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VAST
Extending beyond the limits of perception, encompassing boundless expanses that evoke a sense of awe and wonder.
Sometimes, it appears people travel simply for the novelty of it, seeking out far-off and unusual destinations. Yet, Namibia defies this trend. Namibia epitomizes travel in search of boundless expanses. It's a place that satisfies the genuine adventurer, presenting trials beyond conventional travel. RAID's voyage through Namibia's northern frontier symbolizes the apex of ten years committed to exploring, shaping, and navigating through the most isolated corners of the globe.
Namibia is a feast for the senses, with otherworldly landscapes, jaw-dropping wildlife, and beautiful luxury lodges. Only in Namibia can watching a single elephant be far more powerful than witnessing an entire herd, and can staring out at a sea of sand feel like a religious experience. That's partially thanks to the otherworldly landscapes, which elevate every wildlife sighting and outing to supernatural status. Jagged mountains rising purple and blue behind his approaching and growing silhouette but Namibia is arguably about quality over quantity, and colors so wild you almost don't believe your eyes.
*Non-riding partners are warmly welcomed on this trip. It's recommended that they bring a sense of adventure to fully embrace the experience. Please feel free to contact us to discuss this option further.
D1 ARRIVAL WINDHOEK
Before setting foot in Namibia, we encourage travellers to first land in Cape Town, South Africa — the perfect soft landing before the gravel begins. Spend a few days — or even a week — acclimatizing to the pace of the continent: hike Table Mountain at sunrise, visit Cape Good Hope where two oceans meet, wander the winery valleys of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and let the air, the light, and the rhythm of the country settle your body and reset your clock. When you eventually cross into Namibia, you arrive not jet-lagged and rushed — but tuned in and ready.
Upon arrival in Windhoek, Namibia, you’ll be greeted and transferred to The Weinberg Hotel, your first foothold on Namibian ground. Settle into your room, unwind, or begin preparing your bike if you’re eager to get hands-on. At check-in, you’ll receive a RAID welcome bag — a curated collection of essentials designed specifically for comfort and hydration in the arid desert climate. It’s your first sign that the expedition has begun.
The day is yours to explore. Windhoek is a bridge between worlds — part modern capital, part frontier. Stand before the sandstone spire of Christuskirche, wander the Independence Memorial Museum, walk the grounds of Alte Feste, or drift through the street markets and malls to feel the current of everyday life. At some point, try kapana or biltong from a street vendor — a rite of passage for any traveler arriving in Namibia. As the sun dips — quickly, as Africa does — take in your first Namibian sunset from The Weinberg’s Sky Lounge, looking out across the valley with a glass in hand. “Weinberg” means vineyard, and it lives up to the name with an impressive wine list and a quietly elevated atmosphere that eases you into the journey ahead.
Dinner tonight requires no logistics — it’s just steps away at the on-site Cape Town Fish Market, where South African flavors and local hospitality meet at the table. Eat well, hydrate, and sleep deeply. Tomorrow the tone shifts. Tonight, you simply arrive.
Welcome to Namibia. Your RAID begins soon.
D2 WINDHOEK - TSAUCHAB
59mi / 94km ✧ +915ft / 280m
We leave before dawn, heading south into the Hardap Region. The road runs for 2.5 hours, and with every kilometer the world simplifies. Fewer signs. Less signal. More space. This is the edge of the Kalahari Craton, where ancient rock lies exposed and the land shows its age openly. Rain is brief here. Vegetation survives by patience and depth.
Klein Aub appears as a memory of industry — once a copper town, now mostly silence. What remains is Conny’s Coffee Shop, improbably alive. Solar-powered, weathered, and real. A place that shouldn’t exist, but does. We stop here to stage the ride, drink coffee, check bolts, and take a last moment of ease before the desert begins.
From here, the road becomes 95 kilometers of gravel. Corrugation and sand stretch between mountain ranges: the Naukluft to the north, the flat-cut Zaris to the south. The valley between them is immense and quiet. The desert doesn’t announce itself — it accumulates, kilometer by kilometer, until effort replaces conversation.
By late afternoon we follow the line of the Tsauchab River, dry more often than not, toward Tsauchab River Camp — once a Karakul farm, now a remote refuge on the edge of Sossusvlei, and home to Johan and Nicky Steyn. Fig trees mark hidden water. Wildlife moves at a distance. There are no towns, no signal, no noise beyond wind and wheels. We arrive as the light fades. The land settles. So do we.
D3 TSAUCHAB - KULALA DESERT LODGE
Touring 43mi / 69km ✧ +565ft / 172m
Passhunter 65mi / 105km ✧ +1,015ft / 309m
We wake with the sun and ride the ghost of a river.
The Tsauchab river once ran from the Naukluft Mountains all the way to the Atlantic, powerful enough to carve rock and push back sand. Then the desert advanced. Around 60,000 years ago, the Namib dunes closed its path and stranded the river inland at Sossusvlei. Today it flows only after rare rains, yet it remains the lifeline of this place — sustaining oryx, springbok, ostrich, and desert-adapted life. Long before roads, the San moved through here. Others followed, drawn by isolation and silence.
The day begins on a private access road, the first 8 km rolling quietly through open desert — eyes up for wildlife in the grass and shade. We ride together for 25 km, then the route divides.
The Touring route takes the most direct line, following private farm tracks we have special access to, cutting across a 7,000-hectare ranch toward the lodge. It’s the early-arrival option — time to slow down, sit poolside, and let the afternoon unfold.
The Passhunter stays north on the C19. Not much longer, but more exposed — open gravel, wind, and a brief stretch of pavement as the route passes through Sesriem before turning south again.
Both routes lead to Wilderness Kulala Desert Lodge, set on the edge of Sossusvlei — a natural gateway to the Namib Sand Sea, Deadvlei, and Sesriem Canyon. Remote, intentional, and deeply quiet. A place to recover, reflect, and prepare for what comes next.
Wilderness Kulala Desert Lodge
Set deep in the Namib Desert on a vast private reserve, Wilderness Kulala Desert Lodge is defined by space, silence, and intention. Reached by a long private gravel road, the lodge sits on the edge of Sossusvlei, offering rare access toward the Namib Sand Sea while remaining removed from the crowds of the park gates. Accommodation is refined and understated — open, airy suites designed to dissolve into the landscape — and each evening staff place mattresses outdoors, inviting guests to lie back and watch the stars sweep across one of the darkest night skies on Earth. With dedicated guides, thoughtful food, and long shaded afternoons between excursions, Kulala is not about spectacle, but proximity — to the dunes, the silence, and the rhythm of the desert itself.
O/N Wilderness Kulala Desert Lodge
D4 - SOSSUSVLEI
27mi / 44km ✧ +423ft / 129m
+2.5-3hrs of desert Hiking
A Day of Sand — Sossusvlei
Today is about sand. Nothing else.
We’re up before the sun. Coffee. Light food. Then we roll — bikes moving quietly along a private desert line, slipping into Sossusvlei National Park as the dunes catch first light. A hard ribbon of pavement pulls us deep into the Namib, the oldest desert on Earth. The walls of sand rise. The world strips back.
At the end of the road, the ride stops. Cold towels. Cold drinks. Shoes off, boots on. The work begins.
We climb Big Daddy — slow, honest steps into ancient sand, every foot sinking, every breath earned. From the top, it’s nothing but dunes to the horizon. Wind. Light. Space.
Then the drop — running, sliding, letting gravity take over — straight into Deadvlei. White clay. Black trees. A thousand years standing still.
Our guides build a simple camp for lunch. Shade. Water. Silence. Then we move again, rolling through the park to Sesriem Canyon, walking the cut carved by the Tsauchab River, eyes open for the Small Five, the adder, life hiding where it can.
By late afternoon, the desert loosens its grip. Our guides bring us back to the lodge. Sand washes off. The day settles. Another night in the desert waits — stars overhead, nothing to interrupt the quiet.
O/N Wilderness Kulala Desert Lodge
D5 THE ERONGOS
27mi / 44km ✧ +423ft / 129m
Today's cycling route will trace the path of the Omaruru River as it winds through the region, sustaining the local flora and fauna. Following the training rides that Dan embarked on in the early stages of his career, our loop showcases rugged mountains, vast plains, and rocky formations, creating a visually stunning landscape.
Despite the arid desert environment characterized by sparse vegetation, the area teems with wildlife, including antelopes, birds, and smaller mammals. At the completion of morning ride, we'll unwind with a glass of chardonnay along the Omaruru River at the boutique Erongo Mountain Winery. Indulge in a tasting of their various wines and savor a gourmet lunch at their restaurant, the Jewel, featuring delectable game steaks, salads, and desserts paired with Namibian-made wines and spirits.
After lunch, we'll take a short transfer into the charming town of Omaruru, known for its artistic vibe. Here, Dan from Onguza Bicycles will regale us with the story of returning to his native Namibia to fulfill his dream of framebuilding. He established a small factory where a dedicated team of local artisans has been quietly perfecting their craft for over five years. Now, they're prepared to introduce their steel bikes to the global market. Dan and his extraordinary team will guide us on a tour of their workshop, showcasing their passion and expertise in framebuilding.
Before we return to our lodge, you'll have some free time to explore the charming village of Omaruru. Renowned for its vibrant artistic community, the town boasts numerous art galleries, craft shops, and creative spaces to discover. Dan recommends visiting a wood carving shop called Tokoloshe.
O/N O/N Ondudu Safari Lodge
D6 THE ERONGO - dAMARALAND
Alt- Ondudu - Iaba?
xxx mi / xxx Ft
Riding through Damaraland in Namibia is a captivating experience that immerses you in a rugged and awe-inspiring landscape. The terrain is characterized by vast expanses of desert punctuated by rocky outcrops, towering mountains, and ancient riverbeds. As you pedal through this wild terrain, you'll encounter breathtaking vistas of dramatic rock formations, expansive plains, and rugged canyons carved by the elements over millennia. Wildlife such as desert-adapted elephants, giraffes, and antelopes may occasionally grace our journey, adding to the sense of adventure and connection with nature. The ever-changing colors of the desert landscape, from rich reds and oranges to golden hues, create a mesmerizing backdrop for our ride, making every pedal stroke a memorable experience.
Nestled amidst the rugged landscape and colossal red granite boulders of southern Damaraland, the Sorris Sorris lodge seamlessly blends minimalist Scandinavian design with opulent comfort, offering breathtaking views of the occasionally arid Ugab River and the towering Brandberg Massif.
Sorris Sorris leaves no detail overlooked, boasting a meticulously curated menu, stylishly lavish room designs, and impeccable service standards. It stands as one of the most exclusive and priciest accommodations in this secluded corner of Damaraland. The lodge is so far away from everything and everyone you will not hear any other sound than deafening silence in your ears.
With its position right at the foot of Brandberg and on the Ugab River, Sorris Sorris is perfectly located for exciting activities in the area. The Ugab River system, while dried-out for most of the year, is the home to three large groups of desert-adapted-elephants.
O/N Sorris Sorris Lodge
Looking for rhino
D7 dAMARALAND (Uis) - TWYFELFONTEIN
Alt Uis - Stagsohomere? Spelling to TWYFELFONTEIN
xxx mi / xxx Ft
The terrain in Damaraland is characterized by vast gravel plains, ready to explored by bike. Rugged mountains, rocky outcrops, and expansive desert landscapes. It features scattered vegetation adapted to arid conditions, along with rocky hillsides and dry riverbeds. The area is renowned for its stunning geological formations, including towering granite boulders and the iconic Brandberg Mountain. Wildlife such as desert-adapted elephants, antelopes, and various bird species can also be found in this diverse and picturesque region.
Nestled within the core of southern Damaraland, bordered by Namibia's Ugab and Huab rivers, the elegant Mowani Mountain Camp enjoys a breathtaking setting. Positioned atop a rocky promontory, the camp is embraced by expansive granite boulders and offers magnificent vistas stretching across gravel plains to the distant mountains.
D8 TWYFELFONTEIN
xxx mi / xxx Ft
The Twyfelfontein, Burnt Mountain, and Organ Pipes ride offers a captivating journey through Namibia's geological wonders. Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases ancient rock engravings dating back thousands of years, providing insight into the region's rich cultural history. Burnt Mountain, with its distinctive blackened slopes, offers a stark contrast to the surrounding landscape and provides a glimpse into the area's volcanic past. The Organ Pipes, a unique rock formation resembling a series of organ pipes, is a testament to the forces of nature that have shaped Damaraland over millions of years. This ride promises a fascinating exploration of Namibia's natural and cultural heritage.
Cycling through The Twyfelfontein, Burnt Mountain, and Organ Pipes region offers a truly immersive experience in Namibia's rugged beauty and geological wonders. As you pedal through this stunning landscape, you'll be surrounded by ancient rock formations, towering granite boulders, and expansive gravel plains. The cycling route takes you past Twyfelfontein, where you can pause to admire the ancient rock engravings etched into the sandstone by early inhabitants thousands of years ago.
Continuing your journey, you'll encounter the dramatic slopes of Burnt Mountain, its darkened hues contrasting against the bright desert sky. The challenging terrain adds an exhilarating element to your ride as you navigate through the rugged paths and rocky outcrops.
Reaching the Organ Pipes, you'll marvel at the unique rock formations resembling towering pipes, carved over millennia by the forces of erosion. The sheer scale and otherworldly appearance of these geological wonders create a sense of awe and wonder as you cycle through this remarkable landscape.
D9 TWYFELFONTEIN - WINDHOEK
Alt: fly from TWYFELFONTEIN to Arandis
We awake for the sunrise and to ready ourselves for a morning hike. The trail meanders through the rocky terrain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area at every turn. You'll have the chance to witness the interplay of light and shadow as the sun casts its warm glow over the ancient rock formations, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Along the way, keep an eye out for indigenous flora and fauna adapted to thrive in this arid environment. Desert-adapted plants such as the iconic quiver tree and hardy succulents dot the landscape, while opportunistic wildlife such as lizards and birds may make fleeting appearances.
As you ascend to higher vantage points, the scenery becomes even more awe-inspiring, with sweeping vistas stretching out before you. Take a moment to pause and soak in the tranquility of the desert wilderness, feeling a profound sense of connection to the natural world.
We will check out around 11 today and take a short transfer to the private airstrip at Twyfelfontein, just 15 km away. From Twyfelfontein we will take the 1h45m flight to Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek. Our vehicles and team would have left very early in the morning to make the 590km drive to Windhoek. Your bicycles and extra luggage will be awaiting you at our departure hotel.
Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia, is cradled amid undulating hills, embraced by the Eros Mountains to the east, the Auas Mountains to the south, and the Khomas Hochland to the west. It serves as a convergence point between continents and cultures, blending elements of Africa and Europe, tradition and modernity.
Strolling along the city's main thoroughfare, one encounters a captivating juxtaposition of heritage and innovation. Immaculately preserved German colonial buildings stand in stark contrast to sleek, contemporary architectural marvels. Amid this architectural tapestry, Herero women adorned in their distinctive Victorian attire intermingle with cosmopolitan professionals adorned in the latest fashion trends.
O/N Galton House
fly into Khan river
D10 WINDHOEK - Khan River to the moon Landscape
This morning, we will prepare for our departure from Windhoek, departing from Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH).
