About Wolwedans Plains Camp
Built in a dune valley of the Namib Desert, within the vast NamibRand Nature Reserve, Wolwedans Plains Camp ...
... is only ever booked exclusively by one couple, family or small group at a time. It aims to offer a home away from home and privacy – and some might argue that it's the ultimate Namibian desert get-away.
Wolwedans Plains Camp offers the luxury of space, peace and privacy, all in a stunning setting and with very comfortable accommodation. For a family or small group of friends looking to 'get away from it all', this is a camp that should be high on your list.
Accommodation
3-bedroom villa
Children
Best for 4+
Open
Mid-Mar - mid-Dec
Activities
4WD Safari
Cultural excursion
Horse-riding
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Wolwedans Plains Camp
2 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 6 Jul 2024, 2 nights
"Wolwedans Plains Camp review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 19 Oct 2007, 1 nights
"Wolwedans Private Camp review"
Overall rating: Excellent



















Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 37 pictures of Wolwedans Plains Camp to get the candid view.
View galleryWolwedans Plains Camp: Our full report
Built in a dune valley of the Namib Desert, within the vast NamibRand Nature Reserve, Wolwedans Plains Camp ...
... is only ever booked exclusively by one couple, family or small group at a time. It aims to offer a home away from home and privacy – and some might argue that it's the ultimate Namibian desert get-away.
Formerly known as Wolwedans Private Camp, Plains Camp is similar in design to the other Wolwedans properties, Wolwedans Dune Camp, Wolwedans Boulders Camp and Wolwedans Desert Lodge.
The villa sleeps six guests in three en-suite bedrooms, with twin or double beds. If your party is bigger, or perhaps there are one or two children in the group, the Plains Camp's 'sala' can be converted into a makeshift bedroom, although this is slightly separate from the rest of the camp's buildings, and is not en-suite.
The design is open plan and the décor similar in style to the other Wolwedans properties, with antique furniture, old leather-bound books on the shelves and canvas sides that can be rolled up to allow uninterrupted views of the deep-orange sands. The villa's huge lounge is filled with sofas and comfortable chairs and leads out onto open decks with more seating for admiring the scenery. Slightly further from the main area is the 'sala' – a separate area with a large day bed and a great view, perfect for an afternoon siesta.The fully equipped kitchen is stocked with high-quality food and provisions catering for all dietary requirements, and if you don’t feel like cooking Wolwedans can provide you with your own private chef. As this is a private camp, there are no staff on site, but if you need anything help is just a radio call away.
A small plunge pool, overlooks the camp's small but prolific waterhole and is ideal for a cooling dip in the heat of the day. For those looking to swim lengths it is possible to arrange a vehicle for the 20–30-minute drive to Dunes Lodge, to use their pool.
Activities at the Plains Camp, as at the other Wolwedans camps, include guided scenic drives and nature walks to explore this vast reserve. These can be enjoyed either with your own private guide (at an extra charge for smaller groups of less than six, or families with young children), or together with guests at the other camps. Hot-air ballooning and scenic flights can also be arranged; ask our team for prices if these interest you.
Geographics
- Location
- NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- Two or three nights will allow you to make the most of the activities on offer and enjoy the stunning desert scenery. The camp also requests that guests stay for a minimum of two nights.
- Directions
- Wolwedans Plains Camp is located on the NamibRand Nature Reserve, which has its entrance on the C27, south of Sesriem. From the gate, it’s 20km to the reception farmhouse, where guests leave their vehicles. After checking in it's a short drive to the camp. Those arriving by air will be met at the airstrip, which is about a 20-minute drive from camp.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- We haven't dined at Plains Camp on our visits here. However, the stocked kitchen will usually include fresh greens and veggies from Wolwedans' organic garden at their base camp. For those opting to cook for themselves, meals and mealtimes can of course be really flexible – and you have the option of a private chef if you prefer not to cook.
- Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- House wines, soft drinks, local beers and spirits are included in the rate, but premium spirits, champagne, imported wines and premium brands are at extra cost.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- Set in a valley of the Namib Desert, the spacious, comfortable wooden villa of Wolwedans Plains Camp can sleep a family of six. Come here with children of all ages for scenic drives and walks during your Namibia family holiday.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Namibia
- Honeymoons
- For extra privacy, honeymooners can book Wolwedans Plains Camp for just themselves. The beautiful NamibRand desert landscapes combine with comfort and unobtrusive service to create a romantic hideaway, a stunning setting for your Namibia honeymoon.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Namibia
- Private villas & houses
- Relax and enjoy scenic drives and walks in Wolwedans Plains Camp in the Namib Desert. With your own private chef and private guide - on request - you can enjoy exclusive private holidays in Namibia for a family or group of up to four people.
- See ideas for Private villas & houses in Namibia
- Luxury
- Wolwedans Plains Camp is a sumptuous three-bedroom villa for exclusive use. A private chef and guide can be arranged to take care of your individual needs. This villa is ideal for those who want to spend a few days in pure private luxury.
- See ideas for Luxury in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome at Plains Camp, as your party will be the only ones staying here. However, because of age limits on activities at the other Wolwedans camps, families will not be able to join in shared activities. Hence the need to book private activities, at extra cost.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None.
- Special activities & services
- There are no special activities for children, but childminding can be arranged. Parents should be aware that childminders are not professionally trained or qualified.
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- We think the camp could be a great option for children, and their parents, who have an interest in nature. Its isolated and remote location also means that the whole family can really let their hair down, without worrying about disturbing other guests.
- Notes
- There are some dangerous game species present in the area, even if their densities in the Namib Desert are much lower than in many more conventional 'safari' areas. If using the pool at Dunes Lodge, parents should note that it is not fenced and there are steep drops from the deck. Children should remain under the supervision of their parents at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Wolwedans Plains Camp
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Wolwedans Plains Camp 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.

100% success

100% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are plug points for charging camera batteries. Don't forget to bring a suitable adaptor.
- Communications
- There is no cellphone reception, telephones or internet at Plains Camp. There is a telephone and WiFi available at the main reception building.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The showers in the three bathrooms are plumbed in, and each has a flushing toilet.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- The closest doctor is in the town of Mariental. In a medical emergency, guests would be evacuated by air to a hospital in Windhoek.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- Wolwedans Plains Camp is protected by its remote location, torches are provided at night.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are placed around the villa.
Activities
4WD Safari
Cultural excursion
Horse-riding
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is available at an extra charge.
- Money
- The camp does not offer a currency-exchange facility.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash (Namibian dollars and South African rands), as well as Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at Wolwedans.
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Wolwedans Plains Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Wolwedans Plains Camp.
Excursions from Wolwedans Plains Camp
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Wolwedans Plains Camp. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Ballooning in the Namib Desert
Half day, including breakfast
Ballooning over the world’s oldest desert is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Enjoy spectacular views as the sun rises over the dune-covered plains and rocky mountains of the Namib Desert. You may even spot the occasional oryx or black-backed jackal punctuating the landscape below.
More about Ballooning
Scenic flights in Namibia
Variable, depending on the flight
Namibia is famed for its stark beauty and boundless desert vistas and there is no better way to soak these in than from the air. A scenic flight gives you a unique perspective on this stunning and varied country, and may even provide a bird’s-eye view of areas that are out of reach to those restricted to terra firma.
More about Scenic flightsOther lodges in NamibRand Nature Reserve
Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Wolwedans Desert Lodge
Wolwedans Desert Lodge is a beautiful camp in a stunning setting on the NamibRand Reserve. Stay here for a luxurious escape into the wilderness.

Wolwedans Dune Camp
Small and intimate with excellent service and great guiding, Wolwedans Dune Camp is a luxurious escape in a beautiful location.

Tok Tokkie Trails
Escape the car and explore the spectacular Namib Desert on foot with an expert guide from Tok Tokkie Trails.

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is located on the NamibRand Reserve and offers a range of activities as well as high levels of comfort and service.

Kwessi Dunes
Kwessi Dune Lodge is a new property in the NamibRand Nature reserve promising to offer a luxurious stay in the wonderfully remote NamibRand Reserve.

Wolwedans Boulders
Hidden away in a remote corner of the NamibRand enjoy good food and attentive service at the exclusive Wolwedans Boulders Camp.
When to go to NamibRand Nature Reserve
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Wolwedans Plains Camp in NamibRand Nature Reserve
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Namibia in January
January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.
Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
- Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
- Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
- Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Namibia in February
February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.
Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
- The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Namibia in March
March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.
Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
- Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Namibia in April
Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.
With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.
- Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
- Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
- Migrant birds have started to leave
- Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Namibia in May
By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.
Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.
May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.
- Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
- The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
- Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
- Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
- Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Namibia in June
Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.
Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.
Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.
- Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
- Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
- “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
- Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
- Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Namibia in July
Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ºC/70ºF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.
As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).
- Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
- Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
- The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Namibia in August
August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.
It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.
Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.
- Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
- Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
- Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Namibia in September
September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.
In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.
- One of the best months for wildlife viewing
- Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
- Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
- Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
- High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Namibia in October
Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ºC/100ºF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.
In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.
- Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
- Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
- The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
- It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
- Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Namibia in November
November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.
Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.
- A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
- With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
- Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
- Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
- Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Namibia in December
December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!
Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.
Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.
- Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
- Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
- A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
- Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
- Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December

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