Private Camps

Madisa Camp

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Rugged Elegance in the Heart of Damaraland

Madisa Camp is a distinctive, eco-friendly retreat tucked into the dramatic landscapes of the Damaraland region in north-western Namibia. Set within the Sorris Sorris Conservancy, this camp is surrounded by massive granite boulders, ancient Mopane trees and one of the desert’s most fascinating residents: the desert-adapted elephant.

Ideal for nature lovers and adventurers alike, Madisa offers an immersive experience that combines back-to-nature charm with thoughtful comfort. Whether you’re staying in a self-catering safari tent or enjoying the spacious campsites beneath the stars, you’re placed right in the heart of landscapes shaped over eons.

Location & Setting

Madisa Camp is situated just off the D2612 near Twyfelfontein, in the expansive Damaraland region.  The camp lies between the ancient riverbed and striking rock formations, offering vistas that stretch across the Namaqualand wilderness and into one of the world’s last true wilderness regions. The setting gives you a perfect base to explore nearby highlights such as Twyfelfontein (a UNESCO Rock Art site), Brandberg Mountain, the Petrified Forest and remote desert elephant corridors.

Because the camp is located on large conserved land, you’ll enjoy a sense of space, quiet and wilderness often not found at larger resorts. With granite boulders to climb, star-filled skies to photograph, and the possibility of witnessing elephants wandering through, Madisa invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and connect with nature.

Accommodation & Atmosphere

Madisa Camp offers two main types of accommodation, allowing you to choose between tented elegance and full camping immersion:

Safari Tents (Self-Catering)

• Meru-style safari tents nestled amid rock formations and Mopane trees.
• Each tent includes an ensuite rock bathroom with basin, shower and toilet — offering a unique blend of comfort and wilderness.
• Bedding provided; you arrive to ready-made tent.
• Outdoor braai (barbecue) area for your use (bring your own equipment).
• Solar/para­ffin lighting and hot water provided at night (basic comforts, no luxury air conditioning).

Campsites (Private / Over-land)

• Spacious private camping sites, each with individual ablution facilities elevated among trees (the “tree-house” style bathrooms).
• Braai area doubling as a “donkey-ged” hot water system for showers. Each site shaded by Mopane trees and enclosed by a low rock wall.
• Over-land sites also available for large tents and campers.

The vibe at Madisa is “rustic luxury” — not polished 5-star, but deeply comfortable, character-rich and connected to the land. The décor is minimal, nature-driven and surrounded by silence and space. Perfect for travellers who value experience over extravagance.

Dining & Facilities

Madisa Camp operates on a self-catering basis, giving you the freedom to cook and dine as you wish. However, the communal areas provide wonderful amenities:

• Swimming pool set at the base of a huge rock outcrop — perfect for cooling down after a hot day exploring.
• Bar & shaded lounge area for socialising with fellow travellers.
• On-site braai/charcoal facilities and shaded picnic/relaxation zones.
• Free parking and natural paths to explore the property.

While it may not provide full-service dining like luxury lodges, what it lacks in formality it gains in atmosphere, adventure and authenticity.

Activities at Madisa Camp

Elephant Tracking Excursion

Step into the world of the majestic desert-adapted elephants that roam the wilderness of Damaraland. Departing at around 7:30 am and lasting approximately 6 – 8 hours (dependent on the elephants’ location), this guided tracking expedition offers an intimate encounter with these gentle giants. You’ll learn how our guides read the landscape—tracks, droppings, waterholes—and follow the elephants through rugged terrain and open plains. Included in this adventure is a light lunch and cool drinks to keep you refreshed throughout the day. Pricing: N$ 1,820 per adult; N$ 910 per child; children under 5 not permitted.

Scenic Sundowner Drive

As the heat of the day fades, join us for a breathtaking 3-hour sundowner drive. Depart from camp into the Damaraland wilderness in an open game viewer, where sightings of elephants, giraffes, springbok and other wildlife are possible (though not guaranteed). The drive climbs to a high rock-outcrop (“koppie”) as the sun begins to set, offering panoramic views of the terrain bathed in golden light. Enjoy snacks and a drink included in the price while you soak in the sweeping views and serene atmosphere. Pricing: N$ 650 per adult; N$ 330 per child under 11.

Both activities are organised with care and respect for the environment and wildlife. Whether you’re tracking desert elephants in the morning or savouring sunset vistas in the afternoon, Madisa Camp offers memorable experiences that deepen your connection with Damaraland’s extraordinary landscape.

Wildlife & Nature Encounters

Madisa’s location within desert-elephant territory gives it a special edge for nature-lovers. The camp guides and local trackers know the patterns of these magnificent animals, offering spectacular opportunities for observation (note: sightings cannot be guaranteed).

Other nature highlights include:

• Bird-watching: Many species thrive here, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Granite boulder walks: Explore the rock formations, photograph surreal landscapes, find hidden tracks and ancient lichen.
• Scenic stargazing: With little light pollution and a wide open sky, the stars come alive.

For travellers seeking a deeper encounter with Namibia’s wild side, Madisa excels.

Who Will Enjoy Madisa Camp?

Madisa is ideal for:

• Self-drive travellers exploring Damaraland and the northern regions.
• Campers, tent-lovers and travellers happy to “go back to basics” in style.
• Nature-enthusiasts who wish to track elephants or explore rock art sites.
• Photographers drawn to wide horizons, granite formations, star-filled skies, and desert landscapes.
• Families and groups wanting a memorable stay with character, freedom and natural beauty (note: tenting best suited to older children/adults able to self-cater).

Why Book Through Travel2Namibia?

We know Damaraland well — its roads, its remote camps, its hidden corners and what makes each stay unique. When you book Madisa Camp through us, we help arrange the right access, the right equipment, route planning and suggestions for activities in the area. We make sure you choose the right nights, the right type of accommodation and the right timing to maximise your remote Namibia experience.

INCLUDES

• Hot water & solar lighting in accommodation / ablutions
• Use of swimming pool and bar area
• Bird-watching hide/access
• Secure parking
• Tourism levy/VAT

EXCLUDES

• Meals and drinks (self-catering)
• Transfers to / from the camp
• Guided activities (e.g., elephant tracking) unless booked separately
• Camping gear, braai equipment (for some campsite options)
• Luxury amenities such as air-conditioning, WiFi (may be limited)
• National park fees and other external excursions