Auob Panoramic Route

Explore the stunning Namibian landscape with the Auob Panoramic Route. Starting in the small town of Stampriet and ending in the town of Keetmanshoop, the 356 km route takes you through the towns of Gochas and Koes. Along the way, you will find a variety of attractions such as the stunning Fish River Canyon and the Quiver Tree Forest. The best time of year to drive this route is during the dry season (April to October). While the overall road conditions are poor, the experience and memories you will make along the way make it all worth it. This road trip is suitable for every driver, and can be managed with a fair budget. So come and explore the Namibian landscape with the Auob Panoramic Route.

Stampriet is a small town in Namibia and the starting point of the Auob Panoramic Route. It's a great place to rent a car, explore the nearby local attractions, and get a taste of Namibia's history and culture. There are many interesting sights in and around Stampriet, including historical sites, wildlife reserves, and national parks. Visitors to Stampriet can visit the Tsumkwe Bushmen Museum, which offers an insight into the lives of the San Bushmen people, or the Namib Naukluft Park, with its spectacular desert scenery and varied wildlife. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there's the nearby NamibRand Nature Reserve, with its vast open plains and impressive array of birds and animals. The closest international airport to Stampriet is Hosea Kutako International Airport (IATA code: WDH). It is possible to rent a car at the airport, making it easy to start the Auob Panoramic Route and explore the sights of Stampriet and the surrounding area. Stampriet is a great starting point for any road trip in Namibia, and the Auob Panoramic Route offers a wealth of interesting sights and experiences. Whether you choose to explore the local attractions, visit the wildlife reserves, or take in the stunning desert scenery, Stampriet is the perfect place to begin your Namibian adventure.

Embark on an exciting road trip from Stampriet to Gochas! This 73 km journey will take you less than two hours, and you will be surrounded by stunning natural beauty. As you travel, make sure to take in the scenic road and the unique landscape. You will pass through the town of Buitepos, which is home to the famous Buitepos Rock Engravings. These ancient engravings are believed to be more than 2,500 years old and offer a fascinating insight into the culture of the area. Further along the route, you will find the small town of Gochas. This is the perfect place to explore the traditional Himba culture and to get a glimpse of the traditional way of life. There is also a great selection of wildlife in the area, including the famous desert-adapted elephants. It's a great opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. So, get ready for an unforgettable journey and don't forget to take advantage of all the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites available along the route. More information can be found in the Itinerary of this stage.

Embark on an exciting road trip from Gochas to Koes! This 159km journey will take you less than 5 hours to complete, so you can make the most of your time in the stunning landscapes of Namibia. As you drive, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the desert and the mountains. Look out for the occasional gas station, as there may be a lack of them along the way. Once you reach Koes, you will be rewarded with a plethora of attractions and activities to enjoy. Take a tour of the ancient ruins of the Koes Museum, or explore the nearby nature reserve for a glimpse of the local wildlife. If you're looking for a place to stay, there are plenty of accommodation options in the area. Why not treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in town? This is just one of the many stages of your Namibian road trip, so make sure to consult your itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the way. Enjoy the journey!

Embark on an incredible road trip from Koes to Keetmanshoop! This 125 km journey will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Namibia, and you can complete it in under 4 hours. As you drive along, be sure to take in the incredible views of the landscape and keep an eye out for any wildlife that may be in the area. You may also want to keep in mind that there may be limited gas stations along the way, so it's best to plan ahead. Your first stop should be the Koes Quiver Tree Forest, where you can marvel at the unique plants and the breathtaking backdrop of the Namib Desert. Not far away is the Giant's Playground, an area of massive sandstone formations with some of the most beautiful views in Namibia. Once you arrive in Keetmanshoop, you can visit the Quiver Tree Forest where you can find some of the oldest quiver trees in the country. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the itinerary of this stage. So, get ready to hit the road and enjoy the stunning views Namibia has to offer!

Keetmanshoop is a town located in the ǁKaras Region of Namibia and is the final stop of the Auob Panoramic Route. This beautiful route takes travelers through the Namib Desert, providing stunning views of the red sand dunes, white salt pans and the Orange River. Once you reach Keetmanshoop, there are plenty of places to visit, such as the Quiver Tree Forest, a unique forest of quiver trees that are only found in Namibia and South Africa. You can also visit the Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world, with stunning views of the desert, or take a short drive to the nearby town of Aus, where you can explore the Aus Mountains. If you're looking for culture, visit the Kokerboom Museum, which houses various artifacts and provides a glimpse into the history of the region. The museum also has a botanical garden, where you can see various plants native to the area. The closest international airport to Keetmanshoop is the Hosea Kutako International Airport (IATA: WDH) in Windhoek, located about 300 km from the town. Keetmanshoop is the perfect place to end your journey along the Auob Panoramic Route. With its stunning views, cultural attractions, and plethora of activities, Keetmanshoop is a must-see for any traveler looking to explore the beauty of Namibia.

Before you set off

The Auob Panoramic Route in Namibia is an awe-inspiring 356 km journey that takes you from the quaint town of Stampriet to the historic city of Keetmanshoop, meandering through the picturesque villages of Gochas and Koes. As you traverse this route, you'll be enveloped by the vastness of Namibia's diverse landscapes, ranging from golden grasslands to rocky outcrops, offering an indelible Road Trip experience steeped in natural beauty and tranquility.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Fish River Canyon: This majestic natural wonder is the second largest canyon in the world and presents some of the most dramatic views you'll ever witness. Its immense size and the serpentine path of the Fish River offer a humbling perspective on nature's grandeur.
• Quiver Tree Forest: Home to the iconic quiver tree or `Kokerboom` (Aloidendron dichotomum), this enchanting forest is a surreal collection of these prehistoric-looking plants that can live up to three centuries and are endemic to the hot, dry southern part of the African continent.

Best Time to Go:

Embarking on the Auob Panoramic Route is most rewarding during the dry season, which spans from April to October. During these months, the weather is milder, making it ideal for both comfortable travel and leisurely exploration of the striking vistas and landmarks.

Potential Risks:

Adventurers should note that while the route is strikingly beautiful, it can also present challenges due to varying Road conditions. Some stretches may be poorly maintained, necessitating cautious driving and a sturdy, well-equipped vehicle, especially if you're venturing off the main Roads.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Auob Panoramic Route is inclusive and offers a memorable experience for travelers of all kinds, whether on a tight budget or seeking luxury.
• It is crucial to have a dependable vehicle, preferably a 4x4, that can navigate the terrain of the route confidently.
• Include in your itinerary ample time for rest stops at key attractions to fully immerse yourself in the panoramic splendor and to take in the serene ambiance of Namibia's countryside.

A good choice for:

Traveling the Auob Panoramic Route is more than just a drive; it's an exploration of Namibia's soul-stirring wilderness and a testament to the timeless allure of the open Road. It's an adventure perfectly suited for those who crave an authentic encounter with the vast, untamed landscapes of this captivating corner of the world.