Reviews of Kulala Desert Lodge
Wildlife sightings and reviews
362 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Kulala Desert Lodge and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
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"Lodge okay... Balloon ride not to be missed"
Staff was pleasant and friendly. Trip to the nearby canyon was a disappointment. The dunes Soussevlei were awesome.
The guide, Peitrus was very accomodating and friendly/knowledgable.
The balloon ride (outside vendor) and breakfast in the desert was one of the highlights of the entire trip. The balloonist (Dennis) was very friendly and entertaining." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
"Kulala in touch with nature"
The cabins were fantastic with stunning views. The temperature was very hot and the fans and the canvas flaps allowed us to keep cool. All rooms all had body and room mosquito spray, even though we didn't need it.
Although initially a bit horror stuck to discover that our veggies did not eat chicken or fish, the chef came out to the table to discuss meal options, which when delivered were of the highest standard. Once again the food was of an exceptional standard as was the quality of service.
The staff were lovely and interested in us, the after dinner singing was superb. Our guide Wilhem was outstanding and very patient with everybody. Another outstanding experience." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Kulala Desert Lodge"
The setting is fantastic. The rooms were very comfortable and the welcome was warm and friendly. I cannot fault their care. Specifically we were advised to crack on with our planned activities (balloon flight and trip to Sossusvlei) as the weather was closing in. Thank Heavesn we did as everything was cancelled th next day. The balloon flight is a must. We have ballooned across the Serengeti and frankly this was better. The pilots were superb and amazingly skilled. A top ten lifetime experience.
The DeadVlei was amazing. A bit like an early Star Trek set or an artists installation. Also, the dunes were heaving with life. Beetles, lizards, butterflies etc.
To be honest, I was not looking forward to this part of the trip much but I was astonished. It was a magical place to visit." See all these reviews: 12n in Namibia
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
The early morning trip to watch sunrise over the dunes was incredible - the guide was superb - and we had a delicious lunch on our return. Staff were very helpful and attentive. Sunsets equally as impressive." See all these reviews: 12n in Namibia
"Desert magic at Kulala Desert Lodge"
The balloon trip which began the day was memorable and the pilot (Paul) made sure everyone toasted our anniversary.
Our guide, Christoff, was exceptionally knowledgeable and was very kind to us "oldies", choosing a relatively easy dune for us to climb (Dune 45) - great fun coming down!.." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
Everything was top of the range including the view from our own bungalow of the dunes, the doors fully opened onto a veranda and they are positioned so you see no one else. The staff were excellent and happy to tell you about the local customs in terms of dress, language and culture.
My partner did the balloon trip and felt it was worth the money, as it as unforgettable. The lodge works hard to offer responsible tourism i.e. cold water is available all day to avoid buying bottled water." See all these reviews: 17n in Namibia
"A nice place near the dunes"
The staff is friendly and trying to do their best but it was difficult to figure out who was who, as when they introduce themselves they never say what their function was. The introductory talk with the manager (?) was a bit hasty and it wasn't too clear what exactly the activities were about, so we had to ask them to explain again.
The balloon trip is definitely worth doing." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Kulala Desert Lodge review"
We have two main complaints. The first complaint is the cost of the activities which we found excessive for what was included. Over $1,000 Namibian dollars for the morning excursion into the Dunes which included a cup of coffee, a biscuit and a bit of fruit. The guide wasn't very informative and didn't really have much passion for the job. He drove us there and then back. We did try to engage him but it's not our job to ask all the questions it is his job to inform and enthuse us.
We were told that if we wanted to drive into the park ourselves that we couldn't use the lodges private access but would have to drive out of the park and then in through the main gate. I would have thought that paying premium prices to stay at the lodge should have entitled us to access the park ourselves or with a guided tour. The evening game drive was $600 (£60!) and there was very little wildlife to see here. Bagatelle Ranch charged us $60 Namibian (£6) and we had a fantastic guide, lots of game to enjoy and a sundowner drink with snacks.
We didn't really like the dining area as it felt like a canteen with no music or atmosphere although the bar area and outside areas were beautiful." See all these reviews: 22n in Namibia
"Great trip to Soussevlei from Kulala"
The food was excellent with fresh salads and vegetables in the middle of the desert 7 hours travelling from Windhoek or Swakompmund amazing. Great friendly staff who could not do enough for you.
We took advantage of their game drive to Sosssivlei which set off at 5am, well worth doing as they have their own private entrance into the Namib-Nauflunt reserve which saves over 100kms over public roads, we stopped for photo's of the sunrise plus a clamber up Dune 45 before the main attraction which was amazing and surpassed my high expectations!
Also went on a sundowner nature drive which was fun and the guide (Pretorus) was very imformative." 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.
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.
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.
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.
