Backed by the towering Namib-Naukluft Mountains, Hoodia Desert Lodge overlooks the ephemeral Tsauchab River, with open gravel plains stretching into the distance as far as the eye can see. This comfortable oasis has just 11 thatch and canvas chalets, all decorated in a rustic and easy-going yet luxurious style. The design makes the most of the sense of space in this secluded part of the Namib Desert, and the lodge is a perfect base camp for exploring Sossusvlei's magnificent sand dunes. Expect a warm welcome, genuine hospitality and delicious food at this family-owned and -run establishment.
/15.966015458107,-24.5431999349638,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
The main lodge has a spacious thatched lounge and bar area, with polished terracotta floors scattered with comfortable couches, and eye-catching local art adding splashes of colour to the natural stone walls. An airy restaurant – its central fireplace doubling as a barbecue in summer – opens onto a raised wooden terrace overlooking the riverbed and surrounding desert. A short timber walkway leads to the swimming pool and sundeck sculpted into natural rock.
Eleven thatch and canvas twin-bedded chalets are strung out in a row below the main lodge, with plenty of space between each one ensuring privacy and fantastic views of the mountains or riverbed from the shaded deck. All have an en-suite bathroom, with indoor and outdoor showers and an open-air bath for a special experience. Decor is simple and features earthy tones, with crisp white linens, swathes of mosquito net and colourful scatter cushions adding a touch of understated luxury.
The lodge is an easy 22-kilometre drive to Sesriem, the gateway to Sossusvlei, with excursions into the surrounding dune fields being the most popular activity. Guided tours are offered, and picnic lunches can be requested if you prefer to head out and explore the desert at your own pace. The Namib-Naukluft Mountains offer some superb hiking opportunities. Nature drives, horse riding and guided walks can also be arranged, together with hot air ballooning and scenic helicopter flights.
The setting is absolutely unbeatable and the views...Out of this world!
Time it just right so you have a drink in hand as you watch the stark desert landscape morph from red and yellow to pink, mauve and grey with the sinking sun.
When visiting a pristine area like this, always follow the 'Leave No Trace' principles including not littering, avoiding the removal of any natural elements and listening to the rules when it comes to dune conservation.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
11 nights from $6.8K per person
9 nights from $8.5K per person
6 nights from $7K per person
8 nights from $6.3K per person
A photographer’s dream, the iconic red dunes are one of the most strikingly handsome sights on earth.
