South Extension
5 day Extension to your Namibia Self-drive Tour
Ideal for travellers interested in Namibia’s desert landscapes and historical sites. A great option for those seeking to experience the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of southern Namibia before continuing to Sesriem and beyond.
Self-Drive Extension
5 Days
Let this South extension enchant you with the beauty of ‘nothingness’. The South of the country contributes largely to the reason why Namibia is known for the country of wide open spaces and beautiful contrasts. Test how far your eyes can see, and how many kilometers you can drive without meeting a single soul or seeing a man-made structure. But look carefully, what first might seem to be just empty space, is full of life. Only the most resilient of plants and animals adapt to these beautiful yet harsh conditions.
After the days of desolation, catch a fresh breeze at the coastal town of Lüderitz, and explore this area, with its unique geological features and rich history.
Brief Itinerary
- Day 1: Kalahari
- Day 2-3: Fish River Canyon
- Day 4-5: Lüderitz – Aus
- Day 6: Resume original itinerary at Sesriem
Highlights
- Encounter an amazing natural phenomenon: the Fish River Canyon
- A visit to the ‘ghost town’ of Kolmaskop
- Experience Namibia’s diversity in landscapes and cultures
- Explore the Kalahari, home to the San-people
Itinerary
South Addition
Day 1
Kalahari
Follow the lions through the red sand dunes of the Kalahari.
You explore a bit more of the Kalahari, home to the San-people. Despite its name, meaning “great thirst”, the region does attract wildlife. Keep your eyes open for springbok, zebra and wildebeest during a sunset safari, and even giraffe and lions have their home here.
Enjoy some walks, with bare feet in the soft sand… and relax on top of a dune with a cool drink in your hand, while this semi-desert reveals its most beautiful colors. End the day while gazing upon the starry sky.
Day 2-3
Fish River Canyon
The second largest canyons in the world, Fish River Canyon offers dramatic views and hiking opportunities along its rim.
Around 650 million years ago, tectonic shifts created a vast lowland where the ancient Fish River slowly carved out today’s Fish River Canyon. Starting with a dramatic 500-meter drop, this canyon is now one of Namibia’s most striking landscapes.
The Fish River winds through high rocky walls for 650 kilometers on its way to the Orange River, which forms the natural border with South Africa. You can enjoy stunning views from several lookout points. And if you’re up for a bit of adventure, we can arrange a stay in a lodge with guided hikes to explore the area’s rugged beauty.
Day 4-5
Lüderitz – Aus
Visit the ghost town of Kolmanskop, and witness the wild horses of the Namib in their natural habitat.
Nestled in the Aus Mountains, the small town of Aus serves as a gateway to the Namib Desert. The area around Aus is home to the wild horses of the Namib, offering a chance to witness these animals in their natural habitat.
Also take a stroll through Lüderitz, the quiet harbor town, featuring some old German architecture, dating from 1900. This town was once the most wealthy town in Namibia, during the diamond-rush between the world wars. What used to be this wealthy mine worker village with the fist cinema in Namibia, a casino, theatre and shops, was abandoned over night and quickly taken over and ‘swallowed’ by the desert sands. A visit to this desolated “ghost town“ Kolmanskop will certainly leave an impression: What is left is a bizarre sight, and a heaven for photographers
Day 6
Resume original itinerary at Sesriem
Personalized Namibia Travel Planning
Every adventurer has their own vision. Looking for support to design your self-drive journey through Namibia? Our expert tour consultants are eager to help! We’ll collaborate to create a fully customized itinerary that matches your unique preferences, dreams, and budget. Our friendly, dedicated team, is on hand to craft a bespoke travel proposal for your Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana adventure and address all your questions with care.
Included Self-Drive Trip:
- Car rental
- Accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, lodges or campsites)
- Unlimited kilometres
- Complete camping equipment (camping trip)
- Car insurance with standard excess
- Third party insurance
- Most accommodations are booked with breakfast and camping is self-catering
- Personal travel App for cell phone
- 24-hours emergency service
- Tips and route information
- Airport/hotel transfers
Accommodation:
- Standard accommodation tours include all rooms at middle-class hotels, guesthouses or lodges (mostly B&B), unless otherwise requested.
- Standard camping tours include most nights at campsites, combined with several nights at middle-class hotels, guesthouse or lodges (mostly B&B).
- Almost all campsites and accommodations have a restaurant and offer facilities like a pool, bar, info desk, etc.
- If the trips includes visits to National Parks, then the nights will be spent inside the parks as much as possible.
Meals & Drinks:
- Most accommodations are booked with breakfast and camping is self-catering. It will be clearly indicated what meals are included in your tour proposal.
- With most accommodations it is also possible to book dinner in advance. If you would like to include this in your proposal, please let us know.
Not included Self-Drive Trip:
- International Flights
- Fuel
- Park fees, entrance fees to museums
- Personal expenses
- Additional activities and excursions, e.g. game drives, boat trips, etc.
- Meals (unless indicated as included)
- Travel and cancellation insurance