Desert Rhino Camp

About

Originally established as a field station dedicated to black rhino conservation, Desert Rhino Camp is operated by Wilderness in partnership with Save the Rhino Trust Namibia and local community conservancies. Completely rebuilt in 2024, the camp has a contemporary design inspired by the colours and textures of Damaraland, using canvas, stone and timber to blend naturally into the landscape. Conservation remains central to the experience, with a stay directly contributing towards the protection and monitoring of the area’s important black rhino population.

Rooms

Accommodation comprises just six contemporary canvas and stone suites, including one family unit, each positioned to make the most of the surrounding desert views. Interiors combine earthy colours and natural materials with comfortable modern furnishings, while deep overhanging roofs provide shelter from the desert climate. Each suite also has its own stargazing deck, providing a wonderful place to appreciate the remarkable night skies and complete sense of isolation.

Dining

Dining at Desert Rhino Camp draws heavily on Namibia’s culinary traditions, with menus incorporating regional ingredients and produce sourced from local farmers. Meals can be enjoyed around the campfire, beneath the stars or in special locations out in the wilderness, including picnic lunches during longer rhino tracking excursions. Sundowners overlooking the desert provide a fitting end to a day of exploration, while the intimate nature of the camp creates a relaxed and sociable atmosphere in the evenings.

Activity

Rhino tracking is the defining experience at Desert Rhino Camp, with guests joining specialist trackers from Save the Rhino Trust to search for desert-adapted black rhino by vehicle and, when conditions allow, on foot. Nature drives explore the wider Palmwag landscape in search of Hartmann’s mountain zebra, giraffe, springbok and other desert-adapted wildlife, while guided nature walks reveal the smaller details of this remarkable ecosystem. Stargazing and birdwatching are also available.