Reviews of Sam's Giardino
Wildlife sightings and reviews
173 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Sam's Giardino and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
"Sam's Giardino review"
The tour of Sandwich Bay which you arranged for us was wonderful." See all these reviews: 12n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
We stayed two nights and had dinner at Sam's the first night. Although we arrived at 5:30 pm, Sam was able to accommodate us for dinner and to alter the menu for me (non-fish eater). The food was delicious. The second night we went to The Tug and really regretted our choice. The food isn't a patch on Sam's. The restaurant is crowded and I had staff and other customers constantly brushing the back of my chair, as we were seated beside the main thoroughfare through the restaurant. We left straight after the main course - couldn't leave fast enough, really.
We were surprised to see that it is possible to go on skiing excursions in the dunes around Swakopmund. As keen cross-country skiers, we would have loved to try this, but ran out of time. A good excuse to return?
As part of their trip, we organised some Kayaking at Pelican Point for these travellers. They commented:
We both thoroughly enjoyed our kayaking trip with Jeanne. My husband is keen on water sports and had kayaked previously, so was very much looking forward to the trip. As I have an aversion for water sports, I was more apprehensive. We had a double kayak. Kayaking around the lagoon itself was very calm and we also went out to sea to see the dolphins. The trip felt completely safe throughout and is an enjoyable experience even if you are not a water sports enthusiast.
Whilst on the trip we saw seal and dolphins, as well as lots of birds, including flamingos. Jeanne also took us to see a family of jackals living on the point. Jeanne provided lots of information about the local wildlife.
We arrived home to an email from Jeanne with photos of our trip. As all of our photos showed what we were seeing from our kayak, it was great to have some photos of the two us in the kayak, as well as some fantastic additional wildlife shots.
We both thoroughly enjoyed our morning kayaking with Jeanne." See all these reviews: 8n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
Sam is an attentive host who is enthusiastic about the quality he provides. Cuisine is superb but if you eat two nights running you may repeat some courses on the menu.
He could not be more helpful with information and even supplemented his superb breakfast with the offer of a sandwich for our journey.
Sea kayaking on Walvis Bay Lagoon: Jeanne was not around but the young man who stood in for her did a great job. He was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and provided a safe but interesting experience.
There is plenty of opportunity to get close to the seals and pelicans although it gets a bit crowded when the motor launches come in." See all these reviews: 18n in Namibia
"Sam's secret garden!"
The map could be a bit better . Normally north is at the top of the map! Rhode Allee should be shown - it appears on the detailed map but actually does not bend round into Anton Lubowski unless we were doing something stupid.
Great having free internet to catch up with the family after being out in the wilderness for a few days. Sam was helpful in booking restaurants and a boat trip.
We discovered one of the boat companies did free pick ups from Swakopmund Laramon - which gave us a day off the driving which was a good idea. However the minibuses were filled to capacity and the two last seats (the ones we had to take) were not particularly comfortable - one seat was partly broken and one was not a proper seat). The captain Dougie was excellent and we had a very enjoyable day out." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia
"Great dinner at Le Tug"
We arrived in a most impressive sandstorm but the next day was beautiful, and I very much enjoyed my last minute tour to Sandwich Bay although the time in the actual bay was very limited as the tide was against us." See all these reviews: 9n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
Sam was however happy to recommend and book a table at a local restaurant. Both places that he chose for us were excellent and relatively good value. We were able to walk into the centre of Swakopmund from Sam's in about 10 minutes. Breakfast was very good with freshly cooked egg and bacon, with a wide selection of cereals, fruits, breads, cheeses and cold meats, and the largest selection of jams, toppings and sauces that I have ever seen.
Sam provided advice on travelling, and on our last morning suggested that we make up a packed lunch from the breakfast tables - at no extra cost. Our only slight niggle was that Beethoven, Sam's St Bernard, was overly friendly to the guests. The rooms we had did not have a personal safe, although Sam did have them in a room downstairs ready to be installed. He was happy for us to use the house safe.
Whilst staying at Sam's these travellers went on a day trip along the coast, arranged by Expert Africa, and had the following comments:
A great day out. All went very well, and Ernest, our guide, was excellent.
Did not see as many birds as I had hoped, and in fact Sandwhich Harbour was somewhat devoid of life - a few pelicans, and jackals and some other small birds. Perhaps it was the wrong time of year.
The lunch in the sand dunes was great - the best lasagne I have tasted for a long time." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia; 2n in Zambia
"A little piece of Switzerland"
The room was light and comfortable with a newly decorated bathroom. The main building was a cosy warren of rooms including the dining area, TV room and computer room with tea and coffee always available and free internet access. The general atmospher was very relaxed and friendly.
We didn't take advantage of Sam's 5 course dinners but the breakfasts were good, particularly the home made muesli!" See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Wine tasting extraordinaire"
The first night we had dinner in the "cave" which was cosy and intimate. Dinner was delicious and service excellent. Very comfortable rooms overlooking the garden. Excellent breakfasts with vast array of cereals, preserves, bread etc. and fantastic cooked breakfast to start the day's activities. Beethoven was a hit with our party.
Excellent choice for a stay by the sea and so close to town." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
We did kayaking at Walvis Bay with Jeanne from 'Eco Marine Kayak Tours' of which a highlight was being so close to the dolphins and seals.
The next day, we did a trip to Sandwich harbour with our guide Ernst whose enthusiasm and knowledge made it a day to remember." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
The food & the atmosphere were very enjoyable" See all these reviews: 12n in Namibia
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Other lodges in Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Cornerstone Guesthouse
Cornerstone Guesthouse is a small friendly B&B in a peaceful residential area. It's just a short walk from Swkopmund's waterfront & amenities.
Strand Hotel
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The Stiltz
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Villa Margherita
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Beach Lodge
Right on the sea front, Beach Lodge offers good standard accommodation and its own restaurant, 15 minutes’ drive from Swakopmund.
Lagoon Lodge
Lagoon Lodge is a quirky little guesthouse located right on the edge of Walvis Bay Lagoon, a good spot for watching the flamingoes that frequent the area.
The Delight
Colourful and contemporary in style, The Delight is a relatively large hotel within a short walk of Swakopmund's waterfront, restaurants and main attractions.
Swakopmund G'house
Swakopmund Guesthouse is a family-run B&B, boasting comfortable and high-quality rooms with a maritime touch.
Brigadoon
In a quiet residential location, Brigadoon is conveniently located for the Swakopmund waterfront and amenities.
Hansa Hotel
With a very central location in Swakopmund, the traditional Hansa Hotel is reliably good, though it is quite formal.
Secret Garden
Secret Garden Guesthouse is well located in the centre of Swakopmund not far from the sea. With a seaside feel, it has its own small restaurant and bar.
Sea Breeze
Just north of Swakopmund, the delightful Sea Breeze Guesthouse is bright and well-looked after with welcoming and helpful owners.
Organic Square
Organic Square is a modern guesthouse across two properties in the centre of Swakopmund.
Cornerstone Apartments
Cornerstone Guesthouse’s three self-catering apartments, each in its own unique location, work well for families or groups of travellers seeking space & privacy within a comfortable, contemporary setting.
Desert Breeze
Not your typical Swakopmund guesthouse, Desert Breeze occupies a glorious location overlooking the Swakop River and the desert beyond.
Pelican Point Lodge
Pelican Point Lodge sits on a remote peninsula offering panoramic views of the ocean and is only accessible by 4WD or boat.
Namib Guesthouse
The Namib Guesthouse is a small, modern B&B, set in Swakopmund's peaceful Kramersdorf area. It's just a short walk from the coast and many amenities.
Oyster Box Guesthouse
Oyster Box Guesthouse is a small, modern and comfortable B&B, overlooking Walvis Bay Lagoon.
Pearls Beach Pods
With a beachfront location, superb sea views and easy access to the amenities of Swakopmund, The Pearls Beach Pods combine privacy with a high standard of luxury.
