Luxury Damaraland
Safaris made for you
Embark on a desert safari
to spot elephants, springbok and black rhinos
Explore the mountain valley
and admire ancient rock art
Head out on games drives
to track the endangered rhinos
Mountains, ancient art, and wildlife in Damaraland
One of the most scenic parts of Namibia, Damaraland encompasses the expanses of rugged wilderness in the northwest of the country, between the Skeleton Coast, Kaokoland and Etosha, engulfed by the towering presence of the Brandberg Massif (Namibia’s highest mountain) and the Spitzkoppe mountain.
This sparsely populated region is home to wandering herds of desert–adapted elephants and black rhinos. Venture across the plains to marvel at the surreal rock formations decorated with ancient bushman rock art, or explore the enormous fossilised tree trunks that make up the petrified forest.
There are some truly spectacular safari lodges scattered across the region. Stay in an elevated Meru–style canvas tent at Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp, where you can partake in daily rhino tracking on foot with a ‘Save the Rhinos’ tracker.
The remote location of the camps here will also enable you to see wildlife including lions, cheetahs and giraffes on a Damaraland safari. Embark on a guided walking safari for an intimate, positive–impact encounter that promises a thrilling connection with the surrounding nature.
By night, the remoteness of Damaraland lends itself perfectly to spellbinding stargazing. Gaze up at the clear desert sky from the comfort of your luxury lodge after days spent immersing yourself in the beauty of your surroundings.
Highlights
Visit the ancient Twyfelfontein rock engravings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Spot desert elephants between May and October
Track desert-adapted black rhino on foot as part of their ongoing conservation
Take to the skies on a balloon safari
Meet the ancient indigenous tribe of Himba and learn about their traditional lifestyle
Damaraland is such a unique part of Namibia. With its herds of elephants and game drives to spot black rhinos, it's a wildlife lover's dream. I recommend a stay with Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp, as the panoramic views of the dramatic Etendeka Mountains from the tents are truly unparalleled.
Jody van Merode
Senior Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Damaraland
Why choose Jacada for your luxury safari experience?
Safari expertise
Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.
Unforgettable guides
We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.
Positive impact
By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.
Trip inspiration
Where to go
Etosha National Park
Known as the 'Place of Mirages', Etosha National Park's incredible landscapes range from vast savannahs to silver salt pans. Keep an eye out for herds of blue wildebeest and desert elephants.
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Kaokoland
This is one of Namibia’s most remote and inaccessible areas. In Kaokoland, you can meet the Himba and learn about their traditional lifestyle on a cultural safari. In the region, you can also spot desert elephants, giraffes and black rhinos.
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Kunene River
Flowing from Angola into Namibia, the Kunene River is the only perennial water source in the entire region. From here, embark on nature drives and boating excursions in search of Nile crocodiles. You can also venture further and explore remote mountains, river valleys and waterfalls.
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Okonjima Nature Reserve
Enjoy unrivalled game viewing experiences at Okonjima Nature Reserve. It is arguably one of the best places to spot predators in Namibia. Head out on exhilarating game drives and nature trails to track Big Cats that have been rehabilitated by the AfriCat foundation.
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Sossusvlei
With some of the most surreal landscapes on the planet, Sossusvlei is known for its rust-coloured ridges of sand and mosaics of cracked clay soil. It is located in the Namib-Naukluft National Park and is one of the oldest and driest ecosystems on the planet. Visit during the months of October to April to see the desert transform with bright desert flowers blanketing the dunes.
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Swakopmund and Walvis Bay
These two towns are located between the Namib Desert and Skeleton Coast and are the ideal base to explore the natural wonders of the region. Adventure sports are some of the best things to do in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Skydiving, dune boarding, quad biking and scenic balloon flights are some of the many incredible experiences waiting for you.
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The NamibRand Reserve
As one of the largest private reserves in Southern Africa, the NamibRand Reserve aims to help protect and conserve the unique ecology and wildlife of the south-west Namib Desert. Its vast vistas make for some incredible sunset views. The NamibRand Reserve also lies in one of the darkest regions on earth, making it one of the best places to go stargazing.
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The Skeleton Coast
The Skeleton Coast offers varied landscapes of lengthy beaches, towering sand dunes, secret rivers and mesmerising canyons. Board a flying safari to spot on the skeletal remains of vessels and large concentrations of seal colonies.
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Windhoek
Namibia’s vibrant capital city, Windhoek is an interesting gateway to the rest of the country. The city is dotted with fascinating buildings that look like they belong in northern Europe. This is due to a legacy of German colonialism. Take a walking city tour to learn more about its dynamic history and rich culture.
Discover moreMeet your Africa team
When to visit
The best time to visit Damaraland and see wildlife is from July to November, as that is the dry season and when animals gather around the waterholes.
Safaris
From July to November
Hot air balloon rides
From July to September
Stargazing
From July to August
Rhino tracking
From July to September
Plan your trip to Damaraland
Whatever you want from your adventure in Damaraland, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
Plan with peace of mind
When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.
If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.
