Damaraland Camp

Situated on the north bank of the Huab River Valley, 90km from Torra Bay and in the 80,000-hectare Torra Wildlife Conservancy you find Damaraland Camp. Each of its ten adobe-styled, 60m safari tent structures is raised up on wooden decks to take in the magnificent views. Recently refurbished, the tents are cooled by fan and have a thatched roof and canvas wraparound, while the en-suite bathroom has a rugged finish resembling local village clay walls.

Visitors rise early to track the endangered black rhino or take nature drives into the Huab River System to see the rare desert elephants and other species that have adapted to desert life, with the odd sighting of lion and cheetah.

After cooling off in the swimming pool, walks are recommended in the late afternoons and they provide an opportunity to birdwatch or appreciate other forms of desert life such as the Euphorbia and Shepherd trees. Star gazing is nothing short of spectacular.

An excursion to the world-famous Twyfelfontein rock engravings nearby is a must, and a cultural visit to a nearby village also provides an opportunity to understand the rare synergy orchestrated between owner and operator, Wilderness Safaris, and this unique community – a partnership that is one of the most successful sustainable tourism models today.

The Torra Community are shareholders in the sustainable eco-tourism venture – winner of the WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Conservation Award in 2005.

Mists bring relief to this dry area where the river flows only once or twice during the short rainy season, seldom breaking through the dunes to the ocean. The views towards the brooding Brandberg peaks in the distance as the mists come drifting inland along the river line, make this an unforgettable safari experience. Formed by the icy Atlantic air meeting the warm land mass along the Skeleton Coast, it reflects a cycle of nature that’s both ancient and awe inspiring.