Set in the surreal and remote Kaokoland of northwest Namibia, Hoanib Valley Camp is special and alluring for so many reasons. Not only does it deeply honour its environment, but also the local community and groundbreaking conservation efforts – and it pays homage to the natural heritage of Namibia too.
The small tented camp, with views of the ephemeral Hoanib River, is a joint partnership with the local Sesfontein Community who also staff the camp. It blends seamlessly into its surrounding desert environment, without intrusion. Blink and you could miss it. Even the interior décor of the camp reflects the colours and textures of the surrounding dunes and jagged mountains, along with influences from the local Himba people. Materials for the camp were all sourced locally and furniture and basketware were carefully crafted by local hands. The entire camp is solar-powered with virtually no footprint; it’s built on decks and these too are mostly of recycled material.
In Kaokoland, all life is adapted to desert conditions. So game drives reveal desert-adapted elephant and giraffe – and on occasion desert-adapted rhino and lion may be spotted too. Zebra, kudu, springbok and oryx also live on this sandscape, all having learnt to live lean in the desert. Even the camp is heat adapted, with opening tent flaps to catch the breeze on hot days if you’re not cooling off in the pool.
Should you be up early, climb the little hill behind the camp and watch the sunrise right before you and bathe the valley in honey hues. After an early morning coffee, imagine how you’d like to spend your day: seeing rare desert wildlife on a game drive, communing with the local Himba people and learning their ancient ways, rhino tracking or stretching your legs across the sand on a nature walk. There is a groundbreaking giraffe research project based in the area too. Just ask about it.
Or you could lie low at the lodge and take your own soul safari, staring into the distant desert and clearing your mind completely. Maybe take a desert walk on your own. If ever there was a place to wipe away your worries and instil peace and happiness it is here. In this place of empty space, yet brimming with rare life, you will feel invigorated, renewed and forever grateful for having been there.
What we love!
- The changing light in the desert is like outdoor theatre.
- Seeing rare desert adapted wildlife is a bucket list item.
- Wooden giraffe carvings honour the conservation project.
- It’s other worldly to swim in the pool, surrounded by desert.
What you neeed to know…
- The camp is malaria free.
- There are fans in rooms but not hairdryers.
- There’s a complimentary laundry service.
- Children of all ages are welcome.
- This camp is not wheelchair friendly.
- A three-night stay is recommended.
- Getting there: self-drive from Windhoek or fly to Sesfontein and transfer to the camp on a 90 minute scenic drive.
Reviewed by Keri Harvey