Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp introduces all-new enhanced dining experience

From star-studded dinners under the vast African sky to outdoor lunches during exhilarating rhino tracking excursions, Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp presents a diverse array of private dining options. The food philosophy celebrates Namibia's rich heritage by supporting local agriculture and crafting signature dishes such as Prime Beef, wild spinach-filled Oshingali Pancakes and Lamb Potjie, cooked over open flames for that authentic touch, while sundowners against dramatic sunsets redefine exclusivity.

 “We have integrated our positive impact story into the Desert Rhino Camp food experience to enable our guests to explore the wonders of Damaraland. Our dining experiences do not just serve as talking points to encourage interaction, but also reveal treasured insights into the vast Palmwag landscape, and our continued role in conserving the desert-adapted black rhino in the area – the largest free-roaming population of this species in the world. We want to encourage an interactive storytelling atmosphere with light-hearted yet enlightening conversations between our guests and experienced guides”, noted Timotheus Namwandi, Desert Rhino Camp Head Chef.

Now leading the kitchen team following his tenure at the sister property, Wilderness Damaraland Camp, Chef Namwandi brings a profound passion for culinary storytelling, infusing each dish with a narrative that invites guests on an immersive journey through Namibia's diverse culinary landscape.

The gastronomic adventure at Desert Rhino Camp incorporates local ingredients like Efukwa, a highly nutritious ground nut and the Namibian equivalent of salted edamame. Cow pea, a local white bean which is added to soups as a great source of protein is another, as are Namibian dates – a popular addition to the dessert offerings. 

Additionally, the camp enhances beverages with Rooibos leaves, as well as incorporating it along with millet and local raisins into breakfast granolas. The camp’s chefs cook and serve their signature dishes at the outdoor fireplace – a favourite gathering place for all guests – where the classic Roosterbrood shines. Served steaming hot, it’s more than just a delicious local bread roll baked over coals, but also forms part of an ancient tradition passed on from generation to generation. Slightly charred, it’s served with everything – from local braai meats to seasonal vegetables with spicy tomato relish.

Farmers in the area supply the camp with these local, seasonal vegetables. The success of this relationship means Chef Namwandi is able to place orders tailored to his curated menu offerings, furthering the camp’s commitment to a lighter “foodprint”.

“Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp has a number of unique dining setups that extend beyond the plate and ensure lifelong travel memories. Game-drive sundowners remain the ultimate highlight, taking place after the day’s adventurous rhino tracking excursion, where an ice-cold, local hibiscus lemonade is served alongside delicious bite-sized local treats”, concluded Chef Namwandi.

The camp's pantry also boasts a versatile selection of savoury and sweet teatime delights, incorporating traditional produce into nutritious snacks like muffins, seed crackers served with pickled vegetable atchars and cured venison. From days that begin with breakfast spreads of Marula Nut Crumpets served with kumquats and cream, to dinners enjoyed under a canopy of stars, where the traditional Smoky Bean and Okra Pot is enhanced with gingered sundried tomatoes, each dining experience harmonises perfectly with its soul-stirring surroundings.

Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp invites guests to embark on a food journey that celebrates sustainability, indigenous ingredients and the rich cultural tapestry of Namibia. Through immersive dining experiences and innovative menus, the camp continues to redefine the essence of culinary excellence in the heart of Africa.