Established
N/A (communal conservancy)
Size
4,800 km² (conservancies)
Elevation
500–1,500 m
Ecosystem
Semi-Arid Desert, Rocky Hills
Best Time
May – October
Entry Fee
Included in conservancy fees
About Damaraland
Damaraland is a dramatic landscape of ancient rock formations, petrified forests, and ephemeral riverbeds where desert-adapted elephants and black rhinoceros roam free. This communal conservancy region showcases Namibia's pioneering community conservation model, where local Damara and Herero communities manage wildlife and benefit directly from tourism. The area's geological wonders include Twyfelfontein (a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 6,000-year-old rock engravings), the Organ Pipes basalt columns, and the Petrified Forest. Tracking desert elephants along dry riverbeds and searching for rare desert-adapted black rhino on foot are among Africa's most extraordinary safari experiences.
What Makes It Special
Desert-adapted elephants
Desert black rhino
Twyfelfontein UNESCO rock art
Community conservancy model
Petrified Forest
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
MayJunJulAugSepOct
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
AprNov
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
DecJanFebMar
Where to Stay
Damaraland Camp
LuxuryWilderness Safaris community partnership camp with desert elephant tracking and stunning mountain views.
From $700/night / night
Mowani Mountain Camp
LuxuryNestled among giant granite boulders near Twyfelfontein with panoramic desert views.
From $500/night / night
Palmwag Lodge
Mid-RangeGateway lodge to the Palmwag Concession with rhino tracking and desert drives.
From $200/night / night
Safari Packages
4-Day Damaraland Desert Safari
Track desert elephants and black rhino in ancient Namibian landscapes
6-Day Damaraland, Etosha & Skeleton Coast
Namibia's three most diverse destinations in one epic journey