Hoanib Elephant Camp: Rhino Tracking in the Palmwag Concession

Hoanib Elephant Camp is set in the Sesfontein Community Conservancy in the Hoanib Valley, just outside the Palmwag concession area. It is roughly 70 km southwest of Sesfontein on the banks of the Hoanib River. It’s one of the genuine base camps for guided black rhino tracking in the region. It also offers an exclusive, remote desert safari in largely untouched wilderness.

What Makes Hoanib Elephant Camp Different

Hoanib Elephant Camp’s ten spacious canvas tents sit on raised platforms, each with rammed earth walls that absorb heat by day and release it at night to regulate the temperature inside. Being based near the Palmwag Concession puts the camp within the region’s core black rhino range. Rhino tracking here is a structured, guided activity, not a chance sighting. For the full picture of where guided rhino tracking is offered across Damaraland, see our rhino tracking guide.

Accommodation at Hoanib Elephant Camp

The camp’s ten tents — eight twin units and two family units — are spacious and elegantly finished. Each opens onto its own private deck and plunge pool, with sweeping views across the desert plains and distant mountains. Every tent is air-conditioned, with en-suite bathrooms featuring double vanities, hairdryers, and both indoor and outdoor showers. The camp runs on solar power and offers free laundry facilities.

Location & Getting There

Most guests reach Hoanib Elephant Camp by light aircraft on a fly-in safari, landing at an airstrip just five minutes from camp. Self-drive travellers can reach the camp too. A 4×4 and off-road driving experience are needed to navigate dry riverbeds and deep sand in this remote part of northern Damaraland.

Activities & Experiences

• Guided rhino tracking for the rare and endangered black rhino is the main activity here.
• Morning and evening game drives in search of desert-adapted elephants and other wildlife.
• A nearby waterhole regularly draws oryx, giraffe, desert lion and the rare brown hyena.
• Guests can also take a guided nature walk.
• Visit the local Himba community for a cultural encounter.
• End the day with a scenic sundowner and stargazing session.

Nearby Attractions

Hoanib Elephant Camp sits close to Hoanib Valley Camp. For other camps and lodges across the region, see our Damaraland accommodation guide.