Enduro trips through Namibia

You will be picked up at Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek and have a 45-kilometer transfer to Windhoek. Here we stroll through the colorful hustle and bustle and become familiar with the African mentality, take care of formalities, purchases like currency exchange, phone cards, sun and mosquito protection, buy Biltong (dried meat) or similar for the journey, because the next day we are going to the Namib Desert. Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, combines modern urban lifestyle with African flair. Attractions like the Christus Church, the Tintenpalast (seat of Parliament), and the Alte Feste, a historical museum, provide insights into the city's eventful history.

Our round trip with the motorcycle takes us northwest to Okahandja, about 70 kilometers away. The city is famous for its lively market, where you can find local crafts and wooden carvings. Okahandja is also known as a center of Herero culture, and the Herero cemetery is an important historical site. We continue on off-road gravel roads through wide landscapes with acacia trees and wildlife. Keep an eye out for antelopes. The Waterberg Plateau, a geological wonder, was the site of the historic Battle of Waterberg in 1904 during the Herero and Nama uprising. In the late afternoon, we will take a hike to the plateau summit to enjoy the sunset and the breathtaking view. The Waterberg Plateau Park is also a conservation area for endangered species such as rhinos and buffaloes.

In the morning we leave the Waterberg Plateau Park and continue on off-road gravel roads north towards Grootfontein. Along the way, we visit the Hoba Meteorite, the largest known meteorite on Earth, which weighs over 60 tons. After lunch, our adventurous journey takes us on bumpy roads to Tsumkwe, a remote and culturally significant area of Namibia known as the traditional land of the San (Bushmen). We spend the night at the Tsumkwe Lodge and experience the unique culture of the San up close. In Tsumkwe, you can also witness traditional dances and hunting techniques of the San.

Our motorcycle journey continues east to the Dobe border crossing into Botswana, where vast savannas stretch to the horizon. At the T-junction, we head north and have to prepare for a bumpy asphalt road. Despite the road conditions, the experiences in this remote region of Africa are unforgettable. We reach the Guma Island Camp, an oasis in the midst of the Okavango Delta, one of the largest and most impressive wetlands in the world, known for its rich wildlife and plant life. The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to numerous wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and a variety of bird species.

Wake up to the call of the fish eagle, one of the most distinctive bird sounds in Africa. On our drive along the bumpy road, you can spot these majestic birds along the riverbanks. In Shakawe, we refuel and cross the border back to Namibia into the Caprivi Strip, now called the Zambezi Region. This region is known for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes. We traverse the Mahango National Park and reach the Mahango Lodge. On a sunset boat trip, you can observe elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The Mahango National Park is known for its rich wildlife and the impressive river landscapes of the Okavango.

In Divundu we take the well-maintained tar road to Katima Mulilo. The Zambezi region is home to several national parks and reserves that offer unique landscapes and wildlife. Look out for elephants crossing the road. We spend the night on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. Katima Mulilo, the main town of the region, played an important role during Namibia's struggle for independence and today offers a mix of culture and history. Attractions like the Zambezi Museum and the Caprivi Arts Centre are worth a visit.

Our shorter journey takes us from Katima Mulilo to the Senyati Safari Camp. The crossing of the Ngoma Bridge, which spans the Chobe River and marks the border between Namibia and Botswana, is a highlight. The road along the Chobe River often offers wildlife sightings, especially of elephants and buffalo. The Senyati Safari Camp is known for its proximity to elephants, which regularly visit the camp, ensuring an exciting experience. Nearby is also the Chobe National Park, a paradise for wildlife watching.

The border crossing to Zimbabwe by motorcycle can be frustrating and time-consuming, so we take a shuttle ride from the lodge for a day trip and wait for our guide to sort out all the documents. Then we are greeted by the "Mosi-oa-Tunya" - "the smoke that thunders," one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world. Experience the majestic waterfall, explore the town of Victoria Falls, and visit the local markets before we return to the Senyati Safari Camp. The Victoria Falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer numerous activities such as helicopter flights, bungee jumping, and white-water rafting.

We continue our motorcycle trip south on the "Elephant Highway" towards Nata. Today is a day for wildlife observation, so the route is relatively short. In the afternoon, you can relax by the pool and watch elephants visiting the waterhole. Overnight stay at the Elephant Sands Lodge, known for its spectacular elephant encounters. The lodge is located in a nature reserve that serves as a home for many elephants.

In Nata we change direction and head east with our machines. The journey takes us past the vast salt pans of the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt pans in the world. These provide unique photo opportunities and the chance to experience the expansiveness of the Botswana landscape. We take an excursion onto the pan and spend the night at the quirky Planet Baobab, which is nestled among ancient baobab trees. Enjoy a traditional African dinner under the stars. The Makgadikgadi Pans are a remnant of an ancient lake and offer fascinating landscapes as well as a rich wildlife during the rainy season.

Today we have a shorter drive to Maun, the 'gateway to the Okavango Delta.' Maun is known for its vibrant atmosphere and as a starting point for safari adventures. A scenic flight over the Okavango Delta offers the opportunity to see the impressive floodplains and channels from a bird's eye view. We will spend the night at the rustic Audi Camp on the Thamalakane River, which provides a picturesque setting. Maun is also a hub for the craft market, where local artworks and souvenirs can be purchased.

Early start on the long journey back to Namibia. We drive through bushland and small villages and take a lunch break in Ghanzi, an important trading center in the region. After crossing the border at Buitepos, we relax at the East End Rest Camp, our last bush camp. Ghanzi is also known as the 'Heart of the Kalahari' and offers insights into the life of the San and the culture of the region.

For a varied ride, we take a scenic Bushveld gravel road towards Gobabis, which lets us feel the Enduro sensation once again. On the long stretch to Windhoek, we pass through only two small towns. Our Botswana-Namibia motorcycle tour was a great mix of adventure holiday, wildlife, culture, and natural beauty that brought us closer to the splendor of Africa. Gobabis is known as the 'Gateway to the Kalahari' and offers the opportunity to explore local markets and cultural sites.

After one last relaxed breakfast, we make our way to the airport for your flight home. Our motorcycle trip through Botswana and Namibia has brought us the beauty and simplicity of Africa, and will remain unforgettable.