PROJECT INTRODUCTION
This project involves traveling around Namibia by truck, experiencing its mysterious nature, such as deserts, canyons, and wildlife habitats.
You can camp in the wild with friends from various countries and experience the untouched nature of the Earth.
Namibia, where African adventure blossoms!
The place where the Ssangmun-dong foursome showcased their youth in the travel show, Namibia!
In Namibia, you can easily see vast natural landscapes stretching infinitely. Thanks to its more stabilized social infrastructure compared to other African countries, many people visit Namibia as it offers a safer way to travel in Africa. For these reasons, Namibia has not only been featured in domestic variety shows but also in movies like <Mad Max: Fury Road>, 10,000 BC, and the American TV series <The Prisoner: 2009>. Play in the vast deserts under the hot sun, and enjoy your thrilling youth among the endless natural scenery and wildlife!
Feel the Earth as it is in Namibia!
The vast nature heals our minds and gives us new courage. Close your eyes under the starlight and listen to the sounds of nature, or take a deep breath in a canyon! You'll feel a surge of confidence within you. And if there’s another way to enrich your Namibian journey, it's reading <The Little Prince> while camping in the Namibian desert. Namibia is particularly known for its abundance of baobab trees. Seeing a lone baobab tree standing in the golden desert will naturally remind you of a scene from Saint-Exupéry's <The Little Prince>. Reading <The Little Prince> while camping will give you a different inspiration from what you felt when you read it as a child.
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
English Proficiency Required ★★★☆☆
Since most activities involve camping, safari tours, and hiking, you can join the project as long as you can communicate at a basic level. However, for safety reasons, there may be situations where you need to communicate with the local coordinator.
Project Details and Activities
This is a project where you travel around Namibia with friends from different countries by truck while camping. You’ll visit places where you can experience the untouched natural wonders of Namibia, including not only famous tourist spots but also areas less frequented by tourists. If you’re someone who loves adventure, this is your chance to conquer Namibia!
- Duration: 11 days
- Locations: Namib Desert, Etosha National Park, Sossusvlei Canyon, Swakopmund, and other major tourist spots in Namibia
- Available Dates: Refer to the <Schedule and Cost> below
■ Activity Details
- Travel to various tourist attractions across Namibia by a designated truck.
- Enjoy safari trips, bike tours, hiking, and city tours in deserts, canyons, national parks, etc. (Refer to the detailed schedule)
- Out of the 11 days, 7 days will be spent camping in national parks or outdoor campsites, and the remaining 1 night will be spent in a hotel, and 2 nights in small accommodations.
- This project involves a team of 4 to 17 people from various countries traveling together.
(Meals during outdoor activities and camping are included in the participation fee, but meals during city exploration, free time, after-parties, and drinking sessions are not included.)
■Additional Information
- 1-night hotel accommodation is provided the day before the project starts and the day after it ends. (Single occupancy)
- For a smooth start to the project, it is recommended to arrive in Namibia the day before the project begins, so you can start at your own pace. Likewise, it is recommended to plan your departure for the day after the project ends to account for any delays. The detailed schedule will be provided after your participation is confirmed.
(If you do not wish to extend your stay before or after the project, please inquire in advance before applying.)
■Essential Items to Prepare
- Towels, sleeping bags, and travel pillows for camping
* Further details on what to prepare will be provided during orientation.
* Since this project involves outdoor activities and remote locations, plans may not always proceed as expected.
African truck travel is more enjoyable when you participate with an open mind, embracing unexpected situations.
The official start of the project begins today. At 2 PM, you will meet the travel guide and your team members at the designated meeting point, where a brief overview will be provided.On the first day, you will spend the afternoon exploring the highlights of Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Namibia, having been a German colony, features buildings and landmarks reminiscent of medieval Germany. In the evening after the schedule ends, feel free to visit a pub or restaurant in Windhoek's downtown to get to know your fellow travelers.
- Overview of the entire project schedule and instructions
- City tour of Windhoek
- Accommodation in a comfortable hotel
Day 2: Windhoek - Namibian Desert
Travel through the Namibian desert, where you can meet real Bushmen. Experience local African culture at the Greenfire Desert Camp and take in the endless sand dunes. Enjoy a camping experience, build memories with your team, and savor a romantic meal under the starlight.
Day 3: Namibian Desert Conservation Area - Filming Location of "Youth Over Flowers"
Travel through the Namibian Desert, often referred to as the heart of Namibia. Enjoy the vast plains, red dunes, and towering rock formations that showcase spectacular natural scenery.
- Transfer to the Namibian Desert (game drive*, game walk, camping)
- Visit the wildlife conservation area in the Namibian Desert
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
To ensure travelers' safety, all animals are allowed to roam freely within approximately 22,000 hectares of land while maintaining a natural environment. Don’t miss out on the unique flora and fauna of the desert as explained by the expert guide! You’ll have the chance to walk slowly through this beautiful environment, and there will also be time to relax and cool down from the hot weather. In the afternoon, enjoy a desert drive and experience traditional sundowners* while watching the beautiful sunset!
* Sundowner: A drink enjoyed at sunset * Game Drive
A safari tour. It involves driving across the savannah to explore wildlife. Typically, an open jeep is used, which allows you to see the wildlife up close. Additionally, as long as the wildlife doesn’t attack first, they rarely do, making the safari experience safe while traveling in a jeep.You can enjoy an exciting safari experience safely.
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Day 4: Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei Dunes - Filming location of "Youth Over Flowers"
Explore the highlights of the Namibian desert, including Sesriem Canyon and Sossusvlei Dunes. Sesriem Canyon, formed during the Ice Age 7 million years ago, is a place where you can feel the earth’s ancient beginnings. Sossusvlei Dunes boasts some of the highest sand dunes in the world. Enjoy the marvels of nature in this breathtaking environment!
- Travel to Sesriem Canyon
- Move to and climb Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei Dunes
- Travel in a 4WD vehicle
- Camping in the desert
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
Days 5-6: Swakopmund - Filming location of "Youth Over Flowers"
Drive through the Kuiseb Canyon and Naukluft National Park, moving to the coastal town of Walvis Bay in central Namibia. Afterwards, travel to Swakopmund, Namibia’s premier resort town, and stay in a comfortable accommodation while exploring the city. Experience Namibian local cuisine and culture in Swakopmund.
- Drive through Naukluft National Park
- Move to Walvis Bay coastal town
- Travel to Swakopmund
- Free time to explore Swakopmund city
- Optional activities: 4WD bike tours, sandboarding, skydiving, desert tours, cruise tours, etc.
* These activities are paid on-site and are not included in the tour price. Participation is optional.
- Day 5: Breakfast and lunch provided / Day 6: Breakfast provided
Day 7: Skeleton Coast - Spitzkoppe
Explore the Skeleton Coast, named for its ominous meaning. Many ships were wrecked here due to thick fog and rough waves, giving it the name Skeleton Coast. However, despite the name, it features stunning landscapes surrounded by the Namib Desert and is home to thousands of sea lions, allowing close observation of various wildlife.
Later, head inland to Spitzkoppe, an iconic granite mountain in the Namib Desert. Spitzkoppe boasts over 120 million years of history, with peaks rising dramatically from the flat plains, the highest of which is about 1,728 meters above sea level. After an afternoon of exploration, set up camp, enjoy the sunset, and relax for the evening.
- Travel to Skeleton Coast
- Visit Spitzkoppe, the iconic Namib Desert mountain
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
Day 8: Brandberg Mountain
Travel across the vast desert to Brandberg Mountain, the highest peak in Namibia. During the journey, you'll have the chance to interact with the local Himba tribe and see the 'White Lady' Bushman paintings at the base of Brandberg Mountain. There will also be an opportunity to spot desert elephants, and after the afternoon's activities, set up camp and enjoy a relaxing evening.
- Visit Brandberg Mountain, the highest peak in Namibia
- Meet the Himba tribe
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
* The drive to see desert elephants at Brandberg Mountain is not included in the tour price and is optional.
Days 9-10: Etosha National Park
The highlight of this trip is Etosha National Park. Spend two nights here enjoying dynamic game drives. At night, you can go on a night game drive to observe nocturnal animals, and during the day, explore every corner of the vast national park on game drives.
- Travel to Etosha National Park
- Two days of camping within the national park
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
* The cost for the evening drive within the park is not included and is optional.
Day 11: Windhoek
The final day of the trip. Pack your belongings and prepare to return to the city. Cherish the memories with your travel companions and share plans for the future.
- Travel to Windhoek (approximately 5 hours), expected arrival in the late afternoon
- Breakfast provided
* It is recommended to schedule your departure the day after the final itinerary if you are returning immediately after the Namibia truck tour.
Delays may occur due to local circumstances, and we are not responsible for missed flights due to such delays.
* Please book your flights and transportation after receiving final confirmation of your project participation and departure schedule.
2024 Namibia Trucking Departure Schedule | |||
January | 6th | February | 3rd |
March | 2nd, 30th | April | 27th |
May | 25th | June | 22nd |
July | 20th | August | 17th |
September | 14th | October | 12th |
November | 9th | December | 7th |
* Detailed reviews from participants can be found on the Gap Year Stories (click) page.
* More participant reviews can be found at the bottom of the project under "Participant Reviews".
SUPPORT
Local Orientation | Online Orientation | Online Consultation | KGY Note Book |
KGY Certification | Pre-Departure Care | KGY Consultation | OT Documents |
24hr Emergency Care | Flight Ticket Booking Assistance | Real-Time Consultation Service | Project and Participation Costs |
Transportation during the project (truck) | Pre-project accommodation | Meals provided during the project (3 times a day) | Airport-hotel pickup service |
African tour guide | Basic outdoor activities | 1 night accommodation before the trip and 1 night after the end | Camping equipment |
National park entrance fee |
Details of Inclusions
- Basic outdoor activities include game drives, bicycle tours, and jeep tours.
- Some meals during the project are not included. Please refer to the detailed schedule for more information.
- Accommodation for 1 night before the trip and 1 night after the trip will be provided in a single room.
Exclusions
- Round-trip airfare and visa issuance fees
- Personal travel insurance and vaccination costs
- Optional activities (e.g., quad bike tours, skydiving)
- Costs for free time sightseeing and meals during city tours
INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION
This organization was established in 1983 and has been introducing the beautiful and unique natural landscapes, culture, and history of Africa to many people through trucking tours for about 35 years. While most trucking tour organizations are run by Europeans, this organization is operated by locals from Africa, providing a deeper understanding of Africa's unique culture and natural environment. From its inception, the organization has prioritized sustainability as a key value, showing future generations the wonders of Africa, and contributes to local development through hiring local staff, spending locally, supporting local schools, and engaging in environmental protection activities.
This organization is licensed by the African Travel Association and registered with the tourism boards of each country. Moreover, with FGASA*-registered professional guides and the organization's own trucks modified with 35 years of expertise accompanying the journey from start to finish, the experience is safer. Learn about Africa's nature and safari tour expertise from passionate, environmentally-conscious guides!
[Note] FGASA An organization that trains professional guides to protect South Africa's natural and cultural heritage. FGASA has strict qualification standards, including knowledge of South African nature and culture conservation, basic knowledge of guiding, understanding of field equipment, teamwork, and interpersonal skills. |
Message from the Local Organization Representative
Hello Gap Year participants! Our organization, established in 1983, is a professional institution that regularly operates tours in South Africa. The project we run is designed to offer travelers experiences that go beyond the ordinary, providing opportunities to experience things in Africa that are not easily accessible. With over 34 years of professional experience, this project will ensure that you have a truly remarkable experience on earth. Specifically, this project is designed to allow you to see beautiful landscapes, take on new challenges, and experience history, culture, and wildlife in a well-rounded journey. We hope you will join us for this project. Thank you.
ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION
■ Camping
This project involves camping mostly in national parks and outdoor campsites in Africa. Camping gear such as tents, chairs, and camping beds are provided. The tents are sturdy, safari-grade, and come with mosquito nets. During the camping experience, participants will set up tents, light fires, prepare meals, wash dishes, and clean, learning to care for and help each other. This process allows you to build memories with international friends and experience the majestic nights on the African landscape, creating unforgettable moments for a lifetime.
2 people per tent / Camping equipment provided / Meals provided during camping / Water supply and shower facilities available |
*The camping environment may vary depending on the season and the status of the campsites.
*Upgrades for accommodation are available upon request, so please inquire individually.
■ Hotel / Lodging Facilities
On the first night, you will stay at a hotel in Windhoek city. This hotel is close to the airport and is equipped with an outdoor pool and gym, making it an ideal place to prepare for the trucking journey. In Swakopmund, you will stay for 2 days at a lodging facility (lodge). This facility is a bungalow or similar accommodation, which is a cross between camping and a motel. It accommodates 2-4 people and has bath/shower facilities.
2 people per room / Wi-Fi available |
LOCATION INTRODUCTION
Location: Namibia
Namibia: The Heart of African Travel!
Known as the hidden gem of Africa, Namibia is a country located in the southwest of Africa. With clear skies for about 300 days of the year and untouched natural environments such as deserts, canyons, and plains, it is one of the top tourist destinations in Southern Africa. Additionally, as the tourism industry is well-developed, it is safer and cleaner compared to surrounding African countries. From the breathtaking red desert to the 7-million-year-old Sesriem Canyon and the Etosha National Park, where diverse animals roam freely, Namibia offers an opportunity to experience the mysteries of Earth's creation firsthand.
Participants
* This project involves a lot of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and jeep tours in a tropical environment, so it requires a good level of physical health to participate. It is also recommended for those who can adapt well to these conditions.
- Anyone aged 18 to 55 who is in good physical health
- Anyone who wants to enjoy exciting travel with friends of various nationalities
- Anyone with a strong spirit of adventure and a desire to take on new challenges
- Anyone who is proactive and enjoys making connections with new people
Highly Recommended for These People! The charm of truck travel in nature is truly indescribable. However, it can also be inconvenient at times. You might spend long hours on the truck and be exposed to the sun during outdoor activities. Additionally, you will need to adapt to cooperative living with friends from different cultures. Therefore, this experience is highly recommended for those with an open mind who are more focused on finding valuable and amazing experiences rather than being bothered by the discomforts of the environment. The experiences gained from truck travel will be unforgettable for a lifetime. |
SCHEDULE AND PRICES
■ The participation period for this project is 11days .
■ Participation Fee: 3,390,000 KRW
* If you do not wish to stay 1 day before or after the project, please contact Korea Gap Year.
* For popular projects, there might be no available spots, so please apply as soon as possible to secure your spot.
■ Available Dates for 2024
01/06 ~ 01/16 | 02/03 ~ 02/13 | 03/02 ~ 03/12 |
03/30 ~ 04/09 | 04/27 ~ 05/07 | 05/25 ~ 06/04 |
06/22 ~ 07/02 | 07/20 ~ 07/30 | 08/17 ~ 08/27 |
09/14 ~ 09/24 | 10/12 ~ 10/22 | 11/09 ~ 11/19 |
12/07 ~ 12/17 |
■ Estimated Additional Costs
Item | Details and Notes | Amount |
Round-trip Airfare (Including TAX) | Varies by flight | Approximately 800,000 to 1,700,000 KRW expected |
Visa Issuance Fee | When using an agency | 180,000 KRW |
Individual Travel Insurance | Varies by insurer / period | Approximately 35,000 KRW expected |
Local Stay Costs | Meals during the period (per meal) | Approximately 20,000 KRW expected |
Additional Activity Costs |
4x4 Jeep Tour (1 hour) Sandboarding Skydiving Dolphin Tour |
NAD 400 NAD 400 NAD 2,100 NAD 600 |
* Airfare may vary depending on the flight.
* Local stay costs and expected local prices are based on average standards and may vary according to participant preferences.
* Additional activities are diverse and can be selected at the travel destination.
■Early Bird Discount and Emergency Application Information
It is recommended to apply for all gap year projects at least 3 months before the project start date due to the standard procedures and preparation time required. Applications should be submitted no later than 2 months before the start date. However, if you have urgent reasons or need to join the project quickly, you can use the emergency application service and pay an additional fee to expedite the process as much as possible.
* While we aim to expedite the process as much as possible, there is basic time required for communication with local agencies and confirming participation. Therefore, those using the emergency application service must actively cooperate with the Korea Gap Year operating team.
** Participants who apply more than 180 days before the start date can receive an early bird discount.
*** The emergency application service can be applied for in the selection options above, and for inquiries regarding the emergency application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.
- Provided Services: Automatic application for gap year missions and notes / Full provision of OT materials upon confirmation / Additional emergency staffing / Support in preparing documents if needed, etc.
* If you have difficulties with date calculations, please refer to the Naver date calculator >> Naver Date Calculator
**Note: In the case of ultra-urgent applications, there may be no availability due to local conditions, and the process will proceed according to the gap year refund policy.Additionally, any issues arising from the participant's non-cooperation will be the responsibility of the participant.