Namtib Desert Lodge: Our full report
Namtib Desert Lodge is located just off the D707 – one of southern Namibia’s most scenic roads.
It is part of the Namtib Biosphere Reserve – a farm covering about 16,400 hectares on the edge of the Namib Desert.As a “biosphere reserve" Namtib is making a real concerted effort to ensure that all the activities on their land – both farming and human – are adapted to suit the conditions of the area, aiming to provide long-term and sustainable use of this environment.
The lodge itself is run by Torsten and Linn and their many friendly dogs! They have a spectacular location, in a valley on the edge of the Namib Desert. With only eight rooms the lodge has an incredibly personal and welcoming feel. Although we didn’t get to stay here on our last trip in May 2016, we did stop in to have a look and were immediately struck by the calm, relaxed feel of the lodge.
The main areas of the lodge are colorfully decorated, with one long table around which communal ‘family style’ meals are taken each night. There’s a warming fire with plenty of comfy seats around for the colder nights. There is also a sun-deck raised up on rocky outcrop with an honesty bar – the perfect place to watch the sun-set.
The rooms themselves are decorated in a similar style. Five of these rooms are set up as double/twins, then there are two singles, and one family room which can sleep two adults and up to three children. The rooms are tastefully furnished with lots of little ornaments and decorations, giving them a rustic and homely feel. As well as the beds, you’ll find a small writing desk, and through a small courtyard, the private bathrooms with hot and cold running water, shower and flush toilet.
The main activity here is walking. They have three marked hiking trails, and a marked botanical trail which they give you an accompanying information booklet to explain what you’ll see along the way. You can also do nature drives if Torsten is at the farm – however they can’t be guaranteed. Other activities include bird-watching (they have a species list which they provide), and star-gazing at the beautiful clear skies.
Our view
Namtib Desert Lodge is a really great way to break the journey from Aus or Luderitz up to Sossusvlei. If time allows then we think two nights here would allow you to really take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy some of the peaceful walks in this little-visited area of the country.
Namibia expert
Geographics
- Location
- Southern Namibia, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- 1-2 nights to enjoy the walking on offer.
- Directions
- Namtib Desert Lodge is located on the D707, approximately 30km from its junction with the C13.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- Unfortunately we didn’t get a chance to sample the food on our last visit in May 2016, but we expect it to be homely and filling rather than gourmet. All meals are enjoyed communally, family style.
- Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome at Namtib Desert Lodge.
- Generally recommended for children
- The family room at Namtib make it a good option for families, but there aren’t specific activities geared towards children here.
- Notes
- There are a lot of rocks around so parents will need to keep an eye on children at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Namtib Desert Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Namtib Desert Lodge 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.
100% success
33% success
25% success
25% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Communications
- There is WiFi access here, for which they charge a nominal N$10 per person. This is less for the money, and more to make people think about whether they really need to be connected to the outside world! They donate all of this money to a charity at the end of the year.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- The nearest doctor is in Aus.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Fire safety
Activities
4WD Safari
Horse-riding
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry isn’t really possible here due to the limited facilities.
- Accepted payment on location
- The lodge accepts cash payments only in Rand and Namibian Dollars.
Other lodges in Southern Namibia
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Bagatelle Game Ranch
Bagatelle is a welcoming guest farm in the Kalahari. Visit as a stopover heading south or to enjoy the photogenic red dunes and varied wildlife.
Eningu Clayhouse
Scarcely an hour from Windhoek airport, Eningu is an artistic place to unwind amid the vast silence of the Kalahari.
Central Lodge
Central Lodge offers clean, fresh and comfortable accommodation surrounded by a well-kept garden in the centre of Keetmanshoop.
Kalahari Red Dunes
A good stop between Windhoek and Fish River Canyon, Kalahari Red Dunes is set around a dry lake on a private reserve, with excellent walking opportunities.
Kalahari Anib Lodge
Kalahari Anib Lodge is a comfortable stop between Windhoek and Fish River Canyon. Expect stunning Kalahari scenery, two swimming pools and lots of space.
Dabis Guest Farm
For good farm hospitality, wholesome cooking and an interesting farm drive, Dabis makes a great stop en-route from Lüderitz to the Sesriem area.
Kalahari Bush Breaks
Kalahari Bush Breaks, situated on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, is a perfect stop-over whilst driving between Namibia and Botswana.
Hotel Helmeringhausen
Hotel Helmeringhausen is a unique hotel in the heart of southern Namibia's farming district and makes a good stopover option.
Kanaan Desert Retreat
The tented Kanaan Desert Retreat offers a range of activities against the beautiful backdrop of the Namib Desert.
Otjimbondona
Otjimbondona Kalahari is a luxurious, peaceful and relaxing lodge conveniently located close to Windhoek's International Airport.
Kalahari Farmhouse
Kalahari Farmhouse, located in Stampriet has comfortable chalets in the gardens of an old farmhouse.
