Wolwedans Dunes Lodge

Nestled amidst the dunes in the heart of NamibRand Nature Reserve, and set against a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, Wolwedans provides the perfect base from which to explore vast stretches of awe-inspiring nature. Wolwedans Dunes Lodge is located in south western Namibia, in the heart of the NamibRand Nature Reserve and on the doorstep of Sossusvlei. The camp is situated on the top of a vegetated dune belt offering fantastic vistas and panoramas. Fly-In, Safari Lodge, Desert, Wildlife, Game Drives, Safari, Ballooning, Walking /Hiking, Honeymoon, Photography, Birding The Namib Rand Nature Reserve originated as a dream of extending the desert frontiers by integrating a large number of former sheep farms and developing a sanctuary free of fences, so that once again the wildlife could roam their habitat unhindered. Inviting nature lovers from all over the world to share in this dream has always been one of our objectives, and today NamibRand is synonymous with some of Namibia's - if not Africa's - most breathtaking locations.

Covering an area of some 200.000 hectares close to Sossusvlei, NamibRand is bordered by the Naukluft Park in the west and the impressive Nubib Mountain range in the East. The special attraction of the reserve is the diversity of desert landscapes. Virtually all facets of the Namib are represented here. Mountains plunging down into endless grassy plains, which are interspersed by red vegetated dunes, create a living tapestry of colours and shapes that make it a visual utopia for artists and photographers.

Game species found in the reserve include gemsbok, mountain and plains zebra, springbok, red hartebeest, bat-eared fox, spotted hyena, Cape fox and African wildcats. The more rocky areas are inhabited by kudu, klipspringer, baboon and leopard, while the dunes harbour a rich and diverse micro-fauna. Over a hundred species of birds have been recorded. Once the hunting ground of the Spotted Hyena, Wolwedans takes its name from the African for 'where the wolves dance'. The very word conjures up an aura of mystery and romance which, when visiting Wolwedans, nature and the rhythm of the desert will evoke within you. Across this diverse canvas of contrasting landscapes traverse an exciting variety of large and small desert creatures - as wild and ancient as their habitat.

Our portfolio of camps provides ample opportunity to meet our guests' different expectations and preferred levels of comfort - be it the rustic Dune Camp, the more elaborate Dunes Lodge or the Wolwedans Private Camp. No matter where you opt to stay, warmth and personalised service - embraced by a commitment to care for guest and nature alike - are our hallmarks. It is here, in this land of stretching blue skies, endless plains and countless creatures enacting nature's savagely exciting passion play, that you will find beauty feeding your soul, tranquillity to clear your mind and space for your imagination to fly.

Visit once, and you will long to return - that is a promise. The Dunes Lodge aims at providing a unique experience close to nature, yet without compromising comfort and style. The entire lodge is constructed on wooden platforms and overlooks panoramic vistas in all directions, capturing the desert in an intimate and memorable way. The building style is a combination of wooden poles and large canvas blinds/windows that open 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 eight spacious Chalets with en-suite bathrooms leads onto a private verandah and stretches of untouched sand. Careful selection of furniture, light coloured linen as well as the selection of accessories give the Dunes Lodge a distinct natural charm. The main complex - also built on stilts - consists of a bar and lounge, sundowner decks with a fireplace and a spacious dining room. All communal areas open out onto a verandah with a superb view of the surroundings. Five Chalets are directly accessible from the main complex by wooden walkways, also easily accessible for elderly and handicapped guests.

No matter where you stay at Wolwedans, we will introduce you to this great theatre of nature and kindle ancient stirrings within you. Accompanied by experienced guides, visitors are introduced to the many facets of NamibRand Nature Reserve's desert habitat with its diverse fauna and flora - on foot, by car, or from the air in a hot-air balloon.

Our interpretive scenic drives in open Landrovers or the walks with resident field-guides, reveal the wonders of the desert - as do picnics in the wild, sundowners on the dunes and dinners by candlelight. The traditional programme - providing you stay for two nights - which is earnestly recommended (if possible you should stay for three) - would entail an afternoon drive on the day of arrival, followed by a full day-safari. The lodge also lends itself to relaxing for an afternoon - the choice is entirely yours. Children over 12 welcome.