NAMIBIA

ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

Etosha is Namibia’s largest and most famous nature reserve. As we travel toward the end of the dry season, the artificial waterholes will be extremely popular with wildlife. In the park, it’s possible to see herds of springbok, zebra, and oryx. Elephants, giraffes, and rhinos, along with many other species, are also common in the area. Of “The Big Five” (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and buffalo), only the buffalo is absent here, as it’s too dry for them. We will visit several waterholes at different times of the day to maximize our chances of seeing as many animals as possible.

NAMIB NAUKLUFT NATIONAL PARK

KOLMANSKOP

In 1908, German railway workers discovered the first diamond in the area, quickly revealing the rich deposits in the ground. This attracted miners, and soon the region was annexed by the Germans. The first mine owners amassed enormous fortunes, leading to the construction of the town of Kolmanskop. The town was modeled after a small German town and had every conceivable amenity, including a hospital, a school, a theater, a bowling alley, an ice factory, the first X-ray machine in the Southern Hemisphere, and Africa’s first tram. After World War I, Kolmanskop began to lose its status as a diamond town, and many people moved south in search of new diamond deposits. By 1954, the town was completely abandoned. Today, the desert is reclaiming the town, with most of the buildings now filled with sand, giving the place an eerie atmosphere. Visits with special permission at sunrise and sunset offer fantastic opportunities to photograph the abandoned, sand-filled houses and the surrounding desert landscape.

QUIVER TREE FOREST & GIANT´S PLAYGROUND

In southern Namibia, on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, you’ll find one of the country’s two major areas of quivertrees, also known as kokerboom trees. The quivertree, or “Kokerboom” in Afrikaans, is one of the most unique plants in Namibia’s arid landscape. Despite its name, it is actually a type of Aloe plant with forked branches reaching skyward. These plants can grow up to nine meters tall and have a trunk diameter of up to one meter. While they usually stand alone, here they form a dense group that gives the impression of a forest. The San people used the hollow branches to store their arrows, which gave the trees their name, “quivertrees.” These trees offer spectacular photo opportunities both in daylight and at sunset. Nearby is also Giant’s Playground, an area filled with enormous, square-shaped boulders that were formed millions of years ago. This area truly looks like a place where giants have played with large building blocks, creating a unique and fascinating landscape scene.

HALIFAX ISLAND & DIAZ POINT

Halifax Island is a breeding ground for African penguins. The boat will dock here, allowing you to sit and observe, giving you plenty of time to watch and photograph the penguins as they waddle across the rocks and dive through the waves. During the boat trip to Halifax Island, it’s not uncommon to be accompanied by Heaviside’s dolphins, which enjoy surfing on the boat’s waves. These small, chubby dolphins have a very limited range and are found only off the west coast of South Africa and Namibia, making each encounter a special experience. At Diaz Point, with its famous lighthouse, the Portuguese explorer Bartholomeu Dias landed in 1487. Here, you can find a large colony of Cape fur seals, often referred to as the “dogs of the sea” due to their curious and playful nature.

ITINEARY  

2-12 APRIL 2025

We recommend arriving a day earlier at the destination in case of any flight delays and to allow yourself some relaxation after the long journey. For this reason, we have reserved a number of rooms at the first-class Windhoek Country Club Resort.

Throughout the trip, Roger Brendhagen will be available for photo tips as well as help in image editing and in image criticism. The exact times for this are decided based on weather. 

DAY 1, (APRIL 2) – ARRIVAL IN NAMIBIA
Early in the morning, we will gather at Windhoek International Airport, where you will be welcomed by photographer Roger Brendhagen and a host from Zoom Photo Tours. After loading our luggage into our Toyota Land Cruisers and picking up guests who arrived the day before, we will set off toward Keetmanshoop. Keetmanshoop is a modern small town with around 22,000 residents, located in southern Namibia. During the journey, we will stop for lunch and take photo breaks if we encounter something interesting to capture.

Upon arrival at our hotel, Quivertree Forest Rest Camp, we will check in and take some time to rest or perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool. After dinner, we will head to Quivertree Forest for evening photography. This enchanting place is known for its unusual and fascinating quiver trees. The trees, which can grow up to nine meters tall, are named after the indigenous San people, who used the hollow branches as quivers for their arrows. The quiver trees have a distinctive silhouette with thick trunks covered in shimmering, scaly bark. Hopefully, the night will be clear so we can capture the majestic trees against a backdrop of the sparkling starry sky, a magical experience offering many excellent photo opportunities. (L, D)

DAY 2, (APRIL 3) – QUIVERTREE FOREST & GIANT’S PLAYGROUND
We will start early in the morning and head back to Quivertree Forest to photograph the fascinating trees in a different light. We also hope to capture some images of the small, charming rock hyraxes that move swiftly between the stones. These animals are related to elephants but are much smaller and look like a cross between rabbits and guinea pigs. After our visit to the forest, we will continue to Giant’s Playground to explore the unique rock formations.

Next, we will head toward Lüderitz, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. During the journey, we will pause to photograph the famous wild horses, believed to be descended from the horses brought here by the Germans in the early 1900s. We will also visit Grasplatz station, an abandoned railway station in the desert along the now-defunct railway line between Aus and Lüderitz. It was here that railway worker Zacharias Lewala discovered the first diamond in southwestern Africa in 1908.

Upon arrival in Lüderitz, we will check in at Lüderitz Nest Hotel, where we will stay for two nights. In the evening, we will have dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. (B, L, D)

DAY 3, (APRIL 4) – HALIFAX ISLAND & DIAZ POINT
After an early breakfast, we will head to Halifax Island, a small rocky island known for its large population of African penguins. For photographers, Halifax Island offers a unique opportunity to capture penguins in their natural environment. We will reach Halifax Island by catamaran, and along the way, you can expect to photograph playful Heaviside dolphins, which often surf on the boat’s waves. This small island has an interesting history and was under British rule from 1866. The island became of interest due to the thick layers of guano (penguin excrement) that covered it. These deposits, which in some places were up to 35 meters high, were a valuable commodity used as fertilizer. The British extracted guano from the island and hunted seals until 1949.

Next, we will continue to Diaz Point, known for its rugged natural beauty. This promontory is marked by high cliffs that dramatically meet the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a place where the wind often blows strongly, and the sea is wild and unpredictable, creating a grand and unforgettable atmosphere. One of the main attractions at Diaz Point is the iconic lighthouse, which stands as a guardian over the treacherous waters. The lighthouse, built in the early 1900s, has been a lifeline for sailors navigating this perilous coast. For photographers, Diaz Point offers a wealth of spectacular subjects, from the sweeping views of the open sea to the nearby cliffs and wildlife. The area is also an important site for Cape fur seals, which can often be seen sunbathing on the rocks or swimming in the foaming water. These seals, along with the dramatic coastline and the historic lighthouse, make Diaz Point an excellent location for photography. (B, L, D)

DAY 4, (APRIL 5) – THE GHOST TOWN OF KOLMANSKOP
With special permission to enter early in the morning, we will head to the ghost town of Kolmanskop. The town has a rich and exciting history dating back to the early 1900s when a railway worker, Zacharias Lewala, found a diamond in the sand. This discovery led to an intense diamond rush, and the town quickly flourished as a center for diamond mining. At its peak, Kolmanskop was a prosperous and modern town with luxurious houses, a hospital, a school, a theater, a casino, and even a tram. After a few decades, the diamond deposits began to dwindle, and during the 1930s, the town started to be abandoned. By the 1950s, most of the inhabitants had left Kolmanskop, leaving the town to its fate. Today, Kolmanskop is a ghost town, where the desert winds and sand dunes have taken over the former buildings. The abandoned houses are filled with sand, and the surreal landscape offers unique photo opportunities. The decayed structures, the interiors covered in sand, and the stark desert landscape create a strange and beautiful contrast.

We will then continue toward Sossusvlei, where we will check in at Desert Quiver Camp, surrounded by mountains and sand dunes. We will stay here for two nights, making it an excellent base for exploring the area. Dinner will be at the hotel. (B, L, D)

DAY 5, (APRIL 6) – SOSSUSVLEI
Early in the morning, we will head to Sossusvlei and its most famous sand dunes. Through a long valley flanked by large dunes, we will reach the largest dune, Big Daddy, to catch the sun’s rays as early as possible. Those who wish can hike up Big Daddy to get a panoramic view of the breathtaking landscape with several large sand dunes all around. Below Big Daddy lies Deadvlei, a dried-up lakebed with famous old trees that stand as silhouettes against the dunes.

The photo opportunities are endless, and we aim to be on-site as early as possible since the heat later in the day can become unbearable. On the way back to the hotel, we will stop at several other dunes to capture more stunning photographs. Dune 45 is one of the most photographed dunes and is known for its distinctive shape. Here, too, those who wish can hike up the dune for a better view of the landscape.

In the afternoon, there will be time for photo editing, some rest, or perhaps a swim in the hotel’s pool before the communal dinner. After dark, there will be an opportunity to practice night photography, where you can capture the Milky Way over the fantastic landscape. (B, L, D)

DAY 6, (APRIL 7) – SOSSUSVLEI TO SWAKOPMUND
Today’s journey will take us to Swakopmund. Along the way, we will stop at Solitaire, a small settlement in the desert that resembles a town from an old Western movie. Here, you will find several old rusty car wrecks scattered around, providing inspiration for fantastic photos. Solitaire is also famous for its apple pies, which we will, of course, try.

During the day, we will make several stops to photograph the stunning natural scenery, including the spectacular Gaub and Kuiseb Passes. These passes offer impressive rock formations and deep valleys that invite creative photography.

As we pass the port town of Walvis Bay, we will stop to photograph the colorful flamingos that nest along the shoreline in Flamingo Lagoon. This shallow lagoon is home to thousands of flamingos. These elegant birds, with their long necks and light pink plumage, create a spectacular sight as they wade in the water or fly over the lagoon. Other bird species, such as pelicans and sandpipers, can also be found here, offering excellent photo opportunities.

From here, it is only 35 km to Swakopmund. This idyllic little coastal town has a special charm. Small houses and old buildings mixed with German colonial heritage mean you can find a typical German beer garden here and streets named Bismarckstrasse. We will check in at Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre, and the evening will be free for your activities with the opportunity to explore Swakopmund. (B, L)

DAY 7, (APRIL  8) – CAPE CROSS
Today, we will continue our journey along the coast toward Cape Cross. The first photo stop of the day will be at the large fishing vessel Zeila, which ran aground in 2008 during the early morning hours near “Die Walle,” a popular fishing spot about 14 km south of Henties Bay. The fishing trawler was towed to Walvis Bay and then sold as scrap to an Indian company. However, the ship ran aground after breaking loose from its towline as it left Walvis Bay on its way to India.

We will then continue to the seal reserve at Cape Cross, home to one of the world’s largest colonies of Cape fur seals. Here, you will have the opportunity to photograph and observe these fascinating animals up close. Capture images of them diving for food, feeding their young, squabbling with each other, splashing around, or simply lounging on the rocks in the sun. The reserve also has a good number of brown hyenas and jackals that have adapted to life near the seals and patrol the colony in search of dead or injured animals.

We will then check in at Cape Cross Lodge, located right by the sea. After a late lunch, we will work on photo editing and review each other’s images. (B, L, D)

DAY 8, (APRIL 9) – CAPE CROSS TO ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, we will continue our journey north to Etosha National Park. Along the way, we will visit a village where we will meet the traditional Himba people. The Himba are a nomadic tribe that moves within the area depending on the season and the availability of food for their livestock. They primarily make a living by raising sheep and goats. This people often retain many of their old customs and traditions. They apply a mixture of fat and ochre to their bodies to protect themselves from the sun’s strong rays. The women are particularly distinguished by their beautiful hairstyles, shaped with clay in the typical rust-red color.

During the journey, we will also make a photo stop at the Petrified Forest. This “petrified forest” consists of fossilized tree trunks believed to be over 280 million years old, dating back to the Permian period. The trees, which once grew in a humid and lush environment, were transported here by large floods and sedimented over time. Through a slow process of mineralization, the organic material of the trees has been replaced with silica, resulting in them being turned into stone. This inspires creative photography.

Late in the afternoon, we will arrive at Etosha National Park, where we will check in at Okaukuejo Camp for three nights. Here, you will have the opportunity to rest or perhaps take a dip in the pool. Below the hotel terrace lies one of Etosha’s best and most visited waterholes, which is also illuminated at night. Rhinos, elephants, giraffes, and lions often come here to drink. Our first evening in Etosha will be spent photographing at the waterhole. If there is a beautiful sunset, there is an opportunity for great photos of the animals against the setting sun. (B, L, D)

DAY 9-10, (APRIL 10-11) – ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK
Now, safaris in Namibia’s largest and most famous national park are on the program, with both morning and afternoon safaris. Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s largest national parks and differs from the parks in East Africa by often waiting at waterholes, where animals gather to drink. It is a majestic sight when large herds of elephants slowly come walking toward the waterhole. You can sit for hours, fascinated by how the animals come to quench their thirst.

If we are lucky, we may also see giraffes, lions, and the black rhinoceros at the waterholes. In Etosha, you will find four of the “Big Five” – lion, leopard, elephant, and rhinoceros. The buffalo is not present here, as the area is too dry for these large ruminants. We may also see the small Damara dik-dik, the park’s smallest antelope, as well as herds of elephants, zebras, and the rare black-faced impala.

Etosha offers a unique safari experience where you can see the animals in their natural environment, often up close at the vital waterholes, providing memorable moments to document with your camera.

On the last evening, we will have a joint farewell dinner at our camp. During this, Roger will announce the best photo of the trip, which will automatically advance to the final in the competition “Photo of the Year 2025.” (B, L, D)

DAY 11, (APRIL 12) – MORNING SAFARI AND DEPARTURE
The last safari of the trip offers one last chance to capture that special photo that may have eluded you so far. After breakfast and checkout, we will head out on one last tour in Etosha National Park. Our jeeps will take us through the park, where we will search for the magnificent animals one last time – perhaps we will see lions on the hunt, elephants majestically walking, or giraffes grazing from the treetops.

After the safari, we will head to the nearby airport for the flight to Windhoek. During the journey, we will have time to reflect on the incredible experiences we have had and the memories we have created together. Upon arrival in Windhoek, it will be time to say goodbye to your new photo friends and prepare for the journey home. With your camera full of fantastic photos and your heart filled with unforgettable moments, we conclude this adventure in Namibia. (B)

PHOTOGRAPHER

ROGER BRENDHAGEN – Wildlife photographer 

After working as a journalist for five years, Roger Brendhagen spent the past 20 years working as a full-time photographer. With over three hundred travel days a year Roger has the entire world as his workplace, and he has taken photos everywhere from Mongolia to India and Africa.

For 16 years he has been one of Nikon’s ambassadors and is often hired as a lecturer. Roger is chairperson of Norske Naturfotografer / NN.

He is also highly appreciated for his workshops and photo expeditions. Roger has led photo expeditions around the world, including to Sri Lanka, Mongolia, and India. 

www.brendhagen.com

QUIVERTREE FOREST CAMP ***+

CAPE CROSS LODGE***+

DESERT QUIVER CAMP***+

SWAKOPMUND HOTEL*****

PRICE, FACTS & BOOKINGS 

Price per person: £ 4 695 or USD 5 950



Price includes:

• All transportation during the trip in Toyota Land Cruisers.
• Domestic flight from Etosha National Park to Windhoek.
• Accommodation in double rooms at hotels as per the itinerary.
• Meals as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner).
• Park fees.
• All entrance fees.
• Participation of Roger Brendhagen throughout the trip.
• Workshops by Roger Brendhagen during the trip.
• A travel host from Zoom Photo Tours.
• Participation of local English-speaking guides.
• Hotel and other local taxes and fees.
• Travel documents and practical travel information.

Price does not include:

• Flights to Windhoek, Namibia.
• Single room supplement: £ 385 or USD 490
• Costs such as drinks with meals and phone calls, etc.
• Tips for local guides, approximately 10 USD/day.
• Cancellation protection, travel insurance. See “Good to Know.”

ADDITONAL NIGHT BEFORE THE TRIP

Per person in a double room: £ 110 or USD 135

Single room supplement: £ 60 or USD 75

Price includes:

• Transfer to the hotel.
• One night at Windhoek Country Club Resort in a double room****
• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Hotel and other local taxes and fee.

TRANSPORTATION 

Flights to Windhoek, Namibia are to be arranged independently. Please ensure that you arrive in Windhoek no later than 08:00 and do not book your return flight earlier than 18:00.

If you require assistance with booking international flights, please indicate this when making your reservation on the booking page, contact us by phone at +46 470 466 40, or email us at info@zoomphototours.com.

FACTS 

Target audience: Photographers interested in developing their skills in landscape and wildlife photography.

Min/Max participants: 8/12.

Exchange rate: NAD 0.55 (as of 21/7 2024).

Additional information: For more details about Zoom Photo Tours, terms of service, etc., please visit our website under “Other Information.”

PHOTO GEAR

• Your digital camera.
• Telephoto lens, preferably up to 500 mm.
• 70-200 mm lens.
• Wide-angle lens, such as 24-70 mm.
• A monopod or tripod.
• A computer with Photoshop or Lightroom.
• Extra batteries, chargers, etc.

BOOKING 

You can book this trip by clicking the button below, calling us at +46 470-466 40, or emailing us at info@zoomphototours.com