Damaraland camp

As Damaraland Camp is situated in the Huab River Valley, tracking desert-adapted elephant & rhino rate highly on most of their guests wish list. In addition to this very worthwhile pursuit, the camp has proved to be a model of how community-based tourism can flourish. Over the years they have integrated the local community to care for the environment and wildlife on a sustainable basis.

Many visitors comment on the bubbly atmosphere that the friendly and happy staff create who constantly go out of their way to make your stay memorable and enjoyable. In return Damaraland Camp have swept the board with an impressive collection of honours, including a WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Conservation Award.

The camp offers sensational views over the surrounding plains, valleys and of the Brandberg Mountain. Subsequently 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.

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.