Namibia to Cape Town
from £3,000
/per person
- Recommended 20-24 Days
Where this route takes you
Discover a land of towering red dunes, wild coastlines, desert canyons, vibrant wildlife, and city energy. This overlanding route takes you from Namibia’s ancient landscapes to the southern tip of Africa – a journey combining epic nature with unforgettable adventure.
From Windhoek to Etosha National Park, through the raw beauty of Damaraland and the haunting Skeleton Coast. Camp beneath the red rocks of Spitzkoppe, then carve through the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei and the surreal Deadvlei pan.
Explore seaside vibes in Swakopmund, hike through Naukluft, and drive the red roads of the Namtib Biosphere. Visit the ghost town of Kolmanskop, stand at the edge of Fish River Canyon, and stop off at the flower-covered havens of Springbok and Clanwilliam, where history meets dramatic scenery.
Along the way, expect stargazing like nowhere else, dramatic sunrises, and the kind of sandy open-road solitude that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Finish with beach time in Langebaan, before diving into everything Cape Town offers – mountains, markets, vineyards, coastline and memories to last a lifetime.
| Here, you’ll pick up your fully equipped 4x4 overlanding vehicle, stocked with everything you’ll need for the journey ahead, from camping gear to cooking equipment. After a quick handover and orientation, settle in with an overnight stay in Namibia’s laid back capital. It’s the perfect opportunity to rest up and grab any last minute supplies. In the evening, head to one of Windhoek’s famous beer gardens or steakhouses to enjoy a local brew and a hearty Namibian meal before your adventure kicks off. |  |
| Your first major stop will be Etosha National Park, one of Namibia’s most iconic wildlife destinations and home to the Big Five along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and hundreds of bird species. The park’s vast salt pan and scattered waterholes make for incredible game viewing opportunities, whether you’re on a self-drive safari or simply relaxing at a waterhole near camp as the animals come to you. We recommend spending at least three days and two nights here to truly appreciate the park’s size and diversity. With multiple camps and well-marked roads, Etosha is perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned overlanders. |  |
| Next, you’ll make your way through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Damaraland, a rugged and striking region named after the local Damara people. This area is the definition of wild, untamed Africa. Endless rocky outcrops, open plains, and dramatic mountain backdrops that change colour with the light. Damaraland is also rich in history and culture, with ancient Bushmen rock paintings and engravings at sites like Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep an eye out for desert-adapted elephants and other wildlife that roam the dry riverbeds. It’s the perfect place to slow down, explore, and soak up the raw beauty of Namibia. |  |
| Head for the ocean and follow the dunes as you make your way along the Skeleton Coast. This remote stretch of coastline gets its name from the many shipwrecks that still lie scattered along its shores, a reminder of the treacherous waters that claimed them. The drive is an adventure in itself, with towering dunes on one side and the crashing Atlantic on the other. Take your time to stop at the seal colonies along the way, where thousands of Cape fur seals gather, and enjoy the dramatic, otherworldly scenery that makes this one of Namibia’s most unique regions. |  |
| One of our favourite spots in southern Africa, this striking collection of red rock formations rises dramatically from the desert and is sometimes called the Matterhorn of Namibia. The scenery here feels otherworldly, with rugged peaks and towering cliffs creating a perfect backdrop for photography and exploration. Set up camp at the foot of one of the many climbable rock formations and wake up early to watch the sunrise over the desert with your morning coffee. It is a peaceful, unforgettable way to start the day surrounded by some of Namibia’s most iconic landscapes. |  |
| Where the dunes meet the ocean, Swakopmund offers a welcome change of pace after exploring the wilds of Namibia. This lively seaside town is full of cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the local atmosphere. Known as the adventure capital of the region, it also offers plenty of adrenaline-filled activities. You can race over the nearby dunes on a quad bike, go sandboarding, or even take a tandem skydive above the stunning coastline for incredible views. Swakopmund is the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure before continuing your journey through Namibia. |  |
| After leaving Swakopmund, make a stop to observe a colony of flamingos and take a short break in the settlement of Solitaire and it's famous bakery. From there, continue on to Naukluft National Park, a dramatic landscape of rocky canyons and rugged mountains. Explore the park’s hiking trails, where you can reach natural pools to cool off and keep an eye out for local wildlife such as baboons and various antelope species. The combination of striking scenery, accessible hikes, and abundant wildlife makes Naukluft a memorable part of your journey through Namibia. |  |
| The striking scenery of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert is what many people imagine when they think of Namibia. Towering red dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, making it almost impossible not to stop every few minutes for a photo. At the end of the road lies the famous Deadvlei pan, with its iconic white clay floor dotted with ancient, dead camelthorn trees. From here, you can admire Big Daddy, one of the world’s tallest dunes, either from the base among the legendary trees or by taking on the challenge of climbing to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding desert. |  |
| Possibly our favourite road in Namibia, and maybe even in all of Africa. Namibia is full of striking red, sandy tracks, but this route through the Biosphere Reserve feels particularly special. The combination of rolling dunes, rugged mountains, and wide-open landscapes makes every kilometre memorable. Take your time to enjoy the drive, stopping along the way to take in the views and snap a few photos. Stay overnight in one of the campsites or lodges nestled within this incredible scenery to fully soak up the atmosphere and experience the quiet beauty of Namibia’s wilderness. |  |
You’ll spend the night at one of our favourite camps in the region. Surrounded by classic Namibian scenery, the well-appointed campsite is the perfect place to relax after a day on the road. Enjoy a cold local beer as the sun starts to dip, and for those who like a bit of adventure, take a short hike up the nearby rocks to watch the sunset. Early risers can get an equally spectacular view at sunrise, when the desert colours shift and the landscape comes alive with light and shadow. |  |
| Famed as the world’s second largest canyon, this spectacular natural wonder is just a short drive from your campsite. Accessible via well-maintained gravel roads, the canyon offers several viewing points along the rim, each providing breathtaking perspectives of the deep valleys and rugged cliffs below. While it may not be as famous as the Grand Canyon, it is no less impressive, and the quieter setting allows you to truly take in the scale and beauty of the landscape. Spend time walking along the edge, capturing photos, and soaking up one of Namibia’s most unforgettable sights. |  |
| Nestled in a region often called the ‘Garden of the Gods’, this charming town makes a perfect stop while exploring Namaqualand. The area is famous for its spectacular wildflower displays in season, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural history. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from hiking and scenic drives to discovering local heritage sites. Serving as a hub in the heart of the Northern Cape, the town offers a chance to rest, enjoy local cuisine, and soak up the unique atmosphere before continuing your journey through one of South Africa’s most striking regions. |  |
| Set among the Cederberg Mountains, this is one of South Africa’s oldest towns, steeped in history and culture. The area is famous for rooibos tea, ancient rock art, and stunning hiking trails that wind through dramatic mountain landscapes. Take time to explore the town’s historic streets, visit a local wine cellar, or venture into the surrounding Cape Floristic Region to see unique fynbos vegetation. With its mix of heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure, this town offers a memorable stop for travellers looking to experience the best of the Cederberg region. |  |
| After your epic desert adventure, the pristine beaches and turquoise lagoon of Langebaan offer the perfect place to relax and unwind. This charming west coast town is ideal for soaking up the sun, strolling along the shoreline, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. For those seeking more action, Langebaan is also a playground for adventure enthusiasts, with opportunities for kitesurfing, stand-up paddling, and kayaking in the calm waters of the lagoon. Whether you want to take it easy or get your adrenaline fix, Langebaan is the perfect stop to recharge before continuing your journey. |  |
This bustling metropolis offers all the indulgences you could want from a modern city including countless dining options, vibrant night life and world class sport. What makes Cape Town unique is that it offers all of this amongst some of the most stunning nature and scenery to be found anywhere. Table Mountain, Lions Head, Camps Bay, Table View, Whale Watching, Penguin colonies... we could go on forever! Here, you’ll return your vehicle and depart from Cape Town’s well-connected international airport. Or, keep the adventure going with a journey through the Cape Winelands, then follow the legendary Garden Route to experience yet another unforgettable side of Africa! |  |
Included
- All accommodation
- Specialist vehicle hire
- Insurance for 2 drivers
- Camping and off-roading equipment
- Expert advice and support before and during your trip
- Comprehensive itinerary document including detailed route maps and must see recommendations.
Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Fuel
-
Personal travel insurance
- Food and drinks (unless specified at accomodation)
