Hoodia Desert Lodge

At the foot of the Namib-Naukluft Mountains, overlooking the dry bed of an ephemeral river, Hoodia Desert Lodge is a small, owner run lodge with a warm welcome to match the spectacular surroundings.

There are just 11 thatched luxury chalets, all with indoor and outdoor bathrooms, air conditioning and huge windows with views across the plains best enjoyed from bed.

Follow the wooden walkway to the central communal areas, such as the shaded swimming pool, lounge, bar and restaurant. The food is an inventive mix of traditional and international cuisine accompanied by a wide selection of South African wines. Outside on the decking, a large central fireplace doubles as a braai in summer months.

The lodge is great base for exploring the vast dunes of Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon as well as the surrounding desert landscape, with horseback riding, hikes, hot air ballooning, helicopter flights and quad biking all available from here.