Desert Homestead Lodge | Sossusvlei
The Desert Homestead is a tranquil and unfussy lodge near Sossusvlei. Comfortable thatch chalets compliment the rich tapestry of the Namib Desert and the main living area is a serene salutation of the passing days.
While close to Sesriem and Sossusvlei, The Desert Homestead is more about a tranquil experience of the Namib Desert on horseback than the spectacle of the great sand dunes.
The lodge is made up of beautiful thatch-roofed pastel-walled chalets that lend themselves to the quiet charm of this magical region. Inside the 27 chalets (including a family room), the serenity continues: soft, white linens against dark furniture and whitewashed walls. Private verandahs look out over the plain that is framed by craggy mountains in every direction.
The main lodge is a light and airy mix of open relaxation and cosy retreat. Hearty homestead meals are enriched by the setting and with home-grown ingredients. The swimming pools provide languid refreshment after a hot day's riding.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Half Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Activities
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
No. Rooms: 26
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Gourmet, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
All Chalets offer:
• Private shaded sun decks with deck chairs
• Tea and coffee facilities
• Mosquito nets
• Separate bathrooms
• Twin beds
• Electricity 24 hrs
• Paved and well-lit access
• Air condition, solar-powered
27 Chalets,
1 Family Chalet with 2 double bed, 2 single beds, shared bathroom
Family Chalet 'Reiterhaus' consists of one bedroom with a double bed and one bedroom with two single beds with shared bathroom.
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Bar, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Detached Private Bathroom, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Credit Card, Room Service
EXPERIENCE THE NAMIB
DESERT ON HORSEBACK
For the more adventurous spirit, Desert Homestead Lodge offers a unique experience where guests can ride out onto the private reserve and sleep out in nature. The reserve is situated between the majestic red sand sea of the Namib Desert and the rugged Naukluft mountains.
Leaving the stables and lodge behind, an unforgettable journey set off through wide open plains riding over a varied terrain changing from soft, sandy, stretched open fields, to rockier mountain trails, through dry riverbeds, under social weavers nests and around camelthorn trees.
The experienced guide will eagerly tell more about the environment, fauna and flora. Riders are almost guaranteed to come across a herd or two of grazing Oryx, springbok, or Zebra and some varieties of smaller carnivores, such as Jackal and bat-eared foxes.
Riding takes place at a comfortable pace so that everyone feels comfortable. Slower riders can hang back while more experienced riders go for long stretched-out gallops over grassy plains while winding the way towards the tented Camp, where refreshments await for a truly remarkable sundowner with magnificent views. After watching the sunset over the majestic mountains it’s time to kick off the boots, relax and enjoy the Namibian night skies. While Dinner gets ready on the campfire true Namibian style a refreshing shower awaits.
Dinner is served next to the crackling fire whilst conversation is sure to revert to the day riding. Then it’s time to retire to the comfortable tent or even a stretcher outside, for those who prefer to sleep out in nature under starry skies to get some rest before the next day’s riding.
Riders will wake up the next morning to the smell of coffee brewing and bacon and eggs cooking over an open fire while watching the horses being prepared for the next stretch of riding. After a hearty breakfast, it is time to stretch the legs once again and set off on horses who eagerly await the rest of the adventure.
This experience can be tailored. There are three different offers.
The ‚Namib Night‘ begins in the afternoon and consists of two stages of riding and one overnight stay in tents. The ‚Desert Experience‘ begins early in the morning and has three stages slightly
longer riding with an overnight stay in tents.
‚Stars of the Namib‘ with five stages of riding and two overnight stays (Namib Outpost / tented camp) offers a very intense experience for horse lovers, coupled with the exploration of nature in the Namib Desert. Riding to the next destination is done during the cooler time of the day while enjoying some lunch and downtime during the heat of the day.
Horses vary from very tame and easy to ride -even if for those who have never ridden before-, to ones that are just as easily manageable, but willing and able to give a more exciting ride.
Beginners are just as welcome to join on this adventure as more experienced riders.
SOSSUSVLEI EXCURSION
• Drive to the Sossusvlei dunes in a safari 4x4 vehicle accompanied by a Guide with in-depth knowledge of the area
• Departure seasonally, depending on national park opening hours. Activity is possible in the early morning or afternoon (in the morning preferably for photography – departing before sunrise. In the afternoon preferably for experiencing the dunes more in private, fewer visitors will be there)
• Minimum of 2 guests or single supplement applicable; small groups only (maximum of 6 guests per vehicle)
• Activity duration is approx. 1⁄2 a day (approx. 6 – 7 hours)
• Rate includes a picnic in the dunes, guide, water, entrance fees
SUNDOWNER DRIVE
On the Witwater Reserve – 7000 ha.
• A relaxing way to end the day and enjoy beautiful views and a sundowner with drinks and snacks
• Starts in the afternoon and lasts 2 – 2 1⁄2 hours, departure times change seasonally; guests are back at the lodge just before dinner
• Minimum of 2 guests or a single supplement applicable, max. 6 guests per vehicle
• Includes sundowner-drinks and snacks
OTHER ACTIVITIES IN THE AREA
• Quad biking
• Hot air ballooning
• Scenic flights
The team at Desert Homestead Lodge will be happy to organize all activities of other providers in the area.
The reception team informs the guests in detail about the start and departure times, depending on the season, as well as about meeting points, equipment, clothes etc. of the activities of the next day during the dinner.
For participation in afternoon activities, check-in is necessary until 2 p.m. In the case of a later arrival, it is not possible to guarantee a performance or attendance due to the different start times.
Camp Kipwe | Damaraland
One of our favourites in the Damaraland area near Twyfelfontein, Camp Kipwe is intimate, stylish and quirky with an incredible view.
As unassuming as a Damara lean-to and as luxurious as a big-city hotel, Camp Kipwe is another iconic Namibian safari lodge from the ingenious creators of Onguma Tented Camp and Mowani Mountain Camp.
In design Camp Kipwe embraces the distinctive Damaraland scenery: massive red-purple granite boulders piled atop each other form inselbergs separated by carpets of blonde grass peppered with acacia trees.
While every item of furniture and every detail of the decor and construction at Camp Kipwe bears a striking resemblance to the striking scenery of the Aba Huab River Valley, the luxury offered within these wobbly walls raises the royal finger to the stark aridity of Damaraland's endless plains.
Built of stone, thatch and an impressive collection of slightly off-straight tree trunks and branches, Camp Kipwe is at once charming, authentic and something unique in this world of carbon-copied safari lodges.
Camp Kipwe is near Twyfelfontein in Damaraland, Namibia: a place of singular beauty and unimaginable tranquillity. The lodge has just nine dome-suites with polished floors, en suite bathrooms partially open and built into the enclosing boulders and a large deck that opens out to the glorious view across the valley. The Kipwe Suite is a step up from these with a private lounge and open-air bath tub. Take it up another notch and stay in one of two Luxury Suites with an even more spectacular view and a stocked minibar, heated splash pool and private sala. Stay for two nights in a Luxury Suite and they'll throw in your laundry service and a private dining option. The living area is a collection of larger domes, split level decks, a rock pool, lounge, dining area and curio shop.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
No. Rooms: 10
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
The twin-bedded bungalows are in the shape of rondavels and have boulder, cement and rock walls ensuring that on entry, feel like a cool secluded cave with outside decks to admire the view. The en-suite, private bathrooms are built amongst the rocks, allowing guests to take advantage of the outdoor weather. Hot water is supplied by wood-burning ‘donkey’ boilers and solar geysers.
The Kipwe Suite is an air-conditioned, luxury elevated thatched suite that has a private lounge equipped with a satellite television and minibar with drinks included. The large double room with king-size bed opens up onto an en-suite open air bathroom with a beautiful bath area.
The Luxury Suites sit atop of the rocky outcrop and feature a large lounge with separate air-conditioned bedroom, and en-suite bathroom before spilling out on to a large deck with spectacular, uninterrupted views across the Damaraland landscape. Equipped with Wi-Fi, a stocked minibar, heated splash pool and private salas to soak up the vistas.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, En-Suite, Hair Dryer, Mini Bar, Shower, Verandah
Services
Credit Card, Room Service
Explore this ancient and arid landscape with your guide on the Nature Drive. Departing early in the morning, the guide will show you that this harsh, dry environment is alive with desert-adapted flora and fauna, and perhaps, if lucky, discover the desert-adapted elephant.
Usually departs at 06h30 and will go out for +/- 4 – 6 hours.
Drinks & snacks are included.
Departing mid-afternoon your guide will take you to explore this diverse landscape of ancient Damaraland, filled with geological wonders and other surprises.
Learn about the fascinating geological formations of Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes, and discover Namibia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Twyfelfontein - known for being one of the largest and oldest collections of San rock art engravings in the world!
Usually departs at 15h00 and will last for +/-2 hours. along with seeing Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes.
Relax and watch a magical and memorable sunset.
Walk up to the sundowner location and make yourself comfortable. Order your drink of choice, or choose from one of our famous cocktails or mocktails and delight in sumptuous snacks.
Mushara Bush Camp | Etosha East
Mushara Bush Camp is a luxury family-focused safari lodge in a private reserve on the eastern edge of Etosha National Park.
With an emphasis on family fun, Mushara Bush Camp is the newest addition to the impressive Mushara collection of safari lodges located in a private reserve 10km from the eastern gate of Etosha National Park.
Accommodation consists of 16 luxurious tented suites, four of which have additional beds to accommodate children. With plenty of privacy, large canvas doors and windows, en suite bathrooms and a private outside seating area, the chalets are pure bush luxury.
The main living area is a delightful thatch and wood structure with an inviting fire setting the mood from sunset onwards. A pool is an essential item in the hot African bush and the cool interior of the thatched house offers a memorable dining experience with the stars and sounds of the night all around you.
Children are especially well catered for with professional child minders, special meals, early dinner, a play area with a jungle gym, tractor and kiddie’s pool.
Game drives into Etosha Park are led by experienced guides in custom-built safari vehicles. Game viewing in Etosha is exceptional with waterholes surrounding the large shimmering pan and plenty of big game including rhino, elephants, lions, cheetahs and a host of large antelope, birds and smaller fascinating creatures.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Half Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Activities
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 16
Special Interests: Adventure, Nature, Wildlife
Each of the 4 custom made en-suite family tents is built from canvas, wood and local limestone. With an 8 m2 private veranda and windows from floor to ceiling, these tents are spacious and airy. The large bathroom has a big window and the shower offers views into the surrounding bush.
Each family tent accommodates a maximum of 2 adults plus 3 children 12 years and younger.
A coffee station, safe deposit box, mosquito net, socket for charging storage batteries, hair drier and floor fan are standard. Wifi is available at rooms/tents and common areas
Each of the 12 custom made en-suite tents is built from canvas, wood and local limestone. With an 8 m2 private veranda and windows from floor to ceiling, these tents are spacious and airy. The large bathroom has a big window and the shower offers views into the surrounding bush. Each double tent accommodates a maximum of 2 guests.
A coffee station, safe deposit box, mosquito net, socket for charging storage batteries, hair drier and floor fan are standard. Wifi is available at rooms/tents and common areas.
Property Facilities
Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant
Room Facilities
En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Babysitting Service, Credit Card
Etosha National Park Game Drive
Located just 9 km from the Mushara Collection, Etosha National Park is a magnificent game reserve in the northern part of Namibia, covering a vast area of 22,270 km². If you're a wildlife enthusiast, this park is a must-visit destination as it is home to dozens of mammal and reptile species, several amphibian species, and over 300 bird species.
It's the perfect place to witness Namibia's greatest daily wildlife dramas unfold. Joining a game drive with Mushara's experienced and enthusiastic guides, you can learn about the Etosha pan, the flora and fauna, and the diverse animal species that roam the park. The game viewing vehicles are designed to withstand any weather condition, providing a spacious and comfortable ride with 360-degree unobstructed views from elevated seats. Thanks to the guides' up-to-date information on game movements, they have a high success rate for spotting game, ensuring your visit is a truly memorable experience.
Mushara Bush Camp Restaurant
The main Bush Camp House is thatched and has a true bush camp feel to it. The early evenings see a campfire lit where guest can exchange stories of the day’s wildlife sightings. Dinner, lunch and breakfast are served on the thatched veranda with the bush being a mere step away.