Namibia is a top regional holiday destination for South Africans, with multiple daily non-stop flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg.
However, you can also enjoy the journey by road. This land of contrasts is a top pick for a cost- effective intra-African getaway.
According to Antoinette Turner, general manager of Flight Centre South Africa, exploring this remarkable country has become easier than ever.
“This is due to the rising competitiveness of regional airlines, the inclusion of budget-friendly camp sites, all-inclusive and self-catering accommodation in Namibia’s nature reserves, and the growing popularity of self-drive adventures,” she said.
Turner said although it was more convenient and often more affordable to fly to Namibia, South Africans could also choose a road trip.
“There are three main routes to choose from, each with their pros and cons,” she said.
Here are the three routes available to you if you’re thinking of embarking on an epic road trip.
The direct route (N1 highway through Botswana)
According to Turner, this route is the most practical if your priority is reaching Namibia quickly.
You can expect to travel a approximately 1 500 km for 16 to 18 hours. She noted that the N1 highway is in good condition, making for a smooth drive, it and crosses Botswana.
“Be aware of border-crossing procedures and potential delays at both the South Africa-Botswana and Botswana-Namibia borders,” said Turner.
She also recommended breaking the journey into at least two days, with an overnight stay in Gaborone or Kang.
The Kalahari route
Although gravel roads and the remoteness of the area may make this route challenging – and you need a 4x4 – the Kalahari Desert offers spectacular views.
Turner said you could expect to travel almost 1 800km in 20 to 22 hours. This route also gives you the opportunity to visit the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
“There are various stops to consider to break up the journey when driving the Kalahari Route.
“For example, a stop in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, known for its excellent rest camps and desert-adapted wildlife. Keetmanshoop, a small Namibian town, is another guaranteed highlight, with its quiver tree forest and nearby Giant’s Playground, a collection of massive dolerite formations.
“And the trip wouldn’t be complete without exploring the ghost town of Kolmanskop,” said Turner.
The scenic route (via Kimberley and Upington)
If you believe the adage that the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination, then this is the route for you.
Though you will cover approximately 2 000km in 22 to 24 hours, there is beautiful scenery including including mountains, deserts, and rivers, and an opportunity to visit Kimberley’s Big Hole and Augrabies Falls National Park.
Most of the roads are paved, allowing for a comfortable, more predictable drive.
“I’d recommend spending at least one night in Kakamas, a small town on the banks of the Orange River in the Northern Cape. It’s a little treasure off the beaten path and known for its vineyards and orchards.
“Vioolsdrif is another option, close to the Namibian border and part of the Namaqualand region. You may even see the town’s legendary wildflowers if travelling in August and September,” said Turner.
Road tripping to Namibia demands a lot more planning and energy than hopping aboard a plane but it’s an experience every South African traveller should have at least once.
“It’s wonderful for a broader, multi-faceted view of this small, yet diverse portion of our continent,” said Turner.