Located in the extreme northern reaches of the country on the border with Angola, Serra Cafema Camp is one Namibia’s most beautiful and remote safari camps. It nestles at the end of the Hartmann Valley, on the banks of the Kunene River, a rare oasis in a region that is otherwise comprised largely of arid desert and harsh mountainous terrain (the camp takes its name from the Serra Cafema mountains). It shares the land with the local Himba people, among the last of Africa’s nomadic tribes.
Owned and managed by Wilderness Safaris, Serra Cafema is a very attractive camp—Wilderness Safaris have a reputation as southern Africa’s best luxury safari operator, and Serra Cafema is one of their flagship properties. In keeping with most of their camps, the design is stylish but not fussy. The public areas have been constructed from wood, stone and thatch, and incorporate a lounge and bar, outdoor dining deck, library, and small plunge pool. As with most Wilderness Safaris camps, there’s a modern sheen to Serra Cafema, visible in the contemporary lounge furniture, the glass-panel walls, and the polished aesthetic.
Many different activities are available from Serra Cafema Camp, allowing you to explore the surrounding landscape in a variety of ways. Game drives into the Namib Desert are a highlight, as is hiking in the remote mountain and river valleys. It should be noted that the game is fairly limited in this region – expect to see, among other things, ostrich, crocodile, springbok and gemsbok – with the striking scenery the real attraction.
Other activities include traversing the sand dunes on guided quad-bike excursions, as well as boating on the Kunene River. You can also visit a remote Himba settlement.
Accommodation
Serra Cafema Camp has just eight canvas and thatch chalets built on raised wooden decks, each with its own private verandah (complete with hammock!) overlooking the river. The chalets are spacious and beautifully furnished. Glass doors extend across the front of the units and open onto beautiful views. A curtain divides the bedroom and lounge from the bathroom, which comes with outdoor and indoor showers.
Dining
Meals are served inside the sheltered dining room or outside on the decks under the stars. The presentation is marvellous, as is true of most Wilderness camps. The menus are fixed and change daily, but the staff will always try to accommodate requests and special dietary requirements.
Facilities
- Swimming pool
- Dining room and bar
Activities
- Game drives in the Hartman valley or into the Namib Desert
- Boat trip on Kunene River
- Hiking
- Guided walks
- Quad biking
- Bird watching
- Fishing
- Flying safaris
Child Policy
The minimum age at Serra Cafema Camp is eight.
