Rothwell Rose

There are ten spacious chalets, each with a split-level bedroom, large en-suite bathroom and private patio. One of the chalets is set further away from the others, perfect for anyone looking for a bit more privacy, and another is a two-bedroom unit, ideal for families. The chalets are set on raised decks with gravel pathways on the ground linking them to the main area. Each chalet is valley-facing with wonderful views of the mountain from a private, shaded veranda. The entire room and bathroom is mosquito proof and has wooden frames and doors with mesh insets. There is no air-conditioning, however, a ceiling fan is provided in each chalet.

The main part of the camp includes a huge open-plan lounge and dining area, although dinners are sometimes served in the outdoor ‘boma’ as well. The lounge contains a large fireplace and lots of comfortable sofas, a bar, library and a curio shop. There is also a seating area around the open campfire, perfect for those evening drinks, and a swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers.

Activities are focussed on the wildlife at Damaraland Camp, in particular the desert adapted elephants, and the local culture. There are several guided nature walks, game drives, and half-day excursions to see the ancient rock art at the Twyfelfontein World Heritage Site.

Damaraland Camp is the product of a community partnership between Wilderness Safaris and the people of the local Torra Conservancy. It’s been a huge success and is used as an example by other camps all over Africa. Most of the staff are from the local community and are hugely passionate about the camp. As a result there is a great atmosphere and combined with their incredible and ever-changing scenery around the camp, it makes for a very special destination.

Situated in the Torra Conservancy of the Huab River Valley, Damaraland Camp is surrounded by low hills and is a fantastic spot from which to explore the surrounding area. The camp is a community partnership and blends new technology with ancient construction to make a completely eco-friendly luxury camp in the desert. The camp is set in a secluded area and benefits from fantastic views of the surrounding desert plains, ancient valleys and the peaks of the Branberg Mountain range beyond.

The 352,200 hectare Torra Conservancy has a landscape characterised by hills interspersed with valleys and dry riverbeds. Early morning fog brings some incredible photography opportunities, as well as precious water to flora and fauna, which have adapted superbly to this harsh environment. Despite its aridity, the area supports a surprisingly high diversity of wildlife including a good number of desert-adapted elephant, and good populations of giraffe, gemsbok, springbok, occasional cheetah and black rhino. Birding is also excellent with White-tailed Shrike and Benguela Long-billed Lark commonly seen.

The landscape around Damaraland Camp is incredibly dramatic and diverse, but what makes it so interesting is how much it alters throughout the year. You could visit the camp year after year, each time in a different month, and be constantly amazed by how different everything looks each time.

The camp offers two board basis':

Fully Inclusive Board Basis - includes accommodation, all meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, all local drinks and laundry. Excluded from the rate are premium imported brands and champagne, gratuities, curio purchases and any items of a personal nature.

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast - includes accommodation, dinner, bed and breakfast. Excluded from the rate are all activities and extras to be settled direct.

Guests travelling in a 4x4 vehicle can drive directly to the camp. Participation in twice daily scheduled camp activities is either included on a Fully Inclusive rate basis or is at an additional cost of the Dinner, Bed & Breakfast rate basis. Alternatively guests can also fly into the camp. The airstrip is approximately 30 minutes from the camp and you will be collected when you land.

Children over the age of 6 are welcome at Damaraland Camp. For families travelling with children between 6 and 12 years, private activities need to be booked and paid for. Any children under the age of 16 must share a tent with an adult. The minimum age for walking activities is 13 years.

Day and night game drives

Guided nature walks

Scorpion walks

Stargazing with a laser pointer

Excursion to Twyfelfontein

Full day excursions with a picnic

Cultural Visits

Rock art excursions