Serra Cafema Camp
Set under large, shady albida trees with uninterrupted views of the Kunene River in Namibia, lies the luxurious desert retreat of Serra Cafema. This is one of the most remote camps in southern Africa and a place where guests can truly disconnect, unwind and relax to the sound of rushing water, in one of the driest deserts in the world. Serra Cafema has eight “chalets” that are set on elevated decks and crafted in wood, canvas and thatch to create a unique camp that is at one with its surroundings. Seven of these are twin-bedded luxury tents each with two three-quarter beds. There is also one family luxury tented unit with two three-quarter beds in each bedroom, and each with its own bathroom. The bedrooms are connected through an adjoining deck with a shared sala.
The luxury canvas tents each comprise en-suite facilities with separate toilet, double vanity basin, indoor- and outdoor shower, indoor lounge area, outdoor sala and shaded seating / lounging deck area, mosquito net, electronic safe, hairdryer, writing desk and chair, mini-bar and tea and coffee making facilities. The main area, or “Ozonganda” in Herero, comprises various dining areas, sunken lounge, bar, curio corner and viewing decks affording spectacular views over the Kunene River. There is also a swimming pool.
Why we like it here
Serra Cafema is 100% solar-powered with solar geysers.
Respectful interaction with the Himba community – a group of semi-nomadic pastoralists who live in the Kaokoveld area – when they are in the area.
As the only permanent source of water in the area, the Kunene River creates an oasis along its banks – visually creating a winding band of green surrounded by the lunar landscape of the Namib Desert.
Game viewing is limited to small herds of gemsbok, springbok and Hartmann’s mountain zebra, while the river has large populations of Nile crocodiles.
The lodge has a mutually-beneficial agreement with the Marienfluss Conservancy, which is primarily owned by the Himba people, including benefits like employment and skills transfers.
Enjoy a stargazing excursion with a laser pointer (not offered around full moon).
The Olympus Photo Hub experience makes it possible for guests to make use of professional photography equipment during their time staying at Serra Cafema.
Relax with an in-tent massage.
Excursions include fascinating nature walks, boating (water levels permitting), and low-impact guided quad-bike excursions.
Things to be aware of
Only children of 6 years and older are accommodated at Serra Cafema, and between 6 and 16 years will need to share a room with an adult/s.
For families travelling with children between 6 and 12 years, private activities need to be booked and paid for.
The minimum age for walking activities is 13 years, while for quad-biking activities it is 16 years.
At this point in time, the lodge is not accessible on a self-drive basis.
Mattress converters are available that transforms twin beds into king-size beds.
There is no air-conditioning in the tents, however they do have a pedestal fan and a ceiling fan.