There are destinations that are very close to our hearts but have not yet been included in our Smart Travelling repertoire in the form of a guide. Nevertheless, we don’t want to withhold these gems of a destination from you, so in this article we take you on a very special journey to a very special destination: Namibia.
For us, this corner of the world is pure fascination. A stay in Namibia is a real treat for the soul and a visual feast – especially during the golden hour of the day. The country is blessed with many wilderness areas where the hand of man is barely noticeable. Namibia is larger than the state of Texas and is one of the least populated countries in the world today. But that does not mean that this country is empty. Golden dunes roll into the Atlantic Ocean, wildlife roams the white salt pans of Etosha National Park, while Deadvlei surprises with its stark colour contrasts and the sunsets of Swakopmund and the epic Skeleton Coast will stay with you forever. Apart from these unique natural spectacles, Namibia also has all kinds of magical hotels and camps. Here you can look out for the Big Five, marvel at the starry sky and in one place or another, giraffes keep you company at lunch and elephants take over the wake-up call in the morning. One thing is for sure, when travelling through Namibia you switch off from everyday life and immerse yourself in an unforgettable spectacle of nature and wildlife.
We reveal our favourite places that are suitable for a 14-day round trip. The starting point is Windhoek and we recommend January as the perfect time to travel – don’t be put off by the start of the off-season (rainy season).
Omaanda Zannier, recommended for two nights
It takes about 45 minutes to get from Windhoek Airport to Omaanda Zannier – a stylish, luxurious getaway run by the French Zannier Hotel Group. Hotel group always sounds big, but the only thing that’s big here is the reserve, and that’s a good thing. On around 9,000 hectares on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, there are cheetahs, lions, elephants and rhinos to discover – and ten “thatched roof huts”. To be more precise, these are architecturally sophisticated, stylish huts with linen bed linen, Le Labo products and a fantastic view of the African savannah. At Omaanda, guests are spoilt with culinary delights morning, noon and night and can book a game drive at sunrise or sunset as they wish. This place offers a unique fusion of wellness, relaxation and nature and game viewing. It is particularly atmospheric in the evening when you gather around a crackling fire, the traditional “boma”, with a glittering starry sky above you. Pure romance! All this comes at a price, but those who value a stylish and sustainably built ambience will not be disappointed here.
Omaanda Zannier
Farm n° 78, Rest of Ondekaremba Farm, Windhoek East
+263 81145 5361
www.zannierhotels.com/omaanda/en/
Alternative: Naankuse Lodge, recommended for two nights
In the same reserve as Omaanda Zanier, Naankse Lodge is a slightly more affordable alternative and only a stone’s throw away from Windhoek. A good starting point to begin or end a Namibia trip. The lodge is owned by the Naankuse Foundation, which supports and protects indigenous people and wildlife in Namibia. One hundred per cent of the lodge’s profits go directly to the foundation and various charitable projects. The lodge also has celebrity sponsors, Angelina Jolie to be precise. During activities such as horse riding and beautiful walks, you may well be surprised by herds of antelope or zebra. The style is rustic African, the entire lodge is based on ecological materials and yet you don’t have to compromise on comfort.
Naankuse Lodge
Ondekaremba, Windhoek East
+264 61 22 88 69
Onguma Fort, recommended for two to three nights
Onguma Fort is definitely unrivalled and unique in Namibia. It was built in exactly the right place to present its guests with probably the most impressive sunset in the whole of Namibia – with a view of the beautiful barrenness of the Etosha National Park, wild animals and camel thorn trees. But it’s not just the location that is special, the people and the team also exude a “home away from home” atmosphere from the very first moment. Speaking of atmosphere, 1001 Nights Oasis would probably be the most appropriate description, as a unique combination of African, Moroccan and Indian architecture awaits you here. Dinners on the terrace are also a highlight. From here you have the perfect view of the nearby waterhole, where the local lions and elephants like to pass by. If you want to treat yourself, Onguma Fort is the place to be. There is no shortage of activities, whether organised bush walks, tours through Etosha or private bush dinners under the stars – the team tries to make every wish possible.
Onguma The Fort
Onguma Game Reserve Etosha National Park, Tsumeb
+264 61 237 055
www.onguma.com
Alternative: Onguma Forest, recommended for two to three nights
A slightly less luxurious but equally recommendable address is the little sister of Onguma Fort, Onguma Forest. On the border of Etosha National Park, hidden in the forest along the dry riverbed, you will find this cosy and charming bush camp with a touch of the safari style of days gone by. From the associated viewing platform you have a fantastic view of a large and active waterhole. We particularly recommend the sundowner drives to Fisher’s Pan and Rhino Research Drives, where you can follow in the footsteps of the endangered white and black rhino and gain in-depth insights into animal conservation measures and research. Birding is also possible here and is particularly recommended in the summer months, as this is when most bird species can be observed.
Onguma Forest
Onguma Game Reserve Etosha National Park, Tsumeb
+264 61 237 055
www.onguma.com/de/onguma-forest-camp-ger/
Kambaku Safari Lodge, recommended for two nights
Thatched lodges, natural colours and a camp that blends magically into the landscape at the foot of the Waterberg Plateau. Kambaku has ten rooms, all of which are stylishly on point with impressive views of the bush savannah. But above all, Kambaku is known for its riding safaris. With 30 horses in the stables, guests can explore the beautiful area in the saddle. Both experienced riders and beginners are welcome here. Many riders are amazed at how close you can get to wild animals in the saddle. In the haze of the horses, their stature and their odour, they are less aware of humans and do not sense any danger. It is impressive to ride through a herd of impala, to see wildebeest close enough to touch, or when good-humoured zebras are nearby and accompany the riders for a while – an unforgettable adventure. Apart from this, the lodge is also a culinary highlight. Vegetables and salads come from the lodge’s own garden, the bread is home-baked and the meat comes from the reserve’s healthy game.
Kambaku Safari Lodge
Otjiwarongo
+264 67306292
Habitas Namibia, recommended for two to three nights
Anyone staying at Habitas can look forward to a very special experience. On the one hand, it is a classic safari lodge, but at the same time, the lodge offers much more than gamedrives with giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs and zebras. Habitas wants to make it easier for its guests to escape from everyday life. The activities are designed to make guests feel connected to nature and to themselves. They can listen to the stories of the local people, learn about the healing power of plants, completely relax in the spa with local treatments or take part in yoga, sound meditation, breathing therapy and Namibian waltz dancing with a view of the savannah. Indigenous arts and crafts workshops are also on offer. In short, there is a certain spiritual and cultural spirit buzzing around Habitas Lodg in a very pleasant, informal and at the same time cool and luxurious way. Accommodation is in beautiful tented suites with private bathrooms and a spacious veranda.
Habitas Namibia
Farm Coas 501, Windhoek District
+264 81 127 3555
Stopover in Swakopmund
Namibia is not only known for its deserts, but also for its unrivalled dunes. The best starting point for this is Swakopmund, the capital of the Erongo region. It is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean, around 360 kilometres from Windhoek. We recommend planning one or two nights here and definitely taking a dune tour by jeep. The Swakopmund Sands Hotel organises these – also for non-hotel guests. The crew will take you to Sandwich Harbour in the Namib Naukluf Park, a small lagoon southwest of Walvis Bay. This is where dune and sea meet to form this landmark. There are flamingos to see, the famous salt pans and you climb the Big Daddy dunes. For lunch and dinner, we recommend stopping at The Tug or Ocean Cellar. Both restaurants have a beautiful view of the water and of course serve all kinds of seafood specialities. And then there’s Peter’s Antique Store – the legendary second-hand boutique has been around since 1983 and is an absolute institution in Swakopmund. Even if you don’t have a soft spot for antiques, you should take a look here – a real cabinet of curiosities and impressive insights into the history of Namibia await you.
Swakopmund Sands Hotel
3 Strand Street, Swakopmund
www.strandhotelswakopmund.com
The Tug
A. Schad Promenade, Molen Road Jetty Area, Swakopmund
Peter’s Antique Store
24 Tobias Hainyeko Street, Swakopmund
Wolwedans, recommended for two nights Wolwedans is the crème de la crème of the lodges we have experienced so far. But there is much more to it than “just” a lodge. When Albi Brückner and his son Stephan started out in 1995 with four igloo tents, they had no idea where the journey would take them. Today, still under Stephan’s management, Wolwedans is not only a magical, luxurious oasis far away from everyday life, but also an active foundation and Desert Academy. Behind all this is a forward-looking, holistic and sometimes radical vision, the “AridEden Project”. They want to make a significant contribution to the conservation of the NamibRand, the development of Namibia and the establishment of a desert-based economy. People, Planet, Profit – and therefore sustainability – is at the heart of Wolwedans’ DNA. Wolwedans is a perfect place for nature lovers and individualists looking for a unique experience off the beaten track. The lodge is situated on the ridge of a plateau in the heart of the NamibRandes Reserve. From here you can see the natural panorama in all directions and gain an unforgettable impression of the desert. Be sure to take a look at the Base Camp, which includes a carpentry workshop, saddlery, welding shop, garage with petrol station and much more. It is fascinating what has been created here. All horse lovers should not miss out on a ride into the desert. All in all, a stay here definitely has its price, but at the same time creates magical memories for eternity.
Wolwedans www.wolwedans.com
Alternative: WE Kebi, recommended for two nights
The WE Kebi is an all-round relaxed farm with a good price-performance ratio and a good balance of comfort, cosiness but not excessive luxury. You could describe the vibe as casual. The lovingly decorated lodge is the gateway to the Namib Desert and its spectacular dune landscape. The owners’ aim was to build a lodge that blends in as well as possible with its surroundings. And they have succeeded. During the day you can relax by the pool and in the evening you are spoilt with a very good dinner. The stars of the lodge are definitely the two tame zebras that like to mingle with the guests and the wildebeest, rhinos and onyx that occasionally drop by to drink on the terrace.
WE KEBI
Sesriem Canyon, C19 Gravel Road
Guesthouse Voigtland, recommended for one or two nights
The Guesthouse Voigtland is a little gem from the German owners Gaby and Stephan. It is only a stone’s throw away from Windhoek Airport, making it a great place to stay at the beginning or end of a trip. Whether at the beginning or at the end, it is definitely a highlight. The hosts are not only incredibly warm and endeavour to look after their guests, the beautifully decorated farm also exudes an absolute feel-good atmosphere. Everything is very personalised and there are just four rooms, nestled in a beautiful garden. Booking well in advance is highly recommended. The absolute highlight are the cute giraffes, which you can feed up close on the terrace with camel thorn fruit for breakfast or high tea. But the in-house meals are also great, most of the food comes from their own farm and it’s fun to swap stories about the day’s experiences with the other guests.
Guesthouse Voigtland
Voigtland, Windhoek
www.voigt-land.com