Namibia Restores Self-Drive Access to Deadvlei

CamperDays reports a 33% increase in motorhome road trips in southern Africa in 2026, driven by demand for flexible, nature-focused travel. Namibia and Botswana are the main destinations, with Namibia recording over 1.21 million annual international arrivals and Botswana over 1.18 million. The company is expanding its motorhome fleet in both countries to support the growing self-drive safari trend.

According to CamperDays, a motorhome rental platform, road trips in motorhomes for safaris in Southern Africa increased by 33% in 2026. The growth is driven by demand for flexible, self-drive nature travel, particularly in Namibia and Botswana. Namibia, where 47.5% of tourists visit for leisure, has stabilized international arrivals at over 1.21 million per year. Botswana received over 1.18 million tourists, and its parks, such as the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, require 4x4 vehicles, making self-drive safaris popular.

Traveler Sandra Awodele shared her experience organizing a 10-day mid-luxury trip to Namibia. She used Go2 shuttle service instead of renting a car, stayed at Gondwana lodges, and received an upgrade to the Diplomatic Suite at Hilton Windhoek thanks to Hilton Gold status. Mobile signal was absent for three to four days in the desert, requiring offline maps and flexible arrival planning.

Mercedes-Benz has introduced the Classe V Marco Polo camper van, focusing on comfort and functionality. The model features a compact kitchen with two burners, a dishwasher, and a fridge, along with two sleeping areas with ergonomic mattresses. It includes AIRMATIC air suspension, an MBUX system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a suite of safety assistants. The starting price is €30,260.

South Africa's Moremi Trailers showcased a camper built on a Mahindra S6 4×4 single-cab at the kykNET Outdoor Expo in Windhoek. According to the builder, fuel consumption averages 8.5 km/l, up to 50% less than comparable models from better-known brands. The unit includes a double bed, air conditioning, a full kitchen with fridge, and a roof-mounted solar panel.

Tour operator TMC Reisen has launched an expanded program for 4x4 campervan tours through Namibia. The program offers rental of specially equipped off-road vehicles with expedition gear, roof tents, and custom route maps. The company provides technical briefings and 24/7 support for self-drive trips to remote areas of the country.