Namibia Road Trip: Camping with a Rooftop Tent. The Route, Highlights, and Tips
- jorismachholz
- Apr 29
- 12 min read
Updated: May 1
A road trip through Namibia is an experience for the senses – endless desert landscapes, wild animals in the wild, and the pure taste of freedom. But what makes the trip even more intense? A rooftop tent! Instead of staying in hotels or lodges, we experienced the wilderness up close – with spectacular sunrises right on our doorstep and the soothing sounds of the African bush as we drifted off to sleep.
In this report, I'll take you along on our journey: from the planning and route to the unforgettable highlights. I'll share valuable tips for traveling with a rooftop tent and show why this type of camping is not only practical but also a truly unique experience.
Table of Contents
Why a Rooftop Tent Road Trip in Namibia?
Advantages & Unique Experiences
Why Namibia is perfect for this kind of travel
Overview of the entire route
Key stops & highlights (e.g. Etosha, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Spitzkoppe)
Driving times & road conditions
Highlights & Experiences Along the Way
Wildlife sightings (Big Five & more)
Camping in the wild (unique atmosphere & challenges)
Encounters & unforgettable moments
Tips for Traveling Namibia with a Rooftop Tent
Best time to travel & weather conditions
Must-have gear & equipment
Safety & wild camping rules
Major expenses (rental car, campsites, food)
Money-saving tips for travelers in Namibia
Conclusion: Is a Rooftop Tent Road Trip in Namibia Worth It?
„I never knew a morning in Africa when I woke up and was not happy.“ – Ernest Hemingway
Why is a roadtrip with roof tent the best choice to explore Namibia
A road trip with a rooftop tent in Namibia offers a unique blend of adventure, freedom, and closeness to nature. Few other ways of traveling allow you to experience the country as intensely. As you set up camp under the African night sky, enjoy the crackling of the campfire, and listen to the sounds of the wilderness, you will feel Namibia in its purest form. The only way to be even closer to nature is by sleeping under the open sky!
Another advantage: Namibia’s climate is pleasantly warm all year round – perfect for camping! Even during the cooler months, the nights are often mild, making camping a comfortable option.
In addition to the adventure and nature aspect, price is also a major factor: Camping is significantly cheaper than staying in lodges. Many lodges even offer their own campsites with clean restrooms, electricity, and water points. In Etosha, we paid around 460 N$ (approx. €23.50) per person per night, while prices outside the national park often ranged between 200-300 N$ (€10-15) – a fraction of the cost of a lodge, which can easily be five times more expensive.
Of course, there are also challenges: Campers are exposed to the elements. Rain and storms can make camping uncomfortable – in such cases, retreating to the car is the only option. Additionally, renting a rooftop tent camper is more expensive than a regular rental car, but with the large number of providers, there are significant price differences.
Bonus Tip: During the off-season, you can often save over 50%! Keep an eye out for special deals – many rental companies offer discounts if you book the vehicle for a minimum number of days.
Our Route: 2 Weeks in Namibia with rooftop tent
A trip through Namibia is a real adventure. Our route leads us from Windhoek towards the Etosha Nationalpark, the Skeleton Coast, Swakopmund. Next to the Namib desert, back to Walvis Bay, and with last stop in Spitzkoppe back to Windhoek. Here I share the highlights, experiences and some bonus tipps for your journey.
Starting in Windhoek – Arrival & Preparation
After landing in Windhoek, you can get cash directly at the airport and buy a local SIM card – we had a great experience with MTC. At the terminal, our shuttle driver is already waiting with a name sign and takes us to the car rental company, where we pick up our rooftop tent camping vehicle. After a short briefing, the adventure can begin! By the way, our rental company is Asco Car Hire, and I have absolutely nothing bad to say about them!
Driving in Namibia is quite different from Germany: Left-hand traffic, few paved roads, and a lot of gravel. The so-called "Gravel Roads" are bumpy and require careful driving. Many rental companies impose a maximum speed limit of 80 km/h, even though the official limit is up to 100 km/h.
First Stop: Waterberg Plateau
To get used to the car and road conditions, we plan our first overnight stay at the Waterberg Plateau. This impressive rock massif rises from the vast plains and offers a fantastic view. After our first night in the rooftop tent, we hike up to the plateau and enjoy the scenery. A perfect way to slowly ease into the adventure!
Etosha National Park – The Safari Highlight
The next day, we head towards Etosha National Park. On the way, we stop in Otjiwarongo to get a local SIM card and take a short break. Namibia is vast, and even seemingly short distances take more time than expected. As a result, we arrive later than planned and have to find a place to stay spontaneously.
Early in the morning, we continue to the park entrance. Here, a brief check is conducted for drones, weapons, and meat products (to protect the animals from diseases). After filling out the permit, we are finally on our way – and are immediately greeted by the first giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
Our original plan was to cross Etosha in two days, but the fascinating wildlife keeps us captivated for longer than expected. We extend our stay to four days to fully enjoy the safari experience!
From Etosha to Skeleton Coast
After four intensive days of Safari, we're leaving the Nationalpark in the afternoon and are heading towards Palmwag. Palmwag is just a stop over, because of the long distance between the two parks.
But then the first challenge: No internet - no payments with credit card! In the whole are there's no service and we have to fill up the diesel tank. Our last reserves of Namibia Dollars are just enough for a few liters, but we'll make it to the gas station 250km away.
Tipp: always have enough cash!
Swakopmund – Back to Civilization
After the barren, almost eerie Skeleton Coast – marked by shipwrecks and scattered bones – we arrive in Swakopmund. The contrast couldn’t be greater: The town offers restaurants, shops, and a beautiful beach promenade. We take a well-deserved break and decide to stay for a second night – a much-needed "rest day" after the long drives.
Namib Desert & Sossusvlei – A Natural Wonder
Our next major highlight is the Namib Desert, home to the world-famous dunes of Sossusvlei. We spend the night at a Gondwana Collection campsite (price: approx. 230 N$ per person) before setting off early the next morning.
But then, disappointment strikes: A storm has made the access road impassable! We have to wait until the next day to explore the dunes – an unforgettable experience, even though the sky remains cloudy.
The surreal, 1,000-year-old dead trees of Deadvlei create an almost magical atmosphere. An absolute must-see on any Namibia trip!
Final Stretch: Walvis Bay, Spitzkoppe & Return to Windhoek
After our adventure in the Namib Desert, we made our way back to the coast. Our second-to-last stop was Walvis Bay, a lively port city south of Swakopmund. Here, we took the chance to admire the famous flamingo colonies in the lagoon and enjoy the ocean breeze one last time before heading back inland.
Our Last Night: Spitzkoppe
Our final night was spent at Spitzkoppe, an awe-inspiring rock formation often referred to as the "Matterhorn of Namibia." Here, we wrapped up our journey in the midst of a breathtaking landscape – enjoying a cozy braai (BBQ), a last Savanna Dry cider, and the peaceful silence of the African bush. The starry sky over Spitzkoppe was a perfect finale to our adventure – a moment we will cherish forever.
The next morning, we set off for Windhoek. The well-maintained road made the drive back easy, and after two weeks of adventure, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable encounters, we arrived back in Namibia’s capital – with hearts full of memories and a firm resolve to one day return.
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Essential Tips for Your Namibia Road Trip
Don’t forget cash – Credit card payments aren’t always accepted.
Drive slowly – Gravel roads can be tricky, and accidents due to speeding are common.
Stay flexible – Spontaneous changes can make your trip even more rewarding.
Start early – The best safari moments happen in the morning.
Carry enough water & diesel – Gas stations are scarce, and temperatures can get extreme.
With these tips and our route, you have the perfect foundation for your own Namibia road trip – packed with adventure, wilderness, and breathtaking landscapes!
Namibia Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Unforgettable Experiences
Namibia is a land of contrasts – from endless desert landscapes to breathtaking wildlife. Here are the absolute highlights you shouldn’t miss on your journey:
Sossusvlei & the Magic of the Desert
The Sossusvlei Valley is one of Namibia’s most spectacular sights. The iconic red sand dunes change color throughout the day, creating a mesmerizing landscape. A must-see is Deadvlei, where ancient, dead acacia trees stand on a cracked white clay pan against the backdrop of towering red dunes – a surreal and otherworldly sight.
Safari Adventures & Wildlife Encounters
Experiencing Namibia’s wildlife in its natural habitat is an absolute highlight. There’s no guarantee of seeing the Big Five, but that’s exactly what makes every safari so exciting. My personal highlight? Two cheetahs staring at us with their striking amber eyes – an unforgettable moment!
The Breathtaking Night Sky
At night, Namibia unveils a special kind of magic: a sky full of stars! With zero light pollution, you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye. If you have a camera and a tripod, long exposure shots will capture the stunning celestial display – a must for astrophotography lovers!
Vast Landscapes & Ultimate Road Trip Feeling
Namibia is nearly twice the size of Germany but has fewer than three million inhabitants, making it one of the least densely populated countries in the world. Long, empty roads, endless horizons, and ever-changing landscapes make every road trip an adventure. If you enjoy hours of driving through the wilderness, be sure to bring podcasts or audiobooks to keep you entertained.
The Warmth of the People
The joy for life among Namibians is contagious. Hospitality is a big deal here – whether it’s sharing a BBQ with fellow campers or helping each other out on the road. This friendly and helpful mentality makes traveling in Namibia an especially pleasant experience.
Tips for Traveling with a Rooftop Tent in Namibia
A road trip with a rooftop tent is the perfect way to explore Namibia. You’ll be immersed in nature, enjoy maximum flexibility, and can stay overnight in some of the most stunning locations. To ensure your adventure runs smoothly, here are essential tips on weather, gear, and safety.
Best Travel Time & Weather Conditions
Namibia has a dry desert climate with hot days and cold nights. The best time to visit depends on your travel goals:
May – September (Winter): Pleasantly cool temperatures, little rain, and the best time for safaris, as animals gather at waterholes. However, nights can get very cold!
October – April (Summer): Warmer, with occasional rain showers (especially in the north). Ideal for landscape photography, but hotter and more humid in some regions.
Wind Factor: Namibia can be extremely windy, especially in the Namib Desert. Park your vehicle in a wind-sheltered spot to protect your rooftop tent.
Must-Have Gear for a Rooftop Tent Adventure
In addition to standard camping essentials, some items are especially important for Namibia. Check that your rental vehicle includes these:
Warm Sleeping Bag & Blanket – Nighttime temperatures in the desert can drop below 5°C.
Sturdy Camping Chairs & Table – Not all campsites provide seating.
Reliable Lighting – A headlamp and flashlight are crucial since some camps have no electricity.
Extra Water Canister – Some areas lack water sources. Plan 5L per person per day.
Spare Tire & Tools – Gravel roads are tough on tires, even the best ones.
Sun & Insect Protection – The sun is intense, and mosquitos can be an issue in some regions.
GPS & Offline Maps – Many remote areas have no cell reception.
Safety & Wild Camping Rules
Use Official Campsites – Wild camping is not allowed in most parts of Namibia, especially in national parks and private land. Luckily, the country offers many scenic and well-equipped campsites.
Stay in Your Tent at Night – Wild animals roam freely after dark. In areas with predators, avoid stepping out of your vehicle or tent once the sun sets.
Avoid Night Driving – Namibian roads are unlit, and wildlife is active after dark. Plan your route so you arrive before sunset.
Fuel Up Whenever Possible – Gas stations are rare in remote areas. Refuel whenever you find one and carry a spare fuel canister.
With these practical tips, you’re fully prepared to safely and memorably explore Namibia with a rooftop tent!
Costs & Budget Tips for Your Namibia Camping Trip
Namibia can be either an affordable or an expensive destination, depending on your travel style. While lodges and guided tours can be pricey, a self-drive road trip with a rooftop tent allows you to save money. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses and money-saving tips.
Estimated Costs
Rental Car & Insurance
4x4 with rooftop tent: €80–150 per day (varies by model, season & insurance).
Deposit: Usually €1,500–3,000 (refunded after return).
Insurance: Choose full coverage with no deductible, as tire & glass damage is common.
Campsites
Basic campsites: €5–15 per person.
Comfort campsites (with facilities): €15–30 per person.
Luxury lodges with camping options: €40–60 per person.
Food & Drinks
Self-catering: €5–10 per day (supermarkets are cheap, especially in cities).
Restaurants & lodges: €10–30 per meal (high-end lodges charge more).
Drinks: Beer €1.50, soft drinks €1, water €0.50–1.
National Parks & Activities
Etosha National Park: €6 per person & €1 per car/day.
Sossusvlei: €6 per person & €1 per car/day.
Guided tours (e.g., safari, dune buggy, boat trips): €50–150 per person.
Fuel Costs
Price per liter: €1–1.50.
Consumption: A 4x4 typically uses 10–14L/100 km, so budget accordingly.
Flights
Direct flights to Windhoek: €700–1,200 (round trip), depending on the season.
Budget Travel Tips for Namibia
Travel during shoulder season (May & October) – cheaper flights & car rentals.
Book early – rental cars and popular campsites sell out months in advance.
Self-cater – cooking your own food saves a lot of money.
Refuel at major gas stations to avoid high prices in remote areas.
Carry cash – rural areas may not accept cards.
Buy a local SIM card – avoids roaming fees & helps with navigation.
Stick to official campsites – safer & affordable.
Final Thoughts
Namibia isn’t a typical budget destination, but smart planning can help you save money – especially by camping, cooking your own meals, and choosing the right travel season.
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Final Thoughts on My Namibia Journey
Even now, I am overwhelmed by the countless impressions Namibia has left on me. Two weeks were barely enough to scratch the surface of this country’s diversity – let alone process all the experiences. Even back in Germany, the adventure lingers, as if my mind is reliving the journey over and over again. Maybe you know this feeling?
Saying goodbye was hard – too hard to feel ready to return home. Namibia has completely captivated me, and every fiber of my being tells me: I have to come back! Even the small mishaps and challenges only added to the adventure, making it even more unforgettable. The landscapes were simply breathtaking, their variety beyond words.
We covered over 4,000 kilometers in our car – and yet, we only scratched the surface of what this country has to offer. Some roads felt endless, the vastness almost monotonous. But then, suddenly, a small settlement appeared – often without electricity or internet. These moments always make me reflect on how privileged our daily lives are and how insignificant many of our everyday worries seem in comparison.
One thing is certain: Namibia, we will meet again! The safari was a definite highlight – so much so that, even during the trip, we were already looking into more safari adventures. Looking back, there are only a few things I would do differently next time:
Avoid camping inside Etosha National Park and stay in the quieter lodges outside.
Plan safaris in the early morning & late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Bring enough cash – about 2,000–3,000 NAD as a safety buffer.
Namibia is not just a trip – it’s an experience that stays with you.
Hopefully this travel blog will help you to organize your trip through Namibia. I'd appreciate some feedback, some comments below or buy me a coffee. This helps to create more posts like this one.
See you next time,
Joris
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