Maybe we’re biased, but the best way to experience Namibia (and Southern Africa in general) is by camping. Forget generic hotel rooms. Out here, the real magic happens in nature. The weather is perfect for it (though nights can get chilly), and nothing beats falling asleep under skies so clear you can see the Milky Way in its full glory. Dinner tastes better cooked over a braai or campfire… especially with Namibia’s dramatic landscapes as your backdrop.
During our three-month road trip across Southern Africa, we stayed at campsites all over Namibia! From Etosha to the Skeleton Coast. Some are world-famous (and book out fast, I’m looking at you – Sesriem and Etosha), while others are hidden gems most travellers miss. And honestly? You don’t need to stick to the most popular spots to experience the magic of camping in Namibia.
In this guide, we share our honest reviews of the best campsites in Namibia… with photos, pros and cons, and booking tips. Whether you’re overlanding in a 4×4 with a rooftop tent or pitching a simple ground tent, these campsites will help you plan the perfect Namibia road trip.
💡 Quick heads-up: Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you click and book, I might earn enough for a coffee (or a local beer 🍺). It’s at absolutely no extra cost to you! The price stays the same, you just help fuel more adventures (and questionable food choices) along the way.
A Map overview of our campsites
This map includes the campsites mentioned included the alternatives – both campsite options and lux.
Our Review of our Campsites in Namibia
Halali Camp (Etosha National Park)
See reviews on Tripadvisor or book through the NWR website.
While the campground is pretty basic, it is the waterhole that really shines and would probably be the reason you enjoy your stay. Halali Camp is one of the few campsites located inside Etosha National Park, it is run by the Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR). If you want to see rhinos and elephants while sipping a drink at camp, this is the place. Halali floodlit waterhole is legendary. With the waterhole viewing located about 5 mins walk from the campsite, you can venture there early in the morning, late at night, whenever you feel like to watch any of the amazing wildlife that’s feeling a little thirsty.
Campsite Amenities: Braai stand, electricity outlet included (South African plug), small light post. There are communal ablutions and washing up area. There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own – or there’s a restaurant onsite. WIFI available (not very fast) at the reception.
What we liked about it: The watering hole (d’uh)!
What we weren’t a fan about: Extremely busy. You would need to book way in advance. We just managed to find an opening but mainly because we were extremely flexible with our dates. Not that it matters to some but there wasn’t really any warm water.
It is pretty expensive for what you get but the waterhole might make up for it.
Luxury Alternatives: If you’re not into camping or if you have a more flexible budget, there are private rooms/cabins available for rent.
Camping Alternatives: While the only other campsites inside the Etosha National Park is run by NWR, there are plenty of options near the park boundaries. One option is the Gondwana Etosha Safari Camp (below) located outside Anderson Gate or Onguma Tamboti Campsite, located outside the Namutoni Gate.
Gondwana Etosha Safari Camp (Etosha National Park)
Book here for the best price for a campsite
When you step into the Gondwana Etosha Safari Camp reception, you get the vibe of being in a roadhouse. The decor is pretty cool and quirky. One thing we appreciated after 3 months on the road was what an absolute vibe the place was in the evenings. There was a live band set up, playing a bunch of hits from throughout the years. Even the staff was joining in. We didn’t try the food but the dinner buffet menu looked very tasty and a decent priced alternative (420 NAD / USD$23 / £17) if you’re not in the mood to cook!
Campsite Amenities: Braai stand, electricity outlet included (South African plug), small light post. There are communal ablutions and washing up area. There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own – or there’s a restaurant onsite.
WIFI available at the restaurant.
There is a swimming pool available for all guests.
What we liked about it: The vibe was amazing. The staff really set up the ambience with music and the decor is very Route 66 Roadhouse. The campsite was tidy, with large areas of flat grass to pitch your tent. Ablutions were clean.
What we weren’t a fan about: It is quite busy but you are afterall nearby one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country… Nothing bad about the campsites per say!
Camping Alternatives: During peak season, the campsites can get full quick. An alternative outside the park, near Anderson Gate, would be Etosha Village Campsite.
Luxury Alternatives: If you are looking for something more luxurious and in the lodge part of the Gondwana Etosha estate, maybe the Etosha Safari Lodge is what you’re looking for.
Eldorado Camp (Etosha National Park)
See reviews on Tripadvisor or book the lodge.
Located just opposite of Gondwana Etosha Safari Camp, you’ll find Eldorado Camp a few hundred meters down off the highway. A note about this place: they do have some big cats kept on the property. While it is something I personally don’t condone, they do have availability when every other campsite in and around Etosha NP is fully booked. We didn’t participate in any of the big cat viewings or feedings.
Campsite Amenities: Braai stand, electricity outlet included (South African plug), small light post. There are communal ablutions and washing up area. There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own – or there’s a restaurant onsite.
Slow WIFI available at the restaurant.
There is a swimming pool available for all guests.
What we liked about it: Considering that it all campsites was fully booked out in and around Etosha, it was great that there was space here. Located nearby the Anderson Gate.
What we weren’t a fan about: This is more of a personal opinion but it would be the big cat feeding. While I understand the big cats were a big problem for farmers (they were hunting livestock) and the alternative would be to put them down, it’s something that I personally wasn’t a fan off and it was just really sad to see them in a gated area.
Camping Alternatives: During peak season, the campsites can get full quick. An alternative outside the park, near Anderson Gate, would be Etosha Village Campsite or Gondwana Etosha Safari Camp.
Luxury Alternatives: If you are looking for an alternative to camping and in the lodge then the Eldorado B&B (same property) is available. Alternatively, there’s also the Gondwana Etosha estate opposite, maybe the Etosha Safari Lodge is what you’re looking for.
Hoada Campsite (Damaraland)
For more details, prices, and traveler reviews, see Hoada Campsite on Tripadvisor
They didn’t have any campsites available so we opted for a tented camp, as a little splurge for ourselves. The site itself is pretty cool and sets you in the dramatic landscapes of Damaraland. The view from the swimming pool is nice and it feels a bit otherworldly.
Campsite Amenities: Fire pit, braai stand, lights, a USB point for charging. Private ablutions and washing up area (donkey shower). There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own. There is a swimming pool and sundowner bar.
Hiking trail around the property.
What we liked about it: It really is a typical Damaraland campsite, set in the big boulders. Campsites are spaced out so while it is busy, it doesn’t feel overcrowded. Also the trail you can walk around is really nice and easy.
What we weren’t a fan about: This might just be us but we felt really cold overnight! We couldn’t find any spare blankets and ended up using our own. But apart from that, the campsite itself is really nice so nothing bad to report here.
Luxury Alternatives: This is definitely on the other end of the spectrum where it is bougie! Grootberg Lodge, highly rated on Booking.com with rave reviews and plenty of activities on offer.
Gondwana Palmwag Campsite (Damaraland)
Book here for the best price for camping
The Damarland Region is an amazing place to find the desert adapted elephants and giraffes. There is so much to explore in this region and the Gondwana Palmwag can help arrange for activities and drives around. We, however, decided not to do any of the activities with them. Honestly, they were on the pricier end and we’ve done countless safaris over the last few months, we felt okay to skip the safaris on offer. There is however, a self drive route that you can drive yourself (for a fee) but you will need a 4×4 vehicle to do this route.
Campsite Amenities: Braai stand, electricity outlet included (South African or European plug), lights. Private stand with private ablutions and washing up area. There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own. A picnic bench is available at each campsite stand. There is a small kiosk for any quick essentials you might’ve forgotten but it is limited.
WIFI available at the reception, restaurant and pool area.
There is a swimming pool.
What we liked about it: The campsite stands are clean, have everything you need and while they are relatively close together, it did feel private. From our campsite, there is a decent view. Sometimes you might get lucky and the local resident (an elephant) might pay you a visit.
What we weren’t a fan about: I love a good fire and unfortunately, there was no where to make one (unless you use the braai stand). The campsite itself is fine and we enjoyed it. They are doing construction on one of the pools while we were there so it may be out of commission depending on when you go.
Alternatives: Like all Gondwana properties, you have the options of Camping2Go where everything is provided or the Palmwag Lodge for something a bit more upscaled.
Mile 108 (Skeleton Coast)
There isn’t too many places to camp along the Skeleton Coast apart from a couple of options. We opted for Mile 108 with a private stand (ablution and washing up) because we thought it might provide a little bit more shelter against the coastal winds. Turns out, that’s not quite the case.
Campsite Amenities: Fire place. Private ablutions (you fire your own donkey shower and flush toilet) and washing up area. There is no kitchen equipment. There is a little kiosk where you can buy some immediate needs – firewood for your campfire.
Unstable WIFI available only at the reception. There is a USB point for charging.
What we liked about it: It’s location to Skeleton Coast. It is quite nice listening to the waves crash on the shore when you go to bed. You might even spot a black-back jackal roaming the campsite in the mornings.
What we weren’t a fan about: This is a bit knick picky but if you have a rooftop tent, the wind walls are no where near high enough to protect you from the wind. The site isn’t very well maintained but since we were the only ones there, we could pick which campsite stand we wanted (go for numbers 7 > as they are newer).
Alternatives: There is the Cape Cross Lodge (read reviews here) which is about 33km south of Mile 108 and it is located right next to the Cape Cross Seal Colony! Alternatively, there’s a lot of accommodation options in Henties Bay, located approximately an hour south of the Seal Colony.
Erongo Rocks (Damaraland) – Camp Granite
Look at any of the 8 campsites available at Erongo Rocks here.
Okay. Hands down, probably my favourite campsite in Namibia. It wasn’t overly luxurious and you need to be quite self sufficient but camping amongst these massive granite boulders – WOW! Erongo Rocks has 6 different campsites, all with a different vibe and something unique. I couldn’t get over our campsite. Literally, I think I fell in love. But don’t take just my word for it, check out what others are saying.
Campsite Amenities: Braai stand. Campfire place. Private campsite with private ablutions (bucket shower and flush toilet) and washing up area. There is no kitchen equipment. There’s a dining area. There is a little kiosk where you can buy some immediate needs – firewood for your campfire.
WIFI available only at the reception (a few km away from the campsites).
There is a plunge pool nearby reception.
Erongo Rocks is currently working on building a restaurant and a new kiosk/reception area so you might have something in the future!
What we liked about it: Absolute privacy. It is pretty otherworldly camping amongst these massive boulders with no one else in sight. Truly – the campsites are spread out so it’s almost like you have the whole place yourself. There is also a ton of hiking trails to explore, all well marked and you even get a map. We explored one of the trails and I can confirm, it was stunning.
What we weren’t a fan about: Honestly? Nothing. But we are also pretty self sufficient so we were fine without electricity and hot water. As long as there is running water, I’m pretty happy!
Alternatives: There aren’t too many alternatives in the area that cater towards budget or camping but here are a couple of suggestions that have fantastic reviews (but they obviously come with a price tag!). Omerenga (luxury), Ai Aiba The Rock Painting Lodge and Otjohotozu Guestfarm.
Spitzkoppe Tented Camp and Campsite (Spitzkoppe)
Don’t take our word for it, read what others are saying.
Okay, Spitzkoppe is probably one of the most famous attractions in Namibia after Etosha National Park. And honestly, I don’t blame it. It is a beautiful place. Unfortunately for us, the campsite inside the Spitzkoppe Reserve was completely booked out for weeks… It would’ve been our preferred option but we did end up in a good spot nearby. From our campsite, we had a beautiful view of Spitzkoppe and it was a short drive to the park gates.
Campsite Amenities: Fire pit, electricity outlet included (South African plug), a light. Private campsite with ablutions and washing up sink (donkey shower and flush toilet). There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own.
Slow WIFI available at the reception and restaurant.
Great views of Spitzkoppe depending on your campsite – we had Camp 3 which we can confirm was a good view.
What we liked about it: The view was beautiful and the location was great.
What we weren’t a fan about: It felt like an after thought. The campsite didn’t feel like it was cleaned up after the previous guest and there was bits and pieces of construction material about. Our campsite seemed to be quite rundown, however we peeped at the others nearby and theirs seemed nicer! Luck of the draw, I guess.
Camping Alternatives: I would try camp at Spitzkoppe Community Campsite if you can and want to be fully immersed in the scenery. Although be warned, there are no showers at the campsite themselves (there is a shower block at reception) and the toilets are long drop. There is no water supply. You’re literally paying to sleep with a view of the boulders or Spitzkoppe.
Luxury Alternatives: If you have a bit more of a budget and would prefer a cabin, Spitzkoppe Cabin Camp is a good option, although it veers on the side of luxurious.
Goanikontes Oasis (Namib Desert, near Swakopmund)
Read the reviews here or book a night in the private accommodations here.
The drive to Goanikontes is quite a dramatic one. It is set in the Moon Valley with scenery that genuinely makes you feel like you’ve just landed on Mars or the Moon. I kept mentally playing the Interstellar soundtrack whenever I saw the views. Depending on the weekend, the accommodation do have activities lined up. It is pretty funny because while we were having breakfast, the resident chickens came wandering into our campsite.
A note about Goanikontes Oasis, there are some animals (mainly birds) that were kept as pets in cages. We even saw an emu? A bit unsure as to why that is but some people do keep birds as pets.
Campsite Amenities: Braai stand, electricity outlet included (South African and European plug), lights. Private stand with private ablutions and washing up area. There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own. There is a small kiosk for any quick essentials you might’ve forgotten, braai meat available at the kiosk.
WIFI available at the reception and restaurant.
There is a swimming pool and a couple of hiking trails around the area.
What we liked about it: The surrounding scenery was really cool. Also despite it being peak season, the grounds was generally pretty quiet so it felt like a slice of paradise. The restaurant is good!
What we weren’t a fan about: We thought it was all around a good campsite and worth a visit if you want to experience an oasis in the middle of the Moon Valley of Namibia.
Luxury Alternatives: The Goanikontes Oasis Camp has more than campsites, there are private tents and bungalows available which can be booked here Goanikontes Oasis. Another accommodation in the area, although according to the reviews haven’t been the most value for money is the Livingstone’s Private Tented Lodge.
Nauams Mountain Cabin and Campsite (between Windhoek and Solitaire)
If you’ve just arrived to Namibia and want to go somewhere that gives you that typical Namibian campsite hospitality and gravel roads that’s relatively close to Windhoek – then Nauams might be the place for you. It’s located approximately 3-4hrs from Windhoek and it is mainly on gravel roads. It has a stunning view on the drive in and it is a good stopover point if you’re heading towards Solitaire.
Campsite Amenities: Fire pit, electricity outlet included (South African plug), a light. Private campsite with ablutions and washing up area (donkey shower and flush toilet). There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own.
WIFI available at the reception and restaurant.
There is a hiking + biking routes and other activities onsite – you just need to arrange it at the activities center. Bikes are available for rent.
What we liked about it: While being on the tourist route, it felt private. The surrounding area was really nice and the campsite felt open but private. There was another couple camping in the site next to us but we almost forgot that they were there. It almost gave me Erongo Rocks vibes.
What we weren’t a fan about: We liked the campsite! We think it’s a good place if you’re new to being self sufficient and bush camping in Namibia/Southern Africa since the kiosk is nearby and well stocked.
Luxury Alternatives: Nauams has mountain cabins and chalets available for booking if you wanted a break from camping or wanted a little splurge. That can be booked here. Alternatively, there’s Camp Gecko, located on the other side of Spreetshoogte Pass from Nauams.
Sossus Oasis Campsite (Sesriem – Sossusvlei)
We got lucky and managed to nab probably one of the last campsites available at Sesriem (we booked a couple of days before entering Namibia – everything else was booked out). This wouldn’t be my first option for camping for Sesriem or Sossusvlei but it does the job just fine. It is located as part of the Engen Petrol station but there’s a decent on site shop if you forgot any supplies.
Campsite Amenities: 12 campsite stands. Braai stand, electricity outlet included (South African or European plug), lights. Private stand with private ablutions (solar powered water heater) and washing up area. There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own.
WIFI available (via a voucher) at the reception.
There is a swimming pool in the middle of the campsites.
What we liked about it: It is located right outside the park gates. The general facilities for our site was good and it’s nice having a pool to cool down at after being out in the Namibian heat.
What we weren’t a fan about: Like a lot of popular places in Namibia, you will need to book some time in advance. You are next to the highway but once it starts getting to bedtime, the roads are quiet – until just before sunrise where there’s a queue of cars waiting to get into the National Park gates. Since the road next to the campsite is gravel, there’s quite a bit of dust that gets kicked up.
Camping Alternatives: If you need to be inside of the national park gates and want access to Dune 45 and Sossusvlei an hour before sunrise, I would recommend staying at either Sesriem Oshana Campsite or Sesriem Campsite (NWR). But book in advance as there’s seem to be the only campsites inside so it snaps up quickly!
Luxury Alternatives: Okay, this place looks gorgeous but I don’t know if I could personally justify the price tag! Dead Valley Lodge is located inside the national park gates so you will be on of the firsts to get to the Dunes.
Gondwana Canyon Roadhouse Campsite (Fish River Canyon)
Book the Canyon Roadhouse Campsite or the Canyon Roadhouse Lodge here.
Driving in the barren landscapes of Namibia, I always find it funny when there is nothing and then suddenly there are buildings and civilization. Canyon Roadhouse kinda felt like that. After turning off the B2 onto C12 and C37, there isn’t too much apart from signs for accommodations. And suddenly on the side there’s a Roadhouse. There is diesel (although fill early!) and the roadhouse itself is pretty quirky. Similar to the Etosha Safari Camp (also a Gondwana property), it is very Route 66-sique. Although, I enjoy that aesthetic.
Campsite Amenities: Fire pit, electricity outlet included (South African plug), a light. Communal ablutions and washing up area (donkey shower). There is no kitchen so you would need to bring your own. There is a restaurant onsite.
WIFI available at the reception and restaurant.
There is a swimming pool.
What we liked about it: It is well located and the Roadhouse vibe is quite nice. It does set the scene that you’re in the desert and if you romanticize a road trip and Route 66, it might be up your alley.
What we weren’t a fan about: The campsite was fine, although after staying at other Gondwana properties, it felt like a bit of a let down. I’m not sure how to explain why. It just felt a bit like an after thought, whereas the other properties felt a bit more intentional with their campsites.
Camping Alternative: If you want to be closer to Fish River Canyon, and I mean at the entrance of the canyon – you’re probably better off camping at Hobas Lodge – NWR. The prices may be more than Canyon Roadhouse but you are paying for location (although you won’t get a view of the canyon). Located further away from Fish River Canyon is Canyon Farmyard Camping, which seems reasonably priced and has great reviews.
Luxury Alternatives: As previously mentioned about Gondwana properties, there is a lodge onsite for more upscaled accommodation. But there’s also a bit more of a middle ground with Gondwana Canyon Village for a budget between the camping and lodge.
FAQs for Camping in Namibia
How much do campsites in Namibia cost?
On average, N$200 to 350 per person ($10 to 20 USD).
Do I need a 4×4 to reach them?
Not always. Main tourist routes are fine for 2WD but places like Spitzkoppe or remote Damaraland are better with a 4×4.
Is it safe to camp in Namibia?
Of course! I wouldn’t be recommending it to you if I didn’t feel safe 🙂 Depending on where you are, you might meet other overlanders. Use common sense and don’t wild camp unless you have permission.
What’s the best season for camping in Namibia?
April–October (dry season). November to March can be hot with occasional heavy rains.
How many days do you need for a Namibia road trip?
Tough to say! I would say 2 weeks minimum but the longer the better! We spent 19 days exploring this amazing country and I still don’t think it’s enough…
How much does a Namibia road trip cost?
Well, stay tuned! I’ve collated our expenses and I am in the progress of writing a little post on it. Keep your eyes peeled!
Can you rent camping gear or do you need to bring your own?
Depending on the company you’re renting your car from, camping gear should be included. But best to check.
Do you need to book Namibia campsites in advance?
Yes and no! For some campsites, you will have to book in advance to reserve a spot. Others – you can wing it to some degree… Sesriem and Etosha are probably prime examples of not winging it because they do book out.
Is it safe to drive in Namibia at night?
As a general rule, I would say if you can keep between daylight hours, you should. It is a bit riskier driving at night as it becomes significantly harder to see potholes, people, animals and the road in general.
Can you combine Namibia with a trip to Botswana or South Africa?
Absolutely!!! We border crossed from Botswana and continued back in South Africa. You could easily combine it if you had enough time to 🙂
Campfire Chat – let’s wrap up 😉
Camping in Namibia isn’t just about saving cash (although it’s a very nice bonus). It’s honestly the best way to see the country. You get to wake up with elephants wandering past the watering hole, fall asleep under a billion stars in the Namib Desert and roll out of your tent to watch the sun light up places like Spitzkoppe. Way better than a generic hotel room, right? Trick question, it is obviously better.
For me, the best campsites in Namibia are the ones that slow you down and disconnect. Where you just sit back with a sundowner, listen to the fire crackle and realize you’re basically living inside a road trip dream. Sure, you’ll want to book the popular ones early but leave a little space for detours too… that’s where the real magic happens and you might find your favourite campsite.
If you’re plotting your own Namibia road trip itinerary, I hope this guide helps you find the perfect campsites. And hey, if you stumble across a hidden gem along the way – please let me know!!! I’ll be the one chasing sunsets and braais somewhere down a gravel road.
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