While the Orange River was named after the Dutch Royal House, in recent times it has been referred to by its original name of Gariep, which simply means “river” in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language. Beginning its journey in the mountains of Lesotho, the Orange River is the longest river in South Africa and offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes along its banks. The best way to experience the river is by getting out on the water and this morning we have the opportunity to join an optional canoe trip on the river.  Around midday (after lunch) we depart the Orange River and head inland, crossing the border into Namibia.  We make a brief stop at the mineral hot springs for a dip in the pool before arriving at our camp in the late afternoon.  

Route: Orange/Gariep River to Fish River Canyon 
Optional Activity: Half-day canoe trip

 

We rise early this morning, pack up our camp, making our way to the rim of the Fish River Canyon.  We arrive in time to catch the morning sunrays filter through the canyon.  After stretching our legs with a gentle walk along the rim of the canyon, we turn west and head for Keetmanshoop. Our afternoon will be spent meandering through the Quiver Tree Forest and The Giants Playground – named for the way in which the massive dolerite boulders have been placed on each other - creating rock formations and a series of mazes.  

Route : Fish River Canyon to Keetmanshoop 
Included Highlights : Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon / Visit to Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground
 

Reluctantly we leave the Namib behind and after a stop to mark our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn, we continue to the Atlantic coastline. Today we continue west and make our way to the coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure and a dose of civilisation await. We make a brief stop at the Walvis Bay lagoon, where we hope to catch a glimpse of the Flamingo’s that feed in the shallows. Arriving in Swakopmund we will have the opportunity to book some of the many adventures on offer. 

Route : Naukluft Area to Swakopmund 
Included Activity : Tropic of Capricorn, Walvis Bay Lagoon 
 

While for many it is the adrenaline fuelled adventures that will grab their attention, Swakopmund offers all that and more. Take the opportunity today to explore the town at your leisure, as there are a number of attractions for every taste. Not to be missed is the selection of famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a delightful range of German inspired treats.  Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a small city and is the perfect launching pad for the journey through the northern reaches of the land.

Optional Activity : Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, sandboarding, Quad biking, Dinner
 

Leaving early, we make our way to the massive granite formations of Spitzkoppe which tower 700 metres above the desert plains below. The presence of rock art indicates their significance to the San people who lived here many years ago. We will enjoy a walk with a local guide and have the opportunity to view some examples of the San’s rock art before setting off for our overnight stop for the evening.    

Route : Swakopmund to Brandberg (via Spitzkoppe) 
Included Highlight : Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide 
 

The Brandberg (Burning Mountains) are regarded as the highest in Namibia and home to the famous White Lady, one of more than 45,000 rock paintings in the area.  This morning we will make the 1-hour hike to visit the painting that is said to be around 2,000 years old. (Please be advised that the hike does traverse rough terrain along the gorge of the normally dry Tsisab River).  After our exploration, our journey continues to the area of Kamanjab.  We will arrive at our overnight stop in the afternoon and you will be given the opportunity to participate in an optional activity visit to the Himba Tribe.  

Route : Uis to Kamanjab 
Included Highlight : Brandberg White Lady hike
Optional Activity : Himba Tribe visit 
 

Rising early this morning we drive to the Etosha National Park. Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. This afternoon we reach the park and begin with our first game drive as we make our way to the rest camp. 

Route : Kamanjab to Etosha National Park 
Included Highlight : Afternoon game drive in truck 
 

Our second day in Etosha allows for a full day to continue our exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the suspense before that special sighting is the motivation that keeps our eyes wide open.  We explore the edges of Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occurs in the park. 

Route : Etosha National Park 
Included Highlight : Full day game drive in truck 
 

It is an early rise as we take aim for Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. Upon arrival in Windhoek, we will take a short walk through the city centre and have the opportunity to view some its better known landmarks. (Our accommodation for the night is situated halfway between the city and the airport).

Route :  Etosha National Park to Windhoek
Included Highlight : Walk through Windhoek with your guide
 

Today we travel east and make our way to neighbouring Botswana and the Kalahari Desert. Starkly different to the Namib Desert after which Namibia is named, the Kalahari is no less dramatic and covers over 900 000 square kilometres. The San people have long been associated with this harsh environment and this afternoon we will enjoy an informative guided walk with the San community.  Tonight we enjoy a dance evening that provides an insight into their culture of song, dance and story-telling. 

Route : Windhoek to Ghanzi 
Included Highlight : San Tribal dance in evening / San Guided Walk (this activity could take place the next morning)

 

The most rewarding and enjoyable way to explore and experience the beauty and serenity of this intricate system of lily covered channels and lagoons is by mokoro.  Heading out early, we will be transferred by safari vehicle to the poling station (approximately 1 hour transfer) where we will meet the polers who will be escorting us into the Delta.  The polers will steer us through the serene area of narrow, reed lined channels which open out onto beautiful lagoons.  Reaching one of the many islands, a nature walk may be taken with your poler.  After the walk, we return by mokoro through the channels back to the poling station.  While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be spotted in this pristine wilderness area, including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra. 

Route : Maun – poling station – Okavango Delta - Maun
Included Highlight : Okavango Delta Day Excursion 
 

We rise early this morning as we continue north to our camp on the banks of the Chobe River. This afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. We begin our exploration in 4x4 vehicles, which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons. The afternoon ends with a leisurely boat cruise and a meal served around the campfire.  

Route : Nata to Kasane 
Activity Package :  Chobe National Park Game Drive, Chobe National Park boat cruise
 

Your tour comes to an end after breakfast and with the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suits your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a flight over the Falls, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls. 

Accommodation : Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked through Nomad.
Optional Activity : Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting