NAMIBIA WILDLIFE RESORTS. Conserving Namibia s Natural Heritage for future generations to appreciate

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1 NAMIBIA WILDLIFE RESORTS Conserving Namibia s Natural Heritage for future generations to appreciate

2 Namibia Wildlife Resorts is all about us creating lasting memories for you and your family by ensuring that we make your stay in Namibia as memorable as possible at every one of our resorts in the country. Our Gross Barmen Resort in the Gross Barmen Hot Springs Park, a mere 100 km north of Windhoek, offers various wellness services to meet your every need. South of the capital at Hardap Dam, Namibia s largest reservoir, the Hardap Resort and Hardap Game Reserve accommodate one of Namibia s most important Great White Pelican breeding colonies. Further south we will take you to Sossus Dune Lodge and Sesriem Campsite in the Namib-Naukluft Park, Namibia s largest conservation area, which borders the buffer zone of UNESCO s newly proclaimed Namib Sand Sea, its dunes extending across the park to the our desert coastline. This is where you will witness the spectacular sunrises and sunsets that are so inherent to the Namib Desert. In the far north-eastern corner of Namibia, you will find Popa Falls Resort, your gateway to the largest transfrontier park in the world. Known as the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area or KAZA, it spans five countries Angola, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia. The Popa Falls environment encompasses perennial rivers, indigenous woodlands, riverine forests and floodplains. It is an ideal base from which to explore the Mahango Game Park with its extensive birdlife and diversity of wildlife species. Luxury river bungalows face onto the river, and you can enjoy peaceful meals served in a restaurant that overlooks the rapids. Guided river cruises complete the Popa experience. For those of you who love adventure, we offer Shark Island, located on the Shark Peninsula in Lüderitz Bay in south-western Namibia. Accommodation is available in the Lighthouse, from where visitors will have a bird s-eye view of the seals and pelicans that frequent the surrounding rocky areas. Terrace Bay in the Skeleton Coast Park introduces visitors to the Namib, reputably the oldest desert in the world. It is also a popular angling resort. NWR is privileged to be the only entity that owns and manages resorts within the Etosha National Park, one of the largest savannah conservation areas in Africa and renowned for its spectacular wildlife seen against the unique setting of the Etosha Pan. In the different resorts you will enjoy intimate encounters with wildlife gathered around the various waterholes, providing you with exceptional viewing throughout the day and night. In addition to early morning and afternoon game drives, NWR also offers exclusive game drives at night, allowing visitors to experience the peace and tranquillity of the natural surroundings. To make your reservations, our online booking platform has been upgraded for your convenience. Should you experience any difficulties after working hours, we have a consultant ready to assist you. Last but not least, our Onkoshi, Dolomite and Popa Falls Resorts were recently presented with Eco Awards, signifying a mark of distinction for accommodation establishments that are planned and managed in accordance with eco-friendly principles. Welcome! Muaakurua Nohange! //khore //hare! Willkommen! Mwa thika mo nawa! Twamu Tambura! Welkom! Lwami Amuhela!

3 Namibia Wildlife Resorts is no ordinary tourism establishment. To the contrary; in its approach to offering a great tourism product, it is extraordinary! NWR offers its valued customers a memorable journey across Namibia a journey that takes you from the remote, rugged and mystical landscape of the Skeleton Coast Park across the wide-open plains of the Etosha National Park to the exotic riverine woodlands of Popa Falls. Namibia is undeniably a country of contrasting beauty, and wherever that beauty manifests itself, NWR is there to provide quality products and services to visitors with true Namibian hospitality and style. With our customer-driven services that range from an improved booking system to professional and passionate game guides and camp staff, NWR prides itself on its ability to diversify its products. Whether our customers are wildlife enthusiasts, adventure lovers or keen observers of spectacular landscapes, through NWR they will be able to experience all of these in Namibia

4 C41 C39 C35 C35 C35 C46 C14 C47 C40 C36 C28 C39 C46 C33 C C36 36 C14 C28 C24 C13 C38 C C13 C26 C14 C14 C14 C31 C21 C45 C30 C19 53 Fish 48 C25 C21 C10 75 C42 C12 C22 51 C15 C18 73 C C20 C C29 C C30 C15 C18 29 C20 C20 C17 21 C20 C20 40 C16 26 C22 C11 C10 91 C22 C C15 C11 C44 C16 NWR - A CONSERVATION AGENCY Namibia s dry-land ecosystems are a globally significant repository of biodiversity. These systems are internationally acclaimed for their wealth of species, habitat diversity and biological uniqueness. The authorities have established an impressive network of state-owned and -managed national parks that constitutes the cornerstone of the conservation programme in the country. This system comprises 22 parks, extending over some 18% of Namibia s surface area (114,000 km 2 ). NWR operates 18 tourist facilities in seven of these parks. The wildlife and pristine landscapes you will encounter in these areas bear testimony to the remarkable success of Namibia s conservation programmes, which have enabled the recovery of healthy populations of the endemic black-faced impala and endangered black rhino. Through an intensive programme of education and raising awareness among farmers by the Cheetah Conservation Fund, Namibia has also become the country with the world s largest population of free-ranging cheetah. National parks moreover continue to be a source of rural development and poverty alleviation due to the outstanding endeavours of the Communitybased Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme, which empowers rural communities to manage wildlife and ecosystems adjacent to national parks. Since 1996 the programme has been a resounding success with wildlife translocations conducted by national parks to over 76 communal conservancies, extending across approximately 18% of Namibia s land area and thus complementing the national parks system. Due to this programme, approximately one in four rural Namibians derives his or her livelihood from tourism and sustainable utilisation activities in conservancies. Namibia Wildlife Resorts is proud to play a role in Namibia s tourism industry, a sector that has become the largest and most sustainable land-use industry in the country. Hartmannberge Kunene Skeleton Coast National Park Khumi Baynes Mts. Etendeka TERRACE BAY RESORT TORRA BAY CAMPSITE Steilrandberg OPUWO Hoanib Uniab SESFONTEIN Huab Ugab Kunene OTJOVASANDU HENTIES BAY MILE 14 CAMPSITE SWAKOPMUND WALVIS BAY Brandberg A T L A N T I C O C E A N Omaruru Ugab Erongo Mts. Kuiseb Swakop Khomas Hochland Tsauchab Kuiseb Pass Gaub Pass ANGOLA Etosha National Park DOLOMITE RESORT KHORIXAS LODGE KAMANJAB KHORIXAS UIS B2 SOSSUSVLEI SHARK ISLAND LÜDERITZ OSHIKANGO OSHAKATI OLIFANTSRUS CAMPSITE Namib Naukluft Park Daimond Area USAKOS SESRIEM CAMPSITE B1 Daimond Area 1 ONDANGWA OKAUKUEJO RESORT OTJIWARONGO KALKFELD KARIBIB B2 SUN KAROSS DAAN VILJOEN Daan Viljoen Game Park Gamsberg Pass Spreetshoogte Pass SESRIEM SOSSUS DUNE LODGE ONKOSHI RESORT OUTJO OMARURU GROSS BARMEN RESORT SOLITAIRE Naukluft Berge Restricted Area Remhoogte Pass Tsarisberge AUS ORANJEMUND B4 R o o i r a n d Nuib - Hochplato Orange B1 NAMUTONI RESORT HALALI RESORT NAUKLUFT CAMP DUWISEB CASTEL B9 B1 B1 S c h w a r z B1 r a n d Hunsberge OTAVI B9 B1 Waterberg Palteau Park OKAHANDJA Fish TSUMEB B8 WINDHOEK REHOBOTH KALKRAND MALTAHÖHE HELMERINGHAUSEN WATERBERG RESORT BETHANIE OKAKARARA Windhoek International Airport HARDAP RESORT /AI-/AIS HOT SPRING SPA HOBAS CAMPSITE B1 Klein Karasberge B6 Kavango B1 GROOTFONTEIN MARIENTAL NOORDOEWER STEINHAUSEN B1 Groot Karasberge B8 STAMPRIET KEETMANSHOOP GRÜNAU SOUTH AFRICA GOBABIS LEONARDVILLE GOCHAS ARANOS KARASBURG B3 B6 55 ARIAMSVLEI Oranje RUNDU Okavango BOTSWANA Kavango B8 Kaudom Game Park TSUMKWE Mahango Game Reserve BOTSWANA Kwando Caprivi Game Park BAGANI POPA FALLS RESORT B8 Mudumu National Park KATIMA MULILO Linyandi ZAMBIA Zambezi Chobe Popa Falls Resort 1 Onkoshi Resort 2 Namutoni Resort 3 Halali Resort 4 Okaukuejo Resort 5 Olifantsrus Campsite 6 Dolomite Resort 7 Terrace Bay Resort 8 Torra Bay Campsite 9 Khorixas Lodge 10 Waterberg Resort 11 Gross Barmen Resort 12 Mile 14 Campsite 13 Sun Kaross Daan Viljoen 14 Sossus Dune Lodge 15 Sesriem Campsite 16 Naukluft Lodge 17 Hardap Resort 18 Duwisib Castle 19 Shark Island 20 Hobas Lodge 21 /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Spa 22

5 Ai-Ais DISTANCE TABLE Daan Vijoen Dolomite Camp Duwisib Gross Barmen Halali Hardap Henties Bay Hobas Jakkalsputz Keetmanshoop Khorixas Khorixas Lodge Luderitz Mile 108 Mile 72 Mile 14 Namutoni Okaukuejo Olifantrus Onkoshi Camp Otjiwarongo Popa Falls Sesriem Sossus Dune Lodge Swakopmund Terrace Bay Torra Bay Tsumeb Waterberg Windhoek Ai-Ais 7h20 14h00 6h30 8h30 11h20 4h30 11h30 1h30 11h35 2h20 12h30 12h35 5h00 13h30 12h30 11h35 12h40 12h00 14h20 14h00 9h15 16h30 8h30 8h40 11h10 14h15 13h10 12h00 9h50 7h20 Daan Vijoen 752 7h45 4h30 1h40 6h50 3h30 4h40 7h40 5h30 5h00 6h00 6h10 8h35 6h30 5h45 4h05 6h00 5h30 7h00 7h15 2h45 9h40 4h00 4h15 3h40 8h00 7h10 4h40 3h15 0h20 Dolomite Camp h30 7h00 3h40 9h30 8h35 14h10 8h30 12h20 5h00 5h10 15h20 7h45 9h10 9h10 5h50 2h15 1h14 6h30 4h30 12h30 11h20 11h30 8h20 8h15 7h10 7h10 4h50 7h40 Duwisib h30 9h00 2h30 6h00 7h30 7h00 4h00 9h30 9h40 4h30 7h00 6h30 7h05 11h00 9h30 11h10 12h15 7h00 14h40 2h00 2h10 6h40 12h30 11h40 9h30 7h30 5h00 Gross Barmen h00 4h00 4h20 8h30 5h00 6h00 4h10 4h20 10h00 6h40 5h30 3h55 5h20 4h10 6h00 6h40 2h10 9h10 5h00 5h10 3h30 8h00 7h10 3h50 2h45 1h20 Halali h15 7h45 13h15 7h40 11h00 3h45 3h55 14h25 6h00 8h00 8h20 1h25 1h25 5h00 2h50 3h25 7h50 10h30 10h40 7h25 7h00 6h10 3h30 3h30 6h00 Hardap h00 5h00 8h00 2h00 7h50 8h00 6h30 9h15 9h00 6h55 7h40 7h50 7h10 9h00 5h40 12h30 3h20 3h30 6h30 10h40 9h50 8h00 6h15 2h40 Henties Bay h00 0h10 9h30 3h00 3h05 10h00 1h30 0h40 0h35 7h30 6h20 6h00 8h50 4h00 11h00 3h30 3h40 1h00 3h10 2h20 5h40 5h00 5h00 Hobas h00 2h40 12h00 12h10 6h15 13h00 11h30 11h45 12h30 11h50 13h50 13h50 9h45 15h30 7h45 7h55 11h10 14h30 13h40 11h30 9h30 7h10 Jakkalsputz h30 2h30 2h35 9h50 1h30 0h40 0h40 7h00 6h10 6h30 8h20 4h00 11h20 3h50 4h00 1h05 3h00 2h10 6h15 5h00 4h50 Keetmanshoop h30 9h35 3h20 11h00 9h35 8h45 10h35 9h15 11h50 11h50 7h20 13h40 5h00 5h10 8h10 12h15 11h30 9h30 7h15 4h40 Khorixas h05 13h00 3h45 2h40 3h35 4h00 2h15 3h00 5h20 2h15 8h30 6h15 6h25 3h10 2h30 1h40 3h30 2h35 4h20 Khorixas Lodge h05 3h50 2h45 3h35 4h05 2h20 3h20 5h25 2h20 8h35 6h20 6h30 3h15 2h35 1h45 3h35 2h40 4h25 Luderitz h30 9h30 7h45 13h40 12h50 15h00 15h00 10h50 17h00 6h00 6h10 7h10 10h30 9h40 12h30 10h45 8h20 Mile h50 2h05 6h15 5h00 6h20 7h35 2h35 10h00 5h00 5h10 1h50 1h50 1h00 5h25 6h10 6h25 Mile h15 7h50 6h25 5h20 9h10 4h30 11h15 4h20 4h30 2h15 2h50 2h00 6h15 5h00 5h05 Mile h05 6h55 6h35 9h25 4h35 11h35 2h55 3h05 0h25 3h45 2h55 6h15 5h15 4h05 Namutoni h50 7h00 1h20 5h20 6h15 10h05 10h15 7h30 7h00 6h10 2h05 4h00 6h00 Okaukuejo h50 4h10 2h00 7h30 9h00 9h10 6h00 5h40 4h50 3h50 2h15 4h50 Olifantrus h50 4h10 12h00 17h00 17h20 7h00 6h00 5h50 8h00 5h00 6h50 Onkoshi Camp h30 7h25 11h15 11h25 8h40 8h10 7h20 3h20 5h10 7h10 Otjiwarongo h50 6h10 6h20 3h40 4h30 3h40 1h50 1h20 2h10 Popa Falls h00 13h10 10h30 11h20 10h30 4h30 7h10 9h30 Sesriem h10 3h30 6h40 5h50 6h35 6h30 4h00 Sossus Dune Lodge h40 6h50 6h00 6h45 6h40 4h10 Swakopmund h00 3h10 6h00 4h50 3h40 Terrace Bay h50 6h30 6h00 7h40 Torra Bay h40 5h10 6h50 Tsumeb h30 4h30 Waterberg h40 Windhoek Distance (km) Note: time estimated at 120km/h on national public roads and at 60km/h on national park roads Approximate driving time (hours)

6 The Etosha National Park is one of Southern Africa s most spectacular wildlife reserves. Initially proclaimed in 1907, the park is also one of the oldest game reserves in Namibia. Its size, conservation history and unique landscape justify its title as the country s flagship conservation area. The extensive chalky-white clay pan, covering an expanse of approximately 4,500 km 2 about 20% of the surface area of the park gave rise to the name Etosha, meaning Great White Place of Dry Water. The pan was originally a large inland lake fed by the Kunene River. Over thousands of years, as the course of the river and its tributaries changed, the lake gradually dried up. Today it is an extensive and dusty depression that fills temporarily with water during the rainy season, in some years only partially. When the pan contains water, it attracts flamingos and pelicans in impressive numbers, as well as a wide variety of other wading birds. The perennial springs along the edge of the Etosha Pan attract and sustain large concentrations of animals and birds. One of the largest savannah conservation areas in Africa, the Etosha National Park is world renowned for its spectacular wildlife viewing. Visitors can expect to see elephant, black and white rhino, lion, leopard, cheetah, large herds of springbok, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe and a multitude of other fascinating species, big and small, interacting in their natural environment. The resorts located within the Etosha National Park are managed exclusively by Namibia Wildlife Resorts. They include the three classic camps, Okaukuejo, Halali and Namutoni; two relatively new accommodation establishments that form part of the NWR s eco-collection of resorts: Onkoshi Resort, first opened in 2008, and Dolomite Resort, the first lodge to be established in western Etosha; and the exclusive Olifantsrus Campsite, which belongs to the NWR s Adventure and Camping Collection. ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK Visitors can experience the park on morning and afternoon guided drives, or at night on guided excursions that provide visitors with an opportunity to experience an entirely different side of Etosha s wildlife treasures. All guided drives are undertaken in specially modified Land Rovers with experienced guides who introduce you to the wonders of nature, both big and small.

7 ONKOSHI RESORT Situated on a peninsula on the eastern edge of the Etosha Pan a large geological formation that can be seen from outer space is the luxurious Onkoshi Resort. Designed as an exclusive, eco-friendly, semi-permanent and up-market facility, Onkoshi Resort was built on elevated wooden decks. A great deal of care was taken throughout its construction process to ensure that the camp would have as little impact as possible on the surrounding environment. Guest accommodation at Onkoshi is in 15 units built primarily with wood, thatch and canvas. Each unit has a wooden deck where guests can relax and absorb the exotic mystery of the Etosha Pan, whether filled with water due to an exceptional rainy season or having reverted back to the more familiar desiccated white pan of drier times. Restaurant and bar facilities are hosted at a central area, which also contains an open-air swimming pool overlooking the vast expanse of the pan. The exclusive activities offered include guided game drives to remote parts of the park. GPS coordinates: S E

8 Namutoni Resort is located at the eastern edge of the Etosha National Park. Its mainstay is an old German Fort that overlooks the King Nehale Waterhole. The lookout tower offers an ideal perspective from which to enjoy Namibia s magnificent sunsets. Namutoni s close proximity to the pan affords majestic vistas of wildlife moving at dawn and dusk between the pan and the surrounding bushveld. The waterholes in the immediate vicinity of Namutoni offer superb wildlife viewing. To the north and north-east lie Groot and Klein Okevi, Aroe and Two Palms. To the south and south-west are Klein Namutoni, Chudob, Kalkheuwel, Okerfontein, Ngobib, Batia and Springbokfontein. Lions are commonly seen and you might even have the good fortune catch a glimpse of an elusive leopard. Accommodation is provided in comfortable double rooms or bush chalets. Camping is also an option. GPS coordinates: S E NAMUTONI RESORT

9 HALALI RESORT Situated halfway between Okaukuejo and Namutoni at the base of a dolomite hill amongst shady mopane trees is Halali, an immaculate resort that provides an ambience of tranquillity and space. It is surrounded by some of the most popular waterholes in the park. A floodlit waterhole that is viewed from an elevated vantage point within the camp provides exceptional wildlife viewing throughout the day and night. Accommodation is provided in secluded self-catering family chalets, with elevated patios overlooking the surrounding landscape; two- and four-bed bush chalets, all with braai facilities; double rooms fitted with large sliding doors to the outside to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings; and premier units, or honeymoon suites, equipped with outdoor Jacuzzi facilities ideal for relaxing after a long, hot day of game viewing under the magnificent African sky. GPS coordinates: S E

10 Okaukuejo, located 17 km from Ombika Gate, the southern entrance of the park, was the first tourist camp to be opened in Etosha. Okaukuejo is famous for its floodlit waterhole, where visitors can observe a spectacle of wildlife congregating and interacting at close quarters. It s not uncommon to have numerous black rhinos simultaneously quenching their thirst, illuminated only by the artificial lighting provided at the waterhole. Accommodation to suit every need is provided in premier double-storey chalets with balconies overlooking the waterhole; bush chalet rooms facing the waterhole; bush chalets; family chalets; and double rooms. All units are provided with tea stations and fridges, while the bush chalets are also equipped with a braai area. Family chalets are fully equipped for self-catering. GPS coordinates: S E OKAUKUEJO RESORT

11 OLIFHANTSRUS CAMPSITE Situated in western Etosha in an area that was reserved for research in former years, is Olifantsrus Campsite, a first-of-itskind, exclusive facility that offers game viewing from an elevated state-of-the-art hide overlooking a manmade waterhole. The hide has two storeys. The ground floor is at water level and is glass-fronted, allowing for a unique vantage point to observe the behaviour of the animals as they interact while quenching their thirst, and as protection against the cold on winter nights for those especially interested in nocturnal waterhole activity. The top floor of the hide is raised, allowing for an unobstructed view of the events unfolding below. This is particularly useful for photographers, as there is no glass to interfere with taking the perfect picture. There is a kiosk that offers welcome refreshments, snacks and cold drinks. GPS coordinates: S E

12 Nestled amongst the Dolomite outcrops of picturesque western Etosha, Dolomite Resort presents a striking and complete wildlife retreat. Completed and opened to visitors in 2011, Dolomite Resort was the first tourism facility to be established within the previously access-restricted western section of the park. Having benefited from close to a century of conservation work by the environment and tourism authorities, this half of the park with its healthy population of the previously endangered black rhino, black-faced impala and mountain zebra provides a haven for nature enthusiasts. Dolomite Resort features 20 stylishly decorated chalets, three of which are deluxe with the added comfort of a private splash pool on a patio overlooking the vast and endless horizons of this magnificent part of the park. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the lavish comfort of the restaurant, bar, rooftop lounge and infinity pool, all providing spectacular panoramic views of the plains of western Etosha. GPS coordinates: S E DOLOMITE RESORT

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14 POPA FALLS RESORT With its perennial rivers, magnificent indigenous woodlands, riverine forests, floodplains and reed-lined channels, Popa Falls Resort is your gateway to the north-eastern corner of Namibia. It is the ideal base from which to explore the Mahango Game Park, where some 450 bird species have been recorded. A wide variety of wildlife species, including elephant, hippo, buffalo, crocodile, red lechwe, reedbuck, roan and sable antelope and if you re lucky, even the elusive sitatunga can be observed here. Tigerfish, threespot and greenheaded tilapia are just a few of the game-fish species that occur in the Okavango River, making Popa a popular destination for anglers. The falls are in reality a series of cascades created by a quartzite ledge that causes the river to split into numerous channels. They can be accessed from the rest camp on foot. Popa Falls Resort has been extensively redeveloped with new luxury river cabins on the island, providing accommodation with rooms facing onto the river, a restaurant overlooking the rapids and additional activities such as guided river cruises and mokoro tours, all of which are part of the Popa experience. GPS coordinates: S E

15 Extending across about a third of Namibia s coastline, the legendary Skeleton Coast Park stretches 500 km from the Ugab River in the south to the Kunene River in the north. The attraction of this remote desert park lies essentially in the colour, changing moods and untouched profile of its landscape. Its aura of mystery and impenetrability is created by the many shipwrecks, dense coastal fogs and cool sea breeze generated by the cold Benguela Current. Sweeping northwards up Namibia s coastline, the cold Benguela Current supports some of the highest concentrations of marine life found in the world. The current played a crucial role in the formation of the world s oldest desert, the Namib. SKELETON COAST PARK

16 TERRACE BAY RESORT Cradled between the Atlantic Ocean and the 150-metre-high longitudinal dune belt, Terrace Bay Resort is the most northerly resort on the Namib coast, and is a popular angling destination. The resort offers a secluded haven for those venturing into this enticing desert that evokes an eerie sense of mystery and intrigue. The resort offers 20 double rooms, one 10-bed beach chalet, one six-bed beach chalet, a bar and restaurant serving authentic Namibian cuisine, freezer facilities, all angling amenities, and either guided or self-guided fishing trips. Other recreational activities include bird-watching, exploring the adjacent dune sea, hiking in the Uniab River delta or viewing wildlife from a hide in the delta. Camping facilities are also available, as well as a shop, filling station and landing strip for light aircraft. GPS coordinates: S E

17 Torra Bay Campsite, situated 50 km south of Terrace Bay Resort, provides a unique on the beach camping experience. From here superb 4x4 routes are offered between the Khoichab and Uniab rivers, where fresh-water fountains attract a myriad of wildlife, including the hardy desert-adapted lion and elusive brown hyaena. Because Torra Bay is a seasonal campsite that is open only in December and January, the surrounding landscape has remained pristine. The facilities at Torra Bay Campsite include communal ablution facilities, a fully stocked tourism shop that caters for campers and anglers, a fuel station, and a rustic beach tavern, where anglers and campers gather to reminisce about the day s events and exchange tales of the one that got away. GPS coordinates: S E TORRA BAY CAMPSITE

18 WATERBERG RESORT Towering some 200 metres above the surrounding landscape, the Waterberg Plateau with its precipitous cliffs and fascinating rock formations is one of the most spectacular features in northern Namibia. The Waterberg Resort offers accommodation in comfortable premier bush chalets; two- and four-bed bush chalets; and double rooms, all nestled along the base of the Waterberg Plateau cliffs, shaded by towering trees. The restaurant, bar and kiosk are housed in the historic Rasthaus, originally built in 1908 and used as a police post for several years. Additional facilities are a shop, swimming pool and camping sites. Guided drives are offered daily up onto the plateau, which is managed as a breeding area for rare and endangered species such as black and white rhino, buffalo, and sable and roan antelope. The natural beauty of the area can be explored on foot, by means of guided or self-guided trails, or by undertaking short trails from the camp. All these trails provide spectacular bird-viewing opportunities and a rich diversity of interesting flora. GPS coordinates: S E

19 Located some 100 km from Windhoek, the Gross Barmen Resort nestles on the banks of a tributary of the Swakop River. Set between rows of palm trees, green lawns and pleasant walking paths, the resort is ideal for visitors of all ages, and is wheelchair friendly. Gross Barmen includes facilities for spa and wellness, fitness, recreation, and leisure. The main attraction at Gross Barmen is the health and hydro/medical spa centre, featuring thermal pools and providing a full range of treatments, massages, and health activities to further relaxation. Other amenities include indoor and outdoor thermal pools, conference facilities that can accommodate up to 250 people, and a restaurant, bar and shop. The restaurant overlooks the dam, which attracts more than 150 different species of birds, making it a hotspot for bird-watching. Accommodation is provided in bush chalets, family and premium family chalets, bush chalets and luxury premier chalets each with its own private splash pool. There are also campsites. GPS coordinates: S E GROSS BARMEN RESORT

20 NAMIB-NAUKLUFT PARK The Namib-Naukluft Park is the fourth largest conservation in Africa. Situated in the central Namib between the western escarpment and the coast, it comprises the Naukluft Mountains and southern Namib Desert. This arid region offers poignant and breathtaking landscapes. Surrounded by monumental star-shaped dunes of red sand, some up to 325 metres high, is a vast clay pan referred to as Sossusvlei. Over the years the vlei has become a top destination for visitors attracted by the wonders of the Namib. Formed by strong multi-directional winds, the dunes are at their highest and most spectacular where the west-flowing Tsauchab River empties itself into the vlei. The warm tints of the sand, ranging from apricot to orange, red and maroon, contrast vividly with the dazzling white surfaces of the large deflationary clay pans at their bases. One of these, referred to as Dead Pan or Dead Vlei, is a large ghostly expanse of desiccated white clay, punctuated by skeletons of ancient camel-thorn trees, carbon-dated as being between 500 and 600 years old. When it has rained sufficiently in the interior for the Tsauchab River to flow and fill the main pan, flamingos and other aquatic birds are drawn to the water. The Namib is one of the least populated areas in the country. Here the visitor can experience an intense feeling of vastness and isolation and soak up the magical and awe-inspiring beauty of the night skies like in few other places on earth.

21 Built with an environmentally sensitive approach, primarily from wood, canvas and thatch in an attractive Afro-village style, Sossus Dune Lodge has been accommodating visitors since Situated within the Namib-Naukluft Park close to the Sesriem Canyon, and providing sweeping vistas of the dunes to the west, guests benefit from being able to reach Sossusvlei before sunrise, and to stay there until after sunset. On their return after an exhilarating day in the sun and sand, they can relax in the tranquillity and splendour of the Namib Desert under a spectacular African sky. Accommodation units are interlinked by elevated wooden walkways. They consist of 25 well-spaced en suite desert chalets, equipped with tea stations and small fridges; two honeymoon suites at both ends; and an additional relaxation gazebo. All units offer magnificent open vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Rates are on a dinner, bed-and-breakfast basis, allowing visitors to benefit fully from the fine cuisine. Professionally guided excursions to Sossusvlei, Sesriem and the surrounding areas are offered, as well as sunset drives and guided walks that fully unleash the beauty and biological diversity of the desert environment. GPS coordinates: S E SOSSUS DUNE LODGE

22 SESRIEM CAMPSITE Sesriem, situated on the edge of the world s oldest desert, is the ideal starting point for exploring the Namib Desert. With entrance to the Namib-Naukluft Park restricted to between sunrise and sunset, staying at the Sesriem Campsite gives the visitor the advantage of being able to explore Sossusvlei before sunrise and staying after the sun has set, exposing them to one of the lesser-known spectacles of the Namib, as the massive wind-shaped sand dunes are best viewed during the early morning when the sun highlights the sharp crests and enhances the colour of the dunes. Nearby attractions include Sesriem Canyon a three-kilometre-long gorge, approximately 40 metres deep and estimated to be two to four million years old. A recent amenity at Sesriem is a restaurant that provides much-needed sustenance to visitors. GPS coordinates: S E

23 The Naukluft Mountains, which comprise the easternmost section of the Namib-Naukluft Park, are known for their wildlife, especially Hartmann s mountain zebra and leopard. The Naukluft Lodge with its exquisitely finished bungalows and highly esteemed restaurant and bar is more than just a basic camp located amidst formidable cliffs; it is also the perfect departure point for tackling the famous eight-day Naukluft Hiking Trail. This trail is widely regarded as one of Africa s toughest hiking experiences. The trail is 160 kilometres long and takes intrepid hikers through breathtaking sections of the park, affording spectacular mountain scenery and crystal-clear rock pools where you can swim, relax and unwind while surrounded by the mystical ambience of the age-old Namib Desert. Day hikes and 4x4 trails are available for the more adventurous at heart. GPS coordinates: S E NAUKLUFT LODGE

24 HARDAP RESORT The Hardap Resort, which offers accommodation in the form of bush chalets, family chalets and campsites on the periphery of the Hardap Dam, is the perfect place to stop en route to Namibia s larger and more prominent national parks in the south and north of the country, and to simply enjoy a relaxing family breakaway. It is also a sought-after venue for corporate conferences. The scenic restaurant overlooking the vast expanse of the dam also makes Hardap ideal for lunch stopovers and day visits. Hardap Dam is not only a perfect angling and water-sports location, but is surrounded by a rugged national park that is home to an interesting variety of bird and game species. GPS coordinates: S E

25 Duwisib Castle - a historical site and a national monument - is a convenient stopover when travelling from Sesriem and Sossusvlei. Built from sandstone and featuring battlements and turrets, Duwisib Castle has a rich history of romance and tragedy. Completed in 1909, it was built by a Baron von Wolf for his American wife Jayta. Most of the building materials, furniture and fittings were shipped from Germany, and transported from Lüderitz to Duwisib by ox wagon. However, the castle that had been built as a gift of love, foreshadowed a sad ending for Baron von Wolf, who had planned to breed horses in this semi-desert environment. He was killed in 1916 during the First World War, and was thus unable to realise his dream. Legend has it that some of the Baron s horses escaped to become the ancestors of the wild horses that roam the southern Namib in the Aus environs. His wife left Duwisib never to return, leaving the castle and all its contents and dreams behind. Accommodation is provided in the castle in five exclusive rooms, and there are ten campsites. There is a restaurant in the castle. GPS coordinates: S E DUWISEB CASTEL

26 /AI-/AIS RICHTERSVELD TRANSFRONTIER PARK In the heart of two age-old desert biomes the Succulent Karoo and the Nama Karoo and separated by the Orange River, lie two enormously species-rich and spectacular parks the /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Park on the Namibian side and the Richtersveld National Park on the South African side. These two parks feature the world s richest diversity of desert flora; an international diamond-carrying river; the second-largest canyon in the world; desolate landscapes shaped by nature over millions of years; an immense array of succulent plant species; and an intriguing variety of desert-adapted animals, reptiles and insects. In light of the rugged yet fragile nature of these landscapes with their intriguing wealth of plant species, a treaty was signed between the Namibian and South African governments in 2003 to connect Namibia s /Ai-/Ais National Park and South Africa s Richtersveld National Park to form the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. Joint management of the park by the Namibian and South African authorities ensures that the parks are not managed as islands but as integrated conservation landscapes, an ideology that ensures the survival of the plant and wildlife diversity in the area.

27 A stay at the /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Spa is terrific way to celebrate having hiked the majestic Fish River Canyon. Originating from deep below the riverbed and rising to the surface at 65 degrees Celsius, thermal springs empty their contents into therapeutic indoor and outdoor thermal pools, both with superb views of the surrounding rugged mountainous landscape. Affectionately referred to in the local Nama language as the Place of Burning Water, the upgraded /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Spa embodies the spirit of southern Namibia s serene albeit rugged environment, where the focus has shifted to new, personal and client-oriented service. Accommodation is provided in 36 upmarket en suite double rooms that represent the central spa complex and overlook either the mountain or the river, and seven all-inclusive and self-catering premier chalets complete with Jacuzzis and a large campsite. Wellness services are provided by professional masseurs, offering a range of massages customised to meet the client s needs and preferences. The facility also has an enlarged restaurant, bar facilities, a filling station and a shop. GPS coordinates: S E /AI-/AIS HOT SPRING SPA

28 HOBAS LODGE Hobas Lodge is a small oasis situated at the north-eastern rim of the Fish River Canyon. In earlier years it consisted of campsites tucked away among a cluster of trees. The addition of 6 luxuriously spacious bungalows with en suite bathrooms, an upmarket restaurant, a swimming pool and a bar enables Hobas Camp to cater for a much wider range of visitors to the Fish River Canyon than in former years. Hobas is the ideal place to rest up before embarking on the famous Fish River Canyon hiking trail. Its close proximity to the Fish River Canyon Viewpoint also makes it the foremost lookout point for visitors who only want to marvel at the majestic vistas of the world s second-largest canyon, especially at dusk and dawn when the colours come alive. GPS coordinates: S E

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31 ADVENTURE TOURISM Namibia s vast pristine wilderness areas offer the ideal setting for adventure tourism, where the only limitations are the imagination of the adventurous spirit. From the depth of the Fish River Canyon to the lofty vistas of the Namib Naukluft Trail, Namibia Wildlife Resorts is ideally situated and has the resources to facilitate your Namibian adventure, be it on foot, by mountain bike or when kayaking. For serious hikers a must-do highlight is the 85 km Fish River Canyon Hike, where awesome vistas unfold as you descend into the depth of the canyon. The trail then winds along the Fish River course with steep canyon walls on either side. These gradually give way to open plains where Namibia s hardy desert horses seek refuge in the dry season. The trail ends at /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Spa, an oasis where a cold beverage and relaxing soak in the hot springs offers welcome relief after arduous days on the trail. The 120-kilometre Namib-Naukluft Trail is a true test of stamina that will keep you agog and guessing as you meander up, over and down the Naukluft Mountains. Each time you crest a ridge or descend into a valley there is another matchless experience to be had, from cooling off in the natural pools above a 200-metre dry waterfall to descending steep gorges aided by chains anchored in the rocks.

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33 - reservations@nwr.com.na Tel: Fax: Emergency Number: Strategic Partners