Palmwag Concession- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

The Palmwag Concession in north‑western Namibia covers a vast area of approximately 550,000 hectares within the Damaraland region. Located within the Kunene Region and adjacent to the Skeleton Coast, this remote wilderness offers a markedly different safari experience compared to more mainstream parks. For travellers seeking a more rugged, off‑the‑beaten‑track encounter, the Palmwag Concession Namibia safari experience is a compelling choice.

This region is distinguished by its rugged basalt landscapes—remnants of eruptions some 125 million years ago—table‑top mountains, and the dry Uniab River bed that sustains life in this arid terrain. The ecosystem supports a number of rare, desert‑adapted species. Most notably, the black rhino population here is among the richest of its kind in Africa. Elephant populations have also adapted to the harsh conditions. The wildlife list extends to lions, cheetahs, giraffes, mountain zebras and hyenas.

Importantly, the conservation model here involves local communal conservancies such as Sesfontein, Anabeb and Torra working alongside the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and specialist trusts. Despite the abundance of species, visitors should be aware that wildlife densities are relatively low and sightings are less guaranteed than in traditional high‑density safari parks.

When planning a trip, you’ll find a variety of ways to explore the area: guided nature drives, rhino‑tracking walks, self‑drive circuits and even sleep‑out camps deep inside the concession. For example, at Palmwag Lodge you can join a half‑day rhino tracking excursion on foot or a full‑day scenic drive across the concession.

From an accommodation standpoint, there are lodges such as Palmwag Lodge and more basic campsites with minimal infrastructure for the adventurous. The best time to plan your trip for wildlife viewing and comfortable conditions is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period the terrain is easier to access and animals are more likely to gather around limited water sources.

Logistics matter: a 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended for routes across the concession due to rough tracks and remote terrain. Permits are required at the entrance gate. When crafting your itinerary, account for distances and the fact that this area is more remote than many tourism hubs in Namibia.

• Ensure your vehicle is well‑equipped and you have sufficient fuel, water and supplies. Some travel blogs note that Palmwag is the last reliable fuel stop before heading into deeper wilderness.
• Respect wildlife and stay within permitted routes and campsites. The rules are designed to minimise disturbance of sensitive species.
• Tailor your expectations: this is not a high‑density game‑drive zone but rather a place for those who value remote landscapes, natural rhythms and the possibility of seeing rare wildlife in isolation.
• Stay flexible in timing and route: you may spend days exploring without spotting large predators, but every moment of the scenery and solitude adds value.