Palmwag Lodge is located in a beautiful spot overlooking marsh, plains and mountains, on the banks of the Uniab River in north-western Damaraland. It is the gateway to the huge 450,000 hectare Palmwag Reserve, a private concession within the greater Damaraland, famous for its dramatic scenery and rare wildlife. Indeed, it is the surrounding reserve that makes Palmwag Lodge such a special destination. Home to a huge variety of game, including endangered species such as desert-adapted elephant and black rhino, this is undoubtedly one of Namibia's finest wilderness areas.
Palmwag Lodge is one of the oldest lodges in the Damaraland region, and it shows. Despite having been through several renovations, this homely lodge doesn't offer quite the same level of luxury as many of the more upmarket properties in the region. It is, nevertheless, a very comfortable lodge, with good facilities including two pools and a lovely restaurant.
Where Palmwag Lodge really excels is in the wildlife experience it offers. The Palmwag Reserve is just stunning, with its striking mountain and semi-desert scenery, and its unique wildlife. It is particularly famous for black rhino, housing an estimated 70% of the black rhino in the Damaraland region, which is itself home to the largest population of rhino found outside of a national park anywhere in Africa. The Save the Rhino Trust has its base in Palmwag.
There's a huge amount to do in the Palmwag Reserve. As well full and half-day game drives, you can take part in guided walking safaris, dedicated rhino tracking tours, Himba village excursions, and wild camping under the stars. Fly camping expeditions from Palmwag Reserve are also popular, with a number of fixed walking routes.
Accommodation
Palmwag Lodge offers 13 two/three bed thatched bungalows, five luxury en-suite tents and two eight bed family units. The standard cottages are located in the main area while the luxury tents are a few minutes’ walk away and therefore a little more private. The suites are large Meru tents with a great view from the balcony and en-suite facilities at the rear.
Palmwag Lodge also has a few camping areas on site, and it can often feel quite busy as a result, though you may welcome the more lively atmosphere.
Dining
Palmwag's large dining room has a bar and a spacious deck perfectly positioned to make the most of the wonderful sunset views. The thatched pool bar, situated under palm trees, offers light meals and drinks late into the evening.
Facilities
Two swimming pools
Open-plan lapa with restaurant, bar and lounge
Curio shop
Activities
There's a great range of activities available at Palmwag Lodge including daily morning and afternoon game drives as well as full day excursions. There are also easy hiking trails which let you discover the dramatic landscapes of Palmwag Reserve. Sleep outs are also possible, though must be booked in advance.
Many come to Palmwag to view the rare desert-adapted elephant and black rhino. Though sightings are not guaranteed, dedicated rhino and elephant tracking safaris, conducted so as not to disturb the animals, give you a good chance of getting close to these endangered species.
Child Policy
Children of all age are welcome at Palmwag Lodge. The relaxed atmosphere at the lodge makes it a great option for families travelling with children. There are two large family units with plenty of space and private plunge pools.
