Desert Quiver Camp, Sesriem

Desert Quiver Camp is a self-catering camp run by Taleni Africa on the D826/C27 road to Sossusvlei. It sits a few kilometres from the Sesriem entrance gate of the Namib-Naukluft Park, where the 60 km tar road to the Sossusvlei dunes begins. Its sister property, Sossusvlei Lodge, is about five minutes' drive away. That is where you will find the restaurant and the Adventure Centre, which books the guided Sossusvlei and Deadvlei excursions, Sesriem Canyon trips, dune walks and scenic flights.

The camp has 24 twin-bedded chalets set in a semicircle among granite outcrops. Each has an en-suite shower and a covered patio with a fitted kitchenette, an under-counter fridge, a two-plate hob and its own braai. Bedding and towels are included, fresh food can be ordered daily from reception, and boxes of cooking utensils can be borrowed against a refundable deposit. Two of the units are wheelchair-accessible.

What sets it apart at Sesriem is the freedom to cook for yourself. You can braai outside your own chalet after a day in the dunes, but if you would rather not cook, bed-and-breakfast and dinner-bed-and-breakfast packages can also be booked. Between excursions there is a pool with desert views, a bar, two communal bomas and a waterhole. Wi-Fi is free at the bar and pool but is not available in the units.