Reviews of Sam's Giardino
Wildlife sightings and reviews
173 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Sam's Giardino and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
"Sam's Giardino review"
"Sam's Giardino review"
"Sam's Giardino review"
"A garden oasis"
"Sam's Giardino review"
Being slightly further from the centre of town means that it may be necessary to drive for an evening meal out.
The 5-course dinner is worth it.
Internet access very helpful.
It would be useful to have a safe in the room.
The garden is a delight and we could sit around when ever not busy doing other things.
They were very helpful organising sand-boarding, though unfortunately high winds meant it was cancelled" See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
Rooms were pleasant and overlooked the garden which was lovely for relaxation with water features and nice planting. Short walk into town and its attractions and Sam provided us with a map." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia
"Friendly atmosphere at Sams"
We didn't eat there but he was happy to suggest places to eat and book us a table. Beethoven, a huge Bernise mountain dog, was very friendly and barked a welcome as you came into the tranquil garden via the outside gate. Breakfast was a casual affair with a good choice and Sam on hand to discuss your plans for the day. The rooms were adequate and functional.
Expert Africa organised for these travellers a day-trip to Sandwich Harbor; they commented:
Ernst our driver and tour guide for the day trip was great he was very knowledgeable and passionate about the environment and wildlife and a very experienced 4x4 driver. The trip was a full day and included a lovely two course lunch at a great location on the edge of the dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The time in Sandwich Harbour is governed by the tide and unfortunately we didn't get much time there to explore however there was lots else to see." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Welcome return to Sam's Giardino"
We enjoyed his wine-tasting, he is so well-informed and enthusiastic. His dog, of course, was on form as co-host, and the beautiful garden was a haven of rest after a hard day's shopping." See all these reviews: 17n in Namibia
"Sams Garden oif Eden."
A high-light of our stay was the catamaran trip in Walvis Bay. Seals on the boat, large dolphins chasing the boat and further out of the bay there were hundreds of small dusky dolphins which apparently only appear two or three times a year. How lucky were we! We even saw several huge sun fish. All this and sparkling wine and fresh oysters." See all these reviews: 6n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
We felt like a more casual meal one evening and had great pizza at the 3 N'amigos Pizzeria on Daniel Tjongarero Street (next Hansa Bakerei and near Nathaniel Maxuilili Street).
During our stay, we went cross-country sand skiing with Henrik May from Ski Namibia. We'd picked up a flyer at Sam's on our previous visit and organised the tour independently with Henrik via email from the UK. Using conventional cross-country ski equipment (but shorter poles), we followed a route that took us over the tops of the dunes behind Swakopmund. It is amazing how much easier it is to traverse the dunes on skis than on foot and we soon reached the top with a view of the sea. Henrik also offers downhill sand skiing and telemark. If you are keen skier and want to try something different, this excursion is well worth booking. He also sells Ski Namibia t-shirts, a very novel souvenir from a trip to a country renowned for its desert landscape!
Whilst here, we organised a Day trip to Sandwich Harbour for these travellers. They commented:
This was a lovely day out and it was refreshing to spend a day by the sea after a week in the desert. Our guide gave us an interesting tour of the coast, Sandwich Harbour and the nearby dunes. Lunch was very nice. We also enjoyed the chance to meet other Expert Africa customers on the tour and the hear about their experiences in Namibia.
Only one issue: our feet were badly sunburnt at the end of the day, as we didn't think to put suncreen on them when we took our shoes off to walk around Sandwich Harbour! It might be a good idea for Turnstone to warn people about this before they head off on their walk around the harbour." See all these reviews: 18n in Namibia
Holiday styles & special interests in Namibia
From birdwatching breaks to walking holidays, find great ideas for your trip in Namibia.
Other lodges in Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Cornerstone Guesthouse
Cornerstone Guesthouse is a small friendly B&B in a peaceful residential area. It's just a short walk from Swkopmund's waterfront & amenities.
Strand Hotel
One of the larger hotels in Swakopmund, the Strand is well-placed on the seafront with good access to restaurants and the centre of town.
The Stiltz
Not your typical guesthouse, The Stiltz occupies a glorious location over the Swakop River on the edge of Swakopmund.
Villa Margherita
Villa Margherita is a beautifully renovated B&B in the heart of Swakopmund, with comfortable, well-appointed rooms, and friendly and attentive staff.
Beach Lodge
Right on the sea front, Beach Lodge offers good standard accommodation and its own restaurant, 15 minutes’ drive from Swakopmund.
Lagoon Lodge
Lagoon Lodge is a quirky little guesthouse located right on the edge of Walvis Bay Lagoon, a good spot for watching the flamingoes that frequent the area.
The Delight
Colourful and contemporary in style, The Delight is a relatively large hotel within a short walk of Swakopmund's waterfront, restaurants and main attractions.
Swakopmund Guesthouse
Swakopmund Guesthouse is a family-run B&B, boasting comfortable and high-quality rooms with a maritime touch.
Brigadoon
In a quiet residential location, Brigadoon is conveniently located for the Swakopmund waterfront and amenities.
Hansa Hotel
With a very central location in Swakopmund, the traditional Hansa Hotel is reliably good, though it is quite formal.
Secret Garden
Secret Garden Guesthouse is well located in the centre of Swakopmund not far from the sea. With a seaside feel, it has its own small restaurant and bar.
Sea Breeze
Just north of Swakopmund, the delightful Sea Breeze Guesthouse is bright and well-looked after with welcoming and helpful owners.
Cornerstone Apartments
Cornerstone Guesthouse’s three self-catering apartments, each in its own unique location, work well for families or groups of travellers seeking space & privacy within a comfortable, contemporary setting.
Desert Breeze
Not your typical Swakopmund guesthouse, Desert Breeze occupies a glorious location overlooking the Swakop River and the desert beyond.
Pelican Point Lodge
Pelican Point Lodge sits on a remote peninsula offering panoramic views of the ocean and is only accessible by 4WD or boat.
Namib Guesthouse
The Namib Guesthouse is a small, modern B&B, set in Swakopmund's peaceful Kramersdorf area. It's just a short walk from the coast and many amenities.
Oyster Box Guesthouse
Oyster Box Guesthouse is a small, modern and comfortable B&B, overlooking Walvis Bay Lagoon.
Pearls Beach Pods
With a beachfront location, superb sea views and easy access to the amenities of Swakopmund, The Pearls Beach Pods combine privacy with a high standard of luxury.
Swakopmund Sands
The relatively substantial Swakopmund Sands Hotel lies in a quiet area of the town, close to the beach yet within walking distance of tourist amenities.
