Namibian Adventure. From Cape Town to Windhoek

Itinerary: 

Day 1. South Africa – Cederberg Region
Leaving Cape Town we make a last stop for a look back at Table Mountain from across Table Bay. No road trip is complete without a stop at a traditional “Padstal”, these small farm stalls dot the byways of South Africa and offer a variety of homemade treats and bakes. The Cedarberg region not only boasts spectacular mountains and orange farms, but it is also the home of the Rooibos bush. Indigenous to the mountain slopes of the Cedarberg, this herbal beverage has earned an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to regular tea. A dinner at our overnight stop offers an opportunity for us to get acquainted while enjoying some South African hospitality. -/-/D

Day 2. Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River
Namaqualand presents us with our first experience of the Desert vistas that will accompany us in the days ahead. We continue our journey north and after a short stop for supplies in Springbok, we travel to our camp on the banks of the Orange River. If you are fortunate enough to be travelling in the spring months (July to September) you may encounter the wild flowers that have made this region famous. No matter the time of year though, the strange desert vistas offer a unique backdrop to this day’s travel. B/L/D

Day 3. Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River 
While the Orange River was named after the Dutch Royal House, in recent times it has been referred to by its original name of Gariep, which simply means “river” in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language. Beginning its journey in the mountains of Lesotho, the Orange River is the longest river in South Africa and offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes along its banks. The best way to experience the river is by getting out on the water and this morning we have the opportunity to join an optional canoe trip on the river. Around midday (after lunch) we depart the Orange River and head inland to our overnight stop. At Ais Ais, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the mineral and sulphur rich hot springs. B/L/D

Pre-Bookable Optional: Orange River Canoe Trip

Day 4. Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground, Namib-Naukluft National Park
Our morning will be spent meandering through the Quiver Tree Forest and The Giants Playground – named for the way in which the massive dolerite boulders have been placed on each other - creating rock formations and a series of mazes. Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as we venture deeper into the Namib Desert. Our destination is the dune fields that cover the western reaches of the desert. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands offer us an insight into the vastness of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes of the west the slowly changing landscapes represents the many faces of this desert country.  B/L/D

Day 5. Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park
Today we will rise early for our drive to the Namib-Naukluft National Park. We will enter the park after sunrise and travel through to the famous Dune 45. A brisk climb up Dune 45 offers us the perfect vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert. Once satisfied we descend this famous dune and enjoy a hearty breakfast before catching a 4x4 transfer into Sossusvlei, here we will spend time on foot visiting the pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Our desert exploration concludes with a visit to the Sesriem Canyon. Tonight we empty the red sand from our shoes and spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that we have spent a full-day enjoying the wonders of this harsh land. B/L/D

Day 6. Swakopmund
Our final day in the desert begins with a fascinating desert excursion led by a local expert, for an enlightening desert excursion. As you bid farewell to the breathtaking Namib, we pause at the Tropic of Capricorn for a memorable photo opportunity. Having taken in the wonders of the Namib Desert we turn west and head to our next destination, the bustling coastal town of Swakopmund where adventure awaits along with a welcome touch of civilization. Upon arriving in Swakopmund, we will be presented with the opportunity to book any number of thrilling adventures available. Tonight we’ll enjoy an optional dinner out at a local restaurant. B/L/-

Day 7. Swakopmund
While for many it is the adrenaline fuelled adventures that will grab their attention, Swakopmund offers all that and more. Take the opportunity today to explore the town at your leisure, as there are a number of attractions for every taste. Not to be missed is the selection of famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a delightful range of German inspired treats. Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a small city and is the perfect launching pad for the journey through the northern reaches of the land. B/-/-

Pre-Bookable Optionals: Swakopmund Quadbiking / Dolphin Catamaran Cruise / Living Dunes Tour / Sandwich Harbour Dune Drive / Skeleton Coast Cape Cross / Spitzkoppe Adventure Drive (min numbers may apply to activities)

Day 8. Swakopmund to Brandberg
Our exploration of the desert continues with a trip up north, where the hot desert sands meet the cold waves of the Atlantic Ocean. We’ll stop at seaside holiday town of Wlotskabaken for a photo opportunity before heading to the Lichen Fields for a viewing and talk by your guide on the Lichen Colonies. We then turn our attention to The Brandberg (Burning Mountains), which are regarded as the highest in Namibia and home to the famous White Lady, one of more than 45,000 rock paintings in the area. We will make the ±2-hour return hike to visit the painting that is said to be around 2,000 years old. (Please be advised that this activity will take place either this evening or tomorrow morning early. The hike does traverse rough terrain along the gorge of the normally dry Tsisab River). B/L/D

Day 9. Brandberg to Etosha National Park Area
With vast salt pans, savanna and woodland, Etosha is one of Africa's finest game parks. At 18 000 sq km, it is one of the biggest Parks in Southern Africa. Etosha means “great white area”, which refers to the large dried pan in the middle of the Park. We will prepare ourselves for our visit into the park the following day. B/L/D

Day 10. Etosha National Park
Etosha allows for a full day to continue our exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the suspense before that special sighting is the motivation that keeps our eyes wide open. We explore the edges of the Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occur in the park. B/L/D

Pre-Bookable Optional Full day 4x4 safari in Etosha National Park (the truck drive will be forfeited) (min numbers may apply to activities)

Day 11. Windhoek
This morning is free for you to relax around camp. After lunch, you will be met at camp by a representative who will be transferring you to Windhoek. The shuttle service is expected to take between 4 – 5 hours. The shuttle service is offered exclusively to our travellers and the number of travellers is dependant on the number of guests booked. Sit back, relax and enjoy your drive to Namibia’s capital, Windhoek. Your tour will end upon arrival in the city in the late afternoon. B/L/-