Day 1 - Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay, Namibia: Once a whaling station, Walvis Bay provides a gateway to the extraordinary desert landscapes of Namibia and is an area of remarkable natural beauty. The highlight of the Walvis Bay area is the natural lagoon where you can spot flamingos in their thousands at certain times of the year, along with various other wading birds such as the white pelican. Further inland lies the stunning Namib Desert, an unlikely home for a diverse array of wildlife. Alternatively, venture into the desert of Sossusvlei, where the mountainous ochre sand dunes are said to be the highest in the world, or visit the colonial town of Swakopmund.

Day 2 - Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay, Namibia: Once a whaling station, Walvis Bay serves as a portal to the extraordinary desert vistas of Namibia and is an area of remarkable natural beauty. The area's showpiece is the natural lagoon, where at certain times of the year, you can witness thousands of flamingos, accompanied by a variety of other wading birds like the white pelican. Journeying inland, you can admire the stunning Namib Desert, a surprising ecosystem filled with diverse wildlife. Alternatively, explore the desert of Sossusvlei, boasting some of the world's tallest ochre sand dunes, or visit the historic colonial town of Swakopmund.

Day 3 - Lüderitz

Lüderitz, Namibia: The reopening of the diamond mine at Elizabeth Bay 20 years ago has reignited tourism and fishing in this quaint 19th-century village on the windswept Namib Desert coast. One of Namibia's peculiarities, it offers the charm of a small German town, complete with delicatessens, coffee shops, and a Lutheran church. The icy but pristine South Atlantic waters are home to seals, penguins, and other marine life, while the desolate beaches harbour flocks of flamingoes. Established in 1883 when Heinrich Vogelsang purchased Angra Pequena for Adolf Lüderitz from the local Nama chief, Lüderitz began as a trading post in fishing and guano-harvesting. In 1996, the town celebrated its first traditional German Karneval since 1960, symbolising its revival.

Day 5 - Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa: Often termed the Mother City, Cape Town is South Africa's most renowned port, shaped by a fusion of cultures, including Dutch, British, and Malay. Founded in 1652 by Dutch explorer Jan Van Riebeeck, the port retains traces of Dutch colonial rule. Situated on a key maritime trade route, it primarily functions as a container port and exporter of fresh fruit. Fishing is another crucial industry, with Asian fleets utilising Cape Town for logistical support throughout the year. Known for its breathtaking natural scenery, the area features landmarks like Table Mountain and Lions Head, alongside numerous nature reserves and botanical gardens such as Kirstenbosch, which hosts a rich variety of indigenous plant life. Cape Town's unpredictable weather can swiftly shift from sunny skies to dramatic thunderstorms, encapsulated by the local saying that the city experiences four seasons in a single day.

Day 6 - Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa: Referred to as the Mother City, Cape Town stands as one of South Africa's most illustrious ports, influenced by a mix of Dutch, British, and Malay cultures. Established in 1652 by Dutch explorer Jan Van Riebeeck, the port area displays vestiges of Dutch colonial heritage. As a crucial node along one of the world's principal trade routes, the port's operations predominantly focus on container shipping and fresh fruit export. Fishing remains a pivotal sector, with substantial Asian fleets docking for repairs. Cape Town boasts awe-inspiring natural wonders, including Table Mountain and Lions Head, coupled with diverse botanical gardens like Kirstenbosch, rich with native flora. The region's capricious climate might unfurl across four seasons within a day, as locals fondly say.

Day 7 - Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa: Known affectionately as the Mother City, Cape Town is the most renowned port in South Africa, drawing its unique character from a blend of Dutch, British, and Malay cultures. Founded by Dutch explorer Jan Van Riebeeck in 1652, Cape Town retains architectural evidence of its colonial past. Key to global trade, the port plays a vital role in both shipping and fresh fruit logistics. Fishing constitutes an economic mainstay with Cape Town serving as a repair base for numerous Asian fleets. Attractions include the majestic Table Mountain and Lions Head, alongside Kirstenbosch botanical gardens that house expansive collections of indigenous species. The shifting weather patterns here encapsulate a local saying—you can experience four seasons in Cape Town within a day.

Day 8 - Gqeberha

Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), South Africa: Once home to the San and Khoisan peoples, and later the Xhosa tribe, Gqeberha gained prominence when Portuguese navigator Bartolomew Dias reached Algoa Bay in 1488. The British occupied the area during the Napoleonic Wars and were instrumental in establishing Fort Frederick in 1799. In 1820, 4,000 British settlers arrived, establishing a steadfast community. Named by Sir Rufane Donkin in honour of his late wife, Port Elizabeth grew rapidly post-1873 with the Kimberley railway construction, evolving into a significant seaport. Bordered by substantial coastlines, the region boasts miles of beautiful beaches. Algoa Bay is famous for its warm waters and breezy conditions, perfect for swimming and water sports. Explore history along the Donkin Heritage Trail, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, manicured gardens, and neo-Gothic churches. Nearby game reserves include the renowned Addo Elephant National Park.

Day 9 - London (Greenwich)

London (Greenwich), England: Situated approximately 8 miles downstream from central London, Greenwich is a borough of global significance. Historically the epicentre of British naval prowess, it houses the Old Royal Observatory, which defines Greenwich Mean Time and features the Greenwich Meridian Line, where visitors can stand in two hemispheres simultaneously. Travelling to Greenwich is a worthy undertaking; many choose to arrive via a river cruise along the Thames, gliding past the iconic London skyline and evolving docklands. Greenwich exudes the charm of a seaside town, boasting an abundance of historic attractions. The grand Old Royal Naval Hospital, designed by Christopher Wren, attracts visitors with its architectural magnificence and its status as a widely favoured film set. A visit to Greenwich includes the restored tea clipper Cutty Sark, the sprawling National Maritime Museum, and picturesque Greenwich Park, home to historic red deer herds. Adventurers may ascend the Millennium Dome's O2, while art lovers enjoy the Queen's House and Eltham Palace's art deco splendour.

Day 11 - Durban

Durban, South Africa: Durban, a sparkling jewel on Africa's south-east coastline, stands as the third-largest city in South Africa and the main city of KwaZulu-Natal. Historically a sea trade centre pre-dating colonial settlement, Durban now flourishes as an artistic hub alongside its vibrant markets and rich cultural tapestry. Shaped like a natural half-moon harbour lined with white sand and azure waters, Durban's port is marked by its many piers extending into the ocean. The Golden Mile's beaches attract visitors throughout the year, with their warm climate and inviting waters, amidst the captivating contrast of Durban’s hot summers and mild winters.