Kaokoland Private Lodges: Okahirongo Elephant Lodge and Beyond

The Kaokoland private lodge offering is small but focused. The lodges that operate here are specifically positioned to access the desert elephant, the river landscape, and the cultural experience in a guided format with proper facilities.


Okahirongo Elephant Lodge

Located on the Kunene River approximately 40km downstream from Epupa Falls, Okahirongo is a mid-to-high-end lodge with 10 cottages positioned on the river bank. The lodge’s name reflects its primary wildlife focus: the desert-adapted elephant that use the Kunene River corridor are regularly encountered from the lodge’s vehicle and walking activities.

Aktivitäten: Guided elephant tracking drives; Kunene River walks; cultural visits to adjacent Himba communities; birding on the river. Access: Via the river track from Epupa (40km on rough track; 4×4 required); fly-in option available. Character: The most comfortable private accommodation in the northern Kaokoland area.


Palmwag Lodge (Southern Kaokoland)

Technically in the Damaraland-Kaokoland boundary area, Palmwag Lodge is the main base for the Palmwag Concession black rhino tracking programme. The lodge provides comfortable accommodation and is the only full-service lodge in the southern Kaokoland environment.

Black rhino tracking: Available through the Rhino Camp at Palmwag; guided walks with Save the Rhino Trust trackers; one of the best rhino tracking experiences in Namibia.


Rhino Camp at Palmwag

A tented camp specifically for the black rhino tracking experience; smaller and more intimate than Palmwag Lodge. Positioned to allow early morning rhino tracking departures.

Contact Mat-Travel for all Kaokoland private lodge bookings.