Palmwag Lodge in northern Damaraland
Palmwag Lodge lies a few kilometres north of the C43 and C39 junction in northern Damaraland, between Kaokoland and the Skeleton Coast. The lodge overlooks a landscape of red rock, flat-topped mountains, makalani palms and the seasonal channels of the Uniab River.
The surrounding Palmwag conservation area supports desert-adapted wildlife, including black rhino and elephant. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but guided drives and walks provide a structured way to explore this remote environment with local knowledge.
Palmwag Lodge offers conventional rooms, equipped Camping2Go tents and campsites. This range makes it suitable for self-drive travellers who want either lodge facilities or a more independent stay without leaving the Palmwag area.
For wider context on Namibia’s protected landscapes and desert-adapted wildlife, see the official Wildlife and National Parks information from Namibia’s environment ministry.
Palmwag Lodge rooms, Camping2Go tents and campsites
Palmwag Lodge rooms and family accommodation
The lodge has 22 rooms: ten standard twin rooms, ten comfort twin rooms and two comfort family units. Rooms have mosquito nets, air conditioning and heating, tea and coffee facilities, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Comfort rooms and family units also have shaded verandas.
Palmwag Camping2Go accommodation
Eight equipped safari tents each sleep up to four guests. Bedding and towels are supplied, and every unit has an en-suite bathroom and a shaded outdoor kitchen with seating, fridge, gas cooker, power points, barbecue facilities and a water cooler.
Palmwag Lodge campsites
Eighteen campsites accommodate up to six people per site. Each has private ablutions with hot and cold water, power, lighting, shade and a barbecue area. Firewood is sold separately, and pets are not permitted.
Palmwag Lodge facilities and restaurant
Shared facilities include a restaurant, bar, two cold-water swimming pools, reception, curio shop, playground and secure parking. A fuel station sells diesel and unleaded petrol during operating hours, which is useful when travelling through remote northern Damaraland.
Room bookings normally include breakfast. Lunch, dinner and packed lunches are available separately. Camping and Camping2Go guests can use the shared lodge facilities while retaining the flexibility of self-catering.
- Two swimming pools and a children’s playground
- Restaurant, bar, reception and curio shop
- Fuel station and secure parking
- Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity where available
- Nearby airstrip with transfers by prior arrangement
Palmwag Lodge rhino tracking, scenic drives and hikes
Morning and afternoon scenic drives explore the Palmwag concession in search of wildlife and views across the Etendeka landscape. Full-day Damaraland excursions travel farther into the conservation area and generally require a minimum number of guests.
Guided rhino tracking from Palmwag Lodge
Half-day black-rhino tracking combines vehicle travel with walking and is led by experienced guides. It is physically more demanding than a standard game drive, requires an early start and is not suitable for children under 12.
Hiking and Palmwag sleep-outs
Short guided hikes focus on tracks, plants and smaller wildlife. A seasonal under-canvas sleep-out may also be available for small groups, combining a remote tented overnight with meals, a game drive and a guided walk. All activities depend on availability, weather and conservation conditions.
Planning a Palmwag Lodge and camping stay
Palmwag is reached on gravel roads, and a high-clearance vehicle is useful even when a 4×4 is not essential for the main approach. Road conditions can change, so allow flexible driving time and refuel when the opportunity arises.
Children are welcome, with family rooms and a playground available. Children up to five years generally stay free, while children aged six to 13 usually receive a reduced sharing rate. Selected walking and tracking activities have a minimum age of 12.
See our Namibia self-drive safari routes for itinerary ideas, or contact Travel 2 Namibia to confirm rooms, Camping2Go tents, campsites and activities.
