Namibia self drive tour, deserts and canyons

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION
Our commitment to offering holidays with a positive impact is exemplified through our innovative approach and our groundbreaking carbon scoring system, a world-first initiative enabling us to meticulously evaluate the environmental footprint of each tailor-made trip. Actively engaging with our suppliers, we encourage their participation in our carbon-scoring survey, fostering collaboration that yields valuable insights into unique carbon scores and identifies areas for sustainability excellence and improvement.

Transparency is paramount, and we extend it to our customers by individually assessing each trip, providing a personalised carbon score for your tailor-made holiday. This empowers you to make informed choices aligned with your values.

This Namibia self-drive tour adheres to responsible travel practices, focusing on carbon reduction across various stages of the journey. Self-driving across the country significantly reduces the need for multiple flights, helping to cut down on emissions. The lodges chosen for this tour also contribute to sustainable practices. For instance, Okonjima Plains Camp uses solar water heating and energy-efficient lighting to minimize energy consumption, while Grootberg Lodge's commitment to water conservation and the use of locally sourced building materials reduces its overall carbon footprint. Additionally, the use of fuel-efficient vehicles for self-driving helps further reduce the trip’s carbon impact.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
The tour incorporates stays at lodges deeply committed to conservation, helping protect Namibia’s unique ecosystems. Okonjima Plains Camp is home to the AfriCat Foundation, which rehabilitates predators and conducts vital research on endangered species, including leopards and pangolins. Etosha National Park is one of Africa's largest and most significant game reserves, dedicated to wildlife conservation and habitat protection. Grootberg Lodge works alongside the Namibian Lion Trust, supporting predator conservation through initiatives like the Predator Fund, which compensates farmers for livestock losses due to predators. These lodges not only contribute to wildlife protection but also provide guests with educational opportunities to appreciate and support Namibia’s natural heritage.

Ahead of your departure, we ensure you are well-prepared through our pre-travel online 'travel pack.' This comprehensive, paper-free resource acts as your guide, providing essential details and valuable insights for the upcoming adventure. Practical guidelines on mindful packing are included to minimise luggage and reduce overall weight, contributing to lower fuel consumption.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
We are absolutely committed to the principle of responsible travel, and part of this means ensuring that local communities are at the centre of our supply chain on every facet of our itineraries. To enhance our customers' experiences and foster a deeper understanding of the delicate ecological balance of the regions they visit, our partners primarily employ local guides. These knowledgeable guides possess valuable insights into the land, wildlife, and environment.

On this Namibia Self-Drive Tour, lodges like Grootberg Lodge exemplify community-centered tourism. Grootberg is owned and managed by the #Khoadi-//Hoas Conservancy, ensuring revenue flows directly into local communities, supporting healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Okonjima Plains Camp further supports the local economy by employing and training residents in hospitality and conservation, fostering skills development and long-term sustainability

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY
Grootberg Lodge is part of a pioneering conservancy model, empowering indigenous communities to lead decision-making processes and manage natural resources sustainably. This approach ensures tourism benefits are equitably shared while preserving cultural heritage. Okonjima’s AfriCat Foundation promotes inclusive education through conservation programs, engaging local youth and fostering environmental awareness across socio-economic divides.