Name: Camp Kipwe - Damaraland 4*
Price range: Prices for upcoming dates start at 7 650 N$ per night
Rating: 9.4

Domiza

07/05/2026

10/10

Camouflaged luxury in the rocks with respectful elephant tracking.
Getting to Camp Kipwe is an adventurous, rugged drive into the heart of Damaraland, but the reward is spectacular. The way the camp is built into the giant granite boulders like natural camouflage is an architectural triumph. The rooms are beautiful and feature unique, creative outdoor/open bathrooms (which we loved). The rock pool is beautifully integrated into the scenery, the food is delicious, and the staff is lovely.
The game drives here are highly recommended. The guides have an incredible instinct for tracking down the famous desert-adapted elephants and giraffes, but what we appreciated most was their deep, genuine respect for the animals—they never push boundaries or stress the wildlife.
Our Safari Lesson: If you visit during the African winter, layer up heavily! It gets biting, brutally cold on the early morning open game drives, so a beanie, gloves, and a proper wind jacket are absolutely mandatory.

Skovmose

06/08/2026

8/10

We had the Kipwe Suite, which was amazing except for one thing despite we were there in 3 day (2 nights) they did not clean the splash pool. I mentioned the first day that they need to run the pump, but nothing happened. The day we left I mentioned it again and it seemed as both the manager and the team didn’t understand that when claim you have a pool it needs to be cleaned.
From my talks with the team it was clear to me that they simply didn’t have cleaning the pool as part of their daily work. They checked the pH value and just added chlorine with the consequence that the pool was smelling of chlorine.
When you charge a heavy price per night, such things needs to be working. This is simple and nothing that cost money or lots of work.
The food was very good and especially the way breakfast was served made you feel like a king.
In the morning I went for a long walk in the bush. A proposal to the team: Mark some walking trails of e. G. 3, 5 and 10km. Walking in such beautiful surroundings is just a good way to start a day.
We went on a morning elephant tracking and the guide was really good.
Overall I can recommend Camp Kipwe, but there are few things that needs to be improved. It should not be necessary for me to tell them that the pool was dirt, smelling of chlorine and not mechanical cleaned for 3 days. The sealing in the bathtub was not working, so the water continued to run out and despite I told about it was not fixed.
Finally it was great to leave with a clean car.

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Kniels753707

04/08/2026

10/10

An exceptional stay at Camp Kipwe.
Our stay at Camp Kipwe was outstanding from start to finish. We were welcomed very warmly, and throughout our time there, the entire team was exceptionally friendly, attentive, and genuinely committed to making our stay as pleasant as possible.
The food was excellent and consistently of a very high standard. A particular highlight is the sundowner on the small hill around which the lodge is beautifully built – a unique setting with an impressive atmosphere.
The activities were equally remarkable. The game drives were very well organised, and seeing the desert elephants was a special experience. We also visited the rock paintings of the San (Bushmen), which added an important cultural dimension to the stay. Our guide Werner made a significant difference – he put in a great deal of effort, explained everything clearly and in detail, and ensured that each excursion was both informative and engaging.
The lodge itself offers a pleasant pool area with comfortable loungers, complemented by consistently good service. Overall, we felt extremely comfortable at all times.
Camp Kipwe is a very special place, and we can recommend it without reservation.

Chika A.

04/01/2026

8/10

Just spent 2 nights in Camp Kipwe and whilst it was generally a lovely place to stay, there are a few things that could have made this a 5 star experience but sadly doesn’t. I’ll start with the positives: the camp is beautiful, food is good with good options and lots of snacks. Surrounds are absolutely stunning and it was fulfilling to see the desert elephants as that’s the primary reason people visit Damaraland, including to see the organ pipes and ancient rock paintings. There’s also good network service which was very useful for keeping in touch with family.
Now for the not so positives: my room was right in front of the fire pit so in the evening my room would smell of smoke and sometimes get on my clothes. Housekeeping service could be better, used plates and cups were not removed from the room and remained there for the duration of my stay until my last night when I asked the waiter who was helping me bring tea to my room to remove it, used towels which I was happy to reuse to conserve water were not properly arranged and left in whatever state I left it. Never mind that housekeeping would perform a turn down service for the night and still not attend to the little things.
I frequently had to ask for things as services would be provided incomplete as an oversight. The visit to the organ pipes felt quite rushed although it’s a short stop as the main afternoon activity is Twyfelfontein. Twyfelfontein is very interesting to see but it was scorching hot!

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Olgamelman

03/08/2026

10/10

That camp just took my breath away. It's incredible how it was built into the rock formation. Just imagining how much work must have gone into this is truly mind-blowing. And then there was also a small pool where you can order some delicious gin cocktails by pressing on a button on a rock. OMG, so fancy!
The atmosphere here is so magical and very unique. The whole staff was amazing — especially Tuta and Jekonia, thank you for everything. The food quality was amazing — and that in such a remote area. And thank you for the vegan delights.
The view at the top of the lodge was superb at sunset. The room was so huge and comfortable and I loved the outside bathroom surrounded by a beautiful bush.
I have absolutely nothing to complain and I find it so lame from other guests to complain that the Wi-Fi didn´t work. So what? Maybe those guests just shouldn't visit remote areas and stay only in cities, problem solved.
And last but not least: Camp Kipwe was the best place ever for star gazing. I´ve sit at my terrace for hours admiring the Milky Way and all the shooting stars. I feel so blessed to have been your guest.

Jared P

02/14/2026

10/10

We stayed 3 nights at Camp Kipwe and had one of the most memorable experiences of our lives. First, the lodge is impeccably built and managed, with an attentive, friendly, and professional staff that know how to make guests comfortable and happy.
The food was also excellent and portion size massive — reminded me of the US. You will walk away satisfied at every meal.
We also did two activities, the game drive and rock painting tour. Both of which were very nice and informative. Ziggy found us 15 desert elephants which we had the opportunity to get close to.
Most importantly, the staff were fun and personable and we walked away getting to know many on a first name basis, sharing cultures and stories. Lazarus surprised us the last night with a private table by the fire for dinner which was a special touch to an already perfect stay.
Do yourself a favor and book here. It is worth a price premium and is an experience you will not forget.

Hattie C.

02/11/2026

10/10

A gorgeous place to stay. We arrived after very heavy rains and were advised that the chances of seeing elephants the next day would be very low because of this and they recommended we made the most of the lodge instead and set off early for our next drive. Whilst we were disappointed to not see elephants we really appreciated the honesty.
The camp is beautiful. They have taken great care in designing the space and the food was excellent.

David P.

01/29/2026

10/10

You’ll not find a better lodge experience.
As far as Wow factor you’ve Sonop and Fish River Lodge that come to mind that will maybe exceed Kipwe — But when it comes down to it, it’s about the total experience and no one does it better than the guys at here — We had a lot of fun with the team, service is pitch perfect and food is outstanding — this is an extremely well run and well invested set up with a very fine team. Kipwe will live long in the the memory for all the right reasons — not often you come across that kind of magic.

Silvia B.

01/02/2026

10/10

Absolutely amazing place! We totally loved it. Rooms are extraordinary and the bathrooms are amazing. Food at the restaurant is the best you could ever have in Namibia. Service is amazing! Location is unforgettable and the care and taste the put building it and decorating it is worth visiting.

Richard_s_nz

12/21/2025

10/10

Camp Kipwe, Damaraland, Namibia — is simply stunning, it’s incredible how it’s built into the rocks overlooking the plains. An architectural feat second to none, creating a unique experience.
The rooms are spacious with air conditioning, a Nespresso coffee machine, (empty) bar fridge and a safe. Adjoining is a private half — covered bathroom. My only concern was that the AC struggled to cool the room sufficiently when the outdoor temperature exceeded 35°C. There is a quite gorgeous outdoor pool built into the rocks.
The lounge and dining areas are elegant and offer sweeping views. The included lunch and 5 course dinners are superb. Breakfast is a rather simple affair and would be better served by a more comprehensive buffet. Note that all drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and barista coffees are chargeable. A bit of a climb takes you to the viewing deck on top of the hill where there’s a bar and it’s a great place to enjoy the view over sundowners.

Bushbaby20

12/06/2025

10/10

Amazing location-
Nestled into the hillside with bungalows and incredible views across Damaraland. Sundowners high above the lodge with stunning outlook over rocky landscape. Food a real highlight — Antonio looked after us so well. Special mention to Werner and great morning in the landscape finding elephant herd in the riverbed and afternoon visit to rock engraving.

Rob C.

11/10/2025

10/10

Camp Kipwe is a special place! Absolutely breathtaking views, sundowner spot and rooms. The whole camp is a masterpiece and a work of art from a design point of view. Nestled into the rocks, it's just a joy to explore the camp as it winds itself around the rockface.
The food at Camp Kipwe was the best we ate in all of Namibia. The chef is incredible. We especially enjoyed the game (Oryx) steaks. I'd also say there is nowhere better for a sundowner than on the top of the rocks with the phenomenal view.
The staff team were fantastic in making us feel welcomed and looked after.
We did a couple of activities at Kipwe (Desert Elephants and Twyfelfontein) and both were fantastic experiences and we fully recommend them.
Stay here without a doubt!

579neilj

11/08/2025

10/10

A fantastic lodge with wonderful, friendly staff. The accommodation is unique and superb with great outdoor bathrooms. The food was high quality. The setting is fantastic, spectacular scenic views all round, in splendid isolation and tremendous sunset views from the sundowner hilltop location. Everyone was eager to please and ensure our stay was special, which it was.

P9115mwmarke

10/26/2025

10/10

We stayed in one of the beautiful suites, having stayed in a standard room previously. Very spacious, clean and excellent facilities including the plunge pool. Beautiful views, too. Food was great, the desert elephants were brilliant and don’t miss the daily sundowner on top of the rock. Had a great time with nothing at all to complain about; we enjoyed every minute. The staff were all charming and helpful too.

Jpospi234584

10/24/2025

10/10

Camp Kipwe was one of the most beautiful places we ever visited. The quality of the services and the accommodation is well worth the price. The staff was very friendly and helpful. Even helped us plan a unique experience to celebrate our engagement. The sundowner at the top of the hill is a must. The one night in the suite of Camp Kipwe was the highlight of our Namibia trip. And that says a lot!

רותם ש.

10/21/2025

10/10

The best place! The crew are very welcoming and serviceable (although not too much to make you feel uncomfortable).
I had a minor problem with my car, the crew fixed it for me without extra charge. My girlfriend is a vegetarian and the kitchen made her a special delicious food.
The place has an amazing sunset viewpoint.
Very recommended.

H.

10/03/2025

10/10

My wife and I stayed at this beautiful location for 2 nights early September. The staff and the entire accomodation was just fantastic. The desert elephant drive is a must do and worth every minute. Meals, our room with open air bathroom and hospitality excellent. We just have one word to say — Thankyou — Harry and Annmarie.

Celiza C.

07/20/2025

10/10

Would highly recommend this beautiful lodge! The service was excellent and the food the best of our trip.
Communal areas and suite were extremely comfortable and luxurious. The basic room was a bit dark and had no Wi-Fi but fine for a couple of days.
The game drive to see the desert adapted elephants with Rosie was excellent. We didn’t see anything for a couple of hours and then managed to see two big herds at the end. Rosie was v skilled at knowing where the elephants were likely to walk to and could tell us about the individual elephants. We did a trip to the cave engravings the day before which was fine but could easily be skipped — for some reason we weren’t taken to the organ pipes so felt v expensive for just a walk around the engravings.
We would definitely recommend Camp Kipwe — if you can upgrade to the suite more the better.

S.

07/10/2025

10/10

This camp is unique — built amongst the rocks with magnificent views over Damaraland from every vantage. The rooms are stunning and the outdoor bathrooms are very special. The food is exceptional and our guided trip to see the Desert Elephants was incredible. Highly recommended.

R.

06/26/2025

6/10

There is so much to like about this camp, but unfortunately the dislikes over weighed things for us.
So lets start with the good. The drive to the camp is spectacular, Damaraland was one of the most beautiful areas that we travelled through in Namibia. Be advised though there are a lot of beggars on the roadside who the moment they hear a car will run out to try to sell you goods. The lodge is carefully designed around the rocks in a koppe, and is difficult to spot until you arrive. It is set on three levels, on the ground all of the chalets are carefully built so you are secluded from other guests and all with a small terrace with great view. On the next level is a lovely open sided restaurant / bar with spectacular views and a small pool and on the top a viewing deck where you can have sundowners. Your chalet is one very big room with a huge bed, small seating area and table and fridge. The bathroom and toilet are all outside which is lit at night. Outside is also a terrace area where you can sit and watch the view, although we saw little wildlife there apart from lizards. The restaurant probably had the best choice of food of anywhere we stayed, with a three course meal every evening and very high dining. Breakfast was an amazing lovely platter of fresh fruit, yoghurts bread and baked goods served to your table and a range of cooked to order hot food. They also offer a range of activities, although we had booked ours privately.
All good so far, now to the negatives.

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