Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp, located in the Palmwag Concession in Damaraland, Namibia, is set to temporarily close from December 7, 2023, until July 2024 for a complete rebuild. The aim of the new camp is to enhance guests’ in-camp safari experience while celebrating its conservation success story and the ongoing protection of one of the world’s last free-roaming populations of critically endangered black rhino.
Since its establishment in 2003, Desert Rhino Camp has served as a base for one of the tracking teams of Save the Rhino Trust, with the operational costs covered by Wilderness. Save the Rhino Trust is responsible for leading all the rangers’ activities, while ensuring all data are collected, processed, and secured. Through this collaboration, the camp has made significant contributions towards the largest, longest-running black rhino database in the world, and has enabled Save the Rhino Trust to increase its range by 20 percent.
Visitors to Desert Rhino Camp play a crucial role in the protection of this imperiled species. As part of the lease agreement, the company provides financial remuneration and employment opportunities to local conservancies, thereby uplifting the surrounding communities. Approximately 11 percent of the total camp revenue is shared between the conservancies, Save the Rhino Trust, and rhino fundraising support, exceeding the total sustainable profit made by the camp in the past five years.
“Everything we do at Desert Rhino Camp revolves around our pioneering partnership with Save the Rhino Trust Namibia and community conservancies. Our conservation purpose is 100 percent why we’re here. And why we invite guests to witness, learn and participate in our efforts to defend the desert-adapted black rhino,” said Alex Henderson, Wilderness Namibia managing director.
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The new camp design takes inspiration from the natural stone found on the site, incorporating colors and textures that reinforce the camp’s connection to the area. Large stretch-fabric roof structures with deep overhangs and silhouettes provide shade and protection without compromising the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The tent interiors, while modern, have been noticeably inspired by the explorer genre, with details of timber and leather adding a touch of rustic charm.
In addition to the exciting developments at Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp, several other luxury travel experiences and accommodations are making waves in Africa. Singita has launched flights between its lodges in Zimbabwe and South Africa, providing seamless and convenient travel options for its discerning guests. In Kenya, Angama has officially opened its stunning new lodge in the Kimana Sanctuary, offering guests the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of this unique conservation area. Meanwhile, Molori Safari has opened a new lodge in Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools, providing an exclusive and luxurious retreat for travelers seeking an unforgettable safari experience. And in Botswana, Great Plains has debuted its Sitatunga Private Island, offering a secluded and idyllic escape for those seeking a truly private and luxurious island experience in the heart of the Okavango Delta.
These developments in the luxury travel and safari industry reflect a growing trend of conservation-focused, high-end experiences that prioritize sustainability, community engagement, and the protection of Africa’s unique wildlife and natural landscapes. As travelers seek out meaningful and enriching experiences, destinations like Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp and the other mentioned luxury accommodations are poised to provide unforgettable adventures that contribute to the preservation of Africa’s natural heritage.
