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Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros
Camp Doros

About Camp Doros

Small, intimate and firmly entrenched within the rugged terrain of Damaraland, Camp Doros revels in its simplicity.

To stay here is to be immersed in the majesty of the surroundings, where massive boulders are scattered across vast plains, and ephemeral rivers add ribbons of green.

Spend your days in search of the rhino that roam these plains, or perhaps seeking out the ancient rock art that is secreted among the rocks. Explore on foot, or by vehicle, and marvel at this timeless landscape.

Back at camp, absorb the spectacle from the daybed on your private deck, or relish the cooling waters of the plunge pool after a day of discovery.

Subtly underpinning it all, Camp Doros boasts impressive environmental credentials.

Furniture is largely created from recycled materials, energy is 100% derived from solar power, and there's a sophisticated process of waste management.

With decent lighting and an open-air bathroom, there are creature comforts aplenty in the walk-in tents. So as you take in the views of this vast landscape from your comfortable bed, it's secure in the knowledge that the camp's footprint is really very small.

Our view

A small new camp within a remote area of Damaraland is cause for celebration. With our experience of the team behind Camp Doros, we have high hopes for its success.

Karen Sharpe

Karen Sharpe

Namibia expert

Accommodation

6 Tents

Children

Best for 8+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Camp Doros

2 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


100%
2 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
2
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Alan and DifromChippy

Arrived 14 Oct 2024, 3 nights

"Camp Doros review"

"An unexpected location - Guide was excellent, informative, Food was lovely ... …" Read Alan and Di’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs PfromReading

Arrived 18 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Camp Doros review"

"A fantastic location and we enjoyed rhino tracking on foot. …" Read Mr & Mrs P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Camp Doros reviews

Safaris visiting Camp Doros

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Map

Black-faced Impala Guided Safari

13 days • 6 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A unique mix of luxury and adventure in our original, and perhaps most varied, destination on a privately guided Namibian overland safari. Perfect for families, friends or couples travelling together.

Visiting Windhoek, Namib-Naukluft and 3 other areas

US$13,460 - US$15,700 per person

Read more about the Black-faced Impala Guided Safari

Camp Doros: Our full report

Opened in 2023, Camp Doros lies within a 190km² community concession at the heart of Namibia’s semi-desert Damaraland.

While we have yet to visit the camp, travellers can expect a stripped-back wilderness experience focusing on top-quality guiding from a team we've known for many years.

The camp overlooks one of the usually dry rivers that wind through this semi-arid land, dotted with groves of mopane trees and offering a lifeline to wildlife. It shares the reserve with its more luxurious sister lodge, Onduli Ridge, although the two are widely separated and independently run.

Just six tents accommodate guests at Camp Doros, each with twin beds, or a double, and one designed for a family. All the tents are set up on platforms, with storage space, solar lighting and charging points, and open-air bathrooms. At the front you’ll find a private deck, with a day bed from which to take in the landscape.

While the firepit at the heart of this small camp is not unexpected, visitors may be surprised to find a plunge pool and sundeck, particularly welcome after a day in the hot Namibian sun.

The main area also incorporates a lounge, complete with chimenea-like fires that come into their own in the winter months, as well as a dining room and bar area.

Although the area around Camp Doros is home to a range of desert-adapted wildlife, from oryx and giraffe to elephant and mountain zebra, the camp’s activities focus on tracking black rhino with their team of experienced guides. Visitors staying for at least three nights may also be able to set out in search of desert-adapted elephant, or to visit rock engravings within the reserve. Nature walks and nature drives add further opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of this very special environment.

The experienced team behind Camp Doros run several other camps in Namibia, including the similarly styled Camp Sossus, which would combine especially well with a few nights here.

Geographics

Location
Damaraland, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
Minimum 2-night stay
Directions
Visitors arriving by air are collected at Onduli Airstrip for the 75-minute guided nature drive to camp.

Those driving their own vehicles should leave their vehicles at the Onduli Airstrip and Lounge, where they will be collected at 3.00pm for the drive to camp.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
Despite the simplicity of Camp Doros, whose kitchen equipment is largely solar and wood-fired, we would anticipate that meals will be as good as those that we’ve experienced at the affiliated Camp Sossus.
Drinks included
Soft and house drinks from local gins and beers to South African wines are included.

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of 6 years and older may stay at Camp Doros. Younger children are accepted where the entire camp is booked for exclusive use.
Property’s age restrictions
Families with children aged 12 or younger must have a private vehicle for activities.
Special activities & services
There is a children’s menu, and family-friendly activities are available.
Equipment
Camp Doros has a family tent.
Generally recommended for children
While the camp has plenty of options for families, we feel it would be best suited to children who are old enough to be genuinely interested in the environment.
Notes
In such an open camp, with wild animals potentially patrolling through, children of all ages must be constantly supervised by an adult or guardian.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Camp Doros

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Camp Doros have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Black Rhino

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Oryx

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Elephant

50% success

Brown Hyena

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Lion

0% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Wildebeest

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a back-up generator.
Communications
There is a dedicated WiFi lounge for guests’ use.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
Bathrooms have plumbed in toilets and hot-water showers.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The closest hospital is in Outjo, about a 2½hr drive from the lodge. In case of emergency, guests can be flown to Windhoek. For more minor treatment, the guides and managers are trained in first aid.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Fire safety

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request

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Camp Doros's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Camp Doros.


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When to go to Damaraland

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Camp Doros in Damaraland


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Damaraland in January

In Damaraland, January marks the start of the rainy season. The rains, though often light and localised, bring life to the desert landscape.

At Twyfelfontein, the rock engravings glisten after sporadic showers. Some days are clear and hot, with temperatures around 30°C/86°F, while others see dramatic thunderstorms. These can create flash floods in ephemeral riverbeds like the Ugab, temporarily transforming the arid terrain. The greening landscape provides a refreshing backdrop for the ancient rock art at Brandberg Mountain.

Many birds in the region are in full breeding plumage, with migrant species adding to the variety. Wildlife, including the desert-adapted elephants, disperses across the rejuvenated landscape, making sightings more challenging, but rewarding. The Damara Living Museum offers insights into how local communities adapt to these seasonal changes.

  • Variable weather: hot, dry or humid with rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms
  • Wildlife dispersed, harder to spot
  • Stark mountains against atmospheric skies
  • Few tourists, low rates at accommodations

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Damaraland in February

February is typically the wettest month in Damaraland, though rainfall remains patchy across this predominantly arid region.

The Spitzkoppe granite peaks against thunderous, atmospheric skies create dramatic vistas for photographers. Some days are clear and hot, while others see afternoon thunderstorms that briefly but dramatically charge the landscape. These rains can make travel more challenging, especially to remote sites like the Epupa Falls. However, the landscape feels vibrant and alive, with insects and smaller animals more easily spotted, and seasonal flowers blooming. Many birds and animals are raising their young, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

Despite the rains, the rock art at Twyfelfontein and the Petrified Forest remain accessible.

  • Hot and humid with occasional rain showers
  • Thunderstorms meander over the landscape
  • Birdlife spectacular, migrant species present
  • Wildlife harder to see, but landscape lush
  • Low tourist numbers, great for solitude

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Damaraland in March

March in Damaraland usually sees the main rains tailing off, though precipitation varies greatly across the region. Many days are clear, with strong sun driving temperatures up, while others may experience light rainfall.

The landscape often appears vivid and green, providing a striking contrast to the bare rocky outcrops of Spitzkoppe and Brandberg. Animals such as springbok and mountain zebra may be finishing raising their young. Small herds of plains game such as these can be more visible against the greener backdrop. The Damara Living Museum showcases how local communities adapt to these seasonal changes. The clearer skies towards the end of the month make for excellent stargazing at lodges where you can move your bed to sleep under the stars.

  • Weather becoming drier as month progresses
  • Animals looking healthy after months of plenty
  • Balmy nights sleeping under star-filled skies
  • Migrant birds begin to depart
  • Few tourists, rates often low at lodges

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Damaraland in April

April in Damaraland is typically dominated by dry weather, with decreasing chances of rain. Temperatures begin to fall, but days remain pleasantly warm. The rains often leave the landscape verdant, creating stunning photo opportunities at sites like the Etendeka Plateau and Klip Valley.

Animals are in fantastic condition, often with fast-growing young in attendance. The desert-adapted elephants may be more easily spotted as they begin to return to the riverbeds to feed on Ana and Camelthorn trees. With dust washed from the atmosphere, photographers can capture clear shots of spectacular landscapes. Stargazers will enjoy increasingly clear night skies. In the Palmwag Concession, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding mammals such as black rhino can still be challenging, but worth the effort.

  • Cooler nights, days still warm and pleasant
  • Landscape still green from recent rains
  • Air clear, for crisp photographs
  • Wildlife starting to become easier to find
  • Easter sees an increase in visitors

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Damaraland in May

By May, Damaraland is usually drying out fast. If rains have been good, the land remains green, especially around natural springs found in valleys and craggy rocksides. The air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography at sites like Twyfelfontein and along the remote Hoanib riverbed.

Temperatures are moderate, typically warm with crisp, clear mornings and blue skies. Evenings are cool enough to wear an extra layer. Many lodges still charge low season prices, offering good value. The combination of increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes, and crystal-clear air make May one of the best months to visit Damaraland. It's an excellent time to explore the region's geological wonders, such as the ancient Etendeka lava flows.

  • Lovely weather: warm days, cool nights
  • Landscape drying out, still some greenery
  • Clear, sharp colours for photography
  • Wildlife more visible along scenic riverbeds
  • Low visitor numbers, moderate lodge rates

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Damaraland in June

June sees Damaraland dry and clear, with blue, largely cloudless skies. Days are often lovely and warm, but nights can be cold, sometimes below freezing in desert areas.

Visitors should pack warm clothing for early morning nature drives to spot desert-adapted elephants or black rhinos. Most outdoor pools are too cold for swimming, except for the very dedicated. It’s a particularly good climate for walking; either short walks or perhaps a multi-day hike on the Etendeka Plateau.

Historically, June prices have been low, but Damaraland's increasing popularity means many lodges now consider it high season.

  • Clear, bright days and cold nights
  • Wonderful for stargazing and night walks
  • Good wildlife viewing in remote wildernesses
  • Hiking comfortable in cooler temperatures
  • Moderate lodge rates, increasing bookings

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Damaraland in July

July in Damaraland offers fairly warm temperatures above 20°C/68°F in the middle of the day, but often cold nights. Visitors should dress in layers and be prepared for chilly mornings and evenings.

Rain is extremely rare, and clear skies make for great photographs of the sandstone mountains in morning and evening light. As vegetation shrivels, animals gather near food and water sources, making sightings of desert-adapted wildlife more likely. Elephant herds are more regularly seen along dry riverbeds during this period.

Lodges charge high season rates, and many are booked up well in advance, especially during European school holidays.

  • Dry days, clear skies, crisp cold nights
  • Peak time for wildlife viewing in Damaraland
  • Desert-adapted elephants more easily spotted
  • Wonderfully cool for day walks and longer hikes
  • High season rates, book accommodations early

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Damaraland in August

August is the height of Damaraland's winter. Expect cloudless skies and usually warm sun during the day, but nights can drop to freezing in desert areas. Visitors should bring warm clothes for nature drives and walks in chilly mornings and evenings.

The landscape begins to change from green to golden grasses and stark hillsides. Wildlife sticks close to dry river-beds where desert-adapted elephants dig for water, creating waterholes for other animals.

The clear, dry conditions make it an excellent time for hiking and exploring geological features like the Organ Pipes and Burnt Mountain.

August is the most popular time to visit Damaraland, especially for families. Booking well in advance is essential.

  • Perfect weather for outdoor activities
  • Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Popular time for hiking and tracking rhino on foot
  • Good time for cultural experiences at Damara Living Museum
  • Peak season, lodges booked up well in advance

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Damaraland in September

September in Damaraland brings blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of, and as the month progresses, days and nights quickly get warmer. Daily maximums can reach the low 30s Celsius/mid-80s Fahrenheit, though low humidity keeps it comfortable. The air becomes dustier, occasionally affecting visibility for photographers at sites like Twyfelfontein or Brandberg.

In the Palmwag Concession and along the Ugab River, animals congregate around remaining water sources, making September one of the best months for game viewing, especially for desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos, but also desert-adapted lion. It's a popular month for visitors, particularly safari enthusiasts seeking sightings of these unique sub-species.

The Himba at Khowarib provide insights into how local communities adapt to the dry season.

  • Warm days, nights getting warmer
  • Landscape golden brown, very photogenic
  • Prime time for seeing desert-adapted wildlife
  • Air can be hazy with dust
  • High season rates, book well in advance

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Damaraland in October

Damaraland is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build throughout the month, with daily highs potentially exceeding 40°C/104°F towards the end. The extreme dryness, though, makes even these high temperatures bearable.

Wildlife watching is at its best, particularly in areas like the remote Palmwag Concession and along the Hoanib River. October is popular among wildlife enthusiasts, as shyer species such as brown hyena and cheetah are more regularly seen. However, dust and occasional smoke may make the air hazy, challenging landscape photographers but creating beautiful sunsets.

Visitor numbers can decrease towards the end of the month, potentially allowing for last-minute bookings at some lodges.

  • Hot and dry, true desert conditions
  • Wildlife congregates at remaining water
  • Excellent month for photographing sunsets
  • Peak tourist time, expect higher rates
  • Unusual species like brown hyena more regularly seen

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Damaraland in November

November in Damaraland is unpredictable; sometimes dry and hot, sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and clear, with clouds gathering from the afternoon. Humidity builds, occasionally resulting in spectacular thunderstorms with convection rainfall in late afternoons. These storms are usually localised and may not reach desert areas.

Places receiving good rain, like parts of the Palmwag Concession, quickly turn green, softening the landscape. Many mammals give birth, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Once rains settle in waterholes, wildlife disperses in search of food, making game viewing more challenging. However, this is an excellent time for birdwatchers, with migrant species arriving and taking on breeding plumage.

The rock art at Twyfelfontein and Brandberg can be particularly striking after light rains.

  • Variable weather, possibility of rain
  • New growth if rains arrive, landscape greens
  • Wildlife viewing still good, with babies often born
  • Shoulder season rates offer better value
  • Birdlife increases with migrant arrivals

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Damaraland in December

December is often a dry month between November’s short rains and the main rains in January, and is one of its hottest months. Occasional short, often spectacular thunderstorms are often highly localised and generally welcomed, clearing the air of dust and allowing plant life to flourish. This creates a green carpet across the usually arid landscape, providing food for young animals.

Wildlife, including the desert-adapted elephants, disperses widely as food is more plentiful, making game viewing in areas like the Palmwag Concession more challenging. But sightings in early December can be enjoyed and photographed at leisure often with few or no other viewers. Many birds are breeding, sporting their most colorful plumage.

Christmas and New Year fall within local summer holidays, so accommodation options can be surprisingly busy, especially in cooler areas near the coast.

  • Hot days, possibility of refreshing showers
  • Landscape may become green with early rains
  • Good time for seeing young animals
  • Desert-adapted species less concentrated
  • Holiday season brings more visitors

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

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