Plan Your Perfect Namibia Honeymoon 2024/2025: Costs, Itineraries & When to Go
Namibia is the perfect destination to recuperate after an eventful wedding and relax on a romantic honeymoon as a freshly married couple. From immersive safari experiences to exclusive stays, soulful landscapes and remote locations, look no further than Namibia.
In this comprehensive guide to planning a Namibia honeymoon, we will walk you through everything you need to know about getting around, best places to go, what you can expect to spend, the best experiences – and why Namibia is truly one of the best honeymoon destinations out there.
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Namibia offers a rare combination of natural beauty, adventure, and affordability. Read on to learn why we recommend it.
What makes Namibia a good Honeymoon Destination
Untamed remoteness:
it’s an ideal destination for adventurous souls seeking authenticity and privacyAwe-inspiring scenery:
its vast landscapes change from towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei to wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National ParkNatural wonders:
a unique tapestry of renowned national parks, an ancient desert and protected wildlife great for safarisCost-effective options:
Namibia is an affordable honeymoon destination compared to other popular options. Plus: favourable exchange rates will allow you to enjoy luxurious experiences without breaking the bank
Honeymooners can rejoice as Namibia is not only one of the most affordable honeymoon destinations in Africa but also one of the best to see abundant wildlife. You can have a 2-week honeymoon in Namibia for as little as €1000 per person, ranging up to €10.000+ per person, depending on your preferences – the sky's the limit.
Cost breakdown
When you plan your trip, the time of year you choose matters. The high season is from June to October, while the low season is from November to April. The main difference between these seasons is the price – the high season can cost about 25% more than the low season. Take a look at the tables below for more information on how much a trip in each season could cost.
The luxury levels of your stay and the activities chosen also significantly influence how much you end up spending. Accommodation options in Namibia cater to all budgets, from campsites to luxury lodges. A more entry-level or budget honeymoon experience excludes a few exceptional aspects of travelling to Namibia – think hot air balloon rides and secluded stays on private reserves – however, Namibia’s incredible wildlife and breathtaking scenery mean that it is always well worth the trip. Read on to see examples of what you can expect at different price levels.
Rough daily costs per person
Expense types & budget ranges
Namibia caters to different preferences and ensures an extraordinary adventure with the level of comfort and excitement you're after. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect for different expense types and budget ranges.
Accommodation
Entry-level
What you get: Campsites, basic accommodation, self-catering accommodation, closer proximity to other people; usually outside of reserves or national parks.
Mid Range
What you get: More private accommodations, glamping, B&Bs, lodges, inclusions such as amenities and some meals; can be located in more private reserves and national parks.
High-end
What you get: Private accommodation in exclusive and/or remote locations, luxury safari lodges, and complimentary amenities, meals, drinks and activities.
Luxury
What you get: Quality is the name of the game here – completely private accommodation with complimentary activities and amenities including drinks and meals; greater attention to detail in highly sought-after, secluded locations; private chauffeurs, butlers, guides and chefs.
Activities
Entry-level
What you get: Experiences like a self-drive safari in a national park, shared game drives, kayak tours, village visits, hiking, etc.
Mid Range
What you get: Experiences like guided game drives, walking safaris, dune surfing, cultural excursions, kayaking with dolphins and seals, and access to more private areas.
High-end
What you get: Experiences like guided game drives in private reserves, walking safaris, horse riding safaris, photographic safaris and guided multi-day hikes.
Luxury
What you get: Experiences like luxury sleep-outs under the stars, fly-in safaris, private wildlife conservancy experiences, private game drives with world-class guides, hot air balloon rides, private wildlife photographic safaris, walking safaris and private tours in iconic locations like Sossusvlei and Damaraland.
Car rental
Entry-level
What you get: An automatic, small 4x4 like a Suzuki Jimny; smaller tank with less range, and basic comfort.
Mid Range
What you get: 2x4 Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8XS; hybrid design and better environmental impact without sacrificing power; stylish interior with the latest technology.
High-end
What you get: 4x4 Toyota Fortuner; spacious interiors and better features; automatic with increased clearance and traction.
Luxury
What you get: 4x4 Luxury SUV Lexus LX570 or Toyota Land Cruiser 200; automatic, maximum comfort, reliability and durability; cooler box, reverse camera.
Rough costs for a 2-week Namibia honeymoon per person
Inclusions: the costs above include accommodation as well as activities and logistics such as transportation that can be added to the trip templates.
Exclusions: the costs above do not include international flights, travel insurance, visa fees, shopping, souvenirs, tips, fuel, etc.
Note: Different factors like seasons, availability and remoteness affect prices. During the low season, accommodation rates and certain tour prices are lower because it's the off-peak period. On the other hand, the high season has higher prices due to increased demand. Additionally, remote destinations tend to cost more due to factors like transportation logistics and exclusive experiences.
Namibia is a year-round destination and it’s never a bad time to visit. However, there is still a distinct high season and low season, with benefits to each.
Namibia seasonality
High Season
The high season (June to October) falls mostly during Namibia’s dry winter months when days are cool but sunny and rainfall is near non-existent. Travellers can expect temperatures around 20°C.
These conditions are perfect for active travellers as the days never get too hot. Game viewing is at its best during this time, as water sources are scarce and wildlife is more likely to congregate around waterholes. Expect low temperatures at night, especially out in the desert – keep this in mind when packing.
Low Season
November to May is typically seen as the rainy season in Namibia. During these months, temperatures are warmer, with average temperatures of about 30°C. Namibia gets most of its rainfall during these months, however, days are still sunny and mostly dry, as rainfall is quite low in this arid country.
Out in the wilderness, nature puts on a show during these months. Newborn wildlife can be spotted and bird species are abundant with seasonal migrants back home. The cloudy skies also make for dramatic sunsets with the occasional thunderstorm an event in itself.
When to start planning
Travel is booming post-Covid and most of the sought-after places are getting booked well in advance. Due to limited availability, we recommend you start planning 1 year in advance for the high season and 6 months in advance for the low season to secure your dream honeymoon experience.
Visa
Most Western and Commonwealth countries do not require a visa to enter Namibia. However, even if you do, it's a simple process to get one and they can be purchased upon arrival for about €66. Check out the visa requirements here.
Flights
Most international travellers fly into Namibia at Hosea Kutako International Airport, located just outside the capital city of Windhoek. Multiple airlines offer direct flights from major international hubs, ensuring convenient worldwide access for honeymooners from all over.
Getting around
Renting a car allows you to embrace the freedom of the open road and venture off the beaten path at your own pace. However, this might require some 4x4 skills in certain areas. If you prefer a stress-free experience and knowing exactly what’s next, many lodges have transfer options.
Namibia boasts an array of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious lodges in the heart of national parks to rustic campsites under the star-studded African sky, there's something for everyone. What makes some of our favourite stays stand out is the passion for the natural environment, with initiatives ranging from utilising clean energy to conserving wildlife populations. Here are a few of our favourite stays within different budget ranges:
Entry-level/budget
Kunene River Lodge
Situated on a bank along the border with Angola, Kunene River Lodge & Camping offers chalets and a number of camping pitches along the water. In addition to the idyllic setting, facilities, and white-water rafting activities, the lodge also serves as an ideal gateway to exploring the rugged and beautiful Kaokoland area of Namibia.
Mid-range
Ai Aiba Lodge
A stay at Ai Aiba Lodge will be a trip back in time with countless rock painting sites and dramatic sceneries to explore. The ancient rock formations are the eroded remains of a volcanic complex about 130 million years old. Thatch roof chalets welcome guests with tasteful and African-themed decor and the Erongo mountains await with much to explore.
High-end
Camp Kipwe
Nestled between majestic boulders, Camp Kipwe is an earthy collection of suites with sweeping views over Damaraland's Aba Huab valley. This premium camp has airy sand-hued suites and spacious elevated thatched bungalows, all with solar geysers and breathtaking views of the desert scenery. Guests can enjoy the inviting lounge area or the refreshing swimming pool tucked between the rocks.
Luxury
Onguma The Fort
At the intersection of African, Indian and Moroccan culture, Onguma The Fort’s luxury suites cater to travellers looking for a slow-paced journey. With one of the best viewpoints of Etosha’s wilderness, bask in every sunset and sunrise at the magnificent terrace. Watch Etosha’s wildlife at a waterhole from the comfort of your room or up-close at the Onkolo Hide.
Namibia is a playground for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Here's a sneak peek at some of the experiences that await you:
Game drives: Witness the magic of Namibia's wildlife up close. Embark on thrilling game drives in Etosha National Park, where you can spot elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and more. Complete the Big 5 checklist with a visit to the Zambezi Region to see its buffaloes.
Hot air balloon rides: Soar above the vast expanse of the Namib Desert in a hot air balloon, drifting effortlessly as the sun rises and absorbing the panoramic views that few are fortunate enough to witness.
Desert exploration: Venture into the seemingly endless landscape of the Namib, where towering orange dunes offer a surreal backdrop. Make the trek up the side of massive sand dunes, capture dramatic sunset photographs and find the tiny critters that make this inhospitable environment home.
Support conservation initiatives: Get involved in the various programs around the country to support Namibia’s endangered and threatened animal species. Learn more about taking care of the natural environment while having an out-of-the-ordinary experience like tracking free-roaming black rhino in Damaraland.
Hiking: From the Fish River Canyon to the Olive Trail and Waterberg Plateau Park, Namibia offers a range of multi and single-day hikes that pair dramatic desert landscapes with peaceful serenity.
Kayak: Paddle through the calm waters of Walvis Bay, encountering playful dolphins and curious seals along the way. Conclude your adventure with a traditional Namibian braai (barbecue) on a secluded beach.
Mesmerising sunsets: Namibia is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, and with good reason. Whether you're perched atop a sand dune or seated at the edge of a savannah, the Golden Hour is the perfect time to enjoy a peaceful moment with your partner.
Regardless of how long you plan to travel around Namibia, there’s an itinerary just right for you. Here are a few of our fully-customisable trips by length of stay:
3-Week Adventure: Experience Namibia's top highlights with a romantic trip to its most unforgettable destinations. Start with the stunning dunes of Sossusvlei before heading to the coast for a refreshing rest. Explore the massive boulders of Spitzkoppe and travel to mountainous Damaraland, where rhinos roam wild. Then it’s off to Etosha and the Zambezi for an overdose of magnificent wildlife.
2-Week Escapade: Enjoy a lavish stay in Windhoek before journeying to Etosha's ultimate chic safari hideaways. Move onward to Damaraland's desert-scape, where black rhinos roam. Marvel at Spitzkoppe in style, then head to Walvis Bay's flamingo-dotted lagoon before finally witnessing the majesty of Sossusvlei.
1-Week Intimate Retreat: Convenient flights get you to the outer reaches of the country, where luxury desert lodges and rustic safari camps, combined with iconic sights and enthralling experiences, await. Shoot through to Sossusvlei’s immense dunes, then travel from Damaraland’s rhino-roaming landscape to the stunning scenery of remote Kaokoveld.
Namibia is a true sanctuary for the adventurous seeking an unforgettable honeymoon experience. Its remote and untouched landscapes, combined with a wide range of activities and accommodations, make it an ideal choice for couples in search of an extraordinary getaway. Ready to plan your dream honeymoon to Namibia?