Nothing beats a laid-back road trip, especially one that will take you through pristine, untouched South African West Coast land and into the desert. With just you and your companion, a map (even if it is a Google map), and the open road, this is the sort of once in a lifetime trip that you will never regret taking, provided you do it right and safely.
We are big fans of the self-guided journey.
This particular African holiday offers a seamless transition from the vibrant streets of Cape Town to the heart of Namibia, all while allowing you to set your own pace.
You don’t have to do it alone if you choose to book a planned self-drive holiday, but if you do want to DIY your trip, or if you are just looking for some generally helpful information, we have the essential self-driving tips and the must-visit places to stop at along this picturesque route.
Self-Drive Travel Tips
If this is your first time driving yourself in a strange and unusual place, it can be good to have some tips to keep in mind both before you leave and when you are out there on the road. Here are some of our favourites:
- Yes, Plan Ahead But Please Leave Room For Spontaneity
It goes without saying that you will need to make sure that the car you are taking is in top condition and that you will need to plan your route. But somewhere on your timetable, you need to leave room for those detours and unexpected discoveries.
Cape Town to Namibia road trips are all about embracing the unknown, so don’t over think your stops and make time for spontaneity.
- Fuel Up and Stock Up
Namibia’s vast open and inhabited landscapes often mean you can travel for long stretches between fuel stations and shops. Even if you think you might not need it, you should fill up your tank whenever possible, and also stock up on essentials like water, snacks, and other basic supplies.
This will help you be more prepared for the road ahead, and instead of stressing about not having something essential, you can focus on enjoying the journey.
- Check Local Regulations
Finally, our last big tip is to familiarise yourself with the local driving regulations and road conditions.
In Namibia, you drive on the left side of the road, and quite naturally speed limits can vary, between the open roads, the towns and the cities. When out on the road you need to be cautious of free roaming wildlife, especially during the early mornings and late afternoons. For the most part, Namibia’s roads are well maintained, except for the really remote routes.
A Few Must-Visit Places Along the Route
Driving from Cape Town to Windhoek, or anywhere else in Namibia for that matter, means you will be passing all sorts of interesting places. Here are a few that you need to see.
The Cederberg Mountains
A scenic drive through the Cederberg Mountains is just the perfect way to start your road trip. Here you will be treated to sights of surreal rock formations and the most beautiful wildflowers, which you will see more of if you travel in spring. If you have the time you can hike or have a picnic.
The Fish River Canyon
As you enter Namibia, one of the first stops you can make is in the utterly beautiful Fish River Canyon. This is the second-largest canyon in the world and from above you will be treated to some breathtaking views.
The Sossusvlei
No Namibia safari road trip is complete without a visit to Sossusvlei. With its towering red dunes, this place is worth exploring and while here you must climb Dune 45, especially if you are in the area in the early morning, because that sunrise will linger in your memories forever.
Swakopmund
As you approach the coast, Swakopmund welcomes you with its unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Take a lazy stroll along the promenade, indulge in local cuisine, or try your hand at water sports. It’s the perfect coastal retreat for your self-driven journey.
Etosha National Park
If your road trip takes you away from Windhoek, make sure that you visit the wildlife haven that is Etosha National Park. As you take a drive through the park, you can see all sorts of animals, including elephants, lions, and a myriad of other species. The freedom of a self-drive Namibia safari allows you to savour the wildlife at your leisure.
Are you ready for Lazy Long Sun-Filled Days, Scenic Panoramic Views, and the Dream Adventure of a Lifetime? All you have to do is Book Your Cape Town to Windhoek Drive with African Travel Concept!”
This incredible road trip from Cape Town to Windhoek isn’t just a journey; it’s an odyssey through magnificent landscapes and destinations on the tracks that you want to travel. If this sounds like the holiday of your dreams, you can book a self-drive Namibia safari today!
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