Read 23 traveller reviews of Wolwedans Dune Lodge

Wolwedans Dune Lodge is situated on the NamibRand Nature Reserve in southern Namibia. Built along the top of a dune plateau and overlooking the desert in all directions, this is the most substantial of the Wolwedans Collection. The other camps include our favourite – Wolwedans Dune Camp and the luxurious Boulders Camp.

Each of the nine wooden chalets is built on stilts above the dunes. The bedrooms are stunning: solid wooden beds draped with mosquito nets and made up with high quality linen. Canvas blinds form the wall panels and these can be rolled up revealing magnificent views of the surrounding desert. Stargaze from your bed then awaken to a front-row view of the sunrise! The remainder of the room is spacious and the furniture includes a luggage chest, writing desk and comfortable seats. A wooden split-level deck surrounds each room and features in-built benches, relaxing sun loungers and canvas directors' chairs.

Each chalet has an en suite bathroom with a shower, flush toilet and his and hers basins. Complimentary soaps and sensuous lotions are added luxuries.

Walkways over the dunes connect the rooms to the hub of the camp – an assortment of canvas and wood rooms built up on a large wooden platform. There is a comfortable bar and lounge with leather armchairs, a separate library and two dining rooms. Meals are usually eaten together with your hosts, around a large table, and the food is excellent. A variety of 'sundowner' decks surround the main complex, including a tea deck and one with an open fireplace. A really special feature is the chilled wine cellar which houses a selection of really good wines!

As with the rooms, the focus is on the surrounding desert and each space is open to the outside allowing you to enjoy the spectacular views. The variety of the recreational spots at Wolwedans Dune Lodge makes relaxing here a wonderful pastime without feeling anyone else is invading your space. There is also has a swimming pool which is suspended above the sand, set in another large wooden deck built up on stilts. Comfortable sun loungers shaded by umbrellas are the perfect place to unwind after a refreshing swim.

Activities at Wolwedans Dune Lodge focus on exploring all the fascinating facets of the Namib desert – the world's oldest desert. The programme for a two night stay usually begins with an afternoon nature drive when you arrive, followed by a full-day excursion including a picnic lunch. There is the option for a morning and afternoon drive split by time to relax at the lodge for visitors who'd just like to sit back and take in the magnificent surroundings.

In conclusion… Wolwedans Dune Lodge offers uniquely styled accommodation which gives the feeling of luxury combined with the great outdoors – or in this case the spectacular outdoors! Although it can form part of any self-drive or fly-in itinerary to Namibia, Wolwedans works best as the highlight at the end when you're able to sit back and enjoy great guiding, lovely accommodation and delicious food.

Lodge overview

Lodge type: Safari

No. of bedrooms: 9 Chalets

Season: Open Year Round

Ideal length of stay: It's best to spend at least two nights at Wolwedans Dune Lodge in order to really enjoy the desert surroundings.

Geographics

Location: Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

Directions: The NamibRand Nature Reserve is situated about 400 km south-west of Windhoek. Wolwedans Dune Camp is only a short transfer away from the main farmhouse/reception. Upon arrival at the NamibRand Reserve, follow the signs to the Wolwedans farmhouse/reception, about 20km's from the main gate. Your guide will transfer you to the lodge after you've checked in.

Accessible by: Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Key personnel

Owner: Stephan Bruckner

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board

Food quality: Meals are usually hosted in the dining room, around large communal tables. However, individual tables are sometimes set up or can be requested depending on your preference. The menu is often presented by the chefs in their mother tongue followed by the English translation. A breakfast buffet includes freshly baked breads with a selection of fruit salad, yogurt, cereals, and cheeses, different cuts of cold meat and tea or coffee. Cooked options are also available. Lunch is usually a picnic laid out in the desert whilst on a full day activity or a choice of a light meal at the lodge. A delicious three of four course meal is served back at the lodge each evening. There is no set timing for dinner as the chef waits until all the guests have returned from their various excursions.

Dining style: Group Meals

Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining

Room service: No

Drinks included: Most drinks are included at Wolwedans Dune Lodge. The exception is premium brand whiskies or French champagne which can be ordered and paid for locally.

Special interests

Honeymoons: The NamibRand desert landscapes have a romance all of their own. Honeymooners will love the views as well as being superbly looked after in comfort at Wolwedans Dune Lodge. A special treat, well worth considering, if for a bed to be made up on the private deck of your room ready for a night under the spectacular desert sky. - See more of our suggestions of the best places for honeymoons in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children: Wolwedans Dune Lodge is happy to have families with children aged 12 years and over. Children younger than 12 can be accommodated on request and provided they remain under their parent's supervision.

Generally recommended for children: Expert Africa doesn't recommend Wolwedan's Dune Lodge for children under the age of 12 years as it is felt that the lack of facilities may not capture the interest of youngsters.

Central communications

Power supply: Solar Power - Limited

Communications: There are no communication services available to guests at the Wolwedans Dune Lodge. However, the reception does have internet and telephone connections which can be used in an urgent matter.

Health & safety

Malarial area: No

Medical care: The closest doctor is in the town of Mariental. For any emergencies, an aircraft is available at the private Wolwedans airstrip to transfer guests to Windhoek.

Dangerous animals: Low Risk

Fire safety: Fire extinguishers are strategically placed around the camp.

Extras

Disabled access: On Request

Laundry facilities: A laundry service is available at an extra charge.

Accepted payment: All major credit cards are accepted at Wolwedans Dune Lodge.

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