Cape & Dunes Southbound: Desert Camping & Safari Drives

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

14 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

Windhoek, Namibia

Ends

Cape Town, South Africa

Highlights

Search for the Big Five in Etosha National Park.

Get the adrenaline pumping with adventure activities in Swakopmund.

Tackle the world's largest sand dunes.

Appreciate beauty in the Fish River Canyon.

Get cultured in Cape Town

Itinerary

Craving desert vistas and wild safaris? The "Cape & Dunes Southbound: Desert Camping & Safari Drives" tour is designed for young adventurers ready to discover the diverse riches of South Africa and Namibia. Over 14 days, experience the thrill of camping in the world’s highest sand dunes, spot lions and elephants in Etosha National Park, and gaze into the vastness of Africa’s largest canyon. Led by expert guides, this moderately active wildlife trip balances action-packed days with easy logistics, letting you soak in each moment. The standout feature is its blend of city life, desert wonder, and top-tier safari experiences—all wrapped into a journey where every day brings a new discovery.

day 1 - Windhoek

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 to the fullest as you prepare for your greatest adventure yet!

Accomodation:Urban Camp (or similar)

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

day 2 - Windhoek/Waterberg Plateau

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 plunge pools and wildlife such as buffalo, and giraffe along the way. Or if you are looking to relax chill out by 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 : 305 km

Included Activity:Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop

day 3 - Waterberg Plateau/Etosha National Park

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 ready because you never know when you might need to snap a photo!

Tonight, rest up for the Day ahead, explore the campgrounds, write in your travel journal, or take a dip in the pool.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Okaukeujo Restcamp (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 4.0 hr - 5.0 hr Distance : 300 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 4 - 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 to 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:Okaukeujo Restcamp (or similar)

Transport:Lando

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

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

day 5 - Etosha National Park/Spitzkoppe

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 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.

Once the Lando comes to a stop the Day is yours to explore as you will. 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, get some artsy photos as the sun sets, and 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 : 7.0 hr - 8.0 hr Distance : 435 km

day 6 - Spitzkoppe/Swakopmund

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 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 things you may want to try.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Amanpuri Backpackers (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 3.0 hr - 4.0 hr Distance : 161 km

day 7 - 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 set 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 8 - Swakopmund/Namib Desert

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 will tell you stories of the desert and its mysteries. Fall asleep under a blanket of stars and feel the eerie calm of this place.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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

Transport:Lando Duration : 7.0 hr Distance : 300 km

day 9 - Namib Desert

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 bouncing off the canyon walls and let yourself feel small.

After this taste of exploration you will probably want to continue so choose to embark on the Sossuvlei Desert Walk to visit a clay pan enclosed by the world’s largest sand dunes and conquer climbing up the breathtaking (literally) Dune 45.

Return to your campsite and gather round for some dinner on the braai before falling asleep with the shadow of the mountains as your view in the distance.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Sossus Oasis Camp Site (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 5.0 hr

Included Activities:Sesriem Canyon Visit, Dune 45 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., Sossusvlei Desert Walk Visit Sossusvlei, a clay pan enclosed by the world’s largest sand dunes and enclosing ancient dead trees.

day 10 - Namib Desert/Fish River Canyon

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 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 on a night around the fire.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Hobas Lodge Campsite (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 9.0 hr - 10.0 hr Distance : 560 km

Included Activity:Fish River Canyon Visit at Sunset

day 11 - Fish River Canyon/Orange River

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 on the river. Other than that your 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 : 5.0 hr Distance : 180 km

Included Activity:Border Crossing (Namibia - South Africa)

Optional Activities:Swimming Grab your bathing suit and go for a refreshing swim. , Paddling on Orange River

day 12 - Orange River/Cederberg

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 tasting, relaxing by the pool, and a camp fire.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Highlanders Campsite and Lodge (or similar)

Transport:Lando Duration : 6.5 hr Distance : 390 km

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 13 - Cederberg/Cape Town

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 San people and be able to directly help this centre preserve that heritage.

Then enjoy the beautiful views of Table Mountain as you arrive into vibrant Cape Town. And hey a little party never hurt anyone so why not choose to head out for a final night of good times with your G travel family?

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

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

Transport:Lando Duration : 5.0 hr Distance : 300 km

Included Activity:!Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre

day 14 - Cape Town

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.

Meal:Breakfast

Included Activity:Departure Day

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

Cape & Dunes Southbound: Desert Camping & Safari Drives

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

Participation camping (8 nts), permanent tented camp (1 nt), backpacker guesthouse (2 nts, multi-share with up to 10 people), bush camping (1 nt), hostel (1 nt multi-share up to 4 people).

Meals

12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners
Note: Allow USD135-175 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: Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, WindhoekYour G for Good Moment: !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, YzerfonteinYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and GroupYour First Night Out Moment: Connect With New FriendsWaterberg Plateau visitEtosha National Park entrance with wildlife safari drivesEntrance to Sossusvlei Dunes, Fish River Canyon, and Spitzkoppe

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Cape & Dunes Southbound: Desert Camping & Safari Drives

5.0

based on 7 reviews

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Other Practical Information

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 60+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 820 customer reviews from

&quot;&quot;

Very prompt and excellent service.

2 hours ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Cape & Dunes Southbound: Desert Camping & Safari Drives that you might like.

Discover Namibia - Lodges

4.8(46 reviews)

Namibia’s vast horizons and wildlife spectacles take center stage on the Discover Namibia – Lodges tour. Over 13 days, this moderately active small group adventure—designed for seniors—guides you from Etosha’s safari magic to the towering dunes of Sesriem, the quirky charm of Swakopmund, and ancient rock art in Damaraland. Enjoy stargazing in remote lodges and rhino tracking on the Waterberg Plateau. The USP? Expert guides who bring Namibia’s natural wonders and rich traditions to life—making every moment both educational and awe-inspiring.

13 days

Discover Namibia - Camping

4.6(71 reviews)

Step into the vast wilderness of Namibia on a 13-day camping trip perfect for seniors eager for adventure under African skies. Journey from Windhoek through Etosha’s wildlife-rich plains, scale the soaring dunes of Sossusvlei, and traverse deep canyons and stark deserts. Nights are spent camping beneath the Milky Way, sharing stories and the landscape with iconic African animals. The tour’s immersive nature offers a rare chance to truly connect with Namibia’s extraordinary scenery and wildlife. The USP? A blend of comfort, camaraderie, and authentic wilderness experience—making this trip a must for those seeking Namibia’s untamed beauty in a group of like-minded explorers.

13 days

Namibian Family Adventurer

4.6(15 reviews)

Imagine watching the sunrise from atop one of the world’s tallest dunes, the desert glowing with shifting hues—this is just the start on the “Namibian Family Adventurer” tour. Designed for seniors and families alike, this 13-day journey begins and ends in Windhoek, guiding you through the remarkable diversity of Namibia. Explore Sossusvlei’s iconic sandscapes, hike to ancient rock engravings, and unwind with Viennese-style treats in charming towns. Wildlife abounds: sit quietly by watering holes, observing elephants and antelope in their natural habitat, or marvel at Namibia’s ever-changing geology. As night falls, look up to see the desert sky lit by a tapestry of stars. Accommodation, transport, and meals are included, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free adventure. The main activity is wildlife viewing and gentle exploration, with a relaxed pace suitable for families and travelers of all ages. The tour’s standout feature is the seamless blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and accessible adventure, making it an ideal choice for multigenerational groups seeking unforgettable memories together. Discover Namibia’s wonders on a trip where every day brings a new natural marvel.

13 days

Namibia Lodge Safari

4.9(34 reviews)

Take an unforgettable journey across Namibia's changing landscapes. Explore dramatic canyons, towering sand dunes and magnificent national parks in search of wildlife. By night, enjoy sundowners at remote lodges, surrounded by Namibia's astounding nature. Sossusvlei - Witness the vibrant colours of the world's highest sand dunes in the planet's oldest desert. Etosha National Park - Head out on game drives in one of Africa's great parks, home to four of the Big 5. Coastal Namibia - Visit Walvis Bay Lagoon, Cape Cross seal colony and the beautiful seaside town of Swakopmund.

12 days

Journeys: Discover Namibia & Victoria Falls

5.0(11 reviews)

Namibia beckons the adventurous with its surreal, otherworldly beauty, and the Journeys: Discover Namibia & Victoria Falls tour is your ticket to explore it all. Over 12 days, experienced travelers and seniors will traverse from Windhoek’s lively capital through the crimson dunes of Namib-Naukluft National Park, the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha, and onward to the mighty Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Easy-paced 4x4 excursions reveal the ancient survival strategies of the San people, while stops at bustling markets and sampling of traditional foods offer a taste of authentic local culture. The tour’s grand finale—a visit to Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls—ensures a dramatic and memorable conclusion. A unique feature of this trip is its deep dive into local traditions and landscapes, combining thrilling wildlife experiences with fascinating cultural insights.

12 days

Cape & Dunes Discoverer

5.0(8 reviews)

The "Cape & Dunes Discoverer" tour offers a captivating 12-day wildlife and nature adventure from Windhoek to Cape Town, perfect for experienced travelers seeking variety and comfort. Traverse the dramatic landscapes of Etosha National Park, Lambert’s Bay, and Africa’s largest canyon, while alternating between hotels, camping, and guesthouses for a well-rounded experience. Safari drives, hikes on towering dunes, and cultural encounters are all orchestrated by a knowledgeable CEO, ensuring seamless exploration and plenty of time to recharge. The unique selling point? A thoughtfully curated itinerary blending stunning scenery, wildlife spectacles, and cultural charm—delivering a truly only-in-Africa experience.

12 days

Namibia to Victoria Falls Explorer

5.0(2 reviews)

Journey from the Namib Desert’s towering red dunes to the thundering Victoria Falls on the Namibia to Victoria Falls Explorer, a 14-day scenic camping safari perfect for seasoned travelers. Starting in Windhoek, this small group trip combines walks among the world’s highest sand dunes, wildlife-rich game drives in Etosha and Chobe National Parks, and a cruise along the Okavango Delta’s waterways. Experience flamingos at Walvis Bay, the coastal charm of Swakopmund, and the wildlife spectacle of the Caprivi Strip before culminating at Victoria Falls. The unique selling point is the tour’s fully serviced camping format, providing the comfort and camaraderie of a well-supported safari while maximizing time for wildlife viewing and cultural discoveries. This trip is a must for those eager to experience the full spectrum of southern Africa’s natural wonders.

14 days

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights