Addition of six new vehicles; Introduces hybrid transfer vehicles in Windhoek.
The response to Ultimate Safaris’ offering of self-drive rental vehicles to its guests arriving in Namibia for the wildlife experience of their lives has been so successful that six more Toyotas are making their debut in the fleet. Despite problems in the supply chain for the procurement of its self-drive Toyotas, Ultimate Safaris has overcome this and responded to the positive demand for its new self-drive option of offering no-fuss freedom for adventurous and independent travellers. The six new vehicles are ready for uncomplicated and user-friendly rental for guests who want to experience the fragile wilderness.
This is in addition to the continuing efforts by the multiple award-winning conservation travel company to ensure its operations stay sustainable on all levels – the fundamental basis on which it continues to grow and thrive.
The new move to transition Ultimate Safaris’ transfer vehicles based in the capital Windhoek to hybrid vehicles has started ahead of the new year. The first luxury Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid vehicle, named 2022 Car of the Year by the South African Guild of Mobility journalists, has just been delivered. These hybrid vehicles will be used to transfer guests around Windhoek and for transfers to the various local airports, continuing the Ultimate Safaris journey to minimise negative environmental impacts and reduce carbon emissions.
Now, more than ever, discerning travellers will be able to enjoy a seamless drive experience from the start, in tune with Ultimate Safaris’ aim of creating exclusive experiences through insider knowledge and a team that can deliver memorable and authentic moments in the desert. Its goal is to provide safaris that combine educational, explorative, fun, and insightful elements proves life enriching. They benefit both local people and places as well as guests while celebrating the majesty of Africa.
Here are some of the key features of the new extended self-drive rental vehicle fleet:
- All vehicles are automatic transmission and are equipped for standard self-drive safaris, but not for camping safaris.
- Ultimate Safaris will only run 2.4 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4×4 (ideal for 2–4 passengers) and 2.4 Toyota Fortuner 4×4 vehicles (ideal for 2–3 passengers). These vehicles have the best track record for self-drive safaris in Namibia and are ideally suited to the local landscape and conditions.
- There will be one single daily rate regardless of the vehicle type and duration of rental – but high and low season rates will apply.
- All rental rates are inclusive of zero excess insurance which covers tyre and windscreen damage, but this does not cover undercarriage or wind sandblasting damage which is specifically excluded. An additional driver fee and additional spare wheels are included at no extra cost.
- Rental vehicles will be delivered and handed over at Windhoek accommodation establishments to ensure a stress-free experience, and this will normally be combined with a detailed safari briefing. Vehicles will be collected from the venue of the last night’s stay, but they can also be returned to the airport at no extra charge if necessary.
- One-way delivery fees to other areas within Namibia as well as other extras such as child booster seats and GPS are provided if required.
To make the self-drive option even more appealing, the following extras have also been included:
- All vehicles are fitted with an electric Engel fridge which is connected to the ignition.
- All vehicle seats are fitted with comfortable Melville & Moon seat covers which are easily washable.
- Additionally, second, spare wheels are fitted in a way that ensures maximum space for packing.
- All vehicles have free in-vehicle WiFi which functions in all areas where there is 3G+. This is already widely available in many parts of mainstream Namibia, and the network is growing rapidly.
- Emergency medical evacuation insurance is included in all rentals, and this will cover the costs of suitable transportation to a private hospital should that become necessary.
Since its founding in 2008 Ultimate Safaris has pioneered new ways to experience the awe-inspiring natural world of Namibia through extensive conservation initiatives, seamless personal service, exceptional leadership, and an unwavering commitment to local communities. Now it has revved up its reputation for personal attention to ensure guests no longer face queues for rental vehicles at the airport or having to deal with the varied extra charge options when using different vehicle hire companies.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
