Safari in Namibia for less

Going on safari can mean forking out huge amounts to reach some of the most remote and beautiful places in the world.

However, the Wild about Africa travel company offers some fantastic safari holidays that are great value.

The 17-day Marula Safari combines the best of Namibia’s northern wildlife with the spectacularly scenic south of the country.

The trip is a grand overview of the country during which you can visit several communities, both traditional and modern, and a tremendous variety of contrasting environments.

You will be able to visit the great canyons of the Fish River and the saltpans of Etosha, and see tens of thousands of Cape Fur seals at Cape Cross in a trip that takes in an array of Namibia’s scenery and wildlife.

The holiday starts at Windhoek, where you can relax by the pool before the Safari begins, and moves onto Okahandja the next day, which has Namibia’s largest crafts market.

Also in Okonjima is the AfriCat Foundation, where you spend your afternoon learning about the work they do in conserving Namibia’s big cats. Most visits to the foundation are a great opportunity to get very close the magnificent predators.

Next on the itinerary is Etosha National Park, which contains Lake Otjikoto, Namibia’s largest natural lake and the huge, silvery expanse of Etosha Pan, where spotting big game and variety of local bird species is easy.

In the evenings you can watch black rhinos, elephants and lions among other species coming to drink at the camp's floodlit waterhole.

The safari also takes a trip to an authentic Himba village. Like East Africa’s Maasai, the Himba have a proud culture they have successfully retained in the face of the modern world.

Many adhere to their traditional dress and customs, living in ways that have changed little over the centuries. Each aspect of their lives has a meaning, from how they set up their kraal to honour their ancestors, to the way they wear their hair.

You spend the afternoon with the people of the village, where a local guide sensitively introduces you to the villagers, helping you to learn about Himba life and culture. You have time not only to watch, but also to get involved in whatever they are doing.

Other highlights of the trip include a spectacular drive into the mountainous Kaokoveld and through the picturesque Damaraland, a visit to Brandberg, the country's highest mountain, and a trip to see Namibia's famous 20,000 year old 'White Lady' mountainside rock painting in Swakopmund.

Prices, including scheduled international flights with Air Namibia from London Gatwick, start from £1,485 per person in August. The Marula Safari includes most meals, accommodation, camping equipment, park fees, transport, the services of a trained guide and camp assistant. For more information see www.wildaboutafrica.com.