Wolwedans
NamibRand, one of Southern Africa’s largest private nature reserves, originated as a
dream of extending the desert frontiers through the integration of a large number of former sheep farms. The aim was to develop a sanctuary free of fences, so that the wildlife could once again
roam their habitat unhindered.
Today NamibRand, which is located just south of Sossusvlei, is synonymous with some of Africa’s most breathtaking locations. The special attraction of the reserve is the diversity of desert
landscapes.
A quote by well-known travel writer Amy Schoemann sums it up: “Imagine the flamboyant magnificence of the Sossusvlei dunes, the mystique and subtle beauty of the Skeleton Coast and the legendary
red sands of the Kalahari synthesised into one multifaceted desert reserve and you have NamibRand, a privately owned conservation area of over 180.000 hectares. Add to it vast fields of
mysterious fairy circles, an intriguing history and a species-rich flora and fauna (including Namibia’s only true endemic, the Dune Lark) and you might have an inkling of what makes this reserve
so unusual”. Virtually all facets of the Namib Desert are represented here, creating a living tapestry of colours and shapes that make it a visual utopia for artists and photographers.
The main objective of NamibRand Nature Reserve is the conservation of this beautiful land on a self-sustainable basis. The lodges and camps on the NamibRand Nature Reserve are limited to 20 beds
each. The park is governed by a strict code of ethics and the number of guests this wilderness paradise can accommodate is restricted. Despite the tremendous potential for more tourist
development, it was decided that in theory every bed must be surrounded by 1000 hectares of nature - now and forever. This means that every guest at Wolwedans has one million square meters to
themselves - a sanctuary free of tour buses and overland trucks. This luxury of space makes the reserve the pristine destination it is today.
NamibRand invites true nature lovers to share its dream. Every visitor helps to sustain it by paying a fixed daily park-fee, which is channeled directly into the conservation of NamibRand Nature
Reserve.
Wolwedans Dunes Lodge
The Dunes Lodge is perched on top of a dune plateau, overlooking panoramic vistas in all directions and capturing the beauty of the desert in a most memorable way. Building style is a combination of wooden structures and canvas blinds, opening up to the desert beyond.
The lodge reflects the ambience of a tented camp, but provides the comfort and protection of a permanent building. Each of the nine spacious chalets with en-suite bathrooms sports a private
verandah, which connects you to vast stretches of untouched sand. Sleeping with your canvas blinds open is just like sleeping under the stars.
The main complex - which has completely been rebuilt during 2003 - consists of two lounges, a number of sundowner decks, a fireplace, a tea deck, a library, the wine cellar and two dining
rooms.
The lodge also has a swimming pool, which is suspended above the sand. All communal areas of the lodge open out onto decks with superb views.
The variety of recreational space makes a visit both exciting and relaxing.
Wolwedans Lodge Suite
With 200 square metres of deck rising above the dunes, the Mountain View Suite provides ample living space and adds a touch of luxury to the Wolwedans Collection.
The Suite is located within walking distance from the Dunes Lodge, yet it is secluded, allowing guests to spend time in a homely and stylish atmosphere.
Consisting of a spacious en-suite bedroom with a king-size bed, the Suite enables guests to enjoy the view of their private dune valley to the fullest.
A shaded patio provides an ideal venue for meals and relaxed hours lazing in a hammock. Add to this a spacious lounge, bar cabinet and dining area and you have a wonderful home away from
home.
In the event that guests wish to enjoy their meals ‘entre-nous’, an open-plan kitchenette supports the preparation of meals at the Suite. An east-facing veranda and sundeck lead from the platform
into the surrounding dunes. The main veranda has a ‘star-gazing’ bed, which provides a wonderful sleep-out venue during summer.
Keeping in line with the traditional Wolwedans style, the ambience is that of plain elegance embraced by a natural, comfortable charm.
Wolwedans Dune Camp
Positioned on the edge of a 250-metre high dune, the Dune Camp sleeps a maximum of 12 guests in a totally unspoilt setting. Guests stay in comfortable tents, which are pitched on wooden platforms.
A spacious deck, allowing for safe sleep-outs under the stars and a private bathroom make for a rather civilized camping experience.
The lapa is comprised of a lounge, dining area and an open-plan kitchen, which allows guests to chat to the chef while he prepares a sumptious dinner. The sundowner deck with its fireplace is the
central meeting point of the camp, making for a cosy and relaxed ambience.
Whilst the lodge aims at accommodating those guests in need of relaxed comfort and space, the camp provides a more down-to-earth experience. Its rustic but unique atmosphere courts the young and
more adventurous traveller.
The charm of the camp lies in its tranquil, intimate atmosphere, capturing the romance of a bygone era. Dune Camp requires a minimum stay of two nights and a day-safari with picnic lunch en-route
is part of the package.
Wolwedans Boulders Camp
Situated 45 kilometres south of Wolwedans and hugged by massive granite rocks, Boulders Camp is the latest addition to the Wolwedans Collection.
Sleeping a maximum of eight guests in four spacious tents, Boulders is undoubtedly the most exclusive camp at Wolwedans. The main area sports a dining and lounge tent, a breakfast deck and open
fire place. Close by is an awesome sundowner spot overlooking the vast beauty of the reserve.
From Boulders Camp you will explore the deep south of NamibRand Nature Reserve. Guided scenic drives, or two to three hour walking safaris treading along the ancient hunting grounds of the
bushmen, will happily fill your days.
Boulders calls for a two night stay and is ideally booked in combination with one or two nights at any of the other camps in the dunes, which makes for the ultimate desert
experience.
Rates
From Namibian Dollar (N$) 2'850 per person per night sharing (fully inclusive)

