After a whirlwind trip to Swakopmund to skydive on my birthday, I went back to Windhoek for my next exciting adventure: a six day accommodated tour to Etosha National Park and Sossusvlei with Chameleon Safaris. Given the opportunity to review this reputable safari company run out of Chameleon Backpackers, I jumped at the chance. Not only are these two of the top travel highlights in Namibia, I was looking forward to leaving the planning (and the driving on the left side of the road) up to someone else. When I was in Africa two years ago, I saw a picture of Dead Vlei in the Namib Desert and without even reading about the place, I thought ‘I have to see that’. Sadly, I ran out of time on my last trip so this time, I was really excited to be exploring Namibia. Before I tackle the trip, I wanted to tell you about the accommodations and facilities at Chameleon Backpackers.

There’s a reading lamp on my bed?!
I arrived in Windhoek and booked a night in the dorm at Chameleon Backpackers. I was warmly greeted by a full house, as it was high tourist season in Namibia. The dorm beds came equipped with a reading light (my first I’ve seen on this trip) as well as a huge, lockable storage drawer that I could dump my entire backpack in. Sweet! Rosa from reception showed me around: there is a large, self-catering kitchen with all the pots, pans, and utensils you might need. The backpackers also has a bar, swimming pool, dining room, lounge with a large flatscreen t.v., and an outdoor eating area. Oh yes, and a book exchange which I’m always keen on. I was relieved that I had made the decision to stay there before my tour commenced. When I returned from my safari, I booked two more nights at Chameleon to linger a bit longer in Windhoek.

During my 6 day safari, we spent 1 night back in Windhoek while transiting between Etosha and Sossusvlei. Since the safari was accommodated, and I was sharing with a great girl from California, I had the rare luxury of having a double room. It was really nice, complete with safari themed bedding and African artwork. There was always hot water during my stay, and the informed staff was able to answer my all of my questions about finding my way around town.

You’ll have to check back tomorrow to read about the actual safari, but I definitely recommend staying in Chameleon Backpackers if you’re in Windhoek. I’m confident that it’s the nicest hostel in town.

If you are interested in the Dunes & Wildlife Tour with Chameleon Safaris, click here.
To read about the first part of the tour in Etosha National Park, click here.
To read about the second part of the tour to Sossusvlei, click here.