Kamanjab is a good point to stop and refuel, but is also a good base for excursions and fly-ins into north-eastern Namibia, as well as guided trips into western Etosha, so the length of stay can be a brief stop to refuel or a number of nights, depending on the activities.

There are a number of lodges around Kamanjab. The village of Kamanjab has a petrol station and a number of stores.

Preparation for driving
Travellers should be advised to leave with a full tank and plenty of water. Read the guidelines for driving in the desert, here>>

Driving
Due to the extreme terrain and general isolation of the area, travellers should stay on the main routes and should not be tempted to explore. Any exploration off the main routes should be done with an experienced local activity operator.

The Himbas
Although the Himbas are generally hospitable, due to cultural differences and language differences, it is advisable to visit the Himbas on an organised activity with an activity operator who understands and respects their customs and heritage. The following should be remembered at all times:

• Do not walk between the sacred fire and the headman’s hut and the / or the kraal under any circumstances. Ask for guidance if unsure.
• Ask permission before entering the homestead.
• Ask permission before taking photos.
• Do not wash hands or face or even utensils with clean water, as clean water is regarded as a precious resource, best used for cooking, drinking and for animals.

Clothing
Travellers should be prepared for cold and high heat. In winter (May to September) the nights may be cold but midday may be warm to hot. In summer the temperature may rise to over 35 C.

Clothing
Travellers should be prepared for cold weather in winter.

Water
As this stretch involves driving through the very arid areas, travellers should carry ample water. For more information on driving in the desert, click here>>

Sun and heat
Although the refreshments may be included in the activity, travellers should be advised to carry a small amount of water. Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are also advisable.

Photographic supplies
Ensure that enough flash memory cards or film stock is on hand. Lenses should ideally be UV coated. A zoom lens will come in handy.

* Access to western Etosha
* The Peet Alberts rock art site
* Himba encounters
* Desert elephants
* Namib lions
* Black rhino

The Peet Alberts rock art site is located on a small hill outside Kamanjab. This is the second largest rock art site in Namibia. Common themes include hunting, shamanistic elements, animals and animal tracks. A number of deep holes in the granite ensured that there was water throughout the year, making this an excellent site for settlement.

There is a small Himba settlement in the vicinity of Kamanjab. However travellers can fly to Epupa and the Kaokoland, or take day excursions in 4X4 vehicles to meet other groups of Himbas.

Kamanjab offers access to Kaokoland through Opuwo, a vast, sparsely populated area of remarkable beauty. Self-drive excursions of the main road must be discouraged as travellers can easily become lost.

Kamanjab is near to Etosha, and elephants will be seen from time to time. Kamanjab also falls in the area frequented by desert elephants.

Kamanjab lies in the range of the endangered, desert-adwelling black rhino . Black rhino conservation initiatives and sustainable tourism activities are driven by Save the Rhino Trust.

A number of lions have adapted to the Namib, and may be seen in the areas north-east of Kamanjab. However sightings will be fleeting and very lucky indeed.

Kamanjab can be reached in a 2X4 sedan, however onward travel may require an offroad vehicle, particularly in the rainy season.

Twyfelfontein (from the D2612 turn-off)
* Follow the D2612 to the C39 (approx. 15 km)
* Follow the C39 northwards to the C43 (approx 43 km)
* Follow the C43 to the C40 (approx. 40 km)
* Follow the C40 to Kamanjab (approx. 114 km)

Opuwo
* Follow the C43 to the C40 (approx. 224 km)
* Follow the C40 to Kamanjab (approx. 114 km)

Etosha (Okaukuejo)
* Follow the C38 to the C40 (approx. 106 km)
* Follow the C40 to Kamanjab (approx. 155 km)

* Western Etosha
* Opuwo
* Twyfelfontein
* Brandberg
* Epupa
* Ruacana
* Kaokoland

Kamanjab, a base for adventure on the western edge of Etosha, offers travellers the second largest rock art site in Namibia, a chance to meet the Himbas in Kaokoland and opportunities to see the black rhino and desert elephants.

The name Kamanjab means ‘place of stones’ or ‘large rocks’. The name refers to granite outcroppings in the vicinity.

In winter (May to September) the nights may be cold but midday may be warm to hot. In summer the temperature may rise to over 35 C.