A vintage, no-frills safari camp in the remote Etendeka Mountains of Northern Damaraland, Etendeka is definitely one for the purist. Owned and operated in a very hands-on manner for close to 20 years by Dennis Leibenberg, who you will have the pleasure of meeting during your stay, the emphasis has always been on simplicity, respect for the pristine surrounds and the chance to explore them in the least intrusive way possible, whether on foot or by vehicle. This is prime walking territory, with rolling hills, panoramic valleys and green season grasslands providing a perfect environment for gentle strolls or full-on hikes. There is varied flora and fauna within this vast wilderness, which Dennis and his head guide know more intimately than anybody else in Namibia. Full-day walks, morning treks, afternoon game drives and sundowner drives can each be your route to mountain zebra, giraffe, antelope and a diverse range of plant species, while lion, leopard, desert elephant and rhino also periodically pass through.

Although recently refurbished, the ten simple tents still hold true to the principles of eco-friendly tourism without unnecessary bells and whistles, with bucket showers, solar powered lighting, comfortable beds and chairs in front of the tents to enjoy the scenery. The central lodge hosts a bar and dining area for the less hospitable months, but food and drinks are often enjoyed under the stars by a campfire. Remaining stubbornly true to its roots for decades, after a few nights at Etendeka it is easy to understand why.