About Rostock Ritz
Most frequently accessed by road on a self-drive itinerary, Rostock Ritz is around 240km from Windhoek or ...
... Swakopmund, and 120km from Sesriem. This quirkily designed lodge offers simple accommodation in an attractive setting with sweeping views of expansive gravel plains and the Rostock Mountains.
Whether you decide to stop for lunch or stay the night, Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge is a convenient place to break the journey between Swakopmund and Sesriem. It offers the opportunity to relax surrounded by superb scenery, with unique accommodation and friendly service. A stay at Rostock would also fit very well into a relatively slow trip around Namibia, with an accent on walking.
Our view
Whether you decide to stop for lunch or stay the night, Rostock Ritz Desert Lodge is a convenient place to break the journey between Swakopmund and Sesriem. It offers the opportunity to relax surrounded by superb scenery, with unique accommodation and friendly service. A stay at Rostock would also fit very well into a relatively slow trip around Namibia, with an accent on walking.
Country manager: Namibia
Accommodation
19 chalets
Children
Best for 6+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Traveller reviews of Rostock Ritz
46 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Chongololo Self-drive Safari
21 days • 11 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
This self-drive safari focuses on the best walking experiences in Namibia. Get your boots ready for the apricot dunes of the Namib Desert and the ancient hills of Damaraland.
Visiting Central Highlands, Namib-Naukluft and 4 other areas
US$9,100 - US$10,040 per person
Rostock Ritz: Our full report
Most frequently accessed by road on a self-drive itinerary, Rostock Ritz is around 240km from Windhoek or ...
... Swakopmund, and 120km from Sesriem. This quirkily designed lodge offers simple accommodation in an attractive setting with sweeping views of expansive gravel plains and the Rostock Mountains.
Rostock Ritz offers a total of 19 igloo-style stone chalets, whose unique design not only makes them feel part of the landscape but also helps to keep them cool in hot weather. On our last two visits, in 2016 and 2018, we felt that one of their best features was the panoramic desert view seen from every terrace. The landscape is somewhat barren, but a small waterhole in front of the chalets attracts oryx and zebra. All the chalets are simply furnished with a double or twin beds, mosquito nets, a fan, lock-up safe, a table and two chairs, whilst the three luxury rooms are larger and have a sofa. The en-suite bathrooms are small, with showers rather than bathtubs. One of the luxury rooms is a family unit consisting of two twin rooms with separate bathrooms linked together.
Hot water and electricity are generated by eco-friendly solar power, while the lighting has a generator back up, with lanterns helping to soften the atmosphere.
Rostock Ritz also has a reasonably well-equipped campsite with four camping pitches, separate ladies' and gents' ablution facilities (each with two washbasins, two showers and two flush toilets), electric lighting and a kitchen area with dishwashing facilities.
The main communal area at Rostock Ritz consists of a reception area, lounge, bar and restaurant as well as an outdoor terrace. It's a spacious but cosy building with low ceilings and a slightly cave-like feel, yet brightened in parts by panoramic views of the desert from large glazed windows. There is WiFi available here in the main area.
Outside the main area are two fenced enclosures, which are used as part of the lodge's meerkat rehabilitation programme. This project takes injured meerkats and those no longer wanted as pets and gives them the chance to socialise and build a family. Once the group is large enough and they are fully bonded, the new family is returned to the wild. They have successfully released over 50 animals to date.
A short walk from the main building is a large swimming pool, a popular spot to cool off in the heat of the day and to admire the view from some rather quirky hanging chairs.
Rostock Ritz was built, and is still owned, by one of Swakopmund's most successful restaurateurs. Its restaurant caters to both in-house guests and passing visitors stopping for lunch. Breakfast is usually a buffet, whilst the lodge offers an à la carte menu for both lunch and dinner.
Portions were very generous when we stayed and, while presentation lacked finesse, the food was very good. We also found the service friendly and quite efficient.
Although most guests stop only for lunch or perhaps one night, this 'Ritz' really deserves to be treated more seriously! For travellers who do stay longer, there is a range of activities, including a guided sundowner drive, a 4WD/walking trip to see Bushman cave paintings, and ten different self-guided hiking trails. On a previous visit, it was well worth the effort to wake up early and work up an appetite on the Sunrise Trail before breakfast, and we wished we had stayed another night to fit in more. GPS coordinates for the hiking trails are available from reception, as well as GSP devices to make sure you can always find your way back!
Geographics
- Location
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- Stay for two nights if you want to take advantage of the self-guided walks and scenery, although it can be used for one if you are simply looking to break the journey between Sesriem/Sossusvlei and Swakopmund.
- Directions
- Most frequently accessed by road on a self-drive itinerary, Rostock Ritz is around 240km from Windhoek or Swakopmund, and 120km from Sesriem. Turn off the C14 and it's a further 7km on a winding gravel road to the lodge. Alternatively, there is a 1.6km-long airstrip and the lodge can be reached by private light aircraft charter.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- Breakfast, served between 7.00am and 10.00am, is usually a buffet of cereals, yoghurt, fruit, cold meats, cheese and toast. A hot breakfast is cooked to order.
Lunch (served daily 12.00–3.00pm) and dinner (from 6.00pm) are served off from an à la carte menu, generally with a wide selection of starters and meat or fish dishes. We only visited for a short period in 2018, however, inin 2016 we found the portions very generous, and were glad we opted only for a main dish; the peri peri calamari may not have been refined, but it was very tasty!
There is a much smaller selection of dishes suitable for vegetarians, so it is best to advise the lodge in advance if you have specific dietary requirements. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is not available
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included.
Special interests
- Walking
- Rostock Ritz offers some lovely walking in Namibia, with over 60km of self-guided trails of varying lengths and difficulty. Walking here you can enjoy the Namib Desert, gravel plains, mountain ranges and deep canyons.
- See ideas for Walking in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions.
- Special activities & services
- There are no specific children’s meals on the menu, but options suitable for children can usually be ordered à la carte.
- Equipment
- There is a two-bedroom family chalet, but the lodge does not provide any special equipment such as highchairs or cots.
- Generally recommended for children
- Although children of all ages are welcome at Rostock Ritz, they don't provide any special equipment.
- Notes
- The pool is not fenced and there are some steep drops from the pool deck, and the balconies of the rooms, so children must be under supervision at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Rostock Ritz
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Rostock Ritz 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.
88% success
75% success
20% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is also a generator as a back up.
- Communications
- There is a central telephone and WiFi is available in the main area. The lodge normally has cellphone reception.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The rooms have plumbed-in showers and flushing toilets. Water is solar-heated.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- Some of the staff are trained in basic first aid. The nearest doctor is in Walvis Bay, approx 210km from Rostock.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- There is a night guard, normally on duty between 11.00pm and 6.00am. The chalets have locks on the doors.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are placed at stations outside the chalets.
Activities
4WD Safari
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- In Place
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry can be done on request.
- Money
- There is a safe in each of the chalets.
- Accepted payment on location
- Both cash (Namibian dollars, South African rands), and Visa and MasterCard are accepted forms of payment.
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Rostock Ritz's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Rostock Ritz.
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.
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.
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 Rostock Ritz 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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