Overview
Shooting stars are in abundance above the NamibRand Desert.
Perched atop a dune plateau with gorgeous views, Wolwedans’ Desert Lodge is the perfect way to experience the desert in all its majesty.
The lodge is constructed of wooden structures and canvas blinds that open out onto the spectacular desert. This gives it the feel of a tented camp, but with the protection and comfort of a building. The nine spacious chalets boast en-suite bathrooms and private verandahs. Leave your canvas blinds open overnight and it’s almost like sleeping directly beneath the stars.
In the main shared area, you’ll find two lounges, sundowner decks, two dining rooms, a fireplace, a tea deck, a library and a wine cellar. There’s also a swimming pool suspended above the sand which is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. All of the public areas have decks with wonderful desert views.
The commercial aim of Wolwedans has always been to ensure that the NamibRand Nature Reserve remains financially viable and that its future is assured. It joined The Long Run in 2011 and cemented its commitment to conservation, community, culture and commerce. Through these, it contributes to the biodiversity of the area and the people who call it home in a meaningful way.
Facts
At a glance
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Nine chalets and one family suite
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Swimming pool
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Wine cellar
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Library
Experiences
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![Wolwedans Dune Lodge 25]()
Scenic drives
Discover how the flora and fauna in this often habitat thrive on a fascinating scenic drive with your safari guide. They will point out oryx, gazelles, hartebeests, Hartmann and Burchell’s zebras, giraffes and springboks. Look out for predators like spotted and brown hyena, leopards, aarwolfs and bat eared foxes. The region is also great for keen birders, with some 170 bird species to be found, including endemic dune larks.
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![Wolwedans Dune Lodge 29]()
Hot air ballooning
There are few experiences quite as magical as floating silently over the ancient desert in a hot air balloon. The seasonal activity allows you to soar above the NamibRand Nature Reserve, getting a unique view of the dune belts and seemingly endless plains. Enjoy a Champagne breakfast at your landing spot.
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![Wolwedans Dune Lodge 31]()
Bushman walks
You’ll head out on an educational walk through the dunes with a Khoisan guide. They will tell you all about the ancient navigating and tracking techniques of Africa’s original hunter-gatherers. It’s also a great way to learn more about the micro flora and fauna of the region.
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![Wolwedans Dune Lodge 17]()
Village tours
Spend some time in the central Wolwedans hub where you’ll have the chance to meet some of the welders, carpenters and electricians who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep all the properties up and running. You’ll also learn about the water management system and the photovoltaic power installation. This is also where a lot of the fresh produce used in camp is grown.
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![Wolwedans Dune Lodge 28]()
Horse riding
Experiencing the red dunes on horseback makes for a memorable activity. Your first ride is included in your stay, but once the bug bites you can book further rides suited to your ability and interests.
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![Wolwedans Dune Lodge 24]()
E biking
E bikes can reach exhilarating speeds of up to 30km an hour as you race along dusty desert roads and up and down the dunes.
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![Wolwedans Dune Lodge 26]()
Wellness
Take the relaxation to deeper level with a Swedish massage, Indian head and foot massages or various marula oil treatments.
Community & Culture
Wolwedans is a Long Run Global Ecosphere Retreat® (GER), a stringent sustainability certification that focuses on conservation, community, culture and commerce. Wolwedans strives to see both their team and local communities enjoying improved livelihoods and being able to live sustainable lifestyles. With that in mind, they place great emphasis on human resource development, social upliftment, sharing economic opportunities and encouraging others. They showcase and promote the region’s culture by selling local arts and crafts in their curio shops, serving local dishes and having the menu read in local languages. The staff often share stories and songs with guests, offering them a glimpse into their culture. Wolwedans is also committed to preserving the archaeological and anthropological heritage of the region.
Conservation
As one of Southern Africa’s largest private, not for profit reserves, NamibRand Nature Reserve is effectively managed through monitoring and innovative and adaptive management practices. It has become a successful example of how biodiversity conservation can coexist with financial stability. Thanks to this effective management, the ecosystem is healthy and the flora and fauna is thriving alongside the people who live here.
Footprint
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
