Finding Silence and Solitude in South Africa and Namibia
- Duration
- 10 days
- Price guide
- From $13,257 per person
Trip highlights
- Spot southern right whales from the coast at De Kelders
- Connect with the semi-nomadic Himba community
- Gaze into star strewn skies and take time to reflect
- Go birdwatching in the forests around Grootbos
- Admire the isolation and surreal landscapes around the Kunene River
- Explore the dunes around Wolwedans on horseback
Marvel at gigantic whales off the coast 
Feel welcomed by the Himba community 
Be transfixed by Namibia's night skies 
Look out for spotted dikkop and other birds 
Stop to admire the scenery around the Kunene River 
Explore the countryside on horseback
Restorative journeys
Travel can be restorative in many different ways. Take a route where you’ll find a deeper connection to the places you visit. The greatest luxury is the rare and beautiful feeling of being fully, unapologetically, there.
- Take time to pause and reset
- Seek meaningful connection
- Gain a deep understanding of your environment
- Learn about traditions and culture
Itinerary in detail
Every trip is shaped around you. Below is a sample route to start from; we change any part of it to suit you.
Days 1-4
Unwind on the Whale Coast
Your restorative journey will begin as you travel to Grootbos and sink into an afternoon dedicated entirely to relaxation. Take a peaceful walk down to the beach, relax in your suite while listening to the surrounding bird life, or perhaps indulge in a treatment at the spa. This time is yours to recharge. The Whale Coast is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring a protected collection of bays, white crescent beaches, and mountains dramatically meeting the Atlantic.
Where you could stay
Grootbos Forest Lodge
Forest Lodge is a lodge in Whale Coast, South Africa.
Grootbos Garden Lodge
Grootbos Private Reserve’s Garden eco-lodge, appropriately named, is enclosed by some beautifully designed and well-kept gardens all under a canopy of rare fyn…
Go birdwatching
You can tell by the chorus of birdsong that greets you at Grootbos, that bird watching here will be extraordinary. With 26 species endemic to the region, you’re bound to record more than a few rare sightings. Glimpse the vivid orange of a sunbird’s breast, see a Cape sugarbird sipping on nectar or spot a rare black harrier. Cool Afromontane forests, the rocky coastline and serene estuaries provide a magnificent backdrop.
Bathe in the ancient forest
Embark on a serene, mindful journey into nature. Led by skilled guides, this experience provides a safe and supportive space for you to reconnect with both nature and yourself. Spend time bathing in the healing properties of these ancient forests.
Days 5-7
Desert solitude in the NamibRand Reserve
After a day of travel from Cape Town, unwind beside the pool or on top of a sand dune, drinking in the silence. The beauty of the desert is mesmerising. The unending views here are at their most spectacular at sunset, and even beyond. Declared Africa’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, NamibRand star gazing is some of the best in the world.
Where you could stay
Boulders Camp
Boulders Camp is a camp in NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia.
Explore the dunes on horseback
Take a guided journey through the dunes and across expansive plains on horseback. Depending on your comfort and ability, the pace will be tailored to include walking, trotting or galloping. Experience the beautiful terrain from a unique perspective on this unforgettable activity.
Walking with the San
Join a San guide for a compelling journey into the ancient traditions of the San people. As you walk through the desert, you will learn about their heritage, survival techniques, and deep spiritual connection to the land. This experience offers you profound insight into Namibia’s cultural and natural history, and allows you to connect with your surroundings.
Sunsets and sleep outs
Marvel at the breathtaking sunsets and gaze deep into skies brimming with stars. Then drift off to sleep beneath one of the world’s clearest night skies on a private deck. Wolwedans is recognised by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), and you’ll be treated to an unrivaled stargazing experience free from light pollution.
Days 8-10
Culture and connection in Kunene River
As you arrive at Serra Cafema you’ll have space to marvel at this truly remote corner of Africa – no one else around for hundreds of miles. As the sun sets, dine under the stars and listen to the rapids of the Kunene River below. The real draw of this region is the sheer isolation and surreal desert landscapes. And when it comes to wildlife, the river setting makes for excellent viewing opportunities. Head out on Kunene River safaris, scanning the waters and banks for wildlife like crocodiles, oryx and Hartmann’s zebras as well as other reptiles and birdlife.
Where you could stay
Wilderness Serra Cafema
Luxury desert lodge, paying homage to Himba culture
Meet with the Himba people
Take some time to connect with one of Africa’s last semi-nomadic communities, the Himba people. Together with your local guide, you will get a glimpse of their way of life which is deeply intertwined with the land and removed from modern comforts. Through this, you’re gifted the opportunity to reflect on your own values and gain a deeper insight into an enduring heritage.
Fireside stargazing and stories
Fill the night here with incredible stargazing and sharing stories around the camp fire. The fire pit at Wilderness Serra Cafema is the social heart of the camp. Situated in a lower-level, oval seating area, this space overlooks the river and is perfectly positioned for taking in the vast night skies. Reflect on the day’s experiences and perhaps start dreaming of your next adventure.
★★★★★
“A Legendary African Journey”
A spectacular trip to Botswana, Namibia and South Africa arranged by Jacada and Emily Wallington. We spent 8 nights in Botswana, 7 in Namibia before capping it off with three nights in Capetown. Each stop was filled with adventure, great food and unforgettable experiences. Emily listened to what we wanted and put it together. For high-end travel, Jacada is simply…
Jonathan Singer · Trustpilot
Why book with Jacada
-
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
-
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
-
Positive impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
Start planning your trip
Please enable JavaScript to use the enquiry form, or contact us by phone or email.
Need more inspiration?
Epic Landscapes and Wildlife Experiences of South Africa
Year after year, South Africa continues to capture our imaginations; its much loved landscapes offer no shortage of wonders. Providing a different perspective…
Explore trip
South Africa Family Safari Explorer
Embark on a wonderful wildlife adventure across South Africa, designed to captivate both big and small. Your journey together begins in the malaria-free, Kwand…
Explore trip
The Magnificent Seven Safari
This is the ultimate wildlife adventure in South Africa. There are only a few months of the year (July to October) during which you can see the ‘Big Seven’, co…
Explore trip
A Luxury Grand Tour of Namibia
A remarkable Namibian grand tour that takes you on a luxury safari through surreal desert landscapes to find wildlife and quirky towns. From its capital, Windh…
Explore trip
A Luxury Rail Journey Through Africa
From exciting Cape Town to an incredible Sabi Sands safari to wine tasting in the Winelands, this thorough and exclusive trip takes in the amazing highlights o…
Explore trip
An African Wildlife Odyssey
This epic tour spans the length and breadth of Africa, taking you to some of its best locations for some of its most awesome wildlife and physical experiences.…
Explore trip