Barkhan Dune Retreat: Our full report
Set in probably one of Namibia's most scenic areas, Barkhan Dune Retreat is just 20km away from the impressive ...
... Spreetshoogte Pass and about 27km from Solitaire. It makes for a convenient stopover between Swakopmund and Windhoek, en route to Sesriem/Sossusvlei.Barkhan Dune lodge is small with only ten rooms Commbined with the fact that the new owners Alma and Barney are always around, preparing your meals and often joining you in the lounge for a drink, this makes it a very homely feeling property.
Even though we might have occasional qualms about items of Barkhan Dune's décor, like the zebra-skin rugs on the floors, the en-suite rooms are relatively sparsely decorated, but lovely, light and spacious. Big windows allow a lot of light and the views from the bedrooms are just stunning. Each room has a double bed, an extra sleeper couch, a mosquito net, a writing desk and a flask with cold water. There are no tea/coffee facilities in the rooms.
Each room at Barkhan Dune has a large en-suite bathroom with a shower, and rather oddly a desk by the sink area. On our last visit we found the placement of the mirror a few metres from the sink a frustration when shaving, although we appreciated that nice big towels, shampoo and shower gel are provided.
Outside each room at the Dune Retreat is a shaded sitting area where a cool box with cold drinks is placed for your enjoyment. Afternoon tea/coffee and cake is served in the main area at 15:00. However, if you don't feel like walking to the main area, then you can have it served on your terrace, and from August to January you can often spot oryx from here.
For those looking for something a little more private, Barkhan Dune offers a two-person cabin just a short drive from the main building. This cabin, known as KuanguKuangu, is a peaceful getaway and quite isolated - a great spot to escape and unwind (read more at the very bottom of this page).
They also have a self-catering house (Okanti) which can sleep up to five travellers, ideal for a family or friends traveling together.
The lounge/dining room at Barkhan Retreat is small but cosy, with big windows that let in lots of sunshine. Furnished with a big dinner table, two loose leather chairs and two bigger sofas, plus a fireplace and 'library', it's a great place to just sit and read or admire the view. A very nice feature of the lounge is a small courtyard garden, which is partially shaded and so has a pleasantly cool feel even when it's hot elsewhere.
Outside the main building, which is also the owner's private house, are one or two wooden statues and a couple of tables and chairs. It's a great spot to admire the amazing scenery from.
Walkways lead to the rooms, and there is a small plunge-pool in the rocks (big enough to sit in, if not to plunge into!) which is only filled during the summer months.
However we are told that the new owners are going to be renovating the main area and also building a swimming pool in December.
Around Barkhan Dune Retreat are one or two hiking trails, designed to help guests to explore this stunning area. Although formal activities aren't normally included here, there is an excellent 'sundowner' farm drive included in the rate.
Trips to the impressive Spreetshoogte Pass, run by the team from Barkhan Dune Retreat, can usually also be organised at an extra cost.
Our view
Barkhan Dune is an unusual but characterful property with a stunning location in the foothills of the Naukluft Mountains. It works well as a memorable and quirky stopover between Windhoek and Sossusvlei, although those looking for a more traditional style guesthouse or hotel may want to pass it by.
Namibia expert
Geographics
- Location
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- One or two nights
- Directions
- Situated on the D1275 road, an easy drive along the C14 en-route to Swakopmund / Walvisbay.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- When we last visited the cooking was very good and meals times are fairly flexible.
On our last visit in May 2018, we had arrived early and were offered a light lunch at 13:00 of quiche and salad and iced tea.
Dinner is served around 19:00 and usually in the great company of your hosts. We had fish soup as a starter followed by kudu steak with fried onions & potatoes. For dessert we had baked cheese cake which was absolutely delicious!
Breakfast consisted of freshly squeezed juice, fresh baked bread, a small choice of cereals and a cooked breakfast (bacon, choice of eggs and freshly-baked bread). - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- soft drinks
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children from 10 years of age and above.
- Property’s age restrictions
- no children under the age of 10 years
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- Yesbut
- Notes
- Obviously children should always be closely supervised by adults.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Barkhan Dune Retreat
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Barkhan Dune Retreat 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.
86% success
50% success
40% success
20% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Communications
- There is no mobile reception or phones in the rooms at Barkhan Dune Retreat. Internet and email available at reception, but really for in emergencies only; that said, the new owners Alma and Barney are very welcoming and will help wherever they can.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The water from the borehole is filtered and suitable for drinking, but bottled water is also available.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- The closest doctor is in Rehoboth, about 200km away.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- None
- Fire safety
- There are no fire extinguishers in the rooms, but one can be found in the main building.
Activities
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Available at N$150 per 6kg. Hand in before breakfast for same day return.
- Money
- Currency exchange not possible and travellers cheques not accepted. There are no safes in the rooms.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash only is accepted.
Room types at Barkhan Dune Retreat
KuanguKuangu Cabin
KuanguKuangu Luxury Cabin is a private cabin on the same property as Barchan Dune, and continues the same style.
With just one bedroom sleeping two in a comfy double bed, KuanguKuangu will appeal to honeymooners and those wishing to get away from it all. The bed looks out over the beautiful orange hues of the Namib-Nauklift National Park. There's electricity, hot water and mobile phone coverage here.
Behind the bedroom is the bathroom and a small kitchen, built around the rock. The kitchen allows for self catering, and there's also a braai area outside. For those wishing to feel a little less isolated, or who do not wish to cook, dinner can be eaten at Barchan Dune Retreat.
KuanguKuangu Luxury Cabin is built from natural materials and uses a white and orange colour scheme, in keeping with the colours of the desert. The room is very comfortable with plenty of space, and being away from the rest of the lodge there's a wonderful peace and quiet here. Sitting out, watching the sunset with a glass of wine and appreciating the silence is all part of the experience here.
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.
Zebra River Lodge
Zebra River Lodge offers a range of hikes around the Tsaris Mountains from a comfortable and homely base.
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.
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.
The Nest
Designed to emulate the appearance of a sociable weaver nest the opulent Nest at Sossus is arguably the most exclusive private property in the Sossuvlei area.
