Namibia Air safari - Trip of a lifetime

I have to say, safari is possibly my favourite holiday pastime, perhaps somewhat because it's a treat, but also chances are few and far between, so when a chance came my way through work, it was too good an opportunity to resist.

8 nights, 5 locations, thousands of miles covered, all in a private jet. I appreciate these chances are limited, but if you have a safari trip on your bucket list, I'd urge you check this out, self drive or by air, and with our trusted partners based in Namibia, let me guide you on how to enjoy the diversity of this incredible African gem, deemed the safest country in its continent.

We took our flight from Windhoek, North to Okinjima Nature reserve to see the Afrikaat Nature reserve, see rescued Cheetahs, but also track leopards, and spot endless amounts of game. We dined in the traditional outdoor Boma and enjoyed fabulous hospitality at this rustic but very special location.

Next we moved on to Etosha Heights, the most memorable traditional welcome here extended throughout our stay with African dancing and singing from the Etosha 'family. This one is all inclusive and a very special place to head out on foot, guide and safety measures in tow (this is nature after all), and enjoy sundowners. From there to Damaraland, our first stop as we left the bush and headed to the desert - home of the desert elephant and accommodation amidst red rock, the landscape is a stark contrast to what we'd experienced so far. We were treated to watching a family of elephants enjoying a leisurely evening stroll, stopping to dine along the way, an hour passed in what seemed like minutes, we were so mesmerised, we failed to spot the female elephant from another direction, and take our breath away as she brushed past our vehicle.

Our next stop was civilisation, by the beach, in Swakopmund. A small town with a heavy German influence and relaxed coastal vibe. From here, you can visit the Skeleton Coast and the incredible sand dunes for a spot of dune bashing, this is a must do! You can also head out whale watching and seal spotting from here too, or sky dive, if you are an adrenaline junkie who prefers to see it all from the air.

Last but not least to Soussevlei. No visit to Namibia is complete without seeing the red sand dunes, and climbing Big Daddy - the largest in Africa. I'm afraid of heights but I took on the challenge and would have turned around and done it all again.

A luxury desert retreat to top it all off and in reality I had just glimpses of this country for sure, but they are etched in my memory for a lifetime.