Wilderness opens reimagined Desert Rhino Camp

“After months of careful planning, hard work, passion and grit, we are delighted to reveal this remarkable new camp, and to continue driving conservation tourism to the diverse Palmwag Concession. As a former rhino research field station, Desert Rhino Camp has evolved into a truly premier destination, underscoring our commitment to our partners, and our unique conservation coalition between Wilderness, Save the Rhino Trust Namibia (SRT) and the famed ‘Big 3’ Community Conservancies in the area”, noted Alex Henderson, Managing Director of Wilderness Namibia.

Offering an exclusive desert sanctuary, the camp also provides guests with unique opportunities to track rhinos on foot and by vehicle with SRT guides. This immersive experience enables nature-lovers to actively support the conservation of Namibia's black rhinos while experiencing the region's diverse biodiversity, including robust populations of Hartmann's mountain zebra, southern giraffe, gemsbok (oryx), springbok, kudu and black-backed jackal. Occasionally, elusive predators such as cheetah and leopard are spotted, as well as an array of fascinating reptile and bird species.

As part of Desert Rhino Camp's dedication to the Wilderness Impact strategy and its three core pillars - Educate, Empower, and Protect - the efforts of this joint venture provide financial remuneration and employment opportunities, positively uplifting the local communities. Approximately 11% of the camp’s total revenue is shared between the conservancies, SRT and rhino fundraising support. Furthermore, the camp continues to serve as a vital base for one of SRT's expert tracking teams, ensuring meticulous monitoring and data collection, to further enrich the largest and longest-running black rhino database in the world.

This impact purpose, together with the starkly beautiful landscape and natural elements, guided the camp design. Indigenous stone has been seamlessly integrated, harnessing local skills and craftsmanship. With a dedication to sustainability, Desert Rhino Camp operates entirely on solar power, and has used repurposed materials from its former facilities to build staff housing. Designed by Migs+Drew (M+D) architects, large fabric roofs and locally sourced stone are a feature, blending into the desert terrain with ecological sensitivity. The interiors blend rustic elegance with contemporary comfort, and each of the six modern suites, crafted from canvas and stone, embodies the camp’s ethos. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding copper-coloured earth and red rocks, Reflecting Africa’s interior design celebrates the explorer age with a combination of stone, timber and leather materials, encapsulating the unique story of the rhino at every turn.

“Even our dining experience reflects the camp’s conservation ethos, emphasising sustainability through mindful menus and the use of regional ingredients. Chef Namwandi's passion for culinary storytelling enriches each dish, inviting guests on an immersive journey through Namibia's diverse gastronomic landscape, enjoyed in an array of settings, from private dining options, to exquisite star-studded dinners beneath the expansive African sky and alfresco lunches while on exhilarating rhino tracking excursions”, added Alex. The food philosophy celebrates Namibia's rich heritage by supporting local agriculture and crafting signature dishes such as Lamb Potjie and Prime Beef, cooked over open flame for an authentic touch, while sundowners against dramatic sunsets redefine exclusivity.

“From humble beginnings 20 years ago, we are immensely proud of Desert Rhino Camp’s journey and transformation. We look forward to welcoming our guests to this reimagined sanctuary soon, to not only experience unparalleled hospitality in Namibia’s awe-inspiring landscapes, but to directly contribute to the ongoing protection of an endangered species”, Alex concluded.