View and take photos of the Kalahari Desert, the majestic Fish River Canyon and the world's highest sand dunes in the Namib Desert at Sossusvlei. Sossusvlei is a clay pan surrounded by some of the highest sand dunes in the world.
Observe the flora and fauna that inhabit this region. Climbing one of the dunes affords the energetic traveller with an unforgettable experience of endless vistas across a sea of apricot-coloured sand.
Time will be taken to explore the impressive conglomerate gorges of the Sesriem Canyon, with its rock pools fed by the Tsauchab, the same river that feeds Sossusvlei during the rainy season.
As you depart Cape Town, you make a final stop to have a last glimpse of Table Mountain. A visit to a classic "Padstal," a small farm stall that offers a range of freshly baked goods and snacks, is a must on every road trip through South Africa.
In addition to breathtaking mountains and orange fields, the Cedarberg region is home to the native Rooibos bush, which makes a pleasant caffeine-free substitute for ordinary tea. You will get the chance to get to know one another over supper during our overnight stay, all while experiencing true South African hospitality.
Namaqualand offers the first glimpse of the desert panoramas that will surround you in the coming days. Proceeding northward, you make a little detour to Springbok for provisions before reaching your camp beside the Orange River.
Should you be lucky enough to travel during the spring (July through September), you might come upon the wild flowers that have made this area famous.
Getting out on the water is the best way to experience the Orange River, and this morning you have the chance to participate in an optional canoe excursion down the river. You leave the Orange River at noon, or after lunch, and go inland to the scenic Fish River Canyon, which is the longest river in Namibia and the biggest canyon in Africa.
You will drive to the edge of the Fish River Canyon, where you can take a leisurely stroll to get some fresh air before heading to Keetmanshoop.
A full day's journey takes you south through the desert-dominated landscapes to a picturesque Quiver Tree Forest near Keetmanshoop. This prehistoric tree reaches skyward with graphically forked branches, their trunks peel and form intricate patterns as the tree matures, these are rewarding subjects to photograph.
Giant's Playground is an impressive jumble of massive boulders, a virtual maze where time can be spent wandering through the extensive rocky labyrinth.
Today has been set aside for you to unwind and rejuvenate while admiring the desert's scenery. There are optional activities available, like self-guided walks in Namib-Naukuft National Park.
An early start is important, as this is not only the coolest part of the day but it's the best for photography. Your journey takes you to the famous Sossusvlei, a clay pan surrounded by some of the highest sand dunes in the world. You will get to climb the famous Dune 45.
Time will be taken to explore the impressive conglomerate gorges of the Sesriem Canyon, with its rock pools fed by the Tsauchab.
Travelling via the Gaub and Kuiseb Canyons, you will visit the Welwitschia Plains and Moon Landscape before arriving in the coastal town of Swakopmund where this Namibia tour ends.