Brandberg

Safari in Damaraland: Rhinos, Twyfelfontein and the White Lady

Damaraland is a stunning and rugged region. Dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and unique wildlife beckon. This vast wilderness in northwestern Namibia is a must-visit. Anyone interested in geological wonders and cultural heritage will find their fill. From prehistoric rock art to desert-adapted elephants, Damaraland promises an unforgettable adventure.

Quick Facts

The Damaraland region is a near-immeasurable, untamed area in northern Namibia:. The area boasts striking landscapes, towering boulders, and a rich cultural history. The area is semi-arid and sparsely populated. It also holds some of the country’s most famous rock features and wildlife.

Named after the Damara people, other indigenous groups live here, too. Especially the Himba villages are a popular tourist attraction. Here, the Himba share their traditional ways of life.

Where is Damaraland?

In the northwestern part of Namibia, between the Etosha National Park and the Skeleton Coast. It is part of the Kunene region.

What is Special About Damaraland?

The Twyfelfontein rock engravings are over 2,000 years old. Brandberg Mountain is the largest mountain in the area. Desert-adapted elephants have learned new behaviours they teach to their young. In the Petrified Forest, million-year-old trees turned to stone when the land dried up.

Der Palmwag Concession, a nature reserve close to the Namib Desert, offers game viewing, nature drives and vibrant birdlife.

How Do You Get to Damaraland?

It’s a 6-hour drive from Windhoek, with easy access for self-drive safaris or guided tours. You can also make your way up the Skeleton Coast from Swakopmund.

Best Time to Visit Damaraland in Namibia

Damaraland can be visited throughout the year. Different activities are easier in different seasons.

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season is generally the best time to visit Namibia. This time is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals flock to waterholes. The weather during winter is mild and the skies are clear. It’s perfect for outdoor exploration and star gazing.

  • Pros: Best time for spotting desert-adapted elephants, clear skies for stargazing, cooler temperatures.
  • Cons: Popular season, so some lodges may be fully booked.

Wet Season (November to April)

During the summer, landscapes transform with greenery and blooming plants. While wildlife might be harder to spot, the scenery is lush, and birdwatching is at its best.

  • Pros: Beautiful landscapes, fewer tourists, and migratory birds.
  • Cons: Less wildlife, high heat and the rain may damage roads.

Top Safari Attractions in Damaraland

Natural and cultural wonders offer an unforgettable experience on your trip to Namibia. Here are the must-see attractions found in the Damaraland:

Twyfelfontein Rock Art

Twyfelfontein is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the largest collections of ancient rock art in Africa, it has over 2,500 petroglyphs. They show animals and humans in all shapes and sizes. The San people etched them into the sandstone thousands of years ago. This site is an essential stop for anyone interested in the Stone Age.

Brandberg Mountain

At 1,800 meters, Brandberg Mountain is Namibia’s highest peak. It’s home to the famous “White Lady”, a rock painting that has puzzled archaeologists for years. The mountain’s dramatic red rock face glows at sunset, creating breathtaking views.

Petrified Forest

The Petrified Forest near Khorixas is home to massive fossilized tree trunks. A great flood swept them into the area over 280 million years ago. Over time, they turned to stone. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Namibian geology.

Vingerklip (Finger Rock)

A towering rock formation stands alone in the Ugab Valley. Vingerklip is a striking stone pillar that rises 35 meters into the air. A great spot for hiking, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Spitzkoppe

The “Matterhorn of Namibia” is an inselberg, a dramatic peak in the middle of flat land. Spitzkoppe is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The various red granite hills make for spectacular photos during sunset and sunrise.

Animals in Damaraland 

The region is home to a variety of desert-adapted wildlife. Unique behaviors empower them to live in this harsh biome.

Desert Elephants

Damaraland is one of two places in the world where you can see desert-adapted elephants. Passing on survival behaviors to their young, these elephants are often on the move to find water. The babies depend on their mothers much longer than normal savanna elephants.

Anyone looking for something special can go on a guided tracking experience. Following the elephants on foot really brings home that African safari feeling.

Black Rhinos

The critically endangered black rhino is under strict conservation in Damaraland. Also called the hook-lipped rhino because of its unique mouth, they pick the leaves off of bushes.

Conservation efforts have paid off. Damaraland now has the largest population of free-roaming black rhinos in the world. They’re somewhat anti-social, but there is a small chance of seeing them while driving.

Other Wildlife

As a savanna, Damaraland is home to many different animals. Giraffes often wander across the plains. Oryx (gemsbok) and springbok graze scattered or in tight herds. Hartmann’s mountain zebras blend in with the trees. Even big cats like lions, cheetahs and leopards are occasionally spotted.

Cultural Damaraland Experiences 

Damaraland is rich in cultural heritage. Travellers can engage with ancient Namibian indigenous communities on their terms.

The Himba People

The semi-nomadic Himba people are known for their striking appearance. The women cover their skin and hair with a mixture of ochre and butterfat. Visiting a Himba village is an opportunity to learn about their traditional lifestyle. Cattle herding, crafting, and ceremonies are important aspects of this ancient culture.

The Damara People

The Damara people have lived in this area for centuries. A highlight is the Damara Living Museum. Travellers can experience traditional Damara culture. Guides show how to make stone tools or start fires. Family members entertain guests with traditional music and dance.

The Herero People

The Herero and Khoekhoe people were the first inhabitants of this area. They can still be found in northern Damaraland.

Accommodation in Damaraland 

Damaraland offers many accommodation options, from luxury lodges to eco-friendly camps. Here are some of the top choices:

Onduli Ridge

This luxury safari lodge in southern Damaraland offers magnificent suites nestled among granite boulders. With a view of Brandberg to the south and other inselbergs to the north, it promises to blend your stay with nature. When the sky is clear, the king-size bed can be rolled onto the private deck for star gazing.

Twyfelfontein Country Lodge

With comfortable accommodation, it’s a convenient option for cultural explorers. The San rock art at Twyfelfontein and the Damara Living Museum are close by. Guided drives in the dry bed of the Aba-Huab River let you see the landscape up close.

Lodge Damaraland

Eco- and budget-conscious, this getaway close to the town of Khorixas is part of the “Arid Eden Route”. The Arid Eden collection of sights stretches from Swakopmund to the Kunene River on the Angolan border.

Palmwag Concession

The Palmwag Concession is state land under the Big 3 Trust. Three conservancies are working together to protect nature, people and wildlife here. Palmwag Lodge and Campsite are often the last stop on the way to northern Namibia. Here, rhino tracking in the Huab River Valley is a favourite activity.

Self-Drive and Guided Tours in Damaraland 

There is virtually no other way to get to a lodge or campsite than driving yourself. However, from there you have some options to customize your Namibia safari.

Game drives can be especially rewarding, depending on what you’re looking for:

Self-Driving in Damaraland

Damaraland is a fantastic region for self-drive explorers. The roads are mostly gravel, best suited for a 4×4 vehicle. There are as many lodges and campsites as detours and tracks to follow.

Guided Tours

For those who prefer to take a break from driving, many lodges offer guided tours. Expert guides provide unique insights into wildlife and geology. They can share the culture of the region and show you things you might miss otherwise.

Travel Tips for Damaraland 

Damaraland’s rugged beauty makes it a dream for photographers. A real camera is ideal for capturing wildlife shots, but a good phone can do wonders as well. You are not allowed to fly drones anywhere in the area.

Take a GPS, extra water and extra fuel for your Damaraland safari. Always check your tires are in good order before heading out. Keep your headlights on and scan the surrounding bush for animals before stopping.

As anywhere else in Namibia, book early to avoid disappointment. Make sure to hydrate, stay out of the sun over lunch and keep an eye out for mosquitos. Netting, long clothes and anti-bug spray are good items to have.

Ready for Your Namibian Dream?

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore one of Namibia’s most captivating regions. Book your Damaraland adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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