Rothwell Rose

The camp has a very unique design, quite unlike the other Wilderness camps around Namibia. It has a very modern feel to it and is very chic, quite unlike the traditional safari camp style. There are eight suites, one of which is a family unit with two bedrooms. The innovative design of the suites results in the light flooding the rooms through the floor to ceiling glass windows. Panels within the canvas walls allows the fresh air to flow through the rooms and they’ve been cleverly designed in a manner that keeps them cool during the hot days but insulated when it’s cold.

The muted desert tones of the surroundings are reflected in the tents themselves, giving them a lovely light and airy feel. The suites all have en-suite bathrooms with ‘his and hers’ basins and a huge rain shower. Outside the suites is a covered veranda with seating where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

The main tented areas at the camp have a similar design to the tented suites, and include both indoor and outdoor lounge areas, a dining room, a bar, an outdoor dining area and a swimming pool.

The camp is in a very rugged and remote area and as such isn’t easily accessible, only reachable via light aircraft transfer from Doro Nawas. Whilst it is technically in the Skeleton Coast region guests should be aware that it’s not actually located on the coast itself but about a 4-6 hour drive away. As a result excursions to the coast are only included for guests staying 3 nights or more. It is an epic excursion though so not one to be missed if at all possible.

Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is located in a vast valley, just where two trivutaries of the dry Hoanib River meet. This is in the northern part of Damaraland, in a private concession straddling the Palmwag area and the Skeleton Coast National Park. This is a rugged and remote landscape, with spectacular scenery, huge sand dunes, and unexpected oases to be discovered. This is one of the most remote areas of the Kunene Region, formally known as the Kaokoveld.

This Kunene Region is one of the harshest environments on the planet, with endless vistas across the stark plains, ancient valleys, rugged peaks and desolate coastline. The ephemeral rivers that bisect it form linear oases as they meander their way west towards the sea. The vegetation that fringes their courses provides sustenance to a diverse array of superbly adapted desert wildlife like black rhino, elephant, springbok, gemsbok, giraffe and Hartmann's mountain zebra. The most reliable source of water here is the fog created when the icy Atlantic waters meet the warm air of the coast.

Whilst it is a difficult camp to get to our opinion is that it is 100% worth the effort. The landscape surrounding the camp is like no where else in the world, its a destination so few travellers will ever get to see, and a completely unforgettable one. Not only is there so much to see in the area around the camp but you can also visit the iconic Skeleton Coast during the stay which is a real experience.

The camp operates on a 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.

Hoanib Skeleton Coast is not accessible on a self-drive basis. For any self-drive itinerary, vehicles would need to be parked at Door Nawas Camp, with a return seat on the Wilderness Air Namibia Flying Circuit between Doro Nawas and Hoanib to be booked and paid for at an additional cost.

There is a research centre at the camp and when the wildlife researchers are in residence guests can enjoy attending talks and presentations.

Children over the age of 6 are welcome at Hoanib Skeleton Coast. 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.

Day and night game drives

Guided walks

Search for desert-adapted wildlife

Visit the Skeleton Coast

See a Cape fur seal colony

Day trips to Desert Oases

Interaction with wildlife researchers