Namakwa
September 2020
While lockdown had us housebound, we delved into the maps to plot an escape for the moment restrictions eased and regional borders opened. We headed north out of Cape Town, following the coastline until we hit the Orange River that marks the border with Namibia. From here we made our way east through the mountains of the Richtersveld and along the Namakwa Eco Trail before turning south back home.
Eight great days of riding and exploring with Scotty, Si and Bernard.
We followed the sandy trails that run along the rugged west coast all the way north.
The sun sets and we call it a day, setting up camp on the beach.
Passing through Namaqua National Park.
Endless trails and ocean.
Hondeklipbaai.
We left the coast and ventured inland towards the Richtersveld.
Scotty.
After a few nights camping by the crashing ocean, it was good to finally enjoy the stillness of the desert.
After some long open roads, we found an old route that was to take us over the mountains of the Richtersveld.
Si lending some extra horse power to Scotty and his DR350 as we battled with the loose rocks on the steep climbs.
Each summit a small win and a chance to regroup before tackling the unknown ahead.
The previous evening we looked at the map and saw how little progress we had made. With time not on our side, we sadly made the call to turn back and find another way round the mountains. We still had far to go!
We passed back through Kuboes and stopped for that cold drink we'd all been dreaming about for so long.
With little signs of water out here, we didn't miss a chance for a quick wash and cool down in this sheep's trough.
After our failed detour we connected with the Namkwa eco trail taking us east along the Namibian border.
Finding the Orange river round every corner made for some great camp and lunch spots in this semi-desert region.
Si.
Another night on the glorious Orange river.
Sunrise on our final day on the trail before starting our long journey home to Cape Town.
After eight days of being chased by the sun, we were finally hit by a storm. We took cover in the small town of Loeriesfontein. The few hotels were full with railroad construction workers. After a couple of phone calls, Si managed to wrangle us each a room. A much needed night in a bed after one too many nights on a punctured roll mat.
For more photos and words see Si’s story from the trip.
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