Hoodia desert lodge

Hoodia Desert Lodge is situated on the banks of the Tsauchab river, and is only 22kms from the Sesriem entrance to Sossusvlei, and is an ideal location to visit Sesriem Canyon, the magnificent dunes of Sossusvlei on to the Namib Naukluft Park.

Sossusvlei is a clay pan created by a river that flows through the Namib desert every 5 to 10 years. It is famous for the spectacular high, red sand dunes which surround it, part of a major sand sea. The river does not reach the Atlantic Ocean, but drains away between the dunes of Sossusvlei. Vegetation, such as camelthorn trees, are watered by infrequent floods of the Tsauchab River, which slowly soak into the underlying clay. One local meaning of Sossus means 'place of no return' and the word vlei is an Afrikaans word for 'marsh.' Sossusvlei itself is in the small valley and is one of 4 clay pans in the area; the others being The Dead Vlei, Hidden Vlei and Nara Vlei.

Hoodia are a group of succulent plants from the family Apocynaceae it is traditionally used by the San people of as an appetite suppressant, thirst quencher and as a cure for severe abdominal cramps, haemorrhoids, tuberculosis, indigestion, hypertension and diabetes. More recently Hoodia has sprung to international attention as the magic cure-all diet product. However dieting will be the last thing on your mind when you visit the the restaurant at Hoodia Desert Lodge which offers exquisite international and traditional cuisine. All meals are from a set menu.

Sundowners and night-caps can be enjoyed in the bar with it's deck pool, a great spot to jump in and cool off from the hot, Namibian desert sun. Fine dining should be accompanied by fine South African wines, from their very own underground wine cellar, day or night.

Accommodation at the lodge consists of 12 single or double luxury tented bungalows. They are all equipped with a private open-air en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, tea/coffee station, in-room safe, shaded porch and stargazing platform.

The main activity in this area is the Sossusvlei Excursion and other game / scenic / sundowner drives are available. Guided bird and plant tours can also be organized.

Read MoreRead Less Book Now


Sossusvlei Tour: A professional guided 4x4 tour to Sossusvlei will lead to towering dunes, dry lakes and desert-dwelling flora and fauna. Savour your sumptuous dune lunch, complemented by fine wines and ice-cold drinks before heading off for a hike through the Sesriem Canyon. Arrive back at Hoodia Lodge in the late afternoon.

The Namib-Naukluft Mountain Excursion Experience: A professional guided tour to the beautiful Naukluft Mountains includes a hike followed by a mountain lunch.

Sundowner drive: Hoodia Lodge's very own sundowner experience; drinks and snacks at a private viewing point overlooking the ageless Namib Desert.

Ballooning over Sossusvlei: Drift over the dune fields at Sossusvlei and enjoy a champagne breakfast wherever the wind takes you.

Scenic Flights: Light aircraft regularly depart on scenic flights over Sossusvlei and its surroundings.

Agama River Camp

Agama River Camp

Lovely rooms with rooftop terraces or a choice of campsites around 45km north of Sesriem.

Desert Camp - Taleni Africa

Desert Camp - Taleni Africa

Desert Camp is situated only 5 km from the entrance gate to Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon in the Namib Naukluft Park.

Desert Hills Glamping Camp

Desert Hills Glamping Camp

Set on a ridge, Desert Hills Glamping Camp offers amazing views over the valley beneath.

Desert Homestead Lodge

Desert Homestead Lodge

Mid-range accommodation offering some of the best value for money in the area. Horse riding an added activity.

Desert Homestead Outpost

Desert Homestead Outpost

A new addition on the same property as the Desert Homestead. Hiking & riding are popular activities here.

Desert Quiver Camp - Taleni Africa

Desert Quiver Camp - Taleni Africa

Desert Quiver Camp uniquely combines modern self-catering accommodation with comfort and style.

Desert Whisper

Desert Whisper

Have you ever seen the vast horizons of the Namib Desert from a point of pure solitude? A place where the whisper of the wind is the only sound that stirs the desert silence? The Desert Whisper is the ideal opportunity to embrace silence and solitude, to break away from the rush. Located on a small outcrop within the Gondwana Namib Park, this is an intimate experience where guests can enjoy solitude without compromising on luxury. Guests park their car at the base of the outcrop and are transported to the Desert Whisper by their Host. The kitchen is fully stocked with thought-through culinary delights, and access to a selection of wines, gins, whiskeys and rums to tickly any fancy. The afternoon can be spent lounging by the private plunge pool, with its own stocked pool-bar; are swinging in the floating chairs on the Desert Whisper’s terrace. A moment here offers serenity unparalleled, as the sun sinks into the western horizon.

Elegant Desert Lodge

Elegant Desert Lodge

A budget choice, catering for both larger groups and individual travellers.

Greenfire Desert Lodge

Greenfire Desert Lodge

A small intimate lodge in an amazing part of the Namib Desert. While the lodge can be used as a base from which to visit the dunes at Sossusvlei, the tranquil and beautiful environment make it a destination in it's own right.

Kulala Desert Lodge

Kulala Desert Lodge

Up-market lodge with private entrance to the dunes at Sossusvlei.

Le Mirage Desert Lodge

Le Mirage Desert Lodge

Moroccan inspired architecture seems strangely out of place in Namibia. The location, spa and general amenities are good.

Little Kulala

Little Kulala

Luxury lodge with guided tour to the dunes using the lodges own private entrance, excellent choice for those looking for a little extra luxury.

Little Sossus Lodge

Little Sossus Lodge

Reasonable value for money - on the main route to Sossusvlei.

Namib Desert Camping2Go

Namib Desert Camping2Go

Take on the great outdoors, without the hassle of setting up a campsite. This is our version of glamorous camping. Show up and relax in style with this new self-catering experience. Tents are fully equipped with kitchen and en suite bathroom, and there is no need to bring any sleeping bags. Spend your evening looking out into the Namib Desert landscape, with the crackling fire to keep you company. For guests who wish to enjoy the best of camping and lodging – full lodge facilities are also available at this camping experience. Enjoy the activities on offer in the oldest Desert in the world.

Namib Desert Lodge

Namib Desert Lodge

The Namib Desert is an immense chronicle of time, offering a direct link to the ancient past, yet very much a living entity. Housed at the foot of 20-million-year-old petrified dunes, Namib Desert Lodge is one of Gondwana’s flagship properties. This property is a true oasis in the desert, with lush gardens offering shade over the lodge. Two glorious pools coax guests to enjoy the warm desert afternoon lounging and sipping icy cocktails. But fret not, adventure is close, with Sossusvlei just a short drive from the lodge. Join a Sossusvlei Excursion or travel at your own pace. Evenings are celebrated with Dune Drives to appreciate the sunset and view from atop the petrified dunes. Namib Desert Lodge provides a clear and uncluttered insight into the region’s past and present.

Namib Dune Star Camp

Namib Dune Star Camp

Face the horizon head on, from the crest of a dune where the stars are so clear they seem just beyond reach. A place where imagination becomes tangible. The Namib Dune Star Camp. A short drive from Namib Desert Lodge, guests are chauffeured to the camp. Dinner is served on a beautiful wooden deck with the horizon stretches into forever and delicious aromas float through the evening air. Each of the freestanding cabins are positioned along the crest of a dune to offer undisturbed views. What takes this experience into a class of its own, is that the bed in each chalet is on wheels. This offers guests the opportunity to wheel their bed onto the cabin’s private terrace where incomparable night-sky views await. Fall asleep to the silent sound of shooting starts and the whisper of the desert air.

Namib Mountain Trail

Namib Mountain Trail

Before sunrise, the hike will start after an early-bird-breakfast. The first leg consists of crossing the local landmark mountain. We will follow a canyon to the mountain saddle.

Soft Adventure Camp

Soft Adventure Camp

A combination of permanent structures and canvas make this an interesting choice for the budget conscious traveller.

Sossus Dune Lodge

Sossus Dune Lodge

The only lodge inside the borders of the national park. Allows for extra early visits to the Sossusvlei dunes.

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Most luxurious lodge in the area, air-conditioned rooms and top of the range guiding.

Sossusvlei Lodge - Taleni Africa

Sossusvlei Lodge - Taleni Africa

Situated adjacent to the oldest Desert in the world, Sossusvlei Lodge is a luxurious retreat in this premier tourist attraction area in Namibia.

The Desert Grace

The Desert Grace

Unique in every way, this property offers a new insight into the rhythms of the mighty Namib. The Desert Grace is the result of a daring architectural feat, with each building constructed entirely from sandbags instead of bricks. Facing the west, this lodge offers unparallel views of the sunset from the comfort of a private plunge pool. Pink Gin and Tonic’s and indulgence is the language in this iconic location. A place where the pulse of the desert comes alive as the setting sun dips into the western horizon. Guests have the opportunity to join a Sossusvlei Excursion, guided and inclusive of a champagne brunch. Or hop on board a Dune Drive in the Gondwana Namib Park, where sunset are celebrated on true Namibian fashion.

The Elegant Desert Eco Camp

The Elegant Desert Eco Camp

Situated a mere 45km from Sesriem, the sky melts into endless plains in a vista so vast it will take your breath away.

Traveller Reviews

These are honest reviews, both good and bad, from our travellers who visited this property.

Rambert, Charlie

9 Oct 2009

Also a very pleasant place to stay (I really enjoyed the outside bathroom), and also a very nice crew.

Bourquin, Michel

7 Aug 2015

Hoodia has been an extraordinary experience in Namibia, especially for food, welcome and quality of guides

Dorrington, Vivienne

10 Apr 2013

Beautiful, well appointed hotel. Superb service, delicious food and the guides made our trip very special.

Ayre, Ann

18 Sep 2014

Exceptionally well designed, helpful and pleasant staff Nice to be away from the hustle and bustle of Sesriem

Bonnet, Jean-charles

21 May 2013

Another lodge where we would like to stay more than two nights, the staff is so nice and the place so beautiful -

Vervaat, Wouter

26 Jan 2013

Feels like you're in the middle of the desert, which we liked. Nice bungalows. Good food and excellent wine list.

Abbott, Peter & Carol

6 Oct 2014

Very high quality, they looked after us very well and Hoodia should be top of your list for people visiting Sossusvlei

Brink, Bertie

3 Feb 2010

Had the best and the worst meal at Hoodia. Christmas dinner 2009 is an event better not remembered and cannot recommend

Geissler, Katrin

8 Apr 2010

was the best in Namibia, very very good, Management and team were wonderful! best service in Namibia food was excellent,

Andreatta, Marco

16 Aug 2016

outstanding .... the best!!! tomas is a fantastic manager and Johnny an exceptional person ... they will remain in the heart

Kaplan, Sybil

24 Jan 2016

beautiful location! Loved the accommodations, food and staff. Really enjoyed the Sossusvlei expedition, although it was HOT!

Siefken, Dirk

12 Jan 2015

Very nice lodge, super service and staff. The manager Jonathan helped us to exchange our car, perfect location for sossusvlei

Schneeweiss, Rebecca

9 May 2016

Excellent, top notch. Great beds, great host, great location, very good food. IMO - best choice for Sossusvlei. Tour was excellent.

Galvao, Anderson

23 Jan 2012

Myself and my wife both had a wonderful stay at Hoodia Desert Lodge. This is a place we certainly would return in a next trip to Namibia.

Perkins, Robert & Carol

9 Sep 2016

Great lodge and sunset watch away from the lodge on a beautiful rocky hill. Was disappointed we only stayed one night as they were fully booked.

Donkin, Margaret

4 May 2015

Excellent service at perfect venue with wonderful host. Excursion with Guide Jonathan was of the highest possible standard. Food also outstanding.

Trebble, Grant

16 Jul 2017

This was of the best service we have ever experienced - the entire team were professional and went out of their way to make us have an enjoyable stay.

Lau, Mandy

16 Aug 2014

Very professional and warm lodge- from service, meals to accommodation. Sunset drinks (extra) was extremely romantic and worthwhile. Highly recommend.

Cope-morgan, Alun

7 Mar 2015

Absolutely brilliant in every aspect. Beautiful environment, fantastic staff, great tour, wonderful food, excellent management/owners. Can't be faulted.

Maletsky, Mark

20 Sep 2013

Excellent choice for a lodge near Sossusvlei. Relatively close. Fabulous rooms. Excellent food and service. Highly recommended. Day activities available.

Stockings, Jon

7 Dec 2016

Awesome accommodation and a fantastic day trip to the dunes organised through the Lodge. John, our guide, was extremely knowledgable - one of the highlights.

Nevill, David

3 Nov 2013

Convenient for the sand dunes, comfortable, though disliked having piped music even at breakfast when the birdsong from outside was a much more suitable music.

Wythe,wolfgang

11 May 2016

One of the best lodges we had while travelling. We recommend a two night stay and to book the package so that you are sure to have the Sossusvlei trip included.

Richardson, Gary

26 Jun 2015

Great location. Very good food and service. Lovely reception/bar/sitting area. Very good excursion to dunes - worth paying for to have the benefit of the guide.

Williams, Stacey

6 May 2015

Easy to find, energetic staff. Beautiful lodge, one of our favourites. We told the owner it was our anniversary and he offered us a complimentary bottle of wine.

Rattray, Hugh

2 Aug 2014

Nice, but more expensive stay. Customer service and frendliness were first rate. Food was excellent. Did not like the fact that they has a leopard skin in the lounge

Le Maux,catherine

29 Nov 2014

the place to be in namib desert for the quality of services and team : wonderful welcome, perfect guides, exceptionnel day in namib, unforgettable lunch and sundowner

Doctors, Simone

11 Dec 2012

This is a beautiful, very comfortable place, with stunning views. I was very well looked after by the staff, who were welcoming and helpful. I would recommend it without hesitation.

Torres, Ana

19 Aug 2017

The lodge was very nice, and very well decorate. It was also perfectly equipped and food was excellent. However, the location was a little far from Sesriem. All in all I would recommended.

Giannelli, Giusy

20 Nov 2011

we liked it a lot! a perfect lodge near soussusvlei! the manager is a very nice guy. we never had such a nice introduction to the lodge!! the style of the lodge was exactly our taste! we loved it!

Lutz, Felix

3 Jun 2014

Service excellent, in particular the guide, who took us on the trip to Sossuvlei was an excellent guide with a lot of experience. The location itself pleased us slightly less than the other lodges.

Martin, Carolyn

30 Sep 2011

A really lovely place and Angula was a wonderful guide for Sossusvlei. Excellent vegetarian food and nothing is too much trouble. The views are wonderful, and there is a lovely walk along the river.

Andriamialisoa, Fanja

28 Aug 2011

Beautiful place, very nice owners. The rooms were great as were the common areas (living room, dining room, terrace). We wished we could have stayed longer. Very close to the Sossusvlei access gate.

Fernandez, Luisa

8 Oct 2009

I fell in-love with this place. The sunsets and sunrises are just amazing. The lodge facilities are top-notch. The chalet was incredible and the outdoor shower was a great touch. The service was great!

Gold, Lisi & Michael

18 Jun 2012

We felt very comfortable and food and service were excellent. David and Thelma did a great job and when ever you had questions or you needed any help they were there. The lodge is quite and the chalet is cosy.

Galanter, Jean

4 Mar 2014

One of the best in our travel, comfortable lodge and suite, outstanding view on the desert and very good cooking (we are french so it`s a real compliment). A little bit far from sossusvlei but we know that before.

Bonser, Jasmin

24 Sep 2012

Great location! Bring a flashlight for walking back to the room after a delicious dinner :) I loved the outside shower with the view of the mountains. After a daytrip to Soussvlei you can relax by the pool with a cocktail.

Candolfi, Marc

31 Dec 2013

This lodge is really nice and the staff was awesome, especially Thomas, the manager. I travel a lot and I have never seen a guy so friendly, always ready to help you or to have a little chat with you. There you really feel at home

Middleton, Richard

19 Dec 2014

This was our first stay after Windhoek and set the standard for the rest of the holiday. We were not dissapointed, great food, staff and accommodation, plus great day out to Soussesvlei. Excellent guide (essential for this visit). Lovely to have lunch out, under a tree.

Farci, Emanuela

28 Aug 2015

Beautiful lodge: luxury chalet, furnished with care and good taste. Superb location. Very good welcome from the staff (Victoria, Andreas, etc :). The most charming and friendly the owner, who offered us a drink after dinner, chatting pleasantly with us, listening to Italian music

Dhruv, Sharma

15 Aug 2016

We were very impressed with this place. I think this was the nicest place we stayed in the entire trip. The food was excellent. Special kudos to Victoria, who greeted us on arrival and served us at dinner and breakfast, for being so professional and yet having a great sense of humor.

Directions

Hoodia Lodge is around 22km south of Sesriem on the C19

Download Map

Enquire

Book Now

Our interactive Itinerary Builder allows you to plan your trip to Botswana or Namibia, selecting multiple properties on an easy-to-use map. Compatible properties can be booked immediately, and those without online availability can be sent to our reservations team for processing.

Launching soon...

Sorry, we can’t seem to find any matches for your search. Have a look at our popular searches below.

Lodges

(12)

Tours

(12)

Nature

(12)