Reviews of safaris to Damaraland
1130 holiday reviews from our travellers of holidays which include Damaraland.
Mr D.
Chelmsford
"My Sep 2018 trip"
I visited Namibia and 1 other country between 7 Sep 2018 and 4 Oct 2018
"Overall an excellent trip which showed off the diversity of Namibia
The only aspect of the trip that was poor was Windhoek airport - a disaster area with no concept of care for travellers - particularly immigration Not a good advertisement to encourage travellers!" Read full review: 27 nights in Africa; 20 on a Namibia trip
The only aspect of the trip that was poor was Windhoek airport - a disaster area with no concept of care for travellers - particularly immigration Not a good advertisement to encourage travellers!" Read full review: 27 nights in Africa; 20 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
Mr M & Ms E
France
"The most magical honeymoon! "
I visited Namibia between 6 Sep 2018 and 17 Sep 2018
"We truly could not have dreamed of a more special place to spend our honeymoon! Every aspect of the trip was so exciting - from our driving to all of the different lodges to getting to see such different terrains of the country. The whole trip - from A to Z - was so perfectly organized by Expert Africa (and Wilderness Safari). It was such a pleasure to work and plan the trip with Sabina, who was very responsive and conscientious of what we envisioned for our honeymoon.
My only negative comment would be relating to the disappointing choice of stays at the Okaukeujo Camp, as well as the Hotel Thule. Not that these hotels were truly awful, but coming from each of the different other amazing lodges, it really felt like a dip in our trip, as they were average, if not poor hotels. Given that it was our honeymoon, it would have been nice to have stayed at consistently nice accommodations so that there would have not been any regressing point during our trip.
This being said - the Voigtland Guesthouse - which I personally asked Sabina to book for us as it was not originally on the Expert Africa list of recommended hotels, was absolutely wonderful. We stayed there our final night and the owner's Stephan and Gaby could not have shown us a warmer stay. It is also only a twenty minute drive from the International airport, making it the perfect hotel to stay at the final night's stay in Windhoek before heading home. My hope is that Expert Africa familiarizes themselves with more hotels around Windhoek, as the few options that were offered to us were not of the same ranking in terms of quality as the other lodges/hotels around Namibia.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Again, we were so impressed with how organized everything was for our trip! There wasn't a single time where we felt lost regarding any of the planned details. From renting the car to making sure we had all the necessary material for each of the hotel checkins, Expert Africa made sure we were more than prepared for each part of our trip.
Besides the two hotels where we felt a bit underwhelmed by (the Okaukuejo Camp and the Hotel Thule), every single lodge we stayed at was absolutely amazing. One other small suggestion would be to recommend to clients to download the 'map.me' navigation app. Although Expert Africa provided us with a physical map, this app provided us offline driving routes all throughout Namibia that really helped us navigate our route to each lodge. It worked really well and gave us extra confidence driving in a country we were both unfamiliar with." Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 10 on a Namibia trip
My only negative comment would be relating to the disappointing choice of stays at the Okaukeujo Camp, as well as the Hotel Thule. Not that these hotels were truly awful, but coming from each of the different other amazing lodges, it really felt like a dip in our trip, as they were average, if not poor hotels. Given that it was our honeymoon, it would have been nice to have stayed at consistently nice accommodations so that there would have not been any regressing point during our trip.
This being said - the Voigtland Guesthouse - which I personally asked Sabina to book for us as it was not originally on the Expert Africa list of recommended hotels, was absolutely wonderful. We stayed there our final night and the owner's Stephan and Gaby could not have shown us a warmer stay. It is also only a twenty minute drive from the International airport, making it the perfect hotel to stay at the final night's stay in Windhoek before heading home. My hope is that Expert Africa familiarizes themselves with more hotels around Windhoek, as the few options that were offered to us were not of the same ranking in terms of quality as the other lodges/hotels around Namibia.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Again, we were so impressed with how organized everything was for our trip! There wasn't a single time where we felt lost regarding any of the planned details. From renting the car to making sure we had all the necessary material for each of the hotel checkins, Expert Africa made sure we were more than prepared for each part of our trip.
Besides the two hotels where we felt a bit underwhelmed by (the Okaukuejo Camp and the Hotel Thule), every single lodge we stayed at was absolutely amazing. One other small suggestion would be to recommend to clients to download the 'map.me' navigation app. Although Expert Africa provided us with a physical map, this app provided us offline driving routes all throughout Namibia that really helped us navigate our route to each lodge. It worked really well and gave us extra confidence driving in a country we were both unfamiliar with." Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 10 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
C & D
Woking/Brighton
"Namibia was wonderful, enjoyed every minute!"
I visited Namibia between 4 Sep 2018 and 16 Sep 2018
"It was a really fantastic holiday! Absolutely loved every minute - each place we stayed was lovely in it's own way, the driving was easy and being in Etosha was a long held dream come true! The dramatic landscapes and beautiful animals are just breath-taking to see! Our trip was carefully planned to ensure that we had a good mix of 'safari-time' in the National parks and downtime to rest and enjoy the beautiful surroundings."
Read full review: 12 nights in Africa; 10 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
Mr & Mrs Braddock
UK
"Namibia Trip"
I visited Namibia between 4 Sep 2018 and 20 Sep 2018
"I have always said that I would set foot on all seven continents before I was dead and gone and although I had been to Tunisia and Eqypt and therefore have set foot on the African continent it was never the "Africa" that comes to mind. But the seventh continent under our belt I never really considered a safari seriously until some friends went to Namibia with Expert Africa. They were full of praise for their experience with Expert Africa and Namibia in particular and so we gave it a go and how very VERY glad we did!!!!
We have fallen in love with Namibia, a beautiful vast country with helpful friendly people wherever we went and not just in the Lodges. The vast distances to travel over also do not detract from the experience but indeed add to it making me certainly feel I have travelled and experienced Africa to the fullest.
This trip has certainly eaten into my soul and that of my wife dictating that we will return to not just Namibia but also to neighbouring countries to see more of this fabulous continent and experience the wildlife up close and personal. As a photographer it has been a dream and trawling through my photographs I am longing to return!!!!!
Thank you Africa, Thank you Namibia, Thank you Expert Africa and Thank you Josh Flatman for your valued help and patience in arranging such a wonderful experience...............do you need a mystery shopper to go out for you to check on the Lodges?????????
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Absolutely none!!!!!" Read full review: 16 nights in Africa; 14 on a Namibia trip
We have fallen in love with Namibia, a beautiful vast country with helpful friendly people wherever we went and not just in the Lodges. The vast distances to travel over also do not detract from the experience but indeed add to it making me certainly feel I have travelled and experienced Africa to the fullest.
This trip has certainly eaten into my soul and that of my wife dictating that we will return to not just Namibia but also to neighbouring countries to see more of this fabulous continent and experience the wildlife up close and personal. As a photographer it has been a dream and trawling through my photographs I am longing to return!!!!!
Thank you Africa, Thank you Namibia, Thank you Expert Africa and Thank you Josh Flatman for your valued help and patience in arranging such a wonderful experience...............do you need a mystery shopper to go out for you to check on the Lodges?????????
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Absolutely none!!!!!" Read full review: 16 nights in Africa; 14 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
Mr & Mrs B
W Midlands
"Simply a wonderful trip"
I visited Namibia between 4 Sep 2018 and 15 Sep 2018
"We cannot praise Expert Africa highly enough. All your recommendations were spot on, there were no hiccups, and there were some little personal touches, such as marking up the locations of our lodges on the map, which we had no right to expect.
We did not see all Namibia has to offer but enough to appreciate how much it has to offer and be able to confidently recommend others to go. We would also recommend others to opt for the larger car. The driving was a joy. Although the distances varied each day we reached our destinations by 2 pm every day except the last and this allowed us to relax and, from Hohenstein, enjoy a swim,
Indeed the quality of the lodges (accommodation and food); their locations and scenery; and the chance to experience the cool freshness in the early morning and relax with a drink as the sun went down; were probably as important in our enjoyment as seeing the amazing dunes and the rich variety of game animals.
So, a huge thank you
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
We are lost to think of anything" Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 11 on a Namibia trip
We did not see all Namibia has to offer but enough to appreciate how much it has to offer and be able to confidently recommend others to go. We would also recommend others to opt for the larger car. The driving was a joy. Although the distances varied each day we reached our destinations by 2 pm every day except the last and this allowed us to relax and, from Hohenstein, enjoy a swim,
Indeed the quality of the lodges (accommodation and food); their locations and scenery; and the chance to experience the cool freshness in the early morning and relax with a drink as the sun went down; were probably as important in our enjoyment as seeing the amazing dunes and the rich variety of game animals.
So, a huge thank you
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
We are lost to think of anything" Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 11 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
A and A
Cossington
"My Aug 2018 trip"
I visited Namibia between 30 Aug 2018 and 16 Sep 2018
"Namibia was wonderful - so much more colourful than we expected.
The typical Namibian lodge we stayed in was in a good location (a bit of a drive from the main road), had well appointed rooms with a view, a warm welcome, a sundowner spot or drive, a 'signature' activity, and a nice dinner and breakfast. Service in general was good everywhere. 2 night stops in most locations worked well - we generally needed a full day to do whatever the 'signature' activity was.
Our highlights were Fish River canyon - it's a long, long drive south, but really worth it, Tok Tokkie Trails - sleeping under the stars, and Etosha - Okaukuejo camp facilities weren't great, but the water hole made it so much better than staying outside the park.
4WD car essential, together with an ipod for the long drives and in September in the south the nights were very cold - need jacket and a hat!
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Can't fault anything about the trip.
We had a couple of problems - delayed bag, forgotten Kindle, on both of which we were helped by the local team - thank you!" Read full review: 17 nights in Africa; 17 on a Namibia trip
The typical Namibian lodge we stayed in was in a good location (a bit of a drive from the main road), had well appointed rooms with a view, a warm welcome, a sundowner spot or drive, a 'signature' activity, and a nice dinner and breakfast. Service in general was good everywhere. 2 night stops in most locations worked well - we generally needed a full day to do whatever the 'signature' activity was.
Our highlights were Fish River canyon - it's a long, long drive south, but really worth it, Tok Tokkie Trails - sleeping under the stars, and Etosha - Okaukuejo camp facilities weren't great, but the water hole made it so much better than staying outside the park.
4WD car essential, together with an ipod for the long drives and in September in the south the nights were very cold - need jacket and a hat!
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Can't fault anything about the trip.
We had a couple of problems - delayed bag, forgotten Kindle, on both of which we were helped by the local team - thank you!" Read full review: 17 nights in Africa; 17 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
Dr D & Prof H
UK
"Namibia August/September 2018"
I visited Namibia between 27 Aug 2018 and 15 Sep 2018
"Our trip was absolutely outstanding in every way. We didn't want to leave and we are already planning our next visit. From picking up our hire car at Windhoek airport to our last stop in Okonjima the whole trip ran smoothly and without a single hitch. Self-driving was a dream - much more relaxing than driving in the UK/Europe. The landscape and wildlife are stunning.
The advice we received at Expert Africa was second to none and Tom always allowed us as much time as we wanted to ask numerous questions; we never felt rushed into making a decision. We'd have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Expert Africa to friends and family.
The highlights of our trip were, without question: (i) our stay at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge - we can't wait to go back there; (ii) the rich and diverse wildlife we saw from our base in Namutoni, Etosha; (iii) our stay at Okonjima Bush Camp. On reflection we wouldn't return to Okaukuejo Camp - sadly the accommodation is in need of an upgrade.
In short, 'out of this world'." Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 19 on a Namibia trip
The advice we received at Expert Africa was second to none and Tom always allowed us as much time as we wanted to ask numerous questions; we never felt rushed into making a decision. We'd have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Expert Africa to friends and family.
The highlights of our trip were, without question: (i) our stay at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge - we can't wait to go back there; (ii) the rich and diverse wildlife we saw from our base in Namutoni, Etosha; (iii) our stay at Okonjima Bush Camp. On reflection we wouldn't return to Okaukuejo Camp - sadly the accommodation is in need of an upgrade.
In short, 'out of this world'." Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 19 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
Mrs C
W Sussex
"Our 2nd trip to Namibia - no disappointments"
I visited Namibia between 26 Aug 2018 and 13 Sep 2018
"Apart form the problems with the hire-vehicle, we would thoroughly recommend this itinerary for its selection of excellent, if different, lodges in varied environments. The standards of service, excellent food and wines, friendly staff and knowledgable guides were beyond reproach. We rated the Safarihoek Lodge, Etosha Heights as the most luxurious accommodation with wildlife to match in its large reserve, previously a hunting farm. As with all our previous trips with Expert Africa, everything ran very smoothly.
Since our last visit in 2013, the condition of some of the gravel roads has deteriorated quite a lot, and we noted that most other guests at our lodges were driving the Toyota Hilux , a much tougher vehicle that our X-trail. We only met one grader this time and the road approaching Spitzkoppen Lodge and the road from there to Uis were particularly bad. Money (Chinese?) seems to be being spent in upgrading the tarred roads on which we travelled, most of which had already adequate surfaces.
Although you quoted for flights when we enquired, you did point out that we might get better rates elsewhere. We thank you for that, as we were able to fly from Southampton (25 miles from us) to Windhoek via Schipol with KLM for a very reasonable price, without the hassles of transit at Jo'burg - thankyou." Read full review: 18 nights in Africa; 16 on a Namibia trip
Since our last visit in 2013, the condition of some of the gravel roads has deteriorated quite a lot, and we noted that most other guests at our lodges were driving the Toyota Hilux , a much tougher vehicle that our X-trail. We only met one grader this time and the road approaching Spitzkoppen Lodge and the road from there to Uis were particularly bad. Money (Chinese?) seems to be being spent in upgrading the tarred roads on which we travelled, most of which had already adequate surfaces.
Although you quoted for flights when we enquired, you did point out that we might get better rates elsewhere. We thank you for that, as we were able to fly from Southampton (25 miles from us) to Windhoek via Schipol with KLM for a very reasonable price, without the hassles of transit at Jo'burg - thankyou." Read full review: 18 nights in Africa; 16 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
Mr & Mrs F
California
"Namibia Zambia"
I visited Namibia and 1 other country between 26 Aug 2018 and 17 Sep 2018
"Fabulous trip. So diverse.
In Namibia, very long drives between locations, 6-7 hours per day over corrugated roads." Read full review: 22 nights in Africa; 12 on a Namibia trip
In Namibia, very long drives between locations, 6-7 hours per day over corrugated roads." Read full review: 22 nights in Africa; 12 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
Ms D
Ireland
"Namibia and Zambia August to September 18"
I visited Namibia and 1 other country between 18 Aug 2018 and 6 Sep 2018
"Thank you Megan - Expert Africa - for your great recommendations based on my preferences. As usual, Expert Africa provides a very professional service in preparing your trip and gives detailed information on all aspects. As a result, I had another amazing holiday, where all went smoothly, allowing me to make the most of it!
In Namibia, I found Sossusvlei and Damaraland stunningly beautiful and photogenic. Ongava/Etosha proved rich in wildlife and the highlight for me was definitely the tracking of Rhinos on foot.
I was delighted to finish my trip in Lower Zambezi, Zambia for the excellent wildlife sightings at Old Mondoro .. I returned to Chongwe River Camp for the 5th time and enjoyed every minute of my stay.. The location by the river is stunning, the team is incredibly welcoming and their attention to details made my last week perfect! I cant wait to return!" Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 9 on a Namibia trip
In Namibia, I found Sossusvlei and Damaraland stunningly beautiful and photogenic. Ongava/Etosha proved rich in wildlife and the highlight for me was definitely the tracking of Rhinos on foot.
I was delighted to finish my trip in Lower Zambezi, Zambia for the excellent wildlife sightings at Old Mondoro .. I returned to Chongwe River Camp for the 5th time and enjoyed every minute of my stay.. The location by the river is stunning, the team is incredibly welcoming and their attention to details made my last week perfect! I cant wait to return!" Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 9 on a Namibia trip
Overall trip
Excellent
1130
reviews of Damaraland by travellers since August 2007
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Inspire meWhere to stay in Damaraland
Our suggestions for safari camps in Damaraland
Doro Nawas
Comfortable rooms and a convenient location make the community run Doro Nawas a great base for exploring Damaraland.
Mowani Mountain Camp
Mowani is a beautiful and stylish mountain retreat in southern Damaraland; it makes a great base for visits toTwyfelfontein.
Damaraland Camp
Setting the standard for community partnerships, Damaraland Camp offers a beautiful location, a range of activities – and a genuine welcome.
Camp Kipwe
With unusual, igloo-like rooms, open-air bathrooms and beautiful scenery, Camp Kipwe is well placed for nature and cultural excursions.
Desert Rhino Camp
Desert Rhino Camp offers a rare opportunity to track black rhino on foot in one of the last true wilderness areas – an amazing experience.
Etendeka Camp
Etendeka is an owner-run camp in the remote and less visited north of Damaraland. The camp is renowned for it's spectacular guided walking trails.
Grootberg Lodge
On the edge of an ancient plateau Grootberg Lodge has a stunning location and arguably the best views of any lodge in Namibia.
Twyfelfontein C'try Lod.
A large lodge set among the rocks, Twyfelfontein Country Lodge is a convenient base for visiting the rock engravings, which are only 4km away.
Spitzkoppen Lodge
Spitzkoppen Lodge provides stylish accommodation in an area of scenic grandeur with guided access to sites of ancient Bushman rock art.
Palmwag Lodge
Palmwag Lodge has a great location by a spring in the Uniab River and offers access to an area where you can see a variety of desert-dwelling animals.
Huab Lodge
Huab is a classic little Namibian Lodge which is slightly off the beaten track in a lesser visited part of Damaraland.
Brandberg White Lady
Brandberg White Lady Lodge, nestled at the foot of its namesake, makes a good base from which to visit bushman rock paintings including the 'White Lady'.
Vingerklip Lodge
Vingerklip Lodge occupies a lovely location, but is a little too far east for guests to visit Damaraland's main attractions.
Onduli Ridge
Onduli Ridge is a luxurious, low-impact luxury camp offering top-notch guiding in a remote wilderness area of Damaraland.
Khowarib Lodge
Khowarib Lodge has a great location overlooking the Hoanib River. This is one of the few places to offer authentic Himba village visits.
Etendeka Hiking Trail
The Etendeka Walking Trail promises to offer a back-to-basics walking and camping experience in one of Namibia's most remote and untouched wilderness areas.
Malansrus Camp
Within easy reach of Twyfelfontein, Malansrus offers a simple but comfortable base for visits to the rock engravings or seek out desert-adapted elephants.
Ozondjou Trails
The simple Ozondjou Trails gives a unique perspective on living with Damaraland’s desert-adapted elephants and how tourism is key to protecting them and the livelihood of the people.
Palmwag Sleep-out
Palmwag Sleep-out is a simple camping experience and a great way to enjoy the remote beauty of the vast Palmwag Concession
Camp Doros
Small, intimate and with excellent eco-credentials, Camp Doros is set above an ephemeral river within a remote community concession of Damaraland.
Sorris Sorris Lodge
Overlooking the Brandberg Massif, Sorris Sorris is probably the most luxurious lodge in southern Damaraland.
