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Island Cottage

About Island Cottage

Tucked away on an island north of Lüderitz, the self-catering apartments at Island Cottage overlook the Atlantic Ocean.

If you thought Lüderitz was a remote outpost, consider taking it a stage further and head for Shark Island.

Windswept and often desolate, it’s an impressive place to watch the waves buffeting the Atlantic shoreline. But that doesn’t mean abandoning creature comforts: far from it.

The name Island Cottage might be out of kilter, but step inside the modern, red-painted building, and all is calm and orderly. Indeed, its cosy, self-contained apartments could be considered a home from home, with their en-suite bathrooms and well-equipped kitchenettes or breakfast corner.

Stay in touch with the elements on your own balcony, armed with a hot drink to ward off the chilly breeze, or hunker down indoors and watch the world through big picture windows.

If the sun comes out (it does, even in Lüderitz!), cook up a storm on the barbecue and bask in the great outdoors. If it doesn’t, perhaps indulge in a facial or massage in the cottage spa.

Despite the apparent isolation, company is only a short walk away. Just follow the causeway and you’ll be among the colourful Germanic buildings that enliven the streets of this out-of-the-way fishing port, built over a century ago when diamonds were discovered in the nearby desert.

Our view

Island Cottage offers a clean, cosy and simple self-catering stay on the windy and often desolate Shark Island. The quiet out-of-town location is a good spot for those wishing to explore Lüderitz and the surrounding attractions away from the bustle of the town itself.

Tom Morris

Tom Morris

Country manager: Namibia

Accommodation

3 apartments

Children

Fine for all ages

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Boat trip

Fishing

Fishing

Private activities

Private activities

Self-guided walking

Self-guided walking

Traveller reviews of Island Cottage

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


90%
6 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
3
Good
3
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mrs & Mr DBfromBC Canada

Arrived 12 Oct 2019, 2 nights

"Nice location on the coast"

"Good location. Easy to walk into town for restaurants and visiting. The walk …" Read Mrs & Mr DB’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr LfromLeicestershire

Arrived 13 Sep 2019, 2 nights

"Good"

"Spoilt by a very poor duvet which we didn`t discover till we went to bed at night …" Read Mr L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr C & Ms BfromMacclesfi

Arrived 11 Nov 2018, 2 nights

"Strange Luderitz!"

"adequate and comfortable …" Read Mr C & Ms B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

raedrianfromCanada

Arrived 4 Apr 2017, 2 nights

"Island Cottage review"

"Modern, newer condos with lots of space. Great view of the bay and the island(s), …" Read raedrian’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Taylor familyfromUK

Arrived 26 Jun 2014, 2 nights

"Island Cottage review"

"Stunning location right on the coast at Luderitz. We stayed in Flamingo Cottage …" Read Taylor family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs AfromSwindon

Arrived 8 Sep 2012, 2 nights

"Self catering stop off"

"To keep costs down, stayed 2 nights self catering, adequately appointed. Sea …" Read Mr & Mrs A’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

See all Island Cottage reviews

Island Cottage: Our full report

Looking out over the ocean from Shark Island, Island Cottage is a small, self-catering guesthouse.

Its location, slightly out of Lüderitz town itself, makes it relatively quiet, albeit sometimes battered by the elements.

Despite the name, Island Cottage is a group of three self-contained apartments in a modern dark-red building. Although each apartment is brightly painted and well finished, in its own style, all are cosy and well-equipped, their large windows capitalising on the sea views and giving them a light and airy feel. A small balcony, en-suite bathroom and television are also standard, and tea and coffee are provided in all.

The larger Seagull and Penguin “cottages” each have a double bed and a convertible sofa, so can sleep a family of up to four. They also have fully equipped kitchenettes including a fridge, kettle, microwave, sink and some cutlery and crockery. The smaller Flamingo apartment, which was the only one available for us to see when we popped in for a visit in April 2018, comes without the sofa and only has a “breakfast corner” with a fridge, toaster and kettle; it wouldn’t be possible to cook a full meal here.

As each apartment is self-contained there are no communal area to speak of here, but there are braai (BBQ) facilities shared with other guests and the family that owns the guesthouse, who live on site. Other amenities include free WiFi and secure parking.

The most recent addition to the guesthouse is the cottage spa, which offers a range of treatments – from facials to massages – to guests and non-residents alike.

Geographics

Location
Luderitz, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
2 nights
Directions
Island Cottage is located in the north of Luderitz, on Kreplin Insel, by the sea.
Accessible by
Self-drive

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Room Only
Food quality
No food is provided here – it is self catering accommodation.
Drinks included
None

Children

Attitude towards children
Island Cottage accepts children of all ages.
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions here.
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
None
Generally recommended for children
Yes
Notes
In a quiet corner of the Sikumbi Forest Reserve, Bomani Tented Lodge has its own private gate into Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park. Overlooking a pumped waterhole, the lodge has an attractive outlook but the real draw is access to several photographic hides in the park.

Communications

Communications
There is good cellphone reception here.
TV & radio
Each apartment has a TV.
Water supply
Mains
Water supply notes
The en-suite bathrooms are fully plumbed with hot and cold running water and flush toilets.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
No
Medical care
There are doctors in Ludertiz.
Dangerous animals
Low Risk
Security measures
In a quiet corner of the Sikumbi Forest Reserve, Bomani Tented Lodge has its own private gate into Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park. Overlooking a pumped waterhole, the lodge has an attractive outlook but the real draw is access to several photographic hides in the park.
Fire safety
In a quiet corner of the Sikumbi Forest Reserve, Bomani Tented Lodge has its own private gate into Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park. Overlooking a pumped waterhole, the lodge has an attractive outlook but the real draw is access to several photographic hides in the park.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Boat trip

    Boat trip

  • Fishing

    Fishing

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • Self-guided walking

    Self-guided walking

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
No facilities
Money
Every apartment has its own safe.
Accepted payment on location
Payment may be made by Visa or Mastercard, or in cash using Namibian dollars or South African rand.

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Island Cottage's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Island Cottage.


Excursions from Island Cottage

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Island Cottage. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Halifax Island boat trip

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
94% (13 reviews)
Sperrgebiet tour

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 tour
93% (9 reviews)

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When to go to Luderitz

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Island Cottage 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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