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
"Simultaneously homely and luxurious"
We went to Bird Paradise just outside Walvis Bay where, unfortunately, the guide was on holiday but we still managed to see lots of birds. Strongly recommended.
We were given tea in the garden when we returned to base but had not expected to be charged for it. Not a big issue but we were a little surprised.
Lovely big room, luxurious bathroom and even a TV so that my husband could catch up with he Rugby World Cup." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
During their stay at Sam's, Expert Africa organised a Pelican Point Kayaking trip for these travellers. They commented:
Great activity to participate!" See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia
"Great hospitality"
During their stay at Sam's, Expert Africa organised two activities for these travellers. Firstly, we organised a Pelican Point Kayaking trip. They commented:
Utterly delightful. A thoroughly enjoyable morning. Jeanne has this expedition organised to perfection and is a brilliant host and guide. Kayaking amongst the seals and flamingos is charming (and surprisingly comfortable and warm) and the environment around the lagoon is stunning.
These travellers also did the Day Trip to Sandwich Harbour, and commented:
Environment and adventure.
A fabulous day exploring the remote and inaccessible coastal environment south of Swakopmund. Berger was a great guide and fortunately, given the nature of the route, a great driver too!" See all these reviews: 10n in Namibia
"Disappointing"
When our travellers visited Sam’s Giardino it was towards the back end of the winter period (which generally lasts until the end of August). Sam has confirmed that they have two gas heaters in the restaurant that can be wheeled around to warm up the restaurant, creating a cosy atmosphere.
Sam’s Giardino is a small owner run guesthouse and Sam is a very hands-on owner. Sam always makes a point to stop by each table to chat to his guests and also give them a chance to ask him any questions. We are just sorry to hear that this approach did not quite work for these guests. Sam has lived in Namibia for the last 15 years and he is very knowledgeable about life in Namibia. We know that client relations are very important to him and we have every faith that Sam will endeavor to meet expectations in future.
"Africa Specialist | Namibia"
"A very quirky and charming place"
Our host Sam was very charming, welcoming and interesting. We had a meal at the accommodation one evening, which was excellent and accompanied by delicious wine chosen by Sam.
Sam also arranged a Sandwich Harbour tour with Bruno Nebe of Turnstone tours which was really enjoyable. Bruno was very good company and a really interesting chap who gave us a good insight on various aspects of life in Namibia.
We would certainly recommend this accommodation." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
"Sam's Giardino"
Did not do any activities here as needed a rest after driving down the salt road along the Skeleton Coast. A another day here would had been good to do some of the local trips." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
I didn't find him the most welcoming of people, but he did his job. The trip with Turnstone Tours wasn't quite as good as expected. That may be in part because it was very windy that day." See all these reviews: 21n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
The restaurant at the Hansa Hotel was very good and much better than the very touristy Tug." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Sam takes great care of his guests"
The room was comfortable, although due to the coastal location it felt a bit damp by comparison with our previous desert lodge. The food was excellent, both breakfast and dinner, and we wished we had dinner in the lodge on both nights of our stay, as on the first evening our restaurant outing was not very enjoyable.
The dinner at Sam's was much tastier, served in a pleasant, cosy setting." See all these reviews: 14n 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 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
One of the larger hotels in Swakopmund, the Strand is well-placed on the seafront with good access to restaurants and the centre of town.
The Stiltz
Not your typical guesthouse, The Stiltz occupies a glorious location over the Swakop River on the edge of Swakopmund.
Villa Margherita
Villa Margherita is a beautifully renovated B&B in the heart of Swakopmund, with comfortable, well-appointed rooms, and friendly and attentive staff.
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 Guesthouse
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.
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.
Swakopmund Sands
The relatively substantial Swakopmund Sands Hotel lies in a quiet area of the town, close to the beach yet within walking distance of tourist amenities.
