Wolwedans Dune Camp

OVERVIEW:

Perched on a 250-metre-high dune, Wolwedans Dune Camp is a classic tented camp that appeals to adventurous travelers seeking authenticity with all the creature comforts intact. Occupying a stunning location in the private NamibRand Nature Reserve, this is a strikingly scenic desert area, comprising red dunes, gravel plains, and granite mountains. In addition to the camp’s six tented rooms, there’s a private 2-bedroom suite that works particularly well for families. Guests can choose from an exciting range of activities, including e-biking, hot air ballooning, and stargazing in one of the least light-polluted areas on Earth. Rates at Wolwedans Dune Camp are full board and include all meals, house drinks, a selection of activities, and limited laundry.

ACCESS & LOCATION:

Wolwedans Dune Camp is located in the private NamibRand Nature Reserve in south-west Namibia. Guests should not confuse this area with the huge dune fields at nearby Sossusvlei – it is far more sophisticated and subtle, and overall it provides a substantially quieter experience. Trips to Sossusvlei are not included in the rate and are usually not recommended – it’s a 2-hour, bumpy ride each way. To get to Wolwedans Dune Camp, guests take a 1-hour charter flight from Windhoek or Swakopmund to Wolwedans airstrip. From there, it’s a 15-minute drive each way to Dune Camp. Those arriving by road have a scenic 6–7-hour drive from either Windhoek or Swakopmund. Wolwedans also offers privately guided journeys from Windhoek in a closed 4×4.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT WOLWEDANS DUNE CAMP:

Wolwedans Dune Camp offers six spacious guest tents, all elevated on wooden platforms, which maximise the panoramic desert views and are spaced well apart for privacy. The style is simple and uncluttered, featuring roll-up canvas windows, king-size or twin beds, wood floors, and natural-weave rugs. Each has a stylish indoor–outdoor bathroom, complete with a shower, a flush toilet, and twin basins. Generously sized outdoor decks allow for plenty of comfortable lounging, and each has a ‘Wolwedans Chiller’ – a small plunge pool for the hotter months – and a sleep-out facility for those who wish to spend a night beneath the stars. Additional room amenities include mosquito nets and an electronic safe. The 2-bedroom private suite is situated a short walk from the main area and contains two en-suite bedrooms, as well as a communal space. Ideal for families or two couples, this unit benefits from a private chef and guide, a small private lounge and dining area, as well as outside bathrooms, a sleep-out deck, and two Wolwedans Chillers.

The main area at Wolwedans Dune Camp features a series of interlocking decks, including an inviting lounge, a dining area where guests enjoy meals together, and a tea room, all of which offer panoramic views of the endless dunes. The tents are designed to blend seamlessly with the desert landscape, and the canvas sides can be opened to capture the cooling breeze during the summer months. Guests often spend evenings sharing stories around the fire-pit, and for those desiring a little privacy, private meals can be arranged beneath the stars or in the Wolwedans vegetable garden.

ACTIVITIES AT WOLWEDANS DUNE CAMP:

Activities at Wolwedans Dune Camp are centred on the spectacular NamibRand Nature Reserve, where guests can enjoy horse riding, e-biking, hot air balloon excursions, scenic drives, and walks.

• Scenic drives

   - Explore the remotest corners of the vast NamibRand Nature Reserve on a sunrise or sunset scenic drive. Full-day or half-day options are also available.

• Bushman walks

  - Guided by a knowledgeable Bushman, explore the Namib dunes on foot, taking in the small, vital details of this extraordinary ecosystem. Look out for the toktokkie beetle and the indigenous dancing white lady spider as it dashes across the sand.

• Solitude experience

  - The Wolwedans 30–45-minute signature solitude experience allows guests to completely disconnect in the heart of nature. You’ll spend quality time at a quiet spot in the desert, completely free from noise and the distraction of technology.

• Horse riding

   - Horse riding in the NamibRand Nature Reserve is an immersive way to explore the land and experience nature from a completely different perspective. You’ll stop along the way for a secluded picnic lunch. Please note that this activity incurs an additional cost.

• Sleep-outs

  - Available as a seasonal experience from September to May for stays of 3 nights or more, spend an unforgettable night beneath the stars on the dunes of the Namib Desert. You’ll be accompanied by a dinner hamper and awaken to an early morning coffee. A dedicated guide will be nearby throughout the night to ensure your comfort and safety. Please note that this experience incurs an extra cost.

• Dining on the dunes

   - Wolwedans can arrange various atmospheric private dining experiences in different scenic spots, including the desert dunes and vegetable garden. Please be aware that this experience incurs an additional cost.

• Hot air balloon rides

  - Begin the day pre-dawn with an early morning coffee, followed by a 1 to 1.5-hour drive to the balloon launch site. Soar above the exquisite desertscape before descending to a romantic champagne breakfast. Please be aware that this activity incurs an additional cost and requires advance booking, with reservations required at least one day prior.

• Heart & Home village tour

  - Meet the Wolwedans team behind the scenes, learn about community-driven initiatives, and gain insight into the Wolwedans Foundation’s AridEden mission, which works towards empowering the team and fostering environmental and sustainability awareness. Those traveling with children will also love the family treasure hunt.

• E-biking

   - E-bikes offer an exhilarating way to traverse terrain that’s usually accessed only by 4×4 vehicles. Accompanied by experienced guides, this high-energy experience can be tailored to suit all levels, and experienced riders can spend a whole day out with a picnic lunch. Please note that this experience incurs an additional cost.

**This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course