Desert Rhino Camp

The communal lounge and dining room sits under a long stretch of canvas shaded by a gnarled old tree, open at the front to the grasslands and distant mountains. Meals are taken at a long family table, with thick stone walls, timber floors and a proper bar with stools behind it. Two lounge areas hold oversized leather couches, soft ottomans and faded kelims, and a floodlit waterhole sits just below. After a hot day scouting for game, cool off in the plunge pool under a tree.

Simple yet stylish, the six canvas-and-stone suites will sit well with glampers and those whose jaws clench when you mention camping. They're spacious and en suite, furnished with a writing desk, king-size bed, leather armchair and kelims gracing the timber floor. Sliding glass doors open onto a wooden deck with a day-bed, armchairs and a cushioned star bed for sleeping out. Twin stone basins anchor the bathroom, which has both an indoor shower and an outdoor one. One suite is a family unit that can sleep four.

The critically endangered free roaming desert adapted black rhino, is the highlight of any journey into north-western Namibia (we admit, the Damaraland elephants are a highlight too). Save The Rhino Trust Namibia, the NPO working with the lodge have brought the geographically unique species back from the point of extinction. Spend your days with the trackers from the conservation organisation, monitoring the rhino on foot or by vehicle and while you’re at it keep your eyes open for the unique wildlife that inhabit the area from hyenas and lions to jackals, scorpions and chameleons. The lodge arranges special picnic lunches in the bush and dining under the stars. Be adventurous, head out and explore!