Okahirongo Elephant Lodge: Our full report

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge stands on the banks of Hoarusib River, in one of Namibia's most pristine regions, ...

... the malaria-free Purros Conservancy. This area is home to a number of desert-adapted game, including elephant, black rhino, lion, giraffe, zebra and springbok – roaming in a setting of true wilderness. None of the Expert Africa team have visited Okahirongo Elephant Lodge yet, but here is what we know about it:

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge has seven luxurious chalets, built from local stone; each chalet has one double bedroom, decorated in warm colours, and equipped with locally carved furnishings, fans and mosquito nets. The en-suite bathrooms have double basins, outdoor as well as indoor showers, and baths overlooking the lodge's breathtaking surroundings. Outside, there's a private verandah, complete with a queen-size sun lounger for relaxing on during the afternoon or sleeping under stars.

In addition, Okahirongo Elephant Lodge has one Presidential suite with two double bedrooms, a separate lounge area, a veranda and a private gazebo.

Okahirongo's main guest facilities include a swimming pool, surrounded by a terrace and shady spots to relax. Open-sided buildings, which are linked by wooden walkways, house two lounge areas, a library, two dining rooms, and a traditional Namibian boma with a log-fire place – so guest can chose whether they want to dine inside, or al fresco under the starry African sky.

Whilst staying at Okahirongo Lodge, a variety of activities can be arranged for you. Tracking the area's desert-adapted elephants and lions; daily scenic drives, as well as day and night game drives in open 4x4 vehicles; guided hiking along the Hoarusib River valley; morning desert walks; trips to the salt water springs and rock formations at Ogams; or cultural visits to the nearby Himba village – here, you're spoilt for choice.

Our view

Although we haven't yet seen it ourselves, Okahirongo Elephant Lodge appears to be a good choice for those aiming to explore one of Namibia's most remote areas. It's stands in a very remote area, surrounded by vast open spaces, and promises lots of activities.

Tom Morris

Country manager: Namibia

Geographics

Location: Skeleton Coast & Kaokoland, Namibia
Directions: Starting from Sesfontein, turn west onto the district road D3707 to Purros – note that this road is often in poor condition, so 4x4 vehicles are essential. Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is well signposted a few kilometres past Purros.
Alternatively, you can fly in a light aircraft from Windhoek to Purros, which takes about 2h15min; transfers from the airstrip to the lodge are included in the rates.
Accessible by: Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board & Activities
Food quality: Okahirongo Elephant Lodge serves a fusion of Italian and African flavours; the ingredients are mostly grown in the lodge's organic gardens to ensure maximum freshness, and the menu changes daily.
Dining style: Individual Tables
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service: No
Drinks included: Yes – soft drinks, local beers and house wines during meals are included; cellar wines and premium brand drinks are not included.

Special interests

Cultural experiences: Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is an extremely remote lodge, in the northwest corner of Namibia. It’s only neighbour is the nearby Himba village where you can go on guided visits, and gain insights into the culture and everyday life of these semi-nomadic, desert-dwelling people.; See ideas for Cultural experiences in Namibia
Luxury: Sun-loungers on your private veranda double as a luxurious bed for sleeping under the stars. Moreover, locally carved furnishings with lovely African patterns and a sparkling swimming pool are only a few of Okahirongo Elephant Lodge’s sumptuous facilities.; See ideas for Luxury in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended: No
Dangerous animals: Moderate Risk
Security measures: Okahirongo Elephant Lodge has a secure parking area; each chalet has a safe for personal belongings.
Fire safety