Best hotels in Erongo

In the heart of an area of rich archaeological heritage, just where the unique desert landscape meets the foot of the spectacular Spitzkoppe Massif, is Spitzkoppen Lodge, a new addition to the Namibian lodge scene. Taking full advantage of the views over the granite boulders and scattered rocks that have dominated this desert landscape for 150 million years, the lodge is an alluring place of cultural and spiritual significance to the San. It's also as far away as you can get from the well-trodden tourist trails, and the perfect place for those seeking to enjoy the glorious mountain range and surrounding desert in all its uninterrupted vastness.

At first glance, much of Etusis' appeal appears to be its location - set squarely between the coastal town of Swakopmund and Namibia's capital city, Windhoek. But look a little closer and discover there's more to the story: stunning geological features within the Otjipatera Mountains, hiking and horseback riding and home-grown, farm-sourced meals - all great reasons to factor it into a Namibian itinerary. Expect very humble game viewing (mainly of antelope and bird species) but doing it atop a cantering steed through captivating scenery transforms it into a truly special experience. The lodge itself offers different kinds of accommodation, ranging from camping and self-catering options to private bungalows and a fully-kitted farmhouse.

North-east of Swakopmund, just 25 km north of the small town of Usakos, is a stone lodge hunkered at the base of the Erongo Mountains, the eroded relic of a volcano that was active some 140 to 150 million years ago. Hohenstein Lodge, named for the highest peak of the mountains, is also the closest lodge to the famous Spitzkoppe mountains – so it's worth stopping here for a few days to hike the slopes, view the rock paintings (some are 2000-plus years old), explore the flora and fauna of the wide camelthorn-studded plains and revel in the intense sunsets.

Near Omaruru, in the tranquil Erongo region of central Namibia, an 11 000-hectare private reserve has at its heart a secret retreat – a beautiful game lodge. Called Epako, meaning "the corner in a mountain range", the lodge (picture crisp clean lines and luxury comforts) nestles against a hillside overlooking the Omaruru River. Beside it, a waterhole attracts a goodly amount of game. The reserve itself is home to galleries of San paintings, vast geologically interesting rock formations, and some impressive wildlife and bird species. Immerse yourself in the warmth and wilderness – we recommend the experience.

Drive around 4 hours from Windhoek, across mountain passes as steep as they are enthralling, and you'll arrive at Ai Aiba Rock Painting Lodge. Sitting amongst giant boulders in the foothills of the Erongo Mountains, the curved thatched roofs and granite hues make the lodge appear almost invisible. Whilst cocooned at this desert oasis, you'll have the chance to explore the 130-million-year old volcanic ruins and the ancient San rock paintings that have made them so famous. Surrounded by 200,000 hectares of protected wilderness, you'll see new flora and fauna every day, from purple-pod terminalia to the tiniest dik-dik antelope.

Just 14 kilometres west of the small town of Omaruru you will find The Ondudu Safari Lodge, nestled amongst the rugged granite koppies (hills) of the lower Erongo Mountains. The lodge is the founding member of the 2,000 square kilometre Erongo Mountain Nature Conservancy, which brings together 30 private landowners in an effort to conserve this diverse Eden. These awe-inspiring mountains that are home to the lodge give you the impression that giants once played here, tossing the boulders across the landscape. At 1245 meters above sea level, they are a geological wonder, the ruin of a volcano formed over 130 million years ago.