Fly-in safaris in Namibia

Wilderness luxury fly-in safari lodges in Namibia are accessed via Eros Airport (ERS) in Windhoek with Wilderness Air’s scheduled circuit flying to our remote lodges countrywide, with connecting hubs at Wilderness Doro Nawas and in Swakopmund. Since 1991, Wilderness Air has maintained a reputation for steadfast operations and excellent guest service. The company offers meet-and-greet services at all flight bases, and VIP airport lounges in Windhoek, Maun, Kasane, and Victoria Falls, which include a private lounge, light refreshments and luggage assistance services.

All Wilderness fly-in safaris operate with a light eco-footprint by managing all of the logistics on the ground with an environmentally-conscious approach. Safari lodge flights in Namibia are operated on a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, a turboprop workhorse that seats up to 12 passengers and is known for its ability to land on rugged dirt airstrips, while the Cessna 210 is a faster, high-wing 5-passenger aircraft offering great window visibility for scenic desert flights over long distances and is used for our accessing more remote camps. More than just a connection, a fly-in safari in Namibia provides a breathtaking start to your journey.

How does a fly-in safari in Namibia work?

Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) is the main arrival airport for all international flights into Namibia. Located approximately 40 km outside of the capital city of Windhoek, with a transfer time of ±40–50 minutes to the city and to Eros Airport for domestic connections. Most Wilderness Namibia itineraries begin and end via Windhoek (WDH). Eros Airport (ERS) is Windhoek’s domestic aviation hub and is located within the city, approximately 10 minutes from most central hotels, making it more convenient for domestic departures and arrivals. Eros Airport also serves as the operational base for the Wilderness Air Namibia fleet. The Wilderness Airport team offers a meet and greet service which includes meeting guests outside the luggage collection and assistance to the Wilderness Airport Lounge and itinerary briefing.

Wilderness Air Namibia operates scheduled flying circuits to all Wilderness lodges in Namibia as well as hops to various third-party partner properties. These circuits are designed to operate efficiently across long distances while still prioritising convenience. Departure and arrival times may vary by day and routing and flights may include intermediate stops. And while flexibility is inherent in light aircraft operations, and exact timings are confirmed closer to travel, routing and timings are always planned to accommodate international and regional connections where possible. If connecting via Windhoek, international flights should arrive no later than 14:00 and depart after 16:00, or a night will have to be spent in Windhoek, or a sole use charter arranged. A Wilderness Travel Designer will be able to assist in logistics and flight arrangements for your chosen safari.

What are the luggage restrictions on a fly-in safari?

For your fly-in safari in Namibia, luggage should not exceed 20 kg (44 lb) per person, including hand luggage and camera equipment. Only soft-sided bags are allowed. Excess luggage can be pre-booked in 20 kg units, charged per flight sector, while complimentary luggage storage is available at the Wilderness Windhoek Airport Lounge.

How much does a fly-in safari in Namibia cost?

Namibia's fly-in safaris carry a higher price tag, and for good reason. The country follows a strict low impact conservation model and the remoteness of Namibia’s camps also contributes to the cost, but many travellers are happy to invest in privacy and experiences that help fund conservation and support local communities. Rates for Wilderness lodges in Namibia vary significantly based on exclusivity, level of luxury and the season, ranging between USD500 and 2,000 pppn for your lodge stay with flights and transfers added in to your final itinerary cost. Fly-in safaris in Namibia can also be combined with self-driving itineraries for the best of both.

Are the light aircraft safe?

Yes, Wilderness Air has been operating fly-in safaris since 1991, having expanded its aviation services from Botswana into Namibia in 1993, with unparalleled expertise in bush flying. The fleet is designed for safe and smooth landings on remote airstrips and the bush pilots have decades of experience between them.

Wilderness invests in cutting-edge technology and a safety-first approach, with an ICAO-compliant Safety Management System and dedicated officers. We also conduct expert training with rigorous pilot training, including bi-annual proficiency checks and real-time monitoring with satellite tracking and engine condition monitoring. Our airstrips are also inspected regularly and all aircraft are maintained to strict Civil Aviation and manufacturer standards, undergoing annual regulatory audits plus internal and external checks.

When is the best time for a fly-in safari in Namibia?

Namibia is a true year-round destination with less seasonal changes than other parts of southern Africa. Along the Namibian coastline, the cold Atlantic Benguela Current dictates the weather. When the Namibian coastline is fogged in, which sometimes happens in the winter months between April and August, Swakopmund is inaccessible. As the norm, Wilderness Air Namibia will use Arandis for refuelling on a circuit if necessary, instead of Swakopmund. Located inland to the north-east, out of the fog, Arandis is more reliable, however arrangements can still be made to visit Swakopmund if this is part of your planned itinerary.