Desert horse inn

The Desert Horse Inn is situated on Klein Aus Vista Nature Reserve, 2km from the small town of Aus, in southern Namibia. The lodge is situated on a 10 hectare farm that borders on the Sperrgebiet (forbidden diamond mining area). This establishment is an ideal stopover between Keetmanshoop, Fish River Canyon, and Luderitz. The Namib Desert Wild Horses are often found near the lodge.

The main area at the Desert Horse Inn is built entirely of wood, and houses the main reception area and curio shop on the lower floor. A telephone, fax machine and an internet connection are also located here. A staircase to the side takes you to the restaurant, bar and sitting area upstairs. There is also an outside deck area under a shaded roof, where you can sit and enjoy the impressive panoramic views.

The bar is well-stocked with spirits, local beers and wines, and there is a fireplace for those cold winter nights. The Inn is decorated with seed pods, ostrich eggs and other natural materials from the area.

There is a lounge with comfortable sofas and arm chairs, and old fashioned luggage serving as coffee tables. The floors are scattered with animal skin-rugs, giving the room an old, African safari camp feel.

The main indoor restaurant has high ceilings supported by wooden beams, large windows and it offers a 270° panoramic view. Meals are served either as a buffet, set menu or 'plate serve', depending on the number of guests.

The Desert Horse Inn offers 24 luxury rooms with spacious, en-suite bathrooms. Each room has a fridge, fan, mosquito nets, tea/coffee station and an in-room safe.

It is an ideal destination for families, as there is plenty of room for kids to run around and play in. Ostriches are kept near the main area of the Desert Horse Inn, which are a source of enjoyment and interest for younger and older members of the family alike.

The much-photographed Namib Feral (wild) horses can often be found in the area around Klein Aus Vista. Look out for them grazing on either side of the road on the way to Luderitz. Capture the combination of high yellow grass and mountains, a superb photographic opportunity.

Keen walkers can hike from one of two possible bases on Klein Aus Vista. The first is from the Desert Horse Inn, a short 1-hour sunset walk, or perhaps guests would prefer to take the longer 3-hour walking trail. The cooler April to mid-October months are the ideal period for hiking.

Mountain biking and horse riding can also be organized here.

Views of vast desert plains

Located in the Aus Mountains at 1 400 metres above sea level, Desert Horse Inn affords grand vistas of mountain scenery and sweeping desert plains. It consists of 24 spacious and tastefully decorated en suite rooms. Relax with sundowners on the wooden deck before enjoying a 3-course meal in the restaurant. Exchange travel experiences and recommendations at the evocative Wild Horse Bar or at the cosy fireplace in the lounge.