Kulala Desert Lodge

Highlights

Gain exclusive early access to the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei and the iconic Dead Vlei through our private-use gate, offering an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most photogenic landscapes. Enjoy thrilling desert adventures, explore fascinating geological formations, and encounter unique desert-adapted wildlife. Soar above the vast Namib Sand Sea and mystical fairy circles on a breath-taking hot air balloon ride* from our private reserve.

*Ballooning is subject to weather conditions and additional costs. Note: Ballooning is closed on 25 December, 01 January, and from mid-January to mid-February.

Destination: Nestled on 27,000 hectares of pristine private land at the foot of the majestic Sossusvlei dunes, Wilderness Kulala Desert Lodge offers unparalleled access to one of the most remarkable desert landscapes on Earth.

Experience: Explore the vast dune fields, climb Big Daddy—one of the world’s tallest sand dunes, hike the 30-meter deep Sesriem Canyon, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Tsauchab River Trail. Engage in exhilarating nature drives and guided walks, spotting desert-adapted wildlife. Families can enjoy guided exploration of the spectacular gravel plains on electric fat-tire bikes. For an unforgettable perspective, take a hot air balloon ride** over this fantastical landscape. Cap off the adventure with a rooftop sleep-out under a star-studded sky.

**Hot air ballooning is available at extra cost on a DB1 rate basis and included on an FI rate basis, subject to availability.

Purpose: Once a subsistence goat farm, the Kulala Wilderness Reserve was rehabilitated in 1996. Today, the land and its wildlife have been restored to their former glory, showcasing a thriving natural environment.

Wildlife: The reserve is home to striking desert-adapted wildlife, including the majestic oryx (gemsbok, Namibia’s national animal), springbok, spotted hyena, and the occasional brown hyena. Smaller creatures like bat-eared fox, black-backed jackal, porcupine, Cape fox, and aardwolf can also be seen. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting the endemic dune lark, perfectly camouflaged by the sand. A diverse array of insects, reptiles, and rodents, such as the buck-spoor spider and antlion, add to the area’s rich biodiversity. At dusk, the iconic call of barking geckos echoes through the still night.

Kulala Desert Lodge: This down-to-earth lodge offers a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for groups, families, and self-drive guests. The 23 thatch-and-canvas rooms (including two family units) are built on raised wooden platforms, featuring flat rooftop areas for sleep-outs under the clear Namibian sky. The public main area includes a comfortable and elegant living space, a sparkling pool, and a wraparound veranda overlooking a waterhole. Striking tree trunks used as pillars create a unique natural feature, drawing guests further into this remarkable desert realm.