7 Day Namibia Desert, Swakopmund och Etosha National Park Camping

I took a chance on this 3 year old company for the promise of smaller groups, and for a tour that started in the desert and ended in Etosha (as so many other tours do the reverse). In every way, I was surprised, delighted, and continually telling myself what a stroke of luck it was that I had chosen Discovery. I was in a group of 2 people, with a third person (who had a shorter tour) for half of that time. My tour guide was Seven; I am at a loss for words to convey how knowledgeable, well-spoken, talented, personable, and enthusiastic he is as a person and as a guide. He can speak about any subject with depth and consideration, a useful trait for those long drives between destinations. Also, a great campfire cook! In the desert sands, he has the driving skills to navigate his way along paths that others have become stuck in (and he kindly helps those who have become trapped). In Etosha, he could spot animals in the distance that I could not see, even after he pointed them out. While other vehicles would rush by without noticing, Seven would slowly roll up to a spot and point out what other tour drivers would miss, whether lions under a tree, or a rhino right beside the road but camouflaged in a mudbath. I saw some amazing creatures doing amazing things, and I credit the skill and enthusiasm of Seven in large part for this. I will be forever grateful for my experience with Discovery. Fanuel has a great staff at the Discovery Lodge, and even my time in Windhoek (which is not an exciting town) the days before and after the tour were terrific. Discovery will make arrangements on your behalf for any upgraded lodgings you wish to purchase. I recommend taking a private room at the lodge for Etosha - very worth it!