Review of Wolwedans Desert Lodge, NamibRand Reserve, Namibia
Recreational experience in desert landscape, newly decorated tents & fine food:
We two families (each with a teen) chose the Wolwedans Desert Lodge as a “grand finale” for our excellent Botswana, Namibia and Victoria Fly-in safari. This was already the second time we stayed at this stunningly located lodge in the midst of a private reserve. And again we opted for Ultimate Safaris (it now goes under the name of ulimate.earth) as our travel provider. Once more, our guide was Tristan Cowley, co-founder and managing director of this fabulous company. After a magnificient safari, which included the Big 5, cheetah, wild dog and sitatunga, Wolwedans was the ideal place for unwinding. Again, it was an unparalleled recreational experience. This desert landscape with all the different colors is really something special!
The public spaces (two lounges, a bar, a library and two dining rooms) are beautifully decorated and have a peaceful feel. There is also an adequately sized pool with a relaxing sun deck.
In terms of culinary delights, Wolwedans impressed with a very good food quality. When staying here, you are on half board. This includes a good breakfast, a delicious lunch, delicate cakes in the afternoon and a sumptuous dinner. Both times, the staff was attentive, courteous and eager to please.
As we had our own guide, I cannot comment on the activities offered by the lodge. Things to do include nature drives and walks. But do not expect spectacular game viewing because Wolwedans is more about recreation than action. For me it is the ideal final point after an eventful safari trip.
To conclude, Wolwedans is perfect for a (relaxing) stay in a wonderful landscape. And it comes with the benefit of nice rooms and fine food. The only (minor) negative aspect for me is the fact that the rooms are not connected to the main complex (restaurant etc.). So you have to “wade” through (small) sand dunes to reach it. I am aware of the fact that this layout is due to fire restrictions. Yet I think there would have been more comfortable solutions.
Date of stay: October 2010
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