About Namib Desert Lodge
Namib Desert Lodge is just 60km north of Sesriem on the C19 road, at the foot of a red sandstone cliff, the ...
... “fossilised" dunes. It is a large lodge with 68 en-suite rooms set out in rows amongst beautiful gardens; this is one of the less costly options for accommodation in the Sesriem area.
The Namib Desert Lodge is a big lodge which is functional rather than full of character. However, it's comfortable, very good value and makes a reasonable base for excursions into Sossusvlei – and with a little more time, the fossil dunes which form its backdrop are well worth exploring.
Our view
The Namib Desert Lodge is a big lodge which is functional rather than full of character. However, it's comfortable, very good value and makes a reasonable base for excursions into Sossusvlei – and with a little more time, the fossil dunes which form its backdrop are well worth exploring.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
68 rooms
Children
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Traveller reviews of Namib Desert Lodge
3 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryNamib Desert Lodge: Our full report
Namib Desert Lodge is just 60km north of Sesriem on the C19 road, at the foot of a red sandstone cliff, the ...
... “fossilised" dunes. It is a large lodge with 68 en-suite rooms set out in rows amongst beautiful gardens; this is one of the less costly options for accommodation in the Sesriem area.
Namib Desert Lodge caters mostly for the big coach tour groups – and visitors should be aware of this before they come here. Despite this, it is fairly relaxed and comfortable, provided that you can ignore the hussle and bussle that comes with a lot of people. It certainly has plenty of lounging areas and lots of helpful staff.
The Desert Lodge has a big reception area that contains a curio shop which sells quite a variety of things, from handmade jewellery to children's books.
Walkways from the reception lead through the gardens to the rooms, which all have private verandas. These rooms are light, quite basic but comfortable and clean – note that all are en-suite and that no smoking is allowed.
Each of the rooms at Namib Lodge has a small, free-standing fan, a wardrobe, a suitcase rack, a writing desk, mosquito nets, wire mesh screens in front of the windows and an en-suite bathroom with shower. There are no electronic safes in the rooms. The rooms at Namib Desert Lodge are next to each other, terraced-house-style in rows, with a walkway running in front of each row. Because of the walkways, the rooms are not particularly quiet or secluded. You'll hear when others walk past your room – we noticed this especially after dinner, when everyone heads for bed.
The Namib Desert Lodge has two swimming pools: a fresh-water pool and a salt-water pool. Around each swimming pool are plenty of loungers and wooden boxes that hold the pool towels.
There's also a big indoor restaurant with a bar, and a separate outside pool bar where the inviting terrace has views of the follilised dunes – which are also enjoyed by some of the rooms, especially ones at the back of the lodge. At night, lights at the bottom of the dunes are switched on which makes it even more impressive!
Probably the lodge's biggest building is the open-plan restaurant and adjacent bar. One wall of this is beautifully hand-painted and, despite the big windows, it still remains fairly dark and cool – a welcome feeling during the heat of the day. Long dining tables cater for the bus groups, whilst smaller tables are usually set up for individual travellers. As you'd expect, a restaurant like this can be quite a busy place when the lodge is full. Towards the back of the restaurant is another, smaller room that is sometimes used as an overflow when the main restaurant is very busy.
We'd usually recommend the Namib Desert Lodge for self-driving visitors who need a reasonably-priced place to stay near Sesriem – and these travellers will usually organise their own trips in the own vehicles.
However, there are quite a few activities on offer here organised by the team at Namib Desert Lodge – including a sunrise drive that will take you to the top of the fossil dunes, which lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes; a sun-downer drive, which last about 150 minutes and gives an introduction to landscape around the lodge, including the mountains, the dunes and some interesting geology, fauna and flora. Drinks and snacks are included with both drives
There are also two walking trails at the Namib Lodge; one is designed as a guided trail, whilst guests are encouraged to walk around the other by themselves. The latter trail is a short (barely 45 minutes), clearly marked route that will take you from the lodge along the river bed to the foot of the fossil dunes. The trail which is guided (usually referred to as “the guided scenic escarpment trail") takes about 3 hours and heads up the slopes onto the fossil dunes.
Geographics
- Location
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- We often recommend that travellers stay about two nights in this area, because the dunes are worth time to visit them – and it's a long drive between here and either Windhoek or Swakopmund.
- Directions
- Namib Desert Lodge is 60km north of Sesriem on the C19, about 30 km south of Solitaire. The turn off is well marked and the lodge is a further 5km from the main road.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- Breakfast is normally a buffet served from between 06:30 and 09:00. You can expect a variety of cold meats, cheese, cereals, bread, fruits, juices, tea and coffee.
Light lunches are available throughout the afternoon; you'll find the menu written on a board outside the restaurant.
Tea and coffee is available throughout the day at Namibia Desert Lodge and 'afternoon tea' with cake is offered from 15:00 till 17:00.
Dinner is a three-course set menu and served from between 18:30 till 21:00. Starters and dessert are served on the table but salads and the main course are available on the buffet. On our last visit we had Quiche Florentine with a cheese sauce as a starter. The main course was a choice between kudu steak or meat balls with noodles, sweet potatoes, butter carrots & fried butternut. Dessert was guava biscotti with cream.
The food at Namibia Lodge was generally good and staff were on hand to clear the table, and sometimes they seemed a little over-zealous to us – a little too quick to clear the table whilst we were still there! - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- No drinks are included. Soft drinks and water typically cost N$10–N$15, spirits N$14–N$22, beer N$14–N$27 and wines about N$90–N$155 per bottle.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Yes children are very welcome at Namib Desert Lodge
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions
- Special activities & services
- There is a short walking trail suitable for parents and children.
- Equipment
- Highchairs can be provided
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Namib Desert Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Namib Desert 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.
100% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Communications
- The lodge has a weak mobile reception and there are no phones in the rooms. There is no internet, email or fax facility for guests.
- TV & radio
- There is a satellite TV at the pool bar.
Sustainability
A game-changing solar energy experiment
Within Gondwana Namib Park, Namib Desert Lodge offers a sustainable getaway in the world’s oldest desert. Committed to break the misconception that bigger accommodation establishments cannot follow eco-friendly concepts, the 65-rooms lodge has gained its reputation through the implementation of a large-scale solar energy project.
In 2017, the Namib Desert Lodge took on a Namibian Tourism experimental development initiative by installing 1,700 solar panels onto the roofs of the guest chalets and several other buildings. Today, the lodge generates 200,000 kWh of electricity annually, covering 50% of the energy requirements. The solar power plant is the first of its size operating under extreme desert conditions, and has brought the camp a five desert flower rating from Eco Awards Namibia, as well as helping it win the 2018 Responsible Tourism Awards.
Carrying on with a positive sustainable reputation, if the one-year trial run proves successful, the solar project will be repeated at other lodges within Gondwana Canyon Park.
See more great sustainability projects in Namibia
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- The closest hospital is in Mariental or Rehoboth – several hours' drive away
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- None
- Fire safety
- There are no fire extinguishers in the rooms, but there are some in and around the main areas.
Activities
4WD Safari
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- In Place
- Laundry facilities
- Full Laundry Service - Extra Charge
- Money
- Money exchange is not possible.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and Mastercard accepted with no surcharge
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Namib Desert Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Namib Desert Lodge.
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.
Corona Guest Farm
In central Namibia, north-east of the Namib-Naukluft, Corona Guest Farm offers a traditional farm stay and rugged hiking.
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 Namib Desert 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
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