Where to stay in Namibia

If you are travelling on more of a budget there are some good government owned rest-camps in the most popular national park locations. These lodges are of a good standard and often feature that all-important swimming pool. Many have family chalets with a balcony or barbeque/braai area. Communal areas often include an outdoor bar and elevated terrace or walkway for enhanced wildlife viewing.

Alternatively you can choose to camp, either in regular tents (which can be hired locally, together with camping equipment) or in a camper van. There are numerous camps sites dotted around Namibia again usually in very picturesque locations, offering pitches for both tents and camper vans.

These fill up quickly during the school holidays and must be pre-booked, but they offer a great chance for an African adventure… cue lots of star gazing at night and enjoying family barbeques at the camp braii.

What is a typical Namibian lodge like?

One of our favourite places to stay in Namibia is the Okonjima Plains Camp. This provides wonderful child-friendly accommodation. Family units have views overlooking the grass plains, there are two large pools surrounded by lush lawns and a fantastic outdoor dining area or ‘Lapa’ meaning ‘gathering place’.

During your stay you can enjoy guided game drives to spot leopard, follow the Bushman Trail where you will learn about the San way of life, visit the Cheetah Project and, possibly the most exciting activity of all, track cheetah, wild dog and spotted hyenas, on foot. Definitely a walk with a difference! One house rule that parents may appreciate is that no Ipods, Ipads, tablets or electronic gaming devices are allowed during excursions here…

Another favourite is the Elegant Farmstead near Okahandja, just over 1.5 hour’s drive from the airport. This is a useful last or first stop if you wish to avoid the capital. Tucked away in a beautiful garden with lush plants and trees that backs onto the African bush, the Elegant Farmstead is a traditional farmhouse offering stylish accommodation. This includes a family unit, triple rooms (all en suite), a fabulous pool and outside dining. The estate itself is home to a large variety of wildlife and plenty of birds. Perhaps take an afternoon hike along some of the trails that follow the dried riverbeds and keep your eyes peeled for warthog, ostrich and jackals.

What is a typical campsite in Namibia like?

Namibia is quite unique in Africa in that it is perfectly normal to turn up at the airport, collect your vehicle (complete with maps and GPS) and head off to camp. Depending on budget and preferences you can either hire tents and camping equipment or you can hire a 4WD with pop-up tents on the roof. Either way you stay in campsites that have good shared bathroom facilities, barbeque areas and often access to the facilities of an attached lodge.

A typical campsite is Etosha Village, nestled in shady forest just 2km from the Okaukuejo Gate to the park. It provides power outlets, running water and excellent bathroom facilities. There is also a lovely barbeque area where you can sit around and enjoy the scenery and wildlife without the confinements of a more formal dining area. Perfect for families with lively children! There are several swimming pools (including two children’s pools), a bar area with (groan) big-screen TV, and a useful shop. Alternatively you can take time out from cooking and enjoy the local cuisine at the Village Restaurant, which is within walking distance of the campsite. Guided tours and sundowner drives can easily be arranged.

Is there a more upmarket-tented camp option?

If you have a higher budget, the Dolomite Safari Camp is a wonderful option. Set in the restricted western part of the park, lending it an air of exclusivity, Dolomite Camp is perched on top of a hill offering stunning elevated views of the endless plains. Exquisitely furnished (permanent) safari-style tents offer en-suite facilities and verandahs with stunning views of the western hills, saltpans and plains.

There is an excellent restaurant, infinity pool and a viewing deck over that all-important waterhole. The camp is unfenced, allowing animals to roam freely between the accommodation and communal areas (guides escort you between the two). Access to the park is through the Galton Gate. This part of Etosha is rich in elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and springbok and knowledgeable guides will assist in pointing out the diverse wildlife on game drives.

These are just a few examples of places to stay in Namibia that past travellers have loved. All our holidays are tailor-made, so once we have found out a little more about your family, we will suggest a range of properties that we think will suit you best. Do ring us, or email to find out more about where to stay in Namibia and we can put together an itinerary for you that is tailored to your family’s needs.