Cape & Dunes Discoverer

This 12-day itinerary laid out by G Adventures covers a variety of southwestern African landscapes and cultural settings. Starting from Cape Town, the route leads into the desert expanses that include some of the world's highest sand dunes and the narrow Sesriem Canyon. Travellers will also visit the Fish River Canyon, a dramatic and vast natural gorge that is lesser-known but striking.

The tour includes several nights of camping in Etosha National Park, where scheduled wildlife drives offer opportunities to see a range of animals in their natural habitat. The coastal town of Swakopmund provides a change of pace, with options for local adventure activities and a touch of German colonial influence. Closer to the end of the trip, a wine tasting in Lambert's Bay gives a flavour of South Africa's winemaking tradition.

The pace balances long drives over roads that can be challenging at times with periods of rest in a mix of accommodation types, including tents and hotels. Group sizes hover around 14-18 travellers, under the care of a Chief Experience Officer and local guides. While clearly adventurous, the holiday allows space to enjoy the distinct environments encountered along the way.