Kulala Desert Lodge, Sossusvlei

Location

Situated within the arid Namib Desert on the 27,000-hectare private Kulala Wilderness Reserve, Kulala Desert Lodge offers unrivalled access to the red dunes of Sossuvlei and spectacular views over the Namib-Naukluft dune sea to the mountains to the east. The lodge is easily accessed via self-drive or fly-in from Windhoek Airport.

Accommodation

The camp's main buildings take on a distinct North-African feel and are constructed entirely from clay bricks with a wrap-around verandah. The lodge offers 23 thatched and double canvas ‘kulalas’ (chalets), each with en suite bathrooms and private verandahs, set above the desert floor on raised wooden platforms to make the most of the breeze. You'll find these in double and twin configurations along with three family units. Guests also have the opportunity to sleep out under the starry skies of the Namib and be lulled to sleep by the sounds of Africa on a sleep-out on the flat rooftop of their own room.

Dining

Dining can be enjoyed both indoor and outdoor, with a breakfast buffet offering freshly baked breads, cold meats and cheeses. Cereals and cooked breakfasts can be made to order. For guests who have left the lodge early to visit the Sossusvlei dunes, brunch will be served under a camelthorn tree surrounded by the desert. Lunch is usually a two-course set menu, while dinner is served outdoors on the verandah or in the main dining area on colder evenings.

Facilities

Days are spent exploring the reserve by foot, quad bike, hot air balloon or safari vehicle, before returning to the lodge to enjoy its facilities that include a lounge, bar and dining area, a plunge pool and a wrap-around verandah overlooking the dry riverbed.