About Corona Guest Farm
Corona Guest Farm is in a fairly remote and mountainous spot, equidistant from Windhoek and Walvis Bay, and ...
... is a fairly traditional Namibian guest farm – notable for some great scenery and opportunities for serious mountain hiking.
When we visited Corona in 2010, we found a very traditional guest farm that offers good (quite serious) hiking. There was some game there – including plenty of kudu, steenbok, oryx and lots of Hartmann's mountain zebra. It's a great place for scenery and serious hiking, as long as you're happy with the feeling that you're staying in someone's own home.
Our view
When we visited Corona in 2010, we found a very traditional guest farm that offers good (quite serious) hiking. There was some game there – including plenty of kudu, steenbok, oryx and lots of Hartmann's mountain zebra. It's a great place for scenery and serious hiking, as long as you're happy with the feeling that you're staying in someone's own home.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
10 rooms
Children
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Traveller reviews of Corona Guest Farm
7 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryCorona Guest Farm: Our full report
Corona Guest Farm is in a fairly remote and mountainous spot, equidistant from Windhoek and Walvis Bay, and ...
... is a fairly traditional Namibian guest farm – notable for some great scenery and opportunities for serious mountain hiking.
Corona lies far to the north of the Sesriem area; it's no use as a base to see the dunes. In fact it's just east of the north-east corner of the park, fairly close to the famous 'Gamsberg Pass'. It's near to the foot of the Gamsberg Mountain – Namibia's fourth highest mountain, which is sometimes known locally as 'table top mountain' for its flat-topped profile.
The original guest farm burnt to the ground shortly after it opened in 1995, and the present Corona Guest Farm has been rebuilt on the exact same spot. The 18km drive from the main C26 turn-off to the guest farm remains very bumpy, but is scenic with game often seen grazing long side the road.
Driving up to the guest farm's under shade guest parking, it all looks very peaceful and quiet. The small gate into the front garden leads you through a beautifully shaded area, filled with beautiful colorful flowers and tall shady trees.
On entering the main area of the guest farm it is pleasantly cool, with high ceilings but it does feel quite cluttered, like a collector's house. There are lots of old antiques and a variety of mementos collected on one of the owner's trips to foreign and exotic places. Expect a fair number of rugs, various animal skins and an assortment of carvings from across the globe.
Amidst this stuff, there's an open-plan dining area and a lounge which both share one large room, and are adjacent to a small bar. If there are only a few guests, then everyone is likely to eat together.
Corona Guest Farm has ten rooms in and around its main farmhouse.
Within the main farmhouse there are four 'deluxe family-size suites' – each of whist is named: there's a Zebra Suite, an Elephant Suite, a Leopard Suite and an Oryx Suite. These are the first rooms to be used when Corona receives bookings – only when these are full will the farm's 'standard rooms' be used.
Each of the suites is reached from a door off the main lounge/dining room area, and all are very big. These are adorned with a variety of books and ornaments – like a private room at someone's home. There's a mini-bar/fridge here – stocked with water when you arrive – and a full bookshelf, although most of the books are in German, as befitting the native tongue of the owners!
These suites are all split-level. A lounge area incorporates a sofa and a coffee table and a writing desk, from where steps lead up to the bedroom itself. The double bed is dotted with cushions and lot to the floor – and most of them are decorated with some form of fabric or print mirroring the name of the room. (Eg: A zebra print on the bed in the 'Zebra Suite'.)
Each suite has an en suite bathroom with relatively busy, colourful décor; ours had purple-patterned tiles! There's a flush toilet here, several mirrors, constant hot water, and an interesting design for a shower which requires one to step through the bath to reach it!
A glass door leads from the lounge-area of these suites to its own private outside veranda, from where steps lead into the communal areas of the garden. There, set in grass and away from the main house, is a lovely, large modern swimming pool.
Outside the main farmhouse, through the garden, are the farm's six 'standard rooms'. These bright, cheerful rooms are quite different from the suites in the farmhouse – as although they're smaller … they are more modern and less cluttered than the suites.
All these rooms have double beds, with bed-side table and lights, as well as a chair and a writing desk. Each has a separate en suite bathroom, with a shower, but no bath. Outside these rooms is a long, shaded veranda – shared between them.
Well away from the main farmhouse area, they also have four en-suite tents; there's also a mountain hut that can be rented out for minimum of five nights; there's also a nearby farmhouse, called Piccadilly, which has three double rooms which can be rented out – but when we last saw this, it required some modernization before we could recommend it.
Corona Guest Farm is a place for activities, and it does attract some very serious hikers. With advanced notice, the farm's manager can also organize horse-riding trips. Given the rugged nature of the landscape, we'd only recommend this to experienced riders. (We haven't the specialist riding knowledge to assess the tack, horses or riding guides here with any certainty, so it's always important that travellers satisfy themselves about the safety of the riding here.) Scenic drives and nature walks are also available.
Geographics
- Location
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- 2 -3 nights, but keen hikers may want a little longer.
- Directions
- Corona Guest Farm lies about 18km south of the long, gravel C14/C26 road which is the southern-most link between Windhoek and Walvis Bay. The 18km drive from the main C26 turn-off to the guest farm is a bit bumpy but is scenic with game often seen grazing long side the road. It's also possible to charter a light aircraft o fly into the Rooisand airstrip, nearby.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- The food here was of a high standard on our last visit. There was sumptuous breakfast spread including hot and cold dishes, and fresh flowers. Dinner was eaten to the sounds of passing zebras.
- Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Yes, but not usually requested.
- Drinks included
- No drinks are included; they are charged as an extra here.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions at Corona.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- Cots can be provided.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes
- Notes
- Children must be supervised at all times by their parents.
Communications
- Communications
- There is a public phone where guests can make calls using pre-paid (Flexi-call cards) which can be purchased at the farm.
In cases of great urgency travellers can check their e-mails using the office landline. There is no mobile reception.
- TV & radio
- There is a television and radio which can be brought into the lounge on request.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- The nearest doctor is in Windhoek or Walvis Bay and depending on the seriousness of the situation, guests can either be driven to hospital or air lifted there
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- The farm is in a very remote, rural area – where we wouldn't usually expect a place to have much security.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in the main building. Given that the original guest farm burnt down 13 years ago, the present owners are very fire-aware, and have educated their staff in measures to prevent and to deal with fires.
Activities
4WD Safari
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Full Laundry Service - Extra Charge
- Accepted payment on location
- All major credit cards are accepted. Traveller's cheques are not accepted.
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Corona Guest Farm's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Corona Guest Farm.
Other lodges in Namib-Naukluft National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Kulala Desert Lodge
The comfortable Kulala Desert Lodge offers fantastic views of the Namib and a private gate to the Namib-Naukluft Park - a bonus on guided excursions.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Desert Hills Camp
Conveniently located for the renowned dunes of Sossusvlei Desert Hills Glamping Camp offers a simple but comfortable tents in picturesque surroundings.
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.
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.
When to go to Namib-Naukluft National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Corona Guest Farm in Namib-Naukluft National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Namib-Naukluft National Park in January
January marks the start of the main rainy season. The Sossusvlei area may experience localised thunderstorms, creating a striking contrast against the red dunes. The Tsauchab River might flow, running through the usually dry Sesriem Canyon and out onto the desert sands. The landscape begins to green, offering a refreshing change and a beautiful backdrop. Many birds in the park are in full breeding plumage, their numbers increased by the arrival of summer migrant species. The Naukluft Mountains may see more reliable rains, bringing on nutritious vegetation for mountain zebras, springbok and oryx to feed on.
- Variable weather: hot days, possible rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms
- Desert blooms if rain has fallen
- Wildlife dispersed, away from waterholes
- Few tourists, lower rates for accommodation
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Namib-Naukluft National Park in February
February is often the wettest month in Namib-Naukluft National Park. The Sossusvlei area may experience short, spectacular thunderstorms, occasionally generating flash floods in ephemeral rivers. These events can temporarily transform the usually dry landscape, creating stunning photographic opportunities. The park's vegetation is at its greenest, with insects and smaller creatures uniquely adapted to the desert more easily seen. In the Naukluft Mountains, heavier rains can make some hiking trails more challenging but also more rewarding with lush vegetation. Wildlife viewing in open areas like Sossusvlei might be trickier due to the abundance of water and food allowing animals to disperse widely.
- Hot days, chance of rain and thunderstorms
- Desert vegetation lush if rains occurred
- Dramatic skies as backdrop for photographs
- Wildlife still dispersed across the park
- Low tourist numbers, great for solitude
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Namib-Naukluft National Park in March
March usually sees the main rains tailing off in Namib-Naukluft National Park. The Sossusvlei area may still experience occasional afternoon thunderstorms, but these decrease in frequency as the month progresses. The landscape is often at its most vivid, with the red dunes contrasting beautifully against green vegetation, and often dry gravel plains now covered in waving grasses. This creates excellent photographic opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. The Naukluft Mountains may still have some water in streams, making it a good time for hiking. Wildlife viewing can be challenging as animals are widely dispersed, but patient observers may be rewarded with sightings of desert-adapted species.
- Weather becoming drier as month progresses
- Desert landscapes starting to dry out
- Animals looking healthy after rainy months
- Wildlife viewing improving in drier areas
- Few tourists, peaceful park experience
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Namib-Naukluft National Park in April
April typically brings dry weather to Namib-Naukluft National Park, with a decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures begin to fall, making it more comfortable for activities like hiking in the Naukluft Mountains or climbing dunes in Sossusvlei. The park often remains verdant from the recent rains, with animals in fantastic condition. This is an excellent time for photography, with clear air and spectacular landscapes. Stargazers will enjoy increasingly clear night skies as the month progresses. Wildlife viewing may still be challenging in some areas as water and food remain in plentiful supply, allowing animals to roam widely. Birdwatching opportunities along the coast, especially Sandwich Harbour, remain impressive.
- Cooler nights, pleasant daytime temperatures
- Landscapes transitioning to golden hues
- Migratory birds begin to leave the park
- Wildlife easier to spot around water sources
- Easter can bring a surge in visitor numbers
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Namib-Naukluft National Park in May
By May, Namib-Naukluft National Park is usually drying out fast. If rains have been good, the land remains green, creating a striking contrast with the red dunes of Sossusvlei. Wildlife starts to congregate around more permanent water sources, improving viewing opportunities. The air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography, especially in iconic locations like Deadvlei. Typical days are warm with crisp, clear mornings and blue skies, perfect for activities like hiking in the Naukluft Mountains or hot air ballooning over Sossusvlei. Evenings are cool, ideal for stargazing. At the coast, seal pups begin to take to the water and are playful around kayakers. May's good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, and crystal-clear air make it one of the best months to visit the park.
- Dry, warm days and cool nights
- Excellent photography conditions
- Wildlife returning to waterholes
- Ideal for hiking in Naukluft Mountains
- Moderate visitor numbers, good value
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Namib-Naukluft National Park in June
Namib-Naukluft National Park is dry in June, with cloudless blue skies. Days are warm and dry, while nights can be cold, especially in desert areas like Sossusvlei. Early morning game drives or hikes require warm clothing. Wildlife viewing in areas like the Naukluft Mountains improves as animals are more active in cooler weather and seek out permanent water sources. The park isn't busy yet, allowing for a more secluded experience. Photographers benefit from superb air clarity and minimal dust of the early dry season. The contrast between the now-dry landscape and the vivid red dunes is striking, especially in early morning or late afternoon light. June is an excellent time for activities like sandboarding or quad biking in the dunes, as well as scenic flights over the park.
- Clear skies, cold nights and mornings
- Perfect conditions for stargazing
- Wildlife viewing productive at waterholes
- Great for dune climbing and desert walks
- Moderate accommodation rates available
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Namib-Naukluft National Park in July
July in Namib-Naukluft National Park offers usually warm daytime temperatures and excellent wildlife sightings. The clear skies and dry conditions make for great photographs, especially of iconic locations like Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Nights can be very cold, particularly in the desert areas, so warm clothing is essential for early morning activities. As vegetation continues to dry, animals congregate near water sources, improving wildlife viewing opportunities. The Naukluft Mountains may offer sightings of mountain zebra, gemsbok and other hardy desert species. This is a popular time to visit, so book accommodation and activities in advance. Consider seeing the park's vast landscapes and unique geological features by land and by air.
- Dry days, crisp nights ideal for stargazing
- Peak season for Sossusvlei visits
- Cool temperatures for hiking
- Popular time for hot air balloon rides
- Higher rates, book accommodations early
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Namib-Naukluft National Park in August
August is the height of winter in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Expect cloudless skies and warm sun during the day, but nights can drop to freezing in desert areas like Sossusvlei. Dress in layers for early morning dune climbs or hikes. The landscape appears stark and harsh, emphasising the park's dramatic geology and beautiful colours. Look out for unique desert creatures, such as the toktokkie beetle standing on his head to catch dew droplets in this dry time. This is the most popular time to visit, especially for families, so book early. Activities like hot air ballooning over Sossusvlei are particularly popular now, offering stunning views of the desert landscape in the crisp morning air.
- Dry climate, warm days and cold nights
- Peak season for park visits and activities
- Sossusvlei and Deadvlei highly photogenic
- Sandboarding and quad biking popular
- Advance booking essential for lodges
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Namib-Naukluft National Park in September
September in Namib-Naukluft National Park brings blue cloudless skies and the occasional windy day. As the month progresses, days and nights get warmer. The air becomes dustier, creating atmospheric conditions for photography, especially during golden hour at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Desert animals congregate around remaining water and food sources. It's a popular time for visitors, particularly safari enthusiasts. The contrast between the parched landscape and the vivid red dunes is at its most striking. Humpback and Southern Right whales can be spotted off the coast whilst on a marine cruise.
- Warming temperatures, remaining dry
- Excellent month for wildlife viewing
- Naukluft Mountain hikes highly enjoyable
- Whales can be seen along the coast
- High season rates, popular travel time
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Namib-Naukluft National Park in October
October is usually the hottest and driest month in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Temperatures can exceed 40°C/104°F, especially in the Sossusvlei area. The end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly around water sources. The stark beauty of the desert is at its peak, with the red dunes of Sossusvlei standing out dramatically against the cloudless sky. This is an excellent time for photography, with dust haze making for spectacular sunsets. Activities like early morning balloon rides or kayaking on cool waters are popular. October is popular among wildlife enthusiasts, but visitor numbers can decrease towards the end of the month, allowing for last-minute bookings.
- Hot and dry, true desert conditions
- Prime time for viewing desert-adapted wildlife
- Sossusvlei dunes at their most dramatic
- Scenic flights offer spectacular views
- Peak rates, book well in advance
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Namib-Naukluft National Park in November
November in Namib-Naukluft National Park can be unpredictable. Early in the month, conditions are often still hot and dry, similar to October. As the month progresses, there's an increasing chance of afternoon thunderstorms, particularly in the Naukluft Mountains. These storms can create spectacular photographic opportunities, especially when lightning illuminates the desert landscape. Any rain quickly brings new life, with desert-adapted plants springing up rapidly. This is an excellent time for birdwatchers, with migrant species arriving. Wildlife may begin to disperse if rains come, making game viewing more challenging but animals look healthy, with shiny coats, due to the increase in food. The changing conditions create a dynamic environment, offering visitors a unique perspective on the desert ecosystem.
- Variable weather as rainy season starts
- Possibility of dramatic desert storms
- Landscapes may start to green
- Wildlife dispersing if early rains fall
- Shoulder season, good value for visitors
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Namib-Naukluft National Park in December
December is often a dry gap between the short November rains and the main rains in January in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Occasionally the park experiences dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. These rains transform the landscape, with dormant plants springing to life and dry gravel plains quickly turning green. The contrast between the green vegetation and red dunes creates stunning visuals. Many animals give birth during this time, offering chances to see young wildlife. Birdlife is abundant, with many species in breeding plumage. The holiday season can make the park busier, especially around Sossusvlei, so early bookings are advisable.
- Hot days, possible afternoon showers
- Desert may bloom with early rains
- Migratory birds return to coastal areas
- Christmas brings increase in local tourism
- Mix of green and golden desert vistas
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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