Nieks' journey through Namibia and South Africa

Day notes

Day 1 & 2: The Watery Wilderness of iSimangaliso

Today marks the beginning of your wonderful 30-day Southern African adventure! Your journey starts with a flight from vibrant Cape Town to subtropical Durban. Upon arrival at the airport, your first rental car—a robust SUV perfectly suited for the East Coast roads—will be waiting for you. Once your luggage is loaded, you’ll leave the city behind and head north on a 2.5-hour drive to the world-renowned iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You will spend two nights at the stunning Makakatana Bay Lodge. To reach the lodge, you’ll enter the park through the Nhlozi Gate; a spectacular entrance where you might encounter your first wildlife before even checking in! With a two-night stay, you have plenty of time to explore the unique ecosystems of this park.

During your stay, several activities are included to fully immerse you in nature:

• Boat Safari: Explore Lake St. Lucia, Africa's largest estuary, from the water. This is the ultimate way to admire hippos and crocodiles up close while countless water birds soar overhead.

• Coastal Safari: A unique game drive that connects the bush with the ocean. As you drive over the dunes towards pristine beaches, you might spot rhinos and buffaloes, only to reach the coastline and see dolphins or (in season) whales breaching in the surf.

• Game Drives: Head out in the afternoon or early morning with an experienced guide to discover the diverse wildlife that calls the forests and plains of iSimangaliso home.

Day notes

Day 3 & 4: Pristine Coastlines and Ocean Safaris

After two days in the wetlands, it’s time to head to a completely different world: the rugged coast of Maputaland. Today, you’ll travel to a unique beach lodge tucked away in the coastal dunes. Due to its remote location, this hidden gem is only accessible by 4x4. You’ll leave your rental car safely at Librodi Lodge, where you’ll be picked up at 12:00 PM for an adventurous transfer through the sand to the shore.

You’ll spend two nights here, surrounded by the sound of the Indian Ocean and the tranquility of the coastal forest. You have total freedom to choose between ocean adventures or simply relaxing on the beach.

Several impressive activities are included during your stay:

• Open Ocean Experience: This is essentially a safari at sea! Since there are no other operators in the area, you’ll have the ocean all to yourself. Head out to spot dolphins, whales, or sea turtles in a pristine, untouched reef.

• Snorkeling & Diving: Discover the vibrant underwater world at Mabibi. Marvel at exotic fish and, if you're lucky, you might even swim alongside dolphins or whale sharks.

• Turtle Tracking (Seasonal): A truly magical experience where you can witness a mother turtle laying her eggs on the very beach where she was born, or watch the tiny hatchlings make their first brave crawl toward the sea.

• Nature & Culture: Enjoy a peaceful forest walk, go kayaking on serene lakes, or learn about local traditions during a Tsonga cultural tour.

Day notes

Day 5 - 7: Searching for the Big Five in Manyoni

We hope you enjoyed your time on the coast at Thonga Beach Lodge! After breakfast, the 4x4 transfer will take you back to your car. Get ready for one of our absolute favorite safari destinations in South Africa: Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge, located within the impressive Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

After a short drive of about 2 hours, you’ll arrive just in time for lunch and the afternoon game drive. You’ll spend three nights here, which means you’ll enjoy no fewer than 6 guided game drives (all included!). This significantly increases your chances of spotting the full Big Five and countless other species.

During your stay in the bush, look forward to:

• Safari from the Start: Your safari begins the moment you pass through the East Gate of the Manyoni reserve. Keep your eyes peeled and drive slowly, as wildlife can appear anywhere at any time!

• Morning and Afternoon Game Drives: Venture out every day at sunrise and in the late afternoon with expert rangers who know the bush like the back of their hand.

• Ranger’s Coffee: A little tip from us: be sure to ask your guide for an authentic Ranger’s Coffee in the middle of the wilderness during your morning drive.

• Luxury and Serenity: Between safaris, enjoy the lodge's award-winning hospitality and the peaceful sounds of the wild surrounding you.

Day notes

Day 8 - 10: History and Nature at the Foot of the Drakensberg

Hopefully, you managed to spot the entire Big Five during your stay at Leopard Mountain! Today, you’ll trade the dense bush for the stunning vistas of the Drakensberg mountains. Your destination is the charming Three Tree Hill Lodge, a place where nature and history blend seamlessly. It’s a significant road trip of about 5 hours, so we recommend departing by 11:00 AM at the latest.

Important routing tip: Make sure to drive via Pongola. Google Maps sometimes suggests gravel roads that are in poor condition; staying on the main roads is much faster and more comfortable.

During your three-night stay, there are several ways to explore the area:

• Game Walk: Embark on an adventure with a guide in the nearby Spioenkop Game Reserve. This isn’t your average stroll; expect some climbing and scrambling to reach the most beautiful viewpoints and spot wildlife on foot.

• Nature Walk: Explore the lodge’s own grounds during a guided nature walk. Learn about the local flora and fauna while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

• Cultural Village Tour: Visit the nearby village of Hambrook. The lodge supports this community through its own foundation. During this tour, you’ll gain insight into daily life and the foundation's impact on the local community.

• Day Trips: The lodge serves as the perfect base for exploring the region. Feel free to ask the staff for a packed lunch to take with you on your adventures!

Day notes

Day 11 & 12: Welcome to the Magic of Namibia

Today, you leave South Africa behind and begin your wonderful Namibian adventure! After a flight from Johannesburg, you’ll land in Windhoek around 11:00 AM. A quick tip: purchase a local SIM card in the arrivals hall immediately upon landing. Once you’ve picked up your rental car, a 3-hour road trip to your first lodge awaits.

Important tips before you head out:

• Supplies: We recommend stopping at Maerua Mall in Windhoek (Super Spar or Checkers) to stock up on water and snacks. In Namibia’s vast landscapes, supermarkets can be far apart!

• Safety: Make sure to depart immediately after shopping. While the roads are good, it is essential in Namibia to reach your lodge before sunset.

During your two-night stay in this extraordinary environment, be sure to experience:

• Sundown Drive: Drive into the sunset in an open-top jeep. During the 'golden hour,' you’ll watch the landscape transform into a spectacular palette of colors. Enjoy a drink (the famous sundowner) while learning more about the unique local nature.

• Stargazing: Did you know Namibia is one of the best places on Earth for stargazing? Take a seat on your private terrace at night, let the darkness settle in, and lose yourself in the magical sight of thousands of twinkling stars.

Day notes

Day 13: The Magic of the Trans Kalahari Walk

Today features an activity that will stay with you forever: the Trans Kalahari Walk. This is the ultimate way to feel the soul of the desert. You’ll leave the beaten track behind and hike through vast savannas and over iconic red sand dunes accompanied by an experienced guide.

During this trek, you’ll experience the Kalahari at its most authentic:

• Wildlife on Foot: Feel the warm desert breeze as you spot giraffes, oryx, and antelopes grazing among the trees. Encountering these animals without the barrier of a vehicle is a unique and thrilling sensation.

• Luxury in the Wilderness: After the hike, you’ll arrive at a small-scale, luxury dune camp right in the middle of the wild. Take a refreshing dip in the pool or enjoy a warm shower overlooking the sands.

• Campfire & Stargazing: End your day with an authentic African braai by the campfire. As the sounds of the night settle over the camp, you’ll have an unobstructed view of thousands of stars shining above the desert.

• Sunrise: A golden tip: wake up just before dawn. Watching the sun rise behind the shimmering dunes with a warm cup of coffee in hand is a moment of pure African beauty.

This activity is fully included in the price.

Day notes

Day 14 & 15: The Iconic Red Dunes of Sossusvlei

After your time in the Kalahari, it’s time for one of the most photographed places on Earth: Sossusvlei. You’ll spend the next two nights at the stunning Namib Outpost, located just half an hour from the national park entrance. Prepare to be amazed by landscapes so surreal they feel almost otherworldly.

The Route: Today’s drive takes about 4 hours. You’ll have tarred roads until the village of Maltahöhe, after which the route switches to gravel. We recommend departing by 10:30 AM at the latest so you can take your time and enjoy the vast, sweeping vistas along the way.

An extensive tour of Sossusvlei is included during your stay:

• Sossusvlei & Deadvlei Tour: Together with an experienced guide, you’ll discover the majestic dunes of the Namib Desert. Climb the imposing Big Daddy for incredible views and walk across the white clay pan of Deadvlei, where ancient dead trees contrast sharply against the bright blue sky and orange dunes.

• Choose Your Moment: Opt for the morning tour to watch the sun rise spectacularly over the dunes—a true photographer’s dream. Prefer the afternoon? You’ll enjoy a more exclusive experience with fewer crowds.

• Picnic in the Dunes: Wrap up your desert adventure with a lovely picnic in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

This activity is fully included in the price.

Day notes

Day 16: From the Dunes to the Atlantic Coast

Today, you trade the desert heat for the refreshing sea breeze of the coast! Leaving the red dunes behind, you’ll head toward Swakopmund, a charming coastal town where the Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy the sound of the crashing waves and the unique atmosphere of this seaside gem.

The Route: Today’s road trip takes about 4 hours. While navigation systems often suggest a shorter duration, the majority of the route consists of gravel roads, which typically adds an hour to the journey. We recommend departing around 10:00 AM.

Two must-see stops along the way:

• Tropic of Capricorn: Pull over for a photo at the iconic marker of this geographic line.

• Solitaire: A legendary stop in the middle of nowhere. Take a break here for lunch and be sure to try their world-famous apple pie!

During your stay in Namibia’s adventure capital, there is plenty to keep you busy:

• Dune Adventures: Swakopmund is the ultimate place for an adrenaline rush. Try sandboarding down the steep dunes or explore the sand on a quad bike.

• Out on the Water: Opt for a relaxing catamaran cruise from Walvis Bay, where you’ll likely encounter seals and dolphins.

• Wind & Surfing: Thanks to the consistent coastal winds, this is also a prime location for kite and windsurfing enthusiasts.

Day notes

Day 17 & 18: Along the Skeleton Coast to the Rock Engravings of Twyfelfontein

Today, an impressive drive to your next destination, Twyfelfontein, awaits. I recommend taking the coastal route so you can experience a portion of the infamous Skeleton Coast. From Swakopmund, you’ll first head to Henties Bay. From there, you can continue to Cape Cross to admire the world's largest colony of Cape Fur Seals. It’s a remarkable sight, though do keep in mind that the smell can be quite overwhelming!

The Route I recommend departing around 09:00 AM today to ensure you arrive at Twyfelfontein on time. The drive to the lodge takes at least 4 hours, as the roads consist entirely of gravel.

• Tip: Visiting Cape Cross will add about 1.5 hours to your total travel time (including approximately 20 minutes at the site). You can find the location directly on Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/zsjgZ3bJ31q9hHZ29

Supplies Please note: you will not encounter any supermarkets over the next few days. If you'd like snacks or drinks for the road, I suggest doing your grocery shopping at the SuperSpar in Swakopmund before you leave.

• Address: Garnison St, Swakopmund, Namibia.

Activities and Experiences A very special experience awaits you in Twyfelfontein during the Huab Nature Excursion. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of wildlife and ancient history.

• Huab Nature Excursion: Today, you’ll spend the entire day with an expert guide who will teach you everything about this unique area. This region is home to some of the largest and most significant rock engravings (Bushman paintings) in all of Africa. View these ancient artworks up close and, with a bit of luck, you might even encounter the rare desert-adapted elephants along the way!

Day notes

Day 19: The Geological Wonders of the Erongo Mountains

It’s time to hit the road again! After two nights in Twyfelfontein, you’ll continue your journey to the impressive Erongo Mountains, where you’ll spend one night at the beautifully situated Hohenstein Lodge. A special excursion is planned here that will take you deep into the rugged nature of this region.

The Route As is customary in Namibia, a solid 4-hour road trip is on the agenda. It’s important to depart by 09:30 AM at the latest to ensure a relaxed journey. Keep in mind that today’s roads are, once again, entirely gravel!

Activities and Experiences During your stay at Hohenstein, you will join a guided nature walk to learn all about this extraordinary landscape.

• Erongo Guided Walk: Explore the enchanting Erongo Mountains during this guided hike. Your adventure begins with a 20-minute drive in an open-top 4x4 vehicle to the starting point. Your expert guide will share fascinating facts about the unique flora and the geological wonders of the region; this is the very place where gemstones such as tourmaline and aquamarine are discovered! Keep your eyes peeled, as you might spot giraffes, antelopes, and ancient San rock art along the way. You’ll conclude this wonderful day with a spectacular sunset and a well-deserved sundowner.

Day notes

Day 20: A Relaxing Final Day in Namibia

Enjoy a wonderfully relaxing day today, with only the drive back to Windhoek on your schedule. You will reach Windhoek in about 3 hours. I suggest departing by 1:00 PM at the latest, allowing you plenty of time in the morning to explore the beautiful surroundings of the lodge at your own pace. This is your final day in Namibia, so take a moment to soak in those vast horizons one last time. Enjoy!

Day notes

Day 21 & 22: From Namibia to the Vineyards of Franschhoek

Sadly, it is time to leave Namibia, but we hope you cherished every single moment! Today, you fly to Cape Town where the adventure continues; fortunately, it’s not nearly time to head home yet.

Flight and Rental Car Your flight departs today at 1:45 PM. Please ensure you arrive at Windhoek airport by 11:30 AM at the latest. Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you’ll pick up your next rental car and drive to the picturesque Franschhoek, where you’ll spend the next two nights.

Activities and Experiences South Africa is world-renowned for its wonderful wines, so it’s high time for a proper tasting! In Franschhoek, a unique and active day awaits you.

• Bikes 'n Wine Tour with Marinus: You’ll start the day early today; at 08:00 AM, Marinus will meet you at your accommodation for a special edition of Bikes 'n Wines. You’ll kick off the morning with a mountain bike session on challenging trails at Old Bethlehem! Afterward, you’ll stop at the historic Boschendal Wine Estate for coffee and cake (at your own expense). Then, you’ll head to Leeu Passant to prepare for tasting some exquisite wines. You’ll be back at your accommodation around 3:30 PM.

This activity is fully included in the price.

Day notes

Day 23 & 24: Via Route 62 to Paradise in Wilderness

Today, you’ll drive from Franschhoek to Wilderness, where you will spend the next two nights at The Ocean View Guest House. I recommend departing immediately after breakfast, as there is so much to explore along the way!

The Route via Route 62 Get ready for a wonderful road trip across the iconic Route 62. You’ll encounter several famous landmarks during your journey:

• Diesel and Crème (Barrydale): Barrydale sits between the fertile Tradouw Valley and the arid Little Karoo. Here, you'll find Diesel & Crème, a vintage American-style diner. They are famous for their massive gourmet milkshakes – a must-visit lunch stop!

• Ronnies Sex Shop: Don't be alarmed; it's not actually a sex shop! It started as a regular farm stall until Ronnie's friends painted "SEX" on the wall as a prank. It became an instant hit and remains one of the most famous "Padstals" in South Africa. Stop by for a cold drink and a quick bite.

• Oudtshoorn: This town is world-famous for its ostrich industry and the fascinating Cango Caves. It's a unique place where history meets nature, whether you're touring an ostrich farm or exploring underground stalactites.

Wilderness Wilderness is a true sanctuary for nature lovers, featuring stunning beaches, lush forests, and sparkling lakes. At Wilderness National Park, you can enjoy kayaking, hiking, and breathtaking views.

• Dining Tip: Serendipity. An award-winning fine dining restaurant that offers exceptional value. Reservations are essential.

• Coffee Tip: Green Shed Coffee Roastery. A charming and unique little spot for great coffee and cake. No booking required (open 7 days a week, 06:00 AM – 07:00 PM).

  • Address: 3 Leila's Ln, Wilderness. 

Day notes

Day 25 & 26: A Hidden Gem Along the Garden Route

Did you enjoy your two relaxing days at the beach? It’s time to hop back into the car for a drive to one of my absolute favorite locations along the Garden Route. Your next stay, Emily Moon River Lodge, is a true hidden gem that is sure to enchant you!

Activities and Experiences The next few days offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning nature. The possibilities in this area are truly endless:

• Nature and Hiking: Take a beautiful boat trip or choose one of the impressive hikes in the Robberg Nature Reserve. Also, Tsitsikamma National Park is an absolute must-see; the rugged coastline and lush forests here are breathtakingly beautiful.

• Water Adventures: For those seeking action, Storms River Mouth comes highly recommended. You can join Kayak and Lilo Adventures for an unforgettable trip through the gorge.

• Adrenaline Rush: Want to give your journey an extra adventurous edge? Go bungee jumping off the Bloukrans Bridge! This is one of the highest commercial bungee jumps in the world and an experience you will never forget.

Day notes

Day 27 & 28: The Magic of Wildehondekloof Private Game Reserve

We hope you’ve fully enjoyed the stunning nature in and around Tsitsikamma National Park over the past few days. Now, it’s time to explore the South African interior at a truly unique location: the Wildehondekloof Private Game Reserve. Here, you’ll experience the untouched wilderness in an exclusive setting.

The Route I recommend departing by 10:00 AM today, as a road trip of about 3 hours is on the schedule.

• Tip: While you could take the same way back via the Garden Route, I suggest heading inland and driving via Kareedouw instead for a change of scenery.

Activities and Experiences Learn all about the local flora and fauna during the included excursions. Admire the wildlife in this beautiful reserve and soak in your final safari experiences of the trip.

• Morning Game Drive: Witness the magic of the sunrise while searching for wildlife in an open vehicle. This drive is already included in the price.

• Nature Walk: Experiencing the wild on foot is even more intense. Guided by an expert, you’ll discover the smaller details of the bush. This walk is also included.

Day notes

Day 29: Historic Swellendam and the Savory Flavors of the Cape

It’s one of the last times you’ll be hopping into the car, and this time, the charming town of Swellendam is your next destination. A relaxed 3-hour road trip is on the agenda today, so there’s no need to rush this morning.

The Route Since you’ve already experienced Route 62, I recommend driving via Riversdale to Swellendam. This way, you avoid repeating the same route and get to explore a different part of the region.

• Stopover in Riversdale: A well-known stop on the way to the Garden Route. While it might not be the most picturesque town, it’s the perfect spot for an authentic break. Visit Ou Meul Riversdale to try a tasty South African 'pie'. These savory pastries are a true local staple!

• Address: 5 Van Rensburg St, Riversdale. Open daily from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM.

Activities and Experiences From Swellendam, you have several stunning nature reserves at your doorstep: De Hoop, Bontebok, and Marloth Nature Reserve. Each park is unique and offers a different perspective on South Africa's natural beauty.

• De Hoop Nature Reserve: Interested in a guided activity here, such as an eco-boat cruise or a marine walk along the coast? Check out the options on their website. I would be happy to book this for you!

• Dining Tip: You don't have to worry about dinner; Schoone Oordt Country House features a wonderful restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal in a beautiful setting.

Day notes

Day 30: An Unforgettable Journey Comes to an End

Unfortunately, today marks the very last day of your journey! After a month filled with breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and the unique atmosphere of both South Africa and Namibia, it is time to prepare for your flight home.

I truly hope you enjoyed every single moment and that you return home with countless unforgettable memories and wonderful stories. Whether it was the sunrise over Sossusvlei, the silence of the Kalahari, or the warm hospitality of the Cape: I hope this trip was everything you dreamed of and more.

Please let me know how your trip went! I would love to hear about your personal highlights.