Cape Town to Windhoek Self-Drive Tour – 23 Days

Welcome to the start of your self-drive adventure! Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you'll be greeted by our friendly car hire representative, who will assist you with the handover of your rental vehicle. After a thorough introduction to the vehicle, you'll be ready to embark on your journey.

From the airport, make your way to your comfortable accommodation in Cape Town. Once you've checked in, take the rest of the day to unwind and acclimatize. Whether you choose to relax in your room, explore the nearby surroundings, or take a leisurely stroll, this time is yours to ease into the rhythm of the Mother City.

Your second day in Cape Town is brimming with exciting possibilities. Start with a ride on the iconic hop-on hop-off bus, which offers a convenient way to explore the city's top attractions. Stop by the vibrant V&A Waterfront, where you can indulge in shopping, dining, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. If the weather is clear, don’t miss the chance to ascend Table Mountain by cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. For a more cultural experience, visit the historic Robben Island or take a scenic drive along the stunning coastline to Cape Point. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or cultural exploration, Cape Town has something for everyone.

On your third day, we recommend a delightful escape to the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, renowned for its world-class wineries and stunning landscapes. Hop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram, a unique and scenic way to explore the region’s vineyards while indulging in some of South Africa’s finest wines. Along the way, be sure to visit the historic Boschendal estate, known for its award-winning wines and serene picnic area. Haute Cabrière offers exceptional Cap Classique paired with breathtaking views, while La Motte combines fine wines with art and culture. Don’t miss the elegant Grande Provence, with its rich heritage and beautiful gardens, or Babylonstoren, where you can savour organic wines and explore the enchanting gardens. This day is all about savoring the flavors and enjoying the relaxed pace of the Cape Winelands.

Today, your adventure takes you north as you begin your journey toward Namibia. After a hearty breakfast, you'll hit the road, winding through some of South Africa’s most dramatic landscapes. Your destination for the night is the charming town of Clanwilliam, nestled at the foot of the majestic Cederberg Mountains.

As you arrive in Clanwilliam, you'll find yourself in one of the country’s oldest and most picturesque towns, famous for its rooibos tea plantations and rich history. Spend the afternoon exploring the area—perhaps take a scenic drive through the Cederberg, known for its rugged beauty, ancient rock art, and unique flora. If you're in the mood for something more relaxed, stroll through the town, visit a local tea farm, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings at your accommodation.

Leaving the scenic Cederberg region behind, you'll venture further north, heading toward the Namibia/South Africa border. As the terrain shifts from rolling mountains to vast, open expanses, you’ll get a true sense of the rugged wilderness that lies ahead. Your destination tonight is one of the peaceful towns close to the border, offering a tranquil setting to rest before you cross into Namibia tomorrow.

This evening, take the time to unwind, perhaps with a leisurely dinner as you savor the anticipation of what’s to come.

The next leg of your journey will lead you to the awe-inspiring Fish River Canyon, so tonight is all about relaxing and recharging for the adventures that await.

Fish River Canyon, located in southern Namibia, is the second-largest canyon in the world and a breathtaking natural wonder. Carved over millions of years by the Fish River, this dramatic landscape stretches for 160 kilometers, reaching depths of up to 550 meters. Visitors are captivated by its rugged beauty, with towering cliffs, deep gorges, and sweeping vistas that seem to stretch endlessly. The canyon is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers, offering a unique glimpse into Namibia's ancient geological history and stunning desert scenery.

After visiting Fish River Canyon, you'll drive north to Aus, a quaint town in southern Namibia. The route offers stunning desert scenery and dramatic landscapes. Aus is a great base for exploring nearby attractions, including the Namib Desert and the Wild Horses of the Namib, offering a peaceful retreat amid striking desert vistas.

On your second day in Aus, visit Kolmanskop, an abandoned diamond mining town near Luderitz. This ghost town, frozen in time, features sand-filled interiors and well-preserved buildings, offering a glimpse into its once-bustling past. Guided tours reveal the town's history and provide a unique, eerie experience of its former opulence.
En-route you can stop and photograph the wild desert horses of Aus.

From Aus, you'll head toward the Tiras Mountains, a stunning region in southwestern Namibia. This area is renowned for its dramatic, rugged landscapes, with towering mountain peaks, deep valleys, and expansive desert plains creating a striking contrast.

The Tiras Mountains are part of the Namib Desert and offer breathtaking scenery that includes ancient geological formations and unique flora adapted to the arid environment. The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and photography.

Next, you will embark on your self-drive safari to Sossusvlei, a breathtaking salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red dunes in the southern Namib Desert, within the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

Rise early to watch the sunrise over the Namib Desert. Make your way to Sossusvlei, a breathtaking salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red dunes in the southern Namib Desert, within the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

Your adventure continues, taking you to the charming coastal town of Swakopmund, a gem on Namibia's Atlantic coast. Named after the Swakop River, Swakopmund (German for “Mouth of the Swakop”) is a delightful blend of German colonial architecture, seaside charm, and desert landscapes.

On your way to Swakopmund, stop over at Solitaire, a quaint settlement in the Khomas Region near the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Despite its small size, Solitaire is a vital pit stop with the only gasoline station, post office, bakery, and general dealer between the dunes of Sossusvlei and the coast at Walvis Bay. Enjoy a freshly baked apple pie from the renowned Desert Bakery and soak in the quirky charm of this desert oasis.
Continue your drive through captivating landscapes, transitioning from arid desert to the refreshing coastal breeze of Swakopmund, where adventure and relaxation await.

On your second day in Swakopmund, dive into an array of exhilarating activities. Begin with a refreshing seal kayaking tour, where you'll paddle alongside playful seals in the Atlantic. For spectacular landscapes, take a 4x4 tour to Sandwich Harbour, exploring the dramatic dunes and wetlands. If you're up for more excitement, go quad biking or sand-boarding on the towering dunes. For an extra dose of adrenaline, consider a scenic flight over the desert or a tandem parachuting experience. Whether you seek adventure or breathtaking views, Swakopmund promises an unforgettable day of exploration.

Get an early start for your journey to Damaraland. From Swakopmund, head north along the iconic Skeleton Coast. Consider a detour to the Cape Cross seal colony if you haven't yet visited the seals in Swakopmund. Continue your drive to Twyfelfontein, passing by Brandberg Mountain, Namibia’s highest peak. Take a break and hike to the White Lady rock painting, a fascinating detour that takes about two hours. Once in Twyfelfontein, explore the famous rock engravings, a must-see. Nearby attractions include the Petrified Forest, Organ Pipes, and Burnt Mountain, all offering unique sights. For the best experience, aim to view this stunning landscape as the sun sets, casting a magical glow over Damaraland.

Embark on an unforgettable Elephant Tracking adventure in Damaraland. Led by experienced trackers, guests can expect an exciting journey through rugged landscapes in search of desert-adapted elephants. Learn about their unique behaviors and survival strategies in this harsh environment as you get closer to these magnificent creatures. Witnessing the resilience and beauty of Namibia's desert elephants up close offers a rare and awe-inspiring experience.

As you continue your self-drive safari from Damaraland to Etosha National Park, prepare for an extraordinary adventure deep in Namibia's wilderness.

Inside the park, you'll encounter expansive plains that stretch endlessly, dotted with lively waterholes. Watch for herds of graceful antelopes, majestic giraffes browsing acacia trees, and the occasional stealthy predator moving through the bush.

You have the entire day to explore the park on self-drive game drives. If you’d like a break from driving, you can either pre-book or arrange a guided game drive on site.

As you continue your self-drive safari from Etosha to the Waterberg Plateau area, you'll enter a landscape of stunning contrasts and diverse ecosystems. The journey offers a blend of thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and immersive cultural experiences.
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings. The Waterberg Plateau area is home to a variety of species, including rhinos, buffaloes, and antelopes. Take advantage of the numerous viewpoints and lookout points to scan the horizon for any signs of movement.

While staying in the Waterberg Plateau area in Namibia, guests can indulge in a variety of activities. They can embark on guided nature walks or hikes to explore the stunning surroundings and spot wildlife such as antelopes, birds, and even the elusive leopard. Cultural experiences are also abundant, with opportunities to visit nearby communities and learn about their way of life and traditions. For those seeking adventure, activities like mountain biking and horseback riding offer thrilling ways to explore the area's diverse landscapes. Additionally, guests can enjoy scenic drives, bird-watching, and picnics amidst the natural beauty of the plateau.

On your final night in Windhoek, take the opportunity to savor a memorable dinner at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants. Windhoek boasts a diverse dining scene, ranging from cozy bistros to upscale establishments offering a variety of cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Namibian dishes, fresh seafood, or international flavors, you'll find plenty of options to suit your taste.

Are you a culture vulture? Then consider embarking on a Windhoek city and township tour to gain insight into the local culture and history.
Additionally, make time for some souvenir shopping at the local craft market and wood carvers market, where you can pick up unique mementos of your Namibian adventure.

Please return your trusty rental vehicle by 16:00 to allow sufficient time for check-in and airport transfer.
We’ll arrange a transfer for you 2 hours before your departure flight, ensuring a smooth journey home.