Palmwag Lodge

Set deep in Damaraland’s rugged northwest, Palmwag Lodge looks over rolling, ochre hills dotted with euphorbia and tall makalani palms. Wildlife disperses along ephemeral rivers and open plains, where long views make spotting rewarding year-round. Overland access from Swakopmund is about 5½ hours (a little over 4 hours from Etosha’s Andersson Gate), so most itineraries pair Palmwag with Etosha or the Skeleton Coast. The lodge’s remote position delivers a genuine wilderness feel between activities, with fiery sunsets, wide horizons and a hush that’s ideal for stargazing after dinner.

Twenty upgraded, air-conditioned units include standard and comfort twins plus two family options. Interiors are calm and practical, using light tones and natural textures; all are en-suite with walk-in showers, and some add extra lounging space for lazy midday breaks. Private sitting areas face palms and open country, perfect for first coffee or an after-drive sundowner. Thoughtful touches—ample storage, charging points, mosquito protection—keep stays comfortable without distracting from the wild setting, making the rooms a reliable base for early starts and long days out on the concession.

A spacious central hub blends lounge, bar and restaurant, flowing to a shaded deck and a large pool for midday cool-offs. Wi-Fi is available in main areas, and a small curio shop stocks essentials and local crafts. Guided activities are the focus: rhino-tracking with specialist guides, full-day drives that reach remote valleys, and shorter walks close to camp. The team can arrange cultural visits and Twyfelfontein rock engravings for history-rich add-ons. Evenings settle into an easy rhythm—sunset on the deck, dinner under thatch or stars, then quiet skies blazing with constellations. There is also a filling station.