Damaraland’s Granite-Boulder Hideaway for Desert Adventure
Camp Kipwe rests among the burnt-orange boulders of Damaraland, minutes from UNESCO-listed Twyfelfontein. This intimate lodge blends rock-and-thatch architecture with modern comforts and a front-row seat to stark desert beauty. Days revolve around nature drives in search of desert-adapted wildlife, guided walks along the Aba Huab River, and excursions to the Organ Pipes and Brandberg. Evenings bring stargazing of crystal-clear southern skies and sundowners beside the pool carved into the granite. It’s a characterful, boutique base for exploring Namibia’s most evocative landscapes.
Price Per Person Sharing From:
From: POA
Rating | Luxury
Highlights & What to Expect
- Unique setting built among enormous granite boulders typical of Damaraland, creating natural privacy and views.
- Daily excursions to Twyfelfontein rock engravings, the Organ Pipes, and Brandberg for archaeology and geology highlights.
- Nature drives focused on desert ecology with chances to encounter desert-adapted wildlife, including elephants.
- Guided access to the famous White Lady rock art, the Organ Pipes, and Brandberg for archaeology and geology highlights.
- Pool and deck areas positioned for dramatic sunsets and Milky Way stargazing on clear desert nights.
- Compact lodge footprint and attentive team deliver a relaxed, boutique atmosphere with thoughtful service.
Location & Setting
Camp Kipwe is set near Twyfelfontein in northern Namibia’s Damaraland, a landscape of weathered granite inselbergs, sandy riverbeds, and wide desert skies. The lodge sits a short drive from the UNESCO World Heritage rock engravings and the Organ Pipes basalt formations, making sightseeing effortless. Access is by self-drive—around four hours from Swakopmund—or by light aircraft to the Twyfelfontein airstrip with road transfer onward. The nearest town is Khorixas, roughly 80 minutes away. From the property’s elevated nooks you can scan the Aba Huab valley, watch shifting light on the boulders, and appreciate Damaraland’s quiet, rugged grandeur.
Rooms
Accommodation comprises 9 rock-and-thatch Bungalows and 3 Luxury Suites designed to merge with the boulder fields. All are en suite, but only the Luxury Suites include air-conditioning, a private lounge, and a minibar. Storage, bedside charging, and tea/coffee facilities cover essentials, and large windows frame ochre-toned views. Mini-suites add extra space and more expansive decks for lingering between activities. The overall feel is intimate and eco-sensitive rather than opulent—ideal for travelers who value character and setting.
Facilities
The heart of Camp Kipwe is a cozy central lounge and dining area carved into the rocks, leading to a petite swimming pool—a welcome oasis in summer. Meals emphasize fresh, hearty fare suited to active days, and sundowners are a highlight thanks to the lodge’s elevated viewpoints. Staff can arrange daily outings to nearby geological and cultural sites, plus nature drives and guided walks. While the footprint is intentionally small, service is attentive and flexible. Expect a boutique atmosphere rather than a resort: no spa or gym, but plenty of quiet corners, star-filled skies, and desert silence to unwind in.
Amenities
Airport Transfers
Bar & Lounge
Restaurant
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Wi-Fi
Laundry Service
In-room Safe
Minibar
Tea & Coffee
Mosquito Net
Private Plunge Pool
In-room TV
Outdoor Shower
Hair Dryer
Private Deck
Viewing Deck
Sustainable
Activities
Game Drives
Guided Nature Walks
Cultural Tours
Scenic Touring
Stargazing