About Desert Horse Inn
The owner-run Desert Horse Inn stands on the Klein-Aus Vista reserve, which is reminiscent of a 'Western' movie set.
It's about 1,400m above sea level, in a totally unspoilt semi-desert area, with wide-open plains against a backdrop of mountains. As well as offering some excellent walking, Klein-Aus Vista works as a base to visit Lüderitz, some 125km to the west.
The Desert Horse Inn is a welcoming and homely lodge. It makes a convenient stop for those travelling between Sossusvlei and Fish River Canyon, but if you have a little extra time and want to enjoy the reserve, search out the feral horses or visit Lüderitz and Kolmanskop, we'd suggest at least a couple of nights here.
Our view
The Desert Horse Inn is a welcoming and homely lodge. It makes a convenient stop for those travelling between Sossusvlei and Fish River Canyon, but if you have a little extra time and want to enjoy the reserve, search out the feral horses or visit Lüderitz and Kolmanskop, we'd suggest at least a couple of nights here.
Accommodation
30 rooms
Children
Best for 8+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Horse-riding
Mountain biking
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Traveller reviews of Desert Horse Inn
51 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 12 Dec 2024, 1 nights
"Desert Horse Inn review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 5 May 2024, 1 nights
"Desert Horse Inn review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 7 Dec 2023, 2 nights
"Desert Horse Inn review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 2 Jul 2023, 1 nights
"Desert Horse Inn review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 28 Feb 2023, 1 nights
"Desert Horse Inn review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 9 Sep 2022, 2 nights
"Desert Horse Inn review"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 24 May 2022, 2 nights
"Desert Horse Inn review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 22 Nov 2021, 2 nights
"Desert Horse Inn review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 11 Oct 2019, 1 nights
"Lots of hiking trails available"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 15 Sep 2019, 2 nights
"Excellent lodge to hang out "
Overall rating: Excellent
















Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 24 pictures of Desert Horse Inn to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Desert Horse Inn
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Quiver Tree Self-drive Safari
14 days • 7 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
An offbeat Namibian self-drive adventure exploring the epic Fish River Canyon and fascinating Kolmanskop ghost town in the south, before turning north via the classic highlights of Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and Damaraland.
Visiting Luderitz & Aus, Fish River Canyon and 5 other areas
US$3,540 - US$3,750 per person
Desert Horse Inn: Our full report
The owner-run Desert Horse Inn stands on the Klein-Aus Vista reserve, which is reminiscent of a 'Western' movie set.
It's about 1,400m above sea level, in a totally unspoilt semi-desert area, with wide-open plains against a backdrop of mountains. As well as offering some excellent walking, Klein-Aus Vista works as a base to visit Lüderitz, some 125km to the west.
The Desert Horse Inn is one of four very different properties on the Klein-Aus Vista reserve, including the more remote and rustic Eagle's Nest and an entirely separate campsite.
The 30 rooms at the inn are set up in pairs in individual bungalows whose red brick blends in with the red Kalahari sand. Each has its own private entrance and veranda (with a wooden table and two chairs), a design that helps the lodge to feel small and intimate – although note that the inn sometimes hosts quite large parties of guests.
Inside, large windows let plenty of natural light into the open-plan rooms, which are broadly similar in design and style, including a small lounge area, a fridge, tea/coffee facilities, AC and a ceiling fan. Simple handmade furniture features single beds with bedside tables, wooden luggage racks and a large wooden wardrobe. Three of the rooms have an extra single bed, while another three have 2 twins and a bunk bed – ideal for families. Spacious en-suite bathrooms have a flush toilet, washbasin and stand-alone shower.
The two-storey main building at the Desert Horse Inn, built entirely of wood, houses the reception, lounge and curio shop on the lower floor. The whole place is beautifully decorated with natural materials from the surrounding area, from camelthorn seedpods to ostrich eggs, feathers and other natural artefacts. Next to the doorway leading from the bar area to the guest toilets there’s even a carved tree trunk serving as a wine stand.
The lounge area has comfortable sofas and armchairs, with old-fashioned luggage serving as coffee tables, and animal-skin rugs on the floors lending an old safari-camp feel. It’s a great place to relax, perhaps with a book, or head for the wood-topped bar, tucked away in a dark corner and surrounded by bar stools. It is well stocked with a good choice of spirits, local beer, wines and various soft drinks. An open archway leads to the reception and curio shop which showcases crafts made by the people of Aus.
Upstairs in the restaurant, large glass windows afford a 270° view of the plains. Guests sit at individual tables beneath high ceilings supported by wooden beams, which give a feeling of spaciousness, while rich polished wood adds warmth and a tree adds character. On our last visit in May 2018, the outside deck under a shaded roof was our choice spot for lunch, while taking in those panoramic views.
Down some steps you’ll come to a sparkling horseshoe-shaped pool – a nice addition when it’s hot, although we can’t see the unheated water being too popular in the cooler winter months (July–October).
Activities at Desert Horse Inn, as at Eagle's Nest , include guided sundowner drives, scenic drives both on the reserve and to find the feral horses, mountain-bike trails and self-guided walks on trails ranging from 4km to 20km. Klein-Aus is also a popular base for self-drivers, with Lüderitz and the ghost town of Kolmanskop easily visited on a day trip from here, perhaps looking out for the horses on the way.
Geographics
- Location
- Luderitz, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- 2–3 nights
- Directions
- Klein-Aus Vista is just off the B4 outside Aus, 121km east of the coastal town of Lüderitz.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- We have found the food here to be more wholesome than fine dining. This said we have always enjoyed eating here.
A buffet breakfast includes a wide selection of fresh fruit, home-made juices, fresh-baked breads and muffins, with hot dishes cooked to order.
The à la carte lunch menu features light meals such as sandwiches and salads. We especially enjoyed their home-made fresh juices, which are bottled on the farm and are on sale in Lüderitz.
We didn’t eat here on our last visit in May 2018 but dinner is usually a three-course buffet with 2–3 choices of game meat, a wide selection of fresh vegetables and fresh salad. On a previous visit we enjoyed spicy rice, a potjie kos (farmers' stew), pork chops, French beans and cauliflower with a lovely creamy white sauce. Dessert was a lovely cheesecake served with vanilla ice-cream. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- No drinks included.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- For a family safari holiday in Namibia, consider the Desert Horse Inn, which has no age restrictions. Set in Klein-Aus Vista's semi-desert reserve, it has a relaxed, informal atmosphere, with plenty of space for children to run around.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Namibia
- Photography holidays
- On a photographic holiday to Namibia the feral horses of the Namib and the deserted ghost town of Kolmanskop are certain to be highlights. Desert Horse Inn makes a great base to take in both these attractions.
- See ideas for Photography holidays in Namibia
- Walking
- Klein-Aus Vista reserve has seven walking trails, ranging from 4km to just over 20km, so makes a good choice for guests interested in hiking in Namibia. Note that April to mid October, when it is cooler, is the ideal time for hiking.
- See ideas for Walking in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Yes children of all ages are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- No age restriction
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes, great for older children who might I enjoy the walks and mountain biking. However, there are few provisions for young children.
- Notes
- Whilst this is a relatively safe environment, parental supervision of children is still recommended at all times due to high drop offs and the un-fenced u guarded pool.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Desert Horse Inn
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Desert Horse Inn have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

75% success

14% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is power in the rooms overnight although excessive use may drain the batteries, and hairdryers cannot be used.
- Communications
- There is a telephone in the reception area that guests can borrow and pay for direct. There is free WiFi here too although it can be somewhat unreliable.
- TV & radio
- It is sometimes possible to watch major sports or news events on television at the Desert Horse Inn.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- There are flush toilets and hot and cold running water in all the bathrooms.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- There is a clinic in Aus, but the nearest doctor is in Lüderitz, about two hours’ drive away.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Like most similar places, Klein-Aus Vista doesn't use any form of armed security.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in the main areas at Desert Horse Inn.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Horse-riding
Mountain biking
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Possible at an extra charge.
- Money
- There is a small electronic safe in each chalet.
- Accepted payment on location
- Klein-Aus Vista takes cash in Namibian dollars or South African rand, and both Visa and Mastercard. Travellers’ cheques are not accepted.
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Desert Horse Inn's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Desert Horse Inn.
Excursions from Desert Horse Inn
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Desert Horse Inn. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Halifax Island boat trip
2 hours
Climb aboard the comfortable catamaran Zeepaard in search of the marine life of Namibia’s wild coastline – among them Cape fur seals, Heaviside dolphins, African penguins and perhaps even humpback whales.
More about Halifax Island trip
Sperrgebiet tour
Full day, including lunch
Discover the hidden gems of the Sperrgebiet National Park on this exceptional all-day trip. There may no longer be diamonds for the taking, but in their place you’ll find ghost towns, the rusting relics of the diamond industry, geological formations, and extraordinary desert flora, largely untouched for generations.
More about Sperrgebiet tourOther lodges in Luderitz
Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Eagle's Nest
The rustic chalets at Eagle's Nest on the Klein-Aus Vista reserve make a scenic base for hiking in the mountains, or just to enjoy the solitude.

Nest Hotel
With ocean views from all its rooms, the Nest Hotel is perfectly placed to appreciate the best of Lüderitz.

Island Cottage
Island Cottage offers simple but comfortable self-catering apartments in an attractive if desolate location overlooking Lüderitz Harbour.

Haus Sandrose
Haus Sandrose offers comfortable self-catering units in the heart of Lüderitz and a good base to explore the many attractions in and around the area.
When to go to Luderitz
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Desert Horse Inn in Luderitz
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Namibia in January
January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.
Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
- Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
- Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
- Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Namibia in February
February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.
Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
- The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Namibia in March
March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.
Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
- Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Namibia in April
Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.
With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.
- Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
- Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
- Migrant birds have started to leave
- Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Namibia in May
By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.
Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.
May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.
- Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
- The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
- Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
- Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
- Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Namibia in June
Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.
Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.
Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.
- Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
- Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
- “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
- Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
- Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Namibia in July
Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ºC/70ºF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.
As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).
- Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
- Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
- The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Namibia in August
August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.
It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.
Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.
- Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
- Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
- Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Namibia in September
September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.
In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.
- One of the best months for wildlife viewing
- Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
- Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
- Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
- High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Namibia in October
Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ºC/100ºF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.
In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.
- Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
- Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
- The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
- It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
- Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Namibia in November
November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.
Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.
- A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
- With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
- Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
- Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
- Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Namibia in December
December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!
Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.
Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.
- Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
- Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
- A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
- Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
- Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December

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