SOUTHERN NAMIBIA
Namib Desert & Fish River Canyon Tour
Embark on an 11-day adventure through Southern Namibia with Untamed Africa Tours, where dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage create an unforgettable journey. From the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei to the rugged beauty of the Fish River Canyon, each day promises awe-inspiring moments.
Explore the historical charm of Lüderitz, uncover the mysteries of Kolmanskop’s ghost town, and ride through the serene expanse of the Orange River. With a mix of thrilling gravel roads, wildlife encounters, and luxurious lodges, this tour blends exhilaration with comfort.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious adventurer, Southern Namibia invites you to experience its untamed beauty and create lifelong memories.
NITTY GRITTY:
TIME: 11 days
EXPERIENCE LEVEL: Intermediate
PRICE: N$ 92,400 (Namibian Dollars)
TOUR DATES: 1 - 11 august 2025
GROUP SIZE : Minimum 6 and maximum 10
*All-inclusive pricing: the only thing unexpected will be the breathtaking views.
Check terms and conditions
INCLUDED:
Your ride: Yamaha Ténéré 700
Accommodations
Meals (except first and last tour dinners)
Experienced guide
All fuel during the tour
Support truck 24/7
Transfer from/to Walvis Bay Int. Airport
Permits
Kolmanskop entrance fee
Soft drinks and water on support vehicle
Dead vlei 4x4 excursion
NOT INCLUDED:
Insurance
Flights
Riding gear
Drinks outside the meal options
itinerary
The Walvis Bay Salt Works, located on the central coast of Namibia, stands as one of the largest producers of solar evaporated sea salt in Africa. Covering about 3500 hectares of salt pans, the fields can yield up to 700,000 tons of high-quality salt per year, contributing significantly to the region’s economy. These pans use natural solar and wind energy for the crystallization process. The visually striking feature of the salt fields produces a brilliant white landscape often contrasted with the vivid hues of rich algal blooms.
WALVIS BAY
The Tropic of Capricorn, one of the five major circles of latitude marked on maps of Earth, passes through Namibia, creating a significant geographical landmark. This line marks the southernmost point where the sun is directly overhead at noon, which occurs during the December solstice. A sign at Solitaire on the C14 road indicates the crossing point of this latitude. This invisible line greatly influences the country’s climate and the adaptations of its flora and fauna.
tropic of capricorn
An eclectic and quirky lodge that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of adventurous road-tripping. Its décor pays homage to vintage automobiles, creating a unique and fun atmosphere. Many old cars and auto parts have been creatively repurposed to provide a retro-feel to its interiors.
CANYON ROADHOUSE
The wild desert horses of southern Namibia are a captivating sight and a unique phenomenon. Predominantly found in the arid plains around Aus and the barren Namib Desert, these horses have adapted over many decades to the harsh desert conditions in which water and shade are scarcely available. It’s believed that these horses descended from escapees of military or work stock during World War I. Over time, they’ve developed exceptional survival skills to endure the extreme climate. Today, they are one of the very few wild horse populations in the world. Observing these horses in their natural surroundings adds a sense of enchantment to the rugged beauty of the Namibian landscape, making them a popular tourist attraction.
wild desert horses
Diaz Point is a notable historical landmark located along the rugged coastline just south of Luderitz, Namibia. Named after the Portuguese explorer, Bartholomeu Diaz, who erected a padrao (stone cross) here in 1488, marking it as one of the earliest known European exploratory landmarks in southern Africa. Today, a replica of the padrao commemorates Diaz’s exploratory journey. The point itself is characterized by its wild beauty, where the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean crash against the desolate, wind-swept cliffs. There is a lighthouse, known as Diaz Lighthouse, and a quaint cafe nearby offering spectacular ocean views. The journey to Diaz Point, a blend of historical intrigue and captivating scenery, provides a rewarding excursion for visitors to Luderitz.
diaz point
The park is one of the largest nature conservation areas in the world and the largest game park in Africa. It contains a vast and diverse landscape that encompasses parts of the Namib Desert, considered the oldest desert in the world, and the Naukluft mountain range.
namib-naukluft park
The Spreetshoogte Mountain Pass is an awe-inspiring geological feature that offers some of the country’s most stunning panoramic views. It is the steepest pass in Namibia, carved into the Great Escarpment between the Namib Desert to the west and the central plateau to the east. The pass was originally built by a farmer using a donkey cart to facilitate easier transportation between the two areas. Although the road is challenging and steep, with sections featuring gravel switchback roads, reaching the top is rewarded by breathtaking vistas of the vast, undulating desert landscape below. It’s a must-visit location for adventurers looking to witness the stark, dramatic beauty of Namibia’s landscapes.
spreetshoogte mountain pass
The Orange River, known locally as the Gariep River, is the longest river in South Africa, and it also forms a significant portion of the southern border of Namibia. It originates in the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho and flows westward into the Atlantic Ocean on Namibia’s border. The Orange River provides a verdant oasis in an otherwise arid landscape, creating opportunities for lush vineyards in a desert environment.
ORANGE RIVER
Luderitz is a fascinating coastal town, nestled between the arid Namib Desert and the icy Atlantic Ocean. Famed for its unique German colonial architecture and vibrant art nouveau buildings, the town feels remarkably like a slice of old Europe under the African sun. It was founded in the late 19th century during the diamond rush and still retains much of its historic character and charm. The town’s unique blend of African and European influences makes it a standout destination in Namibia.
luderitz
Sossusvlei, located in the heart of the Namib Desert in southern Namibia, is a remarkable salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red sand dunes that are among the most iconic and photographed landscapes in Africa. The striking contrast between the deep red dunes, the white pans, and the strikingly blue sky creates an unusual and captivating tableau. Some of the dunes in Sossusvlei are among the highest in the world, reaching almost 400 meters. Despite the arid conditions, Sossusvlei supports a variety of plant and animal life and is a focal point of Namibia’s Namib-Naukluft National Park, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
sossusvlei
After a day of thrilling rides through Namibia’s rugged terrains, unwind in the comfort of carefully selected luxury lodges. Nestled in breathtaking landscapes, these accommodations offer a perfect blend of indulgence and authenticity. Relax in stylish rooms, savor gourmet cuisine, and enjoy serene views that complement the wild beauty of your adventure. Each lodge provides a peaceful retreat, ensuring you’re recharged and ready for the next day’s exploration.
LUXURY ACCOMODATION
The Kuiseb Canyon is a dramatic geological feature of the Namib Desert. The canyon has been formed over millions of years by the erosive action of the Kuiseb River, which flows episodically and provides a vital source of water to the local Topnaar community. The canyon’s contrasting landscape, with towering sand dunes on one side and jagged, rocky terrain on the other, offers a stunning array of beautiful vistas. The deep gorges and craggy cliffs of the canyon are home to a surprising variety of wildlife and plant species that have adapted to the harsh desert conditions.
kuiseb canyon
The Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world and arguably Africa’s greatest geological wonder. With a length of over 160 kilometres, a width up to 27 kilometres, and a depth reaching 550 meters, the canyon offers breathtaking views and a powerful testament to the forces of erosion. The canyon is part of the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, home to diverse wildlife and plant species. The seasonal Fish River at its base is a crucial water source in this arid environment. Among its prominent features is the popular Fish River hiking trail, a challenging multi-day hike that draws adventure enthusiasts from across the globe. The sheer scale, rugged beauty, and isolation of the Fish River Canyon make it an outstanding destination.
fish river canyon
The Aussenkehr Reed Villages, situated near the banks of the Orange River, offer a unique glimpse into the local way of life. The villages are predominantly inhabited by workers from the neighbouring grape farms. What makes these villages unique is the construction of the homes, which are primarily made from reeds. Despite the harsh desert climate, these reed houses provide an inexpensive and surprisingly effective shelter from the elements, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of the local inhabitants. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness of the local people, providing an interesting perspective on survival and life in one of the most arid regions of the world. However, the living condition in these villages also portrays the socio-economic challenges faced by the inhabitants.
AUSSENKEHR REED VILLAGES
Kolmanskop is a compelling ghost town located in the barren landscapes of southern Namibia. In the early 20th century, it was a bustling diamond mining town, built with a grandeur that mirrored the wealth derived from the riches of the land. It boasted grand mansions, a hospital, a power station, a school, a theatre and the first x-ray station in the southern hemisphere. The depletion of diamond deposits after World War I led to its abandonment by the mid-1950s. Today, the once luxurious buildings are being swallowed by the encroaching desert sands, creating a surreal and hauntingly beautiful landscape. A visit to Kolmanskop offers a glimpse into a bygone era and the transient nature of wealth, making it a popular tourist attraction and an iconic destination for photographers.
kolmanskop
Deadvlei is located within the larger Sossusvlei area in the Namib Desert. Its name means “dead marsh” in English. This hauntingly beautiful place is marked by dark, dead camel thorn trees that are believed to be about 600-700 years old. Although scorched black by the intense sun, these trees have not decomposed due to the dry climate. The surreal contrast between the pitch-black trees, white clay floor, red dunes, and deep blue sky makes Deadvlei a photographer’s dream and one of the most visually stunning places in the world.