and interesting environment, but the terrain is generally wild, undeveloped and sometimes even rough. It is far from civilisation and there is no infrastructure and few roads. Because of our longstanding knowledge and experience of the terrain, the weather and other conditions in these areas, and because the safety of our guests and their maximum enjoyment are priorities,

WE AT ALL TIMES RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CHANGE WITHIN REASON THE PROGRAMME AND/OR ITS SEQUENCE SO AS TO ADAPT TO WEATHER CONDITIONS, OTHER CONSIDERATIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH MAY ARISE.

Group Size

We confirm tours for groups consisting of a minimum of two and a maximum of eight people. Special requests for groups larger than eight people can be accommodated. If th e number exceeds twelve people however, the group may have to be separated and split into smaller safari groups. These groups will then run concurrently, using camps in succession.

Departures

A group consisting of two or more people may reserve any departure date at will. The safari will be confirmed by our organisation if we have the resources available to conduct a safari on that particular date.

Booking is possible up to 24 hours before departure. Therefore, even at short notice, please contact our organisation to obtain the present state of departure dates.

Private Safaris and Additional Itineraries

Private safaris are available on special request to our reservations office in Windhoek.

For groups of four per aircraft it is also possible to extend a stay to two nights at our Kuidas or Kunene camps, in order to relax and explore the surroundings in greater detail. Should you wish an extended stay in Namibia over and above one of our safaris, please ask our reservations office for additional itinerary ideas.

Age restrictions

We have no upper age restriction on our fly-in safaris and children are welcome. Kindly notify us well in advance of the ages of children in order for us to make the necessary arrangements.

We regret that there are no discounted rates for children.

Payment

A non-refundable deposit of 20% must be paid within 7 days upon receipt of  invoice. The balance is payable a minimum of 30 days before departure. Interest is added on 30 day balances and older! In case of cancellation 30 days to 15 days prior departure, 50% of the price is payable. Within 14 days prior departure the full amount is payable. Trip Tours reserves the right to re-evaluate the quote at any time due to unforeseen circumstances. Please note that bank charges are not included in the value of our invoice and should not be deducted from the invoice.

Indemnity

Trip Tours nor any person, agent acting for, through or on behalf of the Company, do not accept responsibility for any deaths, injury or illness sustained or suffered by any person, or theft, loss or damage to any property, occurring within or arising from situations under its control howsoever caused, and whether allegedly due to the negligence of above mentioned Companies, or any of their staff or agents, or arising from the use of any facilities made available.

• Hatmansvalley                       • Himba woman                        • Dunes at Sossusvlei

• Desert elephant in the Huab River                        • Dunes at Sossusvlei

• Terrasbay – roaring dunes                                 • Purros camp in the Hoarusib Valley

• On route to Puros – Hoarusib Valley

• Seal colony                                                        •Coastline

•On route to Kuidas camp                                  •Himbas at the Kunene

• Organ pipes on route to Kuidas                                        • Ugab formation

• Wolwedans                                                       • Puros Camp

• Kunene River                                                    • Shipwreck along skeleton coast

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