Tour Overview
On this 14 day camping adventure, discover the breathtaking landscapes of the South, where rugged canyons, vast deserts, and rocky plateaus await. Under a canopy of clear skies and stars that seem almost within reach, we invite you to embark on this unforgettable adventure with us. Combine this with spotting wildlife, diving into local culture, and soaking up Namibia's stunning scenery. With tales from your local guide and a one-of-a-kind camping experience, you will walk away with amazing memories of this incredible place.
Departs: Sunday mornings from Windhoek
Returns: Saturday afternoon in Windhoek
Sesriem - Sossusvlei - Aus - Lüderitz - Namib - Ai-Ais - Orange River - Kalahari Namibia - Quiver Tree Forest - Windhoek - Central Namibia - Spitzkoppe - Okahandja - Swakopmund - Twyfelfontein - Etosha West - Etosha South - Onguma Game Reserve - Etosha East
Tour Highlights
✔ Gamsberg Pass, Namib Naukluft Park
✔ 4x4 Sossusvlei Excursion & Dune 45
✔ Aus & Desert Horses
✔ Kolmanskop, Lüderitz
✔ Rosh Pinah, Ai-Ais Hot Springs
✔ Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground
✔ Rehoboth
✔ Windhoek
✔ Spitzkoppe / Erongo Mountains
✔ Swakopmund
✔ Damaraland, Rockengravings Twyfelfontein
✔ Damara Living Museum
✔ Etosha West, Okaukuejo, Halali, Namutoni
✔ Himba Village
✔ Game Drives for 2 full Days
✔ Woodcarving Art
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Sesriem
Accommodation: Sesriem Campsite o/s Meals: Light Lunch & Dinner Distance: 310 km
A short drive through the city as we head towards Gamsberg, a table-topped mountain which, on clear days, offers some stunning views of the distant Naukluft Mountains, the area we will be exploring over the next few days. Our drive takes us through farmland and reserves, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn and descending the Remhoogte or Spreetshoogte Pass - the escarpment drops down to meet the desert floor as we arrive at our campsite in the Sesriem area.
This enchanting spot is perfect for sundowners, with views of the Naukluft Mountains and part of the dune belt. As you sit by a crackling fire tonight, look up to the starry sky—truly soul-nourishing! Rest well, as tomorrow begins very early.
Our Campsite is situated close to the southern end of the quiet and lush Naukluft Mountains within the Namib-Naukluft National Park in Namibia. Facilities include private bathrooms, kitchenettes, barbecue sites, a bar, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
Collection time: 08h00 – 08h30
Day 2: Sesriem Campsite
Accommodation: Sesriem Campsite o/s Meals: Light Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 120 km
The world-renowned Naukluft area is one of our most diverse conservation zones, with a small section featured here as Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei. This region attracts many international tourists and offers a magical experience of grandeur and solitude, with some of the world's highest dunes. It’s a photographer's paradise, especially in the early morning when the light shifts through hues from apricot to red. Dead Vlei is an ideal spot to witness this spectacle, where dunes descend to a white clay pan dotted with the skeletons of ancient camelthorn trees.
Mid-morning as the temperatures rise we travel back to camp where we can relax at the swimming pool. During late afternoon we'll take a hike down into the Sesriem Canyon. We're spoiled with another night of tranquillity and star gazing.
Dune 45 is renowned for its impressive height of about 80 meters (approximately 262 feet) and its striking red-orange colour, which results from iron oxide in the sand. It is easily accessible and draws many tourists and photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the lighting accentuates its remarkable shapes and colors. This dune is among the most photographed spots in Namibia and is ideal for climbing.
Located within the stunning Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is famous for its towering red sand dunes. The vivid blue skies create a stunning contrast with these colossal dunes, making it one of Africa's most spectacular natural sites and a favourite among photographers. The area boasts dunes nearly 400 meters tall, ranking among the tallest in the world, which are especially vibrant during sunrise and sunset. Sossusvlei also hosts diverse desert wildlife such as oryx, springbok, ostriches, and various reptiles, which can be observed en route to the Vlei. For the adventurous, climbing 'Big Daddy', one of the tallest dunes, and exploring Deadvlei- a striking white claypan filled with ancient trees- are popular activities. The trees, including some around 900 years old, are protected and should not be disturbed.
Sesriem Canyon is a striking natural feature in the heart of the Namib Desert, shaped over millions of years by the Tsauchab River through erosion. The name Sesriem derives from the Afrikaans and Dutch words for six leather straps, used by early pioneers to extract water from the canyon's deep pools. Besides its geological significance, Sesriem Canyon is home to unique desert plants and animals, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring Namibia's surreal landscapes.
Locations: Dune 45, Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei, Sesriem Canyon.
Day 3: Desert Horse, Campsite near Aus
Accommodation: Klein-Aus Vista Desert Horse Campsite o/s Meals: Full Board
Distance: 380 km
Some view the route we're taking today as one of the most scenic in the south. It's all gravel road driving as we head south through the NamibRand Nature Reserve, traversing rolling desert landscapes. Small towns are rare in this region, resulting in a sparse landscape that still supports wildlife.
Our campsite for the next two nights is enchanting, featuring towering camelthorn trees, spacious open land, and several hiking trails. There's also a lookout point where you can watch an unforgettable sunset!
Day 4: Aus – Lüderitz
Accommodation: Klein-Aus Vista Desert Horse Campsite o/s Meals: Full Board
Distance: 240 km
Diamonds and Wild Horses! We'll spend most of the day away from our campsite as we travel to the coastal town of Lüderitz, which retains a quiet, old-world charm. This town has survived the frenzy of the diamond rush. In the Forbidden Zone (Sperrgebiet), you'll see the ghost town of Kolmanskop, once one of Namibia's wealthiest communities. It was abandoned for many years and is now slowly being reclaimed by the Namib Desert. The dilapidated structures of this once-opulent small town emerge from the shifting sands. Kolmanskop stands as a testament to an era when diamonds were so abundant that they could be found lying freely in the desert. It's a fantastic location for photography, offering a truly unique scene.
On our way back to Aus, we'll stop at Garub. Garub Desert Horses inhabit the lonely eastern edge of the Namib Desert, where they have effectively adapted to the harsh environment and dry terrain that meet all their needs. Research has demonstrated that these horses play an essential role in the desert ecosystem and have made their home in Garub.
Camping in the Fishriver Area, Ai-Ais
Accommodation: Camping at Ai-Ais o/s Meals: Full Board Distance: 340 km
Travel to the mining town of Rosh Pinah and then proceed to the Orange River. We will pass through the Ai Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, heading upstream on a very scenic route with no towns or settlements along this part of the river. The Orange River forms part of the border between South Africa and Namibia, with its basin extending into Namibia and northern Botswana. Winding through one of Southern Africa’s most rugged environments, the river brings life to a stunning landscape.
Over millions of years, the Orange River has deposited diamonds along Namibia's coast, creating the famous diamond dunes by washing diamonds downstream from Kimberly. We'll arrive at our campsite in the late afternoon, either at Ai-Ais or Hobas.
Day 6: Fishriver Canyon
Accommodation: Campsite in the Kalahari o/s Meals: Full Board Distance: 472 km
Sunrise at the Fish River Canyon! A visit will be made to the viewpoint on the northern end; this is probably the most photographed area of the Canyon with its awe-inspiring vistas—nothing to impede your view as far as the eye can see. Renowned as one of the largest canyons globally, it spans roughly 160 kilometres (100 miles) in length, with widths reaching up to 27 kilometres (17 miles) and depths plunging to 550 metres (1,800 feet). This magnificent canyon was shaped approximately 500 million years ago, likely as a result of various geological processes, including tectonic movements and erosion. Afterwards, we are on our way to a remarkable destination, the Kalahari, known for its striking red sands and expansive grassy plains. While it may not have the same fame as the Namib Desert, the breathtaking beauty of the sunset here makes it an experience you won't want to miss.
But before we reach our final destination, another incredible sight offers us excellent opportunities for stunning photographs. The Giant's playground derives its name from the appearance that the enormous dolerite boulders have been deliberately stacked by a giant's hand. The way these boulders are arranged forms intriguing rock structures and maze like patterns, which can easily cause disorientation if you're not cautious.
These tall, photogenic trees near the arid terrain of Keetmanshoop grow up to eight metres and display a unique dichotomous branching pattern, forming a distinctive candelabra-like shape. As slow-growing specimens, some of these trees are estimated to be between 200 and 300 years old. They thrive in the harsh climate by storing water in their thick trunks and fleshy leaves. Protected as a national monument in Namibia, the Quiver Tree Forest holds ecological and cultural importance. Its smooth grey bark and fibrous wood were historically used by the San people for making quivers.
Day 7: Urban Camp, Windhoek
Accommodation: Urban Camp o/s Meals: Breakfast & Light Lunch Distance: 280 km
A leisurely morning as we wind our way through the Kalahari region via Rehoboth to the city of Windhoek, where we arrive early in the afternoon.
Rehoboth, situated in Hardap, Namibia, approximately 90 kilometres south of Windhoek, is encircled by camel thorn, sweet-thorn, and candle-pod acacia trees, and features several natural hot springs. The region is celebrated for its stunning natural scenery and cultural heritage - the ancient Baster community, who migrated across the river to establish themselves here in 1870, possess a rich and fascinating history.
Day 8: Spitzkoppe Campsites
Accommodation: Spitzkoppe Campsites o/s Meals: Full Board Distance: 280 km
Depart from Windhoek and head towards Spitzkoppe, a striking granite mountain often called the "Matterhorn of Namibia." Just north of Windhoek, in Namibia's Otjozondjupa region, is the lively city of Okahandja, which serves as the area's main commercial hub and a key cultural centre for the Herero community. The name ‘Okahandja' means 'The place where two rivers flow into each other to form one wide river.' These seasonal rivers are the Okamita and Okakango. Known as Namibia's ‘Garden Town, ' Okahandja is rich in cultural heritage and home to many historical sites.
We will take a break for lunch at a scenic viewpoint along the way.
Arrive at Spitzkoppe and set up camp among the towering boulders and stunning scenery. Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of Namibia's Namib Desert, Spitzkoppe stands proudly between Usakos and Swakopmund. This remarkable cluster of granite peaks is one of Namibia's most iconic and striking sights. The stark, rugged landscape and impressive rock formations provide a perfect backdrop.
Take a guided hike to view ancient rock engravings and the famous Bushman paintings in the area. Gather around the campfire for dinner, where your guide will share captivating stories about the San people’s history and their connection to the land. Learn about the stars above and their significance in local culture.
Collection time: 08h00 – 08h30
Day 9: Spitzkoppe, Swakopmund
Accommodation: Prost Hotel Swakopmund o/s Meals: Breakfast & Light Lunch
Distance: 162 km
Breakfast at the campsite and enjoy the breath-taking sunrise over Spitzkoppe. Depart and head towards Swakopmund, a charming coastal town. Arrive in Swakopmund, check into your accommodation at the coast. Free time for optional activities like sandboarding, quad biking, or visiting the Swakopmund Museum.
Day 10: Madisa Campsite, Twyfelfontein
Accommodation: Madisa Campsite o/s Meals: Breakfast & Light Lunch
Distance: 280 km
Set in the Kunene Region of northwestern Namibia, Twyfelfontein is a spectacularly scenic area, featuring one of the largest and most important concentrations of rock art in Africa. The name ‘Twyfelfontein’ translates to ‘Fountain of Doubt’, which refers to the perennial spring situated in the impressive Huab Valley flanked by the slopes of a sandstone table mountain. It was this spring that attracted Stone Age hunters over six thousand years ago, and it was during this time that the extensive group of rock engravings and paintings were produced.
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at our hotel before heading out along the coastal road. This route along the Skeleton Coast offers views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and gravel plains on the other, evoking the feeling of shipwrecked sailors—an stark, desolate landscape. A short detour takes you to one of the world's largest colonies of Cape fur seals. This colony hosts about 80,000 to 100,000 seals, which are actually a species of sea lion. Visitors can observe the seals from a walkway approximately 200 metres away.
We head inland to Uis, a settlement that was once a thriving tin mine. Although it has declined, a few resilient residents continue to keep the town alive. After passing the Brandberg Mountain, we proceed through Damaraland until reaching the Twyfelfontein area. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its impressive collection of rock engravings, some dating back to the Stone Age. It showcases a rich history of human activity and culture, featuring over 2,500 carvings of animals, human figures, and abstract shapes.
Day 11: Olifantsrus Campsite, Etosha West
Accommodation: Olifantsrus Campsite o/s Meals: Full Board
Distance: 260 km
Our adventures take us through the communal and farmlands of Damaraland, heading due north to Etosha National Park. On the way, we'll visit a Himba Village before arriving at the Galton Gate, from where we will go on a game drive to our campsite. This expansive area in western Etosha was once restricted to visitors but was opened in 2014. Located in the western part of Etosha National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary in northwestern Namibia, Etosha West is the more rugged, hilly region accessible via Galton Gate, offering a stark contrast to the rest of the park. Our campsite features a modern double-story hide overlooking a man-made waterhole—sit back, relax, and watch nature unfold around you.
Day 12: Etosha Omusati Lodge, Etosha South
Accommodation: Etosha Omusati Lodge o/s Meals: Full Board
The optimal times for game viewing are early morning and late afternoon. Start your day with a visit to the waterhole at camp before packing up and heading deeper into Etosha- keep your binoculars and cameras ready! Etosha National Park, situated in central Namibia, is one of Africa’s premier wildlife conservation areas.
Spanning over 22,000 square kilometres, this vast park is a sanctuary for diverse plants and animals, set amidst dry landscapes, salt flats, and unique ecosystems. Established in 1907 and designated a national park in 1967, Etosha is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. We plan to camp at Okaukuejo Resort; if that's not possible, we will stay overnight at Etosha Omusati Lodge.
Day 13: Onguma Game Reserve
Accommodation: Onguma Campsites o/s Meals: Full Board
The vastness of Etosha National Park becomes truly apparent when travelling from its southern to eastern parts. We take smaller roads, moving from one waterhole to another, aiming to observe as many animals as possible during the day. Patience and a little luck make this wildlife adventure even more exciting. By late afternoon, we reach our campsite. After a day of photography, you’ll have the opportunity to review and share your images. During dinner, our guides generously share their extensive knowledge, offering insights beyond what any travel guide can provide, based on their personal experiences.
Nothing beats identifying animal calls while sitting around your roaring campfire.
Day 14: End of Journey
Distance: 545 km Meals: Breakfast & Light Lunch
Our return journey to Windhoek passes through the mining town of Tsumeb and then continues across the farmland toward Okahandja. In Okahandja, there's an opportunity to visit a wood carving market for last-minute souvenirs or keepsakes. We arrive in Windhoek in the early afternoon.
Outbound flight today: Please be advised that C Africa Safaris & Tours accepts no responsibility for any missed outbound flights that may result in missing the late afternoon or evening departure.
Arrival: 15h00 – 17h00
What's Included
✔ Professional guide
✔ Camp assistant (dep. On no of Participants)
✔ All transport whilst on tour
✔ Meals as specified
✔ Camping equipment (does not include sleeping bag / pillow / stretcher)
✔ National Park entrance fees
✔ Campsite fees
What's Not Included
✕ Sleeping bag – can be rented for a daily fee of NAD 50.00
✕ Stretcher - can be rented for a daily fee of NAD 60.00
✕ Pillow & towel
✕ Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks & bottled water
✕ Personal travel insurance – compulsory
Clients must ensure that passports, visas or other travel documents are valid for the duration of their stay in Namibia and other areas included in tour. The company will entertain no complaints related to invalid travel documentation.
