8 Days Namibia’s Iconic Canyons & Deserts

We begin our journey in Windhoek and move into Africa’s largest sand mass, the Kalahari Desert. Due to its lack of permanent surface water, the Kalahari is difficult to live in, except for those who have succeeded in not only surviving but also flourishing. It is known as the “Soul of the World” by the Bushmen. There is still a surprising amount of wildlife adapted to its deep red dunes, prairies, and shrubs, all interspersed with acacia trees and shrubs. During an optional nature drive, you can observe wildlife and plants and learn about the red dunes.

Through rocky plains and arid areas, we continue south. In Garas, quiver trees and aloes grow among enormous boulders of dolerite in a serene, timeless garden surrounded by quirky scrap metal sculptures. The area is also affectionately called “Giant’s Playground” due to its mysteriously stacked boulders. In the next few minutes, we will be at our lodge, which is close to the Fish River Canyon. Discover the Quiver trees, rugged landscape and impressive sweeping rock formations on foot or via a guided nature drive later in the afternoon

As we gaze into this magnificent geological phenomenon in the Fish River Canyon, our morning starts. A gigantic ravine that measures over 160 km long, up to 27 km wide, and in places almost 550 meters deep, the Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world and is located in northern Nama Karoo. The Fish River is the longest interior river found in Namibia, but its current flow is just a drop compared with the immense volume of water that poured down its length in ages past. Following the Naute dam, we stop at the Naute Kristall Cellar and Distillery for a delicious coffee or some of their unique liquors (optional). As we continue our journey, we reach Lüderitz, a coastal town. The Wild Horses of the Namib Desert can be seen at Garub on the way to Lüderitz. Taking the scenic route along Lüderitz’s “Große Bucht” we enjoy the fresh sea breeze, stopping for a picnic as we pass through Lüderitz. Our guesthouse awaits us when we return to Lüderitz.

The morning begins with a visit to the ghost town of Kolmanskop after an early breakfast. The restricted area national park contains the abandoned diamond mining town Kolmanskop. A monument to the Diamond Boom and built to last, it was once an opulent and decadent town. This haunting monument to a bygone era stands as a haunting reminder of Kolmanskop’s thriving past. We continue north through vast open plains, stopping for a light lunch (included in our Superior tour) in Helmeringhausen before continuing to our Namib Desert lodge along the Tiras Mountain range. In Sesriem, you’ll find some of the world’s highest dunes towering over the white desert plains, including Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei and Sesriem Canyon. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the sparkling pool, take in the vast plains of the desert, or participate in optional activities.

Early mornings call for early starts. Upon entering Namib Naukluft National Park shortly after sunrise, the sand-covered mountains are enraptured by the first rays of sunlight, which turn them into a variety of apricot, red, and orange, juxtaposed against the crisp blue skyline, capturing our senses and offering us a photo opportunity. Among the tallest dunes on earth, Deadvlei will take your breath away, as will Sossusvlei, where the dry Tsauchab River abruptly ends amid dunes. Explore the desert landscape beneath these majestic dunes by walking up one of them. Our next stop will be the Sesriem Canyon, a living natural phenomenon in the Namib Desert, after which we will return to the lodge and cool off in the swimming pool or with a refreshing drink in one of the quiet retreats on the property.

On our way to the Atlantic Ocean, we approach the little settlement of Solitaire on the edge of the Namib Naukluft National Park, feeling as if we have arrived in the middle of nowhere. We then travel through the Kuiseb Valley, a desolate valley with rolling hills. As we arrive at Walvis Bay, one of Africa’s most important wetlands and a RAMSAR Site, we visit its shallow lagoon. This lagoon is home to over 80% of Africa’s lesser flamingos, which present an amazing sight when they are gathered together. The rest of the day is spent at leisure in Swakopmund, which is situated between the dune belt and the Atlantic Ocean. Swakopmund is a popular holiday destination thanks to its palm-lined streets and seaside promenades. Anglers and surfers from all over Southern Africa are attracted to its pleasant summer climate and long, sandy beaches. In Swakopmund, German architecture is mixed with African rhythms, there is a laid-back attitude combined with adrenalin activities, misty mornings, and desert heat. In addition to being colourful and vibrant, it is also a lot of fun.

There are numerous activities and attractions to enjoy in Swakopmund, known as the “playground of Namibia”. Among these are thrilling adventures, exploring the fascinating features of the Namib Desert, as well as animal and plant life that thrive here. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and coffee at one of the many cafés in this picturesque coastal town. Take a day tour or a scenic flight to explore the rugged, sweltering desert. Skydiving over the desert or quad biking and sand boarding on the dunes are just a few ways you can unleash your inner child and push adrenaline to the limit. This quaint town has transformed into a personality of its own through the vibrant use of colour and a bohemian lifestyle by combining historical buildings, museums, shopping arcades, and a beach bar.

Your tour comes to an end today. As soon as breakfast is finished, a transfer takes us back to Windhoek to our hotel or to the international airport in time to catch our flight home. Please consider booking flights out of Windhoek no earlier than 19h00.