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Serra Cafema

Our rating

9/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Stunning, remote location
- Spacious, well-appointed accommodation
- Quad-biking excursions
- Cultural visits

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Overview

Serra Cafema is a luxurious tented camp nestled on the banks of the Kunene River in Hartmann’s Valley, north-west Namibia. This remote, rugged location offers a unique combination of verdant, shady oasis flanked by one of the most arid deserts on earth.

The river is the main source of water for much of the area's bird and wildlife, and attracts an impressive population of Nile crocodiles along with herds of gemsbok, springbok, and zebra. Baboons and oryx are regular sightings, with occasional glimpses of the elusive African wildcat. Serra Cafema is accessible by air, with flight connections available from Windhoek to the airstrip approximately half an hour’s drive from camp.

Constructed on raised boardwalks, the camp’s thatched main area, or ‘ozonganda’, is shaded by trees and comfortably furnished. Guest areas, all with river views, comprise a modest pool, and indoor and outdoor dining areas with individual tables. There is also a library, gift shop and a lounge with bar. The camp runs predominantly on solar power, and its owners participate in local conservation projects.

The wide range of activities on offer include vehicle safari, boating trips (water levels permitting), birdwatching, and guided walks into the vast Hartmann’s Valley, famed for its unique rock formations. Guided quad-biking safaris within the isolated sand dunes are an exhilarating experience. Cultural visits to the semi-nomadic Himba community allow guests an authentic glimpse into local traditions and ways of life. While vehicle safari usually involves sharing transport, it is possible to book private vehicles and guides in advance, subject to additional cost.

The camp’s accommodation comprises eight spacious, well-appointed villas raised on wooden decks, including one family unit. Constructed from canvas and thatch, each villa has either one double or two single beds with mosquito net, lounge area with ceiling fan, and safe. All have an ensuite bathroom with shower, twin basins and flush toilet, and a private veranda affording stunning views across the river to the Angolan border.

Children are welcome at Serra Cafema. The generous family unit accommodates four guests in two adjoining rooms with an ensuite bathroom. As the camp is unfenced, Serra Cafema is recommended for families with older children, and adult supervision is essential at all times.

Serra Cafema provides a luxurious retreat in an untouched, secluded environment, and will suit travellers seeking adventures in one of the world’s last remaining wildernesses.

What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 536 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • Trip was great and all the arrangements were excellent so thank you for all the help!

    Drivers and transfers were all good - on time and very good service on each trip.

    Accommodation was lovely - Douar Samra was amazing (weather could have been better but lovely regardless). Riad in Marrakesh was also great!

    All in all a great trip and we loved the variety of the mountains, Marrakesh and the coast.

    Thanks you once again!

    MissingHardeep S reviewing Boutique Marrakech & Atlas Mountains on 15 April 2024

  • 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

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