NAMIBIA

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Discover with us the most diverse country in Africa, Namibia!

Join us on this extraordinary photographic expedition and capture the unparalleled beauty of one of Africa’s most stunning landscapes. From the world’s oldest desert and its iconic red dunes to the wildlife uniquely adapted to this harsh terrain, this expedition showcases the very best of this southern African gem.

John Quintero Expeditions is excited to present Namibia: Beyond the Desert, a photographic journey through this land of contrasts, where the desert’s rugged beauty meets the Atlantic Ocean’s generosity.

The expedition will take place from June 18 to July 1, 2025 (14 days / 13 nights), with Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, as both the arrival and departure city.

John Quintero and an expert local guide will accompany you every step, offering insightful and expert guidance to ensure you capture stunning photographs while having an unforgettable experience. We guarantee you a fascinating adventure in a dreamlike country that is home to the world’s oldest desert and the tallest dunes on the planet.

-This expedition is limited to only 10 participants-

¿WHY NAMIBIA?

Namibia is a paradise for photographers, offering a wide range of subjects, from the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei to the rugged mountains of Damaraland and the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park. With its vast open spaces, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Namibia provides endless opportunities to capture the perfect shot.

¿WHY JUNE?

One of the main reasons to visit Namibia in June is the favorable weather conditions. June marks the beginning of the dry season in Namibia, with clear skies and minimal rainfall. This means photographers can expect excellent lighting conditions to capture landscapes, wildlife, and the starry skies for which Namibia is famous. The lack of rain also ensures that the landscapes are dust-free, offering crystal-clear views of the breathtaking natural scenery Namibia is known for.

Additionally, June is when Namibia experiences its winter season. While winter in Namibia may sound cold, it actually offers pleasant daytime temperatures, making outdoor photography more comfortable and enjoyable. The cooler temperatures also mean that wildlife is more active during the day, increasing the chances of capturing captivating photos of animals in their natural habitats.

Etosha National Park, one of Namibia’s premier wildlife reserves, is especially rewarding during this time as animals gather around the waterholes, offering excellent photographic opportunities.

Una de las razones principales para visitar Namibia en junio son las condiciones meteorológicas favorables. Junio marca el comienzo de la temporada seca en Namibia, con cielos despejados y lluvias mínimas. Esto significa que los fotógrafos podemos esperar excelentes condiciones de iluminación para capturar paisajes, vida silvestre y los cielos estrellados por la noche por los que Namibia es famosa. La falta de lluvia también asegura que los paisajes estén libres de polvo, ofreciendo vistas cristalinas de los impresionantes escenarios naturales por los que Namibia es conocida.

Además, junio es el momento en que Namibia experimenta su temporada de invierno. Mientras que el invierno en Namibia puede sonar frío, en realidad ofrece temperaturas agradables durante el día, lo que hace que la fotografía al aire libre sea más cómoda y placentera. Las temperaturas más frescas también significan que la vida salvaje está más activa durante el día, aumentando las posibilidades de capturar fotos cautivadoras de animales en sus hábitats naturales.

El Parque Nacional Etosha, una de las principales reservas de vida silvestre de Namibia, es especialmente gratificante durante esta época ya que los animales se congregan alrededor de los abrevaderos, ofreciendo excelentes oportunidades fotográficas.

HIGHLIGHTS

⁠Sossusvlei Dunes: Witness the surreal beauty of the world’s tallest sand dunes, glowing in bright orange under the rising and setting sun.
⁠In Deadvlei, you’ll feel like part of a Dalí painting—a dry clay lakebed with perfect tree skeletons, ideal for landscape and fine art photography.

⁠Etosha National Park: Capture incredible wildlife moments as we explore one of Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuaries.

⁠Skeleton Coast: Photograph the eerily beautiful coastline dotted with shipwrecks (hence the name).

⁠Damaraland: Discover fascinating rock formations and ancient petroglyphs, home to the elusive desert-adapted elephants.

⁠Cultural Encounters: Interact with the indigenous Himba people during a visit to their community, and document their traditional way of life.

⁠Astrophotography: Namibia boasts skies free from light pollution, making it an ideal location for stunning night photography.

COST OF THE EXPEDITION

The Namibia -Beyond the Desert- Photographic Expedition is priced at $7,250 if you reserve your spot before March 15, 2025. A deposit of $1,500 is required to secure your spot.

After March 16, the cost of the expedition is $7,550.

What’s Included?

• Airport-hotel-airport transfers in Windhoek
• All meals from the welcome dinner on June 18, 2025, to breakfast on July 1, 2025
• Non-alcoholic drinks with each meal
• 13 nights of accommodation in 4-star hotels and camps (double occupancy)*
• Entry to all national parks and nature reserves
• Private land transportation throughout the expedition
• Safaris in 4×4 vehicles with qualified guides
• Constant support from John Quintero
• Multilingual local guide fluent in Afrikaans and English
• Advice on camera equipment, composition, and tips to capture your best photographs
• Pre- and post-trip advisory
• Night photography workshops
• Portrait workshop with the Himba communities
• The expedition will be conducted in both English and Spanish

*Single accommodation is available for an additional cost.

What’s Not Included?

• Visa costs and processing
• International flights
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Tips
• Alcoholic beverages
• Laundry service
• Meals and drinks outside of the established times and locations
• Accommodation or activities before or after the start and end dates of the expedition
• Any activity and/or service not specifically mentioned as included in the expedition

Accepted Payment Methods:

We accept all credit cards via PayPal. Credit card payments can be made with or without a PayPal account (a 5% surcharge applies to this payment method).

You can also pay via bank transfer in the UK or Colombia (the official exchange rate on the day will apply to USD).

For other payment methods, please contact us.

Payment Policy:

To reserve your place on the Photographic Expedition to Namibia, a deposit of $1,500 is required as soon as possible. Your spot will not be reserved until this payment is made. Full payment must be received by May 20, 2025.

Cancellation Policy:

• Cancellations made in writing before April 1, 2025, will receive a 100% refund of the amount paid.
• Cancellations made in writing before April 30, 2025, will receive a 60% refund of the amount paid.
• Cancellations requested by any means after May 1, 2025, will not receive any refund of the amount paid.

FAQ

What are the dates of the expedition?

The expedition will take place from June 18 to 30, 2025, lasting 14 days and 13 nights.

Do I need a visa for this expedition?

Yes. Most international citizens require a visa to enter Namibia. The visa currently costs around $30 and can be processed online through the official Government of Namibia website: https://eservices.mhaiss.gov.na/

It generally takes about a month to process, so we recommend signing up well in advance.

To reserve your spot or to get more information, including details about the visa process, feel free to reach out to us at info@johnquintero.com or by phone in the UK at +447984608576 (also available on WhatsApp).

Is travel insurance included in the Photographic Expedition price?

No. Participants must purchase their own medical and international travel insurance (mandatory).

Who is this expedition for?

This adventure is designed for photographers of all experience levels and anyone interested in discovering Namibia. We’ve personally crafted this itinerary to make the most of the light, from dawn to dusk.

Do I need to be an experienced or professional photographer to join this expedition?

This experience is open to photographers of all levels. We recommend downloading a PDF of your camera’s manual to have it handy on your phone. If you need advice regarding equipment or photography lessons before the trip, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Do I need to be in good physical shape for this expedition?

This is an experience that requires little physical effort, though it does include walks that are no longer than two kilometres on mostly flat terrain. However, due to the nature of the terrain, wheelchair access is not available.

Do you want to travel with a non-photographer companion?

No problem! Many people think that travelling with a group of photographers might be boring, but the truth is, companions will have an unforgettable experience. They will have access to places with few or no other tourists, without the rush of moving from one location to another, making this a relaxing experience.

This expedition is filled with exciting adventures for any type of traveller. So if you’d like to bring a companion along, feel free to do so!

SUGGESTED PHOTOGRAPHIC GEAR

On all our expeditions, we provide advice to participants regarding the recommended equipment based on the destination and the type of photography we’ll be focusing on.

For Namibia, given that most of the itinerary will centre around wildlife, landscapes, portraits, and nature photography, we suggest the following:

• 1 or 2 camera bodies, regardless of brand or model. If you’re using a point-and-shoot camera that doesn’t allow lens changes, it should ideally have a zoom of at least 200 mm.
• If you’re using a mirrorless or DSLR camera with interchangeable lenses, we recommend lenses that cover a range from 14 mm to 200 mm as a minimum, and ideally up to 600 mm, especially for wildlife photography.
• Portrait lenses: 50 mm, 85 mm, and 70-200 mm, preferably with wide apertures (minimum f/2.8).
• Tripod
• Neutral density filters
• Polarizer filter
• Camera cleaning equipment

Remember, this expedition is for photographers of all levels. If you’re just learning how to handle your camera and don’t want to invest in expensive gear, that’s absolutely fine.

Before our trip, we will hold an online meeting to clarify any doubts and answer all your questions. We’re happy to assist with any photography-related guidance, including equipment, if you need it.

As for clothing and other gear recommendations, we will send you a welcome pack with plenty of time before your departure, providing detailed information and suggestions on what to bring.

ITINERARY

Day 1, June 18, 2025 – Windhoek
We expect all participants to arrive on this day.

If you arrive before June 18 and need assistance with accommodation, activities, or transportation, please reach out to us.

Airport-hotel transfer.

Welcome dinner in Windhoek.

Rest at the hotel.

Day 2, June 19, 2025 – Okonjima Nature Reserve
Breakfast at the hotel in Windhoek.

We head to the Okonjima Nature Reserve to track leopards and the elusive brown hyena, one of the rarest species, known for both its unique features and behaviours. Here, we will have the opportunity to learn more about these two species, making this a true triumph for photographing them in their natural habitat. With the help of expert guides from the reserve, we will go on an unforgettable safari.

Overnight at Okonjima Plains Camp.

Day 3, June 20, 2025 – Okonjima Nature Reserve
Another luxury safari day where we visit part of the reserve dedicated to pangolin conservation. The pangolin is the most trafficked mammal in the world and one of the most endangered species. Seeing one in its habitat will be a privilege, and our visit will support the conservation efforts for the species.

We will also have the chance to see large predators such as cheetahs and leopards, along with rhinoceroses and giraffes. These safaris will take place in specially equipped vehicles.

Overnight at a camp inside the park.

Day 4, June 21, 2025 – Etosha National Park
After breakfast, we will head to Etosha National Park, where we will have the opportunity to photograph a variety of wildlife, including impalas, elands, zebras, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the famous white elephants, so named because they cover themselves with the white sand from the vast salt pans. This park is also home to many bird species. In the afternoon, we will photograph animals arriving to drink at a waterhole next to our hotel. This is perhaps one of the most unforgettable experiences of the expedition.

Overnight at a hotel inside the national park.

Day 5, June 22, 2025 – Etosha National Park
Given that Etosha covers over 22,000 square kilometres, we will spend a second day in the park to maximize our opportunities for photographing different animal species. Etosha has the highest concentration of black rhinos in the world, and we hope to capture some of them as they come to drink at sunset.

Overnight at a hotel inside the national park.

Day 6, June 23, 2025 – Damaraland
After breakfast, we will head to Damaraland to connect with one of Africa’s most beautiful indigenous cultures, the Ovahimba (Himba people). Their red ochre body paint, intricate jewellery, and deeply rooted cultural traditions are still preserved, and we will have the chance to document them with our cameras. The rocky landscape of Damaraland and the minimal light pollution around our hotel will make it an ideal location for astrophotography.

Damaraland is also home to wildlife perfectly adapted to the desert, including giraffes, oryx, kudu, and springbok. We are likely to see some of these animals during our journey.

Overnight in Damaraland.

Day 7, June 24, 2025 – Brandberg
We will visit the Himba community again to photograph their morning activities before heading to Brandberg, our next destination.

Brandberg is Namibia’s highest mountain, standing at 2,573 meters above sea level. In addition to capturing the beautiful landscape, we will be on the lookout for the elusive desert elephant. (We recommend watching the Secrets of the Elephants series on Disney+ for context.)

Overnight at Brandberg.

Day 8, June 25, 2025 – Spitzkoppe
After breakfast, we will head to one of the most spectacular locations we will visit in Namibia. Spitzkoppe is a must-visit for any photographer. Its striking landscape of giant rocks and the natural stone arch provide perfect settings for both daytime and nighttime photography.

We will overnight in a hotel with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 9, June 26, 2025 – Swakopmund
After breakfast, we will drive to Swakopmund, a city on the Atlantic coast. It is Namibia’s first beach resort and one of the best-preserved examples of German colonial architecture in the world. On the way, we will stop at the famous Skeleton Coast, named for the many shipwrecks scattered along this coastline.

In Swakopmund, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the coastal breeze, beautiful sunsets, and delicious cuisine, along with the chance to shop, do laundry, and recharge for the next leg of the journey.

Overnight at a hotel in Swakopmund.

Day 10, June 27, 2025 – Swakopmund
From Swakopmund, we will visit Walvis Bay to photograph thousands of flamingos in the golden light of the setting sun. Walvis Bay is also home to pelicans and seabirds such as terns.

In Swakopmund, we will also have the option to take a buggy ride through the dunes near the city or go on a macro photography tour. These activities are optional.

Day 11, June 28, 2025 – Sossusvlei – Namib Desert
We will depart from Swakopmund to Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert, another unmissable destination in Namibia. This red sand desert is home to the world’s tallest dunes, offering endless photographic possibilities. Ostriches and oryx are often seen amidst the dunes. Without a doubt, you won’t want to leave this place.

Overnight at a hotel within the restricted area, allowing us the chance to photograph the stunning landscape into the night.

Day 12, June 29, 2025 – Sossusvlei – Deadvlei
Today, we will have the opportunity to photograph other locations within Sossusvlei, including Deadvlei, a dry clay lake surrounded by the tallest dunes on Earth and featuring ancient dead trees that have been there for around 700 years. While the trees aren’t petrified, their dark colour comes from constant exposure to the sun. This surreal and striking landscape is featured in almost all references or advertisements for the country.

Overnight at the same hotel inside the park, with another opportunity for night photography.

Day 13, June 30, 2025 – Windhoek
Today, we head back to Windhoek, the capital, where we will spend our final night. Along the way, we will stop to photograph the landscape and take a break.

Farewell dinner.

Rest at the hotel in Windhoek.

Day 14, July 1, 2025 – Windhoek
Breakfast at the hotel.

Hotel-airport transfer.

End of the expedition.

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

• With over 15 years of experience in photographic expeditions and more than 20 as travel photographers, we understand exactly what our clients are looking for when joining our expeditions and workshops.
• We create our own expeditions, organizing every detail and extensively travelling to each location to design itineraries based on our personal experiences.
• We know and evaluate every service we offer. Nothing is improvised.
• We are passionate about what we do and want to ensure that you have the best experience of your life.
• Our itineraries are designed with light in mind, at every hour of the day. This ensures optimal photographic results on every expedition.
• We work closely with reputable local companies, known for their vast experience in every country we visit.
  The best feedback we get for our expeditions comes from satisfied photographers who travel with us and recommend us to their friends and colleagues. That’s the best compliment we could ask for.
• The hotels and camps where we will stay are located in perfect areas to visit places of interest and observe wildlife.
• We are a registered company in England and Wales, based in London. This allows us to meet specific standards and establish benchmarks within the international tourism industry.

As with all our workshops and expeditions, everything is covered from the moment you arrive at Hosea Kutako Airport in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. You only need to focus on developing your audiovisual projects, guided by John Quintero; the rest is in our hands.

The expedition is limited to just 10 participants.

To reserve your spot or for more information, please write to us at info@johnquintero.com or WhatsApp at +44 7984608576.