Days 1–3 Cape Town (approx. 20 km) Arrival at Cape Town airport and collection of your reserved hire car. You then drive to your accommodation. You will have time to explore Cape Town or end the day in one of the city’s many cosy cafés. Overnight at the CloudNine Boutique Hotel or similar.
Days 4–5 Wellington (approx. 80 km) You begin your journey by discovering the vast wine-growing region of the Cape. On the famous Wine Route, you will have the opportunity to taste excellent local wines. Why not join a cellar tour followed by a tasting at one of the many estates? Overnight at the Val du Charron Wine & Leisure Estate or similar.
Day 6 Clanwilliam (approx. 190 km) Today you cross the spectacular landscapes of the Cederberg Mountains towards Citrusdal. This region is the cradle of most of South Africa’s fruit production and of the famous rooibos tea. The road takes you through vast plantations and orchards and past magnificent mountain ranges to Clanwilliam, where you spend the night. Overnight at the Yellow Aloe Guesthouse or similar.
Day 7 Orange River (approx. 500 km) Today a longer stage awaits you, but the well-surfaced road and the destination make it worthwhile. You reach the border with Namibia at the Orange River (Oranje), which, at 2,160 kilometres, is the second-longest river in Southern Africa after the Zambezi. This true riverside oasis offers a place to cool off as well as adventurous activities such as guided canoe trips, which you can do the next morning before continuing your journey. Overnight at the Norotshama River Resort or similar.
Day 8 Fish River Canyon (approx. 116 km) Your journey continues to the Fish River Canyon. One of Namibia’s most impressive natural wonders, this canyon stretches for about 160 km, reaches depths of up to 550 metres and ranks among the largest canyons in the world. Overnight at the Canyon Lodge or similar.
Days 9–10 Aus & Lüderitz (approx. 300 km) After breakfast, you leave the dune landscapes heading south towards Aus. This village is known for its wild horses. Take time for a walk in this charming region with its varied landscapes. The next day, just before reaching Lüderitz, you can visit Kolmanskop, an abandoned former mining town. A guided tour of this ghost town immerses you in its fascinating past. In the afternoon, you have time to relax at the lodge. Overnight at the Klein Aus Vista Desert Horse Inn or similar.
Days 11–12 Sossusvlei (approx. 345 km) Early this morning, you set off towards the Namib Desert. Its spectacular glowing red sand dunes are among the highest in the world. The next day, you can drive to Sossusvlei at sunrise and climb to the top of these giants of sand on foot. The panorama is simply unforgettable. For the rest of the day, you can enjoy your lodge’s pool or explore the surroundings on a ‘Nature Drive’. Overnight at The Elegant Desert Lodge or similar.
Day 13 Windhoek (approx. 295 km) After breakfast, you set off on your final stage, climbing up to the central plateau. The endless sky, the thornbush savannahs and perhaps a few antelopes or warthogs accompany you one last time before you arrive in Windhoek, the capital. Return of your hire car. End of the trip or individual extension.