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Doro Nawas

Our rating

8/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Spectacular setting with amazing views
- Easy access to rock art at Twyfelfontein
- A chance to see desert-adapted elephant
- Game drives and cultural interaction

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Overview

Doro Nawas Camp sits amidst break-taking scenery in the dry Aba-Huab River Valley within the Doro Nawas Conservancy in central Damaraland, north-western Namibia. Jutting out from the rocky hillside, this striking fortress boasts spectacular vistas of the flat-topped Etendeka Mountains to the north, and the red sandstone cliffs of Twyfelfontein to the south. The road to the camp is long and often bumpy so it’s usually best to arrive by air, but however you get there, the rugged beauty of this dramatic landscape makes it worth the ride. This fascinating landscape is home to desert-adapted elephant, gemsbok, springbok, ostrich, black rhino, and baboons, along with excellent examples of endemic Namibian birdlife.

Although the main building’s exterior may seem initially imposing, once inside guests are greeted by an atmosphere of tremendous warmth and hospitality. All staff are from surrounding villages, and are keen to share their traditional songs and stories, providing real insight into local culture. The camp exists as a successful tripartite venture between Wilderness Safaris, a Namibian empowerment company, and the Doro Nawas community, a project that supports the local economy through sustainable eco-tourism.

The camp’s stylish main areas consist of a dining room and lounge with tasteful exposed wooden beams and stone floors. The minimalist décor is designed so as not to detract from the splendid landscape which is visible through the 360° glass panels and door. The bar and swimming pool are also privy to the fabulous views, not to mention the roof terrace, which provides an excellent setting for sundowner drinks, meals, and star-gazing. Vegetarian options are available in the restaurant, and supper is served in a communal dining style either in the long dining room or on the veranda outside. On some evenings a bush BBQ may be offered. At the centre of the main area, an open-air courtyard features a fire-pit and comfortable bean bag chairs. There is no WiFi, although internet access is available via a communal computer in the reception.

Doro Nawas camp provides an excellent base from which to explore the local vicinity. The ancient Twyfelfontein rock art engravings are within easy reach, and can be explored independently or with a local guide. Game drives with expert guides around the Aba-Huab and Haub riverbeds in search of the elusive desert-adapted elephants are well worth doing, with potential sightings of gemsbok, springbok, bat-eared fox, ostriches, baboons, black rhino and perhaps even cheetah along the way. Note that this is not a pure wilderness area, so vehicles from other lodges, local villages, and farms will be encountered when out on safari. Nature trails around the property are also offered, along with night time scorpion trails.

The accommodation comprises 16 thatch-roofed chalets located downhill from the main lodge. There are 12 twin bedded units, 3 double units, and one family unit. A combination of stone and canvas walls allow the units to blend seamlessly into the hillside, with reed panels at each side of the veranda providing some privacy. All units are spacious and open plan, featuring an en-suite bathroom with outdoor shower. Guests are encouraged to collect excess shower water for recycling, maintaining the eco-friendly approach essential in such a dry environment. On the plus side, the aridity renders mosquito nets unnecessary, and stone floors and a ceiling fan keep the units nice and cool. The décor is simple but stylish and every room contains a writing desk, tea and coffee facilities, padded wicker chairs, a safety deposit box, and beds which can be wheeled out onto the veranda should guests wish to sleep beneath the stars.

Children of all ages are welcome, and there is a family unit which sleeps 4. Although there is no dedicated children’s programme, younger family members can enjoy the pool and nature walks, and babysitting can be arranged on request. Note, however, that babysitters will be local members of staff and not professionally trained in childcare. At certain times of the year elephant can get very close to camp, so children will need to remain under close supervision at all times.

Doro Nawas is a pristine and comfortable camp set in striking surroundings with a particularly welcoming feel, ideal for adventurous travellers seeking a certain level of cultural interaction and a good range of desert activities.

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What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • I was also just about to email you to thank you and the team for arranging yet again, another wonderful experience.

    Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.

    El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.

    Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.

    So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last

    MissingJuhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • We had the most amazing time. It exceeded all my hopes of what the trip would be. The guides, the hotels - everything was of such a wonderful quality. Thank you for organizing everything. I will absolutely recommend Tourdust and use you again.

    MissingClaudia L reviewing Luxury Desert Holiday on 11 January 2024

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