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Palmwag Sleep-out
Palmwag Sleep-out
Palmwag Sleep-out
Palmwag Sleep-out
Palmwag Sleep-out

About Palmwag Sleep-out

If you are an adventurous traveller and visiting northern Damaraland for a couple of nights, then you might ...

... enjoy the Palmwag Lodge sleep-out option to soak up the atmosphere of this wild environment.

For adventurous traveller and visiting northern Damaraland the Palmwag Sleep-out is a fantastic option. Run by friendly knowledgeable guides it is a chance to escape into the wilds of Namibia and experience camping under the epic southern night sky.

Our view

For adventurous traveller and visiting northern Damaraland the Palmwag Sleep-out is a fantastic option. Run by friendly knowledgeable guides it is a chance to escape into the wilds of Namibia and experience camping under the epic southern night sky.

Tom Morris

Tom Morris

Country manager: Namibia

Accommodation

Children

Best for 14+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Fly-camping

Fly-camping

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Palmwag Sleep-out

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


93%
3 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
2
Good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr & Mrs HfromWirral

Arrived 12 Sep 2024, 1 nights

"Palmwag Sleep-out review"

"basic... Very good guides …" Read Mr & Mrs H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

BarnesfromHampshire

Arrived 12 Sep 2024, 1 nights

"Palmwag Sleep-out review"

"one of the highlights of our trip …" Read Barnes’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Family VfromBelgium

Arrived 19 Jul 2017, 1 nights

"Palmwag Sleep-out review"

"Glad we didn't have to stay at the Lodge itself, which seemed (over-)crowded, …" Read Family V’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Palmwag Sleep-out reviews

Palmwag Sleep-out: Our full report

If you are an adventurous traveller and visiting northern Damaraland for a couple of nights, then you might ...

... enjoy the Palmwag Lodge sleep-out option to soak up the atmosphere of this wild environment.

If you decide to do the sleep-out, then you'll head into the Palmwag Concession from the Lodge in the afternoon (typically around 3.30pm) with a 4WD vehicle and guide. You'll explore the concession and take in the stunning scenery of the Aub Canyon, hopefully spotting some of the area’s resident wildlife such as ostrich, zebra and oryx – before arriving at the sleep-out site in the late afternoon.

On arrival, you’ll be shown around the simple camp, which centers on the campfire with the dome tents neatly arranged in a circle beyond it. While your guide puts the finishing touches to the camp, you can relax with some pre-dinner drinks and take in the sunset.

As darkness falls, the delicious aromas of your dinner cooking over the coals will entice you towards the campfire. Dinner is served around the fire and the food is simple but tasty - usually consisting of marinated meats accompanied by a selection of salads.

When you're ready to sleep, you'll retire to your own dome tent. Each tent is furnished with a bedroll, sleeping bag, and blanket. The sides of the tent can be rolled back to leave only insect-proof gauze netting and a clear view of the night sky. Outside there is a washstand filled with water, and soap and a towel are provided. The rudimentary bush loo is tucked away amongst the mopane trees that flank the camp. There are not normally any shower facilities.

Overnight your guide will ensure the fire continues to burn brightly to ward off any overly curious visitors - it’s not uncommon to have hyena and jackals wander through camp during the early hours … You'll probably be woken by the dawn light and chorus of birds – a great way to wake up!

After a simple breakfast, you’ll have the option to do a short guided nature walk before the game drive back to the lodge. Typically, guests on the sleep-out would arrive back at Palmwag Lodge around 11 am to 12 pm.

On our last visit to Palmwag in March 2017 we tried the sleep-out ourselves and thoroughly enjoyed this simple camping experience. Our experience was enhanced by our guide who was friendly and knowledgeable and very good at pointing out many of the smaller aspects of nature that make this region unique – such as the poisonous Euphorbia damarana bushes that are sometimes used like ‘beanbags’ by sleeping elephants!

The Palmwag sleep-out needs to be booked in advance. It is usually run on a shared basis with other guests.

Geographics

Location
Damaraland, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
1-2 nights
Directions
Heading north on the C43 signposted Palmwag, not far past the junction with the C40, you reach the veterinary fence. Some 500m past this on the left-hand side you will see the sign for Palmwag Lodge. Note that if you are driving from the east, the route via the C40, over the Grootberg Pass, offers great views of the Damaraland landscape.
Accessible by
Self-drive

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Dining style
Group Meals

Children

Attitude towards children
Property’s age restrictions
No children under the age of 12 years are permitted.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Palmwag Sleep-out

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Palmwag Sleep-out 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.

Giraffe

100% success

Oryx

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Black Rhino

0% success

Brown Hyena

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Elephant

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Lion

0% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Zebra

0% success

Communications

Water supply
Transported in

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Khorixas. Nurses are available closer and there is a medical kit in the lodge. Medi-rescue is also available.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Fire safety

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Fly-camping

    Fly-camping

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access

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Palmwag Sleep-out's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Palmwag Sleep-out.


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When to go to Damaraland

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Palmwag Sleep-out 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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