Cape Town to Windhoek: West Coast self-drive

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Cape Town.

On arrival into Cape Town you will be met by an Audley representative to assist with the immigration process and then your transfer to your hotel nearby. In the afternoon you can explore the city and visit some interesting community projects supported by the Uthando charity.

Your hire car will be delivered to your hotel this morning and you set off along the coast towards Langebaan. We would recommend stopping for lunch at !Khwa Ttu San Bushman centre for lunch on your way through for a fascinating insight into the history of the local inhabitants.

Today you have the opportunity to fully explore the West Coast National Park. During the months of August to October the highlight is the sea of wild flowers carpeting the landscape and at other times there are paths to follow on foot or bicycle.

Leave the West coast today and head inland to the Cederberg Mountains. This afternoon, after checking into your room at Bushmans Kloof, you can go out on a sunset drive in open game viewing vehicles, it's a great way of getting out to experience your surroundings. Drinks and snacks are served at one of the many vantage points in the reserve before returning to the lodge for dinner.

Start today with an excursion to view rock art. With over 130 rock art sites, Bushmans Kloof represents one of the most densely painted rock art areas in South Africa. A glorious morning drive and a short hike through the aromatic fynbos leads you to secret caves where your guide will provide insight into the ancient lost culture of the San and their fascinating spirit world.

With walking trails to suit all fitness levels. Biking, canoeing and swimming amongst a wealth of other experiences there is plenty on offer to fill your day. Alternatively you may choose to relax, spa, read and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Head further north out of the Cederberg Mountains and into Namaqualand where the spring flowers await.

Head out today and enjoy walks from Naries amongst over 4,000 species of flowers during the high flower season.

The surrounding landscape includes the diamond coast hosting three notable shipwrecks and the Richtersveld National Park which runs through the border into Namibia and on to the Fish River Canyon.

From Springbok drive north and cross the border into Namibia. Continue into the Fish River Canyon and check in at Fish River Lodge overlooking the canyon.

Today, head out on a guided hike to the base of the Fish River Canyon. This hike takes in the stunning scenery of the canyon and a rock pool and picnic await you at the bottom. The hike is a full day out from the lodge.

Day at leisure at the lodge. Further hikes around the canyon are a must here. Alternatively head out in your 4x4 to explore the western side of the canyon.

Leave the Fish River Canyon today and make your way to Luderitz on the coast.

Head to the nearby ghost diamond mine town of Kolmanskop for a guided tour today. Kolmanskop marked the start of the diamond mining rush in Namibia and the tour offers a superb insight into the day to day lives of this once thriving mining town now engulfed by the desert sands.

Board your flight to Windhoek and onwards home. Your return flight will arrive the same day.