Cape & Dunes Northbound: Wildlife & Starry Night Skies

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

13 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

22 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 39 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Cape Town, South Africa

Ends

Windhoek, Namibia

Highlights

Soak up cosmopolitan Cape Town.

take in the breathtaking view of the immense Fish River Canyon.

tackle the world's largest sand dunes.

get your adrenaline going with adventurous activities.

snap shots of the "big five" in Etosha National Park

Itinerary

From Cape Town’s vibrant streets to Namibia’s surreal sands, the Cape & Dunes Northbound: Wildlife & Starry Night Skies tour is a 13-day odyssey crafted for young explorers. Wildlife safari drives in Etosha National Park, camping beneath the stars, and the lunar landscapes of Swakopmund are just a few highlights. Traveling in a rugged overland vehicle with a knowledgeable CEO, you’ll have the freedom to choose optional excursions while absorbing the continent’s lively spirit. The USP: a quintessential African adventure tour blending wildlife, dramatic scenery, and cultural encounters into a single, unforgettable package.

day 1 - Cape Town

Arrive at any time.

Tonight, get to know your group on your first night out together in Cape Town. After a brief welcome meeting and optional dinner out together, head to the clubs on Long Street to explore the vibrant nightlife. Put those dancing shoes on and get to know your fellow travel buddies as the adventure begins!
Get the most out of your time in Cape Town by pre-booking the South African Wine Tour and Tasting extra. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night pre-tour as this activity has an early start time. Please note, due to the timings of this activity, there is a possibility you may miss the welcome meeting on day 1 of your tour - in this case, your CEO will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.

Accomodation:Hotel Sky Cape Town - Dorm Room (or similar)

Included Activities:Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Duration : 1.0 hr, Connect With New Friends

Optional Activities:Sandboarding and San Cultural Explorer Day Tour , Sandboarding Half Day Tour - Atlantis Dunes , Table Mountain Cable Car , South African Wine Tour and Tasting , Hout Bay Kayaking Half Day Tour , Two Oceans Aquarium , Table Mountain Hike , Cape Point Explorer Day Tour , Urban Explorer Day Tour , Overberg Explorer Day Tour , West Coast Explorer Day Tour

day 2 - Cape Town/Cederberg

Hit the road in style in the Lando and view the stunning Western Cape scenery as the group travels to the G Adventures-supported !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre. Here you will learn about the history and culture of the ancient San people and be able to directly help this centre preserve that heritage.

In the afternoon the group will arrive at your first campsite where you can enjoy free time to sip on some local wine, or simply chill out by the campsite’s swimming pool overlooking the vineyards.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Highlanders Campsite and Lodge (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 5.0 hr Distance : 300 km

Included Activity:!Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre

Optional Activities:Wine Tasting Visit a wine cellar cooperative to taste a selection of local wines. Enjoy the experience while looking out over a beautiful view of South African winelands.

day 3 - Cederberg/Orange River

Travel further north past large plantations of rooibos tea. You will be camping at the scenic Orange River for the night where you can kick back, relax, reflect, and enjoy a late afternoon swim in the river. If you are still in need of some activity choose to book a canoe excursion on the river. Other than that your only job today is to enjoy yourself and have a relaxing time.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Bushwhacked - Fiddlers Creek Camping (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 6.5 hr Distance : 350 km

Optional Activities:Paddling on Orange River

day 4 - Orange River/Fish River Canyon

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 and cross another country off those travel lists as the group heads over the border into Namibia.

The next stop is Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa, and arguably the second largest in the world. Hop off the Lando, do some stretches, take in the majestic beauty of the canyon and together watch as the vibrant sunset slips over the canyon’s rim. Then it’s on to camp to enjoy each other's company around the campfire as the stars begin to rise.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Hobas Lodge Campsite (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 5.0 hr Distance : 180 km

Included Activities:Border Crossing (South Africa - Namibia), Fish River Canyon Visit at Sunset

day 5 - Fish River Canyon/Namib Desert

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).

Pass by the small and desolate towns of Bethanien and Helmeringhausen and continue north along long and bumpy roads, en route to the Namib Desert. Then, embrace the bizarreness of this environment by really taking the time to enjoy it. The group will arrive in the area in the late afternoon, where the towering red sand dunes of Sossusvlei make you really feel as though you’re in the middle of nowhere.

Set up camp and get some rest for the fun days ahead!

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Sossus Oasis Camp Site (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 10.0 hr Distance : 560 km

day 6 - Namib Desert

Delve into the heart of Namibia’s desert landscapes and begin the Day at dawn. Absorb the serene beauty of sunrise from atop the iconic Dune 45. As the golden light washes over the desert, you will climb the dune for breathtaking views before the Day heats up. Next, venture to the surreal Deadvlei for an optional excursion to this mesmerising clay pan, framed by some of the world's tallest sand dunes; a photographer’s paradise.

After soaking in the desert’s raw beauty, retreat to the cooler confines of Sesriem Canyon. Wander through this natural wonder in the afternoon when the shade provides a respite from the sun. Learn about the canyon’s formation and discover hidden pools that sustain wildlife in this arid region.
Conclude your day with a scenic drive, if time allows, stopping at the quaint town of Solitaire, before settling in at the campsite. Here, you may opt for an evening activity: "Namib Desert Walk." This activity is an educational experience about bushmen's survival in the desert, the geology of sand dunes, and local wildlife, and ends with a beautiful desert sunset.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Bushman's Desert Camp Sossus on foot Desert Walk (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 5.0 hr

Included Activities:Dune 45 Visit, Sesriem Canyon Visit

Optional Activities:Namib Desert Walk Enjoy a walk amongst the dunes, learning about the surrounding Namib Desert as well as the survival strategies of Bushmen who live in the area., Deadvlei Visit Venture out into Deadvlei. These drylands boast incredible contrasts of black dead trees amidst the white clay soil, surrounded by red sand dunes reaching up to 300 meters high. We don't want to spoil too much; go and see this unique site for yourselves - it's a must for any traveller to Namibia.

day 7 - Namib Desert/Swakopmund

Bid farewell to your lovely campsite and zoom off further north in the Lando. Get a real feel for the Namib Desert as the group spends hours crossing this empty region over dry mountain passes to get to the adrenaline capital of Swakopmund.

Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the mighty Namib Desert, this coastal city has strong German heritage which is reflected in the architecture around town. The group will spend two nights in Swakopmund so fear not, you have time for all of the fun activities you want to try.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Amanpuri Backpackers (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 7.0 hr Distance : 300 km

day 8 - Swakopmund

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 feasted on the Skeleton Coast scenic flight).
You can pre-book your sky dive on the checkout page, or through your Global Connection Officer or travel agent.

Accomodation:Amanpuri Backpackers (or similar)

Optional Activities:Sandboarding in the Namib Desert Head out into the desert, grab a board, and surf the sand dunes. Choose to lie down headfirst, or stand up, surfer-style., Skeleton Coast Scenic Flight , Swakopmund Skydiving , Mondesa Township Tour Explore the back streets and local culture on a guided interpretive walk.    Learn about the history of Swakopmund, its housing and other various topics to get a better understanding of local life. Visit a woman from the Herero ethnic group and also a Nama Medicine Woman, who will host a 'click' lesson in the local Daman language. Finish at a local pub called a 'shebeen' with the opportunity to try the local bush delicacy of Mopani worms and a drink.

day 9 - Swakopmund/Spitzkoppe

Bid farewell to lovely Swakopmund and hop on the Lando as you travel through the coastal region of Namibia toward the granite peaks of Spitzkoppe.

What is Spitzkoppe you ask? Great question! It’s been dubbed the Matterhorn of Namibia. But basically, if you are the type of person who loves epic climbing, hiking, camping, stargazing, sunrises, and sunsets then Spitzkoppe will have a very special place in your heart.

Upon arrival, the rest of the Day is yours to explore as you wish. This mountaineering paradise will have you breaking out of your comfort zones in no time. Scramble up rock faces to get that perfect view, take selfies under the natural rock arch, and get some artsy photos as the sun sets. Then after cooking up some grub around the campfire, get ready to see the milky way light up the night sky.
Explore on your own by foot, and be sure to check out the night sky—it's great for star-gazing!

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Spitzkoppe Community Restcamp (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 3.0 hr - 4.0 hr

day 10 - Spitzkoppe/Etosha National Park

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 to Etosha National Park for some prime wildlife viewing. As the group enters the park you will enjoy a short safari drive in the Lando on the way to your camp.

As you drive look out over the beautiful landscape as far as the eye can see. After sunset, watch animals at the watering holes near the camping area, which is safe, being well lit with flood lights. Free time this evening allows for the option of a night safari in an open vehicle.
Look out over beautiful desert landscapes as far as the eye can see. There are Himba, Herero, and Damara people along the way selling local arts, and we’ll be sure to make a few stops to find out more about their offerings. 

After sunset, watch animals at the watering holes near the camping area, which is safe, being well lit with flood lights. Free time at night allows for the option of a night safari in an open vehicle.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:NWR Etosha NP Okaukeujo Restcamp (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 7.0 hr - 8.0 hr Distance : 435 km

Included Activity:Etosha National Park Wildlife Safari Drive (Lando)

Optional Activities:Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Night Drive Set off in an open 4x4 safari vehicle with a naturalist guide in search of the stunning wildlife in the park at. Wildlife often come to the many watering holes to drink, so keep your eyes peeled for many animals on the move.

day 11 - Etosha National Park

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 some eye-spy with your travel buddies and go crazy with those cameras because we can’t wait to see what you experience!

The coolest thing about this national park is that, because of its size and the large amount of animals within, it’s almost as if the wildlife comes directly to you; especially during the dry season (May through October) when the animals all gather around the waterholes creating some of the densest wildlife viewing opportunities in the world.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:NWR Etosha NP Okaukeujo Restcamp (or similar)

Transport:Lando

Included Activity:Etosha National Park Wildlife Safari Drive (Lando)

day 12 - Etosha National Park/Waterberg Plateau

By now you will most likely have seen some wildlife and that’s a good thing because it’s time to move on from Etosha further south to the Waterberg Plateau.

Once the Lando pulls to a stop you’ll be itching to stretch those legs so hit the trails in this gorgeous national park searching for secret plunge pools and wildlife such as buffalo and giraffe along the way. Or if you are looking to relax, chill out at camp, write in your travel journal, or take a dip in the pool of the group campsite.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Waterberg Campsite (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 4.0 hr - 5.0 hr Distance : 300 km

day 13 - Waterberg Plateau/Windhoek

It’s the group's last travel Day so let’s have some fun! Leave the Waterberg Plateau National Park behind and head south through the Namibian countryside to Windhoek. Along the way you will stop at the G Adventures supported Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, just outside of Windhoek. There you will enjoy a delicious included lunch before the tour ends.

If you aren't ready to go home that's totally fine, just yet talk with your CEO about extending your adventure and get to know more of Namibia or beyond!
Leave the Waterberg Plateau National Park and head south through the Namibian countryside to Windhoek.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Transport:Lando Duration : 4.0 hr - 5.0 hr Distance : 305 km

Included Activities:Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, Departure Day

Cape & Dunes Northbound: Wildlife & Starry Night Skies

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What's Included

Accommodation

Hostel (3 nts, multi-share), participation camping (9 nts)

Meals

11 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners
Note: Allow USD120-160 for meals not included.

Transport

Lando (overland adventure vehicle), walking.All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Guide

2 CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) throughout as head guide/cook and driver, local guides.

Included activities

Your G for Good Moment: !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, YzerfonteinYour G for Good Moment: Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, WindhoekYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and GroupYour First Night Out Moment: Connect With New FriendsFish River Canyon, Park fees for Dune 45, Sesriem Canyon, and Spitzkoppe entrance feesEtosha NP entrance with wildlife safari drivesWaterberg Plateau visit

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Cape & Dunes Northbound: Wildlife & Starry Night Skies

5.0

based on 8 reviews

Tour Availability

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Other Practical Information

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4.67/5

Excellent based on 808 customer reviews from

Anonymous

Sistema di prenotazione semplice e intuibile. In caso di necessità le istruzioni presenti sul sito sono risultate utili e chiare. Nessun problema riscontrato

1 week ago

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