Desert Rhino Camp

Desert Rhino Camp overview

Desert Rhino Camp is found in a remote wilderness area in the Palmwag concession which covers a huge area between the Skeleton Coast and Etosha.  This area is home to the largest population of free roaming black rhino in Africa, no small claim to fame. They are closely monitored and protected by Save the Rhino Trust who run this camp as a joint venture with Wilderness Safaris.

The camp itself lies in a wide valley dotted with rocky outcrops and bushes with a stunning backdrop of the Etendeka mountains. There are 8 meru-style canvas tents, each with an en-suite containing double basis, a flush loo and indoor shower. The front veranda gives you the opportunity to sit and take in the sweeping views in front.

The tents are linked to the main area by clear demarkated pathways.  There is a comfortable lounge and dining area which is partially elevated and is open-sided to the front to make the most of the spectacular views while you dine.  Evening meals may often be taken outside around the fire-pit under a beautiful starry sky, there's nothing quite like it.  There is a small pool area with loungers, the pool being refreshing and welcome during the midday heat.

As you would expect, activities here centre around the rhinos. A full briefing is given before heading out in the 4x4 vehicles in search of them, trackers will have set off early to scout and will radio in when they see anything.  Once they are found, you will be able to get closer to them on foot, although never too close, as these are wild animals.  Your guides are well trained and do know what they are doing.  It is an exhilarating experience to see rhinoceros in the wild and to have the opportunity to get within a few hundred metres while on foot is indescribable.  Do be aware that children under the age of 16 cannot track the rhinos on foot. Perhaps surprisingly this area is home to a surprising wealth of arid-adapted wildlife. You may be very lucky and see desert lion, cheetah and leopard but you are more likely to see Hartsmann's zebra, gemsbok, springbok, brown and spotted hyeana and elephant.