Damaraland

Pros & Cons

• Great wilderness experience
• Stunning desert scenery
• A chance to see rare desert elephants, lions and black rhinos
• Numerous accommodation options catering to different budgets
• Low densities and variety of wildlife
• Remote destination with varying unsealed road conditions
• Very hot climate

Wildlife

Northern Damaraland is one of the only places in Africa to see desert elephant, and even desert-adapted lion. Black rhino also fare well in a desert environment, and the Save the Rhino Trust has set up a program to track these hard-to-find creatures. Other animals that can be encountered are giraffe, Hartmann’s mountain zebra, gemsbok, greater kudu, eland and springbok. Leopard and cheetah are present but seldom seen.

• More about Damaraland’s wildlife

Scenery

Damaraland has some of the most spectacular desert landscapes in Africa. Wild desert mountains with jagged peaks and barren slopes rise from the Skeleton Coast. Elsewhere, deep ravines, cliffs and outcrops create a perfect environment for well-preserved ancient rock art. The Spitzkoppe, a remnant of an ancient volcano, is one of Namibia’s most recognizable landmarks and a popular climbing destination.

Activities

Although there are a number of community concessions or conservancies, which may have their own rules, there are no national parks in Damaraland. This means that both guided and self-guided game drives are possible, as well as night drives and guided walks. Another highlight is the chance to go rhino tracking, an activity that is offered by some lodges and camps.

Weather & Climate

Damaraland’s climate can vary from very hot daytime temperatures in summer, which is known as the Wet season (November to April), to very cold nighttime temperatures in winter, which is the Dry season (May to October). This is mainly due to significant changes in altitude across the region, with temperatures falling as you clamber up the coastal mountains. Generally, winter is very dry, while summer has only occasional rainfall.

• More about the weather and climate

Best Time To Visit

The best weather and your greatest chance of seeing wildlife are in the Dry season (May to October). During this time, animals are more likely to stay close to the few remaining water sources and wildlife viewing at local waterholes is most rewarding. If you’re more into landscapes, you might appreciate the greener environment and dust-free skies that are hallmarks of the Wet season (November to April).

• More about the best time to visit

Want To Visit Damaraland?

100 Damaraland Safaris

• Damaraland Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Damaraland