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Cape & Dunes Southbound: Desert Camping & Safari Drives

4.7(11,234 reviews)
Namibia
14 days
Operated by Partner

$2,949

$250
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Limited spots • Free trip & date changes • Pay later, 0% interest

Destinations

Namibia

Overview

Now's the time to explore Africa on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Lions, elephants, and springboks… oh my! On this two-week adventure, you'll experience incredible desert scenery, cosmopolitan city streets, and wonderful wildlife as you discover the diverse riches of South Africa and Namibia. Explore some of the world's highest sand dunes, visit Africa's largest canyon, and venture through Etosha National Park in search of the "big five." Our expert CEOs will reveal the region’s hidden gems, taking the hassle out of travel so you can sit back and soak it all in.

Trip itinerary

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 1
Walking1 day

Arrive at any time. Tonight, get to know your group on a night out together in Windhoek. Choose to venture to your CEO’s favourite local spot, enjoy dinner with everyone, and experience the unique atmosphere and community vibe of Windhoek. As you sip on a cold drink you'll meet strangers who share your love of stories, exploration, and living life ...

Day 2
Walking1 day

Hit the road in style in the Lando as the group travels to the G Adventures-supported Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, just outside of Windhoek. There you will pick up your tasty packed lunch before continuing on to Waterberg Plateau. You’ll be itching to stretch those legs so hit the trails in this gorgeous national park searching for secret ...

Day 3
Walking1 day

“Lions and elephants, and springboks… oh my!” Get ready to spot some wildlife as your group enjoys a short safari drive in Etosha National Park in the Lando as your head towards camp. Don’t worry even if you have had a taste of African wildlife before visiting Namibia you are still likely to become mesmerized here. So have those cameras at the ...

Day 4
Walking1 day

It’s time to adventure in 3… 2… 1! Today, your group will embark on a full-day wildlife safari drive in Etosha NP. It’s crazy the amount of animal species that occupy this smaller protected area (more than 100 different mammals call Etosha home). Try not let your attention wander as you move further and further into the wild lands of Etosha. Play ...

Day 5
Walking1 day

We get it you may not want to leave Etosha and the paradise you found there, but there’s still some pretty amazing things to see on this trip so let’s keep moving. Today, you will travel south with your group to enjoy the rocky peaks of Spitzkoppe. What is Spitzkoppe you ask? Great question! It’s been dubbed the “Matterhorn” of Namibia, but ...

Day 6
Walking1 day

Wake up and feel like you crash landed on Mars. Gaze in wonder at this wild landscape and let peace wash over you (trust us you’re going to need it) before the group travels through the coastal region of Namibia to the adrenaline capital of Swakopmund. Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the mighty Namib desert this coastal city has strong ...

Day 7
Walking1 day

The day is yours! Grab some friends or set off alone and conquer this outdoor lovers paradise. From skydiving to sandboarding there’s no shortage of activities to try. Flip a coin to see which will be your fate or even better try them all (we have our eyes set on the Skeleton Coast scenic flight)! You can pre-book your sky dive on the checkout page ...

Day 8
Walking1 day

Bid farewell to lovely Swakopmund and zoom off in the Lando to the oldest desert in the world. Write, vlog, reflect, nap, and laugh together as the group travels further south to where you will be camping on the edge of the Namib Desert. Once there, set up camp, take in the vastness of your surroundings and choose to walk with a local expert who ...

Day 9
Walking1 day

Embrace the bizarreness of this environment by really taking the time to explore it. Wander through the stunning rock formations of the Sesriem Canyon and learn how it got its name. Visit the canyon early for mild temperatures and try to discover some of the pools of water that allow animals to survive in this harsh climate. Marvel at light ...

Day 10
Walking1 day

While the group has a lot of ground to cover today don’t let that daunt you. You have been so on the go lately you won’t mind the rest of a long drive (besides, by now you probably have loads to talk about with everyone). The next stop is Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa, and arguably the second largest in the world. Hop off the ...

Day 11
Walking1 day

It’s time to cross another country off those travel lists as the group heads into South Africa! You will be camping at the scenic Orange River for the night where you can kick back, relax, reflect on how epic this trip has been, and enjoy a late afternoon swim in the river. If you are still in need of some activity choose to book a canoe excursion ...

Day 12
Walking1 day

Yes, we know you could stay at the oasis of Orange River for much longer than one night, but this group has things to do and places to see so get a move on further south past large plantations of rooibos tea viewing the dramatic Western Cape scenery as you go. You’ll be stopping for the night amidst the Cederberg mountains, where you can enjoy wine ...

Day 13
Walking1 day

It’s the group's last travel day so have some fun! Watch as the Cederberg Mountains fade into the distance on the way to the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. Along the way you will be stopping at the G Adventures-supported !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre where you will learn about the history and culture of the ancient Sans people and be ...

Day 14
Walking1 day

Depart at any time. But why would you want to right? If you aren't ready to go home just yet that's totally fine, simply talk with your CEO about extending your adventure and get to know more of South Africa or beyond! We highly recommend booking an extra night in Cape Town to explore all that this area has to offer.

What's included

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Activities and Logistics
Your G for Good Moment: Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, Windhoek Your G for Good Moment: !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, Yzerfontein Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends. Waterberg Plateau visit. Etosha National Park entrance with wildlife safari drives. Entrance to Sossusvlei Dunes, Fish River Canyon, and Spitzkoppe. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Activities and Logistics
2 CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) throughout as head guide/cook and driver, local guides.
Activities and Logistics
You'll be on the move often, so pack lightly with clearly labeled, soft compact suitcase or sports bag (max 15kg) and a daypack. Airlines enforce strict luggage limits and vehicles have limited space. Prepare to carry your bags as porters may not always be available. For camping, bring your own sleeping bag, small pillow, and sleeping sheet. Tents and sleeping pads are provided. Dress appropriately for the season – winters can be very cold, and summers can be very hot. Keep smart casual clothes for other occasions.
Activities and Logistics
We use a custom built 24 seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) named the Lando, to criss-cross through Southern Africa. The Lando allows the entire group, including your CEO, to travel together, and because of its height, is great for wildlife viewing and for enjoying the scenic landscape. Road conditions can run the full gamut from new to being in very poor condition. This style of travel is by no means luxury but it allows us the flexibility of making stops when needed, and reaching some out-of-the way parts in Africa where the traditional safari crowd would not dare to go. Here’s a quick look at the unique features of the well-equipped G Adventures overland adventure vehicle (OAV): - Storage for your main luggage is accessible from inside the vehicle - Day packs can be stored at your feet or on the luggage shelf above - Onboard safety box for valuables - Front viewing windows and large sliding windows, both great for wildlife viewing - Reclining seats - Fully equipped mobile kitchen - Access to a 250L tank of drinking water - Air-conditioning - Charging station, when available in camp (South African plug - 220-240V) - USB charging ports for every traveller at their seat. Please note that our Landos do not have on-board bathrooms. This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Please take note of th...
Activities and Logistics
Additional Items: Sleeping bag and liner (Seasonally appropriate). Cold Weather: Long-sleeved shirts or sweater, scarf, warm gloves, warm hat, warm layers. Documents: Flight info, insurance info, passport, vouchers and pre-departure information, visas or vaccination certificates (all with photocopies). Essentials: Binoculars (optional), camera (extra memory cards and batteries), cash, credit and debit cards, day pack, ear plugs, first-aid kit, flashlight/torch (preferably headlamps), fleece top/sweater, footwear, hat, locks for bags, long pants/jeans, moneybelt, outlet adapter, personal entertainment, reusable water bottle, shirts/t-shirts, sleepwear, small travel towel, sunglasses, toiletries (preferably biodegradable), watch and alarm clock, waterproof backpack cover, windproof rain jacket. Health and Safety: Hand sanitizer, face masks (where mandated by local regulations), pen (for filling out documents), and quick Covid Test/Antigen Test. Warm Weather: Sandals/flip-flops, shorts/skirts (longer recommended), sun hat/bandana, swimwear. Note: In Southern Africa, seasons are extreme.
Activities and Logistics
Laundry can be done at least once a week on this route. Swakopmund lodge offers laundry services for clients. At some campsites, local women can do laundry by hand with a negotiable price, usually between ZAR30-ZAR50 per load. Bring your own washing powder or liquid for smaller items.
Activities and Logistics
All countries require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, consulate, or travel agent for the most up-to-date visa requirements. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and destination. Check visa information specific to your destination and nationality in our Important Pre-Departure Information page. Visas cannot be obtained on arrival in Namibia. Visit the Namibia tourism website for more information on exemptions and visa requirements.
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Accommodation
Participation camping (8 nts), permanent tented camp (1 nt), guesthouse (2 nts, multi-share with up to 10 people), bush camping (1 nt), hostel (1 nt multi-share up to 4 people).
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room/Tent" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room/tent for all nights, except for the below.
Rooming and "My Own Room" Exceptions
Camping in Africa is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful wilderness and nature. While camping, we stay at designated campsites in national parks and outside towns. Campsite facilities in southern Africa are generally good, but can be basic in certain places. There are generally small restaurants and/or bars, washing facilities and occasionally telephones available. The camps have flush toilets, and showers at some camps are outdoors, having simple reed enclosures for privacy. Additionally, warm water is available at most sites, but it is not guaranteed to always be warm when you take your shower; the warm water may be used up others who also use the camp. We usually set-up camp within close proximity to the toilet facilities, though occasionally to reach them you may to walk a short distance. All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied, including camp mattresses, which are warm and comfortable. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard 2-person safari canvas tents. Please note that most adults will not be able to fully stand up inside the tents, though most travellers find these more than...
Meals
Most of the meals on this tour are included in the tour price. When a meal is not included, this is because there are often many options available - we would like to give you the opportunity to explore a bit and test the local cuisine yourself. In these cases, your CEO will be able to suggest some good local restaurants or options for you to choose from. All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. The majority of the shopping for foodstuffs will be done before the trip departs, and fresh goods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, will be bought en route during the trip from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. Our cook will organize the meal preparation and lead the way here, but will prepare a duty schedule for ensuring a fair, rotating participation from you and your group members in the meal preparation and dish washing duties. Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.
Dossier Disclaimer
12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners
Highlights
1. Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
Transport
Lando (Overland Adventure Vehicle), walking.
About Accommodation
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent. Upon arrival in Windhoek, arrival transfers are not included. Please make your way to the joining hotel. Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport is about 40 km from downtown. There are a variety of ways to get into the city. Taxi: When arriving at the international terminal, walk straight ahead and out the doors and just to your left you will see sedan vehicles which are the taxis. The amount should be between N$250 to N$350 but agree on the price before getting into the vehicle. Shuttle: When arriving at the international terminal, walk straight ahead and out the doors and just to your left you will see a mini-van. This is the shuttle service to Windhoek/Windhoek hotels/guesthouses and departs when the vehicle is reasonably full (Cost is $120N payble in South African Rand 1ZAR=$1N). If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi. Please note that day...
Emergency Contact
If you encounter a dire situation and need to contact us, call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if listed) or our G Adventures Local Office. If you don't receive an immediate answer, leave a detailed message and contact information for a return call to assist you. If you've purchased an arrival transfer or it's included in the tour cost, your transfer is based on the provided flight information. If your flight schedule changes within 48 hours before arrival, we will try to rearrange your transfer but it's not guaranteed. If the arrival transfer doesn't arrive within 30 minutes after exiting the arrivals area, call the local emergency contact numbers for more information.
Joining Instructions
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
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Spending Money
Etosha National Park - Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Night Drive (750NAD per person) - Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive (660NAD per person) Swakopmund - Sandboarding in the Namib Desert (700NAD per person) - Swakopmund Guided Cultural Tour (550NAD per person) - Skeleton Coast Scenic Flight (4800NAD per person) - Swakopmund Skydiving Namib Desert - Namib Desert Walk (320NAD per person) Sossusvlei - Sossusvlei Desert Walk (180NAD per person) Fish River Canyon - Swimming Orange River - Canoeing on Orange River (400ZAR per person) Cederberg - Wine Tasting (140ZAR per person) Cape Town - Two Oceans Aquarium (220ZAR per person) - Tandem Paragliding (1500ZAR per person) - Cape Point & Boulders Beach Tour (1100ZAR per person) - Sandboarding in the Atlantis Dunes (900ZAR per person) - Table Mountain Abseiling (1350ZAR per person) - Wine Tour and Tasting (1295ZAR per person) Table Mountain - Table Mountain Cable Car (300-390ZAR per person) - Table...
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Cape & Dunes Southbound: Desert Camping & Safari Drives