Palmwag Concession

Pros & Cons

• Beautiful mountain and valley scenery
• Independent exploration is possible by 4WD vehicle
• Chance to see desert-adapted elephant and lion
• Never crowded
• Very few accommodations
• Low wildlife densities

Wildlife

You might see desert-adapted elephant or lion in Palmwag, as well as giraffe, spotted hyena and springbok. Palmwag’s black rhinos can be seen on a rhino-tracking excursion organized through one of the lodges in the area. But because the wildlife here lives at such low density, you could easily spend a day exploring and be lucky to see a springbok.

Scenery

Palmwag has classic Damaraland landscapes, with barren mountains cut through with seasonal riverbeds such as the Uniab, Aub and Barab Rivers. The rivers rarely flow but can become torrents after heavy rains in the highlands. The concession’s west has broad sandy valleys, while the steep, narrow Aub Canyon and the high Aub-Barab Pass in the north are spectacular.

Activities

Self-guided 4WD excursions along more than 100km/60mi of rocky trails are possible in Palmwag. You’ll need to buy a permit (N$150 per vehicle and N$100 per person per day) and get a map through your accommodations or at the concession gate. You can also join a rhino-tracking day trip, which is organized by lodges in the area.

Weather & Climate

The weather and climate of Palmwag Concession is similar to that of Damaraland. More info:

• Weather & Climate – Damaraland

Best Time To Visit

Palmwag is at its best during the Dry season, from May to October. During these months, expect mild daytime temperatures with cool evenings and early mornings (bring a warm jacket). Rain is extremely rare, and the conditions are ideal for traveling and wildlife viewing. During the Wet season, from November to April, it can be unpleasantly hot.

Getting There

To get to Palmwag Concession from Etosha National Park, it’s around 370km/230mi on the C38 and C40 roads via the towns of Outjo and Kamanjab. The drive takes 4 to 5 hours*. From the coastal city of Swakopmund, it’s a 452km/281mi drive (6 hours*) to Palmwag via Torra Bay. Most roads in the area are unsealed gravel roads. They’re generally in excellent condition but can be slippery after heavy rains.
*Driving times are only a rough indication. You should always consider the possibility of significant delays.

Health & Safety

Please read our malaria and vaccinations page for Namibia, and our general ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ below for more info:

• Malaria & Vaccinations – Namibia
• Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Want To Visit Palmwag Concession?

15 Palmwag Concession Safaris

• Palmwag Concession Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Palmwag Concession