Picture Wes Anderson directing a film in the Namib and you're halfway to understanding The Desert Grace. The 24 bungalows sit somewhere between Solitaire and Sesriem in the heart of Namibia's enormous Namib Desert, all blush-pink accents and mid-century charm. Built entirely from sandbags filled with Namib sand (yes, really), each room has its own plunge pool for desert-gazing, and there are two family tents if you're coming with the kids. Activities-wise, choose between dawn excursions to Sossusvlei's towering red dunes, morning and afternoon game drives, and a selection of walking safaris - or simply nurse a signature pink gin on your private terrace...
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From afar, the lodge melts into the dunes, but step inside and it's all dusky pinks, soft greys and retro elegance worthy of 1960s Palm Springs. Pink neon lettering declares 'One night in Namibia' above the bar, whilst the restaurant serves incredible buffets from build-your-own omelettes to homemade peanut butter ice cream. Marshall speakers and plenty of plush seating fills the lounge, and a central water feature with fire pit adds to the ambiance.
24 bungalows sit in splendid isolation, each positioned for both exceptional dune views and maximum privacy. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the landscape outside, whilst sandbag walls provide blissful sound insulation. Inside you'll find well-stocked minibars, USB radios, and generous en-suites with indoor and outdoor showers. The real star, however, is the private plunge pool on the veranda. There are also four family bungalows sleeping four, making the lodge surprisingly family-friendly, but perhaps better suited for older kids.
Sossusvlei's towering red dunes and Deadvlei's skeletal trees are the main draw - and pre-booking is essential for the half-day guided excursion. Closer to home, game drives reveal fossilised dunes and fairy circles, whilst self-guided walking trails span 3 to 7 kilometres across the sand. After dark, guided night walks are on offer too, and additional hot air balloon rides and e-bike excursions can be arranged during the day. But honestly, sometimes the best activity is lounging by your plunge pool, pink gin in hand, watching light shift across the dunes.
That complimentary pink fridge halfway along the access road, stocked with ice-cold drinks. It's totally unexpected and thoroughly Instagram-worthy.
Opt for the sunrise departure on the half-day Sossusvlei excursion. You'll beat the heat, catch the dunes at their most photogenic, and return in time for a leisurely brunch.
Whilst there's plenty to explore nearby, the lodge is a good hour from the Sesriem gate and the gravel access road requires careful navigation.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
11 nights from $7K per person
9 nights from $8.7K per person
6 nights from $7.1K per person
8 nights from $6.4K per person
The Desert Grace can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Namibia trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Namibia trips featuring The Desert Grace or get advice and suggestions from one of our Namibia specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at The Desert Grace start from around $340, or US$340, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
A photographer’s dream, the iconic red dunes are one of the most strikingly handsome sights on earth.
