8 day Southern Namibia Canyons & Deserts Tour visiting the Kalahari Desert, Fish River Canyon, Lüderitz, Namib Desert, and Sossusvlei plus Swakopmund. This tour departs Windhoek on selected Tuesdays and finishes a week later in Windhoek.
Discover the beauty of Namibia and some of its deserts in the south of the country. From the undulating and vegetated dunes of the Kalahari Desert. To the rocky plains and majestic Fish River Canyon of the succulent Nama Karoo. Visit Garub; which is the viewing point for the Wild Horses of the Namib Desert, en-route to the coastal town of Lüderitz. Then go to the deserted ghost town of Kolmanskop. Onwards to the majestic star dunes and surreal vleis of the Namib Desert and quaint town of Swakopmund. This 8 day tour is interspersed with game drives and fun and provides the most incredible landscapes.
The tour is available at 2 different costs – Superior & Classic. The Classic Package is on a Bed & Breakfast basis and therefore more affordable. While the Superior Tour includes breakfast, and dinner and has more inclusions. Please note dinner is not included in Swakopmund.
Full Itinerary Southern Namibia Canyons and Deserts Tour ↓
Day 1, Kalahari Desert
Leaving Windhoek, we travel into the enormous sand mass on Earth, the Kalahari Desert. The Kalahari is a vast semi-desert of wind blown sand; held by a sparse mantle of thorn scrub. Making it the most extensive continuous stretch of sand covering 9 African countries. Unlike other true deserts, the Kalahari does receive erratic rainfall. For many, therefore; “thirstland” is a more fitting description. Lacking permanent surface water, the Kalahari is a challenging place to live; except for those who have adapted to not only survive; but flourish here. The Bushmen refer to it as the “Soul of the World”, an emotive description for this area! With its deep red dunes and endless grass plains interspersed with acacia and shrubs; it is still home to a surprisingly large amount of specially adapted wildlife.
Enjoy the opportunity to experience the red dunes, wildlife, and plants, in this desert environment; on an optional nature drive. On the Superior Tour, this nature drive is included.
Classic: Intu Afrika Collection Superior: Intu Afrika Collection – dinner & a nature drive in the Kalahari
Day 2, Fish River Canyon
We continue south through arid and extensive rocky plains. Visiting the unique Garas quiver tree forest with its quirky human-made sculptures of scrap metal; which set a contrast to this serene, timeless space with Quiver trees and aloes; nestled amongst huge dolerite boulders, stacked mysteriously; also aptly referred to as “Giant’s Playground”.
We continue to our lodge, situated in close vicinity to the Fish River Canyon. Here we can explore the area on foot or an optional guided nature drive in the later afternoon; highlighting the Quiver trees, rugged landscape, and impressive sweeping rock formations.
Classic: Canyon Village on a Bed & Breakfast basis Superior: Canyon Lodge – Breakfast, and dinner
Fish River Canyon
Day 3, Lüderitz
Our morning starts on the edge of the Fish River Canyon where we gaze into this magnificent geological phenomenon. The Fish River Canyon is located in the northern part of the Nama Karoo. It is the second-largest canyon on earth featuring a gigantic ravine; that measures in total about 160 km long, up to 27 km wide; in places almost 550 meters deep! The Fish River is the longest interior river 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.
We continue our journey past the Naute dam, where we shortly stop at the Naute Kristall Cellar and Distillery; to optionally taste some of the unique liquors or simply enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. Proceeding on wards we head towards the coastal town of Lüderitz.
On the way to Lüderitz, we stop at Garub, a viewing point for the Wild Horses of the Namib Desert.
Arriving in Lüderitz we recommend stopping at Diaz Café; for an optional fresh and delicious seafood snack before heading out along the “Große Bucht” towards Diaz Point. Your hosts for the evening will have you enjoying a typical Namibian homestay feeling and atmosphere.
Classic: Lüderitz Nest Hotel on a Bed & Breakfast basis Superior: Lüderitz Nest Hotel in a Superior Room – Breakfast, and dinner
Day 4, Namib Desert
After an early breakfast, our morning starts with a visit to Kolmanskop ghost town. Kolmanskop is a deserted Diamond Mining Town in the Sperrgebiet National Park. Once an opulent and decadent town. A monument to the diamond boom. It was built to last but the diamonds ran out. Today, Kolmanskop stands as a haunting monument to the thriving past. Offering visitor’s unique photo opportunities of a bygone era.
We continue across vast open plains; stopping for an optional light lunch (included in the Superior tour) in the countryside town of Helmeringhausen. Continuing further north along with the Tiras Mountain range to our lodge in the Namib Desert. We are staying close to Sesriem. The gateway to Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei, and Sesriem Canyon. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the sparkling pool, enjoying the vast open desert plains. Or taking part in optional activities offered at the lodge.
Classic: The Elegant Desert Lodge on a Bed & Breakfast basis Superior: Sossusvlei Lodge – Breakfast, and dinner
Day 5, Namib Desert
The following morning we enter the Namib Naukluft National Park shortly after sunrise. The first rays of sunlight paint the mountains of sand into a variety of apricot, red, and orange. This is contrasted against a crisp blue skyline. Enrapturing your senses and providing an opportunity to photograph this impressive landscape. You will be captivated by the surreal Deadvlei. Surrounded by some of the highest dunes on earth and Sossusvlei. Take the opportunity to walk up one of these majestic dunes to admire the desert landscape beneath.
After this thrilling experience we visit the Sesriem Canyon. A life sustaining natural phenomenon in the heart of the Namib Desert before returning to our lodge. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Cooling off at the swimming pool or with a refreshing drink at one of the quiet retreats all around the lodge.
Classic: The Elegant Desert Lodge on a Bed & Breakfast basis Superior: Sossusvlei Lodge – Breakfast, and dinner
Sossusvlei and the Dead Vlei
Day 6, Swakopmund
After breakfast we continue our journey approaching the little settlement of Solitaire. It is on the edge of the Namib Naukluft National Park. Where you feel like you have arrived in the middle of nowhere. Before traveling via the desolate, rolling hills of the Kuiseb Valley towards the Atlantic Ocean. Reaching the coastal harbor town of Walvis Bay, we visit the shallow lagoon. One of the most important wetland areas on the African continent, and a RAMSAR World Heritage Site. Over 80% of Africa’s lesser flamingos breed in this lagoon and present a breathtaking picture when they appear in groups.
Continuing along the scenic route between the dune belt and the Atlantic Ocean we reach Swakopmund. With palm lined streets and seaside promenades, Swakopmund is a popular holiday destination in Namibia. Its pleasant summer climate and long stretched beaches attract anglers and surfers from all over Southern Africa. For the international guest, Swakopmund is a bohemian mix of German architecture and African rhythms. A laid back attitude with adrenaline activities, misty mornings, and desert heat. It is colorful, it is vibrant, but most of all, it is pure fun.
Classic: Hansa Hotel on a Bed & Breakfast basis Superior: Swakopmund Luxury Suites – Breakfast
Day 7, Swakopmund
Swakopmund is fondly called the “playground of Namibia” because it has numerous activities. Ranging from adventure to exploring the fascinating features of the Namib Desert, and the animals and plants that occur and survive here. Embrace the relaxed pace of this idyllic coastal town. While enjoying coffee and freshly baked pastries in one of the many ‘German’ cafés.
Alternatively explore the rugged, sweltering desert on a day tour. Or view this awesome, environment from the air on a scenic flight. Find your inner child and push adrenaline to its limits with extreme adventures. Such as skydiving over the desert or quad biking and sand boarding on the dunes. Take time to get the feel of this quaint town. With its historic buildings, museums, and shopping arcades. There is also a fabulous beach bar in Swakopmund.
Classic: Hansa Hotel on a Bed & Breakfast basis Superior: Swakopmund Luxury Suites – Breakfast
Day 8, Return to Windhoek
After breakfast, a transfer takes us back to Windhoek to our hotel or the international airport for your return flight. Breakfast
8 day Namibia Canyons & Deserts Tour Package Rates
Rates are in Namibian Dollars (N$) which is equivalent to the South African Rand:
Canyons & Deserts Tour Package Rates
1st November 2024 until 31st October 2025
Per Person Sharing
Single Supplement
Classic Tour
N$ 38 520
N$ 3 560
Superior Tour
N$ 68 250
N$ 7 525
Supplement to include dinner on the Classic Package is N$ 3 300 until 31st October 2025.
Purchase the activity package for the classic tour in advance: N$ 1 735 Includes: Sundowner Drive @ The Elegant Desert Lodge Catamaran Marine Cruise
Canyons & Deserts Tour Departure Dates and Details
The Canyons & Deserts Tour departs on some Tuesdays on a scheduled basis (with other people). However; this tour can depart on any date on request on a private basis. The tour is available with an English or with a English and German speaking guide.
Please note there is no pre or post day in Windhoek which is advisable; due to the scheduled times of these tours. Arrival flights on the day of tour departure to be no later than 9 am from Windhoek Last Day of the tour, it’s advisable to book a flight departing Windhoek International at 7 pm or later.
Min / Max people on the Classic / Affordable tour: 2 / 16 Min / Max people on the Superior / Upmarket tour: 2 / 6
The tour dates in red are at discounted prices as follows: Classic Tour on a bed & breakfast basis: N$ 34 670 per person sharing Classic Tour on a dinner, bed & breakfast basis: N$ 37 960 per person sharing The Classic Tour dinner supplement remains the same. Superior Tour: N$ 61 425 per person sharing and N$ 6 720 single supplement.
The tour dates in pink are dates when no single supplement is required.
Canyons & Deserts Tour Departure days
Bilingual Tours
English Tours
2024
November
5, 19, 26
12
December
3, 10
–
2025
January
7, 21
–
February
4, 18
–
March
18
4
April
15, 22, 29
1
May
13
27
June
10
24
July
8, 22, 29
15
August
12, 19, 26
5
September
9, 16, 23
2, 30
October
7, 14, 21, 28
14
Canyons & Deserts Tour Package Rates Include
Transport and meals as mentioned: Classic: 7x Breakfasts Superior: 7x Breakfasts; 5x Dinners
Entrance Fees: Fish River Canyon; Namib Naukluft National Park
Portages Still Mineral Water on vehicle Activities as specified Accommodation as specified Tourism levy & Government Taxes where applicable 24hrs Medical Evacuation Insurance
Classic Option: Information Pack and plastic water bottle Superior Option: Deluxe Travel Planner and aluminum water bottle
Social Support: With this tour you donate to the Bishop Kameeta (Kindergarden). Guests on the Superior tour receive a reusable STEEL WATER BOTTLE (Supporting “TOSCO” – Tourism supporting Conservation)
Canyons & Deserts Tour Package Rates Excludes
Travel insurance, flights, airport transfers, gratuities, visa fees, optional activities, and personal expenses
The above accommodation is subject to availability but we will offer you a similar alternative if it is not available.
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