aka Ngatutunge Pamue Campsite (5 sites) c/o IRDNC, PO Box 1715, Swakopmund; web: www.nacobta.com.na
Ngatutunge Pamue means 'we build together', and this is a super site, about 100km northwest of Sesfontein, near the Purros village. It is run by Peter Uaraavi and his family. The pitches are on the wooded bank of the Hoarusib River, 3km north of Purros. Each has a flush toilet (surrounded by reeds), shower and fireplace (no grid) with tap and bin. Nearby is a section of the river that is normally forced over-ground by a rock barrier.

One main purpose of the camp is to provide employment for the local Himba from Purros village, so you are strongly encouraged to hire guides for your own game drives and to take guided walks looking for plants used in traditional medicine, as well as escorted trips to Himba villages. Costs are very reasonable, about N$25 for a few hours, and this is an effective way to put some money directly into the local economy.

Peter encourages visitors to spend time at the village of Purros, and will introduce you as a guest, rather than just some foreigner who gawps. So greet the villagers, and spend time talking with them, and learning a little of how they live. Many now are helped by the income made from selling jewellery, or guiding visitors around their local area – they deserve your support. Ask your guide to include a few walks. It makes a pleasant break from driving over poor surfaces and allows time to take in your surroundings. Around Purros it is usually possible to visit Himba villages on foot, which is a more leisurely and satisfying way to meet these pastoral people, allowing plenty of time for an exchange of views and questions through your guide. After all, how would you like it if a group of strangers drove up to your house, came in and took pictures of your family and then departed within five or ten minutes?

Note that elephants occur frequently in the area and around the campsite and should not be harassed in any way; they are dangerous and unpredictable animals, and have killed people