Deep in the Hartmann Valley of the northern part of Namibia known as Kaokaland is Serra Cafema, a remote camp that is accessible only by light aircraft and a 4×4 transfer across the Namib Desert. A true wilderness, the volcanic rocks and soaring dunes make for a lunar ‘moonscape’ that delights visitors by being surprisingly alive with desert-adapted creatures like the Cape fox, horned adders and long-billed larks. Their lifeblood is the Kunene River that forms the border between Angola and Namibia, and that also provides the spectacular views from the eight tents at Serra Cafema.

Set among albida trees, Serra Cafema will appeal to safari veterans and lovers of the desert who enjoy setting out on quad bikes to spot Ruppell’s korhaans or scimitar-horned oryx. Or hiking in the Marienfluss Mountains looking for Namaqua chameleons and getting a bird’s eye view of the deserted fabled ‘fairy circles’, bizarre circular spots of barren land that form a dappled pattern on the sand. Toast the evening with a river cruise that ferries you to the Angolan side to enjoy sundowners before making your way back for private dinner in Serra Cafema’s wine cellar.

For a truly off-the-beaten-track safari that provides unforgettable accommodation and memorable experiences, Serra Cafema is considered one of Namibia’s flagship desert lodges.