One of the most spectacular destinations in Damaraland is the Abu Huab valley. Here, ancient watercourses cut through the land, providing seasonal waters that sustain desert life. At certain times of the year, these watercourses flow powerfully enough to pick up enormous tree-trunks and carry them downstream. At other times, you can walk across the cracked clay of the dried riverbeds. The extremities of Damaraland, including Abu Huab, really need to be seen to be believed.

Another must-visit destination in Damaraland is Hoanib Valley. This area is renowned for its desert-adapted species, such as the desert elephant, giraffe, and lion. Sightings of these unique animals make for an unforgettable safari experience. The small amount of seasonal rainfall is a vital factor in sustaining these species.

Damaraland is also home to ancient San Bushmen artworks, which can be found at various sites such as Brandberg Mountain, Twyfelfontein, and Spitzkoppe. The rock art, dating back 6,000 years, provides valuable insights into the lives of indigenous hunter-gatherers in this area.

As one of Namibia's least populated areas, tourists are few and far between, making Damaraland the perfect destination for those who like to get off the beaten track. Whether you're exploring the stunning rock formations, tracking desert-adapted animals, or discovering ancient rock art, a safari holiday in Damaraland is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Damaraland is a unique region in Namibia known for its desert-adapted wildlife, which has evolved to survive in the harsh desert environment. Some of the wildlife you may encounter on safari in Damaraland includes elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and various species of antelope.

The desert-adapted elephants are a sight to behold, as they have evolved to survive in the arid terrain by adapting their behavior and diet to the available resources. They have longer legs and lighter bodies, which make them better suited to cover long distances in search of food and water. These elephants are also known for their unique ability to dig for water in dry riverbeds using their tusks.

Damaraland is also home to a population of desert-adapted lions, which are known for their muscular builds and large paws that allow them to move effortlessly across the sandy terrain. They have adapted to the harsh environment by becoming opportunistic hunters, preying on the various antelope species that inhabit the region.

In addition to elephants and lions, you may also come across giraffes with longer necks and legs, which help them reach the leaves of the scarce trees. The Hartmann's mountain zebra, which has adapted to living in the desert by becoming more resistant to dehydration, is also a popular sighting. Other species of antelopes, such as oryx, kudu, and springbok, are also commonly seen in the region.

The best time of year to see desert-adapted wildlife on safari in Damaraland is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable, and the wildlife tends to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.

In the dry season, water is scarce, and many animals are forced to migrate to areas where they can find water and vegetation. This makes it easier to locate and observe them in their natural habitats. Elephants, in particular, tend to migrate towards the riverbeds in search of water and can be seen digging for water with their tusks.

The dry season also coincides with the breeding season for many species of antelopes, which increases the chances of seeing young animals. Additionally, the lack of vegetation makes it easier to spot predators such as lions, which can often be seen stalking their prey.

While it is possible to see desert-adapted wildlife year-round in Damaraland, the dry season offers the best opportunities for sightings and is therefore the most popular time for safaris in the region. However, visitors should be prepared for cold nights and early morning game drives during this time, as temperatures can drop significantly in the desert.

January:

The rainy season is in full swing, with occasional thunderstorms and hot temperatures during the day (averaging around 30°C/86°F) and warm nights.

February:

Similar to January, with hot and humid weather, occasional thunderstorms, and high chances of cloudy days.

March:

The end of the rainy season, with temperatures starting to cool down and the chance of rain decreasing. Temperatures during the day average around 28°C/82°F, with cooler nights.

April:

The beginning of the dry season, with comfortable temperatures during the day (around 27°C/81°F) and cooler nights. There may be occasional rain showers, but these are becoming increasingly rare.

May:

The start of the high season for tourism in Damaraland, with cooler temperatures during the day (averaging around 25°C/77°F) and colder nights. It is generally dry with clear skies.

June:

Similar to May, with slightly cooler temperatures and colder nights. This is a popular time for safaris, as wildlife is often easier to spot in the dry landscape.

July:

The middle of the dry season, with cool temperatures during the day (around 23°C/73°F) and cold nights. It is typically dry with clear skies.

August:

Similar to July, with cooler temperatures and cold nights. It is a popular time for wildlife sightings, as animals tend to congregate around water sources.

September:

The end of the dry season, with temperatures starting to warm up again during the day (around 28°C/82°F) and cool nights. Wildlife is still abundant, but temperatures can be quite hot during the day.

October:

The beginning of the rainy season, with occasional thunderstorms and hot temperatures during the day (around 32°C/90°F) and warm nights. Wildlife sightings can still be good, but the landscape may start to become greener.

November:

Similar to October, with hot and humid weather and occasional rain showers. Wildlife may start to disperse as water sources become more plentiful.

December:

The start of the rainy season, with occasional thunderstorms and hot temperatures during the day (around 31°C/88°F) and warm nights. Wildlife sightings can still be good, but the landscape may become greener and more difficult to navigate.