Desert Explorer - South  

  Duration7 Days

Please note: This itinerary is flexible and can be changed without notice. A detailed, up-to-date dossier itinerary is available to download.

Day 1 – Swakopmund to Sesriem

Leaving behind the charms of Swakopmund we continue our journey to Southern Namibia and the Namib Desert. While bidding a reluctant farewell to the ocean, we make a stop to commemorate our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn this morning before turning east towards the heart of the

desert. This afternoon, we have the privilege of joining a local expert for an enlightening desert excursion. Our local guide will introduce us to the wonders of the desert environment – an amazing introduction to the Namib that is sure to get all your senses ready for the next few days. An early night is advisable as tomorrow will see us up as the dawn breaks, but tonight we spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that the next day holds more adventures among the red sand dunes.

Day 2 – 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 just 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 4×4 transfer into Sossusvlei, here we will spend time on foot visiting the pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight we camp on the doorstep of the dune fields, we’ll empty the red sand from our shoes and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko.

Day 3 – Namib-Naukluft National Park Area

Today is put aside for you to relax and recharge while taking in the landscapes of the desert.  Optional activities such as self-guided walks from camp are available. 

Day 4 – Keetmanshoop

This morning we pack up and turn east and head for Keetmanshoop.  Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as we spend most of the day driving onto our next destination.  Our exploration of the desert concludes this afternoon with a visit to the Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playgrounds, named for the way in which the massive dolerite boulders have been placed on each other- creating rock formations and a series of mazes. Contrary to belief, the quiver tree is not really a tree, but a plant that can grow to between 200 – 300 years old.

Day 5 – Fish River Canyon – Orange River

The Fish River Canyon is the longest river in Namibia and the largest Canyon in Africa.  We will drive to the rim of the Fish River Canyon and have an opportunity to stretch our legs with a gentle walk along the rim of the canyon, before we head further south and make our way to the Orange River, our final stop in Namibia.   Our last night in Namibia is spent on the banks of the Orange River and the best way to experience the Orange River is by canoe. This afternoon you will have the opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip on the river.

Day 6 – Orange River – Cederberg

A final border crossing sees us enter South Africa this morning as we travel through the desert landscapes of Namaqualand on our way to the Cederberg region. 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.  Tonight we enjoy a traditional meal and celebrate the many memories we have made.

Day 7 – Cederberg – Cape Town

The Cederberg 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.  The Cederberg region is known for its mountain fynbos and spectacular views of the rugged Cedarberg Mountains. Nearing Cape Town, you will notice Table Mountain appear in the distance and we will stop to look at Table Mountain from across Table Bay.  Your tour ends upon arrival in Cape Town city centre.