Reviews of Hoodia Desert Lodge
Wildlife sightings and reviews
231 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Hoodia Desert Lodge and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
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"Sets the standard for lodge hospitality"
The setting is stunning, the communal areas are spacious and luxurious, the thatched bungalows are compact but comfortable and well-appointed, the staff are friendly and attentive, and the food is exceptional. We can't remember eating a better steak than the one served on our first night, and we could have eaten the home-made bread all day.
Our excursion to Sossusvlei next morning involved a 6:15 start after a full breakfast at 5:30. Petrus, our driver and guide, explained the formation of the spectacular landscape; showed us the insects, the reptiles, the birds and the animals; led us up the ridge of Big Daddy dune - slowly - and showed us how to descend into Dead Vlei - quickly. The "picnic lunch" that followed was a splendid affair - table cloth and linen napkins, chilled wine, and delicious food to Hoodia standards. A memorable day was finished off by a walk into Sesriem Canyon before a return to Hoodia - and a welcome with hot towels from Thomas - ten hours after we had set off. It was a memorable day.
Thomas and Henreza and their cheerful hard-working team really do set the standard for lodge hospitality." See all these reviews: 13n in Namibia
"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"
From welcome by Thomas Becker and every aspect was excellent.
Although we didn't go on the Lodge excursion to Sossusvlei ( too long a walk for me to Dead Vlei) Thomas suggested exactly what we should do, provided us with picnic lunch and folding chairs.
Food was beautifully presented and delicious" See all these reviews: 17n in Namibia; 1n in South Africa
"Spectacular location"
The staff couldn't have been more helpful, especially when we returned really late for dinner due to sunset horse riding experience. They were still extremely cheerful as they served us dinner.
It was a great location to experience all that Sesriem has to offer and then come back and relax by the pool.
Additionally, amazing having so many birds living by the lodge and we loved seeing all the Springbok on the long drive from the road." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia
"Amazing stay at Hoodia Desert Lodge"
On reaching the lodge we received a very genuine welcome from the owners and staff. Food was excellent - probably the best meals of the whole holiday and this was preceded by drinks on the terrace overlooking the dry river bed. Dietary requirements were noted and respected with no need for reminders (not always the case in other places). Excellent wine selection at reasonable prices.
Highlight of our stay was the day trip to Sossusvlei. Our guide for the day was lodge owner Thomas as his regular guide was on holiday and he gave us a truly memorable day out, sharing his knowledge of the area and the country as a whole. Although the day was rather overcast for photography, this made it much easier for climbing sand dunes and the walk to Dead Vlei which we were lucky enough to get all to ourselves - again due to good planning by Thomas. Mid morning drinks and lunch were served with style and panache - true African luxury! A long day was rounded off by a walk at Sesriem Canyon. Although this trip may seem expensive we felt it was worth every penny.
Rooms were quite warm but this may have been due to power cuts affecting the air conditioning - not a regular occurrence. Outside bath and shower were fantastic and we saw warthogs, steenboks, springboks and baboons nearby.
Hoodia was everything we hoped for and more." See all these reviews: 13n in Namibia
"Hoodia is a first rate lodge"
Highly recommended." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"
Food was superb - especially the imaginative vegetarian meals.
With temperatures of 45C it was extremely HOT!! The AC in the room failed to work apparently it was 'too hot for it'! Thankfully it eventually worked at some time in the night when the temperature fell a little.
Wifi was available - pleasant surprise." See all these reviews: 18n in Namibia
"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"
The room was fine,though because the bed was in the middle it seemed quite small,but cleverly arranged.Fine desert view from the bathroom outside.
They set up a excellent picnic lunch to take to the dunes,and had a good wine list ,and nicely presented food in the dining room.
the situation is good ,reasonably near the dunes,which is a help in the early morning." See all these reviews: 13n in Namibia
"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"
The service is really good though and there is WiFi in the reception.
It is well placed for visiting the dunes but only accessible in either direction over about 300Km of gravel road. The one between Sesriem and Walvis bay is particularly bad especially at the Sesriem end.
The Service station in Sesriem is convenient for petrol and also deals with tyres." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia; 6n in South Africa
"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"
Great base to explore Sossusvlei." See all these reviews: 12n in Namibia
"Hoodia - a fantastic place to stay"
We would have liked an extra day here (at least)." See all these reviews: 17n 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 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.
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.
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.
Dead Valley Lodge
Dead Valley Lodge is inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, affording guests almost unprecedented access to the dunes.
Namib Outpost
About 30km from the gate to Sossusveli, Namib Outpost is a great base for exploring the dunes and surrounding attractions.
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.
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 Hills Camp
Conveniently located for the renowned dunes of Sossusvlei Desert Hills Glamping Camp offers a simple but comfortable tents in picturesque surroundings.
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.
