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Magnificent Namibia | 21-Day Small Group Lodge Tour | September 2024
We participated in the small group tour “Magnificent Namibia” from 22.09. to 12.10.2024, along with five couples and the guide, Aaron. The trip was fantastic, living up to its name with the variety of destinations, and Aaron was the best guide and driver one could wish for.
The vehicle we travelled in—a brand-new 11-seater Mercedes Sprinter—was very comfortable (with great seats, plenty of legroom, and space for our backpacks, etc.), well-equipped, and provided enough room for our luggage. Aaron is a careful, excellent driver, and we always felt safe with him. During the drives, he scheduled sufficient breaks, making even the long journeys on (mostly) gravel roads manageable. Whenever there was something interesting to see or explain, he made stops—also for taking pictures—and was always responsive to our wishes. His extensive knowledge of flora and fauna was impressive. He also kept us well-informed about the history, current events, and political affairs in Namibia, answering our many questions, including those about the everyday life of the Namibian people.
Additionally, he handled all the organizational matters during the tour (like bringing luggage to and from the rooms, arranging breakfast times, securing a private table for the group, reserving tables at restaurants, booking optional excursions, etc.), allowing us to fully relax and enjoy the trip. Every evening, he would prepare us for the next day by going over the program, breakfast, and departure times and providing us with advice on the next day’s attire (sturdy shoes, sun hats, etc.), which always proved to be the right recommendations.
Aaron was always friendly, competent, and humorous, even taking care of our personal needs (where to get a SIM card, the best souvenirs, or medication if needed). The accommodations throughout the trip were all good to excellent, and the food was consistently outstanding—mostly three-course meals or buffets, including starters and desserts. The selected destinations and tours—especially the walk with the San people, the visit to the Damara Living Museum, etc.—gave us a deep understanding of the country. Highlights included the Kalahari, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund (definitely book the optional catamaran trip, where we even saw dolphins, and pelicans and seals visited us on the boat), the Fish River Canyon, and of course, the many animals, especially in Etosha National Park. A thoroughly successful trip!
In conclusion, we can only say that this journey was a truly wonderful experience that will remain with us in the best of memories. Aaron, in particular, played a huge part in this, and we would like to express our sincere thanks to him.
