Overview
An oasis of luxury far from anywhere
Set of the green banks of the Kunene River, looking across to the Angolan border in Namibia's extreme north, Serra Cafema is one of Southern Africa’s most remote camps.
A thin strip of life giving water surrounded by an otherworldly desert landscape where you can fully unplug an be immersed in the wilderness.
There are eight comfortable en-suite chalets here, each set on stilts. Built using wood, thatch and canvas, they have been specially designed to fit into the natural surroundings. You’ll find the lounge area built into the ground, and there is also a bar areas, dining areas both indoors and outside, as well as a curio shop, small library and a plunge pool.
Serra Cafema is situated in the Marienfluss Conservancy which is primarily owned by some of the last semi-nomadic people on the planet - the Himba people. This partnership has been in place for the past 15 years, and almost three quarters of the staff at Serra Cafema come from the surrounding area.
Facts
At a glance
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Eight tents including one family tent
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Plunge pool
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Indoor and outdoor dining areas
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Solar powered
Experiences
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![Serra Cafema Camp Boating]()
Boating on the Kunene River
Water levels permitting, going boating on the Kunene River is the perfect opportunity for you to explore the lush riverside oases. Crocodiles and water birds seem almost out of place in this surreal, lunar-like landscape.
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![Serra Cafema Camp 18]()
Quad biking
Going on a guided quad biking excursion through the fragile environment is bound to be one of the highlights of your stay. The excursion is done with extreme care along allocated pathways, so as to preserve the unique habitat and tread lightly.
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![Serra Cafema Camp 19]()
Visit to a Himba community
If the semi-nomadic Himba people are in the area when you’re staying, you may have the opportunity to spend some time with them and learn about their lifestyle and customs.
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![Serra Cafema Camp 4]()
Nature drives and walks in the Hartmann’s Valley
Head out on an informative nature drive in an open Land Rover to experience the Namib in all its glory. A nature walk gives you opportunities to see some of the small inhabitants of the desert, from the popular fairy circles to desert chameleons.
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![Serra Cafema Camp 6]()
Birding
Because of Serra Cafema’s location beside both desert and river, there is an abundance of both water and desert birds to cross off your list.
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![Serra Cafema Camp 15]()
Explore the dunes
Go for a stroll up and along one of the Namib’s iconic dunes. It may take a little effort, but the view from the top is well worth it.
Community & Culture
Since the land the camp is constructed on is owned primarily by the Himba people, Serra Cafema maintains a good relationship with the group, and when they move into the area periodically, guests can take the opportunity to experience their culture in respectful interactions.
Namibian culture is reflected throughout, with much of the furniture having been constructed by craftsmen and women at Tabled, an enterprise which gives underprivileged young Namibians the chance to create designer furniture. Other elements have been sourced from similar projects, like the leather menu, wine and room folders from Myeisha which employs previously-unskilled local workers; and bathroom products from Mbiri which works with Himba women.
Conservation
Crocodile Research, a combined project between Wilderness Safaris, the University of Stellenbosch and the Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism, aims to estimate the number of crocodiles on a section of the Kunene above and below the camp. The DNA-based research takes a closer look at the genetics of Nile crocodiles across the country.
Wilderness Safaris is also involved in the Namibian Sea Turtle Project which operates just north of the Kunene River mouth where sea turtles nest annually. This initiative aims to secure nesting beaches in southern Angola, as well as monitor the turtles when they’re in Namibian waters.
Footprint
In line with Wilderness Safaris’ commitment to keep their eco-footprint as light as possible, Serra Cafema is completely solar powered.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
