Description
Built at the foot of a mountain facing west, the property benefits from spectacular sunset views. The camp comprises 15 thatch and canvas chalets each built on a wooden platform to provide maximum airflow. For outdoor enthusiasts, mattresses can be placed on a star gazing platform on top of each room so that guests can sleep under the stars and enjoy the gentle desert breezes.
The main lodge, with decor inspired by North Africa, has a fantastic wrap-around verandah that overlooks the waterhole allowing spectacular views of wildlife and the surrounding desert. There is also a refreshing swimming pool for guests to relax in during the heat of the day.
The overall setting is a true delight to the senses, bringing together the rhythm of Namibia, wholesome meals and intimacy. A waterhole in front of camp attracts a number of local wildlife (such as gemsbok, springbok, ostrich and jackal) and provides a perfect location to view and photograph the desert scenery.
Activities at Kulala Desert Lodge revolve around early morning guided nature drives to the spectacular dunes of Sossusvlei through the private gate on the Tsauchab River. World-famous Sossusvlei is an enormous clay pan, flanked by the famous sand dunes that stand out starkly against the blue sky and flush red in the early morning sun. These dunes have developed over millions of years, the wind continuously transforming the contours of this red sand sea. The 'vlei' itself only fills after rare, heavy rainfalls when, in a complete turn-around, it becomes a spectacular turquoise lake.
Guide price
£1,195
per person
£1,195 Per person for 4 nights, based on 2 people sharing a chalet, on a fully inclusive basis, including flights from Windhoek, with activities as specified.
Accommodation
Accommodation at Kulala Desert Lodge comprises 19 thatched and canvas "kulalas" ("to sleep" in Oshiwambo) with en-suite bathrooms and verandas. Each unit is built on a wooden platform to catch the cooling breezes and has a deck on the flat rooftop where bedrolls are placed for guests to sleep under the myriad stars that Namibia's clear skies portray.
Childcare
There are no special child care facilities but children are welcome and the lodge has a family room.
Facilities
Kulala Desert Lodge has a main area with décor inspired by northern Africa, as well as a lounge, bar, dining area, plunge pool, and wrap-around veranda overlooking the waterhole - a perfect location to view and photograph the desert vista.
Activities
Activities at Kulala Desert Lodge revolve around early morning guided nature drives to the spectacular dunes of Sossusvlei through the private gate on the Tsauchab River. Nature drives, walks and eco-sensitive, guided quad-biking are also offered through the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve to take in those incredible views and to catch a glimpse of the denizens of the desert.
Another option, at an extra cost, is early morning ballooning, beginning at first light. The balloon safari offers a truly unique experience to soar silently above the magnificent sand dunes and desert, with a champagne breakfast being served at your landing site.
When to travel
If you're visiting Sossusvlei, the best thing to do is avoid the summer, which is extremely hot. Therefore, the best time to visit southern Namibia is in winter (May and September) but bear in mind that the desert regions can be bitterly cold at this time of year. The climate of the southern coast is hospitable from February to May, but quite cool and misty year-round, and particularly windy in August.
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Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Sossusvlei, Namibia
Sossusvlei, Namibia
How to get there
10hr international flight, 1hr by light aircraft