Namaqua Eco Trail Pella To Port Nolloth 7-Day Tour

Join us for a truly immersive 7-day 4×4 camping tour along the iconic Namaqua Eco 4×4 Trail, one of South Africa’s most remote and scenic routes, traveling from Pella to Port Nolloth Via the Richtersveld.

Tour Details

Cost

R 6 995.00 p/p

Add R1800 for Single Occupant

Max 10 Vehicles

Departure

7-Days – 12th to 18th April 2026

10th to 16th May 2026

21st to 27th June 2026

19th to 25th July 2026

12th to 18th October 2026

Route

Klein Pella to Okiep Country Hotel

01.WHAT TO EXPECT

Tour Details

Our meeting starts bright and early at 8am at the Klein Pella Camp Site. Make sure you have arrived the day before to be on time for the meeting brief. After our meeting, we depart on the Namaqua Eco Trail,wild camping for three nights along the banks of the Orange River on the Namaqua side, enjoying total off-grid serenity under the stars.

We then spend a night at the well-equipped Bushwacked campsite in Vioolsdrift before crossing over into the rugged Richtersveld. Here we camp at Tierhoek and Bakkranse in the Richtersveld National Park, surrounded by dramatic mountains and ancient desert landscapes.Our final stretch takes us to Port Nolloth for lunch and our tour ends at the Okiep Country Hotel.

A perfect finish to a raw and unforgettable wilderness journey.

Highlights
  • Remote wilderness camping under star-filled skies
  • 4×4 adventures through rugged mountain passes
  • Unique desert flora, including rare succulents
  • Evenings around the campfire with fellow explorers
  • Breathtaking views of the Orange River
  • Scenic photographic stops in dramatic landscapes
  • Insightful local knowledge from experienced guides
  • Free Roaming WiFi
What You Should Bring
  • Light Clothing
  • Sun Hat
  • Sun Block
  • Warm Jacket
  • Own Meals & Drinking Water
  • Own 4×4 – We can Assist with 4×4 Hire
  • Enough Fuel for 500km Stretch
  • 4×4 Camper or Roof Top Tent
  • All Camping Equipment
  • Water for cleaning etc
  • Tyre Guage & Pump
  • Recovery Gear
  • Braai Wood
  • Puncture Repair Kit
Times

Departure Times: 9am
Dropoff Time: 4pm

Includes
  • Qualified Guide
  • Guide Vehicle
  • Tour Dossier
  • Park Fees
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Shared Camp Toilet Tent
  • Camping Fees
  • Two Way Radios
  • Free Roaming WiFi (Temporarily unavailable)
  • Promotional Gift
  • First Night Dinner Meal @ Klein Pella
  • Farewell Seafood Lunch in Port Nolloth
02.Making Memories

Tour Gallery

03.What We Have Planned

Tour Itenary

DAY 1

Klein Pella to Hartbeesmond 

DAY 2

Hartbeesmond to Groot Melkhoutboom

DAY 3

Groot Melkhoutboom to Khamgab

DAY 4

Khamgab to Bushwacked

DAY 5

Vioolsdrif to Tierhoek

DAY 6

Tierhoek to Bakkranse

DAY 7

Bakkranse to Okiep Country Hotel via Port Nolloth

DAY 1

Klein Pella to Hartbeesmond

Our 7-day Orange River Eco Trail kicks off at 8:00 AM from the Klein Pella Camp Site where we gather for a quick meet and greet and tour briefing before setting off at 9am in our self-drive 4x4s. (Please arrange your own accommodation for the night before at Klein Pella)

From here, we travel east to Pella, a small but vibrant Nama community. We’ll take time to visit the historic Pella Roman Catholic Church, an architectural gem that stands in striking contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. Then we traverse Charles Pass and make our way back west along the Orange River towards our first nights stop-over at Hartbeesmond River Camp.

DAY 2

Hartbeesmond to Groot Melkhoutboom

After a hearty breakfast at Hartbeesmond, we pack up camp and set off once more, spirits high as we journey further west along the rugged trails of the Namaqua Eco Route. The route leads us through striking desert scenery, with vast open plains and rocky outcrops defining the landscape. Along the way, we pass through the small community of Witbank, where travelers often stop to enjoy a cool drink or a chat with the locals. By late afternoon, we reach Die Groot Melkhoutboom Camp on the banks of the Orange River, our peaceful haven for another night under the stars.

DAY 3

Melkhoutboom to Khamgab

Over the course of the first three days, we’ll cover approximately 300 km as we travel through the Namaqua side of the Eco Trail. Today, we continue our westward journey toward Khamgab River Camp. This stretch of the trail follows the dry Khamgab riverbed as it winds its way down to the Orange River.

It’s slow going—true 4×4 territory—as we carefully make our way over boulders and through sandy channels, taking in the raw, untouched beauty of the landscape.

DAY 4

Khamgab to Bushwacked

After breakfast, we pack up and continue our westward journey until we reach the N7, following it north toward Vioolsdrift. For those low on fuel, you are welcome to head south along the N7 to Steinkopf to fill your tank and then meet us back at the Bushwhacked Camp. The drive offers wide-open desert views and glimpses of the Orange River as it winds through the valley. By late afternoon, we arrive at the beautifully located Bushwhacked Camp, set right on the riverbank. Here we settle in for the night, enjoying a relaxed evening beside the water at their River Bar and enjoy a delisious dinner. Dinner is included.

DAY 5

Vioolsdrif to Tierhoek

After breakfast, we set off toward Eksteensfontein, following a route that winds through the rugged and dramatic terrain of Hell’s Pass. The trail offers striking views of rocky cliffs and vast desert valleys, capturing the raw beauty of the Richtersveld. Upon reaching the small settlement of Eksteensfontein, we take a short break to explore and enjoy the warm hospitality of this remote community. From there, we continue our journey deeper into the mountains until we reach Tierhoek, our campsite for the night. Here we set up camp, surrounded by the breathtaking silence and stark beauty of the Richtersveld wilderness.

DAY 6

Tierhoek to Bakkranse

After breakfast, we leave Tierhoek behind and begin our inland journey toward Bakkranse, a truly remarkable camping spot nestled deep within the mountains. The drive takes us through rugged terrain and winding trails, offering stunning views of rocky ridges and open desert plains. By afternoon, we arrive at Bakkranse, a natural cave-like setting that provides both shelter and atmosphere. We set up camp at the cave entrance, where the golden light of sunset filters across the rocks. As night falls, we gather around a crackling campfire, sharing stories, laughter, and a final evening surrounded by the beauty of the wild.

DAY 7

Bakkranse  to Okiep Country Hotel via Port Nolloth

After breakfast, we begin our final day, travelling south through the small settlement of Lekkersing before reaching the coastal town of Port Nolloth. Here we enjoy a fantastic seafood lunch right on the edge of the ocean, the perfect way to celebrate the end of our journey. After lunch, we head inland to the iconic Okiep Country Hotel, where our tour concludes. For those travelling onward, thank you for the opportunity to share our beautiful backyard—until we meet again. Guests wishing to stay another night in Namaqualand can book directly with the hotel, or we can assist with accommodation in Springbok. Please note, there are no camping facilities at the Okiep Country Hotel. Port Nolloth lunch is included.

08.VALUABLE FEEDBACK

Our Clients Testimonials

What a wonderful blessing!

From soaking in the Riemvasmaak hot springs and witnessing the mighty Augrabies Falls, to wine tasting in Kakamas, and finally exploring the vast Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park — what a wonderful blessing it’s been to experience this wonderful 4x4 expedition with my wife! ❤️ It was my first 4x4 adventure, and Alan was an absolutely great tour guide! 👍🏼 🚙 🍷🥂🍾🌹🙏🏼

Gilbert Wesso

October 2025

Another bucket list item, ticked!

Beautiful part of our world.
Another bucket list item, ticked.

Andre Vogel

June 2025

What an amazing experience!

What an amazing experience Heilet and I have had.

Henk Basson

October 2025

You will definitely be seeing us again!

What an unforgettable tour and amazing experience!! Thank you Alan and Piet, we really enjoyed our trip to Richtersveld. Piet, you were an amazing host! Your knowledge of the Richtersveld is amazing and made the whole trip very interesting and an experience we will never forget! You will definitely be seeing us again. All the best to you guys. Thanks again for an amazing tour.

Carl Bodenstein

July 2025

Great value for money!!

A superb experience for me as a novice 4x4er and a fun trip overall. Great value for money!

Sergio De Castro

August 2025

We are sorry we did not do this years ago!

For my wife and I, this was a real wish list trip, but one we were unsure that in our early 70s, it was was wise on which to blast off? However,:with a Guide like Alan,.who never saw anything unforeseen as a material obstacle, and was a font of knowledge on the Western Cape and Namibian regions less travelled, it was a great experience. Add a group of other folk, all in same boat, i.e. learning how not to get one's 4x4 stuck, and enjoying a range of hospitalities, we are sorry we did not do this years ago. But, as they say, never too late...... Just do it!

Robert Lloyd

August 2025

The people we met really enriched our lives!

We had the most fantastic week with Why Not Africa doing the 4x4 West Coast Daisy trip. On every level it was such a memorable holiday. The people we met really enriched our lives, and Alan and his team worked with great care and detail to make sure all went smoothly. Alans knowledge of the area, where to go, and network of people he knows gave us a rich experience. We've told all our friends and aim to do more through Why Not Africa!

Colleen Trotter

August 2025

The tour was well planned and organized!

Thank you Alan and Tyler for a wonderful West Coast and Namaqualand tour! We had wonderful and comfortable accommodation, hearty and delicious meals and shared many memorable moments. The tour was well planned and organized and the places we visited were interesting and nature provided everything we could wish for. We will definitely see you again on one of the other tours you offer!

Anja Smant

August 2025

Highly recommended for anyone wanting a true Kalahari experience!

What an unforgettable Kalahari 4x4 adventure! The scenery was breathtaking, the wildlife incredible, and our guide, Piet van Heerde, was outstanding. His knowledge, passion, and general skills made the trip safe, exciting, and full of amazing moments. Highly recommended for anyone wanting a true Kalahari experience!

Luzette Van Greunen Kruger

September 2025

From start to finish, the tour was exceptionally well organised!

West Coast Flower Tour – 31 August

Wendy and I recently joined the 31st of August West Coast Flower Tour, and it truly was one of the most outstanding travel experiences of our lives. We were 20 people travelling in 10 vehicles, moving lodge to lodge under the expert leadership of our tour guide, Alan.

From start to finish, the tour was exceptionally well organised. Alan’s professionalism, his deep knowledge of the flowers, the country, and the four-wheel drive vehicles in sandy conditions made every part of the journey effortless and enjoyable. His choice of lodges and the standard of the food throughout the tour were simply excellent.

The highlight for us was the breathtaking coastal journey from Pater Noster all the way up the West Coast to Hondeklip Bay—270 kilometres of untouched coastline adorned with astonishingly beautiful flowers. From there we ventured inland, exploring vast reserves and flower fields that we would never have reached on our own.

Just as memorable as the scenery were the people we travelled with. What began as a group of fellow travellers quickly became a group of friends, and the camaraderie added so much to the experience.

We cannot recommend this tour highly enough. It exceeded every expectation. Wendy and I loved it so much that we are already dreaming of returning to the West Coast with more time on our side.

To Alan—thank you for creating an unforgettable journey. Your professionalism, knowledge, and care made this tour truly special, and we will treasure the memories and friendships for years to come.

Lawrence Hoatson

September 2025

Would definitely recommend this tour!

We had a wonderful experience with WhynotAfrica tours. Allan was a responsible and attentive guide, and we saw places we never even heard of!
The flowes, food, accommodation and 4x4 excursions were outstanding...and our fellow travelers the best companions too. Would definitely recommend this tour!

Tertia Vos

September 2025

We never felt rushed and had plenty of time to take photos and simply soak in the scenery.!

We had the most incredible experience joining the Namaqualand flower tour. Every detail was well thought out, from the comfortable accommodation to the knowledgeable guide who knew exactly where to find the best blooms. The landscapes were breathtaking — endless carpets of wildflowers.

Our guide, Alan Williams added so much depth to the trip by explaining the different plant species, local history, and how the delicate ecosystem is preserved. We never felt rushed and had plenty of time to take photos and simply soak in the scenery. The itinerary balanced sightseeing with his extensive knowledge on 4x4 driving.

We would highly recommend this tour to anyone during flower season. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left us with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Namaqualand.

Looking forward to booking my next tour with Why Not Africa. 🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼

Anira Pancha

September 2025

I can Highly Recommend the 5day Kalahari discovery tour. !

Hi. I’ve just returned from an amazing 5day lodge tour with Piet as our guide. The accommodations and meals were excellent. We met wonderful people and Piet went the extra mile to ensure everyone was well looked after. His knowledge of the area and General knowledge of nature and animals was amazing. We drove dunes and saw a part of our wonderful country that I have never experienced. I can Highly Recommend the 5day Kalahari discovery tour. I will be back for more…

Paul

September 2025

Don’t wait! Book now for next years Flower Trip!

Don’t wait! Book now for next years Flower Trip (or any other one that Alan offers sooner) if you want someone who knows his stuff
A bonus was meeting wonderful people who will become long term friends
We felt so comfortable having someone knowledgeable and experienced making all the arrangements…including stops, spectacular meals and even a wine tasting; and very comfy (to even luxurious) overnight accommodation
Plus guiding on navigating and driving a tricky 4x4 route and even helping others who’d got stuck in our path
Definitely checking his pages for the next trip

Jonathan Brookman

September 2025

Highly Recommended!

We just completed this tour and I can highly recommend it!!! Great accommodation and food!! Lots of activities to really show you the beauty and diversity of the Kalahari!! Met some great people along the way - we all had a blast.

Lani Lourens

June 2025

Would definitely like to do another tour with. this company in the future!

Just completed an epic 7 day 4 X 4 flower tour to the Western Cape with Why Not Africa Tours. Visited so many previously unknown little towns and interesting off the beaten track places.A real revelation for those of us who thought we knew the vast West Coast. Met wonderful like minded people on the tour and the food / accommodation generally exceeded expectations. Alan Williams is a qualified and competent guide who interacts well with his tour group and the locals. Would definitely like to do another tour with. this company in the future 👍

Gavin Simpson

August 2025

Well planned and executed!

Excellent 7 day West Cost Flower 4x4 Tour. Well planned and executed. Our first tour in SA, and 1st 4x4 at that and so worth it. Well done to Alan and Tyler. Will definitely do more tours with them. Experience not to be missed. I would not have found all the hidden gems that Alan introduced us to.

Priscilla Nadasan

August 2025

Flowers were amazing!

Alan was an amazing guide whose knowledge of the area and the plants made this an amazing experience. Flowers were amazing.

Jaco Botes

July 2025

The overall experience was fantastic!

The route and terrain covered during this tour were absolutely perfect for my first off-road adventure in my Mahindra Thar! The carefully planned itinerary allowed me to put my vehicle through its paces, tackling a variety of challenging terrain that tested its capabilities while showcasing its strengths. From rocky inclines to sandy dunes, every obstacle was a thrilling opportunity to push my driving skills and explore the vehicle's limits. The tour's route was expertly curated to provide a mix of excitement and scenic beauty, making for an unforgettable experience that left me eager for more.

*Scenic Views*
One of the highlights of the tour was undoubtedly the breathtaking scenic views and unique landscapes that unfolded before my eyes. Driving through the Orange river 4x4 tour was a truly unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into a hidden side of South African beauty that I'd never encountered before. The rugged, otherworldly landscape stretched out as far as the eye could see, with towering mountains, vast expanses of desert, and dramatic rock formations creating a visual feast that was simply stunning. Being able to drive through this incredible terrain in my Mahindra Thar added to the excitement, allowing me to soak up the scenery at my own pace and truly appreciate the natural beauty of this remarkable region.
The guided aspect of the tour was top-notch, thanks to our exceptional guide, Allan. He went above and beyond to ensure we were all comfortable with the terrain, providing expert guidance and valuable tips on navigating the challenging routes. But what truly set Allan apart was his vast knowledge of the area, which extended far beyond just the driving routes. He shared fascinating insights into the local fauna and flora, as well as the rich history and cultural significance of the region. His passion for the area was infectious, and his ability to share his expertise in a way that was engaging and accessible made the entire experience even more enjoyable. Allan's guidance added a whole new layer of depth to the tour, and I feel fortunate to have had him leading the way.
Allan from Why Not Africa Tours was an exceptional guide who truly made our off-road adventure unforgettable. His expertise in off-road driving and knowledge of the local terrain were evident throughout the tour, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand or offer valuable advice when needed. What struck me most about Allan was his warm and approachable nature - he created a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that made everyone feel like part of the group. The evening campfires were a highlight, with great chats and stories that added a wonderful social dimension to the tour. Allan's calm and collective demeanor was reassuring, especially when navigating challenging terrain, and his willingness to assist everyone where needed was greatly appreciated. Overall, Allan's guidance and support were instrumental in making this tour an unforgettable experience.
The overall experience was fantastic, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking for an exciting off-road adventure. The level of challenge was just right for an entry-level experience - it was engaging and tested my skills, but I felt comfortable throughout, thanks to Allan's expert guidance and support. There were a few minor exceptions where I needed a bit of extra help, but that's exactly what Allan was there for.
The fun factor was off the charts - this tour was an absolute blast! It was the perfect antidote to everyday troubles, allowing me to unwind and relax in a truly unique and exhilarating environment. By the end of the tour, I was already planning my next adventure!
As for value for money, I'd say this tour was absolutely worth every penny. The combination of expert guidance, stunning scenery, and thrilling off-road experiences made for an unforgettable experience that I'd recommend to anyone without hesitation. If you're on the fence about whether to do this tour or not, my advice is simple: just do it! You won't regret it."

Nico Theunissen

July 2025

Highly Recommended!

We just completed this tour and I can highly recommend it!!! Great accommodation and food!! Lots of activities to really show you the beauty and diversity of the Kalahari!! Met some great people along the way - we all had a blast.

Lani Lourens

June 2025

Wat n fantastiese toer!

Wat n fantastiese toer....value for money.....great food.....ek het plekke gesien wat ek nog nooit en ook nie op my eie sou gesien het nie.Well done Allen and Piet.Highly recommended.Until next time.

Willem Reineke

May 2025