Deep in the Hartmann Valley of the northern part of Namibia known as Kaokaland is Serra Cafema, a remote camp that is accessible only by light aircraft and a 4x4 transfer across the Namib Desert. A true wilderness, the volcanic rocks, and soaring dunes make for a lunar ‘moonscape’ that delights visitors by being surprisingly alive with desert-adapted creatures like the Cape fox, horned adders, and long-billed larks. Their lifeblood is the Kunene River that forms the border between Angola and Namibia, and that also provides spectacular views from the eight tents at Serra Cafema.

Set among albida trees, Serra Cafema will appeal to safari veterans and lovers of the desert who enjoy setting out on quad bikes to spot Ruppell’s korhaans or scimitar-horned oryx. Or hiking in the Marienfluss Mountains looking for Namaqua chameleons and getting a bird’s eye view of the deserted fabled ‘fairy circles’, bizarre circular spots of barren land that form a dappled pattern on the sand. Toast the evening with a river cruise that ferries you to the Angolan side to enjoy sundowners before making your way back for a private dinner in Serra Cafema’s wine cellar.

For a truly off-the-beaten-track safari that provides unforgettable accommodation and memorable experiences, Serra Cafema is considered one of Namibia’s flagship desert lodges.

Highlights

• Exclusive-use & secluded honeymoon suite
• Himba cultural interaction
• Quad biking in the Namib Desert
• Boating on the Kunene River
• Awe-inspiring ‘lunar’ landscape
• Plunge pool

Activities

• BOAT EXCURSIONS
• DUNE WALKS & DRIVES
• FULL-DAY SAFARIS
• HIKING
• PICNICS
• QUAD-BIKING
• RIVER CRUISES
• NATURE DRIVES

Rooms

Standard Double Tent

EditSerra Cafema Camp offers raw luxury in true seclusion. Thatch-roofed tents hug the banks of the Kunene River and are raised off the ground on wooden platforms.

Each of the cool and spacious suites includes a sleeping and sitting area that opens onto an expansive wooden verandah with a dining area, a hammock, and a comfortable bench with breathtaking views of the river. Each tent is equipped with en suite bathroom facilities as well as an additional outdoor shower with excellent views – a shower to remember!

Other room types:

To ensure total seclusion and privacy, the honeymoon suite can only be reached by a rope bridge and has arguably the best views at Serra Cafema.

Facilities

The emphasis at Serra Cafema is on the spectacular views and unique attractions of the Hartmann Valley and Kunene River. The ozoganda or main living area accommodates a sitting area and library with décor inspired by the local Himba people. The river bar offers scenic thirst-quenchers while the plunge pool offers relief from the sun-baked desert heat.

Dining

Delicious meals at Serra Cafema are served in the shaded dining area or out on the deck next to the flowing Kunene River. You can also feast on the private verandah of your tented chalet. Picnic lunches or intimate suppers in the wine cellar can also be arranged.