About River Crossing
From a private game reserve, River Crossing’s views take in the mountains and the twinkling lights of Windhoek.
It’s an enticing setting, yet with the international airport just half an hour away, and the Namibian capital barely 3km, it’s well-placed to emphasise the sheer space of this exceptional country.
Dotting the hillside, terracotta-coloured bungalows make the most of the views, accentuating the lodge’s rural setting. Soak it all in from the individual verandas or unwind in air-conditioned comfort, the small seating areas and contemporary décor of each bungalow a perfect antidote to a busy road trip or a long flight.
Relaxation continues at the hub of the camp, where huge picture windows frame the mountains, backed by big leather sofas just made for lounging. Individual tables are laid both inside and on the deck, perfectly positioned to take in the sunset. Or enjoy your meal by the pool, perhaps after a refreshing dip.
From giraffe to waterbuck, many of Namibia’s wild animals are at home on the 65km2 reserve, with walks, game drives and even horseriding enabling exploration at your own pace. Then to round off the day, consider ordering a cocktail from the bar. At River Crossing, seclusion comes with style.
Accommodation
20 rooms
Children
Fine for all ages
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Self-guided walking
Traveller reviews of River Crossing
130 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 11 Oct 2024, 1 nights
"River Crossing review"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 5 Aug 2024, 1 nights
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Overall rating: Good
Arrived 18 Jul 2024, 1 nights
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Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 26 Jun 2024, 2 nights
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Overall rating: Good
Arrived 25 Jan 2024, 1 nights
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Overall rating: Good
Arrived 26 Nov 2023, 5 nights
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Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 10 Sep 2023, 1 nights
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Overall rating: Good
Arrived 2 Oct 2023, 1 nights
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Overall rating: Good
Arrived 3 Nov 2022, 1 nights
"River Crossing review"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 21 Sep 2022, 1 nights
"River Crossing review"
Overall rating: Good















Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the trips. See our 15 pictures of River Crossing to get the candid view.
View galleryRiver Crossing: Our full report
Just 3km from the centre of Windhoek, towards the airport, River Crossing is set in a 6,500-hectare game reserve.
Although it is close to Windhoek, it has a quiet rural setting and feels more like a safari lodge than a hotel. The lodge is built on a hill offering views of mountains in one direction, and the city of Windhoek in the distance in the other.
From the entrance at River Crossing, steps lead up to a modern U-shaped main building, where you are welcomed by friendly staff at a free-standing bar at the base of the U. To one side, the lounge area is filled with big leather sofas and dark-wood furniture, and decorated in russet colours. Floor-to-ceiling windows at one end give a light, bright feel and offer lovely views of the surrounding mountains. In the dining area, individual tables and chairs are set both inside and outside on the deck, with more stunning views.
Sheltered within the centre of the U outside is a rectangular swimming pool, surrounded by a relaxing patio where guests can sit for meals or drinks at any time of day.
Gravel pathways wind through the bush towards the rooms at River Crossing: 20 terracotta-coloured individual bungalows dotted along the hilltop. Of these, 14 have views towards the mountains and the sunrise, and six towards Windhoek, whose twinkling lights are appealing after dark. Most of the rooms are identical in style, although two 'honeymoon' rooms have a bath rather than a shower in the bathroom, and four of the rooms have three beds – ideal for guests travelling with children.
The rooms are simple in style, spacious, clean and are air conditioned. All have polished concrete floors scattered with rugs, and are decorated in neutral browns and creams in a range of textured fabrics. Black-and-white photos of Windhoek from bygone days adorn the walls, and bright patterned cushions and pillows add a splash of colour. The furniture is dark wood and you'll also find a well-stocked minibar (not included in the cost), tea and coffee making facilities, a wall-mounted television, a writing desk and two small seating areas – one inside, and one on the covered veranda. The en-suite bathrooms have a shower (or bath), single basin and toilet, with a range of toiletries provided.
River Crossing offers a selection of activities, at extra cost, all of which can be arranged locally. There are scenic drives by 4WD vehicle through the reserve, which is home to giraffe, eland, wildebeest, zebra, impala and waterbuck among others (N$600/£30 for 3 hours). Alternatively, guests can explore the area on foot with a local guide (N$250/£12 for 2 hours). There are also some nearby stables (not owned by the lodge) where it is possible to do morning and afternoon horse rides.
Geographics
- Location
- Windhoek, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- 1-2 nights
- Directions
- River Crossing is well signposted from the airport road, about 15 minutes' drive from the centre of Windhoek and 30 minutes from the airport. From the main road it is a further 2km to the lodge about 1.5km of which is on a gravel road and the last, steeper stretch is paved.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- Breakfast is served buffet style with a selection of fruit juices, cereals, yoghurts, freshly baked breads and muffins, cold meats and cheeses, as well as cooked options.
A light lunch menu offers sandwiches, chicken salad, mushroom pasta, fish and chips and beef sirloin or rump steak.
The dinner menu changes daily and includes three courses with a starter, choice of main course (normally fish, meat or vegetarian) and a dessert. On our last visit in October 2016 we tried the salmon and avocado salad starter, followed by pork neck in mustard with potato gratin, and chocolate brownie for desert. We thought the food was fair but not outstanding. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is available.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included. At the time of our visit a glass of wine cost N$35/£1.75, a beer N$20/£1.00 and a soft drink N$15/£0.75.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome at River Crossing.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions at River Crossing.
- Special activities & services
- There are no special activities for children, but they are welcome to take part in those activities on offer.
- Equipment
- A cot and highchair are available on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes
- Notes
- Children must be supervised by their parents at all times as the lodge is not fenced in and the pool is open.
Communications
- Communications
- WiFi is available in the main building as well as all the rooms and the area has good cellphone reception.
- TV & radio
- All rooms have TVs with a selection of satellite channels.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The borehole water is filtered for drinking
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- There are many doctors and hospitals in Windhoek.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- There are security guards on duty at night.
- Fire safety
- Each room has a fire extinguisher.
Activities
4WD Safari
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Full Laundry Service at extra cost, from N$5/£0.25 to N$30/£1.50 per item.
- Money
- There is no currency exchange available at the lodge, but that can be arranged at the airport or in Windhoek. There are no safes in the rooms but valuable can be left in the main safe at reception.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and MasterCard are accepted as well as cash in Namibian dollars and South African rand.
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River Crossing's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of River Crossing.
Excursions from River Crossing
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at River Crossing. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Windhoek City Tour
three hour Windhoek City Tour
Windhoek city tours offer a mix of history, culture, and local flavour, showcasing Namibia’s colonial landmarks, vibrant markets, and cuisine.
More about Windhoek City TourOther lodges in Windhoek
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When to go to Windhoek
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit River Crossing in Windhoek
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Namibia in January
January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.
Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
- Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
- Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
- Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Namibia in February
February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.
Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
- The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Namibia in March
March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.
Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.
- Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
- Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
- Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
- Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Namibia in April
Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.
With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.
- Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
- Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
- Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
- Migrant birds have started to leave
- Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Namibia in May
By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.
Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.
May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.
- Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
- The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
- Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
- Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
- Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Namibia in June
Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.
Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.
Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.
- Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
- Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
- “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
- Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
- Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Namibia in July
Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ºC/70ºF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.
As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).
- Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
- Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
- The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Namibia in August
August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.
It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.
Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.
- Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
- Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
- Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
- Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
- A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Namibia in September
September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.
In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.
- One of the best months for wildlife viewing
- Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
- Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
- Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
- High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Namibia in October
Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ºC/100ºF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.
In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.
- Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
- Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
- The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
- It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
- Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Namibia in November
November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.
Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.
- A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
- With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
- Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
- Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
- Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Namibia in December
December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!
Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.
Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.
- Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
- Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
- A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
- Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
- Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December

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