This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Skip to main content

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

User menu
Le Mirage Lodge
Le Mirage Lodge
Le Mirage Lodge
Le Mirage Lodge
Le Mirage Lodge
Le Mirage Lodge
Le Mirage Lodge

About Le Mirage Lodge

About 20km south of Sesriem, so within relatively easy reach of the dunes of Sossusvlei, Le Mirage Resort ...

... and Spa is – as the name suggests – both a lodge and a spa. It’s a somewhat imposing sight, a castle-like building in the middle of the desert.

While Le Mirage doesn't particularly blend in with its surroundings, it’s certainly different! If you don't mind staying in a larger lodge and you are looking for good spa facilities, it offers a comfortable base for trips to the dunes, although smaller lodges closer to the dunes are more convenient.

Our view

While Le Mirage doesn't particularly blend in with its surroundings, it’s certainly different! If you don't mind staying in a larger lodge and you are looking for good spa facilities, it offers a comfortable base for trips to the dunes, although smaller lodges closer to the dunes are more convenient.

Elizabeth Chapman

Elizabeth Chapman

Namibia expert

Accommodation

27 rooms

Children

Best for aged 5+.

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Helicopter

Helicopter

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Quad-biking

Quad-biking

Traveller reviews of Le Mirage Lodge

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


80%
2 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
1
Good
0
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr and Mrs RBfromBristol

Arrived 1 Oct 2018, 2 nights

"Impressive site in the desert"

"More like a Moroccan read than a lodge - massive room, aircon …" Read Mr and Mrs RB’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs CHfromGuildford

Arrived 12 Apr 2017, 2 nights

"Good base for Sossuvei"

"Le Mirage is an odd looking structure but the strong winds during our stay …" Read Mrs CH’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

See all Le Mirage Lodge reviews

Le Mirage Lodge: Our full report

About 20km south of Sesriem, so within relatively easy reach of the dunes of Sossusvlei, Le Mirage Resort ...

... and Spa is – as the name suggests – both a lodge and a spa. It’s a somewhat imposing sight, a castle-like building in the middle of the desert.

Le Mirage is decorated in a Moroccan style, with bright blue contrasting with the orange of the desert outside; in fact the building would be better suited to Morocco than Namibia, where it sticks out for being different.

There are 27 twin rooms, all en suite and the ‘Oasis Rooms’ have balconies that look over the lush garden or out to the distant mountains. The rooms are spread over two separate buildings, with eight rooms in one, which also has a courtyard full of plants and waterfalls (Camelthorn Rooms), and the rest in the larger building (Oasis Rooms). This is complete with a pool, shaded by colourful bougainvillea and tall palms. The rooms are laid out so that every second room is much bigger than the two either side of it.

Moroccan-style antiques furnish the stone-walled rooms, whose four-poster beds are covered by monogrammed sheets. All rooms have air conditioning, a safe, an empty minibar (for which guests must request drinks), and tea- and coffee-making facilities. There are also two star decks on the ‘castle’ turrets, each complete with its own shower and toilet, where guests can sleep under the night sky: a romantic experience for a honeymoon or an anniversary, perhaps.

The main facilities at Le Mirage include a turquoise outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and a wine cellar. A choir sometimes performs at the sundowner spot, which also has a fire. Take a look at the cascading waterfall in reception, complete with fish and surrounded by tropical plants.

A decadent spa on the ground floor of the main building at Le Mirage Resort and Spa offers a wide choice of therapies. These include Thai and Indian massage and treatments such as facials, manicures and pedicures, in five treatment rooms. Three of the rooms offer a 'massage with a view', and some are also suitable for couples.

Other activities at Le Mirage include a Sossusvlei drive with a dune breakfast, bush dinners, nature drives and quad bike tours. The lodge can also arrange scenic flights over the area. For those wishing to drive themselves to Sossusvlei, note that the Sesriem Gate is around 20km away. (NB: It's essential that you read the Quadbike warning in the 'Health & Safety' section below for our comments on insurance issues regarding this activity.)

Geographics

Location
Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
2 nights
Directions
Le Mirage Resort and Spa is located on the C27, around 20km south of Sesriem.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Half Board
Food quality
Although we did not stay here when we visited in October 2018, we did take a look at the light lunch menu. This included smoked game fillet, spicy mussels, Greek or chicken Caesar salad, various gourmet sandwiches, vegetable stir-fry and a range of pasta dishes.

We understand that dinner is a five-course set menu.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
No

Special interests

Wellbeing
Le Mirage Resort and Spa offers a wide range of treatments and therapies, from massages and wraps to hydrotherapy and beauty treatments. Facilities also include a large pool and steam room. Combine a stay here with a visit to the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei
See ideas for Wellbeing in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
Children are welcome at Le Mirage Desert Lodge and Spa..
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions here.
Special activities & services
There are no special activities to cater for children.
Generally recommended for children
Although children of all ages are welcome at Le Mirage, there are no special activities to cater for children and because of the theme of the spa and relaxation, we believe it would be best for children aged 5+.
Notes
The pool is unfenced and children would require parental supervision.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Le Mirage Lodge

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Le Mirage Lodge 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

100% success

Aardvark

0% success

Brown Hyena

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Giraffe

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Meerkat

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Wildebeest

0% success

Zebra

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There are power sockets in all rooms, however you will need to bring your own adaptor.
Communications
WiFi is available in public areas.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Mains
Water supply notes
The showers are plumbed, the toilets are flush and there is plenty of hot water.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
No
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Mariental, but in an emergnecy, patients would be flown to WIndhoek.



Quadbike warning: Quadbiking is sometimes available as an activity in this area. As with any potentially dangerous activity, it's vital that you ensure that you have adequate travel insurance prior to taking part. Be aware in particular that some insurances cover quadbike activities only for bikes with lower engine ratings; check such clauses particularly carefully before you get on a bike.
Dangerous animals
Low Risk
Security measures
The property is fenced and there is guard at night.
Fire safety
There is a fire extinguisher in each of the rooms and there are fire extinguishers in the main area.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • Quad-biking

    Quad-biking

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
A laundry service is available for an extra charge.
Money
There is a safe in each room. Currency exchange is not possible.
Accepted payment on location
Visa and MasterCard are accepted here, as well as cash in Namibian dollars or South African rand.

Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa

All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.


Talk to an Expert

Call or email us now!
We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Le Mirage Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Le Mirage Lodge.


Excursions from Le Mirage Lodge

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Le Mirage Lodge. 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

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.


92% (364 reviews)
Hoodia Desert Lodge

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.


97% (232 reviews)
BullsPort Lodge and Farm

BullsPort Lodge & Farm

A traditional Namibian farm, BullsPort offers warm hospitality and a genuine rural experience, with excellent hiking and horseriding.


90% (200 reviews)
Sossus Dune Lodge

Sossus Dune Lodge

One of only two properties inside the Namib Naukluft Park, Sossus Dune Lodge has a superb location, for visiting the dunes.


89% (142 reviews)
Desert Homestead

Desert Homestead

With great-value accommodation in a lovely setting, Desert Homestead is a great base for exploring Sossusvlei.


91% (108 reviews)
Little Kulala

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.


98% (76 reviews)
Rostock Ritz

Rostock Ritz

The igloo-style chalets at Rostock Ritz offer exceptional desert views and make a convenient stopover between Swakopmund & Sossusvlei.


88% (46 reviews)
Barkhan Dune Retreat

Barkhan Dune Retreat

Barkhan Dune Retreat is a welcoming lodge close to the impressive Spreetshoogte Pass, majors on hiking and relaxation.


94% (40 reviews)
Sossusvlei Lodge

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.


92% (34 reviews)
Namib Outpost

Namib Outpost

About 30km from the gate to Sossusveli, Namib Outpost is a great base for exploring the dunes and surrounding attractions.


97% (22 reviews)
Dead Valley Lodge

Dead Valley Lodge

Dead Valley Lodge is inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, affording guests almost unprecedented access to the dunes.


90% (21 reviews)
Desert Camp

Desert Camp

Desert Camp is an economical option for independent travellers who want to self-cater, and is well situated for access to Sossusvlei.


94% (17 reviews)
Desert Quiver Camp

Desert Quiver Camp

Desert Quiver Camp is an economical option self-catering, well located for access to Sossusvlei.


98% (10 reviews)
Elegant Desert Lodge

Elegant Desert Lodge

Elegant Desert Lodge can be used as a base to visit Sossusvlei. It offers comfortable accommodation and facilities in the desert.


75% (8 reviews)
Corona Guest Farm

Corona Guest Farm

In central Namibia, north-east of the Namib-Naukluft, Corona Guest Farm offers a traditional farm stay and rugged hiking.


97% (7 reviews)
Namib Desert Lodge

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.


100% (3 reviews)
Sonop

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.


100% (3 reviews)
Camp Sossus

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.


100% (2 reviews)
Desert Hills Glamping Camp

Desert Hills Camp

Conveniently located for the renowned dunes of Sossusvlei Desert Hills Glamping Camp offers a simple but comfortable tents in picturesque surroundings.


90% (2 reviews)
Desert Grace

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.


100% (1 review)

When to go to Namib-Naukluft National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Le Mirage Lodge 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

Inspire me

Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?

Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure

Inspire me

Login to Expert Africa

Login or create an account below.

Forgotten your details?

Enter your email address and we'll send you a link to re-set your password.

Create wish-lists, send enquiries, make and manage your safari bookings, and more...

It's free & quick to set up

Benefits from creating an account.

  • Save your wish-list
  • Send us an enquiry
  • Pay online and manage your trip
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
  • Give us feedback on your trip
  • Enhanced features

Need some help? Talk to our team
Africa