The Ultimate Namibian Self-Drive Adventure.

(Disclaimer: GTA strongly advises travellers to consult the relevant COVID-19 safety regulations and government restrictions at the time of travelling. Visitors to Namibia should fact-check this with the current COVID-19 situation.)

Follow us as we travel for three weeks through Namibia’s awe-inspiring landscape. Home to the sky-scraping dunes of Sossusvlei, the dramatic Fish River Canyon and the magnificent mountains of Spitzkoppe.

We travelled via the N7 > Noordoewer > Grunau > Keetmanshoop > Mariental > Rehoboth > Windhoek > Okahandja > Swakopmund > Hentiesbaai > Spitzkoppe > Goanikontes-Oasis > Walvis Bay > Fish River Canyon > Noordoewer.

We recommend splitting the drive into a few short trips as there is much to see and do. Here are some suggestions.

  1. Windhoek

We briefly stopped over in Windhoek, a modern city home to German castles, cathedrals, delicious foods, and German beers.

Where to Stay:

If you want to be close to the city’s top tourist attractions, it is best to book into an urban hotel.

Things to do:

– Visit the famous Christuskirche landmark.

– Shop at the Namibia Craft Center.

– Enjoy drinks on the rooftop at the Hilton Hotel.

– Visit the display of Gibeon Meteorites at Post Street Mall.

– Have a meal and a beer at Joe’s Beerhouse.

– Visit the National Botanic Garden of Namibia.

2. Spitzkoppe

Spitzkoppe is a unique rock utopia of bald granite peaks and mountain ranges.

Where to Stay:

To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the Spitzkoppe, we advise staying at the community-run campsite, which allows you to stargaze at night and explore the secret caves of Namib. They hire out tents and bedding.

Things to do :

– Collect gemstones on the side of the road.

– Support the local inhabitants by buying their crafts, crystals and semi-precious stones.

– Book a Rock Art tour.

– Tackle one of the many hiking trails.

3. Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay is a paradise for adventure lovers. Thrill-seekers enjoy taking on the dunes in their off-road vehicles. Fishing season starts in January and ends in April, and there is much excitement amongst fishermen when the Kabeljou run. Flamingos and pelicans migrate to the lagoon, and visitors can watch the spectacle from the boardwalk.

Where to Stay:

If you want to see the flamingos, there are many accommodations places around the lagoon.

Things to Do:

– Quad bike on the dunes.

– Go on a living desert tour. Find the desert chameleon and the prehistoric Welwitschia plant endemic to the Namib.

-Climb Dune 7. It is one third the height of Table Mountain!

– Watch pelicans and flamingos on the lagoon.

4. Swakopmund

This quaint German-influenced town is famous for its bustling social life. Restaurants, side-walk cafes and bars featuring live music are popular with Windhoek weekenders. Oompah Bands, traditional German fare served with an endless supply of cold German beers, make for a festive atmosphere.

Where to Stay:

Stunning oceanfront apartments, German guesthouses, upmarket backpackers, Swiss Castles and hotels are all available.

Things to do:

– Visit the Kristall Galerie. (Currently closed.)

– Visit the National Marine Aquarium.

– Browse through the refurbished Woermannhaus, which is now an art gallery and library.

– Visit the Goanikontes-Oasis. This day trip takes you through the famous Moon Landscape.

5. Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon, found in the south of Namibia, is the second-largest canyon globally and is 550m deep, 27km wide, and 160km long. An 85km hiking trail along the gorge is popular amongst hiking enthusiasts and starts at Hobas and ends at Ai-Ais Hot Springs. A shuttle service provides transport between the two towns.

Where to Stay:

There are hot spring resorts and camping sites available.

Things to do:

– Hike the Fish River Canyon trail.

– Canoe down the Orange River.

– Relax in hot springs.

There are many different routes to explore; however, there will always be a great deal of natural beauty and adventure along the way.

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