Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy is a protected area in Namibia.

Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy at a Glance

Location
Southern Interior & Fish River Canyon, Namibia, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-28.388622, 20.205986
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
None
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry winter) for Etosha wildlife. Year-round for Sossusvlei and the Skeleton Coast.

Getting to Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

Nearest airport: Augrabies Airport, 29 km away.

Big Five in Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Leopard Tortoise.

Weather & Climate in Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

The warmest temperatures in Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy occur in January, averaging 28.9°C (up to 35.5°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 12.9°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 2.2mm. Average humidity: 39.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 28.9°C (rainfall: 36.1mm)
  • February: 28.2°C (rainfall: 20.9mm)
  • March: 26.0°C (rainfall: 19.7mm)
  • April: 22.2°C (rainfall: 4.2mm)
  • May: 18.4°C (rainfall: 4.4mm)
  • June: 14.3°C (rainfall: 15.8mm)
  • July: 12.9°C (rainfall: 2.2mm)
  • August: 14.9°C (rainfall: 2.3mm)
  • September: 18.6°C (rainfall: 4.0mm)
  • October: 23.7°C (rainfall: 12.8mm)
  • November: 25.5°C (rainfall: 5.7mm)
  • December: 26.9°C (rainfall: 23.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

The best months to visit Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 28.89°C, rainfall 36.1mm, sunshine 12.7 hrs, humidity 31%
  • February: Great, temperature 28.19°C, rainfall 20.9mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 32.1%
  • March: Great, temperature 26.04°C, rainfall 19.7mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 34.6%
  • April: Great, temperature 22.23°C, rainfall 4.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 34.9%
  • May: Great, temperature 18.36°C, rainfall 4.4mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 34.9%
  • June: Great, temperature 14.27°C, rainfall 15.8mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 43.9%
  • July: Great, temperature 12.95°C, rainfall 2.2mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 39%
  • August: Great, temperature 14.93°C, rainfall 2.3mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 35.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 18.64°C, rainfall 4mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 28.7%
  • October: Great, temperature 23.67°C, rainfall 12.8mm, sunshine 11.9 hrs, humidity 25.9%
  • November: Great, temperature 25.51°C, rainfall 5.7mm, sunshine 12.7 hrs, humidity 23.8%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.94°C, rainfall 23.6mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 29.2%

Wildlife in Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

Home to 13 recorded species including 3 birds of prey, 2 iconic birds, 2 big herbivores, 2 antelope & gazelle, 2 reptiles, 1 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

Based on average temperature of 21.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 33%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 22°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

1 safari lodges available.

budget

Similar Parks in Southern Interior & Fish River Canyon

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Namibia

Travel advisory for Namibia

Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy FAQs

What unique landscapes and wildlife can I expect at Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy in Namibia?

Riemvasmaak, as a community conservancy in Namibia, offers rugged, arid landscapes, often featuring dramatic rock formations and dry riverbeds. Visitors can expect to encounter desert-adapted wildlife such as oryx, springbok, various bird species, and potentially smaller predators, thriving in this unique environment. The focus is often on appreciating the stark beauty and resilience of life in the desert.

What is the best time of year to visit Riemvasmaak for wildlife viewing and comfortable travel?

The dry season, typically from May to October, is ideal for visiting Riemvasmaak as animals congregate around more limited water sources, making them easier to spot. Temperatures are also more moderate during this period, providing comfortable conditions for exploring the conservancy. This time offers clearer skies for photography and generally easier navigation on unpaved roads.

Are there specific activities or cultural experiences offered at Riemvasmaak due to its 'Community Conservancy' status?

Yes, as a community conservancy, Riemvasmaak often provides unique opportunities for visitors to engage with local communities, potentially through guided walks, cultural tours, or visits to local craft markets. These experiences offer a deeper understanding of the region's heritage and directly support local livelihoods. It's advisable to inquire about available community-led activities upon planning your visit.

What are the typical accommodation options and cost considerations for a safari at Riemvasmaak?

Accommodation at Riemvasmaak typically ranges from rustic campsites to self-catering chalets, reflecting its community-focused and often self-drive nature. Costs are generally more budget-friendly compared to luxury private reserves, making it an accessible option for independent travelers seeking an authentic experience. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

What are the self-drive conditions and safety tips for exploring Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy?

Given its remote nature, Riemvasmaak is primarily explored via self-drive, requiring a 4x4 vehicle for navigating sandy tracks and rocky terrain. It's crucial to carry sufficient water, fuel, and a spare tire, and to inform someone of your travel plans due to limited cell reception in certain areas. Always adhere to conservancy rules and respect wildlife from a safe distance.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Bradt Guide: Namibia by Chris McIntyre - Comprehensive guide to Namibia - Etosha, Sossusvlei, Skeleton Coast, Damaraland. Self-drive routes, camp reviews, and wildlife guides.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.