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Desert Homestead
Desert Homestead
Desert Homestead
Desert Homestead
Desert Homestead
Desert Homestead
Desert Homestead
Desert Homestead
Desert Homestead

About Desert Homestead

Just over 30km from Sesriem, Desert Homestead offers affordable accommodation in a lovely valley setting, ...

... with panoramic views of the Naukluft Mountains and rocky desert landscape. One of the better-value lodges in the area, it is both comfortable and unpretentious.

If you’re after a good-value, comfortable lodge from which to explore Sossusvlei, and don't mind being slightly further from Sesriem than other lodges, look no further than the friendly Desert Homestead.

Our view

If you’re after a good-value, comfortable lodge from which to explore Sossusvlei, and don't mind being slightly further from Sesriem than other lodges, look no further than the friendly Desert Homestead.

Karen Sharpe

Karen Sharpe

Namibia expert

Accommodation

20 chalets

Children

Fine for all ages

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Fly-camping

Fly-camping

Helicopter

Helicopter

Horse-riding

Horse-riding

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Quad-biking

Quad-biking

Traveller reviews of Desert Homestead

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


91%
108 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
70
Good
33
Average
2
Poor
3
Terrible
0
P and J fromSF

Arrived 6 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"Desert Homestead was beautiful. …" Read P and J ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr WfromLincolnshire

Arrived 9 Aug 2024, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"Excellent, knowledgeable guides....incredible location …" Read Mr W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

M&JfromOxfordshire

Arrived 20 Jul 2024, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"Excellent accommodation - spectacular views of the desert valley. Excellent food …" Read M&J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

StuartfromLondon

Arrived 28 Oct 2023, 3 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"Good pool area. Very nice room, Very good food. a long way from Sossusvlei park …" Read Stuart’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Claire MfromToronto

Arrived 24 Sep 2023, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"I loved the two nights we spent at Desert Homestead. …" Read Claire M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs NfromPortsmouth

Arrived 11 Sep 2022, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"A very pleasant stay …" Read Mr & Mrs N’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr G.fromWantage

Arrived 31 Aug 2022, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"...stunning view of desert and mountain from the chalets ...a delightful oasis …" Read Mr G.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr and Mrs JfromLudlow

Arrived 8 Jul 2022, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"we did two expeditions - the sundowner and the other during the day. …" Read Mr and Mrs J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr R.fromPaia, Hawaii

Arrived 21 Sep 2021, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"the lodge, the view, the bar, built into the huge boulders were all amazing... …" Read Mr R.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

A, D, & MfromBoston, USA

Arrived 8 Aug 2021, 2 nights

"Desert Homestead review"

"Wonderful lodge & staff! Beautiful setting & comfortable room.. wonderful views …" Read A, D, & M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Desert Homestead reviews

Desert Homestead: Our full report

Just over 30km from Sesriem, Desert Homestead offers affordable accommodation in a lovely valley setting, ...

... with panoramic views of the Naukluft Mountains and rocky desert landscape. One of the better-value lodges in the area, it is both comfortable and unpretentious.

The lodge is made up of a long row of 20 large, thatched chalets – 19 twins and one for a family – connected by sandy pathways. On our last visit in May 2016, building was underway to add a further five twin chalets.

  • 19 twin chalets at Desert Homestead are built of brick with thatched roofs and concrete verandas. From a small veranda, glass patio doors lead into the bedroom, with views of the desert from the bed. Plain white cotton linen is softened by beige-coloured cushions, wooden headboards and bookshelves, and quirky metal sculptures of local wildlife. A long mirror above the desk reflects light into the room, and air-conditioning effectively cools the rooms, while think woolen blankets are provided for cooler nights. One of these chalets has a window seat in the bedroom that can be converted to a third bed for a younger child.

    The long, narrow bathrooms are pleasantly paneled with dark stone, and each have a shower, washbasin and flush toilet, with a selection of handcream and soap dispensers.
  • The family chalet has the same clean modern feel, but comes with one double and one twin bedroom separated by a shared bathroom. There is a lounge area off the master bedroom with leather armchairs and a coffee table, a great space to shelter from the sun in the middle of the day. Outside the shared patio with wooden table and chairs is an ideal spot for a sundowner.
The main lounge at Desert Homestead offers views of the surrounding desert through large glass windows and from the adjacent veranda. Comfortable sofas and colourful, overstuffed scatter cushions are enticing places to relax, and bar stools line the rustic wooden bar. Tea and coffee are on offer all day, with homemade cakes in the afternoon.

In balmy weather, homely meals are eaten on the wide veranda, with lanterns under the stars; on cold evenings, candle-lit dinners are served in the romantic indoor dining room, warmed by a fire.

Steps from the lounge and veranda area lead down to a small and sparkling pool, sheltered behind rocky outcrops and surrounded by sunloungers. Come here to cool off at the end of a hot day, while taking in the views.

The Desert Homestead offers a range of activities, with a particular focus on horseriding. The sunrise horseriding trip was great fun, even for a novice rider, with beautiful scenery and an informative guide. If horses are not your thing, consider sundowner drives, guided walks and excursions to Sossusvlei and the Naukluft Mountains. Desert Homestead can also book ballooning and scenic flights, as well as quadbiking. A short walking trail, taking roughly half-an hour, loops around the nearby hill and can be walked without a guide.

Geographics

Location
Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
2–3 nights
Directions
Desert Homestead is accessed from the C19, 9km north-west of the C19/D854 crossing.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Half Board
Food quality
The food at Desert Homestead has a home-cooked feel, and the menu is varied and appealing.

Breakfast is a choice of healthy muesli and yoghurt or a full English breakfast.

on our last visit we don not have a change to eat here however on a previous visit we enjoyed a three-course dinner. The food was delicious and well-presented, focusing on a variety of game meats with sauces cooked in a homely style. For dessert, chocolate mousse was a particular favourite.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
No
Drinks included
Not included; to be paid for locally. We are told the borehole water is safe to drink but there is plenty of bottled water that can be purchased if preferred.

Special interests

Riding holidays
Desert Homestead is one of the best places for horseriding in Namibia, offering a wide range of guided riding within the Naukluft Mountains. With sunrise or sunset rides of one to two hours, or horse-trails for up to five nights, it is suitable for all experience levels.
See ideas for Riding holidays in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of all ages are welcome.
Property’s age restrictions
None
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
Cots can be provided on request.
Generally recommended for children
Yes
Notes
The pool is unfenced and there are steps around the lodge so children should be supervised at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Desert Homestead

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Desert Homestead 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.

Oryx

93% success

Zebra

45% success

Wildebeest

27% success

Giraffe

11% success

Brown Hyena

10% success

Aardvark

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Meerkat

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
Generator back up
Communications
There is a central phone in the main area which guests can use and pay for locally. There is good cellphone reception at the lodge. Free WiFi is available in the main areas, but we found this to be unreliable.
TV & radio
No
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
All the bathrooms include flush toilets and hot and cold running water.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
No
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Windhoek or Swakopmund. In an emergency, patients would be flown to Windhoek.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
The lodge managers live on site, and each room has a foghorn to raise the alarm in case of emergency. Each of the chalets is lockable.
Fire safety
There is a fire extinguisher in each chalet.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Fly-camping

    Fly-camping

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Horse-riding

    Horse-riding

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • Quad-biking

    Quad-biking

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Laundry is available at a charge of N$50 (£2.50) per load (correct May 2016).
Money
Currency exchange is available.
Accepted payment on location
Cash payments may be made in Namibian dollars and South African rand; Visa and MasterCard payments are also accepted.

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Desert Homestead's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Desert Homestead.


Excursions from Desert Homestead

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


Ballooning in the Namib Desert

Ballooning in the Namib Desert

Half day, including breakfast

Ballooning over the world’s oldest desert is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Enjoy spectacular views as the sun rises over the dune-covered plains and rocky mountains of the Namib Desert. You may even spot the occasional oryx or black-backed jackal punctuating the landscape below.

More about Ballooning
95% (84 reviews)
Scenic flights in Namibia

Scenic flights in Namibia

Variable, depending on the flight

Namibia is famed for its stark beauty and boundless desert vistas and there is no better way to soak these in than from the air. A scenic flight gives you a unique perspective on this stunning and varied country, and may even provide a bird’s-eye view of areas that are out of reach to those restricted to terra firma.

More about Scenic flights
94% (7 reviews)

Other lodges in Namib-Naukluft National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Kulala Desert Lodge

Kulala Desert Lodge

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BullsPort Lodge and Farm

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Sossus Dune Lodge

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Little Kulala

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Rostock Ritz

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Sossusvlei Lodge

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Namib Outpost

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Dead Valley Lodge

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Desert Camp

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Elegant Desert Lodge

Elegant Desert Lodge

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Corona Guest Farm

Corona Guest Farm

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Namib Desert Lodge

Namib Desert Lodge

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Sonop

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Camp Sossus

Camp Sossus

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Desert Hills Glamping Camp

Desert Hills Camp

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Le Mirage Lodge

Le Mirage Lodge

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Desert Grace

Desert Grace

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When to go to Namib-Naukluft National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Desert Homestead 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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