3 Day Etosha Express

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  Raf
  Written on November 5, 2014

  4.5 - Excellent

  A motivated and enthousiastic guide with a profound knowledge of nature, history and daily life.

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  Christopher
  Written on February 3, 2014

  5.0 - Excellent

  In early September, I went on Chameleon’s accommodated safaris, the 3-Day Etosha Express. Although they have a multitude of offerings, ranging from day trips to 11-day tours, I chose one of their more popular options. I had not been on a multiday, company-arranged safari prior to this one, so I was unsure of what to expect. Since then, however, I have been on several, and have visited many different game reserves. In this write-up, I will focus on Chameleon, but I must caution you: Do not overlook Namibia as a premiere travel destination in Africa. From Fish River Canyon to the Caprivi Strip, this country is loaded with game, breathtaking landscapes, and amazing people. Now for the review: The whole group (about 12) met up at Chameleon Backpackers bright and early at 8am. Prior to the six hour drive, we were briefed by the staff about our route, the guides, and what to expect. The biggest takeaway I received was to drink lots of water. Even though we would be sitting in the truck for entire days, the sun would still get to us. After the briefing, we hopped into the truck. Although the seats are stiff and upright, it is the ideal safari truck. Apart from the time in Zambia when I made a personal seat on top of a Land Cruiser and game-viewed from my perch, this was my favorite game-viewing vehicle. Over 16 people fit in it, so it’s kind of sad if a leopard gets by all of you, as you have 32 eyes scouring the landscape. The windows are huge, and there is a removable roof to boot. The benefit of stiff seats is being able to stand on them and maintain balance easily while roof-viewing. During our entire time on safari, I don’t think anyone had to ask another to move so they could see. After driving for a couple hours (during which we were treated to a detailed history of Namibia by our guide), we made a pit stop to fuel up and grab some snacks. Although the meals are included, the ones eaten during driving time aren’t as filling as the all-you-can-eat buffets. Therefore, it’s recommended you buy snacks. And beer. There’s not much better than relaxing at a watering hole with a cold beer, or drinking with friends at night. They have a cooler in the car so you won’t have to worry about warm beer. If you don’t have a big bottle of water, you can buy one here as well. The next coupe days in Etosha were thrilling, as we saw herds of various animals, and a few of the Big-5. If you’re looking for the elusive cats, this tour might not be the best for you, as most of the time is spent on the usual suspects, including ellies, zebra, and giraffes. To be fair, one truck did have a leopard cross in front of them, and we did see a lion in the distance. No cheetahs though… In the evening, we rested our weary eyes at luxurious accommodations, had fantastic food, and learned more about the rest of the tour group. Inside Etosha, we sat and watched a mother and baby rhino scare off every animal from the watering hole, while a honey badger scavenged the campsite. During our final night, we tasted some game at a top-notch buffet, and then started the drinking games. We may or may not have received a complaint about our noise the next morning, so try to keep it down if you stay up late. When we bid farewell to Etosha, nobody was ready to leave. Even the seasoned game viewers in the truck were impressed with the park. The final day consisted of a lot of driving and a couple of sites (Himba roadside stands, shipwreck on Skeleton Coast). It may have had something to do with our hangovers, but we were a bit disappointed with this day. It seemed like we were driving forever to see mediocre sights, when we all still wanted to be game viewing. Some of the older members of the tour continued the route to Walvis Bay and Windhoek, but most of us remained in Swakopmound, sandboarded (recommended), and relaxed. Overall, I would give Chameleon Tours a 4/5 rating. It probably would’ve received a 4.5 if we stayed in Etosha all 3 days, and the last .5 could be earned by a lower price. As a budget backpacker though, you have the option to take a camping safari instead, and receive 10%* off from Huckleberry Guides on any safari. So technically, that .5 is in your hands. For those who are unsure of which tour operator to join, I can attest to the professionalism of the Chameleon staff. Throughout the booking process with several companies, Chameleon’s was by far and away the easiest and most trusted. You will have absolutely nothing to worry about from the minute you book until after the tour is finished, and peace of mind goes a long way in Africa, especially when you’re spending a decent sum of cash. *For 10% off Chameleon Safaris, download the Huckleberry Guides app, or sign up at www.huckleberryguides.com About the author: Chris Wloch traveled Africa from South Africa to Kenya as a route planner for Huckleberry Guides, reviewing companies along the way. He has been on over 30 game drives and to 7 national parks. Feel free to contact him or Huckleberry Guides at info@huckleberryguides.com.

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