ÉTAPE 1: Cheetahs, Rhinos & Waterberg

Étape 1: Cheetahs, Rhinos & Waterberg

We started our journey in Windhoek, picking up our 4x4 Ford Ranger with a rooftop tent and camping gear from Autovermietung Savanna—stargazing ready! From there, we headed north to Otjiwarongo and the Cheetah Conservation Fund, learning all about cheetah protection. Then it was off to Waterberg Plateau for hikes, rhino tracking, and epic views. We camped at Waterberg Wilderness, spotted giraffes, and soaked in Namibia’s unique wildlife conservation vibe. To wrap up the day, we treated ourselves to a wild luxury stay at Zuri Camp.

days

KM

animals SPOTTED

DAY 1

WINDHOEK TO Otjiwarongo

We kicked off our Namibia adventure in Windhoek, where we picked up our fully equipped 4x4 Ford Ranger from Autovermietung Savanna. These guys really know their stuff—super professional, they walked us through every detail of the car setup, rooftop tent (stargazing-ready, of course!), camping gear, and bush driving tips. Bonus? They set up a 24/7 WhatsApp support group for any questions along the way. Total peace of mind when you’re heading into the wild.

Fridge stocked, fuel topped, and cameras ready, we hit the road heading north to Otjiwarongo. First mission: visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund.

Cheetah Conservation Fund

We were honestly blown away by the Cheetah Conservation Fund. You might expect a touristy animal encounter, but it’s the opposite—this place is a true research and education center, working on real solutions for farmers and wildlife to coexist. From their Livestock Guarding Dog program to cutting-edge cheetah care, the work they do here goes far beyond just saving cheetahs—they’re creating a future where people and predators can live side by side. An absolute must-visit if you are interested in sustainable wildlife protection and of course if you want to snap a great close-up of this amazing beast.

Centre Tour

A guided walking tour of the sanctuary, museum, model farm, and livestock guarding dog program.

60 minutes
From 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
No pre-booking

Cheetah Run

Witness cheetahs running at high speed during their morning exercise, chasing a specially designed lure.

30 minutes
Daily at 8:00 AM
Pre-booking is essential

Cheetah Drive

A guided drive into one of the cheetah enclosures to observe non-releasable cheetahs up close.

60 minutes
From 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM
No pre-booking

DAY 2

waterberg

The Waterberg Plateau rises dramatically from the surrounding savannah, its rust-red sandstone cliffs forming a natural fortress that creates a natural barrier for wildlife, making it an important refuge for endangered species like white and black rhinos. The plateau’s name comes from the springs ("water") that emerge along its base—rare and vital in this arid landscape.

Historically, Waterberg is also known for the Battle of Waterberg (1904), a pivotal conflict during the Herero and Namaqua genocide. German colonial forces fought the Herero people here, leading to a tragic and brutal period in Namibia’s history. Today, memorials and a dedicated hike honor those lost.

After spending one night at the Wilderness campsite, spotting some rhinos and hiking the Dassie trail, we continued our journey north, towards Etosha, and spent the afternoon enjoying our luxury tent and the savannah pool at Zuri Camp.

Waterberg Plateau

In Namibia, national parks are often partially privatized, unlike in Europe. That means you’ll need to decide which part of the park to explore and what type of experiences you’re after. Hiking options are limited unless you go with a guide (i.e., you are not allowed to go to the Plateau by yourself), and most activities, like game drives or rhino tracking, require pre-booking in advance.

Here’s how to choose between the two main options at Waterberg Plateau:

Waterberg Wilderness (ONE Wilderness)

For a conservation-focused, immersive experience, we recommend Waterberg Wilderness and also because we love to hike on our own. Stay in eco-friendly lodges, spacious camp sites and join rhino tracking tours, or explore trails like the Dassie Trail. Giraffes roam freely in the valley, and the restaurant terrace offers stunning views.

5 x self-guided hikes
Rhino tracking (on foot) and drives
Guided hikes to the plateau, sundowner experience
No entrance without overnight

Waterberg Plateau Park (NWR)

Managed by Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), this government-run park offers bush chalets, a campsite, and access to the Waterberg Viewpoint via a short, self-guided trail or you can also book 4x4 game drives. Even if you stay elsewhere, you can visit the park for a small entry fee and enjoy a hike on the plateau.