South Africa is often the starting point for travel to the broader region, and with good reason. Johannesburg is the leading international gateway into Southern Africa, offering frequent connections into Namibia and beyond. For travellers flying in or out of Windhoek via Joburg, South Africa becomes an easy and logical addition to your itinerary — whether for a few days of relaxation or a deeper dive into its diverse regions.
As a destination, South Africa contrasts beautifully with Namibia’s open deserts and remote wilderness. Here, you’ll find vibrant African cities, lush wine valleys, wild coastlines, and a diverse cultural heritage — all connected by excellent infrastructure and travel services.
At Lark Journeys, we design itineraries that combine Namibia and South Africa, tailored to your route, timing, and interests. Whether you’re driving overland from the Fish River Canyon or adding time in Cape Town or Johannesburg at either end of your safari, we’ll help you make the most of your time.

Why Add South Africa to Your Namibia Safari?

South Africa adds depth, diversity, and accessibility to your Namibian itinerary. You can rehydrate after a visit to the Namib Desert with a few days in the Winelands, or balance remote safari time with Cape Town’s cosmopolitan atmosphere. For the more adventurous, South Africa also offers offbeat routes that link beautifully with Namibia, such as the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park or the mountainous Cederberg region.

Highlights of South Africa.

Cape Town
One of the world’s most iconic cities, with Table Mountain, beaches, and a buzzing food and arts scene. Ideal for a 3–4 day extension.
Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
Home to historic estates, award-winning wines, and top-tier restaurants — perfect for relaxing after time in the bush.
West Coast
A remote stretch of coastline north of Cape Town with small towns, wild beaches, and seasonal flower displays. Pairs well with the southern regions of Namibia.
Cederberg Mountains
Quiet, dramatic, and often overlooked — these rugged hills offer hiking, San rock art, and peaceful retreats.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
A red-dune wilderness that straddles the borders of Namibia, South Africa, and Botswana. 
Namaqualand
Best known for its spring wildflower season (August to early October), Namaqualand lies just south of Namibia and connects easily via the Orange River. It’s a natural extension for self-drivers exploring Namibia’s south, offering a seasonal burst of colour and quiet rural charm.
Cradle of Humankind
Just outside Johannesburg, this important paleoanthropological site is where some of the world’s oldest hominid fossils were discovered and easily visited as a half- or full-day trip if you’re flying through Johannesburg en route to or from Namibia.

How It Combines With Namibia

Travellers often drive between Namibia and South Africa via the Orange River, connecting areas like Fish River Canyon or the Richtersveld with South Africa’s West Coast or Northern Cape. Alternatively, it’s easy to fly from Windhoek or Walvis Bay to Cape Town or Johannesburg, providing access to a range of experiences, from luxury city breaks to remote national parks.
The combination works exceptionally well for those wanting to balance adventure with comfort, or to add coastal and cultural elements to a primarily land-based safari.

When to Travel

South Africa can be visited year-round, although the timing may vary depending on your destination. The Cape is best from October to April (dry and warm), while the Kgalagadi and West Coast are ideal in the drier winter months (May to September). 

Travel With Us

Whether you’re flying into Cape Town after exploring Namibia’s Skeleton Coast or planning a road trip from Windhoek to the Cape, we’ll design a custom route that seamlessly links both countries. Let us know what interests you — wild parks, wine farms, desert drives or coastal walks — and we’ll put the pieces together.
Get in touch to explore how South Africa can be part of your Southern African adventure.