Tankwa Camino – A Pilgrimage Through the Desert of the Soul

Tankwa Camino offers one of South Africa’s most unique endurance walks—a 10-day, 232km desert pilgrimage through the hauntingly beautiful Tankwa Karoo. Inspired by the spirit of the Great Trek, this modern Camino challenges the body and nourishes the soul, guiding walkers across vast, sun-scorched plains and into profound personal reflection.

Each day, you’ll hike approximately 27km along South Africa’s longest uninterrupted gravel road, traversing the invisible border between the Northern and Western Cape. The route is raw and remote, framed by ancient mountain silhouettes, vast sky, and a silence so pure it echoes. This isn’t just a hike—it’s a rite of passage through some of the most arresting landscapes in the country.

As the sun drops below the horizon, the desert transforms into a canvas of deep reds and purples, rewarding your effort with breathtaking beauty. On some days, with a touch of rain, the land erupts into wildflower bloom—an unexpected miracle in such a rugged place.

Supported by a team focused on safety, logistics, and traditional Karoo hospitality, the Tankwa Camino is ideal for those ready to step beyond the ordinary and into a test of endurance, presence, and spiritual clarity.

For walkers seeking something deeper than a scenic trail, this is the journey that changes everything.