Waterberg Wilderness Lodge

Red sandstone paths snake through the mature garden, connecting the lodge and the chalets. In the main area are two pavilions where delicious Namibian farm cuisine is served and you can while away the hot afternoon. There's plenty of seating to take in the 270-degree views and the vast, star-studded night sky. Outside, a large stone terrace with several tables and umbrellas is used for alfresco dining. Two swimming pools, filled from a local spring, help you keep cool.

Each of the 12 chalets (eight doubles and four for families) has its own stone patio that opens to the tree-shaded garden. Indoors, large windows provide loads of natural light and simple furnishings keep the space open and airy. The net-draped beds are comfortable, with good-quality linen and pillows (always important), and en-suite bathrooms. Solar power is used throughout, so there's hot water for the shower, and plugs for hairdryers, battery chargers, etc. Your comfort is assured.

There's plenty to do in the Waterberg. Well-marked hikes from the lodge are ideal for self-exploration – a rare opportunity on safari. Hiking to the top of the plateau is well worth the effort (do have a dip in one of the natural pools at the top). The excellent guides will identify plants, spot animals and many birds, and walk you back through history to the site of a Herero/German skirmish in 1904. Enjoy game drives, rhino tracking and stargazing.