Damaraland Camp - Namibia
Damaraland Camp is a rare venture which integrates the local villagers, the environment and sustainable wildlife. Located on the north face of the Haub River valley 90 kilometers from Torra Bay on Namib's Skeleton Coast, the camp presents endless vistas across stark plains, ancient valleys, and soaring peaks. The brooding mass of the Brandberg provides a focal point, almost 100 kilometers to the south. Early morning mists, generated by the icy Atlantic and the warm land mass along the Skeleton Coast drift inland along the river line, providing sustenance to varied life forms. The river flows only once or twice during the short rainy season, seldom breaking through the dunes to the ocean. Wildlife is not concentrated, and the natural laws of food and water availability dictate the movement and cycles of the elephant, black rhinoceros, oryx, kudu, springbok and other species that have come to terms with life in a desert environment.
The Damaraland Experience
Activities centre around drives, nature walks and visits to the famous Twyfelfontein engravings. The opportunity to sight our desert elephant depends on their movements - which range over huge distances. All large game sightings are considered a bonus. Our guides will, however, bring this arid desert to life, illustrating the compromises made by all life forms, from the prehistoric Welwitschia to the tiniest spider, in the constant struggle to survive. Stargazing is "par excellence", with crystal-clear night skies.
Accommodation
Eight large, comfortable walk-in tents under shade face the valley view - each with en-suite facilities and roomy verandas. The main living area combines dining and pub under shade, and an open fire is enjoyed during calm evenings. A small curio shop displays local handicrafts.
Working with the community
This camp is the result of more than two years' work with the "Riemvasmaker" people of the area, and our joint philosophy now provides the blueprint for future community tourism projects in Namibia. With the assistance and support of the Integrated Rural Development & Nature Conservation (IRDNC), the World Wildlife Fund and other concerned organisations, we believe we have put in place the seeds of a truly sustainable asset. Provided with income, training, and pride of ownership the community, through the camp, are realising the value of their wildlife assets. They are actively involved in the protection and management of wildlife and the land we are privileged to share with them.
Damaraland Camp at a glance
Situated on the Haub River in Central Damaraland, midway between Khorixas and Torra Bay.
Eight large, en-suite tents under shade. (16 bed maximum occupancy).
Activities include nature walks, drives in 4x4 vehicles and some of Africa's best rock etchings.
Airfield is under construction, approximatety 14 km from the camp.
Access for normal vehicles by road is to a parking point, within 3 km of the camp. From there we drive guests into the camp in 4x4 vehicles. Air charter to De Riet air strip.
