To the Namib Naukluft Scenic Route

Experience the Namib Naukluft Scenic Route, a 301 km road trip starting in Windhoek, Namibia, and ending in Sesriem, Namibia. Along the way, you will pass through the town of Solitaire, where you can visit the famous bakery. The best time to drive this route is during the dry season, from May to October. The route is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Namib Desert, the Naukluft Mountains, and the Kuiseb Canyon. Although the roads are partly curvy and partly narrow, this trip is suitable for all drivers. Keep in mind, however, that the overall road conditions may not be ideal. Despite this, the Namib Naukluft Scenic Route will provide you with an unforgettable experience and memories that will last a lifetime. This trip can be managed with a fair budget, and is recommended to be completed in one day.

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is the perfect starting point for a road trip along the Namib Naukluft Scenic Route. Located in the middle of the country, Windhoek is a bustling city with plenty of attractions to explore. For those arriving by air, Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) is the closest airport. Car rentals are available at the airport for those who wish to explore the country by car. The city itself offers plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. Highlights include the national museum, the Old Fort, the Christuskirche, and the Tintenpalast building. Additionally, the city boasts a vibrant nightlife with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to enjoy. Windhoek is also a great place to pick up supplies for the road ahead. The vibrant markets and shops offer a range of items, from food and drinks to souvenirs and local arts and crafts. Once you have what you need, head out of town and start your journey along the Namib Naukluft Scenic Route. From Windhoek you can explore the mountains and deserts of Namibia, as well as the unique wildlife and landscapes of the region. With so much to see and do, Windhoek is the perfect starting point for a road trip along the Namib Naukluft Scenic Route.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Windhoek to Solitaire! This 218 km journey will take you less than 6 hours to complete and is a great way to explore the stunning landscapes of Namibia. We recommend a 4WD car for this route, as some sections are inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Make sure to fill up on gas when you can, as there are not many gas stations along the way. Be prepared for steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections. You'll be amazed at the historical sites and picturesque landscapes you'll find along the way. Make sure to take plenty of pictures, as you won't want to forget the scenic roads you'll be driving on. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready for a road trip you won't soon forget!

Begin your journey in Solitaire, Namibia, located 83 km away from Sesriem. In less than one hour you can drive this scenic road and admire the picturesque landscapes. A 4WD car is advisable for this section of the tour. Along the way you can visit the Solitaire Oasis and the Bavarian-style bakery, where you can taste delicious pastries and cakes. You can also explore the Quiver Tree Forest, a unique and beautiful forest of Aloe dichotoma trees. When you arrive in Sesriem, you can visit the Sesriem Canyon, a spectacular canyon with steep walls and fascinating rock formations. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip and have a great adventure!

The Namib Naukluft Scenic Route is an unforgettable road trip through the Namib Desert in Namibia and ends in the desert oasis of Sesriem. Sesriem is the gateway to the Namib-Naukluft National Park, home to some of the best desert wildlife and scenery in Africa. The town of Sesriem itself is small but offers guests a great selection of restaurants, shops, and accommodation. It is also the starting point for exploration of the nearby Sossusvlei, a salt and clay pan surrounded by some of the highest sand dunes in the world. For those who enjoy a spot of nature, Sesriem is also home to some of the most spectacular birdlife in Namibia. Here visitors can spot the endemic Tractrac Chat, Burchell's Starling, and the Karoo Eremomela. The nearby Sesriem Canyon is a must-see for any traveler along the Namib Naukluft Scenic Route. The canyon is one of the oldest geological formations in Namibia and offers stunning views and photo opportunities. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH). The Namib Naukluft Scenic Route is the perfect opportunity to explore the beauty of the Namib Desert and to experience the vibrant culture of Namibia. The end of the road trip, Sesriem, provides the perfect base for exploration of the spectacular desert wildlife and scenery, as well as the opportunity to take in the stunning views of the Sesriem Canyon.

Before you set off

The Namib Naukluft Scenic Route is an awe-inspiring 301 km journey that begins in Windhoek, Namibia's capital city and culminates in the gateway to the majestic dunes of Sossusvlei, Sesriem. This route is celebrated for its diverse and stunning landscapes, which offer a glimpse into the stark beauty of this Southern African nation.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

As you traverse the vast Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world, you'll be surrounded by some of the highest dunes on the planet. The route also takes you through the rugged Naukluft Mountains, part of a combined national park that protects unique plant and wildlife species. The formidable Kuiseb Canyon, carved over millions of years by the Kuiseb River, is a geological wonder not to be missed. En route, the small town of Solitaire awaits its famed Moose McGregor Desert Bakery, a delightful oasis known for its delicious apple pie – a welcome treat in the desert.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal time to experience this Road Trip is during the dry season from May to October. During these months, you are likely to enjoy clear skies, cooler temperatures, and minimal rainfall, which makes for perfect Road Trip weather and easier access to the desert's attractions. Wildlife viewing is also at its best during this period as animals congregate around water sources.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should remain vigilant for the varying Road conditions, which can include gravel and unpaved stretches, and be mindful of the occasional sharp turns and narrow passes, especially in mountainous areas. It's important to ensure that your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with supplies such as water, food, and emergency tools. Cell phone reception can be spotty, so plan.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The journey can be comfortably completed within a single day, but to fully savor the experience, consider spreading it over a couple of days. The route is accessible to drivers of all skill levels, and there are accommodation options along the way that cater to a range of budgets. Namibia is known for its conservation efforts, and the Namib-Naukluft Park is a testament to this, being one of the largest conservation areas in Africa and home to some unique flora and fauna adapted to the arid environment.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Namib Naukluft Scenic Route is more than just a Road Trip; it's an exploration of Namibia's natural wonders and a journey through time, with landscapes that have been shaped over millions of years. This route offers travelers the opportunity to witness the raw and powerful beauty of the desert, the resilience of desert-adapted wildlife, and the enduring allure of untouched wilderness.