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By camping for much of the time, simple camping safaris offer the best of Namibia at a very reasonable cost. If this conjures up unpleasant images of boy scouts under battered canvas in damp British drizzle, take it from us that Namibia is very different. In a country where it's usually much warmer and drier than in the UK, camping is a great way to maximise your time outdoors.
Guide
Each simple camping safari in Namibia is led by a professional guide, who also acts as your driver and helps around camp. Our guides are terribly important to us, so we pick them carefully and train them well. All speak good English; almost all are Namibians. With them, you'll be able to learn a lot about the country and what you see - including much about the flora, fauna and local cultures. They will be able to identify all of the animals, many of the birds, and some of the plants that you see. However, don't expect them to be expert ornithologists or botanists, using Latin names for every species.
Camp assistant
The other vital person on these simple camping safaris is the camp assistant. It's his/her job to do most of the camp chores - so whilst you will help to put up and take down your tent (it's very easy!), you need not worry about cooking or washing up. This leaves you and your guide more time to relax and chat about Namibia and your experiences.
Camping equipment
Good-quality camping equipment is transported in a custom-built trailer. Tents supplied are two-person igloo-style tents, about 2x2 metre, which are easy to assemble.
Each traveller has his/her own camp chair with backrest, and a mattress that is about 5cm thick, covered in thick fabric and very comfortable. Sleeping bags are included on a complimentary basis, but you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer. Pillows are not supplied so we recommend that you bring a small pillow or inflatable travel cushion with you on the camping safari.
Sleeping Bags
Sleeping bags are included on all camping holidays on a complimentary basis. We are happy for you to bring your own sleeping bag if you prefer. We recommend that your sleeping bag covers the '3-4 season' range. Day time temperatures can be hot whilst evenings, especially in winter (June to August), can fall below freezing.
Vehicles
For groups of up to about eight people, these simple camping safaris usually use Toyota Hi-Ace vehicles with a purpose built trailer. For groups up to about twelve people, they usually use a Toyota Dyna. For bigger groups, up to the maximum of fourteen people, they usually use a Toyota Hino. Both the Toyota Dynas and the Toyota Hinos have been purpose-built and adapted specifically for these camping safaris, including the provision of air-cushioned suspension. Both include comfortable, individual bucket seats and pop-top roofs.
Campsites
Almost all of the campsites used on these safaris to Namibia are established rest camps. The facilities generally include ladies and gents' ablution blocks with hot and cold running water and a small kiosk or shop where you can buy drinks. Many of the camps also have a swimming pool. Some of Namibia's more remote campsites are not well lit; while your camp's equipment includes at least one gas lamp, this is turned off once everyone has settled for the night, so it's important that you bring a good torch with you. You'll find this useful within your tent and also if you need to walk around camp after dark.
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