Dunes
Landscapes & Wildlife of Namibia
June 30 – July 15, 2008

THE SANDY SHORES

Dunes form through the Aeolian process, wherein winds erode, transport, and deposit materials to reshape the land, pushing coastal sands into ever-increasing mounds. When one thinks of dunes, the first place most likely to come to mind is the Sahara Desert in northern Africa. The world’s most impressive sand dunes, however, lie at the other end of the continent.
     Namibia is situated in the southwestern corner of Africa. It is a country shaped by the desolate Namib Desert, said to be the oldest in the world with the highest dunes to be found anywhere on the planet. Some dunes reach heights of 1,100 feet or more, nearly as tall as New York City’s Empire State Building. There is an astonishing sense of space here, because the country is the one of the most sparsely populated on the continent, and vistas stretch off into the horizon unimpeded by human influence.
     Dune habitats provide niches for highly specialized plants and animals, including numerous rare and endangered species. A number of unusual species of plants and animals are found only in this desert. Essentially a desert country, Namibia does offer contrasting landscapes. Moving north from the coastal desert, the land becomes a central plateau, with thorn bush savannah and rugged mountains rising abruptly from the plains.
     In the north of the country, the Etosha National Park is the third largest in Africa. Covering an area of 8,596 square miles, it is home to 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish. It owes its unique landscape to the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow salt lake depression that encompasses nearly 25% of the park. The word Etosha, in fact, means “great white place.”
     Etosha has some of the most spectacular game viewing on the continent. Visitors can expect to see many buck species, elephant, giraffe, rhino and lions. More fortunate visitors will see leopard and cheetah. There is a network of roads linking the park’s three campsites and subsidiary roads lead to various waterholes.
     Namibia was under German rule in the 19th century (the German influence can still be seen in the cities’ architecture). South Africa occupied the country during World War I, and set up a long-term protectorate relationship that did not end until Namibia achieved total independence in 1990.
     Today Namibia is one of the most beautiful and peaceful countries on the African continent, and has become a haven for celebrities hoping to escape the glare of publicity. Namibia’s climate, with clear skies and sunshine throughout the year, together with its wealth of unspoilt wilderness areas and few crowds makes it an expansive playground unlike any other. It is truly a sparkling gem for those explorers in search of pure wilderness and abundant wildlife.

ITINERARY

Monday, June 30, 2008
Departure from the U.S.

Depart your home city today on an overnight flight bound for Windhoek, Namibia. For those searching online for the best routing, use “WDH” as the airport code for Windhoek. Because there are no direct flights from the U.S., you will most likely connect through a European city. The typical flight itinerary sees passengers arriving in Windhoek on the second day after they leave the United States.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Travel Day

Your overnight flight lands in Europe today. Most onward flights do not depart until late in the evening, necessitating a layover of several hours. Your connecting flight should arrive in Windhoek sometime tomorrow. If you cannot make it there before mid-afternoon on July 2, we recommend you leave home on June 29th in order to arrive late today and be able to rest and recover from jet lag. We will be happy to make the necessary hotel arrangements for anyone who chooses to arrive in Windhoek today.

Wednesday, July 2, 3008
Arrival in Namibia

Tour services commence with your arrival today in Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. This afternoon the group partakes of a tour of the city center, including the Christuskirche, Tintenpalast and Alte Feste museum. We set aside time for changing money and any necessary shopping. Toto Tours hosts a Welcome Dinner at Joe’s Beerhouse, a famous local eatery serving up a typical Namibian feast! Overnight in Windhoek.     (Dinner included)

Thursday, July 3, 2008
Namib Desert

After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and board our air conditioned vehicle bound for the southern region via the towns of Rehoboth, Kalkrand and Mariental, and then west via Maltahohem to the heart of the Namib Desert. We make a stop for lunch (on your own) before arriving at our lodge, located on the edge of the vast Sossusvlei dune sea. Here we participate in the tradition of a sunset cocktail, followed by dinner. Overnight at Sossusvlei.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Friday, July 4, 2008
Sossusvlei

Today we rise early in order to position ourselves among some of the highest dunes in the world before sunrise. We explore the Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei dunes, looking out for desert life such as the oryx antelope, side-winding adder, barking gecko and the magical fruit of the Namib, the Nara melon.
     We return to our lodge via the Sesriem Canyon, with snacks and cold drink stops en route. Once back at the lodge, the afternoon is at leisure to relax by the pool. After a morning of play among the dunes, it will help to get the sand out of all our cracks and crevices. Optional adventures, such as a horseback ride, can also be arranged. Overnight at Sossusvlei.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Saturday, July 5, 2008
Swakopmund

Travel via the tiny desert settlement of Solitaire, then over the awesome Kuiseb Mountain Pass, and across the flat, utterly desolate Namib coastal plain to Namibia’s premier Atlantic resort of Swakopmund. Swakopmund is like a piece of 19th century Imperial Germany picked up and dumped on the edge of the desert! With weird architecture, German bakeries and bookshops, a wonderful lighthouse and museum, Swakopmund is a great place for us to immerse ourselves in colonial history. Our lodge is located on an Atlantic coast beach, with views of the ocean and out to the lighthouse. The town offers many fine restaurants from which to choose for your dinner tonight, with seafood and German cuisine being featured. Overnight in Swakopmund.     (Breakfast)

Sunday, July 6, 2008
Free Day

Today is completely at leisure to allow time to explore this fascinating town and surrounding area on foot (including the neighboring port of Walvis Bay). There are many adventure options available for adrenaline junkies, such as sand-boarding, paragliding, hot air ballooning, kayaking, a day-tour into the Namib Desert, dune biking, etc. Overnight in Swakopmund.     (Breakfast)

Monday, July 7, 2008
Damaraland

After breakfast, we depart Swakopmund and travel north via the towns of Omaruru and Kalkveld to Outjo, center of the huge northern cattle-farming district. Here we head west into the vast open spaces of the Damaraland province. Our beautiful lodge is located on the slopes of the famous Vingerklip, and we enjoy free time this afternoon to explore this stunning rock formation on foot. Overnight at Vingerklip.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Twyfelfontein

We spend the day exploring some of the fascinating art / archaeological / geological spots in the area, including the World Heritage Site at Twyfelfontein (some of the finest San rock engravings in southern Africa) and the Burnt Mountain and Organ Pipes rock formations. We return to our lodge in late afternoon, and the evening is free. Overnight at Vingerklip.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Etosha National Park / Okaukuejo Restcamp

This morning we travel via Outjo, and then north to the Etosha National Park, Namibia’s most famous game reserve. An early afternoon arrival gives us plenty of time enjoy the pool at our en suite bungalow accommodations within the Park. This camp’s most popular feature is a game-viewing platform located next to a waterhole. It is a particularly rewarding spot, especially at night, when rhino and elephant come to drink. Partake of your first African “braaivleis” (barbecue) tonight, under the incredible Namibian night sky, perhaps accompanied by the distant roars of lions or howls of hyenas! Overnight in Etosha.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Thursday, July 10, 2008
Etosha National Park / Fort Namutoni Restcamp

After breakfast, we check out of the Okaukuejo Camp and take a slow drive east through the park, viewing wildlife en route. The park is home to four of the “Big Five”—rhino, elephant, lion and leopard—as well as zebra, giraffe, cheetah and any number of antelope species, including the tiniest antelope of them all, the Damara Dikdik.
     We arrive at the Fort Namutoni Restcamp, built in and around the original German military fort, and check into our en suite bungalows. The afternoon is free to relax at the pool or at the water-hole. As dusk approaches, we head out on an evening game drive. We return to the restcamp for dinner (not included) at the restaurant and overnight.     (Breakfast)

Friday, July 11, 2008
Etosha National Park / Fort Namutoni Restcamp

Today, we arise before dawn to take an early morning game drive, at a time when the animals are most active. We return to the restcamp for breakfast, and the morning and afternoon are free to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness. In late afternoon, we head out again on another evening game drive as the animals revive themselves after the sluggishness of the day. Overnight at the restcamp with another braaivleis for dinner.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Saturday, July 12, 2008
Otjiwarongo

This morning we exit the Park and travel via the subterranean Lake Otjikoto and the mining town of Tsumeb to our next lodge, located near the town of Otjiwarongo, home to the internationally renowned Africat Foundation. After checking in at our decadently luxurious Bush Camp, we have time for lunch and relaxation before setting out on an afternoon game drive in quest of the big African cats—lion, leopard and cheetah. Tonight enjoy dinner under the stars. Overnight at the Bush Camp.     (All Meals)

Sunday, July 13, 2008
Kalahari Desert

After an early morning game drive and hearty bush breakfast, we travel via Okahandja, with a stop for craft and curio shopping en route, to Windhoek. We continue east into the Kalahari Desert to the spectacular Eningu Clay House for our final night in the country – a last chance to hear the absolute silence of the desert, and see stars brighter than anywhere else in the world! Tonight, we will enjoy our Farewell Dinner surrounded by serene wilderness. Overnight in the Desert at the Eningu Clay House.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Monday, July 14, 2008
Farewell to Namibia

The day is at leisure until checkout time and our group transfer to Windhoek International Airport for homebound flights. Book your flight to depart Windhoek at any convenient time today. Not too early, please, as we will be scheduling the transfer to the airport so that everyone can go together. We will be happy to assist with your accommodation needs if you would like to extend your stay in Windhoek.     (Breakfast)

Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Arrival in U.S.

Most flight itineraries will return you to your home city today, one day after you depart Windhoek.

ACCOMMODATIONS
(Click hotel name to read description)

Windhoek (1 night):  Villa Verdi Guesthouse

Sossusvlei (2 nights):  Desert Homestead Lodge

Swakopmund (2 nights):  Beach Lodge

Vingerklip (2 nights):  Vingerklip Lodge

Etosha (1 night):  Okaukuejo Restcamp

Fort Namutoni (2 nights):  Fort Namutoni Restcamp

Otjiwarongo (1 night):  Okonjima Lodge

Kalahari: (1 night):  Eningu Clay House

TOUR PREPARATION

Entry Requirements—U.S. and Canadian citizens do not require visas for Namibia. All you need is a valid passport good for six months after the tour’s end.

Immunizations—Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the latest immunization recommendations. Make sure your tetanus booster is current.

Exit Requirements—Departure taxes are generally included in the cost of your international flight.

SUGGESTED VIEWING

• Running Free (1999) starring Chase Moore
• The King is Alive (2000) starring Jennifer Jason Leigh
• The Cell (2000) starring Jennifer Lopez

WHAT TO BRING

Namibia is in the southern hemisphere, so it is late winter there in July. The weather should be cool and dry. Temperature ranges from the mid-40’s in higher reaches up to low 70’s in the desert and along the coast. You’ll want to bring clothes you can layer for cool weather that can be pealed off as the day warms up.
     Make two copies of all your important documents, like passports. Take one with you, in a different bag than the original, and leave one at home with someone who is easy to reach. Try to memorize all your important numbers—passport numbers, credit card numbers, etc. If you lose your bag, this could be an enormous help.
     If you require specific drugs, bring a supply and a spare prescription. Bring extra eyeglasses, and/or a copy of your prescription. If you wear contact lenses, consider using disposables. Also bring spectacles as the dry dusty environment of some game reserves may irritate your eyes. If you’ve forgotten anything, you can buy whatever you need, probably at a good price. You won’t need dress-up clothes at any time on this tour. Leave expensive jewelry at home.

Suggested Packing List:

____ Passport valid for 6 months.

____ Day pack.

____ Money belt or pouch.

____ Sturdy walking shoes.

____ Second pair of shoes / Sandals.

____ Socks & underwear, enough for only one week since laundry services are readily available.

____ Shorts—(1 or 2 pairs).

____ Shirts—combo of long-sleeved, short-sleeved, t-shirts (8 - 10).

____ Long pants—(4 pairs) for dinners and cool evenings.

____ Sweater or jacket.

____ Swimsuit.

____ Bandannas (these have many uses including dust protection on game drives).

____ Sunglasses / Sunhat with tie-on.

____ Sunscreen / Lip Balm.

____ Mosquito Repellent.

____ Water repellent jacket or windbreaker & umbrella.

____ Personal toiletries / Wet wipes.

____ Ziploc bags (small for documents, large for wet things).

____ Binoculars, camera, lots of film rolls or digital memory cards, extra camera batteries.

____ A good book!

MONEY MATTERS

The Namibian Dollar (NAD; symbol N$) is in note denominations of N$200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of N$5, N$1, 50 cents, 10 cents and 5 cents. It is linked to the South African Rand (R) on a 1:1 basis (South African Rand = 100 cents). The South African Rand is also acceptable as currency in Namibia. American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted.

Taxes and Tipping—Value Added Tax (VAT) is levied on most goods and services but, as a foreign national, you may reclaim VAT on anything you bought to take out of the country unused. You need to do this before you embark on your flight home. We will give collective tips for services along the way. Budget about $50 U.S. each day for out-of-pocket expenses / non-included meals.

RESERVATIONS

To reserve a place on this tour, click on the “Reservations” link above. Type in the information requested in each field, print the form, then sign and mail it to Toto Tours with your $500 deposit check. You also have the option to pay for your tour deposit with a Visa or MasterCard. The remaining balance is due 80 days prior to departure (by April 12, 2008). Tour registration is not complete until we have received both the signed reservation form and your deposit check or credit card authorization.
     Toto Tours does not accept credit cards as a form of payment except for the amount of the tour deposit ($500 maximum can be charged per tour). An installment plan is possible. Our mailing address is: Toto Tours, 1326 W. Albion Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60626-4753. Make checks payable to: Toto Tours, Ltd.

LIABILITIES & DISCLAIMERS

Making a reservation with a deposit shall be deemed to be consent to these conditions: Toto Tours does not accept responsibility in whole or in part for any delay, loss, accidents, personal injury, sickness, medical expenses, or property damage occasioned by fault of any person from whatever cause. All participants are required to sign a standard liability form.
     We strongly encourage you purchase Travel Insurance to cover all aspects of your travel in Namibia! We will provide the necessary forms upon receipt of your deposit, or you can apply online by following the link at the bottom of this page. You can also book your travel insurance with a phone call to Toto Tours.
     The tour operators reserve the right to accept or decline any person as a member of the tour at any time and to make whatever changes become necessary with or without notice. Guaranteed departure with a minimum of ten participants.
     Toto Tours is not responsible for airline cancellation or change penalties incurred by individual tour participants for air tickets purchased prior to notification that the tour is a confirmed departure.

THE TOTO SPIRIT

• fun-loving optimists who have a sense of humor and accentuate the positive;
• good natured realists who are willing to accept situations as they exist;
• undaunted by the unexpected, like occasional delays or bad weather;
• willing to forego some of the amenities we normally take for granted;
• eager to try new things & test limits;
• punctual;
• not whiners!

Fulfill your secret fantasy to get away from it all, like Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, and escape with Toto Tours to the other-worldly beauty of the desert landscapes of Namibia. If you have any questions, please call toll-free: 800-565-1241.

THE BOTTOM LINE
(tour prices per person)

Price:  $4,695 double occupancy

Private Room:  $700 extra, if available. (Not required. Toto Tours can match you with a roommate if you are traveling alone and prefer to share a room.)

Deposit:  $500  (Due at time of registration for the tour. May be paid with a credit card.)

Remaining Balance:  $4,195 double / $4,895 single
(Assumes $500 deposit has already been made)

Remaining Balance Due:  April 12, 2008
(Full payment required with reservation form if enrolling after this date.)

Included:  Accommodations, meals, ground transportation as per itinerary; entrance fees and activities as per itinerary; airport transfers; services of an accredited driver-guide and a Toto Tours escort; transport in air-conditioned vehicles.

Not Included:  Round-trip international air transportation to Windhoek, Namibia; meals and activities not specifically included in the itinerary; insurance; alcohol; soft drinks; bottled water; laundry; telephone calls; faxes; porterage; any other expenses of a personal nature. Tips to drivers and guides not included.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

We recommend you purchase travel insurance with AIG Travel Guard to cover for unforseen events prior to and during your trip. Please follow the link below or call us for more information.