By Alan & Anne Dunn
This trip had been on our Bucket Wheel® for a long time. We first planned a camping tour in 2019, but our enthusiasm was met with concern. Family questioned whether we had the stamina for the dusty roads, desert heat, and physical demands of camping. It gave us pause, but only briefly. After a few months (and many conversations), we decided that no matter what others thought, we were going.
Namibia had captured our imagination – and we weren’t giving up on this dream!
Just as we finalised the itinerary, Covid hit. Tours were cancelled, our chosen operator closed down, and the plan went on hold. In the meantime, we ticked off other adventures: watching whales in Hermanus, walking among elephants in Addo, and completing the Camino in Spain.
By mid-2024, we decided to try again. But with overseas visitors booking up most tours, we began to think it wasn’t meant to be. Then, unexpectedly, a new tour date was added, and we secured two spots! The only catch: it wasn’t designed for over-65s. After back-and-forth emails and a doctor’s note, we were officially confirmed. The planning could begin – properly, this time.
From Cape Town to the Orange River – new landscapes, new friends
Our journey started in Cape Town, winding through the Cederberg and Namaqualand, where the roadsides were blanketed in wildflowers. Crossing into Namibia, we spent our first night on the banks of the Orange River, waking to golden sunrises and riverside breakfasts. We had wisely chosen the “comfort” option – no tents to pitch, just simple chalets.
One of the unexpected highlights was the group itself – 20 travellers from Germany, Denmark, Spain, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Our Zimbabwean driver and guides were exceptional – keeping us well-fed, comfortable, and entertained. Each morning began with coffee, oats, toast, and fruit prepared over a gas stove, eaten in a circle of fold-up chairs. We shared stories, and everyone pitched in to clean up.
Canyons, forests and desert dunes
We explored Fish River Canyon, walked along its breathtaking rim, and stood in awe of its vast silence.
Keetmanshoop became our base for visiting the Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground, Dune 45, Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei, and Sesriem Canyon.
Climbing the dunes was no easy task – legs burning, feet sinking into the sand – but the views from the top made every step worthwhile.
The landscapes were stark and bare yet rich in beauty. Early mornings brought a surprising chill, catching us off guard more than once!
One evening, as the sun set over the dunes, we were treated to stories from a local guide – featuring spiders, snakes, and a few creatures we were glad not to meet in the sand where we sat.
Tropic of Capricorn, Skeleton Coast and Cape Cross
On our way to Swakopmund, we crossed the Tropic of Capricorn – just a simple sign in the middle of the desert. Standing there felt strangely significant, a reminder that we were journeying through places we’d only ever read about in school geography books.
We continued to the Skeleton Coast and Cape Cross, where we saw parts of an old shipwreck and watched a seal colony in action. Another unique and powerful view of this beautiful desert country.
Swakopmund was a highlight. We took a boat cruise in the bay, laughing as seals clambered aboard and pelicans flapped their enormous wings near our heads.
A seafood lunch and warm sherry made it a day to remember, followed by a festive dinner with local food and music.
From there, we travelled through the scenic Brandberg region to Etosha National Park. While animal sightings were few, the experience was unforgettable … especially when our truck broke down on a lion crossing! We were escorted to camp by armed rangers. Dramatic, but definitely a story to bring home.
Our journey ended in Windhoek, where we explored museums and monuments and got a taste of local life.
This trip reminded us that you’re never too old for adventure. Sometimes, the best things just take a little longer. Namibia gave us stories, laughter, and the deep satisfaction of saying: We did it.
