Reviews of Kulala Desert Lodge
Wildlife sightings and reviews
353 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Kulala Desert Lodge and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
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"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
Once again staff here made a huge effort to connect and play with our children. A special mention to the amazing, multi-talented Stephen who seemed never to stop working, yet always had a smile and time for our 8 year old daughter. The Wilderness lodge info supplied in the room mentions a special 'Children's Programme", but when we asked for more info, it seems that consisted merely of staff like Stephen being trained to play with the kids, which he did brilliantly. Perhaps Wilderness could give this a little more thought and add some other activities, as the attention they give to children already differentiates them from everywhere else we stayed, but could be improved upon.
The private entrance onto the main Sossusvlei road is a real bonus, giving a head start into the dunes in the morning. Although pricey, paying for a guide and therefore access was well worth it in our opinion. Less worthwhile in our opinion would be the guided tour to Sesriem Canyon which was easy to visit and explore under our own steam.
Food was outstandingly good at Kulala, especially considering the location, and the main area is really beautiful with a very relaxed, chilled out vibe. Rooms were also comfortable, and despite the cold nights we loved the opportunity to stargaze on the roof, snuggled up together in one giant bed.
Sadly, and ironically given the name, we didn't sleep well at Kulala. The position of our room and the dawn starts for trips to the dunes meant that we were woken very early each day by vehicle noise, and by the sound of the generator starting up. Although the latter is vital to the function of the camp, maybe something could be done to dampen the noise it makes.
Otherwise we loved our stay and are very glad we chose Kulala." See all these reviews: 22n in Namibia
Oryx
Multiple sightings
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
The staff was exceedingly kind and responsive (our kids felt particularly welcomed here). The rooms were comfortable and private. The food was excellent.
We were grateful for staff members who took the time to point out interesting wildlife as we enjoyed the view of the waterhole and sunset.
Our guide for our Big Daddy dune hike was informative and very helpful." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
Brown Hyena
Multiple sightings
Giraffe
Multiple sightings
Oryx
Multiple sightings
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
We particularly appreciated the log fire in the evenings.
Our guide was fantastic." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia; 4n in Botswana; 2n in Zimbabwe
Brown Hyena
1 sighting
Oryx
Multiple sightings
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
I would like to say I wish I had been advised to fly from Windhoek to Sossusvlei. I remember being advised specifically that the roads in Namibia were good. This was definitely not the case for our drive. To make matters worse the transport company that Expert Africa contracted to transfer us from Windhoek to Kulala sent us a vehicle with four extremely worn/bald tires, and only one spare. We had a flat tire within a few hours of our 7-hour journey. And then about an hour later incurred TWO more flats. No spares.
Took over 3 1/2 hours to get a helpful response from the transport company. Kept getting told it would be 20-30 minutes, multiple times. Finally reached out to Expert Africa after continuing to get the runaround from transport company management. The response from Expert Africa was not what I really expected, It was lackluster to say the least.
Tracy at the England office answered our call and did not offer much help, saying that she was going off shift shortly and advised us to essentially wait a couple hours if problem not resolved on its own and contact our booking agent in New Zealand when it became working hours in her time zone. Not an acceptable response after being stuck on the side of the road in the middle of Namibia for nearly 3 hours at that point. Very disappointing support experience when trouble arose.
It would also be nice if the transportation company contracted by expert africa would consider supplying at least some bottled water to drink. It’s a simple and inexpensive courtesy that I was shocked was not offered. As stated we were stuck on side of road for a total of nearly 4 hours, and did not have enough water to drink, the store at Solitare was closed by the time we made it to that pit stop area." See all these reviews: 7n in Zambia; 5n in Namibia; 3n in Botswana
We are also sorry that when they contacted Expert Africa, our response appeared to be less than helpful. After speaking to the driver and ascertaining that a spare was definitely on its way, we contacted Kulala Desert Lodge to ensure they were aware of the situation and would be ready with a meal upon their arrival, and we contacted the transfer company. The transfer company agreed that the vehicle had not set off with tyres most suited to the gravel roads travelled. They promised to rectify this for the onward transfer to the coast, swiftly replacing all four tyres and fitting new spares. At the end of the transfers, they presented the group with a gift basket as a small token of apology for the punctures and delays.
"Manager"
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
The meals were our favourite on this trip. There was a choice of main courses and very good house wines were included.
The nature drives and the trip to Sossuvlei were excellent and our ranger Richel was very knowledgeable and looked after us very well. She gave us a guide to the night sky after dinner." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia
Oryx
10 sightings
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
Service is hard to beat, especially with very generous wine top ups at lunch and dinner. The pool proved to be invaluable.
Our guide Boykey knew his business and gave us great tours of the surrounding area, even with complicating strong winds, which probably limited our wildlife viewing.
Nonetheless a fantastic and very relaxing stay." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia
Oryx
10 sightings
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
We were priviliged to be alone on Dune 45 and our guide (Mathew) also took us to Deadvlei and Sossusvlei." See all these reviews: 17n in Namibia
Oryx
10 sightings
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
The activities were first rate, the 'regulation' climb of dune 45 was fun and gave us great views, coming down the side in giant steps was a great feeling. Markus, our guide was first rate. He also took us for a walk the following morning down the dry river bed and pointed out all sorts of things of interest.
I'd recommend Kuala to anyone, especially as its location puts you close the the park and ahead of the crowd." See all these reviews: 7n in Namibia
Oryx
3 sightings
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
We appreciated the warm welcome with flannel and drink.
The swimming pool was nice and clean.
The food was of a high standard.
Our guide introduced herself to us on the deck. We had a chat about our excursions, she was friendly and enthusiastic. The tours were excellent. We appreciated the cold water/drinks and food that was provided. She was knowledgeable and happy to stop for us to take photographs/ask questions.
Our guide, Richel, did a fantastic job of changing the flat tyre whilst we enjoyed our sundowner of drinks, with nuts and billtong etcetera. We did feel a little guilty... but still enjoyed our treats.
We loved sleeping under the stars, and hearing/seeing the wildlife." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia
Oryx
7 sightings
Spotted Hyena
1 sighting
Zebra
3 sightings
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
We decided Pay the extra money to get driven into Sossusvlei after a day of driving the dirt roads from Windhoek the day before. It was worth it! We were the first up Big Daddy dune! If that is important to you, do it. And, we learned a lot about the dunes at the same time." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia; 3n in Botswana
Oryx
5 sightings
Zebra
4 sightings
Holiday styles & special interests in Namibia
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Other lodges in Namib-Naukluft National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Hoodia Desert Lodge
The owner-run Hoodia Desert Lodge offers a high standard of accommodation, delicious food and excellent service in a stunning, peaceful setting just 22km from Sesriem.
BullsPort Lodge & Farm
A traditional Namibian farm, BullsPort offers warm hospitality and a genuine rural experience, with excellent hiking and horseriding.
Sossus Dune Lodge
One of only two properties inside the Namib Naukluft Park, Sossus Dune Lodge has a superb location, for visiting the dunes.
Desert Homestead
With great-value accommodation in a lovely setting, Desert Homestead is a great base for exploring Sossusvlei.
Zebra River Lodge
Zebra River Lodge offers a range of hikes around the Tsaris Mountains from a comfortable and homely base.
Little Kulala
A high-end lodge with spectacular views, Little Kulala, makes a great base for visits to Sossusvlei or a balloon ride over the Desert.
Rostock Ritz
The igloo-style chalets at Rostock Ritz offer exceptional desert views and make a convenient stopover between Swakopmund & Sossusvlei.
Barkhan Dune Retreat
Barkhan Dune Retreat is a welcoming lodge close to the impressive Spreetshoogte Pass, majors on hiking and relaxation.
Sossusvlei Lodge
Sossusvlei Lodge is one of the larger options in this area. However, it occupies a convenient location next to the Sesriem gate into the Namib-Naukluft Park.
Namib Outpost
About 30km from the gate to Sossusveli, Namib Outpost is a great base for exploring the dunes and surrounding attractions.
Dead Valley Lodge
Dead Valley Lodge is inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, affording guests almost unprecedented access to the dunes.
Desert Camp
Desert Camp is an economical option for independent travellers who want to self-cater, and is well situated for access to Sossusvlei.
Desert Quiver Camp
Desert Quiver Camp is an economical option self-catering, well located for access to Sossusvlei.
Corona Guest Farm
In central Namibia, north-east of the Namib-Naukluft, Corona Guest Farm offers a traditional farm stay and rugged hiking.
Elegant Desert Lodge
Elegant Desert Lodge can be used as a base to visit Sossusvlei. It offers comfortable accommodation and facilities in the desert.
Namib Naukluft Lodge
Namib Naukluft Lodge offers clean, comfortable rooms with pretty views, although it's 60km from the Sesriem Gate into the Namib-Naukluft Park.
Sonop
Away from the hustle and bustle of the area immediately surrounding Sossussvlei, Sonop offers a luxurious stay in a remote part of the Namib Desert.
Namib Desert Lodge
Namib Desert Lodge is a good budget option in the Namib-Naukluft although, it is further from Sossusvlei than we'd typically suggest.
Le Mirage Lodge
Le Mirage Resort and Spa offers accommodation and a range of massage and beauty treatments in a Moroccan-style building in the desert.
Solitaire Country Lodge
Solitaire Country Lodge is a good stop-off on the way to Sossusvlei and can be used as a base to explore the Naukluft Mountains.
Desert Hills Camp
Conveniently located for the renowned dunes of Sossusvlei Desert Hills Glamping Camp offers a simple but comfortable tents in picturesque surroundings.
Desert Grace
A stylish offering giving access to the famous dunes in the Namib-Naukluft National Park as well as to activities on a private nature reserve.
Camp Sossus
Camp Sossus is a offers top notch guiding in a remote wilderness area of the Naukluft Mountains with easy access to the famous dunes of Sossusvlei.
The Nest
Designed to emulate the appearance of a sociable weaver nest the opulent Nest at Sossus is arguably the most exclusive private property in the Sossuvlei area.
