Namibia & South Africa: Epic Landscapes & Wildlife

You’re on your way to South Africa and Namibia, two nations with intertwined histories and some of the most incredible landscapes, wildlife, and cultural diversity in the world. Get ready for a truly unique experience, from the dunes of Sossusvlei to the coasts of Cape Town.

Arrive in Johannesburg after your overnight flight. Get settled at your airport hotel and rest before tomorrow’s morning flight to Namibia. As arrival times will vary, there are no scheduled activities today. Settle in at your own pace, perhaps exploring the city independently.

Today, fly to Windhoek, Namibia’s capital city. One of Southern Africa’s most fascinating destinations, Namibia is one of the youngest countries in Africa and one of the least populated in the world. With its recent independence from South Africa, this frontier nation is a surprise to most. After landing in Windhoek, start your adventure with a road journey to Sossusvlei, one of Namibia’s most stunning landmarks. Arrive at your lodge after a day of travel, just in time to settle in and enjoy your first dinner with your traveling companions.

Embark on the experience of a lifetime. Start the day early to ensure the best experience at one of Namibia’s most dramatic landscapes – the red sand dunes of Deadvlei in the Namib desert. A landscape reminiscent of science fiction movies, the Sossusvlei region is home to some of the world’s tallest dunes. Climb one of these epic dunes to access Deadvlei,* a salt pan famous for its ancient petrified trees. A paradise for photographers and scenery enthusiasts alike, the Namib desert will leave lasting memories. See firsthand how animals survive in this harsh environment, and look for its most famous resident – the oryx!

Say farewell to the Namib desert and set out on another epic journey as you take a long, scenic drive to the coastal town of Swakopmund. With its German colonial architecture, marine wildlife, and access to the Skeleton Coast, Swakopmund is a unique desert oasis. This afternoon, visit the Welwitschia Plains and Moon Valley for another look at what makes Namibia so unique – its hyper-arid landscape creates the perfect conditions for endemic species of plants seen nowhere else.

This morning, drive to Walvis Bay and join a marine cruise to search for seals, pelicans, and dolphins. Learn from your cruise guides what makes this area so unique for these marine animals. Continue your exploration to Pelican Point for a glimpse of some pink feathered friends and a view of what makes this coastline so famous – its numerous ship wrecks.

Leave this coastal beauty behind as we head to your second Namibian National Park – Etosha. During your longest land transfer on this adventure, stop for a tasting and lunch at a winery paving the way for Namibian wines and spirits. Later this afternoon, check in to your rustic lodge and settle in before dinner overlooking the African bush.

Early this morning, depart for your first game drive. In open safari vehicles, search for rhino, giraffe, lions, elephants, and several types of antelopes. Ostriches will welcome you at every corner and wildebeest will greet you at watering holes. Return to your lodge for lunch before departing for your afternoon game drive. End the day with memories of salt flats and wild animals thriving in a surreal landscape.

Today, take a break from safari vehicles and join a full day game drive in an enclosed vehicle. If you wish, you may choose to upgrade to open vehicles (if your adventurous side has not yet been satiated!).

Travel your last Namibian leg of this journey and arrive back in its capital city, Windhoek. Despite it being the capital, enjoy its calm atmosphere during your free afternoon before you join your fellow travelers at dinner to reminisce about your adventure in Namibia.

End your time in Namibia with a meaningful visit to Penduka during an Impact Moment. With its mission to support gender equality and empower women, learn how Penduka supports the local community through traditional craftwork and skill sharing. Then, travel to the airport for your flight to Cape Town, South Africa, and end your day as a guest of honor in a Capetonian family’s home. Over dinner, exchange stories and get to know what everyday life is like here in Cape Town.

Get to see the natural side of Cape Town today. Travel to Cape Point, the southwestern tip of Africa. Marvel at the vibrant green foliage blanketing the rocky outcrops, contrasting the bright blue waves below. Visit the Cape of Good Hope and stop at Boulders Beach for the rarest of black-tie events – a rendezvous with endangered African penguins! Return to the city via Table Bay.

Today, explore South Africa’s eclectic cultural mecca. Rise gently over the South African landscape in a cable car to Table Mountain,** taking in views of Cape Town, Lions Head, and historic Robben Island. Then, view the city’s heritage sites, historic landmarks, and bustling city center during a city tour. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax at your hotel or to further explore this fascinating city as you wish.

Say goodbye to city life and hello to South Africa’s stunning natural beauty. Board your flight to Johannesburg as you make your way to Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in South Africa. Then, a six-hour drive will bring you to the unmatched beauty of the African savanna. Check in to your hotel, ideally located at the entrance of the park on the banks of the Sabie River.

Pack your camera as you head off on a full day game drive! Search for the “Big 5” from your open-air vehicle and experience some iconic South African scenery. Relax with a picnic lunch within the park, before setting off again for your afternoon game drive.

Head out again on another full-day game drive for your last opportunity to see all the majestic scenery and animals you have come this far to experience. Tonight, join your fellow explorers for dinner and toast farewell to all the extraordinary places you’ve encountered during this epic African adventure.

Bid farewell to your fellow travelers when you leave Kruger for Johannesburg and head back home.***