Reviews of Serra Cafema

"The contrasts at Serra Cafeema, definitely the most relaxed camp, and sensibly the last of the three, were obvious from the moment we arrived at the airstrip in the Hartmann Valley. In preparation for the hour plus drive to the camp we were greeted with champagne and nibbles at 11am in the morning to fortify us for the journey... However, having passed through the amazing contrasts of mountain and desert on the drive, some 2 kilometres from the camp the hazards of the terrain were graphically illustrated by the sight of the previous evening's supply lorry on its' side in deep sand as we passed it on a steep sand slope. Fortunately both drivers were unhurt.

Again, all the staff and our guide Anton were instrumental in making our stay a tremendous experience. We relaxed in the middle of the day, having walked with Anton observing the different plants and birds, and seeing myriad tracks and three baboons from a much larger troupe high on the cliffs above the river, or driven out to the Himba village. Both Kathy and I were concerned not to be intrusive, but with the help of translation we were able to have a conversation on a relatively equal footing, and caused amusement by our problems in sitting on/getting up from the sand and me playing with one of the children!

Late afternoon/early evening trips to revel in the light and scenery were equally stimulating, and Kathy managed to go quad biking with Anton, which she thoroughly enjoyed. I tried the practice circuit but my short stature meant my legs were dangling and not bracing me, plus my rheumatoid arthritis stopped me having any real capacity to manage the hand controls, so sense prevailed and I withdrew. The boat trips on the river were not available following the March rains but we enjoyed all the activities we were offered, and sitting looking at the morning or evening light, with Angola on the other side of the river." See all these reviews: 10n in Namibia

"lovely." See all these reviews: 5n in Namibia; 5n in Botswana; 2n in Zimbabwe

"Good location - 2-3 days probably long enough as limited activities but very comfortable and relaxing.

Not many crocodiles on the Cunene River" See all these reviews: 5n in Namibia; 5n in Botswana; 2n in Zimbabwe

"No tourists are currently allowed in Angola but here, in the remotest lodge in Southern Africa, Angola is about 100m away on the other side of the Kunene river, which, unlike anywhere else in N Namibia flows all year. So you get in a boat, have a look at the crocs, and get out on the other side to visit the Angolans trying to eke out a living from growing maize and tobacco in the sandy banks of the river.

This is a lovely lodge on the riverbank, supplies come in mainly by lorry from Windhoek which is a 2-3 day journey, so it is remarkable that they can produce such good and varied food with this sort of supply chain. There are two highlights: the flight up and back over some of the most beautiful, multicoloured, remote and barren land as you could expect anywhere in the world, and the visit to the Himba village to see a nomadic tribe surviving in such a hostile land and in a way which is broadly unchanged over the centuries. Unmissable. Also more opportunity for quad biking, both on rocky and sandy terrain, and some walking possible. Don't come here to see animals as there are none, except a few baboon. But the flight/scenery alone is more than ample justification.

There is a small swimming pool, and when we were there it was very windy a lot of the time, so much less hot than we had expected. We ate out outside almost always but the more wimpy guests took to the indoor space which is perhaps a little gloomy. Staff extremely friendly and efficient." See all these reviews: 17n in Namibia

"We saved the best till last ! We booked Serra Cafema for our last three nights to rest before our journey home. It is a wonderful property that has some superb touches. The rooms are by far the largest of our whole trip with a very large lounge and exceptional views.

Our laundry was done and returned daily and apart from one cloudy day we did have hot water (not sure how they cope with several cloudy days?) the rooms are serviced three times a day which is a nice touch but when a bath towel is missing for a day and your told it’s because it’s been cloudy (surely at this price point they have extras especially as the lodge was not even half full) We wonder if they have become a little complacent ?

Our arrival food whilst fresh and looked lovely was not gluten free so I couldn’t eat it!! We waited in the transportation to the lodge whilst the two guides (@ the airport pick up hut) partook of the left overs …. Not for long but not sure it’s the right first impression.

Guessing that the other pre contact arrangement of a close cabin for My husband post op had also been omitted, we mentioned that upon arrival and once again the change needed to be made upon arrival!

Our guide was good but not exceptional and the food was delicious (although the BBQ night we felt was lacking)
There are some touching welcomes and drinks and the staff were amazing. The two new assistant managers were charming and very welcoming.

The Himba village trip was excellent although little cultural information was passed on. I was lucky I then was able to have a Himba driver (Ricardo who spoke excellent English and would make a fabulous guide) who shared with me some excellent information that filled the gap.

It is an amazing facility that is a must do if you have the opportunity….. we feel it just needs a little more attention to the detail that charm and smiles don’t necessarily make up for!" See all these reviews: 17n in Namibia

"After a magical stay, my husband and I cannot wait to return someday! From the moment we began our journey to the lodge and spotted the lush, green ribbon of foliage lining the river, we knew were in for a treat. It's impossible to adequately describe the otherworldly landscape of this region; you just have to experience it for yourself.

The lodge itself is beautifully appointed and perfectly situated along the Kunene River. Facing the river and Serra Cafema mountains, our cabin featured an expansive deck, where we would lounge each afternoon to enjoy the breeze and sounds of the river flowing. (The cabin did not have air conditioning, though we found it to be unnecessary during our stay.) And while difficult to compete with the incredible setting, the staff were the true stars of the show, going out of their way to make our stay and my birthday pure magic (with a surprise birthday party, complete with singing, a specially made chocolate cake, and champagne on the dunes!!!).

From stunning sunsets to adrenaline-rushing quad-biking and touching cultural experiences with the Himba, we had an incredible time with our guide Charlie. When the time came for us to sadly depart, we felt as though we were leaving close friends!

While slightly "off the beaten path" (which we loved!), we cannot recommend this lodge enough!" See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia

"Magical as always (my 2nd visit) - this is such a special location and camp. The staff makes it even more special. Hope to return again one day soon." See all these reviews: 8n in Namibia

"2 nights are enough...not a lot to do ...only boating on the river ...and quad...not so easy ...and no WIFI..." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia

"After recent floods Serra Cafema had to be rebuilt and had only been open three weeks before our arrival. It is spectacular! Raised walkways connect each thatch-roofed chalet to the main lodge. Our chalet overlooked the rapids along the Kunene River. Rooms are very large and include a large outdoor living and dining space and deck.

Food was outstanding and be prepared for dining surprises.

The pace here is slower than most safari camps and it is a perfect place to end your trip to Namibia. It is all about the scenery at this camp and the Himba people. The Hartmann Valley is wide and covered in grass. Jagged mountains and sand dunes ring the valley. Our visit to a Himba village was very enjoyable.

We appreciated the ability to tailor our activities at this camp. One morning we preferred to take a scenic drive rather than quad biking. Our guide, Limbo, was happy to accommodate our request." See all these reviews: 19n in Namibia

"By the time we got to this location, we appreciated the fact that the activities started a little bit later in the morning and that we had quite a bit of down time.

The visit to the Himba village was very interesting. The sand dunes in the afternoon sun is a beautiful sight.

The staff was very friendly and attentive." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia