Travel reviews by Mr D & Mrs M from UK
Review Distribution
Total number of trips
1
Countries visited
1
Lodges stayed in
12
Excursions taken
0
3 weeks in Namibia
Namibia between 15 Sep 2012 and 5 Oct 2012
As with the earlier comment regarding our choice of vehicle, we do have a further issue with information provided in the Bradt guide which states that Namibia is an inexpensive country to visit. We are not new to Southern Africa and have previously spent time in South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zambia and Botswana. We found Namibia to be easily the most expensive country in terms of accommodation, food, guided trips and souvenirs/artefacts. Again we mention this because of the connection between the author of the Bradt guide and Expert Africa."
Arranged By Sabina Hekandjo

Haus Sonneneck
"Overnight stay at Haus Sonneneck in Windhoek"

Central Lodge
"Overnight stay at Central Lodge, Keetmanshoop"
Most members of staff were friendly and welcoming and the owner/manager was involved and keen to have comments from us."

Canyon Lodge
"Two nights at Canyon Lodge"
Participation in an organised trip to the canyon cost N$580pp, which we felt to be outrageously expensive so we drove ourselves there instead.
The pool-with-a-view was a lovely place to relax"

Nest Hotel
"Nest Hotel in Luderitz"
We were told that Franzels restaurant in the town (recommended by Expert Africa) had closed 'some years ago'."

Dabis Guest Farm
"Dabis Guest Farm"
The farm drive was interesting, although we had been under the impression that the cost was included with the accommodation so were slightly surprised when charged N$130pp - not a huge amount and not a problem, maybe we had misunderstood the arrangement."

Sossusvlei Lodge
"Comfort under canvas at Sossusvlei Lodge"
The pool provided a view of animals at the waterhole from the comfort of a sun lounger - a perfect way to chill out.
The only negative was a delay in responding to what appeared to be a problem with a leaking gas bottle, but this was rectified at the second request."

Beach Lodge
"Luxury at Beach Lodge"
The restaurant provided good seafood at a reasonable price, although it was very busy and the service was slow. Breakfast was good and we enjoyed views of the ocean from our table."

Doro Nawas
"Damaraland - Doro Nawas"
The food and service were good and what at first sight seemed an over-regimented approach and pressure to partake in the bush drive (eg breakfast at - not from - 6:30) was not followed through. The staff were friendly and helpful and the nightly hot water bottle was very welcome to protect us from the desert chill. The staff choir was a highlight.
Organised trips were disappointingly and excessively expensive so (as at Canyon Lodge) we drove ourselves to the local points of interest."

Okaukuejo Camp
"Animals galore at Okaukuejo Camp"
The waterhole was wonderful, with adequate seating and a constant parade of animals visiting day and night.
Apart from the main road through the park, getting around was unexpectedly difficult with some routes in very poor condition and difficult to navigate in a 2WD car."

Halali Camp
"More animals at Halali Camp"
The waterhole was further from the camp and less busy than at Okaukeujo but we enjoyed visits from elephant, rhino and kudu.
The large swimming pool was a welcome place to cool off at the end of the day."

Okonjima Plains Camp
"Luxury at Okonjima Bush Camp"
This camp was a highlight of the trip for us and a wonderful way to round off our travels before returning to Windhoek. Our chalet was superb, with views of the bush and it's own mini waterhole plus bird feeder. A night visit to the hide was included and we were lucky enough to see the honey badger as well as a bunch of very stroppy porcupines!
A morning cheetah tracking expedition by truck and on foot gave us sight of no less than six cheetahs plus a leopard. Our only regret was that we were spending only one night here."

Haus Sonneneck
The room provided was large and comfortable with a pleasant outside seating area. Gisela gave us a friendly welcome as well as advice about local shops and restaurants, and about our onward journey."