Question 1

Can you look for desert elephants yourself?

Accepted Answer

Yes. From the campsite at White Lady Lodge, you can drive straight into the dry bed of the  Ugab River  . This is one of the areas where desert elephants are regularly spotted. However, it is important that you have experience driving in  deep, soft sand . Conditions can be quite challenging. Are you unsure? Then we recommend booking a guided elephant safari through the lodge. The local guides know exactly where the elephants are at that time.

Question 2

Why should I include Damaraland in my trip through Namibia?

Accepted Answer

Damaraland is one of Namibia’s most expansive, rugged and fascinating regions. Broad gravel roads wind through a prehistoric landscape of rugged mountains, dry riverbeds and endless, golden vistas. Although iconic places such as Spitzkoppe and the Brandberg rightly attract many visitors, Damaraland’s true charm lies in the hidden gems you discover as soon as you stray from the main route. It is the ultimate destination for travellers who love unexplored wilderness and challenging 4x4 driving.

Question 3

What is the best time to visit Damaraland?

Accepted Answer

The dry winter months of  May to September  are the absolute peak period for Damaraland. Temperatures are wonderfully pleasant during the day for game drives and hikes, while the nights are pleasantly cool. As there is no rain during this period, the dry riverbeds are easy to navigate and the unique wildlife gathers around the few remaining water sources, making it much easier to spot.

Question 4

Which Beyond Routes trips include Damaraland?

Accepted Answer

Because of its adventurous character and breathtaking landscapes, Damaraland is an essential part of our  Namibia Adventure 4x4 Camping Trip . We incorporate this region as a rugged and contrasting highlight between the coastal town of Swakopmund and wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, allowing you to experience the country’s diverse faces to the full.

Question 5

How can I spot the unique desert elephants in Damaraland?

Accepted Answer

Although, with a bit of luck, you may also encounter the desert elephant in the Palmwag Conservancy, there is something truly magical and unique about searching for them in a dry riverbed. A fantastic way to do this is to explore the bed of the Ugab River on an organised game drive from  Brandberg White Lady Lodge , where guides track the herds every day. For the even more adventurous traveller, there is a spectacular off-road option: drive from  Sesfontein to Puros , then venture into the riverbed from Puros independently or with a guide. Because the animals here roam completely freely and are constantly on the move, every encounter is a truly unforgettable expedition.

Question 6

What makes the desert elephant and desert lion different from their ‘ordinary’ counterparts?

Accepted Answer

These animals have adapted in a remarkable way to one of the most extreme climates on Earth: The Desert Elephant:  Is genetically identical to the savannah elephant, but often appears to have longer legs and larger feet, making it easier to walk through deep desert sand. They cover enormous distances in search of scarce water, can go for days without drinking and eat specific, dry desert vegetation without completely destroying the trees. The Desert Lion:  Is extremely shy and has a thicker coat to survive the freezing desert nights. Because prey is scarce, they cover vast distances and have developed a unique diet. They do not only hunt antelope, but also eat ostrich chicks, for example, and sometimes travel all the way to the Skeleton Coast to feed on seals and washed-up marine remains.

Question 7

What does the Palmwag Conservancy offer adventurers?

Accepted Answer

The  Palmwag Conservancy  is a rugged private reserve in northern Damaraland and an absolute dream for the experienced adventurer. Here you will find highly challenging 4x4 routes over rocky tracks and through deep sandy roads. Palmwag is also one of the most important habitats of the critically endangered  black rhino , which, with a healthy dose of luck and careful tracking, you may spot here in the wild.

Question 8

Can I drive independently through the Hoanib riverbed?

Accepted Answer

The route from Palmwag via the Hoanib riverbed towards Sesfontein is one of Namibia’s most impressive off-road tracks, but it is also a  very serious route . This should only be attempted with a fully equipped 4x4, thorough preparation, up-to-date local information about the sand conditions and, preferably, several vehicles or a local guide. Of course, we can help you think this through, as you could also drive part of the route, for example.