Camp Kipwe, Namibia

A Unique Boulder Lodge in Central Damaraland

Camp Kipwe Is Nestled Around A Rocky Hill Close To Twyfelfontein In Central Damaraland.

Camp Kipwe is a comfortable, medium sized property built into the granite boulders of a small hill overlooking the Abu Huab river valley. The property is ideally located to access the famous rock engravings at nearby Twfelfontein, as well as to go in search of desert elephants that roam the Aba Huab and Huab Valleys. The camp is popular with self-drive guests and has a friendly feel, with special sunset drinks enjoyed each evening from the top of the hill above the lodge.

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Accommodation and Facilities

Rooms

Accommodation for around 24 guests is provided in nine igloo style bungalows and three suites, all of which are nestled amongst giant boulders. Each unit is simply but comfortably furnished and has air conditioning and a private outdoor bathroom built into the rocks with flush loo, basin and a shower. There is a verandah to the fore of the unit with views over the surrounding plains. Two of the standard units have an adjacent dome tent which is suitable for two children and these units also have the addition of a bath. The Kipwe suite has a separate lounge area and a larger verandah allowing for private dining and with a private plunge pool. The Kipwe Suite also has a bath. The two thatched Luxury Suites each have a large lounge, separate air-conditioned bedroom and ensuite bathroom. The large decks have a heated splash pool and private sala from where to enjoy the spectacular views – one suite faces east to enjoy the sunrise, while the second suite faces west for wonderful sunsets.

Central Areas

There is a spacious and comfortable thatched lounge/dining area and a small swimming pool and sun terrace. Please note that limited Wi-Fi is available in the central areas of the property and the Kipwe and Luxury Suites only (limited connection). Sunset drinks are served from a bar on top of the hill overlooking camp (a short walk from the main area).

Facilities

Wi-Fi – Yes
Power for Charging – Yes
Swimming – Yes

Area, Activities & Seasons

Habitat & Wildlife

Damaraland is one of Namibia’s most compelling wilderness regions, characterized by ancient geology and dramatic landscapes. Located in the north-west of the country, the region offers a mix of rugged mountain ranges, wide gravel plains and ephemeral river systems such as the Ugab, Huab and Hoanib, which only flow after rare seasonal rains. Basalt outcrops, flat-topped mesas, deep gorges, and broad sandy river valleys create a strikingly varied terrain, with colours shifting from pale desert sands to red ochres and dark volcanic stone.

Despite its arid conditions, the Aba Huab region supports an impressive range of desert-adapted wildlife. Desert elephants are one of the region’s most iconic species, uniquely adapted to survive in extreme heat with scarce water. They travel long distances along the dry Ugab, Huab and Aba Huab riverbeds, feeding on riverine vegetation and relying on an intimate knowledge of seasonal water sources. Other wildlife includes Hartmann’s mountain zebra, giraffe, oryx, springbok, klipspringer and a rich variety of birdlife.

Activities

Excursions available at the property include visits to Twyfelfontein and the other sites of the region – Burnt Mountain and the ‘Organ Pipes’ (these are usually undertaken in the afternoon), guided nature drives looking for desert elephants (usually a longer morning activity); and a visit to the Living Damara Museum where you can learn about the customs and traditional lifestyle of the Damara people. Excursions can be booked locally at the lodge or in advance of travel. Self-guided nature walks are also offered.

Seasons

Camp Kipwe is open all year. The best times to visit are late April to early November.

FAMILIES

Camp Kipwe is child friendly. Children under the age of 12 years can be accommodated on camp beds in their parents room. Children under the age of 6 years are not permitted on scheduled game drive activities unless a private vehicle is booked. Early dining arrangements can be made as well as special children’s food requests.

Conservation and Community

In addition to conservation efforts on their own conservancy, Mowani Mountain Camp supports the Desert Lion Project. This is a small non-profit organisation dedicated to the conservation of desert – adapted lions in the Northern Namib and at the Skeleton Coast. Their main focus is to collect important base-line ecological data on the lion population and to study their behaviour, biology and adaptation to survive in the harsh environment. They then use this information to collaborate with other conservation bodies in the quest to find a solution to human-lion conflict, to elevate the tourism value of lions, and to contribute to the conservation of the species.