Huab Lodge, nestled in an 8,000-hectare nature reserve in Damaraland, Namibia, is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding rugged landscape. Built in 1993 with local materials, the lodge was created to support the conservation of desert-adapted elephants. The stone and thatch bungalows offer guests private, scenic views from the elevated north bank of the Huab River, providing a peaceful retreat.
The lodge features a natural hot spring, where visitors can unwind in warm mineral baths after a day spent tracking elephants along the Huab and Aba-Huab Rivers. Guests can also relax by the swimming pool while watching colourful birds at the nearby birdbath.
Meals are served at a communal family table, fostering a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Sustainability is a key focus at Huab Lodge, which utilizes solar energy and follows environmentally responsible practices. Visitors are invited to experience the tranquility and beauty of the lodge's pristine wilderness, offering the perfect escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Huab Lodge’s eight spacious, extensively refurbished, stone and thatch bungalows - accommodating a maximum of 16 guests – are spread along the elevated north bank of the river ensuring a magnificent and private view of the Huab River Valley, even from the shower!
Each bungalow has a large private patio and is tastefully furnished with two extra-long double beds. Large windows and sliding doors allow in both light and a view across the Huab. There is in fact no need to even close the curtains – rather watch the stars and listen to the calls of owls and barking geckos as you drift off to sleep.
The Lodge provides 24-hour 220-volt power thanks to a silent solar energy plant concealed on the hill, and the chemically untreated water has a neutral pH value.
Each chalet is equipped with mosquito nets and a ceiling fan, and while there are no coffee and tea facilities inside the rooms, an early morning beverage can easily be arranged should guests request such.
This luxurious two-story honeymoon chalet, set in the heart of the African savanna, offering an intimate retreat on the banks of the ephemeral Huab River. Surrounded by breathtaking wilderness areas, the chalet seamlessly blends modern comforts with the natural beauty of its surroundings.
The spacious, open-plan design features elegant furnishings, a private balcony with sweeping views of the Huab River Valley, and large windows that invite the outdoors in. The ground floor includes a cozy lounge area and a well-appointed- kitchen and bathroom. Upstairs, the master bedroom offers panoramic views and a private balcony where guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush. This bathroom boasts a luxurious soaking tub, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
The serenity of the surrounding landscape, coupled with the luxury of the accommodations, creates an ideal escape for couples seeking a secluded and memorable experience in nature.
Activity Desk, Bar, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Balcony / Deck, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Airport Shuttle (Available)
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided)
Bird Watching, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Hiking, Historical Tours
Offered either before or after breakfast, the best time to do these walks is before the sun reaches its zenith as, even in winter, temperatures can rise to 30 degrees during the day and most animals prefer to find shelter during that time of the day. Longer walking routes for the fitter, or more adventurous guest, can be offered though.
A drive is offered in a game viewer vehicle, departing the lodge after breakfast to explore the nature reserve and the beauty of the morning.
Another drive is offered in the late afternoon, taking in the magnificent Namibian sunset, along, of course, with the obligatory sun-downer!
Stargazing doesn’t have to be only after dinner: sometimes you can best view Saturn, Venus, or Jupiter and his moons, before sunrise . . .
Over the years, Huab Lodge, which is situated in habitats where several endemic or near endemic Namibian bird species occur, has become a ‘Mecca’ for bird watchers and photographers alike.
Among its 210 bird species, the area boasts 9 of the endemic desert bird species including; Hartlaub spurfowl, Rüppel’s parrot, Southern Violet wood hoopoe, Monteiro’s hornbill, Carp’s tit, Barecheeked babbler, Damara rockrunner, and White-tailed shrike.
In late September the Madagascar Bee-eater arrives to breed in Namibia, staying until mid-April, while the Violet-backed starling, Rosy-faced lovebirds, and the boisterous Bare-cheeked babbler can be seen from lodge itself all year round. At sunset, visitors enjoying a sundowner in the main building are also in for a very special surprise!
There are also many mammal and reptile species that are of particular interest in the semi-desert environment at Huab Lodge.
This full day activity starts with a quick 7am coffee before departure. With fences having, for the most part, been removed in the Damaraland area, the desert-adapted elephant are free to roam the entire area and the morning will be spent exploring both the Huab and Aba-Huab rivers, in search of these magnificent behemoths.
At lunchtime, we will find a shady spot to stop and have a bite, before starting the slow meander back to the lodge, stopping off at some unusual and unique sites along the way, aiming to return to the lodge before sunset.
Departing from the Lodge, at a pre-arranged time, we will head into the dry Huab riverbed. We will take a leisurely journey, meandering along the ephemeral river, looking for the near-endemic bird species as well as flora and fauna. Perhaps we will even spot the illusive desert-adapted elephants for which the Damaraland area is world-renowned.
We will have ample opportunities to enjoy the amazing scenery, stretch our legs and explore, before returning to the lodge at about 12:30.
Heading to the East, away from the Huab River valley, onto the neighbouring farm where there are examples of San art and rock engravings. Damaraland has been inhabited by indigenous tribes for more than 2,000 years and this excursion offers an interesting look at both the ancient and modern history of Namibia.
Huab Lodge restaurant Serve delicious home cooked meals, local is "lekker".
In keeping with the ambience at Huab, meals are enjoyed at a family table. Here it’s about making friends, exchanging opinions, kicking off your shoes, and making yourself at home.