Hoodia Desert Lodge

Named after a flowering cactus, Hoodia Desert Lodge is set in a stunning location at the foot of mountains overlooking the Tsauchab River, and backed by plains that seem to go on forever. The atmosphere of the lodge is calm and peaceful, and the added touches of luxury make this an excellent place to stay to explore this region of Namibia.

There are 11 well-spaced, tented bungalows are set below the towering mountains. Each has an en-suite bathroom, plus an open-air bath and shower, and a shaded veranda. Inside, windows on three sides of the bedroom admit plenty of light and afford superb scenic views from the bed. The décor is in warm shades of brown with brightly coloured curtains, while facilities include a tea- and coffee-making station, air conditioning, a minibar and a safe, as well as mosquito nets over the beds. All the bungalows face either the river or the plains and far mountains, perfect for watching the sunset.

There is a stylish lounge built under thatch that doubles as a reception area, and an outdoor swimming pool set in a raised deck and sculpted into natural rock. Down a few steps from the lounge is the spacious restaurant, with wooden chairs and tables arranged around a large central fireplace that's doubles as a braai in summer, and glass doors and windows allowing views of the surrounding mountains. The restaurant offers superb traditional and international cuisine accompanied by a wide selection of South African wines. The service is great and attentive staff are on hand to advise on the best wine to suit your meal. The outside terrace looks out over the Tsauchab River, and is a good spot for birdwatching – as well as for sundowners or drinks after dinner.

Hoodia Desert Lodge offers a range of activities, including hiking, excursions to Sossusvlei, sundowner drives and scenic drives, and the lodge can organise ballooning trips.