Southern Africa Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable road trip of Southern Africa! Starting in Windhoek, Namibia, this 28-day journey will take you through some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes of the region. Along the way, you will visit Okaukuejo, Fort Namutoni, Kasane, Matetsi, Bulawayo, and Sesriem, covering a total distance of 7618 km.
The best time to drive this route is during the dry season, from May to November. During this time, you can witness the grandeur of the savannahs, desert landscapes, and the diverse wildlife that inhabit the area. The region is also home to several UNESCO Heritage Monuments, so make sure to take some time to appreciate them as you go.
Be aware that the roads in this region can be quite poor, with some parts being narrow, and seasonal closures due to weather conditions may occur. You will also need to be aware of and prepared for border crossings.
Despite these challenges, the Southern Africa Road Trip is suitable for every driver and can be done on a moderate budget. It's an experience that will provide you with a lifetime of memories, so be sure to take the time to appreciate the beauty of the region.
28
number of days
7,595 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the left
traffic direction
fair
accident level
Distance 7,595 km
Driving time 111.9 h
Pace: fast
2,278.5 kWh
Airports
WDH
,
ERS
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Windhoek, Namibia is the perfect starting point for the "Southern Africa Road Trip". Located in the heart of the country, Windhoek is the ideal place to get acquainted with the Namibian culture and atmosphere. The city is full of attractions and activities that will make your stay memorable.
The Christuskirche, Windhoek’s iconic Lutheran church, is a must-see for all visitors. Its unique architecture and vibrant interior will charm you. The National Museum of Namibia and the Old Fort are also worth a visit for a deeper understanding of the country's history. For nature lovers, the city also has a variety of parks and gardens, such as the Zoo Park and the National Botanical Garden, where you can observe the impressive flora and fauna of the region.
The nearest international airport to Windhoek is Hosea Kutako International Airport (IATA: WDH). It is the largest airport in Namibia and serves as the country’s main gateway. Car rental services are available at the airport, so renting a car is a great option to start your journey and explore the city at your own pace.
Windhoek is the perfect destination to begin your “Southern Africa Road Trip”. With its vibrant culture, rich history and a wide range of attractions, Windhoek is the ideal starting point for your adventure.
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1
Windhoek
- Okaukuejo
Distance 440 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: fast
132.0 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Starting in Windhoek, Namibia and ending in Okaukuejo, this 440km journey will take you fewer than 5 hours to complete. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in the area.
In Windhoek, be sure to visit the Alte Feste, a 19th century fort that is now a museum. After that, head to the Christuskirche, a beautiful 19th century church. Then, take a detour to the Daan Viljoen Game Reserve to admire the wildlife.
As you continue your journey, you will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes of the Kalahari Desert. Make a stop in Kamanjab to visit the Himba Village and learn about their culture.
Finally, make your way to Okaukuejo to explore the Etosha National Park. Here, you can observe the wildlife in its natural habitat.
Remember that more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on this amazing road trip!
2
Okaukuejo
- Halali
Distance 70 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
18.2 kWh
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Start your road trip in Okaukuejo, Namibia, and get ready to explore the wonders of Etosha National Park! This 70 km journey will take you less than 2 hours to complete and will leave you with memories of breathtaking landscapes and scenic roads. As you make your way, be sure to keep an eye out for the picturesque sights that Etosha has to offer. In some sections, camper trailers will not be able to access, so plan accordingly. Along the way, you'll find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites to explore. Finally, you'll arrive at Halali, the end of this stage of your road trip. Be sure to check the itinerary for more information about the sights and attractions along the way. Enjoy your journey!
3
Halali
- Fort Namutoni
Distance 69 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: modest
18.0 kWh
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Start your road trip journey in Halali, Namibia and explore the wonders of Etosha National Park along the way to Fort Namutoni. This 69km journey will take you less than 2 hours to complete, and you will be able to experience the beauty of the African savanna and the wildlife that inhabits it. As you drive, take in the scenic views of the landscape and be aware that there are some sections that are inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Along the way, you will find many interesting places to visit, such as the Etosha Pan, the Okaukuejo Waterhole, and the Namutoni Fort. Make sure to take the time to explore these places and learn more about the area. You will be able to find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey and make the most of your road trip experience!
4
Fort Namutoni
- Kongola
Distance 823 km
Driving time 9.4 h
Pace: fast
247.0 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip starting in Fort Namutoni, Namibia? This 823 km journey will take you through some of the most beautiful places in the country, such as Tsumeb and Rundu, before ending in Kongola. The entire journey should take no more than 9 hours.
As you make your way through Fort Namutoni, be sure to keep an eye out for the picturesque landscapes. Tsumeb is home to the Otavi Mountainlands, a unique geological formation that is sure to take your breath away. Rundu is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Okavango River. Finally, Kongola is the perfect place to relax and take in the stunning views of the Kwando River.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to experience a road trip like no other!
5
Kongola
- Kasane
Distance 238 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: fast
71.4 kWh
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Start your road trip adventure in Kongola, Namibia and explore the beauty of Chobe National Park, located only 231km away from Kongola, and reachable in less than three hours of driving. As you cross the border and drive through the stunning landscapes, you will find yourself surrounded by breathtaking views and stunning wildlife. Keep your eyes open for the many species of animals that you can spot in the park, from elephants and antelopes to giraffes and zebras. Don't forget to take some amazing pictures of the scenery. After your visit to Chobe National Park, you will arrive in Kasane, the perfect spot to end your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your road trip adventure!
6
Kasane
- Victoria Falls
Distance 83 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: modest
21.5 kWh
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Ready to explore the beauty of Botswana? Let's start a road trip from Kasane to Victoria Falls! This 83 km journey will take you less than 2 hours, and you'll get to cross the Botswana-Zimbabwe border. Along the way, you'll be able to enjoy the picturesque landscapes, and you'll even pass by UNESCO Heritage sites. Don't forget to fill up your tank before you start your journey, as you may not find any gas stations along the way. When you reach Victoria Falls, you'll be able to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!
7
Victoria Falls
- Matetsi
Distance 111 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: modest
28.9 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe to Matetsi! This 111 km journey will take you less than 3 hours, and a 4WD car is advised for the best experience. You may find some sections of the road inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, and it is important to note that there are limited gas stations along the route. Additionally, some sections may be closed seasonally. The roads are narrow in some sections, so drive with care!
During this journey, make sure to take in the sights of the breathtaking Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, and the Matetsi Game Reserve, home to some of Africa's most impressive wildlife. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
8
Matetsi
- Hwange N.P.
Distance 214 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
55.6 kWh
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Embark on an adventurous road trip from Matetsi, Zimbabwe to Hwange National Park! This 214km journey takes less than 5 hours and is best explored in a 4WD car. Enjoy the scenic drive as you pass through the rural areas and small towns. Keep an eye out for possible gas stations, as some sections of the route may not have them. Also, certain sections of the road may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and the road may be narrow in some areas. Along the way, you can visit the Matetsi Safari Area, the Mlibizi Game Reserve, and the Dete Safari Area. After the drive, you can explore the wonders of Hwange National Park. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
9
Hwange N.P.
- Bulawayo
Distance 291 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: fast
87.4 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip starting in the stunning Hwange National Park and ending in the vibrant city of Bulawayo? Stretching for 291 km and taking less than 5 hours to drive, this stage of your tour will surely be one to remember.
As you drive, keep an eye out for the picturesque landscapes, including the vast savannahs, woodlands, and seasonal wetlands of Hwange National Park. Don't forget to make a stop at the beautiful Dete Hot Springs, and take a walk around the local villages.
Once you reach Bulawayo, you'll be able to explore the many attractions the city has to offer. Visit the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, the Khami Ruins, and the Matobo National Park. Don't forget to take a stroll around the city center and enjoy the bustling life of the city.
If you need more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
10
Bulawayo
- Middleburg
Distance 812 km
Driving time 11.8 h
Pace: fast
243.6 kWh
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Are you ready to start an amazing road trip from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe to Middleburg? This 812 km journey will take you less than 11 hours of driving, and you will cross the border into Polokwane. Along the way, you will see some of the most beautiful sights, from historical sites to picturesque landscapes. Don't forget to take pictures and make sure to take your time to enjoy the scenery!
From Bulawayo, you will be able to visit the Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Nesbitt Castle, a castle-like mansion built in the 1930s. In Polokwane, you can explore the Polokwane Game Reserve, where you can observe many species of animals in their natural habitat.
Finally, you will end your journey in Middleburg, where you can visit the Middelburg Nature Reserve, a beautiful area with a variety of flora and fauna. If you're looking for a unique experience, you can also take a tour of the De Hoop Dam, a large reservoir built in the late 1800s.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Now, buckle up and start your journey!
11
Middleburg
- St Lucia
Distance 496 km
Driving time 7.0 h
Pace: fast
148.8 kWh
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Embark on an exciting 496 km road trip from Middleburg to St Lucia! Along the way, you will be able to explore some of the most beautiful places in Republic of South Africa, including the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads of iSimangaliso National Park. This is one of the most spectacular UNESCO Heritage sites in South Africa and it is definitely worth a visit! You will be able to observe the diverse wildlife, enjoy the pristine beaches and explore the diverse wetlands.
During your road trip, you will also be able to explore some of the most interesting places in St Lucia, including the beautiful beaches, the unique wetlands and the fascinating wildlife.
This road trip is part of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your journey today!
12
St Lucia
- Durban
Distance 237 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
71.1 kWh
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Embark on an incredible road trip from St Lucia to Durban! This journey of 237 km will take you less than 3 hours to complete and will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Republic of South Africa.
Start your adventure in St Lucia, a small town located in the heart of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. Here, you can observe the rich wildlife of the area, including hippos, crocodiles, and the famous African big five.
Continue your journey to Durban, a bustling city located on the east coast of South Africa. Here, you can explore the city's vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Be sure to visit the iconic Victoria Street Market, where you can find unique souvenirs and local delicacies.
This stage is just one of the many stops on your road trip adventure. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Happy travels!
13
Durban
- East London
Distance 653 km
Driving time 8.7 h
Pace: fast
195.8 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Durban to East London? This 653 km journey will take you less than 9 hours and will be full of surprises. Along the way you will discover historical sites, picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. You can also enjoy the unique combination of coastal, mountain and grassland views.
Start your journey in Durban, one of the most vibrant cities in South Africa. Visit the uShaka Marine World and the Moses Mabhida Stadium, two of the most popular attractions in the city. Then, continue to East London, a city with a rich history and culture. Here, you can explore the East London Museum, the East London Zoological Gardens and the East London Botanical Gardens.
This is just one of the stages of an amazing road trip, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, don't wait any longer and enjoy this incredible journey!
14
East London
- Port Elizabeth
Distance 293 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: fast
87.8 kWh
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Are you ready to embark on an exciting road trip from East London to Port Elizabeth? This journey is only 293 km long and can be completed in less than 4 hours. On your way, you will get the chance to explore some of the most interesting places South Africa has to offer.
Start your trip in East London and explore the city's many historical sites. Then, take a scenic drive along the coastline to the quaint town of St Francis Bay. Here, you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes and take a stroll along the beach. As you continue your journey, make sure to stop in Jeffrey's Bay and admire the beauty of the local wildlife.
Your next stop is Port Elizabeth, a vibrant city with plenty of attractions. Here, you can visit the Donkin Reserve, the popular Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World, and the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
This stage of your road trip is sure to be a memorable one. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary. Enjoy the ride!
15
Port Elizabeth
- Mossel Bay
Distance 375 km
Driving time 4.3 h
Pace: fast
112.5 kWh
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Embark on a 375km road trip from Port Elizabeth to Mossel Bay and explore the beauty of the Eastern Cape! The drive will take you fewer than 5 hours, but there will be plenty of interesting sights to see along the way. Start your journey by visiting the Donkin Reserve in Port Elizabeth, a historical site with a beautiful view of the city. Drive along the Garden Route and make sure to take in the stunning views of the Indian Ocean. You'll find plenty of charming fishing villages and stunning beaches to explore. Stop in the town of Knysna, renowned for its natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Finally, arrive at Mossel Bay, where you can visit the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, a great place to learn about the history of the area. With more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route available in the Itinerary of this stage, you're sure to have a memorable journey!
16
Mossel Bay
- Struisbaai
Distance 269 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: fast
80.7 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Mossel Bay to Struisbaai! This 268km drive will take you less than 3 hours, with plenty of scenic roads and narrow sections along the way. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the most spectacular views of the ocean, as well as the rolling hills. Along the way, you can stop at the Diaz Museum Complex, where you can explore the history of the area, or take a break at the Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse. Once you reach Struisbaai, you can take a stroll along the beach, or take a boat trip to the nearby Dyer Island. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.
17
Struisbaai
- Cape Town
Distance 306 km
Driving time 6.5 h
Pace: modest
79.6 kWh
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Welcome to the beautiful road trip stage from Struisbaai to Cape Town! This is an amazing journey of 338 km that you can complete in fewer than 6 hours. Start your trip from Struisbaai, where you can find the most southern point of Africa and the longest stretch of uninterrupted beach. Then, head to the quaint town of Elim, where you can explore the old mission station and the Elim Dunes Nature Reserve. As you drive, you will be mesmerized by the stunning views of the Agulhas Plain and enjoy the rolling hills of the Overberg region. Once you reach Cape Agulhas, you will find the southernmost tip of Africa and a lighthouse that overlooks the Indian Ocean. Keep driving and you will arrive at the beautiful village of Gansbaai, where you can experience the unique marine life of Walker Bay. Finally, you will reach the vibrant city of Cape Town. Here, you can explore the iconic Table Mountain, visit the V&A Waterfront, and stroll along the beaches of Camps Bay. Make sure to pay attention to the scenic road that will take you all the way to your final destination. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
18
Cape Town
- Velddrif
Distance 150 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
44.9 kWh
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Embark on a road-trip adventure from Cape Town to Velddrif, an enchanting journey of just over 150km that will take you less than two hours. Along the way, you will be treated to some of the most spectacular views of the Western Cape, as well as some of the most stunning UNESCO Heritage sites. Keep your eyes peeled for the picturesque landscapes, the rolling hills, the winding roads and the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to take a detour to the historical sites, where you can learn about the rich history of the area. You will also have the opportunity to visit the charming fishing village of Velddrif, where you can take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the fresh sea air. From here, you can take a boat trip to the nearby island of Dassen or take a drive to the nearby nature reserve. No matter what you choose to do, you are sure to have a memorable experience! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
19
Velddrif
- Aussenkehr
Distance 674 km
Driving time 8.5 h
Pace: fast
202.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Velddrif, Republic of South Africa, and get ready to cross the border into Namibia. This 674 km journey, with fewer than 8 hours of driving time, will take you to Aussenkehr. Along the way, don't forget to visit the Knersvlakte Nature Reserve, the Strandveld Wine Estates and the Orange River Wine Cellars. You can also explore the Augrabies Falls National Park and the Kalahari Desert. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your road trip now!
20
Aussenkehr
- Aus
Distance 268 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: modest
69.7 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Aussenkehr, Namibia to Aus, covering a distance of 268 km and taking fewer than 5 hours to complete. As you drive along the scenic road, make sure you keep an eye out for possible lack of gas stations along the way. During the journey, make sure you take the time to explore the Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world, and the Aus Mountains, offering stunning views and breathtaking landscapes. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture the stunning beauty of the area. Don’t forget to take a break and enjoy the spectacular views of the area. There are plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, so make sure to check the Itinerary of this stage for more information. Enjoy your journey!
21
Aus
- Sesriem
Distance 373 km
Driving time 8.8 h
Pace: modest
97.1 kWh
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Embark on an adventure of a lifetime and take a road trip from Aus, Namibia to Sesriem. Along the way, you'll traverse the stunning Namib-Naukluft National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the breathtaking landscapes of this vast desert. The 373 km drive will take you fewer than 9 hours, and you'll need a 4WD car to traverse the terrain. Be aware that there may be little to no gas stations along the way, so plan accordingly.
The Namib-Naukluft National Park is a must-see, with its towering sand dunes, rugged mountains, and vast plains. Keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife, including the famous desert-dwelling elephants. You'll also have the chance to take in the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today!
22
Sesriem
- Windhoek
Distance 349 km
Driving time 6.4 h
Pace: modest
90.8 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Sesriem, Namibia to Windhoek, Namibia to experience the wonders of the Namibian landscape. This 348 km journey will take you fewer than 7 hours to complete and will be an unforgettable adventure. It is recommended to use a 4WD car to drive this section as there may be some steep ramps and a lack of gas stations. As you travel, take in the historical sites and picturesque landscapes that you pass. Enjoy the scenic roads, and take plenty of pictures along the way. Make sure to stop at the Solitaire Oasis, a tranquil spot surrounded by the Namib Desert, and the Namib-Naukluft National Park, a stunning expanse of desert, mountains, and canyons. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Windhoek
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The end of the "Southern Africa Road Trip" is the beautiful city of Windhoek in Namibia. Windhoek is a modern, vibrant city that has all the amenities one would expect from a capital city. It has a good selection of restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as a range of shops and markets for all your shopping needs.
For those wanting to explore, Windhoek is the ideal spot to start your journey. There are plenty of places to visit in the city, including the National Museum of Namibia, the Katutura Township, and the Zoo Park. For those looking for a more active experience, there is a range of outdoor activities to choose from, including hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
For those traveling by car, Windhoek is easily reached via the B1 highway, which runs from the South African border to the city center. Once you are there, you can explore the city on foot or by using the local public transport system.
For those traveling by air, Windhoek is served by Hosea Kutako International Airport (IATA: WDH). From there, you can take a shuttle to the city center or hire a car to explore the region.
No matter how you choose to get to Windhoek, you will be sure to find plenty of things to see and do. Whether it's exploring the city's many attractions or simply relaxing in the beautiful surrounds, this is the perfect end to the "Southern Africa Road Trip".
Southern Africa Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Windhoek
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End:
Windhoek
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Distance:
7,595 km
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Stay:
28 days
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Getting there:
Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH),
Eros Airport (ERS)
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When to drive:
January, March, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
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