A Gateway To The Animal Kingdom And The Culture Of The Aawambo

10 Jun 2020

The newest addition to the Gondwana Collection Namibia, Etosha King Nehale, has opened its doors on 10 June 2020. It is located on the northern edge of the legendary Etosha National Park, only one kilometre away from the King Nehale Gate. To the north of the lodge are the communal areas of the regions Oshikoto, Oshana, Ohangwena and Omusati, which have not been developed for tourism much until now. Yet it is home to the uniquely rich Oshiwambo culture, in which the Nguni cattle in particular, play a significant role.   

Accordingly, the chalets of Etosha King Nehale are laid out in a way that mimics the shape of Nguni horns. Each of the spacious accommodations, with its own mini pool on the private veranda is fit for a king. This is to no surprise, since the lodge bears the name of the late Ondonga King Nehale lya Mpingana. The 40 rooms give an impression of the rich cultural heritage of the region and offer a boundless view over the vast Andoni plain. Many of the interior decorations were made by local craftsmen and artists.   

The wonders of the nearby Etosha National Park can be experienced by guests of Etosha King Nehale in a very special way: During an excursion into the nature reserve, the guide drives in house guests to a natural water hole that is reserved for guests of Etosha King Nehale only. An elevated viewing platform provides a unique view of the waterhole, where, with a bit of luck, the rich diversity of the animal world can be observed. 

Etosha King Nehale was built in an environmentally friendly way using sandbags that were filled on site to form the structure. This natural building material has excellent sound and heat insulation qualities. The lodge is equipped with a solar and water treatment plant and waste is disposed of, sustainably.  

Etosha King Nehale is located 40 km from Namutoni on the northern border of the Etosha National Park and is an ideal starting point for trips to northern Namibia.   

Inke Stoldt