From CAD 4,750
Guarantee
Small Group
Unknown
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Namibia is a vast country with wide-open spaces and endless skies. Dunes gradually turn into granite hills, while rocky outcrops give way to vast plains where elephants, giraffes and lions roam. Travelling through the wilderness by bike is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the varied landscape of this desert nation and there is also the unique experience of cycling over dunes on a modified fat bike.
Discover the highlights and hidden secrets of the country on two wheels, watch the sun rise over some of the tallest dunes in the world and experience game drives in one of the best game reserves in southern Africa, Etosha National Park.
Profile
— Accommodation: 4 Classic nights (hotels/lodges), 7 Simple nights (full-service camping) — Eight days of cycling (including a morning fat biking) with full vehicle support — 90 percent public gravel roads, 10 percent paved roads — Some gentle hills and mostly along quiet roads — Group normally 4 to 12. Minimum age: 16 — E-bikes available for an additional cost
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 4 Classic nights (hotels/lodges), 7 Simple nights (full-service camping) — Eight days of cycling (including a morning fat biking) with full vehicle support — 90 percent public gravel roads, 10 percent paved roads — Some gentle hills and mostly along quiet roads — Group normally 4 to 12. Minimum age: 16 — E-bikes available for an additional cost
Trip For You
This trip is graded Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challlenging). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Average daily distance: 24mi (39km)
Number of cycling days: Eight (including a morning fat biking)Vehicle support: Fully supported with the exception of the fat biking excursion
Bikes: You will typically be riding entry level 29er Mtb Hardtail (Silverback / GT) for the majority of the trip. The hardtail aluminium frame is light and perfect for riding on road and offroad tracks. For more experienced riders wanting to bring your own bikes, please ensure that it is equipped with tubeless tyres and properly serviced prior to joining the trip. For a more comfortable ride, you can rent a full suspension mountain bike or E-bike (S-works / specialised) locally for the tour.
Route: The cycling is approximately 90 percent on open public gravel/dirt roads or off road and 10 percent on paved roads. There is a mix of terrain, including some rolling rides, flat, downhill and uphill sections. The support vehicle is available, especially for the more challenging sections. Most of the cycling on roads is with little traffic, though there may be some busier sections. The last 2 rides are on jeep track roads on a reserve.
The fat biking on dunes is with a specialist guide and on modified bikes. These are mountain bikes fitted with extra large tyres, making it easier to ride on sand and distributes the rider's mass across a larger area, enabling more traction and stops the bike from sinking into the sand. You receive a tutorial before setting off but no experience is necessary. The terrain is rolling and you have the opportunity to cycle some steep gradients down the dunes. However, there is always the option of cycling down a gentler slope.
Safety: Helmets must be worn by all cyclists in Namibia.
Itinerary: On all days, we may do less or more cycling than stated in the Trip Notes. This depends on the ability and preference of the group plus the local conditions at the time. We also have many early starts.
Weather: It can get hot in Namibia and shade is not common on most of the rides.
Important flight information: If you’re booking your own flights, you should not book flights leaving before 3pm on the departure day.
Group Description
The trip is led by an experienced cycling guide and accompanied by a driver and camp assistant. The group is typically between four and 12 cyclists.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, two lunches, five dinners are included.
When staying at campsites, our guides cook for you. These will be hearty meals cooked over an open fire; expect braai (barbecue), potjie (stew) and stir fries for dinner. Breakfasts are continental and usually consist of cereals, coffee, yoghurt, muesli, fresh fruit or the occasional fried breakfast. For lunch, expect a good selection of sandwich ingredients such as cheese and cold meats plus pasta and salads. Our support vehicle carries a good selection of snacks and water, which are available to access every 9mi (15km) or so when the group stops.
Vegetarians can be catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests.
Transportation
The normal support vehicle, which is also used for the Etosha game drives, is a specially modified safari truck with 10 to 12 seats. Seating is forward facing and the windows are large and easy to open. Smaller groups may be in a Hilux/Land Cruiser. People are expected to move around to permit everyone a chance to have a window seat. There is plenty of legroom and packing space as well as a reference library and icebox. Please note, it is not safe to stand when the vehicle is moving, please remain seated until the vehicle stops, even on game drives. The bikes are stored in or on top of a trailer towed by the vehicle.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Arebbusch Lodge, Cnr of Golf & Auas Rd, Olympia, Windhoek
Phone: +264 61 252 255
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Windhoek Airport (WDH)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
The last night of the trip is spent in the Waterberg Plateau Park and the tour finishes in Windhoek. The group transfer back to Windhoek is scheduled to align with a chosen flight to London, UK; therefore, you should not book flights leaving before then. Please contact your sales representative for the timings of this flight. Free airport departure transfers are only available for return flights departing after the chosen flight route to London – from our Windhoek hotel (if you have booked post tour accommodation) to the airport.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Weather Information
June, July and August, while clear and warm during the day, it can be cold and even freezing at night. Between September and May, it is considerably warmer with the time between October and April being the hottest, when it often reaches 30C (86F). However, it is always a dry heat and the temperature does drop at night. The wet season is between November and February (this can vary a month either side), but this is not a bad time to go as the desert blooms after rainfall and it never rains for very long.
Spending Money
Budget around 370 Namibian dollars (US$20) a day for non-included meals and snacks.
Optional excursions
There are several optional activities in Swakopmund, such as ocean fishing, quad biking and sandboarding, but there’s plenty to occupy you if you don’t participate. Prices are approximate (and depend on group size). Pay in local currency or card.
— Quad biking: 850 Namibian dollars (US$58) for two hours or 600 dollars (US$40) for one hour — Flight over Sossusvlei: 5,300 dollars (US$360) — Desert night drive (Day 3): 200 dollars (US$13.50) — Township tour: 750 dollars (US$52)
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work. Tipping is entirely optional but we recommend approximately 25-45 Namibian dollars (US$1.70-US$3) per person per day in, either local currency or any other major denomination. For other staff such as porters, we recommend that you budget for a further US$5-US$8. A standard tip in restaurants and bars is 10 percent, though this is voluntary and can be declined if service was unsatisfactory.
Highlights
— Cycle through the Namibian wilderness with a like-minded group — Safari in Etosha National Park, searching for lions, elephants and more — Hop on a fat bike to explore the Swakopmund dunes — Witness sunrise from the summit of a towering dune in Sossusvlei — Camp under the starry Namibian sky, visiting floodlit waterholes where wildlife gathers
Trip Details
Product Code: 4221
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: vehicle.
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: MZN
Starts: Windhoek, Etosha National Park
Finishes: Windhoek, Etosha National Park
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts, two lunches, five dinners — All accommodation — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Local bike hireAccommodation
Hotels and campingOn this cycling adventure in Namibia, we spend seven nights camping and four nights in hotels – bring your swimwear, most of the places we stay have pools. Below is a rundown of the hotels we typically use and some advice on camping. Hotels Windhoek: Arebbusch Lodge (night 1) Our guesthouse is only a 10-minute drive from the city centre yet is spacious with two swimming pools and one of the best pizzerias in the capital. It also has a beautiful garden with indigenous trees. Swakopmund: Prost Hotel (nights 5-6) After a few camping nights, we hop back into a clean, comfy room with a stay at the Prost Hotel. When we’re not out riding dunes on fat bikes, this 28-room hotel is well-placed for visiting Swakopmund and its pubs, restaurants, and cake and coffee shops. Waterberg: Waterberg Resort (night 11) We spend our final night of the trip in the comforts of the Waterberg Resort, where we can sink into a comfy bed. Find further relaxation in the swimming pool and enjoy our last night together in the restaurant and bar. Camping Namibia is a fantastic destination for camping. The landscapes are grand and unpopulated, wildlife is widespread plus the campsites are clean and well maintained. All communal camping gear is provided, including spacious two-person dome tents, thick foam mattresses and folding stools, although you need to take your own sleeping bag and pillow. In Etosha, we stay within the national park itself – a huge plus for any animal lover and a highlight of the trip for many. The resorts we use (nights 8-9) are either Okaukuejo, Halali or Namutoni. Each location has a restaurant, swimming pool and bar but the highlights are the flood-lit waterholes where wildlife regularly stops to drink and bathe. Worth knowing Due to the limited amount of accommodation within Etosha National Park, it may be necessary to sleep outside the park on some or all of the nights we are there.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 4750 (CAD 396 /day)
Itinerary
Depending on your arrival time at the hotel, there is time today to go into Windhoek and explore the city at your own pace or you can relax at the lodge. Accommodation: Arebbusch Lodge (or similar)
Leaving Windhoek, we start with a short transfer towards the Khomas Hochland and the top of the Kupferberg Pass. From here, we get our first taste of cycling through the amazing landscapes of Namibia as we descend along winding roads past private farms and local wildlife, getting used to the terrain for about 28mi (45km) while stopping regularly for snacks and pictures. Our campsite tonight is on a family-owned farm surrounded by mountains. There's a dipping pool if you'd like to cool down and a small shop serving locally sourced and homegrown products. Accommodation: Stofpad Lodge & Camping (or similar)
Leaving camp on our bikes, we continue along gravel roads on rolling hills. We cycle down the Remhoogte pass to the west where we will soon find open plains towards the desert. We aim to get to Solitaire for lunch and hopefully have the opportunity to try the local apple crumble, which has been called the best in the Southern Hemisphere. After lunch, we transfer to Sesriem. If we don’t visit Solitaire this day we will stop at Solitaire again on day 4. Accommodation: Sesriem Camp (or similar)
Waking early, we drive 25mi (40km) to some of the highest dunes in the world before climbing Dune 40 or 45 as the first sunrays peak over the horizon and hit the red-ochre sand. After descending, we have breakfast with a view before taking to our bikes for a ride back to Sesriem along a paved road cutting through the towering dunes. Depending on the weather, we may be able to do a 15.5mi (25km) ride to Sossusvlei parking area and have a quick walk to Hiddenvlei or optional 4x4 ride to Deadvlei. We might also return from Dune 40 and cycle 40km back to Sesriem. After lunch at camp, we transfer to Solitaire. In the afternoon, we can visit the Namib Carnivore Conservation Centre to see cheetahs (depending on time, we may go tomorrow morning). Accommodation: Solitaire Camp (or similar)
After a short transfer, or we cycle from camp, we continue on our journey north, cycling towards the Tropic of Capricorn. If conditions allow, we have the option of cycling over the Kuiseb Pass or a different route towards the coast. With luck, we should see ostriches, springbok, gemsbok and mountain zebras. Once again, we end our ride in the shadow of Guab Pass before transferring to Walvis Bay, which is known for its flamingos. From here, we continue to Swakopmund, driving with the ocean on the right and the dunes on the left. Accommodation: Prost Hotel (or similar)
This morning, we are introduced to our modified fat bikes and cycle into the vast expanse of dunes surrounding Swakopmund. Fat bikes have very wide tyres that make it possible to cycle over sand and explore areas that regular mountain bikes are unable to reach. Our ride takes approximately 2hr 30min to 3hr 30min and includes a coastline section if the tide is in our favour. On our return to Swakopmund, we have a free afternoon to enjoy one of the many optional activities available nearby, such as sandboarding or quad biking. If you feel like relaxing, this Germanic town is renowned for its cake and coffee shops. Accommodation: Prost Hotel (or similar)
We leave Swakopmund this morning , passing the nearby Moon Valley landscape, for Spitzkoppe where we have an early lunch. This impressive granite peak rising from the gravel plains is known as the Matterhorn of Namibia. We explore the area on foot in the late afternoon. When there have been good rains, it may be possible to find rock pools where we can take a refreshing dip. Later in the afternoon, we can go on an optional bike ride or short hike in the area. Accommodation: Spitzkoppe Camp (or similar)
After a relaxing start to the morning, we transfer to Etosha National Park, one of the best game-viewing parks in southern Africa. We go on a late afternoon game drive in search of various wildlife, including elephants, rhinos and lions. In camp, we can sit by the watering hole, which is floodlit at night, and enjoy the living theatre that unfolds as animals come to drink the water. Accommodation: Okaukuejo Camp (or similar)
Today is dedicated to safari. We go on morning and afternoon game drives and have the opportunity to relax in camp during the heat of the day when the wildlife hides from the Namibian sun. Accommodation: Okaukuejo Camp (or similar)
We leave Etosha National Park and transfer approximately 75mi (120km) to Otjiwa, the oldest safari lodge in Namibia. After lunch, we go on an afternoon ride along the jeep tracks and hopefully see some of the local wildlife. For our last night of camping, we enjoy a delicious braai (barbecue) under the African night sky. Accommodation: Otjiwa Safari Camp (or similar)
This morning, we cycle from camp along the jeep tracks of Otjiwa Lodge for about three hours while looking for wildlife. We then transfer to our accommodation at the impressive red table mountain formation of the Waterberg Plateau, where we can cool off in the pool and enjoy our last night of the trip in a comfortable room. This afternoon, we can also go for a walk on the Waterberg Plateau. Accommodation: Waterberg Lodge (or similar)
A 3hr 30min drive brings us back to Windhoek, where our adventure ends. Bid farewell to new-found friends and begin your return journey home. If you’d like the adventure to continue, speak to our sales representative about extending your stay. Please note: The group transfer back to Windhoek is scheduled to align with a chosen flight to London, UK; therefore, you should not book flights leaving before then. Please contact your sales representative for the timings of this flight.
Similar Experiences
Namibia Discovery
14 Days from CAD 4,016
Premium Namibia
10 Days from CAD 5,264
Cape & Dunes Northbound: Wildlife & Starry Night Skies
13 Days from CAD 2,384
Cape & Dunes Discoverer
12 Days from CAD 2,586
Delta & Falls Discoverer
8 Days from CAD 2,399
Cape Town to Namibia Overland Safari
13 Days from CAD 2,049
Victoria Falls to Cape Town Overland Safari
21 Days from CAD 2,969
Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Sally Moffatt - Traveled, October 2019
Oct 19 The cycling was hard on gravel and sand roads in 35 degree heat with a head wind. If you are not experienced in off road this trip will feel more like a grade 4 . Saying that some of the riding was amazing. Riding on the fat boy cycles over the dunes for nearly 4 hours was amazing and should be on peoples bucket list. The wild life matched expectation , Elephants, lions, white and black Rhino,cheaters. Camp sites were clean but basic, they were lovely sitting in the dessert watching the stars. Most Inspirational Moment Cycling in the game reserve on the last day was brilliant . 3 1/2 hours of off road cycling next to white Rhino , an experience not to be missed. Thoughts on Group Leader Hanz was very good . He changed the cycling when the weather was too bad ( sand storm) . As their was only one cycling guide for a group of 12 he managed to accommodate us all. Advice for Potential Travellers If you you go when we did I would take a sheet to put on the mattress as well as a sleeping bag as some nights it was too hot with the sleeping bad Their were very few chances to wash clothes. Head touch was a must . Stock up on snacks when you can as shopping is very limited Show less
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/30/2019
Steph Dyer - Traveled, October 2018
Cycle Namibia A fantastic varied exciting adventure exploring Namibia, it’s breathtaking natural beauty and it’s wildlife, both large and small. A cyclists/naturalist/geologists/ photographers paradise Most Inspirational Moment Climbing the dunes, Experiencing Etosha wildlife then tiny desert animals, seeing sidewinders ... experiencing a thunderstorm Namibia style Cycling the huge vast areas was mesmerising and challenging, admiring the beauty whilst concentrating on the sandy tracks- Cycling with the game in the ranch reserve near the end of the holiday, being a few hundred yards from White rhino- without a fence! Hiddenvlek at the dunes Sundowner after cheetah experience at Solitaire lodge Thoughts on Group Leader Very good very knowledgeable on wildlife, Namibia in general. The group felt very well lead by the three team members Happy and McLoud were brilliant and the three worked well together, complementing each others skills. Stefan team leader was great, always cheerful and obliging, answered any questions we had, looked after us all. Occasionally a little light on specific details of the trip (eg how long upcoming cycle was) but we felt this was sensible as it allowed him to be flexible and he always made good decisions as to when we had had enough! I would encourage him to talk to the whole group more about history/ geography of Namibia as he had much more to tell when we asked him on a 1:1! Advice for Potential Travellers make sure you take lip salve a cycling scarf that you can soak in water to keep the dust out ear plugs for camping- some of the others will snore! camera! I don't think I ever stood up in my pedals to cycle, it's all steady, flattish and you develop skills on sand! Suggestions A beautiful country that felt safe at all times The trip felt like a Namibia adventure with cycling rather than a cycling holiday per se; this was just right as it's too hot to cycle more than 3-4hrs in any one day- and there is so much to see; this compromise is perfect. we extended our trip by b24hrs to stay in Windhoek; this gave us a chance to wind down and relax and was good value. The Independence memorial worth a trip with amazing views from its restaurant up the tower. There are a few sights to see in Windhoek and good place to buy souvenirs but I don't think recommended walking around at night , we ate in our hotel.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/13/2018
David Crookston - Traveled, September 2018
Cycle Namibia Great scenery and opportunity to see wildlife. Some hard hot slogs on slippery and dusty gravel roads. Most Inspirational Moment Scenery. Wildlife, especially rhinos at the watering hole at night at Etosha. Fantastic meals by chef McLeod. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent organizational and people skills. Knowledgeable and fit. Advice for Potential Travellers Need to be quite fit and heat tolerant. Suggestions Felt very safe and well cared for.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/03/2018
M Ward - Traveled, December 2017
Sand dunes, wildlife, endless sky A great two week trip in Namibia. Provided a great overview of the country and able to experience the vastness and emptiness of Namibia. A stunning country with lots of wildlife. The camping was fun with great meals and a refreshing pool and bar at every campsite (except one). The cycling isn’t hard, just hot and on rough gravel roads. Lots of stunning photo opportunities. Most Inspirational Moment There were many! Seeing black rhinos on two separate occasions in Etosha, cycling past baboons, zebras, warthogs and giraffes on the side of the road, the incredible sand dunes, the incredibly feeling of space and emptiness with endless horizons and far-reaching roads. The stunning night sky with so many stars. Thoughts on Group Leader Hard-working, laid-back and happy. Advice for Potential Travellers Don't expect to cycle vast distances each day...the heat and road conditions allow for only a few hours riding each morning. Think of it more as a tour of Namibia with time for exercise each morning. A lot of the roads are heavily corrugated which makes for slow and uncomfortable riding, although in the second week we had beautiful tarmac so managed a lot more miles. Always have your swimsuit in your daybag so you can take a swim to cool down and refresh as soon as you arrive at that night's rest spot. Suggestions
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2018
Christine Gausden - Traveled, January 2017
Cycling Namibia We were a small but ‘elite’ group – ‘holy moly’ – we were the beautiful family who enjoyed every aspect of this trip The challenge of the cycling conditions, in excessive heat, but in the most inspirational landscape, did not defeat us Most Inspirational Moment I chose this trip because of the physical challenge, however, my first glimpse of a lion at close quarters was almost overwhelming Thoughts on Group Leader Shane & Enrico shared the lead - always smiling - they ensured this trip was full of fun & laughter Advice for Potential Travellers The heat is excessive most days - you must keep well covered & well hydrated Suggestions This trip suited a small group - the maximum number would quite possibly make for uncomfortable vehicle transfers
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/31/2017
Susie Giles - Traveled, June 2016
Bucket List Trip I loved this trip, and seeing, climbing and then flying over the amazing dunes lived up to my expectations. Big bucket list tick for that. And the wildlife round and about, but especially in Etosha (particularly at the camp waterhole) was brilliant. Watching rhino’s preliminary mating dance, elephants bathing and a stand off with a pride of lions, from a safe distance while supping red wine, was one of life’s great experiences. Most Inspirational Moment Standing on top of the dunes at sunrise. Thoughts on Group Leader Shane and Happy did a great job and were friendly, helpful and welcoming. The cycle guide for this trip (Jaco) less so - but it didn't spoil the trip. Advice for Potential Travellers If you are not used to cycling on gravel / sand, it takes a little while to feel comfortable and can be an adventure in itself. There are some long straight stretches of tarmac (especially in the second week), which go from nowhere to nowhere, which is an experience, but not like cycling through villages etc like you get on some other trips. There is no one there! Although the scenery is stunning and changes from day to day - on any particular ride it can be quite samey, so worth bearing in mind if you are easily bored, also as it is mainly quite flat. Having said that - it's more fun being on the bike for part of the day than it would be in a truck all day and can be a bit of "zen" experience! I thought it was great - in the main:) Hire a sleeping bag from the local operator - good quality and warm enough. Book it before you go. June is a great time to go - dry and pleasantly hot days. Chilly at night - take layers. I can't imagine doing this trip in December! TOOO hot, even with early starts. This is quite basic & remote camping - and all the better for that. Fantastic star gazing. All sites had good showers and loos. One even has a surreal bath with a view! Suggestions Go see Namibia - it's an extraordinary and beautiful place. This trip is a great way to do it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/22/2016
Peter Wilkinson - Traveled, April 2016
Cycling in Namibia Namibia would not be my number ever travel destination as much of the country is ordinary and the distances between the highlights are too long. That said don’t dismiss it. The two things that most fascinated me was the seeming harmony between all the races and tribes, compared with just over the border in South Africa and the maintenance of a significant German influence in both architecture (old and new) and language. And for the latter it is over a 100 years since it was a German colony. Most Inspirational Moment The day I enjoyed most was mouching around Swakapmund soaking up the atmosphere and talking to locals and tourists alike. Thoughts on Group Leader The whole support crew (3) were excellent in their own very different ways. They obviously got on like a house on fire with each other and this helped create a very sociable atmosphere. Advice for Potential Travellers Expect gravelly roads and camping, not glamping.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/18/2016
Paul England - Traveled, March 2016
Cycle Namibia, the good, the bad and the not so ugly Some stunning landscapes and some fairly mundane cycling, but some really worthwhile experiences make this holiday a mix of average to great experiences Most Inspirational Moment Climbing Dune 40 to see the sunrise. Note we avoided Dune 45, said to be the biggest, on the advice of the group leaders recommendation, this was good advice as we avoided the crowds but still saw a great sunrise. The trip to Etosha reserve is also a great experience, though we didn't see leopards or cheetah and only a single elephant. Thoughts on Group Leader Shane very friendly and personable, got on well with everyone and tried hard to keep the group on the same page when it came to cycling. Advice for Potential Travellers Read the small print on the trip notes - a sleeping bag is essential but this is only mentioned once on page 7 after the cycling essentials. Three of us had to buy sleeping bags at the destination and these aren't easy to find, the temperature really drops at night in March and will be colder in later months! Take a bandanna to cover your face when cycling, some of the roads are very rough and dusty and passing 4x4's at speed set the dust flying. Due to the daytime heat we finished cycling by 12:00 so very often had early starts, rising at 6:30-7:00 most days. Camping is described as full service, this means you get a tent and a sleeping mat and nothing else. Aside from the sleeping bag take something as a pillow and don't forget a towel! The campsites don't have any illumination so you'll need a head torch and spare batteries. Away from Windhoek and Swakopmund there are no shops to buy basic essentials Over the nine days cycling we averaged 30 miles per day, always finishing before lunch. The support bus is on hand with water and snacks, but our support cyclist wasn't up to the task, being a new starter on a bike. Cycling conditions are not easy - I've experienced a few Exodus cycling holidays and whilst there aren't any real hills on this holiday the cycling can be hard, so if you're not sure about your fitness, cycling in heat and on rough roads this holiday is probably not for you. Suggestions Cycling in the first week is uninspiring, we found it's lots of endless roads/tracks, some of the surfaces very poor and there is little or nothing to see, our expectations of wildlife didn't materialise when we were cycling at any stage on the holiday. The second week improves in terms of landscape and wildlife. The trip notes were out of date! Aside from the missing emphasis on a sleeping bag, the promise of a trip to the Cheetah Conservation Centre on day 11 didn't arise and the overnight location had changed for day 7 with a disappointing replacement.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2016
Ian Wilson - Traveled, December 2015
Cycling through Namibia over Christmas This trip is about the scenery of Namibia. The sense of enjoyment of riding undulating gravel roads, earning the downhill coasting, the vast open spaces, getting to the end of each day to find a bar next to a pool, was all amazing. It’s not a luxury trip but drinking gin & tonic from a metal cup watching the sun go down after a day’s cycling, was priceless. Most Inspirational Moment The sunsets... Watching the sun go down in Etosha sitting by the water-hole, with drinks and ice with new friends I'd made on the trip, will never be forgotten. Thoughts on Group Leader Sven, the group leader was fantastic, he used local knowledge and experience to get the most out of each day. The two helpers were amazing too, producing meals each end of the day on a wood fire, putting up and taking down our tents whilst we relaxed, deserves special mention. Advice for Potential Travellers It is an amazing trip and you will not regret going. There are a few things which I found helped: take some sports eletrolyte tablets or powder to add to your cycling water, I got through more than I thought I would. There are some electricity recharging opportunities, but a couple of multi purpose usb spare battery packs worked a treat to keep cameras/phones topped up until you get to a lodge. Not all sinks have plugs so taking a camping one is useful! The electric socket in Namibia is the same as South Africa, it's fairly unique with large pins..a universal adapted won't fit, but you can get a SA one in Jo'berg airport. Be prepared to improvise a pillow for camping Suggestions Don't hesitate to book this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2016
Vincent Gaskell - Traveled, November 2015
Cycle Namibia This is a well organised and diverse trip. Good cycling, great and varied topography and wonderful wildlife. This is just such a good way to see a good cross section of Namibia. The campsites were terrific set in some wonderful locations and to get swimming pools in some of them is a real bonus. Most Inspirational Moment There were two great moments for me. Climbing the giant sand dune for sunrise was brilliant. The colours and shapes and shadows are awesome. The camp site in the Etosha NP was great but watching the wildlife at the water hole late into the evening was pure theatre. Thoughts on Group Leader Sven and his team were brilliant. So flexible and attentive. They worked so hard to make this trip a success for each of us in the group and the food in camp was terrific. How they manage to produce such great food is beyond me. Fantastic. Advice for Potential Travellers In November, be prepared for high day time temperatures. By noon temperatures were reaching close to 40C and Sven, our guide, quite rightly would end our rides by then each day. So do not expect to ride all day. There are also some lengthy transfers but these are needed to ensure we saw as much of the country as possible. We used these to catch up on sleep after early starts. Don't expect to see many village people. The cycling and transfer routes do not really take you through many villages. Suggestions This trip really needs a leader who is knowledgeable about wild life, the country's history, and its geology because of the huge amount of ground covered during the trip. This is were the benefit of having a local guide, Sven, and his team is so important to the success of the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/18/2015
Paul Masters - Traveled, October 2015
Exceeded my extremely high expectations Unforgettable blend of landscapes, cycling, camping, wildlife in a country which has masses to offer at great value Most Inspirational Moment Difficult to single out because the variety was enormous: the animal drama of an evening at the waterhole in Etosha; the beauty of the dunes; the sheer joy of the boat trip off Walvis Bay. Thoughts on Group Leader Sven led the trip but the team work between him, Benson and Jonas was excellent. They combined very well - manhandling the bikes repeatedly, making and breaking camp with great efficiency, cooking great food in no time, and being really good, informative travelling companions. I can't speak too highly of them. Advice for Potential Travellers Above all, if you like the look of the cycling, book! Of the options on the day off in Swakopmund/Walvis Bay, all our group opted for the boat trip and were delighted we chose that. Our November trip saw no rain at all. Everywhere we stayed had places you could hand wash kit easily, and in the conditions we had it dried very quickly. Suggestions The itinerary and structure of the trip were really well judged. The day started early so we could avoid the (greatest) heat when cycling, and the truck journeys mostly happened when it would have been too hot to do much else. Excellent way to enjoy the cycling, yet see a good bit of this vast and beautiful country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2015
KIM PAYNE - Traveled, March 2015
Great landscapes The landscapes were fantastic. Real variety of scenery from rolling hills, to endless gravel sections, lots of gorgeous sand and small towns. Namibia has some fabulous food, extremely affordable. The bikes we hired were of fantastic quality too. Most Inspirational Moment Sunrise on the Sand Dunes. Incredible. Thoughts on Group Leader He was okay. Very organised, very safety and environmental conscious. Advice for Potential Travellers Pack a pillow! The accommodation is very budget. Even the last night in the Superior Hotel was not Superior. They were basic 2 star hotels. The camping equipment was great. Tents were spacious and put up and down for us - easy camping in my book! We were there in March and didn't really need a sleeping bag or any wet weather gear. Suggestions If you want a cycle trip that has lots of villages and locals enroute - don't cycle in Namibia! We didn't come across many children or people on the cycle days. It was not at all like cycling the Cape Town Garden Route or Vietnam/Croatia that I have done with Exodus. We didn't really have much interaction with locals. Also all the accommodation used is Government funded which personally didn't have much character! I am glad I did it and the scenery was spectacular and much nicer to see Namibia on a bike than stuck in a vehicle. Also the kilometres on the itinerary were not what we rode. We rode much less which was disappointing. The cycling is definitely not challenging ie hills, but the gravel can take a bit of getting used too and the heat of course.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/28/2015
Ignacio Arroyo - Traveled, September 2022
Cycle Namibia Wonderful experience of the different landscapes in Namibia Most Inspirational Moment The beautiful loneliness of the countryside where you are cycling Dunes and fat bike in them Animals in freedom in Etosha National Park Thoughts on Group Leader Very good job in all aspects, personal and professional, solving all circumstances of the trip Suggestions Short distances for a cycling trip, moreover we did less distances every day that the specifications written in trip notes. Some accommodations were very basic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/05/2022
Nicola Ward - Traveled, December 2014
Amazing Country Amazing country, fabulous campsites, dramatic scenery and great wildlife. Most Inspirational Moment Too many, I cannot decide between sossousvlei sand dunes, sipping wine at the watering hole watching lions, cycling through the moon landscape, or watching dolphins and seals in a boat trip. Then their were the many beautiful sunsets. Thoughts on Group Leader Great leader, flexed the trip to fit around the weather (scorching sunshine). They worked all hours to fix the bikes as they get a battering and cook us delicious meals. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared there may be some flex on the trip notes to account for the weather and also some early starts. Be prepared for some long transfers, although the early starts meant we slept through some of them. Take in the scenery, racing through it you will miss so much.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/12/2015
Diana Maynard - Traveled, December 2015
Awesome So much about Namibia impressed me: the varied landscapes, the friendliness of the people, the great food, the miles and miles of desert, the cleanliness, and of course the big game. The trip is not difficult cycling and is very easy going, which means you have plenty of time to admire the scenery. Most Inspirational Moment So many moments I couldn't name a single one, but watching the sunrise from the top of Dune 45, many sunsets enjoying drinks and views, and so many breathtaking views. Thoughts on Group Leader I simply can't praise Roger enough - he was incredibly enthusiastic, bursting with energy and information, sociable, and attentive to our needs and problems. Nothing was too much trouble for him, and he was always on hand to fix bikes, answer questions and crack jokes. He dealt with any situations calmly and effectively. His support team of Ronney and Freddey were excellent and always on hand to help, cooking up fantastic food, assisting with the bikes and camp duties. Advice for Potential Travellers In winter the sun is very strong - most of us got burnt at some point through inattention to detail with the sunblock. You also really don't need to pack much on this trip - you stop at plenty of supermarkets to top up with snacks, wine and anything else. A washing line is handy for drying stuff around the tents. Bring plenty of reading material/music to entertain you during the long hours in the bus and evenings. Binoculars for spotting game are really worthwhile. And do take the time to learn a little bit about the animals and country before you go. While you don't have to do anything around the camp if you don't want to, the support team will always appreciate a little bit of help with packing up tents, washing up and so on. And finally, do listen to the guides - they really do know what they're talking about even if you think you know better. Suggestions I didn't know much about Namibia before I went, but I completely fell in love with it. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/27/2015
Satu Hietanen - Traveled, November 2014
Cycling Namibia Overall a great trip. You’ll see a lot of wildlife, on the road side while cycling and then even more on the safari. And I hadn’t appreciated the vastness of Namibia before I went – cycling all morning without a single car passing us really made you appreciate how sparsely populated a country it is. And neither had I appreciated the different forms the desert before… sand, rock, salt etc. Most Inspirational Moment Watching wildlife while sipping on red wine at the floodlit waterhole in Etosha. Sandboarding in Swakopmund. Climbing up the sand dune at dawn. Thoughts on Group Leader Sven was great leader. Very good local knowledge both in terms of culture and wildlife. And his sidekicks Rocky and Jonas were brilliant too in keeping us well fed during the rides and while camping. A special thanks from my partner, who is on a restricted diet (gluten & dairy allergy). He was very well catered for during the whole trip. Advice for Potential Travellers I'm a coffee addict and thanks to reading a previous review I took my own fresh coffee with me (with a travel cafetiere mug). It made all the difference on early morning breakfasts on campsites. Most of the cycling is on bumpy gravel roads so take your own saddle or saddle cover unless you're a seasoned mountain biker used to it. Suggestions It's not the most relaxing trip though as early mornings and long transfers in the heat can make it a bit tiring. And cycling on long dead straight roads did get a bit boring towards the end of week two... But a trip well worth doing though - came back with memories that will stay with me forever.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/06/2014
Anonymous - Traveled, October 2013
CYCLE NAMIBIA Namibia is an exciting country to visit offering lasting memories. Cycling is a great way to see any country, especially in Africa which has different challenges to other parts of the world. It is an easy cycle if you are competent on dirt roads; early starts are necessary to avoid the extreme heat after 10.30am. A big country necessitating some lengthy bus tranfers which can be a bit monotonous. Most Inspirational Moment 'Inspirational' would be too strong a word - the sand dunes are capitivating from the air and ground - even better when climbing or sandboarding. The wildlife is surprisingly plentiful - the waterholes at Etosha attracted almost everything worth seeing and at close quarters - so even my minature camera captured some worthwhile shots..............those with paparazzi lenses had a field day. The Namib desert in all its guises dominates...........a variable landscape and amazing that it can support this quantity of wildlife. Thoughts on Group Leader Swen was excellent as were his support team of Shane and Happy - they did all the tent erection/dismantling, cooking, transfers, bike maintenance - the meals prepared by Shane and Happy were first class for a camping holiday. The bikes were high quality, but the constant blowing sand made gear maintenace difficult - a number needed changing during the 12 days cycling. Advice for Potential Travellers You might want to bring your own saddle, or a gel seat cover..............the dirt roads are pretty bumpy.There is no humidity and it is easy to under-estimate the amount you sweat (you effectively don't while cycling as it dries immediately). I don't drink much water normally, so really struggled to maintain intake - if like me then take some tasty additives to help you drink more. I ate a lot of the fruit provided - but this is no where near enough. The Namibian instant coffee is rank - take your own. Suggestions If you only ever do one sub Saharan African trip, then this cycle trip would be a good one to do - reasonable amount of physical exercise, a lot of animals to see from a two day safari and a cheetah reserve visit in a very safe country with occasional oasis of western style comforts.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/28/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, April 2013
CYCLE NAMIBIA One of the most memorable trips I’ve done – challenging, inspiring and fun! If you love remote places, fascinating scenery and wildlife, and don’t mind early mornings and some tough cycling, then you will love this trip. Most Inspirational Moment Sunrise over the dunes at Soussevlei, seeing a zebra gallop across the road as we cycled along, the amazing night skies, hearing jackals wandering through the camp at night... too many to list Thoughts on Group Leader Sven, Roger & Ronnie were all very organised, patient & worked their socks off to make sure we had an excellent trip. Incredibly knowledgable about Namibia, great cooking skills, supportive during the cycling, and so enthusiastic about showing us their country. Advice for Potential Travellers Ladies, take your own saddle - all the hire bikes have men's saddles. Don't underestimate the difficulty - distances quoted are not huge, but it's a lot more tiring cycling on untarred roads than on tarmac. On the plus side, you will definitely bond with your fellow travellers as you compare notes re sore backsides! May be worth bringing energy bars, if you have favourites - fruit & snacks are supplied regularly during the cycling, but you may want to supplement them. They also provided isotonic mix for adding to water, but again, may not be what you're used to, so if you have a favourite electrolyte powder mix, bring that. Make sure you check what adaptor you need for Namibian electrical sockets (chunky 2 or 3 pin plugs, not part of most "universal" adaptors - same as South Africa) It was unusually hot for April when we went, but just in case, bring a long-sleeved lightweight top you are happy cycling in, and possibly longish shorts. Suggestions Don't be put off - provided you're looking for adventure & not luxury, you'll almost certainly love this trip. Namibia is fascinating, and every day was different.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/17/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, March 2013
CYCLE NAMIBIA Beautiful desert scenery to cycle through, everyday slightly different. Some hard going on the bikes with a lovely meal at the end . Seeing real wild animals at the water holes just yards from you. Camping under starry sky’s and listening to the noises of the night. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing dunes at sunrise and being able to wander around and photograph them . Cycling down Gemsberg pass with its wonderful views. Sitting watching the theatre of action as the animals perform at the water hole in the evenings. Thoughts on Group Leader Swen , Roger and Rob were amazing and worked so well as a team. The camp was run very efficientantly . The food was excellent cooked over the fire on the evenings. Roger was always on hand to help with bike problems or animal tracks. Also all were so knowledgeable about the area and Namibia in General. Advice for Potential Travellers Train hard for tough cycling on loose gravel and sand. The heat and long gravel roads are hard going . Take lots of sun sceen, your own saddle and binoculars if you want to see animals closer when on safari. Suggestions Well worth the tough going as the scenery kept your mind off the gravel! If you enjoy camping but want the luxury of having the tents put up for. Enjoy a challenging cycle ride and want to see wild animals then this is the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/08/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, March 2012
CYCLE NAMIBIA I thought after the first day of cycling I was going to hate this trip, but it got much much better. Being on the ground cycling through the dunes or with a random zebra crashing through a fence and bounding across the road in front of you is an amazing experience. Well worth the sometimes challengin cycling. Most Inspirational Moment The scenery is amazing. You can feel like you are the only person in Namibia as you don't see people or cars for very long periods of time. Cycling gives you a feeling of being imersed in your surroundings that you won't get from sitting in a bus all day. Thoughts on Group Leader Sven, Rodger and Robbie were extremely organised and got us going on time every day down to the minute. The food was beyond expectataions, expecially the fish curry. All 3 were knowledgeable about the landscape, animals and history of namibia. Advice for Potential Travellers Probably best to bring a gel cover for your seat. The roads can be bumpy on your bum. Also a good idea to prepare yourself for riding on sandy gravel roads. A bit tougher than I expected. Well worth it though!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/28/2024
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why book with us?
Best Rate Guarantee
Mytours.Travel makes sure you always have the best available rate
Best Selection
The best operators from around the world
Trusted Payments
Secure payments with Stripe
Expert Advice
Our expert agents will assist you in booking the perfect experience