Namibia vs South Africa Itinerary A Lifetime Experience

Explore the untouched landscapes and wildlife of South Africa vs Namibia, where vibrant cities like Cape Town and Windhoek sit side by side with entrepreneurial spirit. See almost certain sightings of the “Big 5” in Africa’s two biggest national parks, Kruger and Etosha. The Namib desert is a surreal and isolated place, but it is also home to some of the world’s biggest sand dunes. Indulge in a home-hosted meal while immersing yourself in Cape Town’s diverse culture. Meet some endangered African penguins at Boulders Beach and become friends with them. Immerse yourself in the German-influenced beach town of Swakopmund, nestled between the desert and the ocean. Explore the area surrounding the world-renowned Skeleton Coast, a place teeming with sunken ships. Explore the wonders of Southern Africa on an adventurous journey that will take you from desolate plains to lively seaside towns.

Safari Dreams in South Africa & Namibia

Complete Namibia vs South Africa Itinerary

Day 1: Overnight Flight

South Africa and Namibia, two countries with rich histories and home to some of the world’s most breathtaking natural scenery, diverse animals, and fascinating cultures, are on your route. The Sossusvlei dunes and the Cape Town coasts will provide an unforgettable backdrop for your adventure.

Day 2: Johannesburg, South Africa

Your overnight flight will drop you off in Johannesburg. Rest up tonight at the airport hotel before your early morning trip to Namibia tomorrow.

Day 3: Johannesburg – Windhoek, Namibia – Sossusvlei

Take a flight to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, today. Namibia is a young African country and one of the world’s least inhabited, making it an intriguing tourist destination in Southern Africa. This frontier nation caught most people off guard when it declared independence from South Africa not long ago. Visit one of Namibia’s most breathtaking sites, Sossusvlei, after touching down in Windhoek. After a long day of driving, you should reach your lodge in plenty of time to unpack and have your first meal together as a group.

Day 4: Sossusvlei

Go on an adventure you will never forget. If you want to make the most of your time in one of the most striking natural settings in Namibia—the Namib desert’s red sand dunes—you need get an early start. Located in the Sossusvlei region, among the world’s tallest dunes, this landscape is straight out of a science fiction film. Deadvlei, a salt pan known for its old petrified trees, can be reached by climbing one of these massive dunes. The Namib desert is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for landscape photographers and nature lovers. See the oryx, the most well-known resident of this area, and learn about the creatures’ adaptations to its extreme climate.

Day 5: Sossusvlei – Swakopmund

Swakopmund, a beach hamlet, awaits you after you bid farewell to the Namib desert. A desert oasis unlike any other, Swakopmund is home to marine life, historic buildings from the German colonial era, and access to the Skeleton Coast. Explore the Welwitschia Plains and Moon Valley this afternoon to get a better sense of the uniqueness of Namibia. The country’s hyper-arid climate is ideal for endemic plant species, which are found nowhere else in the world.

Day 6: Swakopmund

Get in your car and head to Walvis Bay this morning to go on a boat ride in search of dolphins, seals, and pelicans. Find out from your cruise directors what makes this region special for these fish and other marine creatures. Keep on exploring until you reach Pelican Point, where you can see some pink feathered companions and the many ship wrecks that give this area its fame.

Day 7: Swakopmund – Etosha National Park

As we depart from this stunning coastline, we will be entering Etosha, the second national park in Namibia. Along the route, you can stop at a winery that is pioneering the production of wines and spirits from Namibia for a sampling and lunch. Afterwards this afternoon, make your way to your quaint lodge and unwind before enjoying supper while gazing out over the African wilderness.

Day 8: Etosha National Park

Set off on your inaugural game drive first thing in the morning. Seek out lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and antelopes of various kinds in open safari vehicles. Wildebeest will meet you at watering holes, and ostriches will be waiting for you around every bend. Before setting out on your afternoon game drive, head back to the lodge for lunch. Wrap out the day thinking about the bizarre scenery of salt flats and the free-living animals that inhabit them.

Day 9: Etosha National Park

Join an enclosed vehicle game drive for the entire day instead of the safari vehicles today. If you’re still hungry for adventure, you can always upgrade to open vehicles if you so choose.

Day 10: Etosha National Park – Windkoek

Make it back to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, on the final stage of this adventure around the country. Even though it’s the capital, take advantage of your free afternoon to relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Then, over dinner, gather with your other travelers to reminisce about your journey in Namibia.

Day 11: Windhoek – Cape Town, South Africa

Make an impactful stop at Penduka during your last day in Namibia. Discover how Penduka utilizes traditional craftwork and skill sharing to benefit the local community and further its aim of promoting gender equality and empowering women. After that, make your way to the airport to catch a trip to Cape Town, South Africa. Before you turn in for the day, spend the evening as an honored guest at the house of a Capetonian family. Have a meal together and learn about one other’s lives in Cape Town.

Day 12: Cape Town

Discover Cape Town’s untouched beauty today. Make your way to the most westerly point in Africa, Cape Point. Be amazed by the contrast between the vivid blue seas below and the verdant greenery that covers the rocky outcrops. Stop at Boulders Beach on your way to the Cape of Good Hope for an unforgettable black-tie event – a chance to see endangered African penguins! Go back to the city by way of Table Bay.

Day 13: Cape Town

Learn about the rich cultural tapestry of South Africa today. Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain in South Africa and marvel at the scenery as you go. From there, you can see Robben Island, Lions Head, and Cape Town. Then, go on a city tour to see the ancient buildings, cultural icons, and modern metropolis. Take advantage of your free afternoon to unwind at your hotel or continue exploring this captivating city at your leisure.

Day 14: Cape Town – Johannesburg – Kruger National Park

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and into the breathtaking wilderness of South Africa. While traveling to South Africa’s biggest wildlife reserve, Kruger National Park, hop on a plane to Johannesburg. Arrive at your accommodation, which is conveniently situated on the banks of the Sabie River and just at the park’s entrance.

Day 15: Kruger National Park

Before you go on a full day of game driving, make sure you have your camera! As you travel through classic South African landscapes in your open-air vehicle, keep an eye out for the “Big 5”. After a traditional South African braai lunch with locally sourced meats, you can unwind for the afternoon game drive.

Day 16: Kruger National Park

For your final chance to see the magnificent landscapes and creatures you have come to see, set off on another full-day game drive. At supper this evening, you and your fellow explorers can say goodbye to the wonderful locations you’ve visited over your incredible journey across Africa.

Day 17: Kruger National Park – Johannesburg – Tour Ends

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

End of the Namibia vs South Africa Itinerary