Positioned amongst the sand dunes of the Skeleton Coast, this isolated lodge sits within a vast private concession.
It looks out towards the Atlantic Ocean, with the mouth of the Hoarusib River cutting through the sandy landscape to the north. Its uniquely designed chalets cling to this inhospitable landscape, legendary for its shipwrecks.
Despite its isolated location, the lodge can be accessed both by air and road. Self-drive vehicles must be left at the entrance to the national park, but the lodge offers a transfer service from here to the chalets. This means it is easily integrated into a self-drive holiday.
10 shipwreck-themed, wooden chalets dot the harsh terrain, with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the wind-sculpted beaches of the Skeleton Coast. Comfortably furnished and with en-suite facilities, the rugged chalets nestle in the undulating sand. Two of these are suitable for families, with space for extra beds. Totally off the grid, each of the chalets is solar powered, whilst a woodburning stove provides warmth during the cool evenings and mornings.
The shipwrecked theme continues in the lounge and restaurant area, which, unlike many lodges, is sealed from the elements. There is also a small deck in front of the lounge – perfect for when the wind dies and calmness descends briefly on this wild landscape.
The only lodge to actually sit on the Skeleton Coast itself, Shipwreck Lodge is about as remote as you can get in Namibia. It is two hours’ drive north of Mowe Bay, which can be accessed by 4×4 or light aircraft. It can also be combined with Hoanib Valley Camp and the full-day transfer between the through is one of the most spectacular drives in the region.
Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.
This comfortable tented camp sits in the Hoanib River Valley, in Namibia’s arid Kunene Region. Brilliantly located for exploring this fascinating and starkly beautiful landscape, the camp focuses on the desert-adapted wildlife that survives here.
Serra Cafema Camp is one of the most remote camps in all of southern Africa. Accessible only by air, it offers a truly memorable experience. The camp is situated under big shady Albida trees overlooking the Kunene River and comprises eight raised canvas and thatched chalets, each with its own en-suite bathroom. Other facilities include a small swimming pool, dining room and bar. Activities include exploring the sand dunes by Land Rover or quad bike and boating on the Kunene River where one can seek the Kunene crocodiles. Walking in the remote mountain and river valleys is also a highlight. In addition, Serra Cafema is often visited by the native Ovahimba families who live nearby, which provides an opportunity to learn about their lifestyle and traditions.
Desert Rhino Camp lies within private Palmwag Concession in northern Damaraland, a region highlighted for its remarkable tranquillity and minimalist beauty. There are eight canvas tented rooms on raised decks with walkways linking them to the main area, a classic-style canvas, shaded open-sided lounge and dining area that extends onto the magnificent landscape providing uninterrupted desert and mountain views. There is a library and curio corner, as well as a small swimming pool with sun loungers. The camp offers a brilliant insight into the ecology and conservation of Damaraland. At the same time, it contributes directly to the Save the Rhino Trust and ultimately the sustainability of this vulnerable area and its wildlife.
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is situated at the confluence of two tributaries of the Haonib River in the north-west of Namibia at the edge of the Skeleton Coast National Park and the Palmwag Game reserve. The camp is located in an arid wilderness where the hardy, desert-adapted wildlife come to have access to resident water sources.
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