The Camp

Set under verdant trees on the banks of the Kunene River, Serra Cafema is one of the most remote camps in southern Africa. Guests can truly disconnect, unwinding to the sound of rushing water, and beyond, to the desert’s silence. The eight chalets and the common areas are set on elevated decks and crafted in in wood, canvas, and thatch, at one with the environment, paying homage to Himba culture.

The land on which Serra Cafema is constructed is leased from the 300 000-hectare Marienfluss Conservancy which is owned primarily by the Himba people, who are amongst the last semi-nomadic peoples on the planet.

Wildlife

The Kunene River is the only permanent source of water in this region, the river creating an oasis along its banks – a winding band of green surrounded by the lunar-like landscape of the Namib Desert which stretches to the Serra Cafema mountain range in the north. Game viewing in this area is limited to small herds of gemsbok, springbok and Hartmann's mountain zebra. The Kunene River has a large population of Nile crocodiles. Burchell's courser and Benguela long-billed lark are among the characteristic bird species to be found in this area. There are also a number of endemic reptiles, the desert plated lizard being a particular speciality.

The Experience

Tune in, tune out in one of the most untouched places on earth, along a rushing river amidst an ochre desert – one of the world’s oldest. Respectfully engage with a community of Himba, Namibia’s last semi-nomads still living traditionally, and local custodians. Hear their stories, and share yours. When water levels permit, boat on the Kunene, with Angola’s craggy mountains in the distance and plenty of Nile crocs on the banks and in the water. Explore the dunes on foot and in-game vehicles, perhaps spotting oryxes, springbok, Hartmann’s mountain zebras, or tiny desert chameleons. Along specially allocated, low-impact pathways, quad bike across the untamed, lunar landscape.