Where to Camp in Namibia: The Ultimate Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

Namibia: A Land of Endless Horizons and Unspoiled Wilderness

When you think of Namibia, you probably think of vast, open spaces, towering sand dunes, and incredible wildlife. And you’d be right! Namibia is a land of endless horizons and unspoiled wilderness, and it’s the perfect place to go camping.

There are countless places to camp in Namibia, each with its own unique charm. You can camp in the Namib Desert, under the stars on the Skeleton Coast, or in the lush rainforests of the Caprivi Strip. No matter where you choose to camp, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best places to camp in Namibia. We’ll also provide tips on how to plan your trip and make the most of your camping experience. So if you’re dreaming of an adventure in the African bush, read on!

| Campground | Location | Activities |
|—|—|—|
| Sossusvlei Desert Camp | Namib-Naukluft National Park | Hiking, sandboarding, stargazing |
| Etosha National Park Camp | Etosha National Park | Game drives, wildlife viewing, fishing |
| Skeleton Coast Camp | Skeleton Coast National Park | Seal watching, hiking, kayaking |
| Kulala Desert Lodge | Namib-Naukluft National Park | Luxury camping, stargazing, bush dinners |
| Tsodilo Hills Camp | Tsodilo Hills World Heritage Site | Rock art, hiking, cultural tours |

Best Time to Camp in Namibia

Namibia is a beautiful country with a wide variety of landscapes, from the Namib Desert to the lush rainforests of the Caprivi Strip. The best time to camp in Namibia depends on what you want to see and do.

The dry season, from April to October, is the most popular time to camp in Namibia. The weather is warm and sunny, with clear skies and little rain. This is the best time to visit the Namib Desert, where you can see the famous sand dunes and wildlife. It is also a good time to visit the Etosha National Park, where you can see a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and giraffes.

The wet season, from November to March, is also a good time to camp in Namibia. The weather is cooler and more humid, with more rain. This is the best time to visit the Caprivi Strip, where you can see lush rainforests, waterfalls, and wildlife. It is also a good time to visit the Skeleton Coast, where you can see shipwrecks and other relics from the past.

Ultimately, the best time to camp in Namibia depends on your personal preferences. If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to go is during the shoulder seasons, from April to May and from September to October.

Top Campgrounds in Namibia

There are many great campgrounds in Namibia, each with its own unique features. Here are a few of the best:

  • Sossusvlei Campsite in the Namib-Naukluft National Park is located in the heart of the Namib Desert. This campground offers stunning views of the sand dunes and is a great place to see wildlife, such as oryx, springboks, and meerkats.
  • Etosha National Park Campsites in Etosha National Park offer a variety of camping options, from basic campsites to luxury lodges. This park is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and giraffes.
  • Caprivi Strip Campsites in the Caprivi Strip offer a chance to experience the lush rainforests, waterfalls, and wildlife of this region. This is a great place to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
  • Skeleton Coast Campsites along the Skeleton Coast offer a chance to see shipwrecks and other relics from the past. This is a remote and desolate region, but it is also a beautiful and fascinating place to visit.

No matter what your interests are, you are sure to find a great campground in Namibia. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of this amazing country!

Camping Gear and Supplies

Camping in Namibia can be a great way to experience the country’s natural beauty and wildlife. However, it’s important to make sure you have the right gear and supplies to stay safe and comfortable.

Here is a list of essential camping gear and supplies for Namibia:

  • Tent

A tent is essential for providing shelter from the sun, wind, and rain. When choosing a tent, consider the size of your group, the climate you’ll be camping in, and the type of terrain you’ll be camping on.

  • Sleeping bag

A sleeping bag is essential for keeping warm at night. When choosing a sleeping bag, consider the climate you’ll be camping in and your personal warmth needs.

  • Mattress

A mattress can help you sleep more comfortably on the ground. When choosing a mattress, consider the size of your tent and your personal comfort needs.

  • Sleeping pad

A sleeping pad can help insulate you from the cold ground and provide extra comfort. When choosing a sleeping pad, consider the thickness, weight, and warmth of the pad.

  • Stove

A stove is essential for cooking food and boiling water. When choosing a stove, consider the type of fuel you’ll be using, the size of your group, and the amount of cooking you’ll be doing.

  • Cookware

Cookware is essential for preparing meals. When choosing cookware, consider the size of your group, the type of meals you’ll be cooking, and the weight and durability of the cookware.

  • Utensils

Utensils are essential for eating and cooking. When choosing utensils, consider the number of people in your group and the type of meals you’ll be eating.

  • Plates and bowls

Plates and bowls are essential for eating meals. When choosing plates and bowls, consider the number of people in your group and the type of meals you’ll be eating.

  • Cups

Cups are essential for drinking water and other beverages. When choosing cups, consider the number of people in your group and the type of beverages you’ll be drinking.

  • Water filter

A water filter is essential for filtering water from streams and rivers. When choosing a water filter, consider the type of filter, the flow rate, and the weight of the filter.

  • First aid kit

A first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries. When choosing a first aid kit, consider the size of your group and the activities you’ll be doing.

  • Flashlight

A flashlight is essential for providing light at night. When choosing a flashlight, consider the brightness, the battery life, and the size of the flashlight.

  • Knife

A knife is essential for a variety of tasks, including cutting food, opening packages, and starting fires. When choosing a knife, consider the size, the blade type, and the weight of the knife.

  • Multi-tool

A multi-tool is a handy tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including cutting, tightening screws, and opening bottles. When choosing a multi-tool, consider the number of tools, the size of the tool, and the weight of the tool.

  • Hat

A hat is essential for protecting your head from the sun. When choosing a hat, consider the size, the shape, and the material of the hat.

  • Sunglasses

Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from the sun. When choosing sunglasses, consider the size, the shape, and the tint of the sunglasses.

  • Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the sun. When choosing sunscreen, consider the SPF rating, the water resistance, and the type of sunscreen.

  • Bug spray

Bug spray is essential for protecting yourself from insects. When choosing bug spray, consider the active ingredient, the concentration of the active ingredient, and the duration of the protection.

  • Trash bags

Trash bags are essential for keeping your campsite clean. When choosing trash bags, consider the size of the bags and the strength of the bags.

  • Firewood

Firewood is essential for starting and maintaining a campfire. When choosing firewood, consider the type of wood, the size of the wood, and the moisture content of the wood.

  • Matches or lighter

Matches or a lighter are essential for starting a campfire. When choosing matches or a lighter, consider the type of matches or lighter and the number of matches or lighters.

* **Camping

Where are the best places to camp in Namibia?

  • Sossusvlei: This is one of the most popular camping destinations in Namibia, and for good reason. Sossusvlei is home to some of the tallest sand dunes in the world, as well as the Deadvlei, a dried-up salt pan surrounded by towering dunes. There are several campsites in Sossusvlei, ranging from basic to luxurious.
  • Etosha National Park: Etosha is Namibia’s largest national park, and it offers a wide variety of camping options. You can camp in the park’s campgrounds, which offer basic facilities such as toilets and showers, or you can go on a camping safari, where you’ll be taken to remote areas of the park and set up camp in the bush.
  • Skeleton Coast: The Skeleton Coast is a rugged and remote stretch of coastline that is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and whales. There are a few campsites along the Skeleton Coast, but they are basic and only accessible by 4WD.
  • Fish River Canyon: The Fish River Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the world, and it is a popular destination for hiking and camping. There are a few campsites in the canyon, as well as a number of lodges and hotels.

What do I need to bring when camping in Namibia?

When camping in Namibia, you will need to bring a variety of items, including:

  • A tent
  • Sleeping bags
  • Warm clothes (even in summer, the nights can get cold)
  • A cooking stove and fuel
  • Food and water
  • A first-aid kit
  • A flashlight
  • A map and compass
  • A sunhat and sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • A camera

What are the best times to go camping in Namibia?

The best times to go camping in Namibia are during the winter months (May to September). The weather is cooler and drier, and there is less chance of rain. However, it is important to note that the days are shorter during the winter, so you will need to pack accordingly.

Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of when camping in Namibia?

Yes, there are a few safety concerns you should be aware of when camping in Namibia. These include:

  • Wild animals: Namibia is home to a variety of wild animals, including lions, elephants, and hyenas. It is important to be aware of these animals and to take precautions to avoid them.
  • Sandstorms: Namibia is prone to sandstorms, which can be dangerous. If you are caught in a sandstorm, it is important to seek shelter and to cover your mouth and nose to prevent breathing in the sand.
  • Heatstroke: Namibia can be very hot, especially during the summer months. It is important to drink plenty of water and to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.

What are some of the best camping experiences in Namibia?

Some of the best camping experiences in Namibia include:

  • Camping in the Namib Desert: Camping in the Namib Desert is a truly unique experience. You will have the chance to see some of the world’s tallest sand dunes, as well as the Deadvlei, a dried-up salt pan surrounded by towering dunes.
  • Camping in Etosha National Park: Etosha is Namibia’s largest national park, and it offers a wide variety of camping options. You can camp in the park’s campgrounds, which offer basic facilities such as toilets and showers, or you can go on a camping safari, where you’ll be taken to remote areas of the park and set up camp in the bush.
  • Camping on the Skeleton Coast: The Skeleton Coast is a rugged and remote stretch of coastline that is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and whales. There are a few campsites along the Skeleton Coast, but they are basic and only accessible by 4WD.
  • Camping in the Fish River Canyon: The Fish River Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the world, and it is a popular destination for hiking and camping. There are a few campsites in the canyon, as well as a number of lodges and hotels.

    Namibia is a vast and beautiful country with a wide variety of landscapes to offer. Whether you’re looking for desert dunes, coastal cliffs, or lush mountains, you’ll find it in Namibia. And with so many different camping options available, you’re sure to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

When choosing a campsite, it’s important to consider the climate, the terrain, and the facilities that are available. If you’re planning on camping in the desert, for example, you’ll need to make sure you have plenty of water and shade. And if you’re camping in the mountains, you’ll need to be prepared for cold weather and snow.

No matter where you choose to camp in Namibia, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Namibian camping adventure today!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.