Damaraland Camp

Lodges in Damaraland - Namibia

Damaraland Camp is situated in the Huab River Valley, in one of the most pristine wilderness areas in Namibia. Reputed to be one of the country's best camps, it is also owned, and now largely run by the local community. Their visitors often return, commenting on just how positive and cheerful the atmosphere there is. The camp offers sensational views over the surrounding plains, valleys and of the Brandberg Mountain.

A 4x4 vehicle is required to reach Damaraland Camp. Drivers of 2x4 vehicles must wait at the Fonteine Post pick-up point at 2pm or 5pm, to be taken to the camp. Any other arrival time must be pre-arranged.

Many residents of Damaraland are of mixed heritage, including Herero and the displaced Riemvasmakers of South Africa. The Damara name is derived from the Nama word 'Dama', meaning 'who walked here'. This is because the Damara were known to the Nama people, by the footprints they left around water holes.

Damaraland Camp attempts to integrate the community, environment and wildlife on a sustainable basis. It has swept the board with an impressive collection of honours, including the 2005 WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Conservation Award.

The restaurant and bar, complete with fireplace can be found in the main tent/thatched area. Braai type evening meals are served in an open area, close to the camp, lit by a large number of small lanterns. The swimming pool is conveniently sited next to the bar, and the campfire and outdoor 'boma' sites, are ideal spots to exchange safari and travel stories with other guests.

There are 10 raised, adobe-styled, thatched units. They have all been recently re-furbished and each tent has an en-suite shower, toilet and a fan. Mosquito repellent is provided. There is a walk-in dressing area, and a large deck with great views of the immediate environment.

Activities include guided nature drives and walks and mountain biking, revolving around morning and afternoon scenic tours into the Haub river system. The drives to search for desert-adapted elephant are a great favourite and gemsbok, greater kudu, springbok, and occasionally lion, cheetah and black rhino can be spotted.

Interesting flora such as euphorbias and shepherd's trees, can be pointed out on the way. Trips to some of Africa's best known rock engravings, including the famous Twyfelfontein etchings, can be organized from Damaraland Camp.

Sundowner drives to a scenic look out point, are also popular.

View more pictures:

Nature drives: search for the desert adapted Elephant & Rhino and explore the other fauna and flora of the area in 7 seater open Land Rovers
Sundowner drives: enjoy your G&T from a scenic look out point
Guided nature walks
Mountain bikes: Head out and explore the are on a mountain bike
Rock Engravings: Day excursions to the world famous Twyfelfontein rock art, a newly proclaimed World Heritage Site

Directions:

The turning for Damaraland Camp is on the C39. From Windhoek take the C39 from Outjo, go through Khorixas and the turning is about 100km further on your left. From the C34 coast road, join the C39 south of Torra Bay and head inland about 110km, (about 18km after the C43 turning), the turning is on your right.

Map of Damaraland Camp

Etendeka

This remote lodge is an absolute must. Nearly everyone who knows Namibia rates this as one of it's finest destinations

Grootberg Lodge

A lodge owned by the local community, Grootberg has stunning views and interesting activities

Hobatere Lodge

On the extreme western edge of Etosha (although self drive visitors can not enter the park from here) this lodge is a popular stop between Kaokoland and Damaraland

Huab Lodge

A small private lodge, with attentive management. Activities centre on the Huab river which attract a variety of game including the elusive desert adapted elephant