Day 1 

Embark on an unforgettable 12 Day adventure and experience four unique ecosystems in the Northern Cape namely the Kalahari Namaqualand, Richtersveld and the West Coast. Our itinerary is designed to showcase the Namaqualand's seasonal floral display in August/September, promising this to be a scenic and adventure-filled tour. Our journey begins in Upington at 8 am, where we meet and greet before departing in our self-drive 4x4 vehicles. A rendezvous point will be shared closer to the departure date. We head southwest towards Keimoes and Kakamas before reaching Riemvasmaak hot springs, where we quickly explore the area, driving through rocky terrain in 4x4 mode. After leaving Riemvasmaak, we descend the rocky slopes to witness the majestic Augrabies Waterfall at Augrabies National Park. Our journey will continue as we make our way to the Namaqua 4x4 trail from Pella, passing through Vioolsdrif to reach the Richtersveld. We will then follow the West Coast all the way down south to Vanrhynsdorp, experiencing the diverse ecosystems along the way. At the end of each day, we check into our accommodations, starting with the Kameeldoring Lodge in Augrabies.

Day 2

After enjoying our breakfast, we set off on our journey westward along a dusty track towards Onseepkans. This small settlement, situated on the banks of the Orange River in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa, serves as a border post between Pofadder in South Africa and Keetmanshoop in Namibia. On our way to Onseepkans, we make a stop at the famous Quiver Tree Forest for a picturesque lunch break. Here, we indulge in a traditional meal prepared and provided by the local Nama Khoi people and served in a charming makeshift camp. The locals treat us to mouth-watering “Rooster Koek”, a homemade bread cooked over hot coals and filled with the specialty of the day and delicious camp coffee.

After satisfying our appetites, we continue our journey towards the Red Rock River Camp, located right on the banks of the Orange River. Our hospitable hosts welcome us with canapés and snacks on their stunning deck overlooking the mighty Orange River. As night falls, we retire to our individual camping spots nestled among lush green lawns, complete with hot showers and flushing toilets for our convenience. It's the perfect end to a day filled with adventure and exploration.

Note: Honesty Bar Available.

Day 3 

After savoring our breakfast, we embark on a leisurely guided journey down the river in two-man river rafts, taking in the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains and local birds & wildlife. 

Along the way, we make a pit stop on an island where our guides will treat us to a lunch of “Braai Wors Rolletjies” (BBQ Hot Dogs) on the banks of the Orange river. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of scenic walks available, offering ample photo opportunities of the breathtaking mountain and river scenery. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at fly fishing, with gear available to rent from our camp hosts. 

After a day of adventure on the river, we gather for a communal dinner Braai (BBQ) in our camp and retire to our individual camping tents. Our thoughtful hosts can even arrange Braai Packs and ice for your convenience. Don't miss out on this unforgettable opportunity to experience the beauty and excitement of the Orange River!

Day 4 

After an early breakfast, we head south towards Pofadder where we fill up the vehicles to the brim with fuel as this will be the last fuel stop until we reach Steinkopf on the N7. 

Note: For the following Three nights we will be camping wild with no hot water showers or flushing toilets. We follow the Orange River though, so those who need to rinse off the dust can take a dip in the river. Nothing beats a river wash anyways.

After Pofadder, we head north to the small settlement town of Pella for a quick cultural visit and then head west again where we officially begin our Namaqua 4x4 Eco Trail following the road towards Witbank. Covering a distance of approximately 300kms, the trail takes us three days. 

Throughout the trail, participants will have the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region, including the Namaqua National Park's impressive wildflower displays during the spring months. We set up camp at Hartbeesmond, situated right on the banks of the Orange river. As the night draws to a close, we retire to our individual tents for a well-deserved rest, ready to rise early for another exciting day ahead.

Day 5

The distances traveled between camps are not great but because of the difficulty of the terrain we move slowly, mostly in second gear and give you the opportunity to stop and take as many pictures as you need. This tour is not a race to get to the next sleepover point, take your time, enjoy the scenery and take in as much as you can.

After breakfast we head further west along the rivers edge and call in at Witbank. Note, there is a small convenience store available in Witbank for those who have forgotten to purchase their items in Pofadder.

We camp at Die Groot Melkboom and enjoy camping under the stars with a blazing fire to keep us company.

Day 6

After breakfast we continue our journey along the trail, still following the mighty Orange river, enjoying endless scenery and the astounding echo system of the Namaqua countryside towards our next stopover for the night at Kamgab Wild Camp, still nestled on the Orange River. Heading west we drive through the little settlement of Goodhouse where we stop for a refreshing cold drink from their convenience store before continuing along the rivers edge. Getting to Kamgab is a bit tricky with some rock climbing involved. Camping trailers are welcome on this tour but be aware that you will encounter obstacles. Your guide however is well qualified, and it’s advised to follow his leadership. With the exception of the section called “Die Hell” the terrain we cover is medium in difficulty and suitable for all 4x4 enthusiast. 

Day 7

After breakfast, we continue in a westerly direction, briefly leaving the Orange River behind as we make our way down to the N7 highway, which lead us to Vioolsdrif. We bid farewell to the Namaqua section of the 4x4 echo trail and arrive at the Oewerbos River Camp in the afternoon, where our friendly hosts welcome us to the bar area, which boasts a breathtaking view of the Orange River. Later in the afternoon, we embarked on a river cruise aboard their custom made River Pontoon, enjoying sundowners and a delicious BBQ as we gently cruise along with the flow of the river. After a day filled with adventure and relaxation, we retire to our comfortable camping or lodge accommodations for a well-deserved rest before setting off towards our next destination, the Nigramoep Slow Living Guest Farm, in the morning.

Day 8

After a delicious breakfast, we set out on an exciting, slow driving adventure towards the Nigramoep Slow Living Guest Farm, nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Namaqualand Ranges. With a bit of luck, the rugged terrain along this stunning route will be adorned with a vibrant display of September wildflowers, creating a truly picturesque setting. Our journey to Nigramoep takes us off the beaten path, winding through the Nababiep National Park in the Richtersveld, where we are treated to breathtaking views of the harsh, dry climate and stunning rock formations. We drive through the small town of Steinkopf and take a minute to re fuel and stock up on supplies from the small convenience store available. Upon arriving at Nigramoep, we are greeted with cold beers at the Honesty bar, and our gracious hosts, Marius and Johanna, pull out all the stops to ensure our two-night stay is an unforgettable one.

Day 9

The next day, we wake up to the sound of birds chirping and the fresh scent of nature. After breakfast, we embark on a guided 4x4 tour in their purpose built “Pipe cars” on the farm, where we learn about the history and culture of the area. We also have the opportunity to explore the surrounding hills and valleys, taking in stunning views and immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the floral region. Our host, Marius, possesses a wealth of knowledge regarding the now-defunct copper mine located on the farm and is more than happy to share the fascinating history of this once-thriving mine with our guests. Marius's expertise on the subject is sure to captivate and enlighten all who listen, and his knowledge of the wildflowers located on his farm he too shares eagerly with all. "We are treated to a delectable lunch, catered and served by our lovely hosts in the heart of Namaqualand.  In the evening, we gather around the fire pit for a traditional South African braai, enjoying the company of our fellow travelers and the warm hospitality of our hosts. 

Day 10 

After a light breakfast, we set off towards our lunch destination at Houthoop, located southwest of Nigramoep. At Houthoop, we indulge in a delectable seafood lunch that perfectly complements our setting on the stunning west coast. Following our satisfying lunch, we continue our journey along the dirt tracks, hugging the coast south towards Hondeklip Baai. Here, we settle in for the night, camping or lodging and enjoying the top-notch facilities at the familiar "Honne-Pondokkies." Driving along the picturesque west coast on sandy tracks to Hondeklip Baai is an unparalleled adventure that offers breathtaking natural scenery. The route takes you over sandy dunes with amazing landscapes, rugged coastlines, and long, unblemished beaches and as we will be traveling in September, the hills will be clad with the seasonal vygies and daisies and gousblomme to mention a few. Be prepared to tackle some challenging terrain, such as steep hills and thick sandy tracks.

Day 11

After breakfast, our journey along the picturesque west coast continues towards the Waterfal farm, our final destination driving through part of the Namaqua National Park. This location is a true gem, as the owner has thoughtfully provided campsites right on the edge of the ocean, allowing you to unwind and soak in the breathtaking views. As you make your way through the Namaqua National Park, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as antelope and deer. The park is home to a variety of animals, so you may even spot baboons, ostriches, and wildcats. The natural beauty of the area is truly awe-inspiring, and you'll have ample opportunities to stop and take it all in.

Overall, the journey from Hondeklip Bay to Waterfal farm offers a unique and unforgettable experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. It's  he perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to create lasting memories.

Day 12 

On the final day of our tour, we continue on a journey south towards Vanrhynsdorp. This leg of the trip will take you through some of the most picturesque areas in South Africa, offering breathtaking views of the countryside on your left and the stunning Westcoast to your right  as you wind your way towards Vanrhynsdorp.

As we make our way towards Vanrhynsdorp, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we have just completed. Starting from Upington, we traveled through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Kalahari, including the Namaqua 4x4 echo trail and the Richtersveld. Along the way, we encountered a variety of wildlife and experienced some of the most awe-inspiring scenery that South Africa has to offer. 

Our tour concludes at the renowned Letsatsi Lodge in Vanrhynsdorp. The Letsatsi Lodge offers top-rated accommodation and its renowned Red Ox Steakhouse is where we will enjoy our last lunch together before heading in our separate directions until we meet again next time.