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Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge
Huab Lodge

About Huab Lodge

Huab Lodge is situated on a private reserve overlooking the ephemeral Huab River; it was one of Namibia's ...

... first small, owner-run lodges. Following the covid-19 pandemic, Huab has reopened under new ownership. We have not had a chance to visit yet, so the information here reflects things as they were on our last visit.

Huab Lodge is a little off Namibia's beaten tourist track and has neither teeming wildlife nor spectacular desert scenery, so it is often overlooked. However, those visitors that do make it to Huab find a real gem with excellent accommodation, good food, fascinating and inspiring company and a truly at home feeling! Huab Lodge regularly wins the 'lodge' of the year award from Namibia's hospitality association and it's easy to see why.

Our view

Huab Lodge is a little off Namibia's beaten tourist track and has neither teeming wildlife nor spectacular desert scenery, so it is often overlooked. However, those visitors that do make it to Huab find a real gem with excellent accommodation, good food, fascinating and inspiring company and a truly at home feeling! Huab Lodge regularly wins the 'lodge' of the year award from Namibia's hospitality association and it's easy to see why.

Karen Sharpe

Karen Sharpe

Namibia expert

Accommodation

8 chalets

Children

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Huab Lodge

28 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


90%
28 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
17
Good
9
Average
1
Poor
1
Terrible
0
Peter & OlgafromFrance

Arrived 30 Nov 2017, 2 nights

"Huab Lodge review"

"This was our third visit to Huab Lodge and it is a good place to chill out …" Read Peter & Olga’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Alan fromGlasgow

Arrived 12 Sep 2017, 2 nights

"a bumpy road to paradise"

"Huab was a lovely place to stay …" Read Alan ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr JfromNew York

Arrived 5 Jul 2017, 2 nights

"Really cool spot"

"Our family loved Huab lodge. The spot is beautiful and gives you the chance …" Read Mr J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms Q & Mr BfromUSA

Arrived 17 Oct 2016, 2 nights

"Huab Lodge review"

"Huab lodge consists of several lovely buildings, in a lovely location. Unfortun …" Read Ms Q & Mr B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

Mr HfromMichigan

Arrived 17 Oct 2016, 2 nights

"nice rooms and drive"

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs FfromBristol

Arrived 27 Sep 2016, 2 nights

"Milky Way at Huab"

"Wonderful stay - happy staff, knowledgable guiding, great rooms and food. …" Read Mr & Mrs F’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs & Mr SfromKent

Arrived 5 Sep 2015, 2 nights

"Huab Lodge review"

"Food and service really good. Enjoyed the evenings around the communal dining …" Read Mrs & Mr S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs RfromHereford

Arrived 3 Sep 2015, 2 nights

"Our third visit to Huab"

"We were very much looking forward to returning to Huab,and its peace and quiet, …" Read Mr & Mrs R’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Ms FJfromSW London

Arrived 24 Aug 2015, 2 nights

"Nothing special at Huab Lodge"

"Didn't particularly enjoy stay here. It was very crowded - the leaflet …" Read Ms FJ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Poor

Mr & Mrs W-JfromUK

Arrived 11 Aug 2014, 2 nights

"Huab Lodge review"

"Comfortable spacious bungalows which stayed cool throughout the heat of the day …" Read Mr & Mrs W-J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Huab Lodge reviews

Huab Lodge: Our full report

Huab Lodge is situated on a private reserve overlooking the ephemeral Huab River; it was one of Namibia's ...

... first small, owner-run lodges. Following the covid-19 pandemic, Huab has reopened under new ownership. We have not had a chance to visit yet, so the information here reflects things as they were on our last visit.

Some years ago the reserve where Huab Lodge currently stands was farmland and the site of human/animal conflict as farmers did what they could to keep desert elephant away from their fences and water points. Dismayed by the sight of overgrazing and the pressure on elephants to turn away from their traditional migration routes, the former owners Suzi and Jan bought three of the farms along the Huab River in the early 90's and set about taking down fences and regenerating the landscape.

These days, the Huab Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife as well as the rare desert elephant which are occasionally seen here. Huab lodge is well designed and comfortable, forming a great base from which to explore the reserve with Jan who is undoubtedly one of Namibia's top guides. But it is the warm welcome and wonderful hospitality offered by the hosts that often makes Huab a highlight for new visitors to Namibia and attracts many return guests. It is a great demonstration of how tourism can play an important part in conservation initiatives.

Huab Lodge's centerpiece is its large main building, called the Lapa. The Lapa is partly built into a granite outcrop and is an extensive lounge and dinging area covered by an enormous thatch roof with open sides and overlooking a small waterhole and the riverbed beyond. There is also a small curio shop, self-service bar and library here.

Below the Lapa there is a swimming pool ornamented with an island upon which stand interesting bird sculptures made of metal. A short walk away and at the edge of the river bed is a natural thermal spring captured in two small stone spa baths – the perfect spot for a dip under the stars! For guests who really want to treat themselves there's the option to book a session with the lodge's resident masseuse.

There are 8 spacious bungalows at Huab Lodge set in a staggered row up a slope - a design that ensures privacy for each room. The interior of each roomy bungalow is tastefully decorated with local materials and hand made furniture. There are two double beds, a table, chairs, mosquito nets and a ceiling fan. Tea/coffee making facilities and a flask of drinking water are set out on the table and a torch is provided. It is useful to have especially when walking back to your room at night!

Each bungalow has glass sliding doors that open out onto a large private verandah complete with deck chairs and a table. There are great views across the Huab river valley from here and the glass doors allow plenty of light to filter into the rooms. The modern en-suite bathrooms are fitted with twin basins and mirror, a flush toilet and a walk in shower. The shower wall is fitted with a window pane so you have a view whilst you wash! As part of Jan and Suzi's conservation ethos, they provide biodegradable soaps and shampoos. Fluffy towels and dressing gowns are also provided.

All activities at Huab Lodge are included in the price, and the guiding is of a high standard. The Huab River runs through the reserve and although it is dry for much of the year, a high water table provides sustenance to tall trees that grow along the banks and fills the odd small natural pool. This in turn attracts a variety of wildlife including Hartman's mountain zebra, giraffe, a variety of antelope and even the odd cheetah and occasional desert elephant. Spend time here on nature drives or fascinating walks . Huab is also an excellent site for ornithologists as many of Namibia's endemics are found here.

Geographics

Location
Damaraland, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
Two to three nights is recommended at Huab Lodge to give you time to enjoy each of the activities and excellent guiding offered here.
Directions
Huab Lodge is situated on the banks of the Huab River at the end of the D2706 road. The lodge is well signposted from the C35 road between the towns of Kamanjab and Khorixas.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
Meals are lively communal affairs at Huab Lodge with Suzi and Jan hosting the group around a long dining table in the Lapa.

Breakfast is usually made up of a selection comprising home baked breads, fresh orange juice, fruit salad, cereals, cheeses, different cuts of cold meat and tea or coffee.

A light lunch is served soon after midday and often includes fresh salads, vegetables, a selection of cold meats and a hot chicken or fish dish. Suzi believes in involving the local communities in tourism and conservation and when we visited she explained how she works with local villagers to grow much of the fresh and tasty produce that supplies the lodge.

In Huab Lodge tradition, the three course dinner is usually presented by the chef in her mother tongue, Damara, followed by the English translation. Jan adds to this with a recommended selection of South African wines to compliment the flavours. It's often a relaxed and sociable affair which guests really appreciate and enjoy.
Dining style
Group Meals
Dining locations
Indoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
No
Drinks included
Huab Lodge stocks a good selection of drinks including some lesser-known but personally sourced South African wines. All of these are included in the price.

Children

Attitude towards children
Children are welcome at Huab Lodge
Generally recommended for children
Yes
Notes
Each of the bungalows at Huab Lodge is furnished with two large double beds making them suitable as a triple or small family room.

Communications

Communications
Since no mobile phone network is available in this part of Namibia, Huab Lodge provides a complementary Wireless LAN and high speed Internet connection via satellite in all bungalows and the Lapa area.
Telephone and fax facilities are also available in the office.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The closest doctor or hospital is in the town of Outjo.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers are strategically placed throughout the lodge.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
A full laundry service is included for guests staying two or more nights.

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Huab Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Huab Lodge.


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When to go to Damaraland

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Huab Lodge in Damaraland


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Damaraland in January

In Damaraland, January marks the start of the rainy season. The rains, though often light and localised, bring life to the desert landscape.

At Twyfelfontein, the rock engravings glisten after sporadic showers. Some days are clear and hot, with temperatures around 30°C/86°F, while others see dramatic thunderstorms. These can create flash floods in ephemeral riverbeds like the Ugab, temporarily transforming the arid terrain. The greening landscape provides a refreshing backdrop for the ancient rock art at Brandberg Mountain.

Many birds in the region are in full breeding plumage, with migrant species adding to the variety. Wildlife, including the desert-adapted elephants, disperses across the rejuvenated landscape, making sightings more challenging, but rewarding. The Damara Living Museum offers insights into how local communities adapt to these seasonal changes.

  • Variable weather: hot, dry or humid with rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms
  • Wildlife dispersed, harder to spot
  • Stark mountains against atmospheric skies
  • Few tourists, low rates at accommodations

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Damaraland in February

February is typically the wettest month in Damaraland, though rainfall remains patchy across this predominantly arid region.

The Spitzkoppe granite peaks against thunderous, atmospheric skies create dramatic vistas for photographers. Some days are clear and hot, while others see afternoon thunderstorms that briefly but dramatically charge the landscape. These rains can make travel more challenging, especially to remote sites like the Epupa Falls. However, the landscape feels vibrant and alive, with insects and smaller animals more easily spotted, and seasonal flowers blooming. Many birds and animals are raising their young, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

Despite the rains, the rock art at Twyfelfontein and the Petrified Forest remain accessible.

  • Hot and humid with occasional rain showers
  • Thunderstorms meander over the landscape
  • Birdlife spectacular, migrant species present
  • Wildlife harder to see, but landscape lush
  • Low tourist numbers, great for solitude

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Damaraland in March

March in Damaraland usually sees the main rains tailing off, though precipitation varies greatly across the region. Many days are clear, with strong sun driving temperatures up, while others may experience light rainfall.

The landscape often appears vivid and green, providing a striking contrast to the bare rocky outcrops of Spitzkoppe and Brandberg. Animals such as springbok and mountain zebra may be finishing raising their young. Small herds of plains game such as these can be more visible against the greener backdrop. The Damara Living Museum showcases how local communities adapt to these seasonal changes. The clearer skies towards the end of the month make for excellent stargazing at lodges where you can move your bed to sleep under the stars.

  • Weather becoming drier as month progresses
  • Animals looking healthy after months of plenty
  • Balmy nights sleeping under star-filled skies
  • Migrant birds begin to depart
  • Few tourists, rates often low at lodges

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Damaraland in April

April in Damaraland is typically dominated by dry weather, with decreasing chances of rain. Temperatures begin to fall, but days remain pleasantly warm. The rains often leave the landscape verdant, creating stunning photo opportunities at sites like the Etendeka Plateau and Klip Valley.

Animals are in fantastic condition, often with fast-growing young in attendance. The desert-adapted elephants may be more easily spotted as they begin to return to the riverbeds to feed on Ana and Camelthorn trees. With dust washed from the atmosphere, photographers can capture clear shots of spectacular landscapes. Stargazers will enjoy increasingly clear night skies. In the Palmwag Concession, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding mammals such as black rhino can still be challenging, but worth the effort.

  • Cooler nights, days still warm and pleasant
  • Landscape still green from recent rains
  • Air clear, for crisp photographs
  • Wildlife starting to become easier to find
  • Easter sees an increase in visitors

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Damaraland in May

By May, Damaraland is usually drying out fast. If rains have been good, the land remains green, especially around natural springs found in valleys and craggy rocksides. The air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography at sites like Twyfelfontein and along the remote Hoanib riverbed.

Temperatures are moderate, typically warm with crisp, clear mornings and blue skies. Evenings are cool enough to wear an extra layer. Many lodges still charge low season prices, offering good value. The combination of increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes, and crystal-clear air make May one of the best months to visit Damaraland. It's an excellent time to explore the region's geological wonders, such as the ancient Etendeka lava flows.

  • Lovely weather: warm days, cool nights
  • Landscape drying out, still some greenery
  • Clear, sharp colours for photography
  • Wildlife more visible along scenic riverbeds
  • Low visitor numbers, moderate lodge rates

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Damaraland in June

June sees Damaraland dry and clear, with blue, largely cloudless skies. Days are often lovely and warm, but nights can be cold, sometimes below freezing in desert areas.

Visitors should pack warm clothing for early morning nature drives to spot desert-adapted elephants or black rhinos. Most outdoor pools are too cold for swimming, except for the very dedicated. It’s a particularly good climate for walking; either short walks or perhaps a multi-day hike on the Etendeka Plateau.

Historically, June prices have been low, but Damaraland's increasing popularity means many lodges now consider it high season.

  • Clear, bright days and cold nights
  • Wonderful for stargazing and night walks
  • Good wildlife viewing in remote wildernesses
  • Hiking comfortable in cooler temperatures
  • Moderate lodge rates, increasing bookings

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Damaraland in July

July in Damaraland offers fairly warm temperatures above 20°C/68°F in the middle of the day, but often cold nights. Visitors should dress in layers and be prepared for chilly mornings and evenings.

Rain is extremely rare, and clear skies make for great photographs of the sandstone mountains in morning and evening light. As vegetation shrivels, animals gather near food and water sources, making sightings of desert-adapted wildlife more likely. Elephant herds are more regularly seen along dry riverbeds during this period.

Lodges charge high season rates, and many are booked up well in advance, especially during European school holidays.

  • Dry days, clear skies, crisp cold nights
  • Peak time for wildlife viewing in Damaraland
  • Desert-adapted elephants more easily spotted
  • Wonderfully cool for day walks and longer hikes
  • High season rates, book accommodations early

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Damaraland in August

August is the height of Damaraland's winter. Expect cloudless skies and usually warm sun during the day, but nights can drop to freezing in desert areas. Visitors should bring warm clothes for nature drives and walks in chilly mornings and evenings.

The landscape begins to change from green to golden grasses and stark hillsides. Wildlife sticks close to dry river-beds where desert-adapted elephants dig for water, creating waterholes for other animals.

The clear, dry conditions make it an excellent time for hiking and exploring geological features like the Organ Pipes and Burnt Mountain.

August is the most popular time to visit Damaraland, especially for families. Booking well in advance is essential.

  • Perfect weather for outdoor activities
  • Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Popular time for hiking and tracking rhino on foot
  • Good time for cultural experiences at Damara Living Museum
  • Peak season, lodges booked up well in advance

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Damaraland in September

September in Damaraland brings blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of, and as the month progresses, days and nights quickly get warmer. Daily maximums can reach the low 30s Celsius/mid-80s Fahrenheit, though low humidity keeps it comfortable. The air becomes dustier, occasionally affecting visibility for photographers at sites like Twyfelfontein or Brandberg.

In the Palmwag Concession and along the Ugab River, animals congregate around remaining water sources, making September one of the best months for game viewing, especially for desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos, but also desert-adapted lion. It's a popular month for visitors, particularly safari enthusiasts seeking sightings of these unique sub-species.

The Himba at Khowarib provide insights into how local communities adapt to the dry season.

  • Warm days, nights getting warmer
  • Landscape golden brown, very photogenic
  • Prime time for seeing desert-adapted wildlife
  • Air can be hazy with dust
  • High season rates, book well in advance

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Damaraland in October

Damaraland is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build throughout the month, with daily highs potentially exceeding 40°C/104°F towards the end. The extreme dryness, though, makes even these high temperatures bearable.

Wildlife watching is at its best, particularly in areas like the remote Palmwag Concession and along the Hoanib River. October is popular among wildlife enthusiasts, as shyer species such as brown hyena and cheetah are more regularly seen. However, dust and occasional smoke may make the air hazy, challenging landscape photographers but creating beautiful sunsets.

Visitor numbers can decrease towards the end of the month, potentially allowing for last-minute bookings at some lodges.

  • Hot and dry, true desert conditions
  • Wildlife congregates at remaining water
  • Excellent month for photographing sunsets
  • Peak tourist time, expect higher rates
  • Unusual species like brown hyena more regularly seen

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Damaraland in November

November in Damaraland is unpredictable; sometimes dry and hot, sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and clear, with clouds gathering from the afternoon. Humidity builds, occasionally resulting in spectacular thunderstorms with convection rainfall in late afternoons. These storms are usually localised and may not reach desert areas.

Places receiving good rain, like parts of the Palmwag Concession, quickly turn green, softening the landscape. Many mammals give birth, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Once rains settle in waterholes, wildlife disperses in search of food, making game viewing more challenging. However, this is an excellent time for birdwatchers, with migrant species arriving and taking on breeding plumage.

The rock art at Twyfelfontein and Brandberg can be particularly striking after light rains.

  • Variable weather, possibility of rain
  • New growth if rains arrive, landscape greens
  • Wildlife viewing still good, with babies often born
  • Shoulder season rates offer better value
  • Birdlife increases with migrant arrivals

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Damaraland in December

December is often a dry month between November’s short rains and the main rains in January, and is one of its hottest months. Occasional short, often spectacular thunderstorms are often highly localised and generally welcomed, clearing the air of dust and allowing plant life to flourish. This creates a green carpet across the usually arid landscape, providing food for young animals.

Wildlife, including the desert-adapted elephants, disperses widely as food is more plentiful, making game viewing in areas like the Palmwag Concession more challenging. But sightings in early December can be enjoyed and photographed at leisure often with few or no other viewers. Many birds are breeding, sporting their most colorful plumage.

Christmas and New Year fall within local summer holidays, so accommodation options can be surprisingly busy, especially in cooler areas near the coast.

  • Hot days, possibility of refreshing showers
  • Landscape may become green with early rains
  • Good time for seeing young animals
  • Desert-adapted species less concentrated
  • Holiday season brings more visitors

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

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