//Huab Under Canvas, part of Ultimate Safari’s Journeys Under Canvas portfolio, is a semi-permanent tented camp in the unique //Huab Conservancy in western Namibia’s Damaraland. While always comfortable and well-appointed, the emphasis here is upon an exclusive, back-to-basics wilderness experience.
Overview
Set in its own exclusive-use area, //Huab under Canvas is built into a mopane forest on the //Huab River and is practically invisible from anywhere around. The feel is of an authentic camp: open wooden floors, canvas roofs and roll-up doorways. Wooden decks and walkways lead between the tents and the pleasant shared areas, which comprise a lounge with sofas and armchairs, a large deck with excellent views and sun-loungers arranged around a fire, and a communal dining area. Also essential to note is that //Huab offers access to Ultimate’s ‘Stellar Escapes’. This is a group of star beds in an ancient dry riverbed nearby, where a stay includes a bush dinner, an astronomy tutorial and a night under the spectacular Namibian sky.
Food & service
This is a fully-catered camp. The cuisine is fairly rudimentary but nevertheless varied and of a high standard, including hot breakfasts and a three-course dinner. Service is friendly and helpful.
Rooms
There are 8 tents at //Huab Under Canvas, all Meru canvas structures with cut-out windows and wooden floors, ideal accommodation for Namibian conditions. Each is of a decent size and includes twin beds as well as an en suite bathroom with hot bucket showers, a flush toilet and a wash-area with sink and mirror.
Activities
At //Huab Under Canvas the (understandable) focus is upon rhino tracking, for which purpose the camp employs ‘Rhino Rangers’, who track the animals by foot. Nature walks, a variety of hiking trails and drives are also available, with other wildlife including desert elephant.
Impact
Conservation
//Huab Under Canvas has an ultra-low-impact approach, and Ultimate is deeply involved with conservation authorities in helping to safeguard the local rhino population.