An authentic, sensitive cultural introduction to the Kalahari alongside the bushman people
Nhoma is a permanent tented camp about 1.5hrs away from the Khaudum National Park and is run by Arno and Estelle who have been involved with the Ju/'hoansi Bushmen of this area for years. The camp is a simple – ten permanent meru-style tents with en-suite bathrooms and a little verandah. Meals and drinks are taken in the mess tent or under the prolific stars around the camp-fire.
The camp is oriented around the Bushmen or San villagers and offers a rare, sensitive and authentic opportunity to learn more about their lives. For the Bushmen, having tourists visit provides an important income and a chance to preserve fast disappearing traditions.
Activities here revolve around what happens to be going on in the village. During your stay at Nhoma, you will have the opportunity to spend the morning or possibly most of the day out with the hunters who will track animals from springhare to kudu with the intention of bringing home meat for the village. Along the way they will pause to talk about the bush, animal tracks, and plants that they use for food or medicine. All this is done with Arno or another guide as an interpreter.
The afternoons are often spent in the village where the men and women will be maintaining their shelters, making rope or preparing food. The Bushmen are outgoing, friendly and fun and you’ll get the most out of your experience here if you join in fully and enjoy yourself. Be aware that activities are determined by what the Bushmen are doing and so can vary in duration and distance. Some hunts may go on for a few hours so you will enjoy it most if you are reasonably fit and game for some surprises.
This is certainly a bush experience with a difference where you will see nature through the eyes of people who rely on it for every aspect of their livelihoods. You may come across some wildlife but this is not the focus of Nhoma.
10 simple but comfortable safari tents with en-suite bathrooms
An authentic, sensitive cultural introduction to the Kalahari alongside the bushman people
The Khaudum National Park exists primarily for conservation and is pretty undeveloped as far as tourism goes. Crouching on Namibia’s eastern border with Botswana, the park is one of those places that unsuspecting people pitch up in unprepared and end up in a whole world of trouble. The terrain is rugged and the roads are more like your average beach, necessitating constant four-wheel drive, at least two cars and super-scout abilities at preparation and digging. There is no fuel and very little opportunity to re-stock with water. Chances are you’ll not see another car or person whilst here. Read more?
If you are considering travelling to Namibia, chances are you are looking for something out of the ordinary. A journey through Namibia is all about daily surprises; the impossible number of stars, the expanse of views over desert mountains, the improbable salmon-pink of sand-dunes at sunrise, the ingenuity of small creatures adapted to the harsh environment, the ochre and leather dress of the Himba and petticoated dresses of the Herero, the first taste of ostrich biltong and the excellent seafood. Jump straight to some of our favourite Namibian experiences. Read more?
_120_70_80_s_c1.jpg)
Can't find the camp you're looking for? Just let us know and we will be sure to help.
Catherine's long experience of, and enthusiasm for Africa, makes her a mine of travel information. Add to the mix her vivacious character and inscrutable attention to detail and there are few people you'd rather have plan your holiday.
At Natural High, we've had long experience putting together trips in Africa that really work. Whether it's intimate bushcamps in out of the way places, or a private lodge in one of Africa's top-billing wildlife areas, light mobile camping or remote island escapes, we know there is a lot to choose from. We're absolutely confident that we can recommend the right places for you.
