Damaraland
A remote and culturally-rich region home to Ancient San rock art
Overview
Damaraland safaris
Characterised by rocky escarpments, granite kopjes and burning red mountains, the Damaraland is a remote and sparsely populated region. With tourists few and far between, it is the perfect destination for families wanting to get off the beaten track.
Named for the Damara ethnic group which hail from this region, the Damaraland offers a unique mix of desert-adapted wildlife – sustained by ancient watercourses snaking through the landscape – and phenomenal rock art.
Home to a variety of wildlife, including critically endangered black rhinos, desert-adapted lions and elephants, as well as the full range of Namibia specialities such as gemsbok, zebra, giraffe and spotted hyena
The renowned ancient San bushmen artworks are a sight to behold and can be witnessed at various sites such as the Brandberg Mountain, Twyfelfontein and Spitzkoppe. The rock art is believed to date back 6,000 years, and it provides valuable insights into many aspects of the lives of indigenous hunter-gatherers in this area.
Overview
Damaraland safaris
Itinerary ideas
Suggested itineraries for Namibia safaris
Where is the Damaraland?
Nestled in the Kunene Region of north-west Namibia, Damaraland’s arid landscapes stretch from the Brandberg mountain’s dramatic massif to the imperial town of Sesfontein.
Traveller’s can opt for an internal flight from Windhoek, or take the scenic route driving from Swakopmund through the picturesque Erongo Region. As you get further inland you can witness the landscape constantly evolve from rugged mountains to arid plains and make pit stops at the fascinating imperial towns and rock arts sites along the way.
What to do in the Damaraland?
A haven away from the tourists, the Damaraland has enough range to keep the whole family simultaneously entertained and lost for words.
Renowned for its dramatic landscapes, marvel at the awe-inspiring Brandberg Mountain – the highest peak in Namibia – and take a guided tour to the infamous ‘White Lady’ rock painting deep in the mountain. And for more of an insight into ancient bushman culture, visit the 2,500 ancient San rock paintings at Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take a guided game drive along Damaraland’s seasonal river beds in the Aba-Huab Valley or Palmwag Concession to observe remarkable desert-adapted wildlife, including elusive desert elephants, black rhinos, and rare antelope species.
Active families can also visit the Spitzkoppe area, home to a group of ancient granite peaks, and popular with walkers and climbers.
Best time to visit?
The Damaraland can be visited all year round thanks to its consistently dry weather patterns.
For wildlife viewing the dry season from June to October are prime, as the animals tend to congregate around the remaining permanent water sources and are easier to find. This time of year is your best bet if you want to see the elusive black rhino.
Who should visit?
Families should consider the Damaraland as an extraordinary destination for a myriad of enriching experiences.
The region’s striking landscapes, including the renowned Brandberg Mountain and ancient rock engravings of Twyfelfontein, offer an educational adventure that can captivate the imagination of young explorers and their parents alike.
And thrilling safaris across the plains, with no other tourists in sight, are sure to appeal to adventurous families who want a truly authentic African safari experience in one of Southern Africa’s last truly wild landscapes.